INCREDIBLE INDIA

Bounded by the majestic Himalayan ranges in the north and edged by an endless stretch of golden beaches, India is a vivid kaleidoscope of landscapes, magnificent historical sites and royal cities, misty mountain retreats, colorful people, rich cultures and festivities.

The timeless mystery and beauty of India has been waiting for you for 5000 years, always warm and inviting, a place of infinite variety - one that favors you with different facets of its fascination every time you visit India.

visit the four corners of India

North India - Land of Romance

You’ve arrived at Delhi. The months of planning and curiosity are over; you’re actually in India. Every experience, every sound, every smell shouts that you’ve arrived somewhere magical, somewhere Special. It is here that the deep love of one man for one woman created the Taj Mahal; where the King of Kings ruled; where the sacred Ganges flows past holy cities; where the Himalayas stand silent and magnificent; where 5000 years of culture waits to be absorbed.

Delhi - the Old and the New

Delhi is above all an historic city, an elegant capital, content to leave to Calcutta and Bombay the roles of commercial and business supremacy. It is in fact really two distinct cities; the energy and colour and the thronged bazaars and Moghul architecture of Old Delhi contrast with the formal splendour of New Delhi, whose wide boulevards offer ever-changing perspectives of Lutyen’s landscaped city. Delhi has several world-famous luxury hotels, with the comfort and style to ensure relaxation after your journey; from here, set forth to experience the sights and sounds of the city. The gracious Red Fort, the Jama Masjid (the largest mosque in India), the Qutab Minar complex with its soaring tower - all are waiting to be explored. Allows some time to wander round the inexpensive modern shops and handicraft centres. Magicians and dancing bears entertain crowds in the marketplaces, while fortune tellers may offer glimpses of the future. The heat of the day gives way to balmy evenings; enjoy a meal in one of the many splendid restaurants, the exotic music of sitars and veenas and the subtle rhythms of the tabla accompanying the delicious cuisines from throughout the country. Flights and trains and buses run from Delhi all over north India, so it is always easy to reach the next destination.

The Romance of the 'Golden Triangle'

There are so many wonders in the area south of Delhi known as ’the Golden Triangle’; in this area is the sublime, world famous Mahal, the old ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, and the exotic pink city of Jaipur in Rajasthan. Agra can be visited first, as it is only 200 kilometres south of Delhi, Weep at the beauty of the Taj where love created the world’s most beautiful building, and spend a day wandering around the huge and truly magnificent Red Fort. Here the romantic emperor who built the Taj was imprisoned by his own son, and one can sit in the room where he died looking at his own masterpiece. The road from here leads to Fatehpur Sikri. The glorious Moghul courtyards and palaces conjure up dreams of the mysterious wonders of the past - a golden age of tragedy and love, the harem of beautiful wives enclosed in the women’s quarters, of powerful emperors, of magical prophesies and potent charms. Southeast of Delhi, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, are the sculptured temples of Khajuraho where enormous friezes of entwined human figures practice the ’arts of love’. Nowhere else in the world is mankind’s sensual nature celebrated in such intriguing and graceful tableaux. By now one will understand a tiny part of India, but even this will not prepare the traveler for the exotic fantasy of the State of Rajasthan. The region was controlled for thousands of years by a warrior race of honour and valour who would fight to certain death to protect their homeland, and the landscape is dotted with their impressive battle-scarred forts. A proud and beautiful people in their many-coloured garments will extend a warm welcome in this powerful land of kings. Nowadays, anyone can be a king or queen for a while by staying in a fairy-tale palace on one of the beautiful lakes in Udaipur. From here, the ’Arabian nights’ fantasy can be extended to magical Jaisalmer – a yellow city with every building radiating the colour of the sun. Every dream of’ riding a camel or seeing a tiger stalking in the distance will come to life in glorious Rajasthan.

The Timeless Ganga

It is commonly believed that bathing in the Ganges (Ganga) at certain holy places purifies the soul. The Ganges is a sacred and holy river, worshipped by the Hindus, and numerous holy towns line its banks, all waiting to be explored: Varanasi, Allahabad, Rishikesh and Hardwar are some of the more famous, and it is a delightful experience to mingle with the thronging crowd of pilgrims. This is yet another experience of India, no less fascinating and no less mysterious. It is uplifting to see one of the oldest religions in the world still so alive and passionately followed. The ’eternal’ city of Varanasi is quite different again a mass of winding narrow alleys and picturesque lanes full of colourful pilgrims, wandering sadhus (holy men), Hindu priests (Brahmins) giving offerings to the gods, sights and sounds all mingling with the aroma of incense wafting from ancient Hindu temples. In the clear early morning light pilgrims perform their devotions on the steps leading down to the river, women bathe discreetly in their colorful saris and groups of children, no less colourful with flashing smiles and dark shining eyes, play nearby. The delightful holy towns of Rishikesh and Hardwar can be visited in the way up to the cool of the mountains, the shimmering grandeur of towering peaks, the fragrant fresh air...

The Majesty of the Himalayas

On the journey towards the peaks of the Himalayas yet another totally different and magnificent experience beckons. Imagine standing alone in the top of the world with the swirling white clouds beneath you and yet another snowy ridge towering ahead. Journeys can easily be made to silvery Kashmir, cool and beautiful Shimla, or the lush green Kulu Valley, Relax sitting on the balcony of one of the beautiful hotels in the mountains, breathing in the clear mountain air and idly watching the sparkling river cascading down the mountainside. The ancient Moghul emperors, once the greatest dynasty on earth, devoted their entire resources to the task of complementing the natural beauty of Kashmir with gardens and waterways to create a ’Paradise on Earth’. Later, the British popularized the use of houseboats moored in the tranquil Nagin and Dal lakes. Many travellers join groups trekking into the heart of the Himalayas and return to laze in their houseboats. Shimla, the ’Summer Capital’ of India for the British, is a place designed for complete relaxation, a delightfully situated hill station retreat. Wander down the Mall, to watch the local people doing the same; breathe the pine scented air in the tall and beautiful forests with the sun casting light through the trees on the sparkling brooks. North of Shimla is the beautiful forested Kulu Valley, with its flowing rivers and flower strewn walks, known as the ’Valley of the Gods’. You can bite into a crisp apple plucked from one of the many orchards, or watch the local people in their homespun woollen clothes and bright Kulu caps drying apricots in the sun. So many wonders. So much to feel and see. So different. So exotic. Sri Paramahansa Yoganada, a famous Indian guru, observed how mankind is engaged in an eternal quest for that ’something else’ he hopes will bring him happiness, complete and unending. We don’t promise India will completely fulfill this, but she will certainly put you on a new and different path. You will never be quite the same again.

Sightseeing

The subcontinent of India lies in south Asia, between Pakistan, China and Nepal. To the north it is bordered by the world’s highest mountain chain, where foothill valleys cover the northernmost of the country’s 26 states. Further south, plateaus, tropical ruin forests and sandy deserts are bordered by palm fringed beaches. Side by side with the country’s staggering topographical variations is its cultural diversity, the result of the coexistence of a number of religions as well as local tradition. Thus, the towering temples of south India, easily identifiable by their ornately sculptured surface, are associated with a great many crafts and performing arts of the region. In the desert of Kutch, Gujarat, on the other hand, a scattering of villages pit themselves against the awesome forces of nature, resulting in Spartan lifestyles made vibrant by a profusion of jewellery and ornamental embroidery used to adorn apparel and household linen. In the extreme north is the high altitude desert of Ladakh. Local culture is visibly shaped by the faith – Buddhism – as well as by the harsh terrain. Yet another facet of Indian culture is observed in the colourful tribal lifestyles of the north eastern states of Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura and Manipur with their folk culture. In the central Indian states of Orissa and Madhya Pradesh, tribal village life has resulted in a variety of artistically executed handicrafts. India’s mountains provide skiing, river running, trekking and mountaineering.  

Its beaches provide lazy sunbathing as well as wind surfing and snorkeling, and its jungles provide shooting wildlife – with a camera. India’s history goes hack to 3,200 BC when Hinduism was first founded. Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Judaism. Zoroashtrianism, Christianity and Islam all exist within the country today. As a consequence of India’s size, the history of the country has seldom been the same for two adjoining territories, and its great natural wealth has lured a succession of traders and foreign influences to it, each having left their imprint in the country, however faint or localized. Thus, Chinese fishing nets in Kerala are a throwback to that country’s ancient maritime trade, while in the north, terra-cotta figurines of the centuries BC bear distinctly Greek traces. Modern India is home alike to the tribal with his anachronistic lifestyle and to the sophisticated urban jet-setter. It is a land where temple elephants exist amicably with the microchip. Its ancient monuments are the backdrop for the world’s largest democracy where atomic energy is generated and industrial development has brought the country within the world’s top ten nations. Today, fishermen along the country’s coastline fashion simple fishing boats in a centuries old tradition while, a few miles away, motor vehicles glide off conveyor belts in state-of-the-art factories.

West India - The Warm West

After the vibrant atmosphere of Bombay, allow the palm-fringed beaches of Goa to warm your spirit in the sun and relax your mind. Or meditate in cool and ancient Buddhist caves tunneled out of solid rock on the craggy hillsides - a dramatic contrast from the colourful fairs and festivals in unspoiled Gujarat. The choice is once again tremendous in this land that offers everything.

Mumbai - Gateway of India

There is a powerful life force at work in this thriving, modern commercial city, with its plate-glass skyscrapers and hectic colorful street life. The pace and confusion is vibrant, with businessmen hurrying to work, hooting traffic, fisherwomen in their bright sarees and ‘tiffinwallahs’ hurrying with their metal containers to deliver the businessman’s lunch direct from his home to his office. After relaxing on Chowpatty beach under the cool evening sky, sipping refreshing milk from a large green coconut, you will start to love Bombay. You will feel ready to visit the elegant and world famous Taj Mahal hotel for a delicious snack or drink while watching the sunset over the many boats in the harbour. In the luxury and quiet of a hotel room, sightseeing can be planned. Consider a visit to the lofty Hanging Gardens next door to the intriguing Towers of Silence; or maybe win a million at the beautiful Mahalaxmi Racecourse, one of the finest in India. A glamorous day visiting the famous Bombay film studios can be arranged, and perhaps a chat with one of the many film stars. Relive the ancient stories of the Hindu gods sculpted on the walls of caves at Elephanta. This well known island, where monkeys scamper across your path, is a short and pleasant boat ride from the famous landmark in Mumbai - the Gateway of India. When ready to leave this city of tycoons, commerce, skyscrapers and film stars, prepare for adventures of a very different kind which await at its doorstep.

The Magic Around Mumbai

There is so much choice and so many wonders to see around Bombay. Northwest lies Gujarat, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. The region is famous for exclusive garments and hand made silk saris, and for being the last refuge of the Asian lions, found deep in the Gir Forest. Join in with the village people in their brightly coloured costume rejoicing in one of the many festivals and fairs that abound in this state.  

Ahmedabad, the principal textile city of the country, is well known for the Sabarmati Ashram founded by Mahatma Gandhi, where his ideals of peace and non-violence are still promoted; visitors are welcome. As Jawaharlal Nehru observed, this great man of indomitable spirit was certainly ’not of the common clay that all of us are made of. Mahatma Gandhi’s birthplace can be seen at the fishing village of Porbandar. A greater and even more ancient wonder awaits east of Bombay in Maharashtra, where the thirty Buddhist caves at Ajanta which are cut into the steep face of a deep rock gorge sit in silent contemplation. Feel the aura and power left behind by the Buddhist monks living 2000 years ago.

 Compare them with the dynamism and energy radiating from the huge Hindu caves in nearby Ellora. Imagine the workers carving a way at solid rock on the hillside to form the thirty-four Hindu, Buddhist and Jain Caves with the stories of their religions and beliefs etched onto the walls. Stay at one of the cool and relaxing hill stations such as Matheran or Mahabaleshwar, popular with the inhabitants of Bombay. Take an evening stroll around the peaceful Bund Gardens in pleasant and airy Pune. All these adventures will entertain and fascinate in the magic and beauty around Mumbai.

Goa - Sun, Sand and Sea

Relax and experience the idyllic peace that only India can give in sunny Goa. If you have ever dreamt of a warm land of space and light, where the beaches stretch for silvery miles, where the glittering sea always beckons you, where the people are always smiling, where the succulent juice from a bite of ripe pineapples or papaya drips on your hot skin as you luxuriate lazily on the white sand, then Goa, a fascinating blend of Latin and Indian cultures, will be a place where the wish to linger will be overpowering.

 Decide when to sit in the shade under the palm trees sipping the feni, or lemonade, or when to return to the hot sand to deepen your tan, or when to swim in the cool refreshing water. What a problem.

 As well as being a place for relaxation, Goa is also lively and modern, with many westernstyle entertainments. there is a choice of luxurious hotels with plenty of night life, or simplicity and tranquility in one of the inexpensive, clean and comfortable rooms with their own charm, right on the beach. The Portuguese influenced food is mouthwatering. Choose massive fish steaks fresh from the sea or a wide and delicious choice of both continental and Indian dishes. Panaji, the capital, is an easy-going town with Portuguese styled cafes, whitewashed churches and overhanging balconies; a delight after your journey. 0ld Goa, east of Panaji, was once the capital of the eastern Portuguese Empire. Now, it is little more than a fascinating small village surrounded by huge convents and churches dedicated to the zeal of Christianity, including the Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus. The mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, who spread Christianity among the subjects of the Portuguese colonies, are entombed here. Which beach to choose from along the 100km long coastline of silvery sand. Possibly Colva with its warm turquoise sea and fishermen hauling in their nets by hand in the clear morning light as they chant an ancient sea song; or maybe sophisticated Aguada, with its jet-set beach and sixteenth century fort. Try the experience of a full-moon party at Anjuna, or mingle with the variety of people in Calangute selling handicrafts, jewellery and modern fabrics. Enjoy the old Portuguese fort in Chapora, surrounded by secluded and sandy beaches and dense green coconut palms. Visit all the beaches or just adopt one and make it your home. Wild boar and sambar in their natural habitat in the hills of the Western Ghats can be seen in Bondla, one of the Goan wildlife sanctuaries. In addition, the region is justly famous for its many colorful festivals, including Mardi Gras, celebrated with Christian fervour.

 There are so many delights in Western India and so many glorious choices; from the vibrant life of commercial Bombay to the home of the indomitable Mahatma Gandhi then down to the peace and magic of sunny Goa - the choice is yours.

South India - A Heritage of Centuries

The delightful south; almost untouched by invasions throughout its history, the Indian heritage is more intact here than in other regions of the country. This is a land of temples, a land of the devout where new wonders await - the profusion of orange flowers, the shade of the banyan tree, and the soft beat of distant drums as yet another festival starts...

Chennai - A Kaleidoscope of Moods

Chennai is the centre of the Hindu tradition of Bharata Natyam (classical dancing) the art of temple sculpture also comes from this part of the country, and gives expression to both the devoutness and the artistic skills of the Tamil people. Chennai is the home of the ancient Dravidian civilisation, one of the oldest articulate cultures in the world. It is a city where the landscape of the past lives easily with more recent history. This busy, efficient metropolis is a good centre to plan a journey over South India. Make use of the international and domestic airport and the massive network of trains and buses. The friendliness, sincerity and colourfulness of the people can slowly be absorbed while taking a stroll over the sandy stretch of beach known as the Marina, or visiting Fort St. George, built by the British East India Company. So many of the street names reflect the city’s long association with other cultures; China Bazar Road, Armenian Street, Portuguese Church Street for instance. In 78 AD, the Apostle St Thomas was martyred in the city, but the Christian faith now finds graceful expression in the many churches, particularly the San Thome Cathedral. View the whole panorama from the Chennai lighthouse, or experience the culture from ground level in the temples, art galleries or museums. Head off in any direction from Chennai – even east, across the Bay of Bengal by boat or plane to Port Blair in the Andaman Islands; a paradise archipelago, lush and forested, home of some of the most exotic plant-life in the world. The crystal clear waters shimmer with tropical fish, and the islands are famous for their corals and water-sports facilities. North of Chennai is the large state of Andhra Pradesh, rich in archeological and architectural treasures. The capital, Hyderabad, was once the seat of the fabled Nizams. The Charminar is a national symbol, and the Salar Jung Museum a rich repository of the Raj.

A Myriad of Temples

The devout Dravidian people of the south live and breathe their ancient religion. Nothing, however, can really prepare a visitor for the temples, where images of the quiet bustle of the vast halls, the huge gopurams completely covered by coloured sculptures of gods and goddesses, the sight of bare feet walking across cool slabs, the heady smell of incense and the chime of the temple bell rung by priests and the faithful leave entrancing impressions. Rustic carts drawn by oxen with their brightly coloured painted horns, smiling villagers harvesting the hay at the side of the road - these will be some of the memorable features of the short journey from Chennai to the famous temple town of Mahabalipuram. A swim off the glorious beach will refresh you after absorbing the wonders of the romantic shore temples and of Arjuna’s Penance, the huge rock carvings of animals and gods, There are so many impressive temple towns in South India - nearby Kanchipuram with its spectacular gopurams, ’ visible from miles away, or other magical sounding places - Chidambaram, Tanjore, Tiruchirapalli, and, most of all, the pilgrim centre of Madurai - one of the oldest cities in Southern India - with its dramatic and lively Meenakshi temple, dedicated to the fish-eyed goddess. Alternatively, for a different style of relaxation, visit the attractive French-style coastal town of Pondicherry, south of Chennai. In the neighbouring state of Karnataka lie the stone-carved temples of Belur and Halebid. Relive the exciting era of the Hoysalas, who flourished around the 12th century, by examining the endless stories which the sculptural detail portrays the war, the hunt, the animals, the dancing girls and, of course the gods. Situated on top of a hill in Sravanabelagola is the massive statue of Lord Bahubali, dwarfing the landscape. Lose yourself in the strange and beautiful ruins at Hampi. Visit Bangalore, the state capital, for another, different taste of Indian urban life; the city is affluent, bustling and vibrant and -splendidly adorned with trees, parks and gardens. It is also the most important centre of India’s ’nonsmoke’ industries, including aerospace, machine-tools and electronics. Further delights are waiting in the gracious sandalwood city of Mysore, where it is possible to stay in the one-time home of an ex-Maharajah, now the Lalitha Mahal Hotel of gleaming white beauty. Incense is manufactured in the city, and the sweet and fragrant smells of jasmine and rose and musk will linger in the air and in the memory.

The Warm Beauty

Kerala - land of surf, spice and magic, an ancient crossroads of cultures...Chinese fishing nets drawn up on the golden sand, Jewish synagogues, Portuguese forts, Dutch and Syrian churches, and of course beautiful Indian temples and palaces...backed by mountains, fringed with surf, rich in spice plantations and coconut palms, relaxed and tranquil under the warm tropical sun. Laze gloriously on the unspoiled and beautiful coconut beaches of Kovalam, India’s finest beach resort; or visit Cochin, with its beautiful waterfront, or Trivandrum, with the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the former rulers’ place of workshop; both towns are also memorable for their churches and museums. While in the area, move into the hinterland and hear the trumpeting of an elephant and the chatter of monkeys running wild in the green and watery Periyar Game Sanctuary. Inhale the pure fresh air from the height of the Nilgiri hills while absorbing the spectacular views in Ootacamund or Kodaikanal, perhaps followed by a gentle trip on the backwaters between Aleppey and Quilon, watching the villagers at work in the lush green paddy fields.

Joyous Dance of the South

A visit to the south may well coincide with one of the many magnificent festivals; if not, don’t worry, as there will usually be a celebration of some sort in every lively village here. The Bharata Natyam dance originated in the south; the rhythm of the music, the colours of the costumes and the grace of every stylised movement will spellbind the onlooker. Experience the beauty and elegance of the Kathakali mask dance, which depicts tales of the gods, heroes, demons and fabulous beasts of Indian legend, or the grace of Kalaipattu, the martial art of Kerala. Join the happy and smiling throng of revellers as fireworks explode into the night sky, brightly coloured flowers are scattered in the air, gloriously bedecked elephants and cows join the procession in the street, everyone dancing to the beat of the tabla sights and sounds all entwined with the haunting rhythm of ancient Sanskrit Mantras (chanting).

India awaits you

Kanya Kumari (Cape Comorin) in Tamil Nadu, India’s Lands End, washed by three seas, where at the time of the full moon it is possible to watch the sun set and the moon rise at the same time, a popular pilgrimage town, the end of the railway line ... from here to Jammu and Kashmir is over 3,300 kilometers, and the railway journey will take three days, passing through the whole staggering diversity of India – the great plains, towering mountains and rich forests, the serene temple towns and lively resorts, thriving cities, tranquil hill stations and tiny villages, the people, the history, the wildlife, the cultures... such a wealth of beauty and mystery and laughter in this graceful and gentle land. An experience both indescribable and unforgettable as only India can be. She is waiting for you, and has been for 5,000 years. All you have to do is arrive; the wonder of India - only nine hours away.

East India - Excitement and Tranquillity

In no time at all the stimulating bustle and heat of Calcutta is left far behind, opening out to the cool and luscious mountains of refreshing Darjeeling. Encounter the mighty range of the Himalayas in Sikkim, the one-horned rhinoceros in wonderful wildlife reserves, then dream of a forgotten age in the ancient holy towns on the plains of rural India.

Discover the Soul of Calcutta

Calcutta is the largest city in India, indeed one of the largest in the world. Established as a British trading post in the 17th century, the city rapidly grew, acquiring a life and vibrancy of its own. Its glory is still reflected in the buildings of Chowringhee and Clive Street, know as Jawaharlal Nehru Road and Netaji Subhash Road respectively. It is a city which leaves no-one indifferent-fascinating, effervescent, teeming with life, peoples, cultures. The impact can be a shock at first; the rickshaws, cars, brightly painted lorries, trolley buses, the cries of the street vendors, labourers hard at work on the construction of the vast underground railway, the noise and colour of the huge New Market, the bustle of the crowds...but soon the jumbled impressions will sort themselves out. Central Calcutta is best viewed in perspective around the rolling green of the Maidan, 3 square kilometres of parkland where the early-morning yoga sessions provide for the city dwellers a relaxation from the stresses of urban life. For relaxation of another kind, visit the Indian Museum, one of the finest in Asia. Other attractions include the huge white marble Victoria Memorial, the Octherlony Monument and the headquarters of the Rama Krishna mission. To the north of the city is the silent beauty of the Belur Math and, across the river, the Botanical gardens (with a 200 years old Banyan tree, reputedly the largest in the world) and the Kali temple of Dakshineshwar. Calcutta has a soul. The Bengalis are poets and artists of India and this has affected their city. Calcutta will certainly grow on you. For a complete change, take a plane or boat from Calcutta to Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the peaceful sun-soaked paradise in the Bay of Bengal.

The Magic of the Toy Train

For those who don’t wish to fly, try taking a train to Darjeeling from Calcutta. The last leg of the journey from New Jalpaiguri takes place on a miniature railway which winds through deep jungles, tea gardens and pine forests. It is one of the great journeys of the world. Darjeeling is an unspoilt, English-style hill station straddling a mountain slope and surrounded with high green hills covered with coniferous trees, with massive drops into the enchanting valley below. It commands a stunning view of Kanchenjunga (8586 metres), particularly from nearby Tiger Hill, and the sunrise which breaks over the mountains is one of the most beautiful on earth. Many Tibetan refugees live here, and it is also the home of the celebrated Sherpa Tenzing, as well as being the headquarters of the India Mountaineering Institute. The tea to which the town gives its name is the finest in the world; where better to sample it than here.

Invigorated by the fresh mountain air, stroll along the winding paths, marvelling at the views of the massive range of snowcapped peaks which appear in all their glory as the swirling mists clear. See the Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the breeze; it is possible to visit one of the Buddhist Monasteries, such as Ghoom which enshrines an image of the Maitreyee Buddha. Only two and a half hours away by bus or taxi is Kalimpong, a quaint bazaar town set in rolling foothills and deep valleys at the foot of the mighty Himalayas. There are several excursions from here to places which offer some of the finest panoramas in the world. To the north, the mountain state of Sikkim is a land of peace and tranquillity high up in the mountains. The capital Gangtok, on a ridge flanking the Ranipool River, is overshadowed by the Kanchenjunga, a truly spectacular sight that will imbue you with awe and wonder. Discover the ancient beautiful Royal Chapel of Tsuk-La Khana, or enjoy the profusion of wild flowers in bloom throughout the year. Here in orchid-strewn Sikkim the visitor becomes like an explorer who has found a forgotten land. Even further east are the states of ’Assam and Meghalaya. The state of Assam is famous for its tea, and also for its wildlife reserves which can be reached via the ancient and graceful state capital of Gauhati, situated on the river Brahmaputra. The tiger reserve of Manas is also rich in other varieties of wildlife, while in Kaziranga it is often possible to see one of India’s one-horned rhinoceros. Bordering Assam to the north is the beautiful mountain kingdom of Bhutan. Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is the home of the colourful Khasi people. The breathtaking views, the waterfalls, brooks and pine groves have all led to the state being popularly described as "The Scotland of the East"; Shillong also has one of the best golf courses in India. The landscape, the people and the climate all combine to make it an ideal holiday resort throughout the year.

Enchanting Holy Cities

Orissa, the eastern state of the Bay of Bengal, has a rich tradition of classical dance, music, silverware, handicrafts and sculpture. The three great temple towns of Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark constitute, like Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, a "Golden Triangle", but here with the emphasis strongly on temples – temples of the most glorious and stunning kind. Bhubaneswar is the capital of Orissa and the Temple City of India. Seven thousand temples once ranged around the sacred Bindusagar Lake in Old Bhubaneswar; about five hundred of them are still standing. The great Lingaraja Temple dedicated to the Lord Shiva is the largest of these, and is the site of a major Shivartri festival in February-March, on the night of the new moon. On the coast, south of Bhubaneswar, lies Puri, one of the four holiest Hindu cities in India and now also being developed as a beach resort; relax in the refreshing sea after wondering at the famous 12th century Jagannath Temple, the home of Lord Jagannath, the Lord of the World, "the Formless God". Many travellers try to be in Puri around June or July, when it is possible to join in one of India’s greatest festivals the spectacular Rath Yatra or "Car" Festival, when a concourse of pilgrims gather to pay homage to the images of the deity drawn on their massive wooden chariots. Splendidly alone amidst the sand dunes which rise from the blue waters of the bay, the Sun Temple of Konark marks the pinnacle of a great Kalinga achievement in temple architecture. It was built as a chariot for the Sun God, complete with wheels and horses. The sculpture is among the most stupendous in India. After seeing these, and so many other, remarkable sights, relax with the friendly people by the flat and beautiful Chilka Lake, or in the little beach resort of Gopalpur-on-Sea. The excitement and stimulation of busy Calcutta, the tranquillity and ecstatic beauty of the Himalayas, the dream-like quality of the ancient holy cities - what spectacular and varied offerings eastern India has to give.

NORTH EAST

Consisting of Assam, Meghalya, Mizoram, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Tripura and the state of Sikkim.

ACCESS:

Air: airports are Bagdogra, near Siliguri and Guwahati along with Tezpur, Jorhat, Lilabari and Dibrugarh and these have connections within the North East.

Rail: Fast and convenient rail connections to the gateway cities from both Delhi and Calcutta.

Road: Most of the north east is well connected. Though the distances are short, being hill areas, journeys could be time consuming but yet this may well be the best way to discover the land and its people.

HOTELS

The accommodation is modest but comfortable. State governments provide the main accommodation network in this area. Tented accommodation is also available for adventure tourism.

click here for our tours

click here to contact us to book now!