North India
Gujarat
India's most westerly state is blessed with a wild and deserted coastline, countless palaces and holy Jain temples which attract white-robed pilgrims in their thousands. The desolate wilderness of the Kutch region, home to the wild ass, has a rich tradition of tribal arts and crafts and the finest hand-made embroidered textiles are produced here. The last remaining Asiatic Lions roam free at Sasan Gir National Park. The most remarkable thing is how few tourists visit this spectacular region.
Rajasthan
The most majestic and romantic of all the Indian states is Rajasthan. Its colourful history makes it as intriguing as it is dramatic. Its diversity ranges from the striking desert landscape, where the only flashes of colour are the bright saris worn by the village women, to the dense forest of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve. It is a myriad of bustling markets and colourful festivals, royal castles, princely palaces, and stories of the chivalry, romance and bravery of the Rajput warriors. Despite its popularity it should not be missed for anyone visiting North India for the first time.
Punjab
The glistening Golden Temple of Amritsar is the main draw. Shimmering in the heat haze, the temple's huge kitchens feed thousands of pilgrims on a daily basis. A continual religious chant rings out throughout the day and the evening puja sees a fervent procession of Sikh worshipers celebrate the holy book as it is ceremonially "put to bed" for the night - a truly memorable experience.
Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, the holiest city of learning and pilgrimage is located on the banks of the sacred River Ganges. Pilgrims and ascetics in their thousands flock here year round. Fertility ceremonies and cremations take place on the ghats, or steps that lead down to the water, symbolising the cycle of life so integral to Hinduism. In the western part of the state is Agra home to the Taj Mahal. The eternal monument to love and loss is best seen at sunset or sunrise when the white marble is ever changing with the light and always manages to exceed expectations.
