Former fashion model-turned-actress Lisa Ray has been roped in as the host of an upcoming travel show for lifestyle channel TLC.

To be produced by the channel in India, the series, which is still to be titled, will premiere in 2011 and will be set against the cultural yet contemporary backdrop of India.

Uncovering the beauty of various cities, it will have the 38-year-old actress as both a host and a travel guide.

"With a dynamic personality, Lisa Ray will add great value to this incisive, entertaining and informative tour...the new series is an attempt to push our creative frontiers to showcase the uniqueness of India, " Rahul Johri, senior vice president and general manager, India, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, said in a statement.

The actress, who is now leading a healthy life after having fought a rare cancer of plasma cells, was also excited about the new venture.

"Being an avid fan of TLC, I am ecstatic at this opportunity to work with the channel, which has caught the imagination of the people in India. I can't wait to get started and to enjoy every moment of it, " she said in a statement.

To be shot at India's most exotic surroundings, the programme is aimed to explore inimitable aspects of Indian culture. Based on each city's unique character and cultural background, Lisa will personalise her tour of the city in the series.