Kerala, India's enchanting southwestern state, is a captivating blend of emerald backwaters, mist-framed mountains, and golden coastlines. Known as ‘God's Own Country’, this fascinating region has long been famed for its natural beauty, mouthwatering cuisine and rich cultural traditions. From the iconic Kathakali dance performances to traditional houseboat cruises along the verdant backwaters, Kerala promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn to luxurious beach resorts overlooking the Arabian Sea, heritage hotels in picturesque Fort Kochi, or wellness escapes in the hills of Thekkady, our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in Kerala has something for everyone.

Many visitors being their explorations in coastal Fort Kochi, which brims with boutiques, galleries, eateries and small hotels. Venture to nearby Kottayam and Vembanad Lake for glimpses of village life along the waterways which thread their way between lush palm-studded banks. This is a great region for unwinding, enjoying Ayurvedic treatments, honing your culinary skills and spotting birdlife. Culture aficionados and creatives will adore Thrissur, whilst keen surfers can head south to Varkala, and wellness enthusiasts to Kovalam.

Some of our Kerala Collections:

• Best Resorts in Kerala
• The Best Places to Stay in the Kerala Backwaters
• Best Hotels on Vembanad Lake
• Luxury Resorts in Kerala
• Top Beach Hotels in Kerala
• Boutique Boltholes for Couples in Kerala
• Top Ayurvedic Escapes in Kerala
• Best Family Hotels in Kerala

The tea-clad hills of Munnar are marvellous for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers. Thekkady will fascinate those keen to spot endemic wildlife on safaris and treks, and the pristine natural beauty of the Sholayar Forest Ranges, Athirappilly Waterfalls and myriad other wild places reward those eager to step beyond the beaten track. Families, couples, groups of friends and solo travellers alike can expect a warm welcome at the best places to stay in Kerala — this really is a magical part of India.

The Best places to stay in Kerala

For Heritage Charm

• Malabar House, has a reputation in Fort Kochi for all the right reasons. Built in 1755, the property was once a Dutch residence; it now houses 17 eclectic guest rooms set around a charming candlelit courtyard. The restaurant is famed for its mouth-watering cuisine, and the spa for its soothing treatments. A real gem.
• Amritha Heritage is a century-old private residence with whitewashed walls and a traditional terracotta-tiled roof in Thiruvananthapuram. Now transformed into a five-bedroom heritage hotel, this intimate spot promises authentic Keralan cuisine, tranquil guest rooms with polished wooden furnishings, and shaded terraces facing mature gardens. Lovely. 
• Brunton Boatyard, overlooking Fort Kochi's harbour, is both elegant and luxurious. A striking 26-room property with beautifully restored interiors, this is a fabulous choice for heritage buffs and romantics seeking an exceptional Fort Kochi experience. Two fantastic restaurants and a characterful bar complete the picture.
• Seclude Karthika Nivas is a striking 150-year-old house with five beautifully restored guest bedrooms set around a shaded courtyard. Beamed ceilings, big beds and soft lighting add to the appeal, and there's a refreshing swimming pool set amidst lovely gardens. Expect excellent cuisine and a relaxed, intimate feel. Book the whole place for a larger group trip.
• Lake Palace was a former summer residence of the King of Travancore. Set on the banks of Periyar Lake, it offers a wonderfully tranquil experience for nature lovers eager to spot lumbering elephants or birds gliding across the water. Kick back in traditional guest rooms with polished four-poster beds, savour fresh cuisine and enjoy boat trips on the glittering lake. A charming heritage choice.

For City Style

• Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram is a stylish city choice, with swish rooms and suites, a rooftop pool and multiple eateries, near the city centre. Business travellers will appreciate meeting rooms, in-room desks and the proximity to the city's business district. 
• Hyatt Regency Thrissur offers 76 light-filled rooms in the centre of the city. Decorated in pale blue & white tones, spaces have floor-to-ceiling windows and swish bathrooms. Shared spaces include two restaurants, a bakery, event rooms, a spa and a rooftop swimming pool. Perfect for business or leisure.

For Families or Groups

• Villa Jacaranda offers four simple but comfortable bedrooms just a stone's throw away from the beach in Varkala. Relax on your private terrace and enjoy the views, take refreshing dips in the pool and savour authentic Keralan cuisine at this intimate, family-friendly spot.
• Coconut Lagoon, a CGH Earth property famed for its warm hospitality, offers private cottages with plunge pools near Kottayam. The games room is ideal for the whole family, whilst babysitting services mean that grown-ups can enjoying rejuvenating spa treatments after busy days together.
• Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa Kerala has 28 Portuguese style, hung-tiled cottages dotted around verdant grounds. Facing Vembanad Lake, the resort's cottages are great for families, who will also appreciate the kids club, bicycles, and boat trips. The expansive 18-acre grounds make this a fun choice for outdoorsy families. 
• Soul & Surf Varkala is famed for its community feel. Rise early for surf sessions with great instructors, gather for big breakfasts on the terrace, and relax with restorative yoga classes. The vibe is laid-back and fun, and fellow guests are likely to become friends over the course of your stay. The food is also excellent — fresh, zingy and seasonal, with a Kerala-inspired twist. 

For an Ayurvedic Retreat

• Bethsaida Hermitage promises personalised wellness packages, including Ayurvedic treatments, yoga classes and delectable seasonal cuisine. There's a seven-night minimum stay, and the setting is charming and traditional. Think polished wooden furnishings and draped four-poster beds in terracotta tile-roofed buildings. 
• Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort offers visitors an immersive Ayurvedic experience within sight of Chowara Beach. Set across 15 acres of lush grounds, the accommodation comprises pretty wooden cottages with antique pieces and a sense of timeless charm. The team have a wealth of Ayurvedic knowledge to share, and there's a good reason that guests return again and again. 
• Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club has just six romantic cottages with wood-panelled walls, forest views and big cosy beds. There's a refreshing infinity pool, pan-Asian fare at Café Samsara and rejuvenating treatments at the Ayurvedic spa. 
• Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa Kovalam, set on a hillside, takes its inspiration from traditional Kettivallam houseboats. Opulent interiors are wonderful for honeymooners or fans of luxury; the best suites boast private terraces with sea views and plunge pools. Multiple eateries, a serene Ayurvedic spa and refreshing swimming pools make this a very special spot. 

For an Eco Escape

• Spice Village, near Thekkady, will delight nature lovers with its 12 acres of leafy gardens, resident naturalists and abundance of birdlife. Elephant grass-thatched cottages have airy terraces, tiled floors and wooden furnishings. Garden-grown ingredients feature in delicious dishes and at cooking classes, plus there's a pool for refreshing dips. 
• Cardamom County by Xandari has a strong eco-focus. Set near the Periyar Nature Reserve, the resort's 44 green-painted suites and cottages have whitewashed interiors with exposed beams and garden views. Families are welcome. There's farm-to-table cuisine, Ayurvedic treatments and a swimming pool, but the real focus is on wildlife excursions and hikes. 
• Philipkutty's Farm is a home, guesthouse and working farm with six villas set amidst flowering frangipani and swaying palms. Perched on Puthankayal Island in the backwaters, this spot welcomes guests of all ages, who can bask in tranquil seclusion, tour the farm with friendly hosts, and tuck into exceptional cuisine. A gem. 

For Great Value

• Clayfingers Art Cottages, near Thrissur, will delight creative travellers in search of tranquility. Set around a 1950s-built brick and tile factory, this little hotel comprises collection of cottages with block printed textiles, handmade curios and delicious Keralan fare. Run by an artist couple, Clayfingers offers workshops and courses for guests of all ages at the onsite atelier. Simple and enormously charming.
• Harvest Fresh Farms is a simple Thekkady farm stay with just three individually appointed guest rooms. Pick this place for the great rates, relaxed feel and the chance to tour the working farm — a fascinating example of Thekkady's abundance of fresh seasonal fare and spices.
• Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden Resort & Spa offers 18 cosy rooms and cottages with garden views, in the Thekkady area. Unwind on hammocks, stroll through the hotel's spice gardens, and take great cookery classes. Very reasonably priced, with a rustic sense of style.  

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Trivandrum International Airport, Cochin International Airport — the first solar-powered airport in the world — or to Calicut International Airport, and travel to your destination by bus, car or train from there. 
• If you're confident driving in Asia, Kerala is a beautiful destination for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Temperatures hover around 28-33°C for much of the year, with the heat reaching its peak in April and the heaviest rainfall expected between May and early September. Travel between mid-September and February for warm days and cooler nights. 

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in India.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.