Trip to North of India (HP?) in early May - need your advice

Hi all,

I am planning a trip to India in 1st half of May 2005. Will have 10-12 days there. Need some suggestions and advice on where to go :-). So far I am thinking about Himachal Pradesh (but maybe Uttaranchal could be an option as well - I do not know, since I am not sure about the best region to go in terms of the season and weather - please advise!).

What I would like to get out of my trip:
- spend 3-4 days (not more) in meditation in a peaceful spiritual place (taking a short meditation course would be ideal!);
- see couple of picturesque cities/places;
- ideally see some festival or alike event;
- have some Himalayas views (but I cannot do trekking more than simple 1 day trip).

Can you please help with ideas and suggestions?

Many thanks

sky