India’s south shimmers with tropical plants and palm trees, and is famous for the beautiful sandy coastlines of Goa, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Serene villages and the tranquil backwaters of Kerala contrast with lively cities such as Mysore and its spectacular Anglo-Indian palace. Spot a leopard sunning itself or elephants bathing in a national park.

Sample cuisine such as the coconut-centric cooking of Kerala, and crisp dosas (pancakes) with spicy filling or accompanied by chutneys, all served with warm hospitality. In the cool reaches of the Cardamom Hills, visit tea plantations wrapping peaks in green velvet, trek through areas where coffee and cardamom are grown and savour the spice-laden air. The Nilgiri (Blue) Hills, part of the Western Ghats and perching across the borders of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, are known for their dramatic scenery and enticing hill stations such as Ooty The region would not be complete without impressive temples from various eras. Those of particular interest to visitors include the Hindu temples of Chidambaram and Tiruvannamalai, and the Meenakshi Temple of Madurai.