Plus 5 days at Idyllic beach resort, near backwaters, with plenty of free time. Ideal introduction to Indian culture without usual time wasting, with an experienced guide. Sheltered from mainland invaders by the rugged Ghats, the outward looking Keralans have been trading with the outside world for the past 2,000 years, an activity which has led to heterogeneous cultural influences. Today, the state is one of the most progressive and equitable in India, with low infant mortality and high literacy, thanks partly to its enlightened former maharajas and its frequently elected communist governments. Unlike the rest of India, Kerala is truly tropical.
Lush mountains rise out of rubber, tea and spice plantations.
Superb sandy beaches hug the coast line. The cuisine is excellent and particularly good for the vegetarian. Malayalam followed by Hindi, English is also widely spoken. In December between 28c and 32c. During the day an elephant resides in the front garden while in the back garden hammocks hung between coconut palm trees surround the private swimming pool .