Points South

Individual Tours to India and Sri Lanka

SOUTHERN INDIA – KERALA WESTERN GHATS HOTELS

The Points South Point of View – If you wish to escape the humidity of the coast a visit to the cool green Western Ghat mountains is recommended. The hill stations offer a glimpse of a bygone era with lush tea, coffee, and cardamom plantation. For wildlife we recommend the Wayanad and Nagarhole areas in Northern Kerala in contrast to the Periyar area.The number of tiger and leopard sightings in Nagarhole National park has recently increased.

Spice Village – A CGH earth owned property, Spice Village is located on the edge of Kumilly town, close to the main entrance to Periyar National park.

It is set in 12 acres, and has a strong emphasis on wildlife and the environment, growing spice trees and an organic vegetable garden.

Many birds and a pack of Nilgiri langur monkeys are frequent visitors, and there is a resident naturalist and wildlife centre. With a lovely old bar, Ayurvedic spa and good pool.

Hills and Hues – Situated four km from the town on the border with Tamil Nadu, the hotel offers superb views.

The accommodation is in cottages with balconies to enjoy the views. Excellent walking from the property.

Windermere Estate – Situated on a cardamom estate with outstanding views. The accommodation is arranged in two storey cottages around the grounds.

Excellent walks around the estate, with good bird watching. The linen at Windermere is embroidered by women from the planter’s family.

Dewalokham – Dewalokham is a fully sustainable organic farm situated in the foothills and set on the banks of the river Kannadipuzha, a clean river in which you can swim. Josh and Sinta are the owners.

A cookery demonstration is held in the evening using the farm’s fruit and vegetables. The spice garden and farm are run on organic principles.

The River House – The property is nestled in a jungle and a rubber plantation, in a relatively unexplored region on the banks of River Periyar. The property has the feel of a home and is perfect for guests who want a private break in a solitary environment and are nature enthusiasts.

When at River house, you can go for walks by the river, go kayaking, canoeing, rafting…. fishing with a local rod or angling, look at water birds.

Pepper Trail – Located on a coffee plantation high in the Western Ghat hills, surrounded by peace and nature. Pepper Trail has a variety of accommodation from the Heritage bungalow, now arranged as two spacious suites, to tree houses set amidst the forest canopy with birds and monkeys as neighbours.

The main reception and dining area are also elevated. Enjoy walking or trekking around the estate or relax by the infinity pool.

KERALA – Coast HOTELS

The Points South Point of View – The coastline of Kerala runs the entire length of the state 580 Kms. The Malabar region in the north is still unspoilt with long sand beaches and several 17th century forts built by the British East India Company to protect their trading interests.

In Southern Kerala the cliffs rise steeply with the hotels located above, access to the beaches often involves a steep walk.

The Indian beaches are public places used by the local fishermen. The beaches immediately south of Trivandrum in the Kovalam area have long been a popular destination, leading to over development with many resort style hotels, this area has now lost much of the traditional Keralan character. We recommend the Marari area close to Alleppey (Alappuzha), this is still relatively unspoilt. If you are seeking a much quieter retreat the beaches of Northern Kerala and Tamil Nadu remain undeveloped with miles of sandy beaches. Care needs to be taken when swimming in the Arabian sea and the Bay of Bengal as the sea can be rough, life guards are provided by some of the hotels, as a consequence of the sea conditions water sports are not generally provided.

North Kerala

Neeleshwar Hermitage – Situated on an un-spoilt beach with a large infinity pool gazing over the lagoon towards the ocean, Neeleshwar Hermitage has 16 traditional style cottages.

The sea view cottages are very spacious with beautifully appointed with open bathrooms and a veranda looking towards the lagoon and the sea. The property has a strong environmental policy, with no plastic.

Marari Beach Resort – Part of the CGH group, Marari Beach is a delightful resort set in substantial grounds with direct access to a lovely beach. The accommodation is in traditional style cottages with open shower gardens. There is an excellent Ayurvedic spa, large swimming pool, main restaurant, fish restaurant, and live traditional music in the evenings, a resident naturalist, and cookery lessons. It is well worth getting up early one morning to watch the local fishermen landing their catch on the beach; there is also a busy fish market nearby at Marari village. I also recommend a walk around the gardens with the naturalist; he is fantastic at spotting birds. Bicycles can be taken to explore the country roads and nearby temple.

KERALA City HOTELS AND HOME STAYS

The Points South Point of View – Indian cities can be overwhelming and exhausting places with traffic congestion making journey times frustratingly long. The smaller cities such as Mysore in Karnataka, Cochin in Kerala and Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu are very rewarding offering excellent culture, historical buildings and shopping opportunities.

Brunton Boatyard – Occupying a prominent position on the waterfront, Brunton is built in a traditional style with a long airy verandah around a central courtyard. It is part of the distinguished CGH group. Each room has a balcony overlooking the sea, providing a constant theatre of local ferries and fishermen. The rooms are stylishly furnished with Indian style bedsteads and great bathrooms. There is a lovely pool on the waterfront. Breakfast is taken on the waterfront terrace with a roof-top restaurant for evenings. Brunton Boatyard also provides a sunset cruise around the harbour every evening.

Old Harbour Hotel – The Old Harbour hotel is a beautifully restored 18th Century Dutch colonial style building.

The original charm and character of the building has been retained and enhanced by delightful gardens and swimming pool.

The rooms are furnished in a traditional Indian style with contemporary art. There is an excellent restaurant, with tables set in the garden alongside live traditional music in the evenings.

The hotel looks across to the Chinese fishing nests, a central location for exploring Fort Cochin.

Malabar House – Overlooking the parade ground, this elegant building dates back to 1755. Malabar House is part of the Relais en Chateaux group, and was opened in 1996 as Cochin’s first boutique hotel. The décor seamlessly combines traditional and contemporary design.

Each room has been individually styled with either a balcony or roof terrace. The rooms centre around a frangipani filled courtyard where meals are taken, and the restaurant is one of the best in Cochin. There is also a wine and tapas bar, which feature an interesting art gallery. Malabar house is an oasis of calm in a central location on Fort Cochin.

Eighth Bastion – Also part of the renowned CGH group and with a Dutch seafaring influence, this stylish small boutique hotel has been built in a contemporary style. It is located in a very convenient location by the parade ground.

The large rooms are decorated in a contemporary style and have spacious bathrooms. Each room has a balcony, and some have a sea view.There is an Indonesian themed restaurant, and a courtyard garden with a pool.

The Secret Garden – Tucked away in a quiet residential area, this delightful traditional Keralan house has been carefully restored by the Icelandic owner.

It has five rooms in the main house. It is furnished well, with elegant and traditional furniture leading onto the veranda. The courtyard garden has a swimming pool. A peaceful haven after a busy days’ sightseeing.

Francis Residence – Mr Francis ran several good hotels in Fort Cochin, and in 2016 he opened his own homestay with his wife.

Centrally located with a small patio garden, it is conveniently located for exploring the Fort area.

KERALA – Backwaters HOTELS AND HOME STAYS

The Points South Point of View – Peace, privacy and the proximity of water exists on the backwaters for however long you wish. A combination of a night on a houseboat and a few nights overlooking the lake is a perfect way to relax at the end of a tour if you are not keen on the beach. Exploring the smaller canals in a canoe can be very interesting. Travelling the backwaters on a houseboat will provide a fascinating slow motion view of Keralan village life, there are many splendid temples and churches to observe, also a perfect environment for bird watching. Lake Vembanad is India’s longest lake (96.5 kilometres) several excellent resorts and home stays are located on the shores with some accessible only by boat.

Coconut Lagoon, Kottayam – Set on an island overlooking Lake Vembanad. The main buildings are crafted from the remains of Keralan Palaces, with cottages dotted amongst the gardens where tethered Vechur cows graze.

It has a ool, ayurvedic spa, yoga, bird watching with resident naturalist and cookery lessons. There is also a small farm and butterfly garden. Every evening there is a sunset boat cruise onto the lake. Part of the renowned CGH group.

Lakes and Lagoons House Boats – The converted rice barges were originally used for transporting rice and spices along the Backwaters. The boats are made from traditional materials but offer surprisingly spacious accommodation. Lakes and Lagoons operate a fleet of twenty-five boats from just outside Allepey.

They have an excellent reputation. The boat is exclusive to you during your stay apart from a three-man crew (captain, cook and driver) the boats all have A/C and flushing loos. A backwater cruise is considered by many to be the highlight of a holiday in Kerala.

Vismaya – Vismaya is situated on the shores of lake Vembanad, with the lake on two sides of the property. It is about one and a half hours’ drive from Cochin. A traditional Keralan wooden villa with only two bedrooms. The property is beautifully run by Vinod, the manager, there is a country boat for trips on the lake. The villa is situated with the lake on two sides in complete privacy with a pool, and large garden. Each room has a large open bath garden. There is a boat to explore the lake and meals are taken on the verandah. The property can be taken as a whole for total privacy, perfect for honeymoons.

Ameya – A small eco-hotel, Ameya opened in 2016, and the property has been constructed of local materials with a respect to the surroundings. It is made up of two private cottages and one suite, and is run entirely on renewable solar energy.

The cottages all have a verandah overlooking the lake, there is a pool and yoga is practiced. A motorized boat can taken to explore the smaller canals.

Kayal Island Retreat – Located on an island on Lake Vembanad, about 45 minutes from Cochin airport and 30 minutes from Cochin city. This peaceful retreat has only four rooms, set in two cottages around the gardens.

There is an open dining area by the lake, an open sitting room and Ayurvedic massage room. There is also a boat for trips on the lake and village walks to explore the local community.

Karnataka – Countryside HOTELS

The Points South Point of View – The countryside of Karnataka contains many historical gems, which you can still enjoy as an explorer without the crowds. The contrast between rural Karnataka and the vibrant capital of Bangalore is stark – within minutes of leaving the city you enter a land with red earth and vast boulders. Bullock carts carrying loads of sugar cane trundle along the rural roads. The interior was the seat of several dynasties, whose cities now lie in ruins. Hampi the capital of the Vijayanagar empire in the 14th Century, being the best example. The exquisite temples at Belur and Halebid remain fine examples of the Hoysala empire. They are situated between Hampi and Mysore.

Evolve Back, Hampi – Built in the style of the Vijaynagara empire to reflect the architecture of the ancient kingdom of Hampi, now a UNESCO world heritage site. The superbly designed property, the latest by the renowned Evolve Back group, sits in thirty acres of countryside, close to Hampi.

The thirty-six spacious rooms are beautifully designed, and furnished in a traditional style with vast bathrooms. Two restaurants and two pools, one for children.

Evolve Back, Kabini – Evolve Back is located on the banks of the river Kabini, built in a traditional local style. There is a resident naturalist, who will guide you round some of the three hundred species of birds recorded in the park, and in summer many elephants congregate at the dam as the waters recede.

Clients have been fortunate to see leopards and tigers here. Jeep safaris and boat safaris are taken twice a day from the resort. Evolve Back is one of my favourite properties in South India, well run and set in a superb location.

The Serai, Kabini – The Serai is located overlooking the Kabini river, within fifteen minutes’ drive of the park. There is a resident naturalist, and safaris are taken by boat and jeep. Everyone now goes to Jungle Lodge, five minutes from Serai – the jungle safaris are arranged from here.

The property has an open plan restaurant, a large pool and good spa. Walks can be taken with their naturalist to the surrounding paddy fields for bird watching.

Karnataka WESTERN GHATS HOTELS AND HOME STAYS

The Points South Point of View – If you wish to escape the humidity of the coast, a visit to the cool green Western Ghat mountains is recommended. The hill stations offer a glimpse of a bygone era with lush tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations. For wildlife the parks at Nagarhole, Kabini and Bandipur are excellent, tiger sightings have greatly increased at Kabini Park, where boat safaris can be enjoyed on the Kabini dam, this is excellent for birdlife. The famous Nilgiri hill railway runs from Ooty to the plains of Kerala below.

The Serai, Bandipur – Located near Bandipur National park, this is an excellent place for birdwatching. The resort has stunning views towards the Nilgiri hills. The accommodation is arranged in traditional style lodges with beautifully designed interiors, and all the rooms have a balcony. There is a good pool and an Ayurvedic spa in which to relax after a busy day enjoying the countryside. There is also a resident naturalist who is an expert bird spotter.

Tranquil Resort – A former plantation house that has been beautifully restored, Tranquil is run by the Day family to provide nine spacious rooms. There are well-tended gardens with a pool, hammocks and peaceful areas to sit and read. There are also lovely walks around the plantation with good bird watching, and hill top drives for which afternoon tea can be arranged. Visit the coffee plantation and processing warehouse next door. Good home cooked food and a great atmosphere.

Evolve Back, Coorg – Evolve Back is situated on a large coffee estate, with spacious cottages located around the grounds, the Cauvery river runs through the estate. There is a resident naturalist, visit the coffee processing sheds and walk around the estate. There is also a nearby golf course, the property has two restaurants, a library, Ayurvedic spa, and good shop.

Karnataka – City HOTELS

The Points South Point of View – The manageable city of Mysore offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities, The ornate Maharaja’s Palace built in 1897 is illuminated on a Sunday evenings. The Deveraja Market is fascinating, with stalls selling spices, fruit, perfumes and homemade joss sticks. The government silk factory can be visited also the small railway museum.

A drive to the top of Chamundi Hill in the evening is worthwhile, half way is the giant Nandi bull, at the top the Hindu Temple with a superb view of the city below. Close by is Sriringapatnam, with the remains of a 15th-century fort. Tipu Sultan’s Summer palace built in 1784, contains superb frescoes of battle scenes with the French, British and Mysore armies, nearby The Gumbaz is the family mauseoleum and burial place of Tipu Sultan. The beautifully preserved Kasava Hoysala temple (1268) at Somnathapur is about an hour’s drive. The Ranganathittu bird sanctuary is 5ks from Srirangapatnam, here you can explore by boat and watch the crocodiles basking in the sun.

The Royal Orchid Metropole Hotel – This impressive building was built in the 1920’s by the Maharaja of Mysore to accommodate his British guests. The building retains an atmosphere of grandeur, with lovely spacious rooms around a central courtyard. The garden has a small pool. There is a restaurant, and in the evening a tandoori restaurant in the courtyard. The Metropole is located conveniently in the town, just a short walk from the railway station and local markets.

Gitanjali Farm – Located in a peaceful spot at the foot of Chamundi Hill, ten minutes’ drive from the town. This charming home stay has four good sized bedrooms all leading off a verandah. The rooms are simply furnished with en-suite bathrooms, and there is a peaceful garden. The food is excellent, with home-made pickles and jams. Yamuna and her family are terrific hosts.

Taj West End, Bangalore – The Taj was originally opened in 1912 by the Spencer family. This lovely Heritage building has the atmosphere of a country club and is now part of the Taj group. Adjacent to the racecourse and golf club, the Taj offers a peaceful sanctuary in this busy city. With 90 rooms, a pool, a spa and tennis courts.

The Taj, Bangalore – The Taj is a stylish newly opened hotel located opposite the main terminal.

Tamil Nadu WESTERN GHATS HOTELS

The Points South Point of View – The Hill stations in the Western Ghats offer cooler temperatures and stunning scenery. The famous Nilgiri Hill Railway runs from Ooty to the plains of Kerala below. Perfect for walking and bird watching.

Teanest – This popular home stay is located on the family tea plantation, in the Nilgiri hills, with good walking and mountain biking from the property. Also visit the local tea factory.

Rajakkad Estate – Located in the Palani hills on a coffee estate, no TV, no room service, no pool – just peace, nature and bird song. Delicious home cooked meals are served in the courtyard. There is an excellent library with an abundance of Indian nature books. The Keralan palace was transported from Kerala and re-assembled in this beautiful location in Tamil Nadu. The seven rooms are spacious and set around a central courtyard. Located at 1000 ft above sea level, the climate is pleasant. The drive up through the Western Ghats to Rajakkad is stunning, but narrow and twisty.

Tamil Nadu Coast HOTEL

Andaman Islands  – The Andaman Islands lie in the bay of Bengal between India and Thailand. There are few places left in the world with untouched coral and thick forest that still runs down to the white sand beaches. The resort is set in the jungle thickets beside a beautiful white sand beach, called beach No 7 – one of the best beaches in Asia. Havelock island is part of the Ritchie archipelago, with excellent diving. January to March are the best months.

Tamil Nadu City HOTELS

The Points South Point of View – Pondicherry was once the capital of the French colonies in India; in 1954 the town was handed over to the Indian government and became a union territory. The town still retains a Gallic flavour with the colonial buildings, particularly in the old French quarter. The police wear a traditional French style uniform. The restaurants offer an interesting combination of Indian and French food. The town overlooks the Bay of Bengal with a long promenade. An excellent place for shopping and culture.

Maison Perumal – Part of the renowned CGH Earth group, this interesting 10-roomed property was once a trading house set in the Tamil quarter. With a homely feel and good restaurant, this makes an excellent base to explore the town on foot or bicycle. The rooms are all arranged around a central courtyard.

Palais De Mahe – Probably the best hotel in Pondy, Palais de Mahe is part of CGH Earth group, located in the heart of the French Quarter and just a short walk away from the Promenade. The spacious rooms furnished in a traditional style all lead onto a large verandah with chairs to relax in. The inviting swimming pool – a rare find in Pondicherry – is located in the courtyard. Meals are served on the roof top restaurant with views to the sea.

The Heritage Madurai – Spread over 17 acres of grounds, formerly the British Madurai club, the Heritage provides a peaceful retreat from the Temple area. The property was built in the 1920s and originally renovated by the renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa in the 1970s. Accommodation is in spacious low built villas, some with private pools. The pool is constructed to resemble a temple tank; there is a restaurant, coffee shop, and spa. 15ks from Madurai airport.

La Villa – a restored (by two French architects ) heritage villa, located in the French quarter, there is a courtyard where meals are taken and pool. The rooms are light and spacious. The restaurant has an excellent reputation serving “Frindian” food. Within easy walking distance of the beach and excellent local shops.

Gratitude – Gratitude is a guest house situated in the French quarter. The property has been carefully restored around the charming courtyard. There is also a roof terrace. Gratitude encourages writers and artists to stay for long periods. There is an air of peace at the property, yet in a very convenient location. Cookery lessons can be taken. Note, they only serve breakfast here.

Taj Connemara – One of South India’s oldest hotels, known for its history of elegant balls and extravagant dinner parties for the elite of Madras. The walls are adorned with centuries-old photos, the two restaurants offers a selection of recipes from menus of the past and the cocktails are infused with ethnic ingredients – touches that complete the heritage hotel’s colonial charm. There is a pool, a gym and a spa.

Tamil Nadu- Countryside HOTELS

The Points South Point of View –The Chettinad region consists of 75 villages occupying a coastal plain. Home of the famous Chettiars, wealthy traders who made their fortunes selling cloth in Burma and the Far East. The Chettiars bought back hardwoods to incorporate in the construction of their elaborate mansions, along with marble from Italy and ironwork from Britain. Many fell on hard times after the second world war and many of the mansions are now hardly used and neglected, their antique contents sold in Mumbai. The area contains some superb examples of Art Deco architecture. This area is as yet undiscovered.

Mantra Koodam – Mantra Koodam is located in the countryside, about 30 minutes from Tanjore on the banks of the River Veera Chooza. It is part of the renowned CGH group. The cottages have been built in a traditional style around the gardens. There is a pool and cookery lessons. Peaceful and convenient for visiting temple towns of Tanjore and Kumbakanom.

Visalam, Kanadukathan – Visalam is a superb mansion built in the 1930’s; the property has been meticulously restored by the CGH earth group and retains some lovely original features such as Italian marble pillars and ironwork from Birmingham.

The 15 rooms are light and airy with modern bathrooms, and there is a delightful garden with a good-sized pool. Dining takes place is four locations depending on the time of day.

Please contact Jane Points to discuss your specific holiday requirements.

Mob: +44 (0)780 106 3335 email info@points-south.co.uk