Kerala, aptly called God's Own
Country is one of India's most breathtaking travel destinations. Lush green
hills blanketed in tea gardens, tranquil backwaters shimmering under golden
sunsets, and pristine Arabian Sea beaches stretching as far as the eye can see.
Kerala is not just a destination; it is a feeling one of warmth, serenity, and
timeless beauty.
Whether you are drawn to the
misty heights of Munnar, the colonial charm of Kochi, the royal heritage of
Trivandrum, or the sun-kissed sands of Kovalam, Kerala welcomes every kind of
traveller with open arms and exceptional hospitality.
In this guide, we take you
through Kerala's four most iconic destinations and the finest hotels to stay
at, all bookable instantly at the best prices on Karo Trip. Pack your bags your
perfect Kerala journey begins here.
Quick Booking Tip
Book your Kerala hotels early,
especially between October and March (peak season). Hotels in Munnar, Kovalam
and Kochi fill up fast during Christmas, New Year and the Onam festival. Visit
karotrip.com to compare prices and lock in the best deals.
Hotels in Munnar — Where the
Hills Meet the Clouds
Perched at 1,600 metres above sea
level in the Western Ghats, Munnar is Kerala's most celebrated hill station.
Situated at the confluence of three mountain streams, Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni,
and Kundale this emerald paradise was once the summer retreat of the British
government in South India. Today it lures travellers from around the world with
its boundless tea estates, cascading waterfalls, rare wildlife, and cool misty
mornings that make you never want to leave.
What to See & Do in Munnar
• Eravikulam
National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr mountain goat
• Mattupetty
Dam & Kundala Lake, stunning reservoir views with boating facilities
• Echo
Point, nature's own amphitheatre surrounded by shola forests
• Tata
Tea Museum, journey through the fascinating history of Kerala's tea industry
• Blossom
Hydel Park & Rajamalai, perfect for nature walks and photography
• Attukal
and Cheeyappara Waterfalls, spectacular cascades on the Kochi–Munnar highway
Top Hotels in Munnar on Karo
Trip
Karo Trip lists a curated
selection of Munnar's best properties, from cosy budget homestays nestled in
tea gardens to premium resorts with panoramic mountain views. Here are the top
picks:
|
Hotel Name
|
Category
|
Best For
|
|
Windermere Estate
|
Luxury Resort
|
Couples & Honeymooners
|
|
The Tall Trees Munnar
|
Premium Resort
|
Nature Lovers
|
|
Spice Tree Resort
|
Boutique Luxury
|
Experiential Stays
|
|
Blanket Hotel & Spa
|
4-Star Hotel
|
Families & Groups
|
|
Munnar Tea County
|
Heritage Resort
|
Tea Estate Experience
|
|
Parakkat Nature Hotels
|
Eco Resort
|
Budget Travellers
|
|
KTDC Tea County
|
Government Hotel
|
Budget & Solo Travellers
|
Best Time to Visit Munnar
Peak Season (October – March)
Cool, pleasant weather with
temperatures between 5°C and 25°C. Perfect for sightseeing. Book hotels at
least 4–6 weeks in advance as occupancy is very high during this period.
Monsoon Season (June –
September)
Munnar transforms into a lush,
green paradise during the rains. Waterfalls are at their most spectacular. Some
trekking routes close but hotel rates drop significantly great for budget
travellers.
Hotels in Kochi — The Queen of
the Arabian Sea
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is
Kerala's most cosmopolitan city a magnificent blend of ancient history and
modern energy. For centuries, traders, explorers, and conquerors came to
Kochi's shores: the Portuguese, the Dutch, the British all leaving behind a
rich tapestry of colonial architecture, synagogues, churches, and spice markets
that continue to captivate visitors today.
Fort Kochi, with its iconic
Chinese fishing nets silhouetted against Arabian Sea sunsets, is one of India's
most photographed scenes. The city is also the gateway to Kerala's backwaters
and the starting point for most Kerala tour itineraries, making it an
indispensable destination on any Kerala journey.
What to See & Do in Kochi
• Fort
Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets, Kerala's most iconic landmark, best at sunset
• Paradesi
Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth
• Mattancherry
Dutch Palace, stunning Kerala murals depicting Ramayana scenes
• St.
Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried in 1524
• Kerala
Kathakali Centre, witness the magnificent classical dance performance
• Marine
Drive & Ernakulam Markets, perfect for an evening stroll and local shopping
• Cherai
Beach, a stunning beach just 30 km from the city centre
Top Hotels in Kochi on Karo
Trip
|
Hotel Name
|
Category
|
Best For
|
|
Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
|
5-Star Luxury
|
Business & Luxury Travel
|
|
Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty
|
5-Star Luxury
|
Families & Couples
|
|
Crowne Plaza Kochi by IHG
|
5-Star Hotel
|
Business Travellers
|
|
The Brunton Boatyard
|
Heritage Hotel
|
History & Culture Lovers
|
|
Marriott Kochi Hotel
|
5-Star Hotel
|
Premium Comfort
|
|
Casino Hotel Kochi
|
4-Star Hotel
|
Mid-range Travellers
|
|
Treebo Hotels Kochi
|
Budget Hotel
|
Budget & Solo Travellers
|
Best Time to Visit Kochi
Kochi is a year-round
destination, but October to February offers the most pleasant weather (23°C –
32°C). The Cochin Carnival held during New Year week is a particularly vibrant
time to visit. The Biennale India's premier international art festival takes
place in Kochi from December to March.
Hotels in Kovalam: Where the
Arabian Sea Meets Pure Bliss
Kovalam is Kerala's most
celebrated beach destination, a crescent-shaped paradise of white sand beaches,
swaying palms, and turquoise Arabian Sea waters located just 16 km from
Trivandrum. What was once a quiet fishing village has grown into one of India's
premier coastal resorts, drawing travellers seeking the perfect combination of
beach relaxation, Ayurvedic wellness, and vibrant coastal culture.
Kovalam's three beaches: Lighthouse
Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach are the most sought after beaches in Kovalam,
each having their own distinct charm and attractions. Lighthouse Beach, named after the 19th-century
lighthouse that overlooks it, is the most popular, lined with seafood
restaurants, beach shacks, and Ayurvedic massage centres. Samudra Beach,
quieter and more secluded, is the preferred choice of those seeking peace and
solitude.
What to See & Do in
Kovalam
• Lighthouse
Beach, the heart of Kovalam, perfect for swimming and people-watching
• Samudra
Beach, quieter stretch ideal for sunrise walks and meditation
• Kovalam
Lighthouse, climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic sea views
• Ayurvedic
Treatments, Kovalam is Kerala's Ayurveda capital; don't miss a traditional
massage
• Water
Sports, jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, and catamaran cruising
• Karamana
River & Hawa Beach, scenic spots for photography and local culture
• Day
trip to Padmanabhapuram Palace, a 16th-century wooden palace just 60 km away
Top Hotels in Kovalam on Karo
Trip
|
Hotel Name
|
Category
|
Best For
|
|
The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel
|
5-Star Clifftop Resort
|
Ultimate Luxury Experience
|
|
Uday Samudra Beach Hotel
|
5-Star Beach Resort
|
Beachfront Couples
|
|
Vivanta Kovalam Kerala
|
5-Star Luxury
|
Premium Beach Stays
|
|
Turtle on the Beach
|
Boutique Beach Hotel
|
Couples & Honeymooners
|
|
Rockholm Cliff Hotel
|
Heritage Cliff Hotel
|
Ocean View Seekers
|
|
Hotel Samudra KTDC
|
3-Star Beach Hotel
|
Budget Beachfront
|
|
Wilson's Beach Resort
|
Budget Resort
|
Backpackers
|
The Leela Kovalam — A Special
Mention
India's Only Clifftop 5-Star
Resort
Perched majestically 30 metres
above the Arabian Sea, The Leela Kovalam is a legendary property spread across
67 acres, including the historic Halcyon Castle once the royal summer residence
of Travancore's kings. Designed by the celebrated architect Charles Correa, it
is consistently rated among India's finest beach resorts. Book via Karo Trip
for exclusive rates.
Hotels in Trivandrum — The
Royal Capital of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, lovingly
called Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala and one of the most
historically and spiritually significant cities in South India. Named after the
sacred serpent Anantha on whom Lord Vishnu reclines, Trivandrum is home to the
legendary Padmanabhaswamy Temple, whose treasury is estimated to be the richest
in the world.
Beyond its spiritual grandeur,
Trivandrum is a city of museums, art galleries, botanical gardens, and beaches.
It is the perfect base for exploring southern Kerala and is Kerala's primary
international airport hub, making it the ideal starting or ending point for any
Kerala journey.
What to See & Do in
Trivandrum
• Sri
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: one of India's most sacred and architecturally
magnificent temples
• Napier
Museum: a stunning Gothic-Kerala architecture building housing royal
artifacts and art
• Sri
Chitra Art Gallery: India's finest collection of Kerala, Mughal and Tanjore
paintings
• Kanakakunnu
Palace: royal palace set in beautiful gardens hosting cultural events
• Shanghumugham
Beach: Trivandrum's own beach, perfect for an evening stroll
• Veli
Tourist Village: where the backwaters meet the sea, with a floating bridge
• Kowdiar
Palace: former residence of the royal family of Travancore
• Attukal
Bhagavathi Temple: holds the Guinness World Record for the largest
gathering of women
Top Hotels in Trivandrum on
Karo Trip
|
Hotel Name
|
Category
|
Best For
|
|
Taj Vivanta Trivandrum
|
5-Star Luxury
|
Business & Leisure
|
|
The Central Residency
|
4-Star Hotel
|
City Centre Stays
|
|
Muthoot Plaza Trivandrum
|
4-Star Hotel
|
Business Travellers
|
|
Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum
|
4-Star Hotel
|
Modern Comfort
|
|
Wild Palms Serviced Apt.
|
Serviced Apts
|
Long Stay Travellers
|
|
Hotel Regency Trivandrum
|
3-Star Hotel
|
Budget Comfort
|
|
Greenland Lodging
|
Budget Hotel
|
Solo & Budget Travellers
|
Trivandrum or Kovalam — Which
to Stay In?
Practical Tip for Travellers
If you plan to visit
Padmanabhaswamy Temple and explore city attractions, stay in Trivandrum. If
beaches, Ayurveda and sunsets are your priority, stay in Kovalam (just 16 km
away). Many travellers split their time between both book both properties on
Karo Trip in a single session.
Kerala Travel Tips — Practical
Guide for First-Time Visitors
Best Time to Visit Kerala
The ideal time to visit Kerala is
between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant, skies are
clear, and all tourist attractions are fully operational. The monsoon season
(June–September) is magical for those who enjoy lush landscapes and dramatic
waterfalls, with significantly lower hotel rates.
How to Get Around
• Kochi
is the main entry point served by Cochin International Airport (COK)
• Trivandrum
International Airport (TRV) serves the southern circuit
• Kerala
State Road Transport buses connect major cities reliably
• Hire
a private cab for flexibility most hotels on Karo Trip assist with cab
bookings
• Auto-rickshaws
are ideal for short distances within cities
If you are planning a trip from Mumbai to Kochi or from Delhi to Kerala, Chennai to Kerala, or Bangalore to Kerala, we at Karo Trip offer exciting offer and deals on online flight bookings. Our website is enlisted with flight booking services, hotels bookings services, tour packages and so on, that gives you the freedom to plan your trip in a well organized way that too at an affordable cost. So, what are you waiting for? Book the flights to Kovalam and hotels in Munnar, Kovalam, Trivandrum or Kochin and enjoy an unforgettable holidays with Karo Trip.
What to Eat in Kerala
• Kerala
Sadya, a lavish banana-leaf feast of 20+ dishes, served for festivals
• Karimeen
Pollichathu, pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf and grilled
• Appam
with Stew, soft rice pancakes with coconut milk vegetable stew
• Kerala
Prawn Curry, fiery, coconut-infused coastal seafood curry
• Puttu
and Kadala Curry, a hearty breakfast staple across Kerala
Frequently Asked Questions on Hotels in Kovalam, Trivandrum, Kochi and Munnar
Here are the most searched
questions by tourists and guests planning to visit Munnar, Kochi, Kovalam and
Trivandrum in Kerala:
What is the best time to visit
Munnar, Kochi, Kovalam and Trivandrum?
The best time to visit all four
Kerala destinations is from October to March. During this period, the weather
is pleasantly cool in Munnar (5°C–25°C) and comfortably warm in Kochi, Kovalam
and Trivandrum (22°C–33°C). This is also the peak tourist season, so book your
hotels on Karo Trip well in advance to secure the best rates. If you prefer
lush green scenery and fewer crowds, the post-monsoon period of
September–October is ideal. The monsoon months of June to August bring heavy
rainfall but offer a spectacular, verdant version of Munnar and significant
hotel discounts.
How far is Kovalam from
Trivandrum? Can I stay in one and visit the other?
Kovalam is approximately 16
kilometres from Trivandrum city centre — a comfortable 30 to 40-minute drive
depending on traffic. It is very common for travellers to stay in Kovalam and
take day trips into Trivandrum to visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum,
and other city attractions. Alternatively, those travelling on a tighter budget
can stay in Trivandrum (where hotels are generally more affordable) and visit
Kovalam Beach for the day. Karo Trip lists hotels in both destinations so you
can compare and decide based on your itinerary and budget.
Which hotels in Munnar are
best for a honeymoon?
Munnar is one of Kerala's most
romantic hill destinations and offers some of India's finest honeymoon resorts.
The top picks on Karo Trip for honeymooners include Windermere Estate for its
colonial-era romance and tea garden views, The Spice Tree for its intimate
boutique experience perched in the Western Ghats, and The Tall Trees for its
forest location with canopy walks. Most of these properties offer specially
curated honeymoon packages with candlelit dinners, Ayurvedic couple spa
treatments, and guided tea estate walks. Book directly through Karo Trip and
mention it is your honeymoon many hotels offer complimentary upgrades.
Are there budget-friendly
hotels in Kovalam and Kochi for backpackers?
Absolutely. Both Kovalam and
Kochi have excellent budget accommodation options alongside their luxury
properties. In Kovalam, budget guesthouses and beach lodges along Lighthouse
Beach offer rooms from as low as Rs. 800–1500 per night. In Kochi, Fort Kochi
has a charming range of heritage homestays, backpacker hostels, and budget
hotels, particularly around Princess Street and Burgher Street. Karo Trip lists
properties across all budget categories — use the price filter on karotrip.com
to find options that suit your travel budget.
Is Padmanabhaswamy Temple open
to all visitors? What should I know before visiting?
Padmanabhaswamy Temple in
Trivandrum is open to Hindu devotees only non-Hindus are respectfully requested
not to enter the main temple. All visitors must adhere to a strict dress code:
men must wear a dhoti and remain bare-chested (dhotis are available for rent at
the temple entrance), and women must wear a saree or salwar kameez western
clothing is not permitted. The temple is open from 3:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00
PM to 7:30 PM daily. Photography inside the temple complex is strictly
prohibited. The temple's treasury, discovered in 2011, is estimated to contain
gold and jewels worth over Rs. 1 lakh crore, making it the richest temple in
the world.
How many days do I need to
explore Munnar, Kochi, Kovalam and Trivandrum?
To do justice to all four
destinations without feeling rushed, plan for a minimum of 7 to 8 days. A
recommended itinerary would be: Day 1–2 in Kochi (Fort Kochi exploration,
Kathakali show, backwater cruise), Day 3–4 in Munnar (tea estates, Eravikulam
National Park, waterfalls), Day 5 en route through Thekkady or Alleppey if time
permits, and Day 6–7 split between Trivandrum and Kovalam (temples, museums,
beaches, Ayurveda). If you only have 5 days, prioritise Munnar for its unique
landscape and Kochi as your cultural base, with a 1-night stay in Kovalam for
the beach experience.
Can I book Ayurvedic treatment
packages along with hotel stays in Kerala?
Yes, this is one of Kerala's
great travel advantages. Many hotels in Munnar, Kovalam and Trivandrum offer
integrated Ayurvedic wellness packages where accommodation, treatment sessions,
and Ayurvedic meals are bundled together at a single price. Kovalam is particularly
renowned as Kerala's Ayurveda capital, with numerous licensed Ayurvedic resorts
offering traditional Panchakarma treatments, Abhyanga massage, Shirodhara, and
medicated steam baths. On Karo Trip, look for hotels tagged with 'Ayurvedic
Spa' or 'Wellness Package' in the amenities filter. Always choose
government-certified Ayurvedic centres and ensure the property employs
qualified Ayurvedic physicians.
Book Your Kerala Dream Holiday
on Karo Trip
Kerala is a destination that
stays with you long after you have left in the scent of the spice-laced air,
the memory of misty Munnar mornings, the sound of the Arabian Sea at Kovalam,
and the golden light of Trivandrum's ancient temples. Every corner of this
remarkable state has a story to tell, and every hotel we have listed on Karo
Trip has been chosen to make your experience of that story as comfortable,
memorable, and affordable as possible.
Read More
https://medium.com/@karotrip/top-5-holiday-destinations-in-india-and-the-best-hotels-to-stay-at-5896fb327218