A country of contrasts, awe-inspiring forts, bustling cities, remote beaches and fabulous temples India is also a paradise for divers, with the turquoise waters surrounding the 35 Lakshadweep Islands offering an unexplored world of marine life. India's only coral islands are fringed by snow-white sands and protective coral reefs, and only ten are inhabited. Visitor numbers are strictly controlled, resulting in only a fortunate few visitors to each island at any one time. Kerala is a lush, verdant contrast, home of tea and, many and varied, spice plantations, and possessing over 25% of India's 15,000 plant species. Add a visit to Kerala onto your dive itinerary to explore this green state and its many attractive backwaters and lakes.