The myriad tapestry of India is a heady mix of rugged mountains, pristine beaches, lonely desert patches, impenetrable forests, throbbing wild life, magnificent architecture and holy shrines. Covering the country in a short vacation can be quite a challenge, but with the right information and guidance, a trip to India can be a truly exhilarating experience

          India can be explored through a host of travel options available through the print and electronic media. From a lonely trek traversing the world’s highest mountains, to a pilgrimage circuit covering the holiest of shrines, or a weekend at the spice farm in Kerala to a camp by the lakeside in Himachal, Indian travel guides can cover them all.

          While the dense railway network in the country is legendary, the booming aviation sector has facilitated air travel in India to many smaller and remote towns in the last couple of years through low budget airlines, cutting down on travel time. The booking of on-line train tickets in India to all destinations has ensured that the “rail yatra” is a smooth joyride, while the highway expansion projects to distant locations have made mountain tops like the Marsimik La Pass at over 18,632 ft in Ladakh accessible for the adventure-inclined.

          The tourist is spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting his accommodation in India. As branded low budget and economy hotels in India begin to make a mark on the tourist circuit, travellers can select between guest houses, chalets, cottages and farmhouses, safari lodges, vacation homes and campgrounds to pitch their tents.

          While professionally managed car services are provided by established car rental companies in India which operate a large fleet of luxury cars, sedans, SUVs and economy cars, a choice of independent cab services is  also freely available at every location.

          With such a variety of physical landscapes and consequently, the diverse climates to offer, India can be traveled in throughout the year. Whereas locations in North India like Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana are ideal between November and March when the easing temperatures make day outings a blessing, coastal areas of Goa, Maharashtra, Orissa and Kerala can be enjoyed from June to October when the south west monsoons lash the shores, and in the winter months when the weather is just perfect.

          The mystic South of India is best explored between November and February, when the sun’s rays are least harsh. And, if you happen to be in India between April and June, head straight for the hills in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal, Uttaranchal, North Bengal, and Sikkim for that truly divine experience.