Delhi, India

The juxtaposition of ancient and modern worlds is perhaps nowhere more evident than in Delhi, a city of eight million. In the old part of town, visit the dome-topped mausoleum of Emperor Humayun and imposing Red Fort built for emperors. Though the solid gold ceiling and precious gems of its Peacock Throne were looted by Persians in the 18th century, the immense palace resonates with the glory and wealth of the Mughal Dynasty.

Agra, India

Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh was the capital of the great Mughal Empire and is home of the Taj Mahal, considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. This matchless architectural gem was built as a mausoleum by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved queen, Empress Mumtaz Mahal who died giving birth to his 14th child. The "Dream in Marble" is remarkable for its perfect balance and proportions. It was completed in 1648 and marks the most developed state of Mughal architecture.

Mumbai (Bombay), India

In classic rags-to-riches fashion, Mumbai grew from mud flats and marshland to the richest industrial center in the country. A study in contrasts, Bomby embraces Western-style skyscrapers at Nariman Point, historic buildings from the last century's "Golden Period" around Bombay Fort, the festival atmosphere of contortionists and vendors at Chowpatty Beach and numerous cultures and creeds.

Goa, India

Countless whitewashed churches, Spanish-style villas and red tile roofs lend a Mediterranean feel to Goa, the result of 450 years of Portuguese rule. Goa once served as a rich trading center for exotic spices, Persian coral, and Oriental silks and porcelain. From here, pilgrims journeyed to Mecca in the 15th century. Now, mango and cashew groves line verdant hills, and red sand beaches fringe the blue-green Arabian Sea for some 60 miles in this resort.