India; everyone wants a piece. From Aryan, Afghani and Persian invasions to the British era, people from distant lands have sought to possess India's treasures for themselves. But a funny thing always happens: India takes these foreigners and makes them Indians. Defying the doctrine of 'us' and 'them', India weaves races, cultures and philosophies into a tapestry that grows richer and more intricate every day. To experience India is to share in the sorrows, dreams, tribulations and almost unbearable joy of a billion fellow human beings. Fear not: India will make you her own, too.

Best time to visit

November to March, when it's cooler.

Essential Experiences

Watching the sunrise at the Taj Mahal; floating to Udaipur's Lake Palace; kicking back on a Goan beach; taking a camel safari in Rajasthan; relaxing in a Shimla hill-station resort.

In a few words, India is

Cows in streets, snake charmers, world's largest slums, Bollywood, maharajahs in palaces, rickshaws, gods and goddesses and computer geeks.

Did you know?

India's cities have killer nightlife scenes, most food isn't spicy hot, English is the de facto national language and for the most part Hindus and Muslims live together peacefully.