About Priyang Vyas Expertise I would be able to answer a broad range of questions concerning India. Questions relating to the political situation and current events are my area of expertise. If I am unable to answer any question, I know where to look for answers.
Experience I have extensive experience on the subject of India as a whole. I have, throughout my life, had contact with a considerable amount of people from all walks of life. I have had experiances working with a news company in India.
Organizations I am the current President of The MCCC of ISA (Indian Students Association). It is an organization based out of New Jersey, USA.
Education/Credentials I am a licensed pilot.
Awards and Honors I have gotten credit for contributing to a news company in India.
Expert: Priyang Vyas Date: 4/21/2006 Subject: Where to travel in India in June and July?
Question I am planning a trip to India this summer with my wife, we are 30 yrs old. I've recently heard about various bombings/terrorist activity in the North, and I've heard about the Monsoon season that hits the south areas (Goa and Kerala) in June and July. So here are my questions:
1) How bad is it to try and travel in the Southern areas during the monsoon? Are hotels/resturants at the beach towns even open? Is it nice at all or is it just constant rain and storms?
2) Is the North anti-american/anti-western? If so, is it confined to certian areas? What areas should we steer clear of?
3) Where would you advise us to travel during June and July?
My thanks in advance.
Answer Hello,
Firstly, I would like to apologize for not being able to answer your question earlier.
I am happy to know that you are taking a trip to India.
As you are aware, the monsoon is coming to India. Hotels and tourist destinations are never closed in in India. I am sure you will find a place to stay and dine anywhere you decide to go. As far as travelling in the monsoon is concerned, I would suggest you try to fly to the different destinations in India, as it would be the most convenient. Travelling by road is, however, to experiance the country to the fullest (depending how comfortable you are). Monsoons are known to create rain for days on end. You may experiance 3-4 days of constant rain at times. There are times when you would be able to get out and have a nice time.
India is not an anti-western country for the most part. You may want to steer away from the Calcutta(Kolkata) area in West Bengal. In order to be on the safe side, I would recommend that you register yourself with the police stations and the Embassy of you respective country of citizenship upon arrival to India. They would be able to provide more information on travel within the country.
As far as what you may want to see:
I'm sure you do not have to be advised to travel to Agra to see the Taj Mahal. It is rich in beauty and history.
You may also want to look into going to Jaipur and other parts of Rajasthan. It is desert land and would be very interesting.
There are various "hill stations" in india that would be nice to go to including Shimla and Kullu Manali.
Himachal Pradesh is also magnificant with its majestic mountains and lush greenery.
Kerala is also a beautiful state in southern India to visit.
I would also personally advise you to go to Jammu & Kashmir. It's really not as bad as what you may have read and heard.
Wherever you decide to travel, I assure you will be very satisfied with your travels, as long as you and your partner have an open mind.
Gooluck on your travels and please do let me know if you have any questions or concerns. I'd love to hear how it went.
