Things to see and do India

This sumptuous monastery of the Drugpa sect dates from the beginning of the ^18th century. In the middle of bewitching rocky landscapes, it is majestically suspended with a hill. It shelters superb frescos illustrating the protective deities and those with the thousand Buddhas. Higher up is the lama-lakhang, and two stuffed goats hang to the right of the entrance. A small museum contains ancient artifacts, thangkas and photos of the history of the gompa.

This imposing fort was built in 1427 by Sultan Ala-ud-Din Bahman. Defended by thick walls and a triple moat, the fort was for a time the seat of the administrative capital of much of South India. It houses about thirty monuments within it, including the delicate Rangin Mahal with its panels inlaid with mother-of-pearl and coloured tiles, the Tarkash Mahal or throne room and its delicate Islamic inscriptions, and the Solah Khamba mosque and its 16 pillars. The most interesting monuments are closed by heavy gates, so we strongly recommend that you use a guide who can open them for you. Although it is falling apart, many Bollywood films have used the beauty of the fort to shoot scenes. A small museum at the entrance displays sculptures, mosaics and objects from the fort. The ideal time to discover this jewel is just after the monsoon, in September or October, when the plain at the foot of the fort is lined with greenery.

Karez. This is the most original feature of the site. The impressive water supply system, inspired by Persian technology. The set of underground canals was supplied from nearby springs and connected to the surface by vertical ducts. 17 of these ducts are still visible and the canals spread over 2 kilometres under the fort. It provided drinking water to the garrisons based inside the fort, even though the region is experiencing frequent periods of drought.

If the beach is Itchy, Corbyn's Beach is the closest to Port Blair. This small grazed cove of coconut and tropical trees does not affect the long beaches of Havelock's turquoise waters. Moreover, the powerful marine currents do not encourage bathing. It is, however, a very beautiful observation point for sunrise, but we have to get up very early.

Khecheopalri Lake, located at an altitude of 1 700 metres, is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. It is surrounded by colourful Tibetan prayer flags. It is a pleasant stopover on the road between Pelling and Yuksom.