Weaving a rich cultural tapestry this Diwali

India's geography, history and ancient civilisation provide an incomparable experience

India, the largest democracy in the world, is a country to savour as it is. Home to the white tiger and the Asiatic lion, it is an open museum where you can experience aristocratic palaces, enjoy elephant rides and explore the country by rail. Warmth and hospitality are important components in this land where the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea join together.
India's uniqueness is its enormous diversity reflected in the numerous languages spoken, and in the variety of beliefs, customs, diet and dress. However, this rich cultural tapestry has several unifying factors. In fact, the geography, history and an ancient civilisation provide a thought-provoking learning experience at every stage.
India's strategic geographical location, at the crossroads between the east and west, developed infrastructure, and direct air link to important cities of the world add to its attraction. Thus, its tourism product is a mixture of monuments, beaches, mountains, festivals like Diwali, wildlife and adventure - experiences that will continue to linger in one's mind long after it's over.
Shopping is an important aspect not to be missed. Department store promotions, food festivals and bazaars are examples of focused promotions to create a positive image of India. Handicraft emporiums offer a year-round shopping fare, where art from different states of India are showcased.
There is also a growing market for health tourism as more and more people are focusing their attention on a healthy lifestyle. With the increased number of resorts in Goa, Kerala and Karnataka, you can enjoy Ayurvedic treatment and yoga at competitive rates, and plan relaxation and rejuvenation tours as well.
Golfing in India is another venture that has come a long way. What makes it exciting is the diversity of its courses. Not only does India have the oldest golf club in the world outside the UK, but also the highest golf course at Gulmarg (2,700 metres) in Jammu and Kashmir.
The real beauty of the Himalayan mountains lie in its flowers, the forests of pines, deodar, oak and fir, rivulets with crystal clear waters, and meadows. One can experience all this and more by booking a rail journey from Delhi to Shimla.
The scenic islands of Andamans and Lakshadweep are well-known for scuba diving, snorkelling and high-valued water sports. White water rafting has also emerged as a really big adventure activity in the country. The main centre for this activity is Rishikesh and its surrounding areas like Shivpuri.
Are you looking for a new experience in India? Enchanting Kerala with its mist-capped mountains, rich green plantations of tea, coffee, rubber and spices, tranquil waters, whispering coconut palms and ripples of serenity beckon you.
Goa is another destination not to be missed. You can enjoy its music, cuisine, boat cruise, monuments, dramatic sunsets, and for people with adventure on their minds, lot of water sports.
Wildlife tours are in great demand during the November to June period. The Corbett National Park, which is about 300 kilometres from Delhi is a great hub for wildlife enthusiasts. Hyderabad and Bengaluru are popular with Arabs, while many travellers prefer Bengaluru for its climate and peaceful atmosphere.
Rajasthan with its palace hotels, forts, adventure safaris, and excellent shopping opportunities continues to be a hotspot.
India is in the process of developing other products like adventure tourism which is catching on. Rafting on the rivers of the Himalayas is becoming popular. India also hopes to build on its tourist attractions through traditional monuments.
India as a destination fulfils the five senses, sights and sounds of India, taste, visual pleasure, bargains, great heritage, and affordability - the perfect ingredients for a great holiday.
suchitra@khaleejtimes.com