DISCOVER THE SOUTH 

From here we move directly to the Southern Regions of India and start with CHENNAI (MADRAS) the capital city of Tamil Nadu is the most convenient point of entry and has fascinating towns with magnificent towns with magnificent temples. Madras has an international airport, a seaport and a rail and road network that links it to all the major towns and cities of the region. KANCHIPURAM, THANJAVUR, TIRUCHIRAPALLI, MADURAI and Rameswaram, Mamallapuram are good examples of temple towns. Further down to the coast, Pondicherry displays its French heritage in its seaside villas and the French names of its streets. 

Feeling hot? Break away from the heat, not far away are Ootacamund (Ooty) and Kodikanal - picturesque hill stations. The cuisine of Tamil Nadu, more or less totally vegetarian, has become enormously popular all over the country. The state of Kerela - "Gods own country" along the west coast of the peninsula is a lush green escape with beautiful beaches, historic port towns and pretty retreats in the hills, the state's heart is composed of intensely green paddy fields and a unique network of rivers and lagoons. Trivandrum, the state Capital has an exceptionally fine museum set in an amusement park. Nearby is the most popular KOVALAM beach, drive into Travandrum for sightseeing trips and visit SRI PADMANABHASWAMY TEMPLE and PADMANABHAPURAM PALACE. 

Cochin, with a fine natural harbour has been Kerelas center of maritime trade for innumerable centuries. See the Jewish Synagogue, the Mattancherry palace, St. church- the oldest European church in the sub-continent and the Chinese fishing nets indicate Kerela's trade with China. Kerala's traditions of dance forms, which originated from temple worship, can be witnessed at regularly held performances. 

From Kottayam to Alleppey is a world of palm fringed waterways, a route which is covered by motor launch and the special houseboats are altogether a different world. The Coral Islands - 36 of them collectively known as LAKSHADWEEP are easily accessible from Kuchi. 

The Splendid cities of BANGALORE and MYSORE reflect the royal heritage of KARANATAKA. With its capital at Banglore, is home to a fascinating legacy of richly carved temples, imposing mosques and trappings of a royal past. Visit the exquisite Hoysala temples of Halebid and Belur nor far away from Bangalore. 

MYSORE is another charming city with its beautiful palaces and royal traditions. Interesting trips around Mysore includes the BRINDAVAN GARDENS, SRIRANGAPATNA, THE RANGANATHITTOO BIRD SANCTUARY the ornate HOYSLA temple at Somnathpur and the NAGARHOLE NATIONAL PARK - all within easy reach of the city. 

ANDRA PRADESH'S capital city, Hyderabad has the atmosphere of an Arabian Nights fairy tale. Whimsical Palaces, erstwhile stately homes and crowded bazaars filled with shops selling Hyderabadi pearls, incense silk, perfumes, antiques glittering glass bangles and copper utensils. The imposing Char Minar and the Golconda Fort looming in the distance are two well know landmarks. Much of the Hyderabads old town can be covered on foot. The city's other import landmarks include the Salar Jung Museum which exhibits priceless treasures alongside trivia that build up the personal collection of the owner and Mecca Mosque.