The British empire may have ceased to exist, but its echoes  linger on in Shimla (2130m). As the 'summer capital' of the British in India, this was the country's focus for the better part of every year and now, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Today, its well developed facilities, easy accessability and numerous attractions make it one of India's most popular hill resorts. Placed in the lower range of the Himalaya mountains, it is surrounded by pine, deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. Shimla holds a variety of shopping, sport  and entertainment.

JODHPUR

The imperial city, replete with amazing legends of romance and heroism. A land where the past thrives still.. This is the fortified city of Jodhpur, standing a wary sentinel to the great Thar Desert. Beckoning you to the wilderness of fascinating dunes, rocky terrain and thorny vegetation.

Once the capital city of the Marwar state, is is founded in 1459 by Rao Jodhaji - chief of the Rathore Clan of Rajputs who claimed descent from Lord Rama. A major trade center of 16th century, the city, today has grown to become the second largest city of Rajasthan, retaining the medieval splendor.

VARANASI

The antiquity of Varanasi is veiled an immortal time. An 'eternal' city, it abounds with a rich and vibrant past. Varanasi is another holy dot on the life giving Mother Ganges. As a religious center, it is beyond compare. It is one of the foremost 'tirthas' (place of pilgrimage).

Varanasi, as the legend goes was created by Shiva, the cosmic lord. It figures prominently in the epic Mahabharat. Puranic literature dates its existence to at least three millennia. Varanasi has been a great center for learning and civilization and is sacred to Hindus. It has an endearing universal mystique which has to be experienced to be understood. 

KANNIYA KUMARI:

The southernmost tip of peninsular India, is where the waters of the Bay of Bengal, the Indian ocean and the Arabian Sea meet. A place from where one can see spectacular sunrises and also colorful sunsets! On balmy evenings, one can watch  the sun set while a full moon is rising in another part of sky!

There is a temple dedicated to the virgin goddess Kanniya Kumari picturesquely located close to the sea shore. According to legend, it is here that the goddess Parvati undertook penance to gain the hand of Lord Shiva in marriage. The beautifully adorned deity has a sparkling diamond nose ring that is supposed to be visible even from the sea.