KATHMANDU - This city is situated at 1400m ( 4500 ft ) and is nestled in a fertile valley, ringed by the higher peaks of the Himalayas. Kathmandu has always evoked mystique amongst travellers. Ancient temples, exotic festivals and the blending of the Hindu and Buddhist religions, all complimented with the mighty Himalayas as a backdrop. A walk down the narrow, cobbled streets with overhanging balconies and delicately wrought carved windows, is like taking a stroll back through time. Plenty of shopping, restaurants, nightlife, markets and bazaars, makes Kathmandu a must see destination.

DARJEELING - This picturesque town straddles a ridge at 2134m ( 7000 ft ), surrounded by tea plantations and provides spectacular views of the Himalayas, in particular, Kanchenjunga, the 3rd highest mountain in the world. Darjeeling was established by the British as a hill station to escape the heat and humidity of the Indian plains. It is a fascinating place where you can see Buddhist monastries; visit a tea plantation and see how tea is processed; ride chairlifts; go horse riding; hunt for bargains in the colourful markets; visit Tiger Hill for dawn views over Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks; see the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which was founded by Sherpa Tenzing Norgay ( conquered Everest with Edmund Hillary in 1953 ) and generally enjoy the holiday atmosphere of this wonderful place.

SIKKIM - Dominated by the world's 3rd highest mountain, Kanchenjunga, Sikkim provides many spectacular waterfalls beautiful rice paddies and villages, raging rivers, Tibetan monasteries and fantastic views of the Himalayas. Its people are a mixture of Nepalese, Tibetans, Bhutanese and Indians.

GANGTOK - (meaning "hilltop") The capital of Sikkim is located in a valley with spectacular views of the Himalayas. With a population of only 85000, Gangtok is quite small and very easy to walk around and soak up the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. There will be 2 full days of sightseeing to visit the Rumtek Monastery, ride the cable car, shop in the markets/bazaars and see the many waterfalls and villages.

PELLING - A pleasant little town perched high on a ridge and dominated by Kanchenjunga and other high Himalayan peaks. A full day sightseeing to the beautiful and sacred Khecheopari lake and also to see Asia's 2nd highest suspension bridge.

KOLKATA (Calcutta) - Situated on the Hooghly river, Kolkata is one of India's largest and most interesting cities. It was created by the British in 1686, as the capital of British India. It has a fascinating history, ranging from "the Black Hole of Calcutta" and Clive of India, to Mother Teresa and the good work carried out by her missions. Kolkata has long been acknowledged as the cultural capital of India for the way it promotes drama, filmmaking, writers, painters, dancers, musicians and philosophers. There are many fine buildings, museums, markets and bazaars and this, together with the distinctive feel of the real India, makes Kolkata an interesting place to visit.