Journey to India's gentler side, where laid-back beaches nestle alongside buzzing temple towns, and cosmopolitan cities sound an urban hum of bars, cafes and shop-till-you-drop extravagance. Cruise Kerala's backwaters, find serenity at a Maharashtrian ashram, count cows on a Goan beach - discover the best of India's tropical south with this comprehensive guide. • GO BEYOND THE TOURIST TRAIL to find tranquil beach escapes, wildlife-packed national parks and remote tribal villages • ENRICH YOUR EXPERIENCE with our chapters on South India's extraordinary history and culture • REST EASY in the best accommodation - from backwater houseboats to Raj-era palaces • TELL YOUR DHAL FROM YOUR DOSA with our chapter on Indian cuisine, and in-depth reviews of the best restaurants in the south • FIND YOUR WAY from Mumbai to Chennai and back again with the help of our detailed transport information and over 90 maps