North or South?

I've been doing research on what I would like to see the most in India and can't decide where I should focus my time. My plan is to volunteer in Chennai for a month and spend the next two months traveling. I am torn between the beaches and the mountains. I really would like to experience as much of the nature as I can while I'm there - the plants and animals that are unique to the region as well as the scenery and landscapes. I want to have a pretty relaxed trip but want to fit as much in as I can in the time I have. Is two months enough time to see some of both the north and the south, or should I focus my time in one or the other? If so, which one is more diverse or interesting?

Thanks for any tips!

Also, if anyone wants to meet up in November/December 2007 I'd love to find some travel partners! Reply to this

For diversity I would say the north of India. Rajasthan, the Himalayas, Uttar Pradesh- all such different areas with a fascinating history. The south is beautiful and tropical though with much more laidback people and great beaches as well as temples. What are you particularly interested in seeing? There is at least one tiger sanctuary (Ranthambore) and bird sanctuary (Keoladeo) in the north although the south probably has more abundant wildlife because it is quite lush. Reply to this