Fondly dubbed as ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is famous for its serene beaches, aromatic spice gardens, hill stations, and, of course, the enchanting backwaters. Threaded by a network of lagoons, canals, and lakes, the backwaters are the heart and soul of Kerala, and as such, the major tourist developments in the area, have given birth to a lot of luxurious backwater resorts in Kerala where you can enjoy the backwater atmosphere from your very own hotel room.
Kerala Overview
This beguiling southern belle of India is covered in shades of thick green from the leafy canopy of the Western Ghats (not to be confused with the ghats of Varanasi) and azure blue from the tranquil, palm-fringed beaches along the Arabian Sea. In this article, we focus more on the green and less on the blue. And Kerala has more than 900 kilometers of green. Kerala’s backwaters – a charming water network of rivers, lakes, lagoons, and canals that stretch over 900 kilometers- they’re the backbone of Kerala’s tourism, but also provide fertile grounds and means of transporting goods and people.
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Geography Of The Backwaters
In a display of geographical showmanship, Kerala’s backwaters snake their way from one end of the state to the other, interconnecting coastal and inland areas with the finesse of a master seamstress. From Kochi in the north to Kollam in the south, it’s a seamless watery highway that brings a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘go with the flow’.
Geographically speaking, these brackish lagoons or ‘Kayals’ are a result of the cusp of land meeting sea, giving birth to a tantalizing blend of salty seawater and fresh river water. You could say it’s nature’s own mocktail, a unique concoction that makes for a rich ecosystem and supports a plethora of flora and fauna. From the elusive Asian otters to kingfishers and egrets, you’re likely to spot a cast of characters that could rival any wildlife documentary.
The Concept Of Backwater Resorts In Kerala
The luxurious backwater resorts in Kerala are where luxury coexists with nature. It’s something you can rarely find in other parts of the world. It’s not a beach resort, even though it technically looks like it, but instead of being surrounded by sea, you’re ensconced in a placid waterway, sharing your morning coffee with playful otters and colorful kingfishers.
Best Time To Visit Kerala’s Backwaters
Kerala’s backwaters are a distinct place that you can’t visit throughout the year. Well, technically you can but if you want to have a really good time, go between September to March, when it’s moderately warm, the monsoons have just retreated, leaving in their wake a verdant landscape that could give the Garden of Eden a serious complex.
However, if you’re the sort who prefers a good bout of rain to a sunny day, you may want to visit during the monsoons, between June and August, that transform the landscape into various shades of green.
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15 Best Backwater Resorts In Kerala
Now that we covered some basics, let’s get to the most important part of this article; the best backwater resorts in Kerala, starting with…
Kumarakom Lake Resort
Nestled on the shores of the mesmerizing Vembanad Lake, this resort is one that’s fit for royalty. Don’t just take my word for it, ask Prince Charles himself – who celebrated his 65th birthday here. Yes, you read that right. If you come here, you could be sleeping in the same bed as the Prince of Wales.
The resort consists of traditional Kerala tharavads (ancestral homes) that were given quite a transformation to become the luxurious resort houses they are today but still kept many of their traditional elements, like antique wooden doorways and ornate gabled roofs.
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The Zuri Kumarakom Kerala Resort & Spa
This list of the best backwater resorts in Kerala couldn’t be complete without Zuri Kumarakom Kerala Resort & Spa; an oasis that sits on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. Their rooms are like luxurious cocoons of comfort that wrap you in elegance, and the Presidential Pool Villas (the finest accommodation option here) even come with a private garden, swimming pool, an open-air garden shower, and peacocks roaming around the garden.
Coconut Lagoon
Situated in the heart of the Kerala backwaters, this resort has Vembanad Lake as its front yard and swaying coconut palms for neighbors. Again, it’s another collection of traditional tharavadu houses (I hope you’re not getting bored by this, as this is what most backwater resorts in Kerala basically are), beautifully restored with carved wooden arches, verandas that open to the lake, and open-roofed bathrooms.
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The Leela Kovalam
Perched on a cliff overlooking the cerulean Arabian Sea, The Leela is a part of the famous Indian luxury chain that never fails to impress. The resort features panoramic vistas of the sun-kissed beaches of Kovalam, the rooms are a luxurious blend of traditional Kerala and Balinese influences, with private sundeck and infinity pools that will blow you away.
Marari Beach Resort
Speaking of backwater resorts in Kerala, we can’t forget about the Marari Beach Resort located in the remote fishing village of Mararikulam. It consists of thatched-roof villas that echo the local architecture, organic vegetable gardens, with each villa having its own (garden), and a lot of space; the resort stretches across 55 acres.
The resort’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its architecture. From an in-house water bottling plant to a butterfly garden, the Marari Beach Resort wears its Green Leaf certification with pride.
Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere
Nestled in the verdant lap of Vayalar, this 5-star resort is spread across 7.4 acres of sheer serenity. It has its own tranquil lagoon that gives Zen vibes, gorgeous villas, and floating cottages that are a mix of contemporary charm and traditional elegance.
Punnamada Resort
Perched on the verdant banks of the Vembanad Lake, Punnamada Resort is more than just a destination. It’s a snapshot of Kerala’s heritage and natural beauty, wrapped up in an elegantly laid-back atmosphere. From here, the famed Nehru Trophy Boat Race is not just an event, it’s a spectacle that unfolds right at your doorstep. So close, you can practically feel the oarsmen’s energy ripple through the waters.
With traditional Kerala architecture, each villa is a delicate balance of rustic charm and modern luxury. If walls could talk, these might break into an enchanting folk tale. The lake view villas? They’ve got the best seats in the house, offering panoramic views of the ever-dancing backwaters. Waking up here isn’t just about opening your eyes, it’s about opening your senses to the whispering winds and the melody of the lake.
Neeleshwar Hermitage
Located in unspoiled Northern Kerala, this heavenly hideaway has eschewed the glitz and glamour for a simple, unadulterated communion with nature. In fact, it’s so in tune with the surrounding environment, it’s almost like an exotic bird, perfectly camouflaged in its lush, tropical habitat.
With traditional Keralan cottages, or ‘kottages’ as they whimsically call them, your stay at Neeleshwar is akin to living in an enchanting Indian fairytale. Nestled amid luxuriant gardens, these cottages blend seamlessly with the environment. They’re so eco-friendly; you’d half expect Mother Nature to send a thank-you note!
The resort’s pièce de résistance is the Ananda Spa, a sanctuary of wellness that harnesses the ancient science of Ayurveda. Here, the treatments are so rejuvenating, they’re like Ctrl+Alt+Del for your stress. If relaxation had a headquarters, it would undoubtedly be here.
The Raviz Resort & Spa, Ashtamudi
Spread over 7 acres, this 5-star resort embodies Kerala’s rich culture and architectural heritage, while maintaining an air of modern elegance. It’s like a bridge between the past and the present, and trust me, the view is gorgeous from up here.
Step inside the rooms, and you’ll find the perfect marriage of traditional aesthetics and contemporary comforts. Think carved wooden details, plush bedding, and a view so serene, it could be the muse for a soulful Rumi poem. Their villas? Let’s just say, they’ve got more charm than a rom-com marathon.
No luxury retreat in Kerala would be complete without an Ayurveda spa, and the Raviz Resort & Spa doesn’t disappoint. ‘Zara’, their in-house spa, is like an oasis of rejuvenation, where skilled therapists weave magic with their healing touch. After a session here, you’ll feel so refreshed, even your aura will have a glow.
Sterling Lake Palace Resort
Spread across 14 acres of lush landscapes, this 5-star resort is a refreshing cocktail of beauty and elegance, served with a dash of Keralan charm. If serenity had a home address, it would surely be here. The interiors blend traditional Kerala architecture with modern comforts, creating spaces that are as homely as they are stylish. As for their floating cottages, they are an experience in themselves, offering front-row seats to the serene ballet of the backwaters.
Wellness is a top priority at the Lake Palace Resort, and their Ayurveda center is a testament to that. This is where time-honored therapies meet skilled therapists, resulting in an experience that’s as healing as it is relaxing. A session here, and you’d feel as fresh as a dew-kissed morning. But what truly sets this resort apart is the range of experiences it offers. From village walks and bird-watching tours to sunset cruises and traditional art performances, the resort leaves no stone unturned to ensure you truly experience Kerala.
Kondai Lip Backwater Heritage Resort
If tranquillity decided to take a vacation, this is where it would unpack its bags. Nestled in the backwaters of Alappuzha, this resort is so serene, even the busiest minds are enticed to hit the pause button and just breathe.
Stepping into the Kondai Lip is like stepping back in time. This eco-friendly resort has been crafted in the style of the ancient homes of Kerala, with the structures featuring laterite stone and wood. Each cottage is a testament to Kerala’s architectural heritage, with its sloping roofs and wooden pillars, telling a tale of the past. If history could have a holiday home, this might be it.
The accommodations here have a rustic charm that’s more infectious than a baby’s laughter. With wooden interiors, antique furnishings, and a private sit-out overlooking the backwaters, the rooms here are as comforting as a grandmother’s lullaby.
Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Ayurveda Spa
This 4-star resort, spread over 5 acres, is a green utopia and the definition of a ‘room with a view’. Every room, villa, and suite in the Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort offers the quintessential backwater experience, with panoramic views of the azure lake (you don’t have to make the reservation and wonder if you’ll get a room with a view or not- all rooms here come with a view).
Lakes & Lagoons Tour Company
Lakes & Lagoons have been crafting unique, unforgettable backwater experiences since 1993, and are the first certified Houseboat Tour Company in South India. Today, the resort has a fleet of 25 houseboats, ranging from single-bedroom to four-bedroom vessels, designed like traditional ‘Kettuvallams’ but with the kind of luxury that makes you feel like royalty.
Poovar Island Resort
This island resort is spread over 25 acres, and if I were to describe it in one word, it would be ‘extraordinary’. Poovar Island Resort offers a unique experience of living in floating cottages that brilliantly intertwine traditional Kerala architectural elements with modern comfort. And if that’s not enough for you, the resort also offers a plethora of activities, like speed boat rides, cultural performances, village tours, and Ayurvedic therapies.
How did you like this list of the best backwater resorts in Kerala for a luxurious getaway? Did you ever visit any of them? Which one was your favorite? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
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