Kerala Honeymoon

Lapped by the Arabian Sea on the south west coast of India, Kerala is laced with palm fringed rivers, framed by the verdant hills of the southern and western Ghats. It’s a land of glistening paddies and tropical forests, sweeping sands, secluded coves, lakes and lagoons and wildlife reserves twittering with bird song. On land or water, life moves at a gentle pace and a Kerala honeymoon is as close as it gets to paradise while offering plenty to see and do.

Kerala Beach Resorts

From north to south, Kerala is one long strip of silvery sand, only interrupted now and then by a rocky headland or a harbour. Days are for sun and sea, sailing in search of dolphins or enjoying a blissful Ayurvedic massage to relax after the flight. Nights are for dining al fresco on fresh seafood and watching the stars. When the sun sets over the water in Kovalam, fishermen haul in their nets to the rhythm of seafaring songs.

Among the most romantic escapes are the Travancore Heritage Seaside Resort offering honeymoon suites in independent villas with private pool and veranda and the luxurious Isola di Cocco in a coconut grove, surrounded by water between river and sea, with landscaped gardens, hammocks, private beach and for those who really want to get away, a sea facing Tree House with all modern comforts.

Kerala Backwaters

Traditional houseboats once laden with rice now cruise for pleasure along Kerala backwaters in a never ending maze of narrow channels, rivers and lakes. Cruises last one to several days and cater for groups or single couples in search of romance and solitude.Accommodation is basic but rewards are great, gliding past waterside villages and islands where kingfishers and golden orioles splash colour on the banks. There are open lagoons and shaded channels, fishing nets and boatmen selling bananas and fresh pineapple.

A cruise can be combined with a hotel stay at the Ashtamudi Resort where every room has a view over lake and garden. The hotel is in traditional style with spacious rooms and suites and the luxurious Kings Place where early booking is recommended. Boasting total relaxation in secluded surroundings, the Ashtamudi welcomes celebrities.

Kerala Hill Stations

Beyond the waterways, the verdant hills of the Ghats rise to 2695 metres at Anamudi Peak. It’s a rich and varied land from dense jungle, home to rare monkeys and elephants, to spice gardens fragrant with ginger and cardamom and lush tea plantations shimmering across the verdant slopes. There are spectacular waterfalls, rocky outcrops, wild orchids and flowering creepers and hill stations claiming idyllic settings and cool mountain air.

The Golden Hills of Ponmudi can be visited on a day trip from the coast. For longer stays, the hill station of Munnar is a popular choice. Perched at 1600 metres and above, at the confluence of three mountain streams, it has a sprinkling of hotels tucked in the trees and quiet trails for romantic walks.