North India
From the snow-capped Himalayas to the arid deserts of Rajistan, from the sleepy hill-stations to the bustling cities, North India has so much for the traveller to see and do.
Part of the Asian mainland, North India has always been strategically very important. This is reflected by its long and colourful history. The Moghul emperors fought and won victories here and left their mark by erecting architectural masterpieces such as the Taj Mahal and Red Fort and the fearless Rajput rulers displayed their enormous wealth in their cities and opulent palaces.
North India has many large and contrasting cities yet the area is primarily rural and contains some of Asia’s most wonderful National parks with an amazing diversity of wildlife including snow leopards, primates, camels, yaks, cobras and of course India’s national animal – the Bengal Tiger.
For travellers wanting to experience the spiritual heart of North India, Varanasi, Bodhgaya and the upper reaches of the Ganges should not be missed. For architectural highlights then the Rajput and Moghul capitals of the Golden Triangle are the places to visit, perhaps also including the erotic carvings at Khajuraho. Trekkers will be in their element in the foothills of the Himalayas and wildlife enthusiasts can track tigers through Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh and Corbett National Parks. Absolutely everyone should also, at some time in their life, gaze upon that ‘teardrop on the face of time’ – the Taj Mahal.
