India's hidden gems

Where is this cable-car swooping to? And which city is that far below?

This is Gangtok, the largest city in Sikkim, a tiny state in the far north-east of India, tucked in amongst the Himalayas. What some would call a cable-car, is a 'ropeway' in this country. Spmehow that sounds so much more daring, doesn't it?

Darjeeling, Gangtok and Kalimpong are among the most popular destinations in India's North-East.

Darjeeling is a popular hill station in India's eastern state of West Bengal. It was once a summer resort for the British elite. Surrounded by beautiful tea gardens, it is known for awe-inspiring views of snow-capped mountains, colonial-era architecture, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Buddhist monasteries.

Wildlife tours to India has a special benchmark for Kaziranga National Park as it is the only national park reserve in India where the rhinoceros can be seen in its natural habitat for rhinos. One horned rhinos are internationally known as Great Indian One Horned Rhinoceros is heavily built beast of mammoth proportions, next to the Indian Elephant. It is the largest of the three Asian rhinos.

Kaziranga National Park is situated in Assam - the gateway to north-east India, dominated by rivers like Brahamputra and Barak - has suitable climate for rhinoceros to inhabit.

There are other sanctuaries and national parks - Manas National Park, GaramPani Wildlife Sanctuary and Pani Dihing Bird Sanctuary.

Shillong or Scotland of the East is one of the most romantic cities in the northeast with rows of pine trees, lush hills and quaint cottages reminiscent of the bygonr British era. The city's name comes from Leishyllong, the super God who resides on the Shillong peak, as if protecting the city.

In the Darjeeling, Assam and Dooars in Northeast India region, the world of tea has hardly changed in the past century.

Darjeeling Tea is widely and universally acknowledged to be the finest tea because of its unique flavour. Connoisseurs assert that without Darjeeling, tea would be like wine without the prestige of Champagne.

Tours include visits to picturesque tea gardens and tea estates, meeting planters and workers, experiencing local culture, and participating in tea-tasting or a stay in century-old colonial tea bungalow.

More information on tours in Assam...

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