The world's second most populous country after China, with a rapidly growing economy, India is home to over one billion people from a wide variety of faiths, including Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, Christianity and Jainism. This diverse land encompasses dramatic snow-topped mountains to sun-bleached beaches; relaxed temples to teeming urban centres. Add to that hundreds of colourful festivals and a spicy, flavoursome cuisine and it is easy to see why visitors find it an overwhelming and unforgettable experience.