Spotlight: India

The scent of jasmine perfumes the air … the taste of turmeric and saffron spices tantalizes your tastebuds … the sound of horns honking competes with sitar buskers … the touch of marble inlay defines century-old temples. A true feast for the senses, India is a culturally rich destination that simply must be experienced firsthand. Words and photographs do not do this vibrant, storied nation justice.
 
The streets of bustling Old and New Delhi are steeped in traditions that shine through in daily life. Wind through streets equally packed with rickshaws and sacred cows. Visit bazaars touting spices, jewel-colored saris, and intricately painted silk screens.
 
Watch the sunrise at Agra’s architectural masterpiece: the Taj Mahal. This perfectly symmetrical mausoleum is the ultimate tribute to enduring love and is made with white marble and precious gemstones.
 
Explore Jaipur, the “pink city”, home to Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and Amber Fort. The elaborate hilltop fortress and UNESCO site features a labyrinth of courtyards, mirrored mosaics, and manicured gardens.
 
Satisfy your desire for a safari in Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park. This former stomping ground to India’s most powerful maharajas is the place to spot a spectrum of wildlife including the elusive tiger, sloth bears, and mythical-looking nilgai.
 
Practice yoga and meditation in Varanasi, a pilgrimage site for Hindus, and witness a spiritual Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset along the ghats of the Ganges River. Here, visitors lay garlands of marigolds or burn incense to honor deities such as Shiva and Ganesha. This region is also the birthplace of Ayurveda, an alternative medicine system attributed to Dhanvantari, the Hindu god of medicine.
 
India is sure to engage all your senses and beckon you to return for more. Let TS unveil its many wonders ...