May 3 2011
India
Exotic thoughts are conjured up whenever thinking of this marvellous country. Snake charmers, tigers, flavorsome curries, painted elephants, the Taj Mahal and the sacred River Ganges all spring to mind.
India’s National Parks include some of the best Bengal tiger habitat on the planet. You can spot the majestic cats at Ranthambhore, Kanha , Bandhavgarh, Corbett, Kaziranga and Panna. Being able to see your very first wild tiger is a truly awesome experience and a privilege. To see them in their natural environment is indeed much better than viewing them in a zoo or safari park. You can look at the tigers from jeeps or elephants if you join a guided trip.
India offers more creatures than just tigers. It’s got unique bird sanctuaries such as Bharatpur, where native and migratory wild birds alike can be viewed. India is really a birders heaven with over 1,249 species . From the Himalayan mountain regions to the Sunderbans mangrove forest delta, the land is special. It is home to some of the most sought after wild birds on this planet.
Another great wildlife location is Sasan Gir where the last remaining Asiatic lions retain a strong hold in Gujurat. They’re also referred to as Indian lions and have played a significant part in Indian folklore and society for thousands of years. Generally smaller than their African cousins, the largest Asiatic lion has still been recorded at an imposing 2.9m long!
India is famous for its curries. An genuine Indian curry is a blend of onion, garlic, ginger, tomatoes and spices with meat; poultry, fresh vegetables or fish. The amazing flavours in Indian cuisine are derived from spices and nutritious foods such as leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, grains and legumes. A lot of spices used in Indian cooking were originally selected thousands of years ago for their healing qualities rather than their flavour. Many such as cloves, turmeric and cardamon are antiseptic. Others such as ginger are great for digestion. All Indian curries are created by using a wide variety of spices.
A visit to India is an opportunity to check out the stunning Taj Mahal – one of the most beautiful representations of a husband’s eternal love for his wife. Comissioned by Shah Jahan for his third spouse Mumtaz Mahal who died during childbirth, it is the place where the bodies of both today lie. The architecture of the white marble mausoleum is stunning. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and beautiful by daylight or by moonlight. A must see for all.
The River Ganga, or the Ganges as it is also known, is a greatly important river. Originating in the snow covered peaks of the Gangotri Glacier in Uttaranchal, the Ganges is formed from six rivers.It is the lifeline of one of the most populated nations on the planet. It is holy to Hindu’s and the place where many want to be cremated. Many wash and bathe in it and there’s a continual traffic of boats transporting merchandise and passengers alike.
India is a fascinating country with so much to experience. Once you’ve witnessed some of the scenery, smells and sounds of India, they will tempt you to visit again and again!
If you can’t afford India this year, why not try a staycation. Check out some Dorset cottages and Cornwall cottages and try a holiday in the south of England.
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