India Wildlife  In the past few decades the Indian Government has taken serious steps to improve environmental management and has established over 350 parks, sanctuaries and reserves, some to much international acclaim. The highlights of India's fauna are its tigers, leopards, panthers, elephants and rhinoceroses, but the country is also home to a rich variety of deer and antelope, wild buffalo, massive Indian bison, shaggy sloth bears, striped hyenas, wild pigs, jackals and Indian wild dogs. Monkeys include rhesus macaques, bonnet macaques and long-tailed common langurs. The reptilian world boasts magnificent king cobras, pythons, crocodiles, large freshwater tortoises and monitor lizards. The birdlife is diverse and prolific …an ornithological paradise. Map of India Climate The best time to visit India is between October and March. Basically India has a three-season year - the hot, the wet and the cool. The heat starts to build up on the northern plains around February and by April it is very hot. The first signs of the monsoon appear in May with high humidity and tropical storms. The monsoon rains begin around June in the extreme south and sweep north to cover the whole country by early July.The main monsoon ends around October, and India's northern cities become crisp at night in December. In the far south, where it never gets cool, the temperatures are comfortably warm rather than hot. Cultural Highlights - Northern India The northern region of India offers the traveller a host of sightseeing and excursions. The most famous sight in the whole of India is considered be the Taj Mahal in Agra. To watch the sunset over this timeless monument to love is a must. Enroute from Delhi to Agra a visit to the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri is highly recommended. Northern Indian cities are full of colourful markets where bargaining for local artefacts can be great fun. Exploring the attractions near Jaipur - the Palace of the Winds, Jantar Mantar observatory and Amber Fort - is a photographers delight. If you like spa's then Ananda in the elevated and cooler foothills is a special place. Wildlife safaris to spot tiger and rhino at Ranthambhore and hill walking, rafting and fishing in the Himalayas are also a delight.   Cultural Highlights - Southern & Central India  The largest and busiest city in India is Mumbai - formerly known as Bombay. The city affords visitors a wealth of opportunities for sightseeing from a boat trip to the Elephanta Caves to exploring the colourful and pungent Crawford market. A complete contrast to the furious pace of life in the cities is unwinding in Goa. Explore the colonial churches or just relax on one of the sandy beaches. Further south still are the quite back-waters of Kerala. An excursion onboard a traditional Keralan rice boat along the canals is one of life's more relaxing journeys.   Traveller's Tips Clothing is very informal with lightweight cotton garments being the best option. When visiting temples wear sandals as you will often be required to go barefoot. Being such a large country we suggest a three or four centre holiday in either the north or south, as attempting to see the whole country in one visit is not advised. India can be trying at times, take a deep breath and be patient.    Festivals & Holiday Dates  Diwali (Deepavali) is one of the big nationwide festivals and lasts five days beginning normally in November. Independence Day 15 August, the country winds down and celebrates by flying colourful kites. Republic Day 26 January, colourful marches; cultural shows and tribal traditions showcased in all major cities. Holi, the day after full moon in March was originally to celebrate good harvests but is now a celebration of a legend from Hindu Mythology.   Visas  Six month multiple-entry visas are now issued to most nationals regardless of whether you intend staying that long or re-entering the country. Be careful to check whether your visa is valid from the date of entry or the date of issue.    Health risks  Cholera, Dengue Fever, Hepatitis, Malaria, Meningococcal Meningitis (This occurs in trekking areas only), Typhoid   Electricity 230-240V ,50Hz    Time Difference  GMT + 5 hrs and 30 mins    Currency The local currency is the Indian Rupee. Cash and Traveller's Cheques are easily exchanged in the larger cities. ATMs are becoming increasingly numerous.   Flights Daily flights from London Heathrow with British Airways. Currently a night flight out and a day flight back. Flying time approx. 8 hrs 30 mins to 9 hours depending on your point of entry.