The southern Indian state of Kerala is aptly described as “God’s Own Country” for its, serene backwaters, pristine lakes, sparkling beaches, scenic mountains, tea and spice plantations, sumptuous cuisine, diverse flora and fauna, and vibrant, welcoming culture. No wonder that it is one of the most visited states not just in the region, but all of India.
Kerala is also the hub of the 5,000-year-old traditional Indian medicinal tradition Ayurveda, that combines a Holistic to healing, rejuvenation, and well-being.
Looking to travel to this magical part of the country? Here are the top 15 luxury resorts in Kerala to check into in 2024.
Contents
- 1. Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom
- 2. The Leela Kovalam, a Raviz Hotel
- 3. Brunton Boatyard, CGH Earth, Fort Kochi
- 4. Taj Wayanad Resort & Spa, Kerala
- 5. Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam
- 6. Neeleshwar Hermitage, Malabar (North Kerala)
- 7. Castillo De Woods, Vattavada, Munnar
- 8. The Malabar House, Malabar, (Luxury Resort in Cochin)
- 9. Forte Kochi Hotel, Cochin
- 10. Vivanta by Taj – Bekal, Kasaragod
- 11. Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort, Mararikulam, Alappuzha
- 12. Marari Beach Resort – A CGH Earth Experience, Marari
- 13. Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa, Kovalam
- 14. Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom
- 15. The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal, Kasaragod
1. Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom
The splendid 5 star Lake Resort is located in the most beautiful of all Keralan backwaters—Kumarakom. Housed in a 25-acre heritage estate, this resort is snuggled on the banks of Lake Vembanad (India’s longest lake) amidst a backdrop of swaying coconut trees, green forests, gentle breezes, and enchanting backwaters.
As a “Spa Resort” the Kumarakom Lake Resort delivers not just a 5-star luxury experience but also offers a wide range of traditional Ayurveda therapies and programs.
If you are looking for the quintessential Kumarakom backwaters experience, you need to look no further than this gorgeous resort that has an 8-acre lake Vembanad-facing waterfront and has been voted “India’s Leading Resort” four times by World Travel Awards.
You’ll get your lake-facing private village with a courtyard. Notable amenities at the resort include an outdoor swimming pool, a modern gym, a 24-hour front desk, two specialty restaurants (India and Continental), and the award-winning Ayurmana Ayurveda Spa.
Our Expert Ranking: 9.5/10
Amenities: Swimming pool, Ayurmana Ayurveda Spa, 200-year-old heritage property.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 350 per night per room.
2. The Leela Kovalam, a Raviz Hotel
The Leela Kovalam is located on the Samudra beaches (one of the finest in Kerala) and overlooks the Arabia Sea, a 25-minute drive from the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (35 min drive from the city’s main railway station). This modern establishment has been designed by the famous architect Charles Korrea.
The Leela Kovalam sprawls over 67 acres of landscaped greenery in the middle of a grove of coconut palms and overlooks the Arabian Sea, and offers 188 deluxe rooms and presidential suites, 22 sea-view villas, and 19 garden-view villas.
The Leela Kovalam offers the ultimate five-star resort hospitality experience on the shores of the Arabian Sea. A family-friendly establishment, the Leela Kovalam comes with a whole gamut of luxury amenities that include a fitness center, a yoga & meditation center, a rooftop sky bar, a tennis court, an archery center, and a badminton court. And, to top it all, you can have a private beach all to yourself.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5/10
Amenities: Sea-view villas, gym, swimming pool, tennis court, rooftop sky bar, spa, yoga & meditation center.
Cost: Villas start at $ 200 per night per unit.
3. Brunton Boatyard, CGH Earth, Fort Kochi
The town of Kochi was once the primary center of the spice trade and other maritime commerce in the region, where ships from as far as the Middle East and Southeast Asia arrived. The Brunton Boatyard is housed in a repurposed old British-Raj-era maritime building. Rehabilitated to its original form, this heritage establishment teleports you back to the heyday of the legendary spice trade era.
If you are into maritime history, spice wars, and history, and want a feel for the colonial vibe of Kochi, the Brunton Boatyard is a great option. The group that runs the Brunton Boatyard also owns the Eight Bastion, a boutique heritage hotel that is housed in the historical Fort Kochi. You can divide your time between both accommodations.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5/10
Amenities: Sea-side swimming pool, Ayurveda spa, gym, multi-cuisine restaurant.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 200 – 250 per night per room.
4. Taj Wayanad Resort & Spa, Kerala
Located in the north of the state Wayanad, is one of Kerala’s favorite hill stations, famous for its perfect weather, misty mountains, serene waterfalls, spice plantations, and rolling tea gardens. In recent years, spice and tea plantation tours have emerged as a major tourist attraction in the region.
The Taj Wayanad Resort & Spa is the best luxury accommodation in Wayanad. Set in 10 acres of plateaued reaches, it gives you 270° panoramic views of the valley, the surrounding hills, and the picturesque Banasura Lake that it overlooks.
If you are looking for an environmentally friendly lake-side resort with a view of the lush-green Wayanad Hills, the Taj Wayanad Resort is just the ideal place. It offers 43 waterfront cottages and 5 pool villas with a private plunge. Other amenities include a concierge service, a yoga center, an outdoor swimming pool, multiple specialty restaurants, a modern fitness center, and a spa that specializes in Ayurvedic treatment.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Pool Villas with plunge pools, views of Banasura Lake, gym, spa, salon, yoga center, steam, concierge, coffee shop, multiple restaurants.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 240 per night per room.
5. Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam
Kovalam is famous for its shoreline and boasts some of the finest beaches in Kerala. Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, however, is not your average sea-facing beach-side resort. It is snuggled on a cliff edge that faces the Arabian Sea and offers what is arguably one of the most unique visual tropical experiences in India. Your accommodation options include classic heritage cottages, garden-facing rooms, and sea-facing cottages.
Dotted with traditional Keralan heritage cottages that are perched on a cliff that overlooks the sea, the Niraamaya is a fine Relais & Chateaux property that also boasts a world-class spa. It is located in a secluded fishing village in Kovalam far away from any urban noise or commotion.
Our Rating 9/10
Amenities: Banyan Tree Bungalows, Heritage Classic Cottages, Niraamaya Ayurveda Spa, cliff-side location overlooking the Arabia Sea
Cost: Prices start at $ 325 per room per night.
6. Neeleshwar Hermitage, Malabar (North Kerala)
Neeleshwar is a small idyllic hamlet of many gods and goddesses in the Malabar region. The Neeleshwar Heritage is set in a secluded coconut grove in the northern part of Kerala— the Malabar Coast. Facing the Arabian Sea, this lovely resort is the perfect getaway from the urban chaos of southern India.
Its architectural design is inspired by the traditional Keralan “Vastu” philosophy with the whole site oriented to the east and facing the rising sun. The wood-and-thatch cottages are geometrically located in four directions.
Notable facilities at Neeleshwar Hermitage include an Ayurvedic Spa, two specialty restaurants (Keralan and Continental) and a a large outdoor infinity pool.
The Malabar Coast is an unspoiled coastal paradise with sublime beaches. The Neeleshwar Hermitage stays true to its name by providing the perfect time in this quiet and mesmerizing part of the country. If you are not interested in flashy gimmicks and bells & whistles and are instead looking for just the perfect kind of isolation with 5-star service looking after you, the Neeleshawar Hermitage is just the place for you.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Yoga session, Ayurveda Spa, swimming pool, houseboat tours.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 150 per night per room.
7. Castillo De Woods, Vattavada, Munnar
Munnar is, arguably the most visited hill station in Kerala, and is nicknamed “the Kashmir of South India” due to its beauty, lush green tea gardens, excellent weather, and beautiful waterfalls. Established in 2015, Castillo De Wood is a splendid retreat in the woods of Vattavada in Munnar. This all-wood property is a homage to the traditional Keralan architecture.
Want a private wooden villa all to yourself in Munnar? Castillo De Woods has got you covered. The establishment comes with high-class amenities and offers guided hiking tours to the surrounding Munnar mountains, and other outdoor activities like horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, off-road jeep safaris, and much more.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Guided hiking tours, jeep safaris, spa, swimming pool, guided nature walks, concierge.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 340 per night per room.
8. The Malabar House, Malabar, (Luxury Resort in Cochin)
Nestled on the Malabar Coast, the Malabar House is an exquisite heritage boutique hotel that comprises 17 cozy rooms and suites. Located in the historical part of Fort Cochin, its history dates back to 1755 and was originally used as a mansion by the wealthy Dutch spice and tea traders. The modern building that houses the Malabar House is a blend of traditional Malabar and colonial Dutch traditions.
If you are looking for an affordable boutique experience in Malabar, the Malabar House is one of the better places to stay in. A member of the Relais & Chateaux and Indian Heritage Hotel Association, it is located 12 km from the Cochin Railway stations. It also offers an excellent Keralan Spa called Purespa and a yoga center.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Gourmet cuisine, Ayurveda spa, yoga center, houseboat cruises.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 250 per night per room.
9. Forte Kochi Hotel, Cochin
The ancient fort of Kochi (cochin) was the maritime crossroad for centuries for Arabs, Persians, South East Asians, Chinese, and Europeans. This magnificent heritage hotel is located in the heart of the historical heart of Fort Kochi on Princess Street and offers twenty-seven colonial-themed rooms and suites that are a mix of colonial charm and modern luxury.
Forte Kochi Hotel is one of the finest heritage hotels in Cochin. It comes with modern luxuries like a large swimming pool, 24-7 room service, a concierge, several dining options, a gym and a library. A great heritage property to stay in.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5
Amenities: Swimming pool, concierge, fitness center, library.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 350 per night per room.
10. Vivanta by Taj – Bekal, Kasaragod
The Taj Vivanta has backwaters floating through its property. It is located on the southern shores of Kerala in Kasaragod, where the sea meets the sleepy backwaters. This 5-star resort has 75 rooms and villas that are inspired by the design of Ketuvallam houseboats. The property is adorned with Chitra Pothi art (traditional palm leaf drawings), and you will also find some Indonesian influences.
This excellent property comes with state-of-the-art facilities like a modern fitness center, a sauna, a spa, an outdoor swimming pool, a steam bath, and independent workstations.
Set amidst a canopy of swaying palms, the Taj Bekal is located on the pristine Kappil beach with a private beachfront where you can sunbathe and enjoy relaxing walks. The on-site J Wellness Circle Spa is famous for its “Alepa” traditional therapy that de-stresses your body.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5
Amenities: Backwaters flowing through the property, spa, sauna, swimming pool, gym, doctor-on-call.
Cost: Prices start at $ 230 per room per night.
11. Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort, Mararikulam, Alappuzha
The district of Alappuzha is often described as the “Venice of the East” because of its water canals and backwaters. Rated among the “Top 5 Wellness Retreats for Ultimate Renewal (2017)” by Forbes, and Winner of the World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards, the Carnoustie Ayurveda Resort comes highly recommended by experts.
This property features its beach and 25 acres of landscaped gardens and provides you with the perfect natural getaway. Its villas are a fusion of traditional and modern décor. The award-winning Aryavaidyasala Spa offers a range of Ayurveda therapies, marma, pranic healing, yoga classes, and naturopathy.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Beachfront location, 25 acres of landscaped lawns, Wellness Spa, Houseboat tours.
Cost: Villas start at $ 250 per night per unit.
12. Marari Beach Resort – A CGH Earth Experience, Marari
The Marari Beach Resort is designed for you to unwind and relax in luxury. It is set in a seaside village in Mararikulam with 30 acres of lily ponds, coconut groves, fruit trees, an organic farm, and sprawling geometrical gardens. This region of Kerala is noted for its laid-back rural charm and quiet.
This property prides itself on being the home of 350 species of endemic plants, 97 species of butterflies, 10 species of frogs, and 80 varieties of birds. The Marari Beach operated by the excellent CGH Earth Network of Luxury Hotels & Resorts features traditional thatched Malabari cottages.
The Marari Beach Resort is a great place to experience the vintage village-by-the-sea life in Mararikulam, with all the comforting amenities of modern life.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Outdoor cool pool, Ayurveda Spa, Souvenir shop, yoga sessions.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 200 per night per room.
13. Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa, Kovalam
The Taj Green Cove is set in 16 acres of green tropical foliage on the Kovalam shoreline. It features Balinese-themed villas that are perched on a hillock that overlooks the sea with a lagoon separating the sea and the villas. The property has a 1-km long pristine private beach.
It is located 20-minutes-drive away from the Trivandrum International Airport and offers many outdoor guided activities like scuba-diving, para-gliding, beach games, backwater boating, bird-watching, and much more.
With facilities like 24-hour dining, several specialty Indian restaurants, a business center, a beauty salon, a gym, a private lagoon, J Wellness Circle, an Ayureda Spa, a Yoga center, and an outdoor swimming pool, you are sure to have a great time at the Taj Green Cove Resort and Spa.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Romantic lagoon boatrides, 24-hour dining, concierge facilities, beauty salon, library, business center, board room, yoga center, spa, swimming pool.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 350 per night per room.
14. Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom
The Coconut Lagoon is another fine property owned and operated by the well-respected CGH Earth Group of Luxury Hotels. The name gives it away. This resort is located in the coconut lagoons of the enchanting backwaters of Kumarakom. The only way to get to this excellent resort is by boat.
Priding itself as a “pearl upon the waters,” the Coconut Lagoon is housed in traditional Keralan wooden homes that are transplanted to this property and preserved in their original condition to give you a sense of the traditional Keralan experience.
If you are looking for a relatively affordable heritage experience in the Kumarakom backwaters far away in the splendid isolation of fluttering palm trees, the Coconut Lagoon is a good budget-friendly option.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Swimming pool, gym, spa, open-air dining, multi-cuisine restaurant.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 300 per night per room.
15. The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal, Kasaragod
The LaLit Resort & Spa Bekal is located 1 km from the famous Bekal Fort (3 km from the nearest Kotikulam Railway Station). It is set in 26 acres of green space and is surrounded on three sides by the Arabian Sea. This fine property is a great mix of the sea, lagoons, and backwater.
LaLit Resort is located in a very accessible part of Kasaragod. It offers all the facilities that you can expect from any world-class luxury resort, and is a relatively affordable alternative to some of the expensive resorts in the state.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Spa, swimming pool, private jacuzzi, bar, multi-cuisine restaurant.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 160 per night per room.
