Palm-fringed backwaters, spice-scented hills and a coastline shaped by centuries of trade have made Kerala one of India's most distinctive and rewarding destinations.
Kerala reveals a gentler and more relaxed side of India, a region where tranquil backwaters, tropical landscapes and a rich cultural heritage combine to create one of the country's most captivating journeys. Stretching between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, it offers an extraordinary diversity of experiences within a relatively compact area.
The region's famous backwaters remain one of its defining attractions, a network of lagoons, lakes and waterways where traditional villages, coconut groves and everyday life unfold at an unhurried pace. Beyond the water, tea plantations, spice estates and mist-covered hills rise into the Western Ghats, revealing landscapes that contrast beautifully with the coast.
Kerala's long history as a centre of maritime trade has shaped a culture rich in influences, reflected in its architecture, cuisine and traditions. Historic towns, beautiful beaches and vibrant local communities add further depth, whilst luxury resorts, heritage hotels and elegant houseboats provide memorable ways to experience one of India's most rewarding destinations.
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
Forte Kochi, a five-star heritage hotel on Princess Street in Fort Kochi, Kerala, rises from a grand 1860s Dutch-built estate, blending colonial elegance with modern luxury. The 27 heritage rooms, thoughtfully restored, evoke Kerala's colonial era with polished wooden floors, antique furnishings, and lofty ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers. Each features plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with bespoke toiletries, while select rooms offer balconies overlooking the vibrant streetscape or serene courtyard. Dining at Forte Kochi weaves a tapestry of flavours reflecting the region's rich history. The signature restaurant serves authentic Kerala dishes alongside pan-Indian, British, and pan-European fare, with a standout selection of fresh seafood, enjoyed in an elegant dining hall or under the stars in the courtyard. The bar crafts cocktails infused with local spices, perfect for savouring in the warm evening breeze. An outdoor swimming pool, nestled amid tropical greenery, invites leisurely swims, while attentive staff arrange guided heritage walks through Fort Kochi's colonial landmarks and bustling markets, immersing guests in the area's storied charm. Situated 200 meters from Santa Cruz Basilica, 3 kilometers from Jew Street and Dutch Palace, and 6 kilometers from St. Francis Church, Forte Kochi is 44 kilometers from Kochi International Airport, offering seamless access to Kerala's cultural treasures.
From £90 per night
The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel, a distinguished five-star retreat nestled along the tranquil shores of Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam, Kerala, seamlessly blends barefoot luxury with the rich cultural heritage of the region, reflecting the timeless Nalukettu architectural style. Each of the elegantly appointed rooms, suites, and villas draws inspiration from Kerala's storied traditions, featuring wooden flooring, intricate murals, and air-conditioned comfort. Flat-screen TVs with cable, tea/coffee facilities, and en suite bathrooms with indulgent bathtubs create a serene escape, while stunning lake views from private balconies or terraces elevate the experience. The resort's design pays homage to local aesthetics, offering a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern sophistication. Dining at The Leela Ashtamudi is a celebration of regional and global flavours, with Keraleeyam offering all-day dining that showcases authentic Malabar cuisine alongside international dishes in a warm, inviting ambiance. Raanthal, set amidst the shimmering waters of the lake, serves the finest seafood and local delicacies, creating an unforgettable waterside experience. Zirkon Bar crafts refreshing cocktails and premium beverages, perfect for unwinding under the stars. The tranquil spa invites guests to embrace holistic wellness through authentic Ayurvedic treatments, complemented by a soothing hot tub. An outdoor swimming pool, modern fitness centre, and versatile event spaces for weddings or business gatherings are curated with meticulous attention, ensuring every moment resonates with Kerala's cultural essence. Positioned just 3 kilometers from Kollam Beach and 4 kilometers from Kollam Town and Railway Station, The Leela Ashtamudi is a serene 90-minute drive from Trivandrum International Airport, offering effortless access to the region's natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
From £70 per night
Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, a five-star resort on Bolgatty Island in Kochi, Kerala, blends striking Indo-Portuguese design with luxurious comfort, showcasing breathtaking views of Vembanad Lake's backwaters. The 264 rooms and suites, adorned with elegant furnishings, feature air-conditioned interiors, workstations, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with hot tubs. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame vistas of the lake, gardens, city, or pool, creating a seamless blend of modern luxury and natural beauty. Dining at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty is a culinary delight. Malabar Cafe, an all-day venue, celebrates Kerala's rich flavours with expertly crafted coastal dishes, while Colony Clubhouse & Grill, perched on the rooftop, serves classic Old World grilled fare alongside fine wines. The resort's bars offer artisanal cocktails with lakefront views, perfect for evening relaxation. Two swimming pools, including one with serene water vistas, invite leisurely dips, while the spa provides rejuvenating treatments blending local traditions with global wellness. A tennis court and fitness centre cater to active guests, and the unique Nattika, a two-bedroom luxury houseboat, doubles as a floating conference venue. Curated experiences, from art gallery visits to traditional music performances, immerse guests in Kochi's vibrant culture. Located 5 kilometers from Durbar Hall Art Gallery, 6.1 kilometers from Greenix Village, and 32 kilometers from Kochi International Airport, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty offers easy access to Kerala's cultural and natural treasures.
From £190 per night
Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, a five-star hotel on Willingdon Island, Cochin, Kerala, blends colonial Victorian charm with modern elegance, offering stunning views of Cochin Harbour. The 95 rooms and suites, split between the heritage wing built in 1935 and the newly renovated tower wing, feature plush bedding, 32-inch flat-screen TVs, DVD players, tea/coffee makers, and bathrooms with bathrobes and premium toiletries. Adorned with wood-beamed ceilings and fine wood fittings, each space offers garden or harbour views, creating a refined blend of classic and contemporary luxury. Dining at Taj Malabar is a culinary delight. The Pepper, an all-day dining venue, serves hearty Italian dishes and healthy meals with garden views, while The Rice Boat crafts fresh seafood specialties inspired by Kerala's coastal heritage. Dolphin's Point offers outdoor barbecues paired with refreshing beverages, and the bar pours artisanal cocktails. The landscaped pool invites leisurely swims, while Jiva Spa rejuvenates with Indian massages and body scrubs. A 24-hour fitness centre and beauty salon energize guests, and curated experiences, from luxury yacht sailing with lunch cruises to cultural tours, immerse visitors in Cochin's vibrant legacy. Located 1 kilometer from Cochin's city centre, 15 kilometers from Ernakulam Town, and 45 kilometers from Cochin International Airport, Taj Malabar Resort & Spa offers seamless access to Kerala's cultural and commercial hubs.
From £150 per night
The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel, a distinguished five-star resort perched on a cliffside in Kovalam, Kerala, enchants with its 184 rooms, suites, and four exclusive Kovalam Palace suites, blending traditional Kerala grandeur with modern sophistication, all framed by breathtaking Arabian Sea vistas. Each of the 184 rooms and suites radiates warm, wooden décor, featuring HD LCD televisions, tea/coffee facilities, and luxurious bathrooms with walk-in showers. The Royal Club rooms elevate the experience with personalized butler service, gourmet corners stocked with fine spirits and snacks, and private balconies showcasing sweeping sea views. The four Kovalam Palace suites offer an intimate, regal retreat, harmonizing modern comforts with Kerala's storied aesthetics, ensuring every stay feels tailored to discerning tastes. Dining at The Leela Kovalam is a sensory delight, with The Tides Restaurant, set along the beach, offering Asian specialties and freshly grilled seafood in a vibrant, open-air setting. The Terrace, open round-the-clock, serves a diverse buffet with indoor, outdoor, and poolside seating, catering to every craving. The Sky Bar, perched on the rooftop, crafts exquisite cocktails perfect for savouring Kovalam's iconic sunsets. Wellness unfolds at the serene spa, where rejuvenating treatments draw from ancient traditions, while three swimming pools, including two infinity pools, invite leisurely dips with sea views. The fitness centre, tennis courts, and game room offer active pursuits, complemented by curated experiences like yoga sessions, cooking classes, and beach volleyball. Elegant event spaces cater to weddings and gatherings, infused with the resort's signature hospitality. Just steps from a private beach and 14 kilometers from Trivandrum City and the revered Padmanabhaswamy Temple, The Leela Kovalam is a 30-minute drive from Trivandrum International Airport, offering seamless access to Kerala's coastal and cultural treasures.
From £125 per night
The Brunton Boatyard Hotel, a five-star CGH Earth property in Fort Cochin, Kerala, rises from a restored 19th-century Victorian shipyard, offering a timeless immersion in the historic charm of Cochin's storied harbour. The 26 rooms, 22 of which gaze out over the sea, blend colonial elegance with modern comfort, featuring polished wooden floors, four-poster beds, and spacious en-suite bathrooms with hot-water showers and bespoke toiletries. Many bathrooms share the same captivating sea views, while private balconies invite moments of quiet reflection. Each room is adorned with antiques that echo the region's maritime past, creating an intimate retreat steeped in history. Dining at Brunton Boatyard is a journey through Cochin's multicultural heritage. The History restaurant weaves flavours from the Malabar Coast's Portuguese, Dutch, and Indian influences, serving dishes like fragrant fish moilee and spiced lamb roasts. The Terrace, set by the water's edge, specializes in grilled seafood fresh from the Arabian Sea, while The Armoury Bar crafts cocktails infused with local spices. On the Quadrangle, an open-air café, offers English tea and delicate pastries under shady trees. The outdoor pool, fringed by tropical gardens, provides a refreshing escape, and the Ayurvedic spa delivers rejuvenating massages rooted in ancient Kerala traditions. A steam room soothes, and guided walking tours through Fort Cochin's historic lanes reveal the area's colonial legacies, from ancient churches to bustling spice markets. Just a 1-minute walk from the Fort Kochi-Vypeen Ferry Terminal, 15 kilometers from Ernakulam Railway Station, and 42 kilometers from Cochin International Airport, The Brunton Boatyard Hotel places guests at the heart of Kerala's coastal heritage.
From £100 per night