To demonstrate the efficacy and safety of aliskiren given to patients with essential hypertension, at doses of 75 mg, 150 mg and 300 mg alone, and in combination with hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)

Inclusion Criteria

• Patients with essential hypertension
• Patients who are eligible and able to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria

• Severe hypertension
• History or evidence of a secondary form of hypertension
• History of hypertensive encephalopathy or cerebrovascular accident

Other protocol-defined exclusion criteria may apply.