Luxury Vacations in Kerala and Karnataka
Our vacations in Kerala, India welcome you to a wonderfully slow pace of life, immersed in abundant nature and culture.
- Tailor-made itineraries personalized just for you
- Exceptional experiences led by trusted private guides
- Curated collection of Kerala's finest hotels and resorts
- 24/7 support from our travel experts
erala is a hugely diverse region, offering a great deal without the long drives that often typify exploring some other parts of India. A cruise through the backwaters past idyllic traditional villages is always a highlight, as are the traditional fish curries, but there's so much more to see and do.
Visit the bustling city of Cochin, the hub of the spice trade filled with echoes of its Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial influences. A drive into the hills will take you to the dramatic scenery of Munnar and the wildlife at Thekkady. Karnataka is Kerala’s little-visited cousin, where temples, nature reserves, and peace and quiet are the order of the day.
Whatever your vision, our expert travel specialists will work with you to create an unforgettable Kerala vacation. We can open doors to the top experiences and places to stay in Cochin, Coorg, Neeleshwar, and more. Just tell us your idea of luxury and we'll bring it to life.
“Kerala in southern India is all about the beautiful scenery and quaint colonial towns. Visit tea plantations and relax in the backwaters in a complete change of pace from India’s cities. I recommend Kerala to my first-time guests traveling to India because of its warm and laid-back energy – it’s the perfect introduction to this dizzying country!”
Lili LeBaron, Asia Specialist
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1 - 10 of 15 Hotels
The Francis Residence
Cochin, Kerala and Karnataka, India
The Francis Residence is a welcoming homestay centrally located and within walking distance of the Chinese fishing nets and shops and restaurants. A wonderful home where you can learn the art of Keralan cuisine.
The Tall Trees Munnar
Munnar, Kerala and Karnataka, India
The Tall Trees is a secluded nature resort located near the charming hill station of Munnar. It is a nature lover's paradise, where modern creature comforts are nestled amongst tall evergreen forests, surrounded the misty mountains of the Western Ghats.
Brunton Boatyard
Cochin, Kerala and Karnataka, India
The Brunton Boatyard is situated at the mouth of Fort Cochin's harbor resurrected from the remains of a Victorian shipbuilding yard and has magnificent views of the sea and Delta. The hotel overlooks the large pool, garden and the sea.
Couples
Coconut Lagoon
Backwaters, Kerala and Karnataka, India
The perfect place to relax on the shore of Lake Vembenad in Kerala within easy access of Cochin. Coconut Lagoon is a charming hotel with heritage styled rooms, tropical gardens and fantastic local cuisine ideal for a final stop on a Keralan adventure.
Couples Cruise
Evolve Back Chikkana Halli Estate
Coorg, Kerala and Karnataka, India
Evolve Back Coorg, formerly Orange County Coorg is a luxury resort in an untouched part of India but still offering plenty of activities. Perched 800m above sea level, it sits within 300 acres of a working coffee and spice plantations.
Couples Culture Off the beaten track Adventure
Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge
Nagarhole National Park, Kerala and Karnataka, India
Evolve Back Kabini, formerly Orange County Kabini blends subtle luxury with ecological and environmental sensibilities. Explore both the Nagarhole National Park and the surrounding villages, offering a wonderful insight into rural India.
Couples Wildlife Adventure Culture
Houseboat
Backwaters, Kerala and Karnataka, 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.
Adventure Culture Couples Cruise
Marari Beach Resort
Marari Beach, Kerala and Karnataka, India
Built in the style of a local fishing village with its 62 thatched cottages. Set in 36 acres of parkland, Marari Beach Resort is set on the golden shores of the Spice Coast and is the perfect place to relax and unwind following a tour of Kerala.
Couples Beach Off the beaten track
Neeleshwar Hermitage
Neeleshwar, Kerala and Karnataka, India
Neeleshwar Hermitage is a gorgeous beach hotel located in a quiet, unspoiled corner of Northern Kerala. With a glorious peaceful atmosphere, Neeleshwar is a perfect destination for relaxation or a base to explore this wonderful part of India.
Couples Off the beaten track Spa & health Adventure
Old Harbor Hotel
Cochin, Kerala and Karnataka, India
Old Harbor, which was a Heritage monument of Fort Cochin, is now a beautifully traditional boutique hotel with plenty of character. At the heart of this ancient city, the Old Harbor hotel is a perfect retreat to escape the hustle and bustle.
Couples
1 - 2 of 2 Tour Ideas
nights
Exceptional Kerala and The Maldives
Cochin, Thekkady, Backwaters, Lake Vembenad & The Maldives
Captivating culture, tempting cuisine and an exclusive houseboat stay in Kerala. Follow this with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and luxurious contemporary accommodation in the Maldives. This luxury south India and Maldives tour itinerary is perfect for combining culture with relaxation, topped off with outstanding guides.
Adventure Beach Couples Culture
$6,000 pp
nights
Extraordinary Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Pondicherry, Tanjore, Chettinad, Madurai, Munnar & Cochin
Leap headfirst into our luxury escorted tour of India that takes you through Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Releasing your inner boho vibes, you'll be consumed by the splendour and aura of these mesmerizing regions, staying in stylish hideaways while taking in natural scenery and wildlife around you. Unrivaled culinary experiences and pampering await.
Couples Adventure Culture Off the beaten track
$7,200 pp
1 - 2 of 2 Tour Ideas
Where to Visit on Vacations to Kerala, India
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Kerala Backwaters, India
The languid rivers and waterways of the Kerala Backwaters mirror the slow pace of life in this part of India. With fishermen steering their boats past tiny villages and swaying palms while children in pristine uniforms make their way to school, life in all its forms is lived out on the banks of the rivers.
Whether you explore the Backwaters afloat on one of the Kerala houseboats or from dry land, this is a tranquil spot to relax and watch the world go by. Discover local crafts and livelihoods, marvel as coconut pickers nimbly scale the tall palms, and listen to the calls of the fishermen as they hawk the day’s catch from their boats.
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Cochin
A colorful fishing port with Dutch, Portuguese, and British roots, Cochin is a tranquil city with a distinctly Keralan charm. As a key trading port, Cochin’s rich history is revealed in its synagogue, ancient mosques, whitewashed churches, vibrant spice markets, and giant Chinese fishing nets; its wide, leafy streets are lined with vestiges of its past.
With a delightful selection of Cochin luxury hotels and beach resorts housed in historic buildings, it's a fascinating yet relaxing destination. Stroll along the water's edge and stop to marvel at the fishermen as they maneuver their nets, pop into the boutiques stocked with local crafts, and enjoy a selection of fresh seafood in a courtyard cafe, heavy with the scent of bougainvillea.
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Coorg
Nestled in the spice and coffee plantations of the Western Ghats, Coorg is an area of striking natural beauty, its densely forested hills home to a wealth of wildlife and birds. Its rich landscape is also home to a sizeable Tibetan population and the Namdroling Monastery, the second-largest in India.
Boasting 25% of the bird species in India, Coorg is a dream for bird enthusiasts. Embark on a safari in Nagarhole National Park to see the spectacular birdlife and healthy population of tigers, elephants, muntjacs, and bonnet macaques. Explore the spice and coffee plantations and discover the exquisite flavors that drew traders to the hills in search of their riches, before unwinding at your luxury resort or hotel in Coorg, India.
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Marari Beach
With long stretches of golden sands, palm-fringed and lapped by the gentle waters of the Indian Ocean, Marari is a laid-back beach near the quaint fishing village of Mararikulam. Dotted with small boutique properties and larger Marari Beach resorts, many boasting Ayurvedic spas, it's a perfect place to unwind.
Marari’s tropical beach invites travelers to relax at the end of a trip exploring Kerala’s many sights while offering a distinctively Keralan charm. Cool coconut water, light curries and fresh seafood offer a taste of South India, with the warm sea breeze carrying the scent of Ayurvedic oils and incense.
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Neeleshwar
Fringed with palm trees and cooled by the breeze from the Arabian Sea, Neeleshwar is a sleepy village nestled between the beach and the backwaters, making it an ideal choice for relaxing after a trip through Kerala and Karnataka. Largely untouched by tourism, it offers unspoiled beaches and a genuine welcome from comfortable Neeleshwar resorts.
The delightful Neeleshwar Hermitage steals the show with its 70ft beachside pool and exceptional sunset views. Spend the day exploring the fishing village or lazing by the pool before sitting down with a drink to watch as the sun dips over the sea, the swaying palms silhouetted against the vibrant sky.
- Kerala Backwaters, India
- Cochin
- Coorg
- Marari Beach
- Neeleshwar
Our team of India specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure. Contact us today to start planning your personalized trip.
Kerala and Karnataka Holiday FAQs
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The best time to visit Kerala and southern India is during the winter season from September to March, with October to February considered the peak. The climate is at its most comfortable during this period, with lower temperatures, humidity and rainfall providing the perfect conditions to explore this enchanting region.
Kerala's tropical climate brings high temperatures throughout the year, as well as dry and wet seasons. January is usually the driest month, while monsoon season runs from June to August. Extra rainfall in these months can cause flooding, though it also helps the region's greenery look its lushest.
Read more about the best times to visit India.
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Our Extraordinary Kerala and Tamil Nadu tour takes place over 14 nights, while our Exceptional Kerala and The Maldives adventure lasts for 12. These itineraries are purely our suggestions, however, and you can amend your trip duration as you see fit. Speak to our travel specialists to discuss your schedule and what you'd like to fit into it.
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Why Choose Scott Dunn for Your Luxury India Vacation?
Unique to You
- We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are personalized to you.
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- We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
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- We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
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