Muvattupuzha lies at the meeting point of three rivers, where palms trees lean out over languid waters and houseboats drift among the water hyacinths, surrounded by fields of pineapple, banana, coconut and black pepper. It’s a typical south Indian landscape: tropical and lovely, much like anywhere else in rural Kerala.

What elevates Muvattupuzha above its neighbours is Indian Summer House. A luxurious retreat set in luscious, landscaped gardens, with an ayurvedic spa and beautiful outdoor pool, this place is worth going out of your way for. Once a traditional family home, it has been restored in absolutely stunning fashion by the family’s descendants. And it’s not just about the setting – as idyllic as that is. Your hosts are what really make the experience, taking you out by boat or bike to explore the local highlights – hidden temples, teahouses, toddy tapping and more.

Muvattupuzha isn’t about the big stuff; it’s about getting to experience Keralan life at its most ordinary – which, for us, can be extraordinary.