An introduction to India
Whether in search of sun or snow, India offers everything required for excellent hjolidays. Beautiful coastal villages line the south, heating the body and the mind, whilst further north are the Himalayas, the range housing the worlds tallest mountain; Mt. Everest, which is a location for seriously adventurous holidays. India contains desert, cities, rivers and coasts, all of which boast superb scenery, whatever the weather. The various empires that have ruled India become apparent with just a little exploration, history is easy to unravel and examine.
Highlights of Indian holidays
The various cuisines are fantastic, Indian chefs cook incredible dishes using a palette of exotic spices such as saffron and aniseed. The cities boast the majority of restaurants, as well as the major hotels. A main sight in Indian cities are the colours, many different vibrant styles catch the eye and tourists must adapt quickly to the amazing display of the spectrum. Both Buddhism and Hinduism root themselves in India leaving great marks on the culture of the country, which can make holidays absolutely fascinating. The air is tinted with jasmine and the various spices of the land, whilst silk saris and turbans are worn by the locals, displaying the cultural Indian traditions.
Arriving at India
India's capital city Delhi, as well as other major cities such as Mumbai (Bombay), get frequent Flights from most major UK airports. The major Indian airports receive dozens of flights every day from a variety of major British airports. Airlines that travel the 4000 mile (6400 km) distance between London and India include British Airways, Jet Airways, Virgin and Air India, to name just a few. The medium-haul flights can take as little as 8 and a half hours.
An insight into India's cultural history
Alexander the Great's empire, as well as those of the Mauryas and Guptas have all touched India and left their different marks. Caesars and Pharaohs have had their impact on the country, The invasion of the White Huns had a huge impact on the country until Islam created many new kingdoms, most of which still exist. Sultans have ruled, as have Mogul Emperors, who then were defeated by the Marathas. No sooner had India regained control from the Marathas, the British turned up, and not until 1947 did India finally regain and hold it's independence. Holidays in India can reveal as many of it's historical secrets as visitors would care to explore; though the country will always have more.
