Kerala houseboat, South India Banner.jpg
SOUTH INDIA 3A Farmers In Kerala Original

An ox-drawn plough races through the paddy fields of fertile Kerala.

2/38
SOUTH INDIA - Kerala fishermen

In an age-old tradition, which is surprisingly effective, local Keralan fishermen throw huge nets into the sea, then slowly pull them in, harnessing a wealth of fish in the process.

3/38
Malabar Escapes, Kerala, South India Banner (5).jpg
SOUTH INDIA - Coconut Lagoon, Kerala

Accessible only by boat, Coconut Lagoon resort in Kumarakom, set amongst glistening lagoons, lakes and coconut plantations is a seriously serene spot. 

5/38
SOUTH INDIA - Backwaters, Kerala

Drink in the tranquillity of this dusky scene from your own private houseboat, gliding through the Keralan Backwaters.

6/38
SOUTH INDIA Taj Falaknuma Palace Pool

Cool off in the swimming pool of the opulently restored Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad.

7/38
SOUTH INDIA Taj Falaknuma Palace Facade At Night

Feel history seep from the walls of Hyderabad's Taj Falaknuma Palace, which boasts marble staircases, lavish chandeliers and rare objects d’art. It really is as grand and magnificent as it looks – a real-life fairytale!

8/38
SOUTH INDIA Snake Boat Race Every August Backwaters Kerala

Head to the Kerala Backwaters in August to watch the lively annual Snake Boat Races.

9/38
SOUTH INDIA Private Dinning On Beach

South India has a great buzz but sometimes it’s the quiet, peaceful spots that give you the lasting memories, like this scenic dining experience in front of lapping waves at the Taj Exotica in Goa.

10/38
SOUTH INDIA Marari Beach 2

A glittering morning scene as the fishermen set off on Marari beach, Kerala.

11/38
SOUTH INDIA Kerala Backwaters Dusk

Dusk settles over the Backwaters - a peaceful and spiritual time.

12/38
SOUTH INDIA Kerala Back Waters House Boat

Houseboats were traditionally used to carry grain stores up the Backwaters of Kerala. Luxuriously adapted, they now the offer the unique chance to travel these nature-filled network of waterways.

13/38
SOUTH INDIA Beach

You won’t forget the beaches of South India: wild, windswept and utterly enthralling.

14/38
SOUTH INDIA Beach 4

South India’s coastline is characterised by lush palm thickets, white sand beaches and dominating Dutch-built forts.

15/38
SOUTH INDIA - Taj Falaknuma Palace Dining room

Dine in stately grandeur in the opulent dining room of the Taj Falaknuma Palace and re-live the history of the Nizams of Hyderabad.

16/38
SOUTH INDIA - Taj Exotica Sunset Villa Private Pool

Soak up the sun in the privacy of your private pool at the Taj Exotica, a fantastic five-star resort in Goa, just paces from the stunning powder-soft sandy beach.

17/38
SOUTH INDIA - water-front view with private pool villas at Coconut Lagoon

Philip Kutty's Farm is a luxurious private homestay in Kerala's Backwaters which offers a peaceful eco-friendly escape, coupled with amazing Ayurvedic treatments. You’ll feel totally re-junevated after a stay here.

18/38
SOUTH INDIA - Vivanta by Taj - Madikeri,  villa

Be utterly spoiled by wraparound Coorg rainforest views in Vivanta by Taj Madikeri's inspring and eco-conscious villas complete with fireplaces and indoor pools.

19/38
SOUTH INDIA - Vivanta by Taj - Madiker, indoor pool

Living, breathing rainforest fills every view from the luxury of your private indoor pool with retractable sunroof at this remarkable resort in Karnataka, Vivanta by Taj Madikeri.

20/38
SOUTH INDIA - Tamil Nadu, cow

Experience India’s culture and mysticism at its incense-scented Hindu temples and observe revered cows which wander freely throughout city streets.

21/38
SOUTH INDIA - Tamil Nadu (8)

Marvel at the vibrantly coloured carvings that greet you at Chidambaram, one of Tamil Nadu's most exotic Hindu temple complexes. 

22/38
SOUTH INDIA - Tamil Nadu (7)

The coastline of Tamil Nadu, remote and windswept, is largely off the tourist track. Come here to discover a chilled out pace and friendly welcome.

23/38
SOUTH INDIA - SwaSwara 1

Pick through the exotic bazaars of Goa to immerse yourself in local life.

24/38
SOUTH INDIA - SwaSwara 2

Everyday life in India – you’ll be surprised how much even a tiny shop can sell; bananas, cigarettes, even gasoline!

25/38
SOUTH INDIA - Spice Coast, Kerala

Be enchanted by a unique lifestyle aboard your traditional houseboat, drifting up the fertile canals and lagoons of Kerala’s Backwaters.

26/38
SOUTH INDIA - Pondicherry Church

Explore the fine colonial architecture of Pondicherry and be sure to stop by this vast Roman Catholic church, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

27/38
SOUTH INDIA - marari beach, fish basket

Rise early to experience the bustle of the morning catch coming to shore at Marari Beach. Potential buyers line the beach to choose the day’s catch straight from the fishing boats. Fresh fish is a staple part of every Keralan’s diet – often laced with fiery chillis!

 

28/38
SOUTH INDIA - Marari Beach Resort, Mararikulam, Kerala,

For an alternative and atmospheric beach break, Marari Beach in Kerala can't be beat. This laid-back resort consistently gets great feedback from our clients.

29/38
SOUTH INDIA - Leela Kimpinski Goa

At the Leela Kimpinski in Goa, expect staff to go the extra mile to make your day. Al Fresco dinner surrounded by water lilies and candles? Not a problem.

30/38
SOUTH INDIA - beach 2

400 Kms west of the Malabar coast lies the dazzling Lakshadweep Islands. Above water find a deserted paradise and below, discover plentiful corals teeming with colourful fish.

31/38
SOUTH INDIA - Hotel Brunton boatyard, Cochin

If you like boats, then you’ll love staying in our favourite hotel in Cochin, the atmospheric Brunton's Boatyard, set in a restored shipyard surrounded by artefacts from the age of steam and sail.

32/38
SOUTH INDIA - Goa

Set on an idyllic spit of land in north Goa overlooking the ocean, ‘Elsewhere – The Beach House’ is a simple but charming 3 bedroom Portuguese-style house with just the friendly staff, fishermen and egg-laying turtles for company… bliss.

33/38
SOUTH INDIA - Beach 3

Make sure you leave time to explore the coast of Kerala and discover hidden tropical beaches encased by swaying palm trees.

34/38
SOUTH INDIA - elephants at Periyar National Park

Watch magnificent elephants take a refreshing drink in the Periyar National Park. Keep an eye out for tigers too!

35/38
SOUTH INDIA - curry

The south of India is known for its creamy, coconut-milk fish curries. Although smoother in flavour they still have a fiery bite!

36/38
SOUTH INDIA - Coconut Lagoon

Use your time in the Backwaters to gain an understanding of daily life on these sleepy Keralan waterways. In between the rice paddy fields are a criss cross of canals, which locals use for transport.

37/38
SOUTH INDIA - Bangaram beach

Set within the Lakshaweep Archipelago, Bangaram Island offers a simple yet idyliic lifestyle in rustic accommodation. While away your time on the beach or snorkelling the beautiful coral gardens.

38/38

Client Testimonials

Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences