Win a seven night holiday to Kerala in India staying in private properties from the luxury collection of Mahindra Homestays.

Kerala is considered by National Geographic as one of the 10 ‘paradises’ in the world. A destination in itself, the southern state of Kerala is a land with a diverse culture and history, dramatic lush hills, and sweeping plantations, white-sand beaches and waterlogged backwaters. Elephants and tigers roam the national parks whilst the numerous colonial eras are reflected in Fort Cochin. This is the heartland for Ayurveda, meditation and yoga. Festivals here are legendary, the variety of religions in Kerala make this state a backdrop for a theatrical display of all beliefs, whilst the vegetarian feasts displayed on banana leaves and the traditional desert of Payasam are a sight (and taste) to behold.

Mahindra Homestays brings you the ideal way to experience Kerala in all its magical diversity. Private homes within the Mahindra Homestays portfolio can be found across the width and breadth of Kerala, each with their own character and style, practicing eco-tourism initiatives and ensuring guests experience ‘God’s Own Country’ from top to toe. Unique experiences in Keralan homestays include Ayurvedic massages, in-house cooking lessons, houseboat excursions, night fishing, rock climbing, plantation visits, searching for rare wildlife and more.

The prize includes seven nights' B&B accommodation in private estates (four star category), domestic transfers in India, and also a complimentary Ayurvedic Spa treatment at Swaastha, India’s leading Ayurvedic Spa.

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED

The prize is for two people travelling and sharing accommodation together and is subject to availability. Valid for travel from 01 February to 01 December 2011. This competition closes on Monday 23rd August and the winner will be notified within seven working days, and will then need to confirm their full name, address and telephone number within ten working days, or the prize will be re-allocated.

For more details about the nearly 300 private homestays across India go to www.mahindrahomestays.com

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SAMPLE ITINERARY

Northern India: the Golden Triangle. This seven-day tour unveils Rajasthan to you.

The beginning...

Arrive in Delhi, stay at a city homestay, and discover henna artwork or take a private cooking class. Visit the Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, Lodhi Gardens and Red Fort.

The middle...

Travel to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Itmad-ud-Daula’s tomb. Spend the night in a homestay. Travel to Jaipur and visit Hawa Mahal and Chokhi Dhani.

The finale...

Explore the Jharkhand Mahadev Temple, visit a textile museum and shop for handicrafts before driving back to Delhi.

For more detailed information on the itinerary please visit http://blog.mahindrahomestays.com/golden-triangle-india-tour/

The total package price for this Golden Triangle India tour is from £500 (based on two people travelling together including ground transport, breakfast and 1 other meal, free tea and coffee, laundry and internet) and can be customised to suit your needs and any specific accommodation requirements you have. The itinerary as well as other Mahindra Homestays can be booked with Travel Counsellors ( www.travelcounsellors.co.uk or call 0800 074 7800).

For more information please visit www.mahindrahomestays.com