View an exceptional example of Indo-Islamic architecture at the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, a structure built int eh 18th Century from teak, its opulence manifested in its floral wall motifs, pillars, arches and grand paintings. Don’t forget though, that this city is the focus of India’s high tech industry.

Marvel at the blend of Islamic, Hindu, Rajput and Gothic styles of architecture demonstrated within the Mysore Palace, Mysore’s main attraction. Engage your senses at the Devaraja Market, where you can buy local spices, sandalwood and silk.

Climb to India’s most famous hill station. There’s much to entice visitors to linger: exotic tea plantations, manicured parks and gardens as well as a small lake fed by water that runs off the surrounding hills. Ooty’s climate is a little more pleasant than Tamil Nadu’s sometimes sweltering lowlands on account of its altitude.

Sail away to this serene port once frequented by Dutch, English, Arab, Chinese and Portuguese sailors. A visit to the atmospheric city of Cochin, whose history spans the centuries, opens up all kinds of unexpected places and experiences in the state known as "God’s Own Country.

Explore Kumarakom’s famous freshwater lake, the Vembanad, fringed with coconut groves, The islands on the lake provide a sanctuary for exotic birds and the cottages on stilts that sit right on the water will give you a front-row seat to and the show staged by the wildlife that make their home on the beautiful lake shore.

Transport yourself to beaches of shimmering white sand and waters as blue as the sky in this resort located on the gorgeous Kerala coast. A nature-lover’s dream, this area is home to over 97 butterfly species, as well as turtles, frogs and exotic plants. Escape to nature and soak in the beauty of sun, sand and sea.