Kerala & India Connections

Kerala & India Connections If you would like some advice or a quotation for a holiday to India please call us on 01892 722440

The company was started in 1998 because of our love of Kerala and South India which we have been visiting regularly. At that time there were no other UK tour operators specialising in Kerala and South India. Consequently we are considered to be the pioneers of holidays to Kerala. A great many of the suppliers we work with tell us that the volume of business they get from us is greater than any oth

er tour operator working in the tailor-made market; we have an in-depth knowledge of the region which enables us to create the perfect holiday for our customers; we offer an extremely high level of service and have an excellent reputation both in the UK and in Kerala. We are completely independent and a registered limited company (Companies House - number 3626809). We hold an ATOL licence (number 6462), which means that we can arrange your flights and the whole holiday is covered by the CAA via ATOL. For customers who do not book their flights through us we have an insurance policy (TOPP). We are a small company offering a personal service; we are well established; well known in the area we serve; can offer the security/back up of ATOL and ABTA and provide a service so popular that the majority of our customers are repeat or recommended. For comments from past customers see the feedback blog on our website. Due to repeat customers demand we now specialise in the whole of India and can assist with North India itineraries.

When you visit your parents and see your love of India influencing their decor.
24/08/2025

When you visit your parents and see your love of India influencing their decor.

Red Earth Kabini is an eco and sustainable resort situated on the Kabini River in Karnataka, located on a peninsula surr...
23/08/2025

Red Earth Kabini is an eco and sustainable resort situated on the Kabini River in Karnataka, located on a peninsula surrounded by the Kabini backwaters on three sides, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.

The resort features 20 spacious cottages, built using local red mud to create a distinct, earthy feel. Each cottage has individual decor and large, antique-style beds. The use of materials such as bamboo mats and thatched roofs adds to the authentic ambiance. And to relax after a busy day wildlife viewing, you can relax in your private open-to-the-sky whirlpool bath.

The on-site restaurant, Poshini, serves Indian and continental cuisine made from organic produce grown on the property or sourced from nearby villages, with a separate kitchen for vegetarian cooking. High tea is served at the open-air Wonky Monkey cafe, and on a tiny island in the middle of a lake you can have an evening drink at the Wetlands Bar.

Other facilities include a chemical-free swimming pool, spa and wellness center, library and a bonfire pit.

The property itself is a thriving habitat for wildlife, with a herbal garden that attracts numerous birds and butterflies. Enjoy wildlife safaris into the nearby Nagarhole National Park (Rajiv Gandhi National Park), an area known for its sightings of tigers, leopards and elephants. With on-site naturalists, guests can be taken on bird-watching excursions and nature walks to explore the local ecosystem.

As well as wildlife viewing you can enjoy coracle boat rides on the backwaters and bullock cart rides through the village, as well as cycling, fishing and cooking classes.

Crossing the Ram Jhula iron suspension bridge in Rishikesh!  This bridge spans the Ganges River and is a major landmark ...
22/08/2025

Crossing the Ram Jhula iron suspension bridge in Rishikesh! This bridge spans the Ganges River and is a major landmark connecting Sivananda Ashram and Swargashram.

It isn’t just humans that like to cross this Rishikesh landmark!! 🐮

The Taj Malabar Resort & Spa is a luxurious, 5-star hotel situated in Kochi, on Willingdon Island with views of the harb...
21/08/2025

The Taj Malabar Resort & Spa is a luxurious, 5-star hotel situated in Kochi, on Willingdon Island with views of the harbour, providing a mix of traditional and modern design. The heritage wing dates back to 1935.

Willingdon Island is the largest artificial island in India, created from the soil that was dug out of the Kochi harbour during its modernization in the 1930s.

The property features 82 rooms and 11 suites, that combine classic and contemporary designs. 

Dining options include a seafood restaurant on a traditional boat called Rice Boat, and Pepper, the all-day option offering local and global cuisine. The Mattancherry Bar, is the place to go to unwind with a drink in an elegant setting.

After a day of sightseeing, relax by the stunning infinity pool or have an Ayurvedic treatment at the J Wellness Circle Spa.

Chikan, referred to as Chikankari, is a classic embroidery technique that began in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. This c...
20/08/2025

Chikan, referred to as Chikankari, is a classic embroidery technique that began in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. This craft is a significant part of the city’s heritage, frequently linked to women’s apparel and accessories.

At the BrijRama Palace, timeless elegance intertwines with grand history along the Darbhanga Ghat. A lasting wonder of V...
17/08/2025

At the BrijRama Palace, timeless elegance intertwines with grand history along the Darbhanga Ghat. A lasting wonder of Varanasi, this legendary palace serves as a proud symbol of the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Its design, a splendid tribute to the Maratha Dynasty, invites you to enter a world where history beautifully intertwines with luxury. Built in 1812, this is a royal retreat for those seeking a vacation rich in comfort and heritage. With 32 rooms and suites

Escape the daily hustle and dive into a journey designed for spiritual renewal. Nestled above the holy Ganges, BrijRama Palace serves as a tranquil haven, mere moments from Varanasi’s beloved sites. Being the second oldest palace in Varanasi, it offers more than just a place to sleep; it’s a passage through history.

15th August is a significant day in India’s history as it marks the moment in 1947 when India emerged from centuries of ...
15/08/2025

15th August is a significant day in India’s history as it marks the moment in 1947 when India emerged from centuries of colonial rule. It’s an occasion to remember the bravery of the freedom fighters and to celebrate the rich tapestry of a unique and diverse nation.

Jim's Jungle Retreat is located on 15 acres in Dhela village, adjacent to the southern forests of the Jhirna zone in Jim...
13/08/2025

Jim's Jungle Retreat is located on 15 acres in Dhela village, adjacent to the southern forests of the Jhirna zone in Jim Corbett National Park.

Established to aid local communities, promote conservation, and foster a greater appreciation for the forest, the retreat welcomes guests with its core philosophy right from the start: Seek the tiger, find the jungle.

Created by Daleep Akoi, who spent his childhood discovering the wilds of Corbett, the 18 cottages and lodges draw inspiration from forest bungalows and the traditional architecture of the Gujjar community.

Paths wind through shaded trees towards secluded verandas, accompanied by a thatched reception pavilion, an open-air lounge, and a pool that together form vibrant communal areas.

The Carpet Sahib’s Café, designed in the traditional Gujjar style using mud and thatch, is renowned for offering what many consider the finest cuisine in the area—featuring locally sourced vegetables, Himalayan grains, fresh herbs, and produce from local farms. Meals are frequently accompanied by wildlife discussions, slide presentations, and film showings.

The shave shack 🪒
11/08/2025

The shave shack 🪒

I had a lovely and informative meeting with Joanna and Raghu from The Sarai at Toria in July at Window to Luxury’s Inspi...
09/08/2025

I had a lovely and informative meeting with Joanna and Raghu from The Sarai at Toria in July at Window to Luxury’s Inspirations event. As well as hearing all about Sarai, they introduced me to the Community Homestays of Rumbak village in Ladakh, now united under the name Chigdil. The homestay project in Ladakh began in this village and it is unique in having remained a community concern for around three decades. Until now run informally, they have this year registered themselves as an official Co-operative. Rumbak is in one of Ladakh’s best valleys for wildlife and where both Raghu and Joanna worked in the 1980s and 1990s. It is now only a short drive from Leh though in the 80’s/90’s it was a full day’s trek!
Please find some lovely images, map and information shared by Joanna & Raghu.

Constructed in 1729, Rajmahal Palace served as the residence for Maharaja Sawai Man Singh and Maharani Gayatri Devi. For...
08/08/2025

Constructed in 1729, Rajmahal Palace served as the residence for Maharaja Sawai Man Singh and Maharani Gayatri Devi. For many years, it hosted royalty, diplomats, and visionaries. Now included in the RAAS collection, the palace features only 13 rooms and suites—each a serene burst of design, texture and vintage allure. Among them are two spectacular Royal Apartments.

Food is taken seriously here. The Bar, Polo and 51 Shades of Pink each offer a unique vibe—playful, classic, and indulgent. The menu covers various continents while remaining anchored in Indian traditions, boasting a global influence and a wine selection that knows just when to delight you.

Exploring a less familiar aspect of Assam, the M.V. Rudra Singha provides a leisurely and comfortable voyage along the B...
02/08/2025

Exploring a less familiar aspect of Assam, the M.V. Rudra Singha provides a leisurely and comfortable voyage along the Brahmaputra.

This compact and thoughtfully designed houseboat from Assam Bengal Navigation features only a few rooms — each equipped with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and expansive windows that provide breathtaking views of the river, guaranteeing both comfort and a bond with nature.

The four-day journey features a blend of local activities: cycling through the intriguing silk-weaving town of Sualkuchi, observing the majestic one-horned rhinos during an exciting jeep safari at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and exploring ancient temples and monasteries by the river. Onboard, a personal chef crafts fresh, uncomplicated Assamese meals served directly at your table, providing a genuine flavor of the area.

The boat docks at tranquil locations every night, distancing itself from the hustle and bustle, offering a genuinely peaceful retreat. If you wish to discover Assam at a more leisurely pace, engaging deeply with its culture and wildlife, this exceptional experience is ideal for you.

Address

The Granary, East Shield Hill
Morpeth
NE613LD

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 5:30pm
Thursday 9am - 5:30pm
Friday 9am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+441892722440

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Our Story

The company was founded in 1998 because of our love of Kerala and South India, which we had been visiting regularly. At that time there were no other UK tour operators specialising in Kerala and South India. Consequently we are considered to be the pioneers of holidays to Kerala. A great many of the suppliers we work with tell us that the volume of business they get from us is greater than any other tour operator working in the tailor-made market. We quickly expanded to offer the whole of India and for north India holidays we trade as India Connections. Our in-depth knowledge of India enables us to create the perfect holiday for our customers; we offer an extremely high level of service and have an excellent reputation both in the UK and in India.

In 2020 the Directors of Kerala Connections decided to retire – but did not want the company to cease trading. The perfect solution was found, we merged with a like-minded company – No News No Shoes Ltd. Gary Tree who has been working for Kerala/India Connections since 2007 and has a vast knowledge of India remains as the main contact.

We hold an ATOL licence, which means that we can arrange flights and the whole holiday is covered. For customers who do not book flights through us we have an insurance policy to protect them against our financial failure. We are a small company offering a personal service; we are well established; well known in the area we serve; can offer the security of ATOL and provide a service so popular that the majority of our customers are repeat or recommended. For comments from past customers see the feedback on our website.