Vast, diverse, deeply spiritual and utterly unforgettable, India is unlike anywhere else on earth – a melting pot of ethnicities and religions, a treasure trove of history and culture, and a curious mixture of chaos and serenity. Stretching across more than three million square kilometres, it encompasses a staggering array of landscapes, vistas and environs, and offers unparalleled travel experiences – from the beautiful beaches of Goa, to the compelling craziness of Kolkata, the sacred Ganges river banks of Varanasi, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in Kashmir and the ancient, exquisitely crafted temples dotted across the entire country. Not to mention the vibrant, friendly people, and the incredible cuisine.
Set within the heart of Assam state in India, Kaziranga National Park is one of the last areas in eastern India undisturbed by human presence and inhibited by the world's largest population of the renowned one-horned Rhinoceros. This world heritage site, bordering the southern banks of the Brahmaputra River, boasts many protected wildlife species, including one of the largest populations of tiger in the world, as well as large breeding populations of elephant, water buffalo, swamp deer and an abundance of birdlife. The extensive grasslands, forested highlands, marshes and flood plains are a wildlife and nature lover’s paradise. Don't miss out on an Elephant Safari, as it is the best way to get up close and personal with the park’s famous rhinoceros.
Visitors to Nagaland can explore a hidden paradise of verdant hills and valleys, where time stands still, and the traditional Naga lifestyle continues to thrive in its villages. As one of India’s least populated states, it is known as the ‘wild east’ because of its untamed terrain. To get a taste of traditional life, head to the Naga Heritage Village and see examples of authentic Naga homes crafted with wood and bamboo. If you want to learn more about Nagaland’s history, trace your way back to Kohima War Cemetery and pay your respects to over 1400 British, Indian, and other Allied soldiers who fell in battle against Japanese invaders during WWII. And for more regional flavours, don’t miss the bustling central market outside the Kohima Local Ground stadium, off Razhü Junction, which offers some of Nagaland’s local delicacies. With breathtaking views from its stunning ridges, Nagaland awaits to be discovered.
The north-eastern state of Meghalaya (meaning ‘abode of clouds’ in Sanskrit) is an explorer’s dream come true – it boasts many fascinating natural wonders, including roughly 1000 caves. The best known of these can be found near the town of Cherrapunji in the East Khasi Hills district. Aside from being regarded as the ‘wettest place on earth’, it is home to the Krem Mawmluh cave, which extends for seven kilometres, and consists of five river passages and stunning calcite formations, and the Krem Phyllut cave, famous for its narrow entrance way, and massive halls and galleys.
