Travancore Heritage sits in 15 acres of verdant coconut plantations, just 15 minutes south from Kovalam and 40 minutes from Trivandrum Airport. It’s built in a traditional style; the 90 rooms sit within tiled roof timber houses that pepper the steep hillside. From here it’s possible to walk directly down to Chowara Beach and the Arabian Sea. The main reception area dates back 120 years, however the rooms have been added more recently. These are fairly simple but comfortable with en-suite bathrooms and dark wooden furniture.  There’s a large pool, an Ayurveda spa and several restaurants to choose from but it’s also possible to get a taxi to Kovalam’s main beach, Lighthouse, where there’s a range of restaurants and boutiques. Travancore Heritage is a simple property that is great value for money.