India is as spectacular and as diverse as a Bollywood movie - colourful, exuberant, exciting and loud. This top-selling guide is better than any blockbuster at conjuring up the highlights, be it soaring Himalayan peaks or sun-soaked Keralan beaches.

The story begins with a classic travel adventure: Tony and Maureen Wheeler's 1972 journey across Europe and Asia to Australia. There was no useful information about the overland trail then, so Tony and Maureen published the first Lonely Planet guidebook to meet a growing need.

From a kitchen table, Lonely Planet has grown to become the largest independent travel publisher in the world, with offices in Melbourne (Australia), Oakland (USA), London (UK) and Paris (France).

Today Lonely Planet guidebooks cover the globe. There is an evergrowing list of books and information in a variety of media. Some things haven't changed. The main aim is still to make it possible for adventurous travellers to get out there - to explore and better understand the world.

THE AUTHORS

THIS BOOK

FOREWORD

THE BEST OF INDIA

INTRODUCTION

FACTS ABOUT INDIA

History

Snapshots of Indian History

Geography & Geology

Climate

Ecology & Environment

Flora & Fauna

Government & Politics

Economy

Population & People

Education

Science & Philosophy

Arts

Society & Conduct

Religion

Arts & Crafts of India

FACTS FOR THE VISITOR

Highlights

Suggested Itineraries

Planning

Responsible Tourism

Tourist Offices

Visas & Documents

Embassies & Consulates

Customs

Money

Post & Communimtions

Digital Resources

Books

Newspapers & Magazines

TV & Radio

Photography & Video

Time

Electricity

Weights & Measures

Laundry

Indian Cuisine

Health

Toilets

Social Graces

Women Travellers

Gay & Lesbian Travellers

Disabled Travellers

Senior Travellers

Travel with Children

Dangers & Annoyances

Emergencies

Legal Matters

Business Hours

Public Holidays & Special

Events

Activities

Courses

Volunteer Work

Accommodation

Entertainment

Spectator Sports

Shopping

GETTING THERE & AWAY

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