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.
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 Green Cove Resort & Spa, a five-star seaside haven in Kovalam, Kerala, blends Balinese-inspired elegance with the tranquil charm of a backwater and hill retreat, sprawling across 16 acres. The 59 rooms, including sea-view villas, pool villas, and tropical garden rooms, feature exquisite wooden furnishings, plush bedding, and bathrooms with stone sculpture garden views. Designed to harmonize with lush surroundings, each space offers modern comforts, with select villas boasting private plunge pools for ultimate relaxation. Dining at Taj Green Cove is a culinary journey. Bait, a seaside restaurant, serves coastal specialties with vegetarian platters and wood-fired marinades, set against the Arabian Sea and backwaters. Jasmine Bay, an all-day diner, offers poolside Asian and Continental dishes, while Curries crafts authentic Kerala and Indian specialties. Neera Bar pours signature cocktails and zesty snacks. The infinity pool, overlooking the lagoon and ocean, invites refreshing swims, and J Wellness Circle, led by a naturopathy doctor, rejuvenates with Ayurvedic therapies and private plunge pool suites. A fitness centre and jogging trails energize guests, while curated activities like country boat rides, scuba diving, and bird-watching immerse visitors in Kovalam's coastal allure. Located a 30-minute drive from Trivandrum International Airport, 40 minutes from Trivandrum's Kuthira Malika Palace and Padmanabha Swamy Temple, and with seasonal beach access from November to mid-March, Taj Green Cove offers seamless access to Kerala's cultural and natural treasures.
From £165 per night
Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa, a five-star heritage hotel in Kumarakom, Kerala, transforms a historic 1881 Baker family estate into a luxurious haven, nestled across 15 acres along Vembanad Lake. The 28 exclusive villas and cottages, surrounding a serene lagoon or pool, feature air-conditioned comfort, plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and en-suite bathrooms with bathtubs and premium toiletries. Select accommodations include lounge areas, blending colonial charm with modern elegance and views of lush gardens or the lake. Dining at Taj Kumarakom is a culinary celebration. Baker's Gourmet House serves Mediterranean and North Indian cuisine, while Open Coffee House, a 24-hour lakeside venue, offers fresh seafood and snacks inspired by local backwater flavours. Easy Bar pours premium wines and artisanal cocktails, perfect for savouring in the tranquil setting. The outdoor pool invites refreshing swims amidst tropical greenery, while the spa rejuvenates with bespoke treatments rooted in Kerala's wellness traditions. Curated experiences, from bicycle rides to guided tours of Kumarakom's natural and cultural sites, immerse guests in the region's serene beauty. Located a 30-minute drive from Kottayam Railway Station, an hour from Cochin city, and approximately 2 hours from Cochin International Airport, Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa offers seamless access to Kerala's backwater treasures.
From £190 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
Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond, a five-star haven in Kumarakom, Kerala, nestles along the serene banks of Lake Vembanad, enveloped by 8 acres of lush tropical gardens. The 27 luxurious villas, designed to harmonize with nature, feature polished wooden interiors, plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, and electric kettles. Private bathrooms with premium toiletries offer tranquility, while select villas boast terraces with sweeping lake views, blending elegance with the serenity of swaying coconut palms. Dining at Niraamaya Retreats is a culinary voyage. The two gourmet restaurants serve a vibrant blend of Kerala's coastal cuisine, Indian specialties, and global dishes, crafted with fresh, local ingredients, enjoyed in open-air settings or elegant dining spaces. The bar offers artisanal cocktails, perfect for savouring amidst tropical breezes. A large outdoor swimming pool invites leisurely swims with lake vistas, while the world-class spa, rooted in Kerala's Ayurvedic traditions, rejuvenates with bespoke treatments. A modern fitness centre energizes guests, and curated experiences, from cycling through lush landscapes to cultural performances on the deck, immerse visitors in Kumarakom's tranquil beauty. Located 2.2 kilometers from Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, 18 kilometers from Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, 15 kilometers from Kottayam Railway Station, and 75 kilometers from Cochin International Airport, Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond offers seamless access to Kerala's natural and cultural treasures.
From £445 per night
Coconut Lagoon, a five-star CGH Earth resort in Kerala's Kuttanad region, embraces the timeless allure of Vembanad Lake, its heritage villas crafted in the ancient 'tharavadu' style, preserving Kerala's architectural legacy. The 50 bungalows and villas, transplanted from historic Kerala homes, feature polished wooden floors, intricately carved ceilings, and private bathrooms with bespoke toiletries. Many offer serene lake views, private pools, or shaded hammocks, blending rustic charm with modern comfort. Minibars and tea/coffee makers add a touch of convenience, while verandas invite quiet moments amidst swaying palms. Dining at Coconut Lagoon is a celebration of Kerala's culinary heritage. Vembanad Grill serves the day's fresh catch, grilled to perfection with local spices, while Aymanam Restaurant offers open-air dining with sweeping lake views and regional dishes. Ettukettu, housed in a traditional wooden mansion, presents a multi-cuisine menu infused with global and Kerala flavours. Cooking demonstrations showcase fresh ingredients from the resort's organic farm. The Ayurveda Centre provides personalized treatments rooted in ancient wellness practices, complemented by a serene outdoor pool nestled among paddy fields. Guided nature walks reveal Vembanad's rich biodiversity, from rare birds to vibrant butterflies, while canoe rides and sunset cruises explore the backwaters' tranquil canals. Cultural performances of Kalaripayattu martial arts and Mohiniyattam dance bring Kerala's traditions to life, enriching every stay. Reached by a 10-minute boat ride from Kavanatinkara landing, Coconut Lagoon is 57.9 kilometers from Cochin International Airport, 50 kilometers from Fort Cochin, and 14.5 kilometers from Alleppey, immersing guests in Kerala's enchanting backwaters.
From £120 per night