Famously striking, The Western Ghats, also called the Sahyadri, stretch an impressive 1,600km along India's coastline. A biodiversity hotspot known for its abundance of birdlife, along with chattering langurs and macaques, lumbering elephants and the ever-elusive tigers and leopards, the region was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. Much of Kerala's tea is grown in the Western Ghats, close to Thekkady and Munnar, where coffee and spice plantations also abound. 

Nature enthusiasts will undoubtedly be in their element. Hiking and cycling trails criss-cross verdant hills and forests, guided walks with resident naturalists yield fantastic sightings, and opportunities for kayaking and boat trips on glittering lakes will delight travellers of all ages. Many of the best places to stay in the Western Ghats also boast serene Ayurvedic spas, showcasing India's rich culture of healing using natural ingredients and age-old techniques. Our Gurus have selected some of their favourite hotels in the region, perfect for romantic escapes, fun-filled family holidays or lively vacations with friends. 

For Wildlife Enthusiasts

• Cardamom County by Xandari, close to the acclaimed Periyar Nature Reserve, will delight keen adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Highlights include an onsite spa, farm-to-table eatery and swimming pool. Guided nature hikes, bamboo rafting and Jeep safaris are all great fun, and the largest of the 44 green-painted suites and cottages are well-suited to families. 
• Rainforest Boutique Resort is another wildlife lovers' favourite. The 10 cottages and treehouse promise fantastic forest and waterfall views, and the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is within easy reach. Gather at the open-sided restaurants for delicious cuisine on quiet starlit evenings. 
• Windermere Estate has a more classic feel, with charming cottages featuring wooden beams and cosy fireplaces. Adventurers will love exploring the cardamom estate on foot, and spotting wildlife at the Eravikulam National Park or Thattekad Bird Sanctuary before splashing around in the pool. Great for families or groups as well as couples. 

For a Thatch-Roofed Eco Escape

• Spice Village boasts Elephant grass-thatched cottages with airy terraces, tiled floors and wooden furnishings, dotted around 12 acres of leafy gardens. Garden-grown ingredients feature in delicious dishes and at cooking classes, there's a pool for refreshing dips, and resident naturalists will happily lead birding walks through the grounds.
• Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden Resort & Spa promises 18 cosy rooms and cottages facing mature gardens. Very reasonably priced and boasting a wonderfully rustic sense of style, this is one of the most restful eco escapes in the Western Ghats. Kick back in your hammock, amble around the spice gardens, and hone your skills at Keralan cooking classes. 

For a Waterfront Retreat

• Mountain Shadows is a luxurious 51-villa escape facing glittering lake waters. Fit for romantics as well as families, this indulgent resort has a swimming pool and spa, plus a games room with table tennis, billiards, chess, and carrom, as well as activities ranging from fishing trips to safaris on land and water. A real treat.
• The Lake Palace was once the summer residence of the King of Travancore. Nestled on the banks of Periyar Lake, the original house and additional waterfront guest rooms feature four-poster beds and traditional furnishings. Perfect for nature lovers eager to spot lumbering elephants or birds gliding across the water from the gardens or on boat trips. A charming heritage choice with great regional cuisine.
• Eden Woods Resorts & Spa, situated on a riverbank near Munnar, has contemporary guest rooms, suites and cottages, many with private balconies. There's a games room, infinity pool, and multi-cuisine restaurant, as well as bikes to borrow and frequent cultural shows. Deservedly popular. 

For Families 

• Jeevess Retreat is famed for its fantastic Ayurvedic spa. Families, however, will also appreciate the spacious stilted cottages, which boast marvellous views over the surrounding tea and coffee-clad hills. Hiking and cycling trails abound, making this a top choice for those travelling with outdoorsy teens. 
• The Grand Cliff Resort is tucked amidst Munnar's picturesque tea plantations. Families will appreciate the generous luxury suites, and the plethora of opportunities to hike, horse ride and cycle. There's a huge swimming pool, spa, restaurant and regular yoga classes, too. Ideal for fans of contemporary style.
• The Mountain Courtyard has 50 guest rooms with white linens, pale green details, and dark wooden furniture. Some have extra space for families with little ones. A forest-framed pool, two restaurants and a small spa sit within the hotel's four and a half acres of verdant gardens. Modern and good fun. 
• Elysian Vale offers 16 modern guest rooms and cottages in the hills of Vagamon. The infinity pool is particularly impressive, and families will appreciate the games room, children's play area, fun cooking classes, yoga and guided hikes. 
• Monticle Glamp Resort is the very first glamping resort in Kerala. Larger pods are ideal for families who can hike, cycle or swim, plus enjoy themed dinner nights with fellow guests at the resort. Jeep safaris are great fun, and brilliant for spotting wildlife together. 

For Couples

• Pepper Trail sprawls across 200 acres of working spice and coffee plantations. Couples dreaming of seclusion will adore pretty cottages with plunge pools, free-standing tubs and furniture hewn by local craftsmen. Unwind with healing Ayurvedic massages, savour seasonal fare using garden-grown produce, and hide away in absolute bliss.
• Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club, situated close to Thekkady, comprises six romantic cottages with wood-panelled walls, big cosy beds and views towards the forest. There's pan-Asian fare at Café Samsara, rejuvenating treatments at the Ayurvedic spa and a lovely swimming pool. 
• Hills & Hues, which faces Periyar Lake from high on a Thekkady hillside, invites romantics to relax in light-filled rooms and suites. Interiors feature floral textiles and exposed wooden beams, and offer plenty of privacy for quiet couples. Make the most of the soothing spa, swimming pool, games room and cooking classes.

For Great Value

© Harvest Fresh Farms

• Harvest Fresh Farms has long been a Thekkady highlight. A simple farm stay with three individually appointed guest rooms, this spot offers great rates, the chance to tour the working farm, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Excellent inspiration for aspiring growers and B&B hosts. 
• Wild Avenue Resort & Spa is a modern, reasonably priced spot with airy suites decorated in dark polished wood. The games room, Ayurvedic spa, restaurant and pool add to the appeal. A great base for discovering the attractions of the Thekkady area. 
• The Wind offers simple, airy guest rooms with dazzling views of the hills and mountains. Set 23km from Munnar, this small, affordable spot has been welcoming guests for more than a decade. A friendly choice for those seeking tranquility. 

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Kerala.
• Alternatively, check out our list of the best boutique boltholes for couples in Kerala.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.