Embrace the rich tapestry of Western India, where tradition meets modernity, and every corner tells a story. From the majestic palaces of Rajasthan to the serene beaches of Goa, the Western land is a treasure trove of diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine.
Western India is located by the east coast of India, near the Bay of Bengal, including the states of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Orrisa. Eastern India also comprise of the easternmost states of India; Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. One of the most important rivers that flow through this region is the mighty Brahmaputra, which originates in Tibet and eventually empties itself into the Bay of Bengal. East India has been the ruling ground for many ancient empires such as the Maurya, Sunga, Kalinga and Pala Empires. On the other hand the states to the extreme east of India have a strong ethnic culture that escaped Sanskritization, and have a predominance of Tibeto- Burman language.
Maharashtra, a state spanning west-central India, is best known for its fast-paced capital, Mumbai (formerly Bombay). This sprawling metropolis is the seat of the Bollywood film industry. It’s also famed for sites like the British Raj-era Gateway of India monument and the cave temples at nearby Elephanta Island.
Rajasthan is a northern Indian state bordering Pakistan. Its palaces and forts are reminders of the many kingdoms that historically vied for the region. In its capital, Jaipur, are the 18th-century City Palace and Hawa Mahal, a former cloister for royal women, fronted by a 5-story sandstone screen. Amer Fort, atop a nearby hill, was built by a Rajput prince in the 1600s.
Goa is a state in western India with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. Its long history as a Portuguese colony prior to 1961 is evident in its preserved 16th-century churches and the area’s tropical spice plantations. Goa is also known for its beaches, ranging from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda
Gujarat, India's westernmost state, has varied terrain and numerous sacred sites. In its urban center of Ahmedabad is the Calico Museum of Textiles, displaying antique and modern Indian fabrics. Spiritual leader Mahatma Gandhi's base from 1917-1930 was Sabarmati Ashram, where his living quarters remain on view.