Madurai Getting lost in the chaos of Madurai’s Meenakshi Amman Temple.

Thanjavur Admiring the crowning glory of the Brihadishwara Temple.

Volunteers (minimum 15 days) can work in a range of areas, from water testing and medical research to the clinic’s library, pharmacy or medicinal herb garden; they are hugely appreciated and offered board and lodgings in the medical centre.

Puducherry Soaking up the unique Franco-Indian flair, boho boutiques and lively yoga scene.

Chettinadu Spending the night in an opulent mansion.

Natyanjali Dance Festival (Chidambaram; www.natyanjalichidambaram.com; Feb) This five-day dance festival attracts 300 to 400 classical dancers from all over India.

Tigers are the other big news here, and your chances of spotting a wild Royal Bengal in MP are as good as anywhere in India.

the adventurous can foray into Chhattisgarh, fascinatingly far removed from mainstream India.