The first boutique hotel in Kerala with an almost cult status - a place to relax in luxury with beautiful surroundings
Location: This luxurious hotel can be found in the southern state of Kerala, nestled in historic Fort Cochin, The Malabar House lies within easy walking distance of landmarks such as the Chinese Fishing Nets, St Francis Church, and the Jewish Synagogue. Its central location gives guests direct access to the rich tapestry of Cochin’s colonial past and vibrant local life.
Rooms: The hotel comprises 17 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated to reflect The Malabar House’s identity as both heritage and art hotel. Whether you stay in a Deluxe Suite, Roof Garden Suite or the signature Malabar Suite, you can expect en suite bathrooms, private verandas, terraces or garden sit-outs, and interiors adorned with antique and contemporary objects d’art. All rooms are air-conditioned, with minibars, Wi-Fi, safe deposit lockers, and a décor that favours stone floors and a carefully curated colour palette.
Amenities: The Malabar House balances intimacy and full service. Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool set in a tranquil courtyard and the Purespa, which offers Ayurvedic and therapeutic massages across two floors of dedicated treatment rooms. Yoga sessions are held each morning, with additional private or group classes available on request.
Dining at Malabar Junction, the hotel’s signature restaurant, brings together Kerala’s rich culinary traditions with light Mediterranean influences, focusing on fresh local produce and organic ingredients where possible. The Divine Wine Lounge & Tapas Bar offers a relaxed setting for drinks, small plates, and occasional art exhibitions overlooking the courtyard. Other facilities include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, currency exchange, laundry, car hire, bicycles for guest use, and regular showcases of local and international art at the lounge space.
Activities: While The Malabar House itself is a tranquil retreat, there’s plenty to explore in and around Fort Cochin. Guests can visit the Dutch Palace, local churches, the Jewish Synagogue, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, all easily reached on foot or by bicycle. The hotel provides walking maps and can arrange local guides for deeper insight.
For a slower pace, guests can enjoy morning garden walks, yoga sessions, or cooking workshops within the hotel. Evening performances of classical music and Kathakali dance bring Kerala’s artistic heritage to life, while boat rides and harbour cruises offer a serene way to experience the city from the water.
Sustainability: The Malabar House has long been committed to responsible hospitality. It was among the first hotels in India to receive Green Globe certification for sustainable practices. The hotel champions local sourcing and organic produce, supports regional artists, and preserves the heritage architecture of its 18th-century building, contributing to Fort Cochin’s cultural and environmental legacy.
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When to visit India
Find out the best time to visit India with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is a great option for sightseeing in the north, days are clear and warm with minimal fog in the mornings. During this month, southern India provides a warm, sunny escape - properties in Kerala can fill quickly. If all that wasn't enough, visitors can experience some of the best mountain views in the Himalaya's - but you'll need to wrap up warm!
- Kite Festival in Gujarat
- Bikanar Camel Festival in Rajasthan
- Republic Day 26th January
February
February sees all the fog clearing in Northern states and it is regarded as one of the best months to travel as the whole country is warm and sunny. Visiting Delhi and the Golden Triangle are amazing during February and March, October and November but you will experience crowds at these popular sites.
March
One of the more popular months to travel, March is great for both weather conditions and cultural experiences, including Holi celebrating the victory of good over evil. If you're looking to go hiking, March is perfect in the Western Ghats. Visiting Delhi and the Golden Triangle is amazing during February and March, October and November but you will experience crowds at these popular sites.
- Holi Festival - world famous paint throwing celebration.
April
April sees temperatures sore country-wide, making it one of the driest and best months to go elephant and tiger spotting. As daytime temperatures can reach over 40 degrees we recommend excursions based in the mornings and evenings.
May
Temperatures and humidity continue to rise in May, reaching 45 degrees, which can make it uncomfortable. But wildlife viewings continue to be at their best as animals search for water sources.
June
From June, Ladakh is accessible offering incredible scenery and a complete contrast to the rest of India. Days are warm and bright, but you will need to pack layers for added warmth.
We recommend not travelling to Southern India and the Himalayas as humidity is high and thunderstorms are frequent as the country awaits the monsoon season.
July
Much like June, July offers incredible views across Ladakh whilst elsewhere monsoon season rains are imminent.
August
August is the perfect time to cruise along the Ganges thanks to the monsoon and its increased water levels.
September
September marks the end of the monsoon season and weather can still be unsettled across the country. If you're looking for good value travel, there can be some good deals in Rajasthan. Travel to Ladakh comes to a close as the season ends.
October
October is peak travel season, the rains end and the north of the country is warm. Visiting Delhi and the Golden Triangle is amazing during October and November but you will experience crowds at these popular sites.
- Mahatma Ghandi's birthday is celebrated on the 2nd October and is a national holiday.
- Diwali, the ancient Hindu festival of lights dazzles and illuminates the sky.
November
November is one of the best months to travel anywhere in India. Visiting Delhi and the Golden Triangle is amazing in November but you will experience crowds at these popular sites.
December
Southern India is sunny and warm in December, making it a popular option for yuletide celebrations. If you want to delve into northern culture, daytime temperatures as beautiful, however mornings and evenings can be cold and sometimes foggy.
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