Unwind At 10 Of The Best Resorts In Kerala
From seaside villas, restored heritage properties and even hill station estates, kick back and unwind in South India at some of the best resorts in Kerala.
From the temple towns of Tamil Nadu to the spice-scented hills of Karnataka, South India is a land of remarkable beauty and cultural richness. Known for its grand architecture, tropical landscapes, and diverse traditions, it offers a journey through ancient history, colourful festivals, and timeless crafts.
Each state has its own language, cuisine, art forms and ways of life, yet all are tied together by a strong sense of identity and heritage. South India invites travellers to look beyond the obvious and discover the rhythms of daily life - from morning prayers in village temples to age-old classical music performances, and bustling local markets filled with regional produce and handmade goods.
Among the many gems of South India, Kerala holds a special place with its calm backwaters, forested mountains, and coconut-fringed coastlines. It is a place where time slows down and nature takes centre stage, offering India’s most welcoming hospitality, seen in its food, its people, and its places to stay.
With houseboat journeys through quiet canals to wildlife sanctuaries and hill stations once favoured by colonial settlers, Kerala offers a balance of comfort and immersion. Ayurvedic traditions, Kathakali dance, and fresh seafood meals complete the experience, making it a state that appeals to both first-time and returning visitors.
For those seeking a slower, more grounded way to experience India, Kerala - and the south more broadly - is a natural starting point.
Kerala is famous for its lush backwaters, palm-lined beaches, hill stations, rich cultural traditions and Ayurvedic wellness, offering a calm and scenic alternative to India’s more fast-paced regions.
How is Kerala different from the rest of India?
Proudly known amongst locals as “God’s Own Country”, Kerala stands apart from much of the rest of India in both landscape and lifestyle. Geographically, it’s a narrow strip of land along the southwestern coast, bordered by the Arabian Sea and the forested Western Ghats, creating a lush, tropical setting that contrasts with the arid plains and deserts found in other parts of the country. Its backwaters, palm-lined beaches and green hills offer a calmer, more nature-focused travel experience.
Culturally, Kerala has a distinct identity shaped by centuries of maritime trade, a high literacy rate, and a long tradition of religious harmony. The pace of life is slower, with a strong emphasis on community, education and local pride. You’ll find classical dance forms like Kathakali, a thriving literary scene, and deeply rooted Ayurvedic practices still woven into everyday routines. Politically and socially, it’s one of India’s most progressive states, with notable achievements in public health, gender development and grassroots governance.
Food, festivals, language and architecture also set Kerala apart. The cuisine is heavily coconut-based, with an emphasis on seafood and rice, while Malayalam is the primary language spoken. Temple design, folk traditions, and even religious rituals differ from those in the north and other parts of the south. In short, Kerala offers a distinctive blend of nature, culture and tradition that feels both unmistakably Indian and entirely its own.
Foreigners love Kerala for its calm, authenticity, and sustainable travel options. Many come for wellness retreats, homestays, or to simply unwind in nature. From sipping fresh coconut water on a beach or drifting through a silent lagoon with friends or family, Kerala offers something personal and memorable - but where should you stay?
From sipping fresh coconut water on a beach or drifting through a silent lagoon with friends or family, Kerala offers something personal and memorable for everyone.
Where can you find the best resorts in Kerala?
Offering a unique blend of nature, culture, wellness, and warm hospitality, Kerala is a destination ideal for a romantic getaway, a family trip, a wellness break, or simply some time to relax. Staying at a resort lets you experience the region’s beauty up close, from backwaters and lush plantations to beaches. To help you choose the perfect stay, here are some of the best resorts in Kerala that we love to include in almost any South India itinerary.
Coconut Lagoon
Coconut Lagoon is a tranquil backwater retreat nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom. Accessible only by boat, the resort is composed of restored traditional tharavadu homes set amid lush coconut groves and canals. Each cottage reflects Kerala’s heritage, blending carved wood architecture with modern comforts. Guests enjoy curated cultural experiences, Ayurvedic treatments and birdwatching, all while soaking in nature and local life.
Neeleshwar Hermitage
Set on a quiet stretch of North Kerala’s Malabar Coast, Neeleshwar Hermitage is a boutique beach retreat that combines traditional design with laid-back luxury. Thatched cottages open onto gardens, the pool or the sea, offering privacy and calm. Guests can enjoy Ayurvedic therapies, fresh local cuisine and slow-paced activities like backwater cruises and cycling. It’s an ideal escape for travellers seeking nature and understated comfort away from the tourist trail.
Brunton Boatyard
Brunton Boatyard sits on the Fort Kochi waterfront, where a colonial-era shipyard has been transformed into a heritage hotel with character and charm. With views of the harbour and passing fishing boats, it offers spacious rooms, period-inspired design and a strong sense of place. Guests can explore Kochi’s layered history, enjoy coastal cuisine influenced by old trade routes, and return to a peaceful base with a pool, Ayurvedic treatments and thoughtful service.
Marari Beach Resort
Just steps from the Arabian Sea, Marari Beach Resort offers a peaceful escape inspired by Kerala’s coastal villages. Set across coconut groves and gardens, its thatched cottages blend local style with open-air living and comfort. Guests can relax by the pool, explore nearby villages, or join yoga and cooking sessions. With fresh regional food and a strong focus on sustainability, the resort captures the rhythm and beauty of life by the sea.
Pepper Trail
Tucked within a 200-acre spice and coffee estate in Wayanad, Pepper Trail offers a refined, nature-based retreat in the mountainous Western Ghats in Kerala. Guests stay in elegant treehouses or a restored colonial bungalow, surrounded by forest and plantation views. Activities include plantation walks, birdwatching and canoe rides, while the on-site restaurant serves locally inspired cuisine.
Kumarakom Lake Resort
Set on the edge of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Lake Resort combines traditional architecture with five-star comfort. Heritage villas, canal-side cottages and private pool options offer serene views and handcrafted detail. Guests can enjoy Ayurvedic treatments, local cuisine, and sunset cruises on the backwaters. With lush gardens, thoughtful service and access to nearby bird sanctuaries and villages, King Charles and Queen Camilla even stayed here in 2014.
The Leela Kovalam
Perched on a cliff above the Arabian Sea, The Leela Kovalam offers panoramic ocean views and upscale comfort on Kerala’s southern coast. Elegant rooms and suites come with private balconies, while the infinity pool, spa and clifftop dining create a relaxed, indulgent atmosphere. Guests can enjoy beach access, wellness treatments and fine coastal cuisine, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both luxury and natural beauty by the sea.
Taj Bekal Resort & Spa
Taj Bekal offers a luxurious riverside escape in Kerala’s north, inspired by traditional Kettuvallam houseboats. The resort, surrounded by lush landscapes and the serene Kappil River, is perfect for romantic and wellness-focused getaways. It features a renowned Jiva Spa, private plunge pools, and stylish villas. Its architecture, service, and natural setting reflect the essence of relaxed Kerala living and laid-back luxury.
Xandari Pearl
Tucked away near Marari Beach, Xandari Pearl is a peaceful coastal retreat set within lush gardens and coconut groves. Its spacious villas, many with private plunge pools and open-air showers, offer privacy and simplicity in a natural setting. Guests can unwind with yoga, enjoy farm-to-table meals made from organic produce, or explore the nearby village by bike. With its quiet charm and focus on sustainability, the resort offers an easy, barefoot kind of luxury.
Shalimar Spice Garden
Surrounded by cardamom plantations and thick forest, Shalimar Spice Garden is one of the best resorts in Kerala for nature lovers. Located in Thekkady, it blends European comfort with Kerala decor, offering cottages with wooden interiors and fireplaces. Activities include nature walks, spice plantation tours, and visits to the nearby Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Its cool climate and earthy charm make it a perfect mountain retreat.
From boutique mountain retreats to five star luxury properties, travellers are spoilt for options when it comes to choosing between the best resorts in Kerala.
When is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is from October to March, when the weather is cooler, less humid, and ideal for sightseeing, backwater cruises, and beach stays. During these months, daytime temperatures are comfortable, and the evenings are pleasant, making it the most popular season for travellers.
The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes. While not ideal for beach holidays, it’s considered a good time for Ayurvedic treatments, as the cool, damp weather is believed to enhance their effectiveness. The rains also offer a quieter, more peaceful experience for those interested in nature and wellness.
April and May are the hottest months, with high humidity and soaring temperatures, especially in the lowland and coastal areas. Hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad offer some relief during this time, making them suitable for summer escapes. Ultimately, your ideal time to visit depends on what kind of Kerala experience you're after - relaxation, festivals, wildlife, wellness, or exploration.
If you’re planning for a beach break on your South India itinerary, make sure you check what the weather has in store before making a reservation.
Plan your South India itinerary with India Unbound
Established in 2007, India Unbound is an award-winning travel company specialising in custom-made journeys and private tours across India. We craft immersive, tailor-made itineraries that reveal the heart and soul of this incredible country to curious and discerning travellers. Inspired to relax in some of the best resorts in Kerala? Get in touch today for a personalised South India itinerary and let’s make it happen.