The Himalayan chain is spread southeast to northwest across the Asian continent. What is called the ‘Indian Himalaya’ is that part of the Himalayan chain which lies within Indian Territory. In the east, the Indian Himalaya originates from a knot between Myanmar. China and India. The chain continues to the border of Bhutan. Beyond that lies Sikkim, home to many peaks including the world’s third highest, Kangchenjunga. The Himalayan range west of Sikkim forms part of Nepal until you reach the border of Kumaun and Garhwal. From here the Indian Himalayan chain continues without a break through Kinnaur, Spiti, Ladakh and lastly East Karakoram.

India is a vast country with the Himalayan Range forming its northern boundary. Its climate and geography are complex, so when considering your trip you need to plan carefully where to go, when to go and what your budget is. The initial experience of India - the heat, the noise and the street life, the vibrant colours and the multitudes of people - may bewilder and exhaust the first - time visitor, but the country and its people are friendly and hospitable. Once you have spent some time here everything will fall into place, and you will be amply rewarded with your first glimpse of the Himalayan peaks, one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world.