New Delhi Agra Jaipur Mandawa Bikaner
New Delhi, Delhi
Highlights: It's a mega contrast between rich and poor. India's teeming capital city is home to centuries of fine buildings - and unexpected parks. They say over the centuries since the Mughals first invaded seven
Delhi's have been built on different hills beside the Yamuna river. It means there's so much to see and to do you can get overwhelmed by the choice - but one thing's for sure, you won't be bored. The building's still going on - a metro is rapidly connecting parts of this sprawling city. But while travelling through the streets in a cycle- or auto-rickshaw can be slightly hair-raising it's still one of the best ways to see the city - bargain and agree the price before you set off.
It's no surprise to find old, older and newest. As befits the country's capital and a rapidly-expanding economy there's no shortage of modern among the ancient. Pizza, Chinese and burger-style fast food are all big in Indian cities but for something a little different how about Murgh Doner (spicy Indian chicken in a kebab-style wrap) from Fusion? - It's near the entrance to Greater Kailash 1 Market, where you can browse the small shops and the market hall.
When to Go: "The best time to visit
New Delhi is during the spring seasons of February to April and August to November.
Delhi wears a festive look between February and April, the blooming season. Summers in
Delhi are very hot and it is not recommended to visit it during May, June or July."
Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Highlights: Agra is famous as being home to one of the seven wonders of the world-the Taj Mahal. The architectural splendour of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid reminder of the capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries.
When to Go: The beauty of Agra can be appreciated best in the cooler months, between October and March.
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Highlights: Settled in the rugged hills of the Aravallis, Jaipur is the pristine jewel in the desert sands of Rajasthan. Jaipur is as remarkable for its marvellous architecture as it is for its lively people.
When to Go: Winter (October-March) is best. The monsoons too pass muster. Off-season summer, when it is very hot, is when most resorts offer best value packages.
Mandawa, Rajasthan
Highlights: In the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan lies the beautiful small town Mandawa, known throughout the state for its forts and havelis. The structures of this place reminds one of the cultural and social hotspot this place used to be in the bygone era.
When to Go: Mandawa has an extreme climate. The summers can be very hot with the mercury touching 40.5°C, whereas winters can be chilly and the temperature can fall below 10°C. The best season to visit this place is winter i.e. October to March.
Bikaner, Rajasthan
Highlights: Rajasthan is a state where tradition and royal glory meet. It is a land rich in music, Dance, Art & Craft and Adventure, a land that never ceases to intrigue & enchant.
When to Go: Preferable to travel during the winter months, as summer is a real scorcher. September to March is the right time.