India- the land of a thousand suns and the world's largest democracy, home to 17 world heritage sites and 18 official languages, bustling with color, contrast and charisma tenders an unique, unparalleled experience that time cannot wither away. Robyn Davidson, author of `Desert Places' sums it rather artfully, "..with each return I discover a new India, which contains memories of the previous ones, fixed, like props, from the theatre of the past." Conviviality, warmth and openness is what current-day India is all about.
MOUNTAIN MAGIC
The map of India resembles a mammoth diamond with the spectacular Himalayan mountain range in the northern part, acting as a natural barrier, thereby, detaching it from it's neighbours. Lying hidden within are mesmerizing breaks of dawn, verdant valleys, an assortment of flora and fauna, serpentine rivers, myriad confluences, paths that meander, quaint customs, lucid religious influences, tranquil lifestyles and brilliant sunsets. Uncover the enigma of this expanse, where a host of activities, like mountain trekking, hiking and biking, rock-climbing, skiing, river rafting, jeep safaris and monastery-hopping await the intrepid traveler. Some of the prominent regions include the Leh and Zanskar Range, the Lahaul, Spiti and Kinnaur valley and the Garhwal and Kumaon range in Uttaranchal. `REAL' INDIA
Moving south, the mountains slope out into the broad Indo-Gangetic plains, dominated by battle-scarred forts, opulent palaces, intricately carved temples, densely populated cities and wildlife parks. Tourist attractions abound drawing visitors from all across the globe. One of the wonders of the contemporary world- the Taj Mahal, a monument raised in marble to commemorate love lies in the city of Agra, just 200 kms. away from historic Delhi, the capital of India. The honey-colored mansions of Jurassic sandstone in Jaisalmer, bathing `ghats' at Varanasi, exquisite stone temples of Khajuraho and Ossian, sun temples at Modhera and Konarak, rolling sand dunes in the Thar desert, the medieval town of Bundi, an inimitable Bird Sanctuary at Bharatpur abode of over 300 varieties of resident and migratory birds, one of Asia's refined Tiger Reserves, the Kanha National Park and Udaipur's amorous palaces and utopian lakes are but a few of the beguiling, easily accessible destinations, the stimulating plains of India have to proffer, between the months of October to March when temperatures are at their asking best. BEACH-COMBER'S DELIGHT
The east coast is surrounded by the Bay of Bengal, while the Arabian Sea encompasses the West, with the southern most tip projecting into the Indian Ocean. The largely uninterrupted palm-fringed coastline of India stretches for over 7000 kms., bringing in it's wake sun-drenched beaches, palm-thatched roofs, infatuating lagoons and estuaries, alluring sea breeze, rickety fishing boats and the unmistakable scent of the ocean. Cycling along the shore, sunbathing, catching up on a bestseller under the shade of a palm tree or diving off the coast are `de rigueur' in Goa, known for it's ebbing lifestyle. Kerala is recalled for it's backwater rides, dense forests and ancient dance forms, as well as the `tried and tested' ancient Ayurvedic form of treatment, comprising of herbal massages and medicines, concocted from natural herbs and the new balm for fevered souls. An archipelago of 36 islands, Lakshadweep is famed for corals and blue lagoons, making diving, snorkeling and para-sailing an engaging daytime activity. Much of ancient India lives in the temple rich state of Tamil Nadu, where strong influences of a Dravidian past still govern the daily lives of it's people. ALL-SEASON DESTINATION
The seventh largest country in the world with a total area of 3.3 million sq. kms. has varied topography and climate ranging from arctic to tropical, making it possible to visit at different periods for altered experiences. Duration of stay can vary from two weeks to six months! Accommodation ranges from boutique style properties and luxury hotels for tourists willing to splurge, to first and tourist class hotels for average spenders. The avid backpacker can choose between dormitories, hostels and budget hotels. Unconventional forms of lodging exist in the form of tree-top houses and rice boats in Kerala to heritage hotels and palaces in Rajasthan and adjoining states. Offer to get pampered in regal surroundings, replicate the lives of former `Maharajas' (Emperors), hear the call of the wild in forest lodges, choose to stay in a clean room with clean sheets, or rough it out among peregrinators in a dormitory; the selection is yours.
GETTING THERE
Being a long haul destination, two weeks is an ideal period. When you decide to go, plan ahead and choose a particular region or activity that interests you most. Six major international airports link India to the rest of the world, at competitive air fares. There are direct flights from New York and Chicago to Delhi and Mumbai, while Air Canada has convenient interline arrangements with many European and Middle East Airlines. The domestic air service network is well managed by Jet Airways and Indian Airlines, with connections to all cities and many major towns. Tourists can avail of a `Visit India Pass' at reasonable rates, while an Indrail Pass can be purchased, should one prefer to travel by rail. Serving over 10 million commuters the Indian Railways is the lifeline of India and offers a relaxing method of travel and `discovering,' India on wheels, if time is not a major hindrance. Traveling by private chauffeur driven cars is the best option, should flexibility and convenience be a prime motive.
India is a `must-see' destination in the minds of many. For some it's a lifelong wish to gaze at the Taj Mahal at moonlight, for others it's trying to sight a tiger in a forest reserve, a few may have a spiritual quest for enlightenment, while many may want to experience it's riveting culture and exotic beauty. When seen from a distance, the map of India bears strong resemblance to a person standing with arms outstretched. It's an universal sign, symbolizing, `welcome,' and a perfect invitation to the land of delightful surprises.
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