What kind of camera is ideal to use while touring India?

I have a Nikon SLR film camera, but am wondering if I shouldn't get a pocket digital camera (around 5 megapixels) with a decent zoom on it. Would the pocket digital camera give me as good pictures as the film SLR?

If I get a digital camera, how many megapixels is ideal for this kind of photography?

No. Stick with your film SLR.

Not AS good, seeing as the digital camera you are thinking of getting is only 5 mp, however it is much smarter. My aunt has travelled the world and she went to Columbia, and her digital Nikon SLR camera was stolen. She didn't even get it back, and is still waiting for the insurance money to come.

I really believe buying a camera is an individual choice.
The person needs to read alot of reviews on cameras and learn as much as they can from the internet.
Go to the store and hold them and try them to see what they feel like and how they take pictures.
I can only give a suggestion of what to look for in a new digital camera.
Good Luck

my suggestion
go to yahoo shopping
digital cameras
digital camera GUIDE
be sure to check titles on the left side
the guide should answer your questions

Check the Sept. 2007 issue of Shutterbug magazine for a review of five 10 megapixel digicams. You can also access it at shutterbug.com.