Best Accommodations in Kerala: From Houseboats to Luxury Resorts

Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of backwater waves against your floating bedroom, or opening your eyes to mist-covered tea plantations stretching endlessly before you. Welcome to Kerala, where accommodation isn't just a place to sleep—it's an integral part of your travel experience.

God's Own Country offers a remarkable tapestry of stays that cater to every traveler's dream, budget, and wanderlust. Whether you're a honeymooner seeking romance, a solo adventurer craving unique experiences, or a family looking for comfortable retreats, Kerala's accommodation scene will leave you spoiled for choice.

Let's dive into the wonderful world of Kerala stays and help you find your perfect home away from home.

Iconic Houseboat Stays: Kerala's Floating Paradise

No trip to Kerala is complete without experiencing the legendary kettuvallam—traditional houseboats that have become synonymous with Kerala tourism. These converted rice barges now offer some of the most unique accommodations in all of India.

What to Expect on a Houseboat

Modern houseboats come equipped with:

• Air-conditioned bedrooms with attached bathrooms
• Open-air dining areas
• Sun decks for lounging
• Private crew including a captain, chef, and helper
• Traditional Kerala meals prepared fresh onboard

Types of Houseboats Available

Deluxe Houseboats: Perfect for couples, featuring one bedroom with premium amenities, starting around ₹8,000-12,000 per night.

Premium Houseboats: Larger vessels with two to three bedrooms, ideal for families or small groups, ranging from ₹15,000-25,000 per night.

Luxury Houseboats: The crème de la crème, offering jacuzzis, upper decks, and gourmet dining experiences, priced at ₹30,000 and above.

Pro tip: Book your houseboat experience in Alleppey or Kumarakom for the most scenic backwater routes. Avoid peak monsoon months (June-August) when waterways can be choppy.

Luxury Resorts and Wellness Retreats

Kerala has earned its reputation as a premier wellness destination, and its luxury resorts reflect this perfectly. From beachfront properties to hillside havens, these accommodations offer world-class amenities wrapped in Kerala's natural beauty.

Top Luxury Experiences

Ayurvedic Resorts: Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, and resorts like CGH Earth properties, Somatheeram, and Kalari Kovilakom offer authentic healing experiences. Expect personalized treatment programs, organic cuisine, and serene environments designed for rejuvenation.

Beach Resorts: The coastline from Kovalam to Bekal hosts stunning properties. The Leela Kovalam perched on a cliff and Taj Bekal Resort & Spa offer breathtaking ocean views with five-star luxury.

Hill Station Retreats: In Munnar and Wayanad, properties like Windermere Estate and Vythiri Resort provide cool mountain air, plantation tours, and spa facilities amidst nature.

What Sets Kerala Resorts Apart

• Traditional Kerala architecture with modern comforts
• Farm-to-table dining featuring local cuisine
• In-house Ayurvedic centers with certified practitioners
• Eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism initiatives
• Cultural programs including Kathakali performances and cooking classes

Boutique Hotels and Heritage Properties

For travelers seeking character and history, Kerala's boutique hotels and heritage properties offer an intimate glimpse into the state's rich cultural past.

Heritage Homestays

Many aristocratic families have converted their ancestral homes—called tharavads—into charming guesthouses. These properties feature:

• Original wooden architecture and antique furnishings
• Home-cooked traditional meals
• Personal interactions with host families
• Stories and histories spanning generations

Notable mentions include Philipkutty's Farm in Kottayam, Harivihar in Calicut, and Purity at Lake Vembanad.

Boutique Hotels

Urban centers like Kochi (Cochin) have seen a boom in stylish boutique properties. Fort Kochi, in particular, offers converted warehouses and colonial buildings reimagined as chic hotels. Brunton Boatyard, The Old Harbour Hotel, and Xandari Harbour blend heritage charm with contemporary design.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Traveling on a budget? Kerala welcomes you with open arms and plenty of affordable options that don't compromise on experience.

Hostels and Backpacker Stays

The backpacker scene has flourished in recent years:

• Zostel Alleppey and Zostel Munnar: Popular chain hostels with dorm beds starting at ₹500-800
• Vedanta Wake Up hostels: Clean, modern facilities in multiple locations
• Local guesthouses: Family-run properties offering basic rooms for ₹800-1,500

Government Accommodations

KTDC (Kerala Tourism Development Corporation) operates hotels and resorts across the state at reasonable rates. While basic, they're often located in prime spots and offer reliable service.

Homestays on a Budget

Kerala's homestay network is extensive and affordable. Platforms like Airbnb and Kerala Homestays list properties starting from ₹1,000-2,000 per night, including breakfast. This is arguably the best way to experience authentic Kerala hospitality.

Unique and Offbeat Accommodations

For the adventurous soul, Kerala offers some truly extraordinary places to rest your head.

Treehouse Stays

Wayanad and Thekkady are famous for their treehouse accommodations. Imagine sleeping among the canopy, with wildlife sounds as your lullaby. Vythiri Resort, Tranquil Resort, and Green Magic Nature Resort offer memorable treehouse experiences.

Plantation Bungalows

Stay in colonial-era bungalows surrounded by tea, coffee, or spice plantations. These properties often include:

• Guided plantation walks
• Tea/coffee tasting sessions
• Bird watching opportunities
• Bonfire evenings

Sinna Dorai's Bungalow in Valparai (nearby Tamil Nadu, easily accessible from Kerala) and various Munnar plantation stays are excellent choices.

Eco-Lodges and Jungle Camps

Near wildlife sanctuaries like Periyar and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, eco-lodges offer sustainable stays close to nature. Elephant Junction and Periyar House provide opportunities for wildlife spotting while maintaining environmental responsibility.

Practical Tips for Booking Kerala Accommodations

Best Time to Book

• Peak Season (October-March): Book 2-3 months in advance, especially for houseboats and popular resorts
• Monsoon (June-September): Great deals available; ideal for Ayurvedic treatments
• Shoulder Season (April-May): Moderate crowds, reasonable prices

Money-Saving Strategies

• Book directly with properties for better rates
• Consider weekday stays for lower prices
• Look for packages combining accommodation with activities
• Use local booking platforms alongside international ones

What to Look For

1. Location: Proximity to attractions you want to visit
2. Reviews: Check multiple platforms for honest feedback
3. Inclusions: Many properties include breakfast and activities
4. Cancellation policies: Especially important during monsoon season
5. Transportation: Some remote properties offer pickup services

Regional Accommodation Highlights

Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Kerala Stay Awaits

Kerala's accommodation landscape is as diverse as its geography—from serene backwaters to misty mountains, from bustling cities to tranquil villages. The key is matching your stay to your travel style and the experiences you seek.

Here are your actionable takeaways:

• First-timers: Don't miss at least one night on a houseboat—it's quintessentially Kerala
• Wellness seekers: Invest in a proper Ayurvedic resort stay of at least 5-7 days
• Budget travelers: Embrace homestays for authentic experiences without breaking the bank
• Adventure lovers: Try a treehouse or eco-lodge in Wayanad or Thekkady
• Luxury travelers: Spread your trip across different premium properties to experience varied landscapes

Whichever accommodation you choose, one thing is certain: Kerala's legendary hospitality will make you feel welcomed, pampered, and eager to return. Swaagatham—welcome to God's Own Country!

Have you experienced Kerala's unique accommodations? Share your favorite stays in the comments below!