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.

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.

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…


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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

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

Kovalem, Kerala, India

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

The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach

Backwaters, India

Only accessible by boat, Coconut Lagoon is a traditional heritage hotel set among rice paddies and coconut groves on Vembanad Lake near Cochin, providing a magical and immersive experience of life in the Kerala backwaters.

Coconut Lagoon

Madurai, Kerala and the South, India

The Heritage Madurai is a tranquil oasis set among verdant gardens in Tamil Nadu’s famous temple city. Oozing quintessential colonial finesse, the Heritage is the city’s top hotel and makes a very comfortable base for experiencing the wonders of Madurai.

Heritage Madurai

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

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Cochin, India

Explore Cochin with a photographer guide who will take you to the perfect spots to capture the soul of the city on your camera.

Photography tour of Cochin

Mysore, India

A cooking class with a local family in Mysore followed by a delicious dinner in their home that you have helped to prepare.

Cooking class and home dinner

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

Chennai, India

The Chennai dance tradition tour takes you to the Kalakshetra Foundation and gives you an insight into how Chennai is trying to keep the traditional values of dance, music and arts and crafts alive.

Chennai Dance Tradition Tour

Madurai, India

An early morning walking tour from 6am of Madurai town. Immerse yourself in local culture and interact with local people as they begin their days work.

Early morning walking tour of Madurai town

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