The Old Court House by Abad — Fort Kochi

The Old Court House by Abad occupies one of Fort Kochi's most recognisable historic buildings — an arcaded, whitewashed courthouse whose colonnades, chequered tile floors and coffered ceilings have been carefully preserved. Rooms pair those period proportions with air conditioning, Wi-Fi and contemporary bathrooms.

Café Rendezvous serves all-day dining beneath the original ceilings, a rooftop pool looks out across the old town towards the harbour, and a heritage banquet hall under the pitched timber roof hosts events. Fort Kochi's Chinese fishing nets, galleries, churches and Mattancherry's spice markets are all within an easy walk or short drive.