In India's Deep South, you’ll find the coastal state of Kerala, shaped by its layered landscape: almost 600km of glorious Arabian Sea coast and beaches; an intriguing network of glistening backwaters; and the spice and tea-covered hills of the Western Ghats.

Kerala is a world away from the chaos of the rest of India, and has an altogether more laid-back place. Just setting foot on this swathe of soul-quenching, palm-shaded green will slow your subcontinental stride to a blissed-out amble.

Besides its famous backwaters, elegant houseboats, health treatments and delicately spiced cuisine, Kerala is home to wild elephants, exotic birds and tigers, while vibrant traditions such as Kathakali plays, temple festivals and snake-boat races frequently bring even the smallest villages to life.