India
India
India, a mystical land diverse, complex and overflowing with an abundance of many different experiences. Home to one sixth of the worlds population, a country full of rich history and a religion that has brought with it unique life long traditions. A history that through the ages has created great temples, palaces and monuments to explore. The bustling cities of Mumbai and New Delhi, the snow capped Himalayan mountains and palmed fringed beaches, India is a country of contrasts where old meets new and blend together as the past and modern day collide in a myriad of colours and spices. We believe India is an experience, not just a vacation.
Delhi - Golden Triangle
Delhi is a city of two faces, Old Delhi survives from the days of the Mughal era and New Delhi, built during the days of the British Raj. Each has it own distinct flavor to explore.
Delhi is a good starting point to visit the Golden Triangle which brings to mind the Taj Mahal in Agra which in itself is a majestic, awe filled wonder, but your stop should also include the magnificent Fatehpur Sikri, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Rajasthan incorporates the Pink City of Jaipur, one the hub of Indian Royal Families, the City of Lakes Udaipur and Jodhpur also know as the Blue City. Stunning numbers of ancient palaces, many now hotels, dot the landscape along with colorful cities and lots of unique opportunities to get to know India.
Mumbai
Formerly called Bombay, Mumbai is a cosmopolitan hub on the west coast and India's largest city. Home of the famous Bollywood film industry, Mumbai simply throbs with life and is a stark contrast and contradiction with the wealthiest people living right next door to the poorest in the country. Elephanta Island, a short boat ride out into the harbor beholds ancient caves temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva
Religion & Tradition
India has a diversity of religious beliefs and practices. The birthplace of four of the world's major religions, the country is predominantly Hindu and religion is an important part of the culture. A secular state, religious tolerance is the law and custom in India. Yoga, meditation and Ayurvedic medicine are just some of the customs the world has adopted and embraced from Hindu philosophy.
Himalayan Mountains
The Himalayan range covers the northern portion of India and prevents the frigid Siberian winds from entering India. Hiking in the Har Ki Doon Valley during summer season with lofty mountains and Himalayan blossoms surrounding you is an amazing opportunity for the adventurous. For a more leisurely stay with amazing views try Wildflower Hall in Shimla and breath some of the freshest air in the world.
Cuisine
Indian cuisine is popular the world over, London has some of the best Indian restaurants in the world. While many consider Indian food spicy, it is more the use of spices that tend to make people think this way. Flavorful, colorful and a joy to the taste buds, Indian food is delicious. In the Hindu religion the cow is sacred so beef is taboo. India is one of the best places in the world to be a vegetarian where lentils are a staple ingredient.
Renowned for its tea, India has numerous tea plantations and the flavors vary from region to region depending on the soil and weather, much like wine. Take time to visit a plantation and perhaps even pick your own leaves, consider an overnight and a chance to learn how to make a proper cup of tea.
