Aït Benhaddou is a well-preserved, ancient fortified city, or kasbah, along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh

The Djema el Fna Square is at the heart of Marrakesh's medieval quarter and comes alive every night with food stalls, dancers, snake charmers and magicians.

Lying due west of Marrakech on the Atlantic coast, Essaouira is a magical town. Fronted by dramatic sea bastions and surrounded by walled fortifications the town's status was assured by the fact that during the 19th century it was the only port south of Tangier open for European trade. With its crescent beach and ramparts, the town has an enjoyable relaxed feel. Watching the sun set over the sea while standing atop the ramparts, or drinking sweet mint tea in the main square as the night falls are enchanted moments. The town is joyfully traffic free. Men pushing laden carts keep the town moving.

Erg Chebbi is an area of large dunes formed by wind-blown sand. Climb the dunes, or take a camel ride.

North Africa's highest peak. At 4,167m/13,671ft, this is a great objective for any fit trekker.

Hilly Wayanad is renowned for its beautiful scenery, coffee and tea plantations and tribal communities. It's an ideal area for walking with Chembra Peak at 2,100m being the highest in the Wayanad range.

Pichola Lake with its two island palaces along with the fabulous City Palace complex are Udaipur's most famous and photogenic sights. The surrounding Aravalli Hills are also very scenic and worth exploring.

Situated in the foothills of the Himalaya, Shimla was once the cool summer capital of the Raj and the most famous hill station in India. You can still get a flavour of bygone days as you stroll its winding streets or take a ride on the Toy Train, and you can also enjoy wonderful views of the Himalaya from the Ridge.

Made famous by the Beatles in the 60s, Rishikesh has retained its hippy vibe and New Age culture. Along with yoga and meditation it's a jumping off point for treks in the Garwhal Mountains to find the source of the Ganges.

Pushkar's centrepiece is its beautiful blue lake ringed by five hundred whitewashed temples. However, it’s the annual five-day camel fair, that attracts thousands of people to the town.