India

India is not only to be read about – it must be experienced. Everything about India is a journey in sensation: the food, the music, the art, the dance, the colors, the scenery, the very sights, sounds and smells. India is remarkable for its diversity as well, both in geography and culture, varying widely from north to south and throughout the country's 26 states. From the mountains in the north, which border on the world's highest, to the south, where plateaus, deserts and rain forests are bordered by hot, sandy beaches. Although it depends somewhat on where you plan to visit, generally the best time to see India is in the winter, from November to mid-February, during the cooler and drier months. India offers a wide choice of adventure sports, including heli-skiing, white-water rafting, scuba diving, mountaineering, bungee jumping and safaris, whether by jeep, bike, horse, elephant or camel. As you travel through India from the large cities of New Dehli and Mumbai to the small, tribal villages, and everything in between, you'll encounter cultures just as varied as the geography, heavily influenced by the many religions and traditions. This country is changing rapidly with increased outsourcing and economical expansion, but it is so vast that the changes won't reach small, remote areas for generations. Many contrasts exist between the modern, technologically advanced manufacturing facilities and the independent fishermen and village craftsmen. From the Taj Mahal to a village tribal dance festival, there is beauty and color to be seen, experienced and absorbed in every corner of this fascinating country.