India is a colorful country with a centuries-old culture and interesting history. She is known throughout the world for her colorful films, fiery dances, famous Indian sweets, and colorful holidays.

Indian culture is interesting and unusual. Here, family values, respect and honor for elders are in the foreground. This is the basis of Indian society. Indian women proudly wear their national dress - the sari. And they do this not on holidays, but every day.

Tours to India are organized all year round. Moreover, you can buy such a tour quite inexpensively if you follow the link https://cheaptravell.ru/. But you need to know that from June to October there is a rainy season here. It is in India that the rainiest place on earth is located - Cherrapunji.

This country is also famous national cuisine. The main national dish is rice, which is seasoned with various spices, pepper, and kitchen roots. This dish is served in expensive restaurants and on street stalls.

Tourists can get acquainted with the diversity of exotic wildlife in India. Its largest and most famous representatives are the Indian elephant and the Bengal tiger.

The city of Varanasi is one of the most visited. It is located on the sacred Ganges River and, according to Indian legend, was built by the Gods themselves. This is the oldest city in the country, personifying Indian culture. It is a noisy and bustling city with uncontrollable traffic. But this does not prevent sacred Indian animals - cows - from resting in the middle of any street. Varanasi is a city where life and death meet. Thousands of Indians come here to find their last refuge. Locals They consider their city the most ancient and sacred on earth.

Varanasi is full of legends, myths and at the same time interesting sights. There are several hundred temples here, many hundreds of years old.

Silk products are usually brought home from India. Scarves, shawls and other items made by craftswomen will be the best gifts brought from India.

India is one of the most colorful and original countries in Asia. One can only laugh at those who claim that they know everything about it, having visited, for example, Goa. After all, the heart of India is not at all beautiful beaches, but alluring caves where you can meditate for hours, the fascinating Golden Triangle, the luxurious Taj Mahal.

Sights of India

There are even more attractions in India than beaches. The most popular among curious tourists is the route along the so-called Golden Triangle. During such a trip, you can see the sights of Old Delhi, the Taj Mahal, located in the fabulous city of Agra, and Ancient Jaipur, where you can get acquainted with the traditional Indian culture that developed thousands of years ago. These three cities are the “tops” of the golden triangle.

India, Taj Mahal.

If you deviate from your usual route and go explore other parts of India, you can also find a lot of interesting things. On the border with Pakistan is one of the most beautiful sights in India - the Jaisalmer fortress. Its yellow sandstone walls look especially impressive at sunset. Due to the distance from the usual tourist routes There are not too many guests here, which makes visiting the fortress even more tempting.

India, Jaisalmer fortress.

India is one of the most interesting countries, whose history is full of mysteries. Here, according to historians, is the most ancient city world - Varanasi. Today, pilgrims come here to swim in the waters of the Ganges River and worship the shrines kept in local temples.

Searching for truth in the mountains

India is not only about sights and beaches. Many come here in search of truth and in hopes of understanding a higher mind. Yoga tours are becoming increasingly popular, not only in Russia, but throughout the world. The best place for this purpose - the center of the country with numerous caves and the mountainous part - mysterious and even a little mysterious. It is worth keeping in mind that a yoga tour can be purchased in Russia, as independent travel, or you can order a short-term program during your holiday in India.

Beaches of India

Of course, despite the abundance of attractions, the first thing tourists associate India with is the beaches. The most popular region from this point of view is Goa. By the way, many people mistakenly believe that this is an island in the Indian Ocean. In fact, it is just a small state located on the coast. Conventionally, it is divided into two parts: southern and northern. The first is more suitable for a quiet and relaxing holiday, which, although with a stretch, can be called elite. The second is endless parties under open air, nightclubs and bars, world-famous DJs at the controls. In general, a place for those who are not used to sleeping at night.

On the beach in India.

Having decided to spend a vacation on Goa beaches, many of which resemble a picture from a Bounty advertisement, it is worth considering that the level of many hotels leaves much to be desired. Most of them do not reach the level of the announced stars. But the prices are encouraging - they are quite affordable, which makes India popular beach direction after the closure of everyone's favorite Turkey and Egypt.

India is a colorful and diverse country with a rich history and amazing ancient culture. The country is the only one on earth whose religion and traditions have not been interrupted for many centuries and have been preserved in their original appearance.

General information

India is a federal republic consisting of 28 states and 7 union islands. The territorial area of ​​the state is 3.3 million square meters. km, where more than 1.2 billion people live. The capital of the country is New Delhi.

India is located in southern Asia on the Hindustan Peninsula. The state shares borders with Pakistan, Tajikistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. The republic is washed by the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. The most important rivers are the Indus and the Ganges. The territory of India is distinguished by a varied topography: in the south there are plains, in the north there are glaciers, in the west there is desert and in the east there are tropical forests. The republic is included in the list of the seven largest countries in the world by area.

India is rightfully considered one of the most ancient civilizations in the world. The first to mention the country appeared in the middle of the 3rd millennium BC, when the Dravidians lived in the territory. From 2500 to 1500 BC India was inhabited by Indo-Aryan tribes. Until 1398, the country was ruled by Muslims, until the country was conquered by the armies of Tamerlane. His descendant founded the Mughal Empire in India. From 1828 to 1857, India was colonized by Great Britain until it gained independence on August 15, 1947, although it was divided into two parts: India and Pakistan. On January 26, 1950, India received official status as a democratic republic.

India is the second most populous country in the world. There are 18 officially registered languages ​​in the country, the most common being English and Hindi.

It is worth noting that India is a multi-religious country, mainly Hindus and Muslims. About 18 million people profess Christianity.

Weather in India

The climate of the country is quite diverse, since the territory is quite large and the weather conditions in different places are very different.

India has a tropical monsoon climate. There are mainly three seasons: winter (lasts from October to February), summer (from March to June) and monsoon season (from June to September), their duration depends on the specific area. Important factors that influence the country's climate are the mountain ranges in the north and the Thar Desert in the northwest. In summer it is very hot and dry, temperatures range from +35 ºС to +45 ºС. In winter it is dry and cool, the approximate temperature is +20…+25 ºС.

The best time to visit India depends on the destination itinerary. During the winter season, it is worth going to Rajasthan, Goa, o. Andaman, Kerala, Orissa and other coastal areas of the Indian peninsula.

The summer season is best spent in Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Ladakh, Kashmir and other states in the Himalayan region.

Transport India

Airplane

India has very well developed air connections between cities. Flights are operated regularly from local airports by companies such as Indian Airlines, Jadsen Airlines, Jet Airlines, Alliance Air, Sahara Airlines, Archana Airlines. The cost of tickets is approximately the same as for an expensive class train, but with less time consumption. Also recently, “air taxis” have appeared in India, which are operated by local private firms and sent throughout the country.

Train

The most popular type of transport in the country. There are different categories of trains, from the most expensive class, which is equipped with air conditioning, to the general class with a ticket without a seat. Ticket prices depend on the distance and internal amenities of the train (air conditioning, fan, two-seater coupe, seated cars, etc.)

Bus

Public and private buses operate throughout the country. State ones depart regularly from official bus stations and train stations. There are two types of private buses: tourist and night. IN tourist buses The ticket price includes water, and night stays are equipped with overhead seats. These buses depart from train stations and their own stops. The ticket price depends on the route direction and distance.

Taxi

Taxis in India are either public or private. The cost of the trip depends on the distance traveled and direction. All cars are equipped with meters, but it is better to discuss the fare before leaving.

Rickshaw

Rickshaws are popular public transport. There are two types: motorcycle and bicycle. Pedicabs are a small two-seater carriage that is designed for walking in a walking area at close range. A motorized rickshaw is a kind of motorized scooter with a cabin designed for three passengers. Some rickshaws are equipped with meters, but it is better to agree on the fare in advance.

Regions and cities of India

Northern India

Northern India - location Buddhist monasteries, the territory contains the Himalayas and the Hindu Kush. Also in this area is the famous Spiti Valley, the holy Mount Kailash, which according to ancient Indian manuscripts is the center of the Universe. A huge number of national reserves, unpredictable mountain routes, ancient forgotten cities and the capital of India, Delhi, can all be found in northern India.

Cultural, economic and historical Center countries. The city very harmoniously preserves the traditions and culture of past centuries and builds a variety of skyscrapers and supermarkets of the 21st century. Transport in Delhi is very well developed, which makes it possible to easily reach any region of India. The city also has the best shopping options. Among the most visited attractions it is worth noting: the Red Fort, Jama Masjid and the Arch built in honor of those who died in the First world war soldier. Favorable time to visit is from September to November.

The Himalayas are a mountain system located in the northern part of India. There are many temples and monasteries on the mountain slopes, there are all conditions for active rest. There are also schools of yoga, meditation and martial arts.

Western India

Western India is a territory with a very diverse topography: the forests of Gujarat, the Ghats, the deserts of Rajasthan. Here are big cities India: Mumbai and Goa.

Center of Maharashtra state. A city of contrasts, which combines luxury and poverty, and elite houses with slums and garbage dumps. Well developed infrastructure, greatest number hotels, shops, restaurants are located in the Colaba area. Cultural attractions worth visiting include: Gateway of India, Mahalakshmi, Victoria Station, Elephant Island, Prince of Wales Museum, National Park named after Gandhi, Tower of Silence. The best time The period for visiting is from November to February.

A famous resort in India, which is divided into two regions: North and South. In the Northern region there are numerous towns and villages, recreation in which is suitable for young people. In South Goa there are hotels, restaurants, and recreation centers for tourists with big wallets. The infrastructure of the resort area is well developed and there are all conditions for varied recreation. The most interesting sights are: Arch of the Viceroys, Basilica of Jesus, Mahalaxmi Temple, St. Catherine's Cathedral, Hindu temples of Mangeshi and Mahalsa. Favorable season for holidays is from November to February.

South India

South India is the most populous part of the country with a rich history. There are many ancient cities, colonial forts and many temples preserved here. Famous attractions include: Mahabalipuram Temple Complex, Shiva Temple Complex and Madurai - the center of religion.

Kerala is the cleanest state of India, which is located in the south-eastern part of the country, with well-developed infrastructure, 3 airports and hotels with high level service. The resort is famous for its healing springs. Some of the places of interest include: Beypur, Lake Pukot, Moppila Bay, Fort Sant'Angelo, Jawhar National Park, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Cochin Synagogue, Krishna Temple at Guruvayur Village and St. Francis Church at Fort Kochi. The holiday season is considered to be from October to March.

Eastern India

Eastern India is an area with a rich diversity of natural conditions.

Kolkata (Calcutta) is the administrative and industrial center of West Bengal with a well-developed infrastructure and transport links. Local attractions include: National Library, memorial museum named after. Queen Victoria, Indian Museum, Botanical Garden, Kali Temple, Mother Teresa Mission, Howrah Bridge.

Nature of India

India is a country with an unusual topography and natural areas. The flora and fauna is very diverse and has many representatives of all species. There are 75 operating in the country national parks and about 420 nature reserves.

Among the most popular and visited natural attractions are:

• “Kanha National Park” is rightfully considered the most beautiful place throughout Asia. The area of ​​the park is about 950 square meters. km. The park was founded in 1995 and immediately received the status of a national reserve. Thousands of species of animals and birds live in the park, and many plants grow.
• "Jim Corbett Park" - national reserve, which is located at the foot of the Himalayas, near the city of Delhi. The area of ​​the reserve is 600 square meters. km. The park has a huge variety of birds, animals and reptiles, but the main inhabitants are the Royal Bengal tigers.
• Sawai Madhopur National Park is a successful implementation of the Tiger Project, which was developed with the aim of protecting and preserving the tiger population. The park is also home to a population of panthers and many other animals.
• "Valley of Flowers National Park" - sacred place, on whose territory there is all the diversity of existing flowers. The length covers an area of ​​8 km long and 2 km wide. The national park is included in the list World Heritage UNESCO.
• Shimla National Park is a city famous for its healing air, many Tibetan monasteries and buildings from the colonial era of India. The main attraction of the city is Lake Rewalsar, the shores of which are a place of worship for Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs.
• "Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary" - unique place, which is home to about 200 species of Indian birds. Also, from October to March, the reserve serves as a nesting site for about 100 species of birds from Siberia and Central Asia that arrive for the winter.
• “Lake Pichola” is one of the most fabulous reservoirs in the state of Rajasthan. On the territory of the lake you can see palaces, temples and ghats; stone steps were built for ritual ablutions.
• Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest park in Goa, covering an area of ​​86 square kilometers. On the territory of the reserve you can see multi-tiered jungles and rare plants. There are also many insects, animals and birds.
• "Mandovi River" is the most large river in Goa, which is 77 km long. The waters of the river are home to a variety of fish and reptiles.
• “Dudhsagar Falls” is a picturesque place that is famous for its legend of “milky” water. Near the pond you can feed the monkeys and see a railway from the times of British colonization.
• Anjuna Beach is a string of cafes, restaurants and nightclubs. Also on the beach is the Anjuna Market flea market, and every Wednesday there is a carnival of colors.

Sights of India

• The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum whose construction lasted for 20 years. The Taj Mahal was built from white polished marble in honor of the beloved wife of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The height of the building including the dome is 74 meters. Nearby there are 4 towers, the height of which is 42 meters. The interior of the mausoleum is decorated with carvings, openwork lattices and precious colored stones.
• The Ajanta Caves are a unique creation of mankind. The caves were carved out of stone in the 2nd century BC. For 9 centuries, Buddhist monks used them as monasteries and prayer halls. Today, all the caves are connected by a terrace, but in the past a separate passage led to each of them. There are 29 caves in total, in the interior of which you can see the throne, traces or images of Buddha.
• Jaisalmer Fort is a fortress that was built on an 80-meter hill. The fort area is dotted with streets, and also on the territory there are: gates, the palace of the Maharaja, a courtyard and decorated Jain temples.
• The Golden Temple of Harmandir Sahib is the oldest temple in India. The construction of the mosque was started in the 16th century by the Guru. In the 19th century, the upper floors of the building were covered with gold. The Golden Temple is located in the middle of an artificial lake and is connected to the shore by a marble bridge. The temple complex includes a central building - the Golden Temple, and several dozen secondary buildings.
• Virupaksha Temple is a religious building that dates back to the 7th century. Temple complex is the main building - the temple, and adjacent buildings - the entrance gate, columnar arcade, small sanctuaries, courtyards and other buildings. Mass festivals and vibrant carnivals are held on the territory.
• Lake Pikola Palace was once a royal residence, today it is a five-star hotel. The building was built from precious white marble, which changes color depending on the time of day. The total area of ​​the hotel is 16,000 sq. m. The interior design of some rooms is made in the style of the Taj Mahal.
• Lakshmi-Narayana Temple is a building built in the first half of the twentieth century in honor of Krishna (Narayana) and his wife Lakshmi. The temple was built from pink and white marble and is a collection of concentric squares. In the inner square is the main altar, and under the walls are the rest, dedicated to various deities. On the territory of the temple there is a park with a fountain, meditation caves, yoga rooms, and a library.
• The Qutub Minar is a complex of monuments from different eras. Qutub Minar is the most high tower in the world, built of brick. The height of the minaret is more than 72 meters, and you can climb to the very top using 379 steps. A dome was built at the very top of the tower, but it was destroyed as a result of an earthquake at the beginning of the 19th century. The diameter of the base is 14 meters, but it narrows with each floor. The walls are decorated with Arabic script.
• The Red Fort is a fortress built of red brick during the reign of the Great Mongols. The building was erected in the shape of a crescent and is surrounded by an additional protective wall made of red stone. The height of the wall is 21 meters, and the construction area is 2.4 km. In 1983, the Red Fort was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Indian culture

The culture of India was formed under the influence of religion, since the country is highly religious. Most of the population are Hindus (80%), also in India the population professes Islam (more than 100 million), Sikhs (18 million), Buddhism (6.6 million), Jainism (4.5 million) and other religions . Such versatility of religion has influenced the country’s traditions for many centuries. Some Indian traditions have become lost and forgotten over time, but most of them are followed to this day.

For example, greeting. The most respectful greeting in the country is namaste - this is the joining of two palms in front of you. A handshake will only be relevant if you are greeting someone you have known for a long time. Patting on the shoulder, hugging, or walking hand in hand is considered an inappropriate gesture. Touching the feet or shins of the person being greeted with your fingers is considered a sign of respect.

You can show disrespect by showing your interlocutor the soles of your shoes. Before entering most temples, offices, and houses, it is customary to take off your shoes. Women need to visit the temple only with their heads and shoulders covered and in loose clothing.

When eating food, Indians usually use their right hand, since the left hand is considered unclean. When moving on to the next dish, you must wash your hands. You should also eat all leftover food from your plates, otherwise you may show a sign of disrespect for the owners of the house. When saying goodbye, you need to raise your palm.

In India, you cannot harm animals and birds, as many of them are considered sacred.

Indian art is also closely connected with religion. Architecture and painting are imbued with the holy spirit of ancient Indian civilization, which fully reflects the culture and traditions of India.

Music is an integral part of Indian culture. Initially, music was perceived as a way of unity with God and gave peace during meditation and prayer. The most famous direction in music is samanga, which is based on the verses of the Rigveda. The poems have reached our time in the form of a hymn - samana.

The Bharata Natyam dance, which originated in Hindu temples and is considered the most ancient in the world, fully reveals the colorfulness of India. Also no less popular are types of dance, such as Manipuri, Katham, Kakhtakhali, which over time acquired national significance.

Indians pay special attention to holidays and festivals. They are mainly dedicated to gods or agricultural works and reflect the rich thousand-year-old history, religion and culture of India.

Indian cuisine

Modern Indian cuisine reflects the centuries-old experience of dozens of peoples inhabiting its territory. Indian cuisine is a unique complex of diverse traditions, recipes and dishes that vary from region to region.

Indian Cuisine Ingredients

Indian cuisine is vegetarian dishes that are prepared on the basis of grains and legumes, dairy products, nuts, and many spices. Various types of flatbreads are very popular, which are cooked in a traditional tandoori clay oven. They are usually served with rice or a mixture of fried vegetables.

Vegetarianism in India is widespread across regions, and chicken, pork and fish dishes are also common.

Indian spices

India is a land of spices. The correct selection and combination of spices plays a huge role in India. The healing properties of spices such as cloves, ginger, coriander and asafoetida have been known since ancient times.

The most popular around the world is a mixture of ten spices based on turmeric - curry. I mainly add it to vegetables, rice and meat. Also in demand is “masala” - a mixture of spices fried in oil, which is added to enhance the aroma and taste of dishes.

Indian dairy dishes

Since the cow is considered a sacred animal in India, milk and butter form an important basis in Indian cuisine. Dahi yoghurt, homemade paneer cheese, ghee and warmed milk are used in almost all Indian dishes.

Indian sweets

Indian sweets are no less popular product. They are prepared on the basis of dairy products, rice, flour, fruits, honey, nuts and spices. In India you can find the most unusual flavor combinations, for example, burfi fudge with the aroma of saffron and pine nuts or Indian halva.

Indian drinks

Indian cuisine is rich in a variety of drinks. In addition to the well-known tea and coffee, the lassi drink based on homemade yogurt with the addition of fruits, sweet and sour lemonade with ice “nimbu panch”, fruit juices, as well as the ginger drink “adrak tea” are also popular.

It is not customary to drink alcohol in the country, but in the regions you can find specialized stores with popular types of Old Monk rum and Aristokrat whiskey.

Shopping in India

Shopping in India is an exciting activity and an integral part of any trip. The main feature of shops and markets in India is the absence of a fixed price, which makes it possible to bargain. It is also worth considering that each district or city in India produces its own unique products.

In India, all goods can mainly be purchased at markets, small shops and roadside stalls, as there are very few large supermarkets.

Among the popular products are: handmade carpets, fabrics that are considered the best in the world, ceramics, leather, products from which are of excellent quality, jewelry. In most stores you need to pay in rupees.

India is the brightest and interesting country peace. This amazing world ancient temples, forts and palaces, beautiful snow-white beaches And mountain peaks. It is the birthplace of four world religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism), as well as yoga and the martial art of Kung Fu.