Audley in KeralaSince the 1990s, Kerala has become a hugelypopular destination and is now well and trulyon the travellers' map, but it still retains itscharm and friendly atmosphere. We havedeveloped strong friendships in Kerala, from our drivers to homestay hosts, who all work hard to ensure that you have thebest experience. Our specialists have acomprehensive and passionate knowledge ofthe state and return time and again to revisitour favourite places and seek out newexperiences. We recommend you adopt theKeralan pace of life and take things slowly,including time to relax and enjoy the culturalhighlights as well as the more tranquil spots.AccommodationWe are happy to recommend a range ofhand chosen accommodation that variesfrom simple, clean guesthouses to eco-friendly resorts. With just a few exceptions,there are no truly luxurious hotels in Keralaand tourism has developed around relativelysmall traditional properties, built in thevernacular style and which blend seamlesslywith their environment. Nothing could becloser to this than a homestay, where well-travelled and educated hosts welcomeguests into their home as temporarymembers of the extended family. Colonial houses, whether in rural locations in the hills or conveniently situated in towns,have been renovated into heritage hotelsoffering period living with modern amenities.Elsewhere, certain features of traditionalKeralan tharavads, such as wooden pillars anddecorated doors with brass locks, have beenincorporated into the design of boutiquehotels. Spending the night on a privateconverted houseboat with your own crew is a unique experience and the perfect wayto explore the Backwaters. Find out more For suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in Kerala, please see pages 74-75.www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features, further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our South Indiaspecialists 01993 838 355?Fort CochinDiscover the influence of pastEuropean traders and marvel at the ingenious cantileveredChinese fishing nets.The BackwatersExplore life along theBackwaters by houseboat,manned by your own crew and cook.MunnarRolling hills of neatly clipped tea plantations and old colonial bungalows.321Western GhatsCool hills and spectacular viewsbeg to be explored on foot.ElephantsWild elephant can be spotted in Periyar's jungles, or spend the day getting to know adomesticated elephant on theKanam Estate.BeachesPalm-fringed beaches along theMalabar Coast are perfect forpure relaxation.465HomestaysThe concept of staying with anIndian family was first developedin Kerala and hosts continue tooffer guests a warm welcome.AyurvedaTry a traditional holistic herbalmassage to relax, or follow acourse of treatment forimproved health and well-being. CookeryLearn the secrets of deliciousKeralan cuisine with a cookerylesson or demonstration.Performing artsEnjoy the ritualistic and colourful dance forms ofKathakali and Theyyam attemples and arts centres.Kerala63123456Tea pickers, MunnarWild Asian elephant

OLDHARBOURHOTEL, COCHINOld Harbour is a charming boutique hotel thathas retained its original Portuguese and Dutchinfluences and offers good value for money.Designed and revived with the help of arestoration architect, this contemporary 13 roomheritage property, located close to Fort Cochin'sharbour front, is arguably one of Cochin's moststylish. The architecture and modest decor iscomplemented by the eclectic mix of modernIndian and Sri Lankan art, displayed throughoutthe property. The large swimming pool in thegarden is perfect for cooling off after a day'ssightseeing, and the restaurant is a wonderfulplace to try some freshly caught seafood.MALABARHOUSE, COCHINCochin's first boutique hotel, Malabar House isideal for those who want to be in the centre ofFort Cochin. Guests can enjoy the evening'sactivities on the nearby parade ground, wherecricket and football are played with enthusiasm.Built in 1755, the rooms are now brightlydecorated and furnished with local antiques andart. Some of the suites have private terraces orbalconies. There is a small pool and the romanticcourtyard restaurant is noted for its dishes, whichcombine European and Keralan cuisines. The winelounge is the first of its kind and showcases theemergence of Indian wines. This property offersgood value for money. BRUNTONBOATYARD, COCHINWith a superb location in the heart of Cochin'sold town, Brunton Boatyard is one of the fewhotels in Fort Cochin where guests can enjoydirect views of the harbour from each of the 22guest rooms and the communal areas. You canswim in the large pool while watching everythingfrom tiny wooden fishing craft to ocean-goingtankers pass by. The hotel is perfectly placed toexplore this historical city on foot and therestaurant has an excellent reputation for its local cuisine and seafood. CochinThe city of Cochin (Kochi) lies on islands andpromontories that sit almost in the centre ofKerala's coastline, and is a very pleasant entrypoint to the state for visitors. The Portuguese,Dutch and British wrestled for control of thisregion for over 400 years and each left hugearchitectural and cultural legacies. The colonialinfluence is most evident in Fort Cochin. It's herethat you will find streets lined with spice traders'mansions and tea brokers' bungalows, St FrancisChurch, Santa Cruz Basilica, Paradesi Synagogueand the iconic Chinese fishing nets which takecentre stage on the waterfront. A stroll along the front where fishermen show their daily catch, a harbour cruise at sunset and attending aperformance of traditional Kathakali dance-dramaare all recommended. 64Fishermen dividing their catch, south of CochinOld Harbour Hotel, CochinMalabar House, CochinPool at Brunton Boatyard, Cochin