India
The Republic of India; second most populous country in the world, the most populous liberal democracy in the world and former British colony. Its slogan, ‘Unity in Diversity’ sums up the country rather well, and its citizens are deeply proud of this fact. All of the world’s major religions put in an appearance here, the best represented being Hindu (hence the many ‘sacred’ cows causing traffic jams in the capital, New Delhi!) as well as Muslims, Christians and Buddhists.The hustle and bustle is virtually constant, but there are always peaceful, spiritual spots that you can escape to easily. With a population of over 1 billion (2004 est.) it’s not really a surprise that it’s a bit noisy!
Most tourists head to India for the Golden Triangle, encompassing Delhi, Agra (Taj Mahal) and Jaipur, but there is so much more. Visit Mumbai to witness Bollywood, Darjeeling for a taste of the British Raj or head to the East to Varanasi, the Hindu Holy City to see the Goddess Ganga in the form of the Ganges River and the ceremonies performed from the ghats on the riverbanks. These three only break the surface! Get a decent guidebook for a load more information.
Getting There
You will need to arrange your flights into Jaipur Airport where you will be met and taken to your accommodation before you have your orientation the following day. (Arrival outside the stipulated hours will result in a special taxi pick up needing to be arranged at an extra charge).
Climate
India’s climate generally has three seasons, which may vary from region to region. The hot season roughly beginning in February in the North and peaking in June can reach up to and above 45 Celsius in some areas, mostly in the centre of the country. You can expect Delhi to have temperatures at the high end of the 30’s.
Monsoon season means steady rain for the whole country from the beginning of July.It stays pretty hot, and though it doesn’t rain all day, it does generally rain everyday. The Monsoon causes muddy conditions at best but serious flooding is also a threat. The cool season is the optimum time to travel in India, as it is not too hot and not too cool. In the winter it does get surprisingly cold in the Northern regions, whereas in the south the temperatures are beautiful.
