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Imagine Asia  >  Destinations  >  Kerala and the South
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Kerala and the South

The southern states of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are home to exquisite temple towns, tranquil backwaters, sandy beaches, colourful cities, tea plantations, green rolling hills and a rich cultural heritage. Scenically diverse and brimming with colonial and historic treasures, Kerala and the South is a delight the explore, where the pace of life is slowed to a leisurely stroll.

When to go

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Located in India’s Deep South, coastal Kerala is famous for its vast network of backwaters, linking lakes and lagoons just shy of the coastline. There is much to explore, with over 900km of waterways combining to form this exceptional system. A slow-paced cruise in a traditional houseboat is an indulgent immersion into life in Kerala, and a must for anyone visiting the region.

Kerala’s vast coastline is speckled with gorgeous warm water bays. Marari is a lovely beach retreat and our recommendation if you’re looking for solitude and tranquillity. Kovalam is slightly more frequented, but have some lovely beaches, great water-sport facilities and the option of early morning yoga. Escape to cooler climes at Munnar hill station and trek Anamudi, the highest peak in Southern India, or explore the picturesque landscaped charm of Ooty.

Despite its relaxed feel, there is much to do and see in this region that would keep even the most restless traveller occupied. A city many consider to be the jewel of Kerala, Cochin has a unique colonial history, with a culture shaped by Portuguese, Dutch, Chinese, Arab and Japanese influences. Continue on this south India cultural exploration to the Tamil Nadu temple town of Madurai, home to the internationally acclaimed Meenkashi temple.

Karnataka’s cities of Mysore and Bangalore are great for exploring, the former boasting an array of historic temples and colourful markets, and the latter a cosmopolitan city bursting with restaurants and shops.

Away from India’s mainland, lie the Andaman Islands, an archipelago consisting of 300 idyllic and pristine islands. With white sandy beaches, colourful corals and bountiful sea life, the islands offer the perfect beach retreat in the azure waters of the Bay of Bengal.

We recently sent our travel specialist Cherylle out to southern India, to experience the laid-back atmosphere of this part of the country. Here, she tells us all about her trip…

Life on the backwaters

There is nothing more tranquil than an exploration of Kerala’s Backwaters, made up of winding canals, rivers and huge lakes. The best way to travel this region and to be truly immersed in its way of life is by spending time on a kettuvallam (houseboat). From the moment you get on board you are transported to India’s very own Venice, where the atmosphere is serene and the landscape enchanting.

Destinations

Andaman Islands

Backwaters

Bangalore

Chennai

Chettinad

Chikmagalur

Cochin

Coimbatore

Coorg

Dindigul

Hampi

Kanam Estate

Kothamangalam

Kovalam

Madurai

Mahabalipuram

Marari

Munnar

Mysore

Nagarhole National Park

Neeleshwar

Ooty

Pondicherry

Sultan's Battery and Wayanad

Tanjore and Trichy

Tellicherry

Thekkady and Periyar National Park

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Cochin, Kerala and the South, India

Malabar House, situated in one of the many Dutch colonial buildings in Cochin, is an award-winning luxury boutique hotel with just 17 rooms that makes a stylish and peaceful honeymoon sanctuary in the heart of the city’s hustle and bustle.

Malabar House

Munnar

Situated near Munnar in Kerala’s Western Ghats, amongst some of South India’s most stunning scenery, the Windermere Estate is a plantation retreat that offers glorious views, superb hospitality and all the comforts of (a very British) home.

Windermere Estate

Kovalam, Kerala, India

Enviably positioned between Kerala’s tranquil backwaters and Kovalam’s surf, Vivanta by Taj is a unique hotel that offers both families and couples high-end luxury facilities and contemporary style for a wonderfully relaxing beach stay.

Vivanta By Taj Kovalam

Backwaters, Kerala and the South, India

Situated on an island in the sleepy backwaters, Philip Kutty’s Farm is a wonderful and authentic homestay, oozing charm and providing guests with a magical culinary experience and a personal and highly rewarding insight into rural Keralan life.

Philip Kutty's Farm

Kovalam, Kerala, India

With a dramatic cliff-top setting overlooking the Arabian Sea by one of Kerala’s most loved beaches, the Raviz Kovalam offers opulent amenities, impeccable service and a superb location for enjoying a relaxing and luxurious beach stay.

The Raviz Kovalam Beach

Backwaters, Kerala and the South, India

Spending a night on a private houseboat is a tranquil way to explore the magical backwaters of Kerala and is a must on any Keralan adventure with your very own crew to cook traditional Keralan meals and to ensure you have the most enjoyable stay on board.

Houseboat Lakes and Lagoons

Mararikkulam, Kerala, India

Built in the style of a local fishing village on the golden palm-fringed beaches and surf of the famed Spice Coast, Marari Beach is a superb place to relax at the end of a visit to Kerala, with everything on hand to do as little or as much as you choose.

Marari Beach Resort

Cochin, Kerala and the South, India

An oasis of quiet calm and discreet service located just steps away from Fort Cochin’s famous cantilever fishing nets, The Old Harbour is a small luxury colonial-style hotel that oozes charm and makes a great option for families and couples alike.

Old Harbour Hotel

Thekkady and Periyar National Park, India

Nestled in the foothills of Kerala's Western Ghats, Spice Village is a delightful retreat with beautiful cottages and abundant spice gardens. Located near Thekkady, it is ideal for both relaxing and embarking on wildlife safaris in Periyar National Park.

Spice Village

Chennai, Kerala and the South

Vivanta by Taj Connemara is a charming beach resort between Chennai and Mahabalipuram on Tamil Nadu’s Bay of Bengal. Set in the ramparts of an old Dutch fort, Vivanta is a comfortable and atmospheric base for exploring Chennai and the famous Shore Temple.

Vivanta by Taj - Connemara, Chennai

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Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady and Periyar National Park, Backwaters, Marari Beach

Staying in luxurious boutique hotels whilst exploring glistening waterways, lush hill stations and sandy shores, this two week trip is perfect for honeymooners or couples wishing to discover Kerala’s romantic side.

14 nights from $3397 per person Honeymoon, Culture & history, Imagine Favourites

Romantic Kerala

Cochin, Munnar, Thodupuzha, Backwaters

A diverse ten night itinerary taking you through the highlights of Kerala whilst staying in some of our favourite homestays. Enjoy delicious home cooking and gain an insight into local culture and traditions many never experience.

10 nights from $2893 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Off the beaten track

At Home in Kerala

Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Madurai

Discover Tamil Nadu on this culturally enriching ten night itinerary, taking you to soaring ancient temples, architecturally stunning 18th century mansions, and charming sea-side towns with rich colonial histories.

10 nights from $3145 per person Culture & history, Beach, Highlights

Essential Tamil Nadu

Cochin, Backwaters, Marari Beach

Combining Kerala’s rich colonial history with its enchanting backwaters and the sandy shores of Marari Beach, this eight night itinerary is perfect for those wishing to experience this beautiful southern Indian state, but are short on time.

8 nights from $2516 per person Beach, Highlights, Imagine Favourites

Express Kerala

Cochin, Munnar, Madurai, Thekkady and Periyar National Park, Backwaters, Marari

From cosmopolitan cities and temple towns to the enchanting backwaters and mountainous hill stations, this twelve night itinerary introduces you to some of the best sights and experiences Kerala has to offer.

12 nights from $3082 per person Highlights, Culture & history, Beach

Highlights of Kerala

Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Shahpura, Udaipur, Cochin, Munnar, Madurai, Thekkady and Periyar National Park, Backwaters, Marari

Discover beguiling India and all it has to offer on this 19 night itinerary, taking you from the glittering palaces and mighty forts of the north to the rolling hills, vibrant temples, and enchanting backwaters of the south.

19 nights from $4969 per person Highlights, Culture & history, Luxury

Highlights of North and South

Mysore, Nagarhole National Park, Sultan's Battery, Tellicherry, Cochin, Munnar, Backwaters

A 16 night trip taking in the highlights of India’s southern states. From the lush greenery of Kerala to the historic palaces of Karnataka, this is perfect for first time visitors to the south looking for a relaxing and culturally rewarding experience.

16 nights from $4843 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Wildlife

Highlights of South India

Cochin, Munnar, Backwaters, Maldives

Introducing some of the most beautiful and serene places south India has to offer, followed by a relaxing break on the white sandy beaches of the Maldives, this 12 night itinerary is perfect for those seeking some peace and relaxation.

12 nights from $3774 per person Beach, Honeymoon, Spectacular scenery

Kerala and The Maldives

Mysore, Coorg, Neeleshwar, Tellicherry, Sultan's Battery, Cochin

A diverse two week itinerary introducing the highlights of south India’s lesser visited northern Kerala and Karnataka regions, including historic palaces, picturesque hill towns and an entrancing backwater cruise.

13 nights from $4151 per person Culture & history, Beach, Family

Northern Kerala and Karnataka

Cochin, Tellicherry, Sultan's Battery and Wayanad, Coorg, Mysore, Hyderabad

A wonderfully varied two week itinerary combining Kerala’s iconic backwaters and forested mountains with Karnataka’s coffee plantations and historic palaces before finishing in one of India’s most extravagant palace hotels.

14 nights from $4969 per person Culture & history, Luxury, Walking & Trekking

Opulent Hyderabad and the South

Cochin, Munnar, Dindigul, Maudrai, Tanjore, Pondicherry, Chennai, Andaman Islands

A truly tempting two and a half week itinerary that combines the beauty and culture of south India with the pristine sandy beaches of the Andaman Islands.

17 nights from $4969 per person Beach, Highlights, Honeymoon

South India and the Andamans

Chennai, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Madurai, Dinidgul, Thekkady, Backwaters, Cochin

Combining Tamil Nadu’s ancient temples with the rolling hills and stunning backwaters of Kerala, this 15 night itinerary is the perfect introduction to two of south India’s most entrancing states.

15 nights from $4340 per person Culture & history, Family, Beach

Tamil Nadu and Kerala

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Munnar, India

Explore Tea region of Munnar, the tea museum and the nearby Eravikulam National Park.

Eravikulam National Park and Tea Museum

Madurai, India

Visit this stunningly decorated temple for the evening 'going to bed' ceremony.

Madurai evening temple ceremony

Madurai, India

A cycle rickshaw tour through the local markets surround the Meenakshi temple in Madurai with a visit to a metal pot workshop.

Cycle rickshaw tour through local markets

Madurai, India

A memorable experience of dining with a local Hindu family. You will help them shop for and prepare the meal whilst being shown excellent Indian hospitality.

Dinner with a local Hindu family in their home

Cochin, India

Enjoy a classical Indian dance drama which originated in Kerala in the 17th Century. Famous for its elaborate costumes and even more over-the-top characters, it offers a wonderful nights' entertainment along with music and percussion.

Watch a Kathakali Performance

Backwaters, India

Alleppey is the heart of Kerala’s backwaters. Touring the town by foot can open your eyes to its history as well as witnessing beautiful countryside scenery and experiencing modern market life.

Alleppey by foot

Chennai, India

A tour to the fascinating sites of Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram to explore the rock-cut temples that stand on the beach, dating back to the 7th century AD.

Temple tour of Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram

Thekkady, India

Enjoy a jungle walk in Periyar National park with your tribal guide, spotting monkeys, deer and even elephants.

Periyar National Park Jungle Walk

Cochin

A tour of the markets of Ernakulam, the newer and more vibrant of part of Cochin. Explore Broadway, and shop amongst its bustling alleyways and old world charm.

Markets of Cochin

Cochin, India

Nimmy Paul has been teaching people how to cook Keralan cuisine for over 20 years and is renowned for hospitality. This experience allows you to understand Keralan cuisine with her in her home.

Cooking Demonstration with Nimmy Paul

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Inspiration

Introducing India

Kerala and the South Itineraries

Life on the backwaters

Express Kerala

Northern Kerala and Karnataka

Tamil Nadu and Kerala

Homestays of Kerala

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Our Price Promise

We want to be really clear about this. We offer amazing value. Tailor-made does not have to mean expensive, it simply means attention to every detail of your trip arranged by a true expert.

Here at Imagine Asia, we are so confident that we offer the best value on the market that we have a price promise. If you find the exact same holiday cheaper with another UK tour operator, then we promise to beat their price by £50.

Financial Protection

Rest assured that all our holidays are 100% financially protected. Our ATOL bond protects holidays booked in the UK with flights. Our ABTOT bond protects holidays which are booked without flights or those booked outside the UK, either with or without flights.

Protection means that in the unlikely event that we become insolvent; your holiday will be refunded or you will be repatriated if already travelling or have flights with us.

Financial Protection

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