Kerala

The south-western part of India is the least impoverished state, and the second-most urbanised state in the country. It has been a major spice exporter for 5000 years. It rains approximately 130 days per year, however most of it is during the monsoon so in order to avoid rain you should stay clear of June, July and August.

Kochi (Cochin)

Kochi is a major city at the Malabar coastline. It was the centre of spice trade for centuries. Today it is commonly described as Kerala's commercial, industrial and financial capital. I quote their own tourist information - "it is the crowning jewel of the state's tourism landscape, featuring gorgeous beaches, a far-reaching shoreline and breathtaking backwaters, Kochi is a paradise for nature lovers."