WEST INDIA

The four States of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa and Madhya Pradesh in the west are so different in their landscape, culture and milieu that it may be difficult to believe they are adjacent.

Maharashtra is the land of famed warriors. Ridged by the Western ghats and covered by dense forests, it has witnessed a valiant history - rise and fall of Maratha empire. Shivaji is still an immortal legend here, his memories alive in the innumerable forts scattered across the countryside. The rock cut caves at Ajanta and Ellora eloquently record the earliest mingling of all faiths - The Buddhist, Jain and Hindu sculptures and frescoes co-exist in complete harmony.

Since ancient times Arab traders touched the Indian ports on the  west coast of Gujarat and a multi-product export import trade flourished.  The mythical port city of Dwarka supposed to befounded by Lord Krishna5000 years ago, had been recently excavated from below the sea. The ruins of Harappan civilization discovered in Lothal date back 3500 years.  Gujarat is still steeped in history. The Muslim culture in Ahmedabad founded by Ahmed Shah and the memories of life and work of Mahatma Gandhi who spent a part of his life here, are a living presence still.

Goa conjures another world. Ancient temples and majestic churches, a rich tradition of classical music, truly exuberant folk entertainment, delectable cuisine and a beautiful 100 km coastline with nearly year round sunshine combine in magical alchemy to make it an ideal getaway holiday resort.

Madhya Pradesh, surrounded by seven States, known as the heart  of India, geographically shares the mountain ranges and plateaus of the western States. Its verdant forests are rich in flora and fauna and  shelter ancient tribes, in many ways a uniquely harmonious world where life continues to be unhurried and natural.

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