India

by David Abram

Be inspired by our new edition of Insight Guide India, which shows you how to get the most out of this thrilling country. Our inspirational Best of India section illustrates its unique attractions, from the bright lights of Mumbai to the brilliant colors of Rajasthan, the ruins of ancient cities and the cool heights of the Himalayas. The first part of the book provides an essential introduction to India’s ancient civilisations, colonial history, and multi-layered contemporary society. Our lively essays on art and architecture, food and drink, performing arts, wildlife, and Bollywood provide the perfect backdrop to any visit. The Places section takes you on a journey through each of India’s regions, from Delhi and the Himalayas in the north to Chennai and Kerala in the south, as well the coral-fringed Lakshadweep, Andaman, and Nicobar Islands. All destinations are complemented by attractive, detailed maps linked to the key sights by numbered dots, and full-color photographs throughout bring this stunning destination to life. Lavish Photo Features offer a unique insight into India’s festivals, Hindu deities, its creaking railways, the ancient sites of Ajanta, Ellora and Hampi, cruising Kerala’s backwaters, and – of course – the Taj Mahal. At the back of the book, the Travel Tips section provides all the practical information you'll need to plan a memorable trip, as well as selective listings giving our writer’s pick of the best places to stay and eat.

496 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2013

About the author

Freelance travel writer David Abram was born and brought up in south Wales and the Mendip Hills of Somerset. His first foray into the Corsican mountains came in 1986, during the sabbatical year of a French degree, when he stumbled upon some waymarks and followed them blindly for two days until wild pigs polished off his supplies. Since then, as an anthropologist and author of the Rough Guide to India, he's walked extensively in the Himalayas, Europe and North America but still regards Corsica as a benchmark trekking destination.