Back to Listing

South India photoblog: From Kerala's Backwaters to old colonial Cochin

In Kerala we journeyed from the Backwaters of Kumarakom and Alleppey to the palm-fringed beaches of Marari, and ended at the colonial heritage city of Cochin, home to Portuguese, Dutch, Arabic and British traders at various times in its history. We have inspected all the good hotels in the region (43 hotels at our last count since arriving in South India) and eaten many delicious seafood curries. Here are a few photos of our Keralan adventure...

IMG_8116
The quirky turquoise houseboat at Privacy, part of the Malabar Escapes group of properties, set in a secluded spot on Lake Vembanad
IMG_8309 2
Lake view swimming pool at Privacy
IMG_8335
There are thousands of kettuvallom houseboats (rice barges) in the Backwaters and they are the perfect vessels to explore these interconnected canals, rivers and lakes as a half day activity. Some people feel they want a few nights sleeping on a traditional houseboat, but once night falls you cannot see your surroundings and the reality of it is often less romantic than assumed
IMG_8366
You will see ladies washing clothes in the river, children playing and couples fishing outside their homes. Life has changed little here through the ages and it is extremely idyllic and peaceful
IMG_8364 2
Can you spot the kingfisher? The backwater's lush landscape attracts a huge variety of birds - from egrets, terns, kingfishers, darters, cormorants and other migratory birds
Sit back, unwind and observe local life playing out as you drift by waterfront churches, temples and villages
Sit back, unwind and observe local life playing out as you drift by waterfront churches, temples and villages
IMG_8319
Lunch on board the houseboat is freshly prepared by a fantastic cook
IMG_8411
The kitchen is small but the feast was immense! It was utterly delicious
IMG_8189
The sun falls over Lake Vembanad. In the distance you can see what are known as Chinese fishing nets, which have become ubiquitous with the Malabar coast
IMG_7819 2
The 'Meandering Pool Villas' at Kumarakom Lake Resort where you can step straight from your villa into a curvaceous, 250-metre long swimming pool
IMG_7974 2
Marari Beach Resort is the perfect place to kick off your shoes and relax with your feet in the sand. It's very sweet and simple, and we consistently get glowing feedback from our clients who stay here
IMG_8043 2
Ultra luxury arrives in the Backwaters in the form of Carnoustie Beach Resort & Ayurveda Spa on Marari Beach. It is a brand new property with forty villas of exceptional quality, each with their own pool, lavish bathrooms and a spot-on fusion of contemporary luxury and traditional Kerala architecture
IMG_9028
At a Kathakali performance in Cochin. Arrive half and hour before it begins to watch the performers preparing their make-up on stage
IMG_9075
Kathakali is a classic Indian dance-drama originating in Kerala, known for its elaborate costumes, make up and emotive facial expressions
IMG_8838
A trading port since Roman times, Cochin is a fascinating yet supremely relaxed city. It has an atmospheric colonial vibe and a slow seaside pace - particularly the Old Town, where most of the hotels are. ‘Jew Town’ is an area of the Old Town with a mix of old shops, warehouses, spice auction rooms and a beautiful Jewish synagogue
IMG_8750
Fresh catch straight off the boat at Cochin harbour
IMG_8652
The Old Harbour Hotel in Cochin is a charming boutique hotel, set in a 300-year old building built in the Dutch style of architecture with hints of Portuguese influence
IMG_9198 2
Handmade tiles and traditional Keralan carvings at Chittoor Kottaram. The house was originally built by the Rajah of Cochin, Rama Verma, and is now run as a boutique CGH property sleeping 6 people for exclusive use
IMG_6374
Hello breakfast! Brunton's Boatyard serve a mean Masala Dosa. The hotel itself is excellent, too - a Cochin favourite of ours, set right on the harbour

Next and final stop on our South India research tour: Hyderabad, to stay at the Taj Falaknuma Palace...



Client Testimonials

I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences