Boasting of long coastlines, verdant paddy fields, serene backwaters, and pristine hill stations, Kerala is a treasure-trove of places to visit and experiences and activities to indulge in. And what better way to explore “God’s Own Country” than by spending some time at the many quaint and tranquil homestays here?
Exuding the feeling of a home away from home, and seamlessly interweaving the coziness and comforts of a home within the traditional structures and ambiance of Kerala, homestays are some of the best ways to spend a holiday in this paradise. Whether it is a Wayanad homestay, or a homestay in Alleppey, Kumarakom, Munnar or even Trivandrum, you can always find one that suits your preferences.
Furthermore, these homestay destinations also cater to tourists who wish to pay a visit to some of the unexplored but beautiful tourist attractions in and around Kerala. Brimming with the charm of the quaint towns, and stunning sceneries, the following destinations are some of the best if you are looking for top-notch homestays in Kerala.
– Wayanad:
Staying in a Wayanad homestay is one of the best ways to enjoy your holiday in this stunning region. Also known as the Green Paradise, Wayanad lies safely within the mountains of the majestic Western Ghats, with the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary acting as its backdrop in the east. The homestays here offer a wide range of amenities and facilities, ranging from private terrace and garden facilities to ensuite bathrooms, campfires, private chefs, and more.
One of the highlights of staying in a Wayanad homestay is a memorable safari in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can catch rare sights of elephants, tigers, egrets, and numerous other animals. Many homestays, such as the Dhanagiri Homestay, Meenmutty Heights Homestay, Spice Garden Homestay, and others also offer private sightseeing and plantation tours to attractions nearby. You can also soak in serene views of the surrounding mountains, coffee, and spice plantations from your homestay.
– Cochin:
Otherwise known as Kochi, Cochin is located in the southwestern region of the coastal state of Kerala. An important port site, Cochin is known for its colonial bungalows from the bygone eras, heritage structures and Portuguese influences. The home stays here mostly consist of traditional buildings owned by families, with elegant décor, huge rooms, detailed furniture and an overall opulence.
Located quite close to the major attractions like Fort Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets and other places, most of the homestays in Cochin also boast of lip-smacking local seafood dishes and other delicacies that you can gorge onto during your stay. These homestays are also known for their comfort and affordability, in addition to soothing and peaceful surroundings. Some of the best homestays in Cochin consist of the Old Courtyard Homestay, Elegant Island Homestay, and The Pod Cochin Homestay, among others, where you can not only find warm and hospitable hosts, but great amenities, activities and more.
– Alleppey:
Officially known as Alappuzha, Alleppey is also considered to be the Venice of the East, and is famous for its houseboat cruises, rustic backwaters of Kerala and a tranquil network of lagoons and canals. It is also one of the best destinations in Kerala for homestays. From traditional heritage houses and opulent bungalows to houseboats and even functioning apartments, you can find a wide range of homestays here.
Ranking amongst one of the oldest planned towns in India, Alleppey also boasts of many sightseeing attractions that you can pay a visit to during your stay in a homestay here. In addition to sea-facing rooms and private balconies, some of the main amenities that you can enjoy in the homestays in Alleppey include barbecue facilities, private boating cruises, local home cooked food and more. Some of the famous homestays in Alleppey include the Venice Castle, Ayana’s Homestay and Kurialacherry House, among others.
– Munnar:
Tucked amidst the Western Ghats in Kerala, Munnar is one of the most famous hill stations in South India, and is known for its fragrant tea and spice plantations, cool weather and verdant natural vistas. An erstwhile resort for the elites during the British Raj period, Munnar is surrounded by rolling hills, the beautiful Eravikulam National Park and other attractions.
The homestays here are particularly known for their inclusion of adventure activities and amenities, from camping and bonfires, to trekking, nature trails, jeep safaris and more. Some homestays also organise tours within the Eravikulam, where you can catch sights of the endangered mountain goat Nilgiri Tahr, along with other animals. Most homestays here also offer stunning views of the Lakkam Waterfalls and the Anamudi Peak from their property. Some of the best homestays in Munnar include the Castillo De Woods Homestay, Tea Gardens Cottage, Royal Mist Homestay, Arabian Nights Homestay, etc.
– Kumarakom:
Located on the shores of the Vembanad Lake in the backwaters of Kerala, Kumarakom is one of the most tranquil and offbeat homestay destinations in the region. Known for its serene canals, houseboats and the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, this hamlet is the abode of small, cosy and comfortable homestays, where you can spend your days relaxing and soaking in the scenery. You can also stay in houseboats here, which are managed by families and offer exotic views of the lush green landscapes and serene backwaters.
Whether it is private attached bathrooms, complimentary internet facilities, comfortable rooms or even homecooked Keralan food, the homestays in Kumarakom have it all, in addition to friendly hosts and amazing service. You can also enjoy local sightseeing to nearby attractions like the bird sanctuary, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Pathiramanal Island, etc. during your stay here. Some of the best homestays in Kumarakom include the Backwater Heritage Homestay, Aqualillies Water Front Heritage Homestay and Coconut Creek Homestay, along with others.
