The placid waters of Vembanad Lake are a wonderful place to enjoy a couple of days during your time in Kerala. There are some delightful boutique offerings allowing guests to spend their nights on terra firma, and our pick of the 10 best hotels on Vembanad Lake provide the best in eco and boutique accommodation.
The state’s largest lake, it welcomes an impressive variety of birdlife from the fluorescent kingfisher to India’s third largest population of waterfowl. Head out on the lake’s waters aboard one of Kerala’s traditional kettuvallam boats for an authentic experience. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located on the eastern waters of the lake is host to an incredible array of birdlife. Budding twitchers pack your binoculars; you are in for a treat.
Visit during the famous Onam festival when a spectacular water regatta - the snake boat races – takes place. Look on as heavily decorated boats, at least one hundred oarsmen to each, slice across the lake’s usually tranquil waters, propelled by their own strength and rhythmic songs.
Our pick of the 10 best hotels on Vembanad Lake all provide an authentically Keralan stay.
A labour of love for its Italian owner, completed in 2003, Purity provides modern meets traditional accommodation. Muted tones juxtaposed with pop colours create a chic feel whilst the hotel’s spa, offering tailor made packages, makes it a truly indulgent stay.
Vismaya is a recently refurbished, intimate 400 year old villa, situated on a peninsula, hidden in a tropical coconut grove, with a spectacular three-sided views of the salty expansive Lake Vembanad. Recently renovated to a high standard, there are only two bedrooms with modern en suite outdoor bathrooms allowing guests to shower under a blue or starry sky. A small team of staff are on hand to look after a maximum of 4 people so it’s designed to be an extremely special, pampering experience.
Ameya is a newly-built, French-owned eco-retreat, with stunning uninterrupted 180 degree lake views. Accommodation is in 3 spacious deluxe cottages - two with their own private wooden cabanas, and there's a calm ambience and a feeling or barefoot luxury.
Philipkutty's Farm is a charming homestay on a farm-island on the eastern shores of the lake. Food is one of the main draws here, along with the warm welcome and charming accommodation - it's even been endorsed by Rick Stein.
Coconut Lagoon is a former coconut planation accessed by a small canal. Private cottages are scattered amongst its luscious grounds, making it ideal for both families and couples. Famed for its home-cooked Keralan cuisine guests can enjoy private cooking classes with the chef.
Or what about staying on a traditional Keralan 'kettuvallom' style boat? Board the Discovery, an electric powered house boat is making waves in the sustainable tourism sector. With one master bedroom and a sitting room that can be converted into twin beds it is ideally suited for a romantic getaway or holidaying families. Decor is simple yet chic with locally sourced materials and artwork. Similarly meals are a modern take on Southern Indian dining - delicious fish dishes, served on a banana leaf, can be enjoyed out on the sunny terrace whilst cruising along the backwaters at a leisurely pace.
Boasting one of the largest spas in South India, The Zuri Kumarakom is the perfect stay for those interested in a wellness retreat. Including traditional Ayurvedic, Chinese and Western treatments and private yoga classes it is the place to come to truly unwind.
The Kumarakom Lake Resort is a 50 room resort sitting in blissful peace beside Venbanad Lake, offering both rooms and traditionally inspired villas set beside the river and a river-style swimming pool. The decor features plenty of teak and a luxurious air. Some of the villas have outdoor bathrooms.
With plenty of on site activities and ways to tire themselves out, the little ones will be well looked after at Vivanta by Taj Kumarakom. Add to this two bedroom villas with private pools and children's menu, plus fine dining and a spa for the grownups, there is something for all the family. And the 28 rooms start from around £85 per night.
On the lake's southern shore, the Punnamada Resort is a bastion of classical elegance, promising quality, understated luxury and discreet, professional service. Accommodation is in a collection of bunaglows surrounding the pool, with well designed jack fruit wood interiors with four-poster ultra comfortable beds (complete with draped mosquito net), attractive desks, trunk-style tables, intricate carved details and quality brass fittings.
Kerala (Kerala)
Your own private Keralan 'kettuvallom' style boat for exploring the verdant backwaters. With chic, pop colour interiors and an electric motor making for a quieter, more eco friendly stay. There is a large terrace for sunning, reading a good book and where meals are served. Tradition with a twist.
Kerala (Kerala)
Built in 2003 by Florentine architect Maria Fernhof this is a modern boutique hotel yet filled with antiques. Modern art covers the walls and relaxing verandahs benefit from garden and lake views. Fresh Keralan dishes are served al-fresco, weather permitting. There is a pleasant pool and spa.
Kottayam (Vechoor, Kottayam Dist. )
An idyllic homestay on a farm-island in the backwaters of Lake Vembanad. A truly authentic Keralan experience in a magical setting
Kottayam (Kerala)
Accessible via a small canal this property is located right on the water. Cottages are scattered around the grounds of this former coconut plantation, each with private terraces, sitting rooms whilst the bungalows and villas have their own pools. There is an indulgent pool and Ayurvedic spa for all.
Kottayam (Kerala)
Overlooking the picturesque Vembanad Lake this property enjoys an enviable position. Eighteen verdant acres are connected by shady walkways, gullies and streams whilst colourful cottages are decorated in a Portuguese style. Plus there's the JIVA spa, and Regional and International cuisine.
Kottayam (Athikkalam, Kottayam, Kerala)
The Zuri is all about pampering yourself at the Maya spa. With an extensive wellness menu, fitness centre and detox packages - leave feeling completely rejuvenated. Surrounding a peaceful lagoon there are international dining options and on site activities. Modern rooms enjoy Vembanad Lake views.
Kerala (Varanad)
Lakeside luxury can be found at this newly opened French owned retreat where space, privacy and first class service are to be found. Best for couples.
Alappuzha (Kottankulangara)
The classic, timeless style will appeal to those who like quality, understated luxury and discreet, professional service. Beautiful location and caters well for all activities. Just as well suited to families as it is for couples and solo travellers.
Kerala
Lakeside retreat in a beautiful old building recently renovated with stunning views, discreet personal service catering for sublime relaxation. For couples and families with older children.
Kottayam (Kottayam)
A blissful Keralan resort sitting by a serene lake. Traditionally inspired villas are set beside a river-style swimming pool with doors opening directly onto the water. Teak wooden floors, beamed ceilings and local furniture gives a luxurious air, as do the outdoor bathrooms. A fabulous stay.
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