Hotels in Kerala Overlooking the Backwaters

Planning a Kerala vacation? Bet a stay in houseboats would be on top of your mind. But wait, why check into a houseboat when you can experience much more staying in hotels instead? Check out these hotels in Kerala that offer mesmerizing views of the backwaters and more.

Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort

Known for its enviable location overlooking the Vembanad Lake, this backwater hotel in Kerala offers some stunning scenic views. All the 27 rooms and suites are lake-facing and exhibit tastefully designed wooden décor and tiled roofs, giving the guests an authentic feel of Kerala. The staff is particularly friendly and helpful.

What makes it special: Dip into their infinity pool overlooking the lake, or book a relaxing session at the Ayurvedic spa. For the adventurous kinds, the hotel can arrange bicycle rides or water sports. Baby-sitting facility is also available on request.

Location: Janasakthi Road, Kayippuram, Muhamma, Alappuzha

Tariff: INR 3,308*

Distance from Kochi airport: 73 km (1 hr 53 min)

Distance from Alappuzha railway station: 19.6 km (37 min)

Nearby attractions: Alappuzha Beach (18 km)

Book Your Stay at Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort

Poovar Island Resort

Bordered by the Arabian Sea on the east, the majestic Ghats on the west, and surrounded by backwaters, this hotel in Kerala is like a dream. Stunning views, coupled with excellent services, delicious food and friendly staff make the stay at this Kerala backwater hotel an amazing experience.

What makes it special: The only way to reach this luxury hotel in Kerala is via private boats owned by the resort. They have 86 cottages, both on land and water, each charming in its own way. Attached private balconies allow you to indulge in fishing, even as you drown in the incredible views surrounding you.

Location: Pozhiyoor, Poovar, Trivandrum

Tariff: INR 2,873*

Distance from Thiruvananthapuram airport: 30 km (1 hr)

Distance from Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station: 30 km (1 hr)

Nearby attractions: Poovar boating (2.4 km), Lighthouse (18.2 km), Lighthouse beach (19.1 km)

Book Your Stay at Poovar Island Resort

Backwater Ripples

Lazily spread across 10 acres and overlooking the Vembanad Lake, stands this Kerala backwater hotel. Following the traditional architecture of the state, all the 34 cottages offer exquisite views of the lake, and open up into small, beautiful gardens. Book lovers can head for the library, while outdoor enthusiasts can pick up a bicycle and pedal their way through winding roads lined with coconut groves and paddy fields.

What makes it special: The hotel offers free cruises every evening for all its residents, topped with special cultural performances, mostly dance, that give you a taste of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. The Ayurvedic spa here is a must-try.

Location: Nazerath Church Road, Kumarakom, Kottayam

Tariff: INR 5000*

Distance from Kochi airport: 83 km (2 hr 13 min)

Distance from Kottayam railway station: 14 km (34 min)

Nearby attractions: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (5 km), Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple (23 km)

Book Your Stay at Backwater Ripples

Haveli Backwater Resort

Located right opposite the Boat Jetty bus station, this Kerala hotel overlooks the Punnamda Lake and is surrounded by untouched, tropical greenery, accompanied by soothing silence. A perfect place for relaxation, you can easily soak in their luxurious spa or simply while away time in their clean, beautiful swimming pool, where the friendly staff can even serve you food.

What makes it special: Built in a typical Rajasthani architectural style overlooking the backwaters, this hotel in Kerala is a unique combination of west meeting south. The mouth-watering sea food at their barbeque center is another major attraction.

Location: Finishing Point Alappuzha

Tariff: INR2,502

Distance from Kochi airport: 2 hours (84 km)

Distance from Alappuzha railway station: 15 minutes (4.9 km)

Nearby attractions: Nehru Trophy Fishing Point (400 m), Revi Karuna Karan Memorial Museum (2.4 km), Alappuzha Beach (4.1 km)

Book Your Stay at Haveli Backwater Resort

*Prices may vary