It"s almost a rite of passage to backpack around India, a country where "history and culture are not just packaged and brought out on show for the tourist, but lived". India"s plethora of cultures, landscapes, sights, sounds and smells makes it a richly rewarding destination. The Footprint India Handbook 2000 is an indispensable guide for the independent traveller or armchair India enthusiast.The Footprint series made its name with the excellent South American Handbook. The same production values and thorough research are evident in the Footprint India Handbook 2000. Divided into regions, the book lists places to visit, suggests accommodation and places to eat to suit various budgets, and gives information on history, festivals, shopping and entertainment. Maps and charts break up the text, and the authors, Robert and Roma Bradnock, throw in quirky facts to enhance your experience. Their love for India is evident, as is their understanding of travellers" needs.The back of the book contains large-scale colour maps of the country. There are few colour photographs, but what the guide lacks in gloss it makes up for in substance--particularly in its guides to India"s main religions and special-interest travel. The cardboard cover and book-marking flaps make for a sturdy, hard-wearing format. It"s time to get out your rucksack. --Anna Hornsey