The Royal Splendor of Rajasthan

This collection of lakes, rivers, canals, and marshes, located in the heart of lush tropical vegetation along the Malabar coast, often marks the highlight of a stay in Kerala. A cruise on a houseboat, slowly gliding along the canals shaded by palm trees, is an unforgettable experience. It is also an opportunity to observe the life of small villages where families live in houses located at the water's edge. One is lulled by the serenity that permeates the place. It is an experience accessible even for budget travelers. The most frequented backwaters are those in the South of Kerala, but they can also be found in the North, near Nileshwar. The best season to visit them extends from September to May.

The intensive use of coconut and the proximity to the coast shape the contours of a unique cuisine in India. Kerala, the epicenter of pepper and spice production, has seen its culinary culture influenced by trade exchanges with other continents. Less spicy than that of the North, it offers an astonishing array of flavors for a modest price. The thali, a meal served on a banana leaf consisting of rice, several saucy dishes, and sometimes fish or shrimp, is traditional for lunch. A wide variety of fish and seafood, such as red snapper, kingfish, damselfish, swordfish, shrimp, lobster, and squid, enrich the menus. You can choose from the catch of the day and decide on the preparation: in coconut curry, grilled or tandoor-cooked. Fruits like mango, papaya, banana, and pineapple are also consumed in fresh juices or in a lassi.

India has nearly a hundred national parks and numerous nature reserves, some of the most prestigious of which are located in Kerala. Hoping to catch a glimpse of a tiger in the wild or observe elephants in their natural habitat is a must for wildlife enthusiasts. Situated in the Western Ghats mountains, these parks were created to preserve some of the richest biodiversity in the world. Therefore, access is often limited to guided tours (on foot, by jeep, boat, or even on elephant back) so as not to disturb an already fragile ecosystem. During the monsoon, several of these parks close to conduct a census of their population. It is therefore advisable to seek information before visiting. As accommodation options are often limited, it is preferable to book in advance.

India is, of course, the country of Ayurveda, "science of life" in Sanskrit. Becoming increasingly popular in Western countries, Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient medical science that is beginning to be accepted by those resistant to allopathy. The Ayurvedic method addresses the person in their entirety, body and psyche, without dividing them into distinct parts. It uses remedies based on plants and minerals, massages, and specific diets. Treatment can range from a one-hour therapy to sessions lasting several days, depending on needs, budget, and available time. Most travelers who have experienced this have given positive feedback on the treatment. Ayurvedic treatment centers are numerous in Kerala – thanks to the rapid development of tourism – and allow visitors to indulge themselves in a paradisiacal setting.

Offering one of the most magical visions, dances play a significant role in the cultural life of the region. Bhârata Natyam and kathakali are among the oldest in the world. In the kathakali tradition, halfway between dance and mime theater, dancers perform roles drawn from Hindu mythology, particularly epics like the Râmâyana and the Mahâbhârata. One of the most interesting aspects of kathakali is its complex makeup, which indicates the nature of each character by the colors used. Noble characters have green makeup, while those of ill repute bear red marks. Angry characters wear red makeup and a red beard. Hunters have a black base. Women, played by men, have bright and yellowish faces. Very different but equally captivating, Bhârata Natyam is danced by men and women to the sound of the tabla. Each hand position and eye movement has a meaning.

A wonderful trip at reasonable prices The prices for this destination are often an incentive to travel. Relatively low, they are within reach of a modest budget, provided the trip is well planned. With some wise advice from locals and a little research, it is possible to find good deals. Outside of the tourist season, a ticket to South India can cost up to 40% less. Thus, it is worth looking for and taking advantage of the advantageous rates offered by this destination. For around 600 euros, you can find round-trip tickets Paris-Kochi or Paris-Thiruvananthapuram, via Mumbai or Abu Dhabi.