Berlitz Handbook India is the ultimate practical, inspirational guide to this fascinating destination, with 304 pages combining authoritative narrative detail and stunning color photography. What sets the guide apart is the illuminating Unique Experiences section, packed full of practical advice on how to make the most of all the opportunities unique to India - from spotting tigers to stretching at a yoga retreat, or joining in the celebrations at a colorful festival.
The guide starts with a rundown of India's Top 25 Attractions, ranging from the splendors of the Taj Mahal to the atmospheric Varanasi ghats. In the Trip Planner you'll find itineraries outlining how best to maximise your time in the sub-continent, whether you have two weeks to travel India's "Golden Triangle" of Delhi, Agra, and Rajasthan, or five weeks to explore the heights of the Himalaya.
The Places Section tackles each of India's regions in turn - starting with the historic but forward-looking capital of Delhi and finishing up in the lush backwaters of Kerala. Each chapter is color-coded for easy reference, and features everything you'll need to know about the sights and attractions in the area as well as maps to help you get around and carefully chosen listings of the best places to sleep, eat, drink, and get active. The Places section is interspersed with fully mapped tours, suggesting walks including around the Red Fort and Qutb Minar sites in Delhi and among the atmospheric ruins of Hampi, and Cultural Spreads that give a striking insight into an element of India's artistic, popular or religious culture, from Bollywood in Mumbai to pilgrimages in the northwest Himalaya.
Further practical advice is provided in a chapter dedicated to accommodations, transportation, health and safety, money and budgeting, responsible travel, and family holidays. The Setting the Scene chapter is devoted to India's historical and cultural background, plus information on the country's cuisine.
Finally, a handy 8-page Phrasebook section provides a wealth of language expertise for which the Berlitz brand is famous.
