India is a top destination for many wanderlust-filled travelers, and it’s easy to see why. Its varied scenery, vibrant festivals, and tantalizingly spicy food are more than enough reasons to visit places like Mumbai or Varanasi.
If you’re someone who’s either visited India before or simply captivated by this country, here are 40+ fascinating facts about India that may astonish you.1
1. Reverence for Bovines: India’s Protected Cows
In India, cows aren’t just animals; they’re revered. So, if you’re a burger enthusiast, you might need to adjust your menu when visiting India. Cows hold a special place in Indian society and are protected under the Constitution, making their slaughter illegal.
You’ll often see cows wandering freely, even on busy city streets, where they are respected and unharmed by the locals.
2. Meghalaya: Drenched in Rain, a Record-Breaking Village
The title for the wettest inhabited place on Earth goes to a village in Meghalaya, India. This place has been recognized by Guinness World Records for receiving an astonishing average of 11,873 millimeters of rain each year. Remember, their monsoon season lasts for half the year, so packing an umbrella is a must!
3. India’s Mosaic of Sacred Structures
India is a land of religious diversity, home to over 300,000 mosques and more than 2 million Hindu temples. Muslims make up about 15% of India’s population, and the country’s Islamic architecture is both stunning and varied. From small village mosques to grand structures like the Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad and the Jama Masjid in New Delhi, the architectural beauty is bound to leave you in awe.
Similarly, Hinduism, the religion of approximately 79.8% of Indians, has left its mark with an incredible number of temples. Over 23,000 temples can be found in the holy city of Varanasi alone, contributing to the more than two million Hindu temples across the country.
4. Soaring Over the Chenab: The World’s Highest Railway Bridge
India’s architectural wonders aren’t limited to religious sites. The Chenab Bridge, which spans the Chenab River in Jammu, stands as the highest rail bridge in the world, towering 1,178 feet above the river. For those with a fear of heights, this might be a sight to admire from a distance!
5. The Rat Temple
One of the most astonishing aspects of India is its Temple of Rats in Rajasthan. This temple is a sanctuary for thousands of rats and is considered one of the country’s most unique attractions. Every year, many pilgrims flock to this temple as part of their spiritual journey. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions and customs during their visit to this unusual but fascinating site.
6. India’s Rising Population: The Next Global Giant
India ranks as the second most populous country in the world (or even the first one since 20232 ), right after China, with a population of approximately 1.4 billion people. This number is steadily rising.
7. India’s Digital Paradox: High Usage, Low Penetration
Despite having the world’s second-largest number of internet users, India shows a surprising contrast in internet penetration. Only 48.7% of its vast population uses the internet, significantly lower than the global average of 65.7% as of 2023. The internet’s growth and adoption in India have faced various challenges. For a safer online experience in India, using a VPN is often recommended.
8. Driving Above the Clouds on India’s Highest Road
In India, you can drive on the world’s highest motorable road. The Ladakh road, soaring over 19,300 feet above sea level, offers some of the most stunning landscapes and thrilling road trips, especially along the renowned Leh–Manali Highway.
9. Himalayan Mystery: The Skeleton-Strewn Lake Roopkund
At about 16,470 feet in the Himalayas lies the mysterious glacial Lake Roopkund, known for the human skeletons found in and around the lake. These remains are believed to be from the 9th century, victims of a severe hail storm. While a bit macabre, this fact about India is certainly intriguing.
10. From Ancient India to Modern Play: The Origins of Snakes and Ladders
The popular board game “Snakes and Ladders,” known in some regions as “shoots and ladders,” originated in India. Originally designed as a moral teaching tool, it used the game board to represent various virtues and vices. The journey across the board symbolized the path to enlightenment, making it a fun and educational game for children.
11. Gems of History: India’s Diamond Mining Saga
India holds a unique place in history as the world’s first diamond mining country. For approximately 1,000 years, starting in the 4th century BC, India was the sole source of diamonds, with the first ones being mined in the Krishna River Delta. It was only in the 18th century that other diamond deposits were discovered in Brazil and South Africa, diversifying the diamond market.
12. Exploring Hinduism: An Ancient, Multifaceted Faith
Hinduism, with historical roots stretching back to around 3000 BCE, is one of the world’s oldest religions. It’s so ancient that it’s considered by some scholars to be the oldest existing religion, and notably, it doesn’t have a single known founder. As the third-largest religion globally, Hinduism boasts over 1 billion adherents.
Contrary to what many Westerners believe, Hinduism isn’t strictly polytheistic. It’s a complex faith where some followers believe in multiple gods (polytheism), while others worship a single, all-encompassing deity (monotheism). Hinduism allows its adherents the freedom to choose their form of worship.
An interesting tidbit about Hinduism is the significance of the number 108. This number is sacred because it represents the ratio of the sun’s distance to its diameter and the moon’s distance to its diameter.
13. India’s Linguistic Kaleidoscope: 22 Official Languages
India is a linguistic mosaic with 22 officially recognized languages. These include Santali, Kashmiri, Bengali, Tamil, and Urdu, with Hindi and English being the official languages. India has the world’s second-largest population of English speakers, after the United States. This is because most Indians are bilingual, speaking their regional language and English for broader communication.
Sanskrit, often regarded as the oldest language in the world and the “mother of all languages,” holds a special place in India. All Hindu scriptures are written in Sanskrit, which is said to be the language of the demi-gods.
14. A Village of Trust: No Doors or Locks in Shani Shingnapur
In India, it’s a common practice to eat with your fingers, even when it comes to dishes like rice, sauces, meats, and vegetables. Some believe that the true essence of enjoying an authentic Indian curry lies in eating it with your hands. So, when you’re in India, don’t hesitate to set aside the fork, knife, and spoon. Observe how the locals do it and give finger-eating a try!
15. A Village Without Locks: Shani Shingnapur
Shani Shingnapur is an extraordinary village known for its houses without doors or locks. Remarkably, this village hasn’t recorded a single criminal act for nearly 400 years. The sense of shared vulnerability among the residents has fostered a strong community trust, creating a safety net more robust than any deadbolt or heavy gate could offer.
16. Indian Cuisine’s Global Journey: Authentic Flavors Beyond Borders
Indian cuisine has conquered palates from London to New York City, becoming one of the most widespread cuisines worldwide. However, many Indians believe that the authentic flavor and spice of their dishes are often diluted outside their homeland. If you’re planning a trip to India and starting in Delhi, embarking on a food tour is the best and safest way to acquaint your taste buds with the genuine flavors of Indian cuisine.
17. The Vegetarian Heartland: India’s Diet of Choice
India has one of the highest rates of vegetarianism in the world, with an estimated 20% to 40% of the population adhering to a strict vegetarian diet. Others may consume fish but no land animals. Vegetarianism is so prevalent that even Western fast-food chains like KFC have tailored their menus in India to include vegetarian options.
18. A Calendar Full of Festivities: India’s Myriad of Holidays
India is a country rich in holidays, with 26 official ones in 2019 alone, including Independence Day, Deepavali (Diwali), Holi, and Christmas. This diversity in celebrations reflects the various cultural groups that make up the Indian population, resulting in a vibrant tapestry of festivals and holidays.
19. Holi: More Than Just Colors, a Festival of Mythology and Water Fights
Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, is not just about colorful powders. Celebrated across India and Nepal, this spring festival has deep roots in Hindu mythology, originating from the legend of “Holika,” the sister of the demon king Hiranyakashyap. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and marks the end of winter, welcoming spring. While colorful powders are iconic, water plays a significant role too, with people engaging in playful water balloon fights. Today, Holi is celebrated by Hindus worldwide.
20. Jaipur’s Giant Timekeeper: The World’s Largest Sundial
Jaipur, a city in northwestern India, boasts the world’s largest sundial, standing at an impressive 27 meters (90 feet) tall. Constructed from polished stone, it is not only a functional timekeeper but also a magnificent architectural wonder. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts thousands of visitors annually, who come to see its shadow move approximately six centimeters per minute.
21. The Taj Mahal’s Color Dilemma: Battling Pollution
The Taj Mahal, India’s iconic monument, is renowned for its stunning white marble. However, due to air pollution and contaminants, its walls are gradually turning yellow. To experience the majestic beauty of the Taj Mahal, along with the Agra Fort and Baby Taj, consider taking a private day trip from Delhi.
22. Hidden in Plain Sight: The Taj Mahal’s WWII Disguise
The Taj Mahal’s significance extends beyond its architectural beauty. During World War II, to protect it from potential air raids, the entire structure was cleverly camouflaged with bamboo scaffolding, making it look like a bamboo stockpile from above. This strategy was effective, as the Taj Mahal remained unscathed throughout the war.
23. Soda as Pesticide: Chattisgarh’s Innovative Farming
In Chattisgarh, one of the world’s largest rice-producing areas, farmers have adopted an unconventional method of using Coke and Pepsi as pesticides. This cost-effective alternative works effectively, possibly because the sweet syrup in these drinks attracts ants that feed on the eggs and larvae of crop-destroying insects.
24. Isolation in Modern Times: North Sentinel Island’s Mystique
North Sentinel Island, inhabited by the Sentinelese people, is one of the last “untouched” places on Earth. The Indian government prohibits anyone from approaching within three miles of the island. Although anthropologist Madhumala Chattophadhyay had peaceful encounters with the Sentinelese in 1991, subsequent attempts at contact have been met with hostility, reinforcing the island’s isolation from the outside world.
25. The Kumbh Mela: A Human Gathering Visible from Space
The Kumbh Mela, a significant Hindu festival and pilgrimage, is the largest gathering of people on Earth. Occurring annually with major events every four and twelve years, it attracts such a massive crowd that it is visible from space in satellite images.
26. Marital Stability: Understanding India’s Low Divorce Rate
India’s divorce rate stands at about 1 in every 100 marriages, which is considerably lower than in many other countries. This low rate is partially attributed to cultural norms and the prevalence of arranged marriages.
27. Rain Prayers: The Unique Frog Marriages of Varanasi
In Varanasi, a holy city in India, there is a unique tradition of marrying frogs. This ritual is believed to please the rain gods and is practiced when there are delays in rainfall. The frogs are caught and ceremonially married in accordance with ancient local beliefs.
28. Beyond Four Seasons: India’s Six-Season Calendar
India’s unique approach to seasons is reflected in the Hindu calendar, which recognizes six distinct seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, prewinter, and winter. This differs from the typical four-season cycle familiar to most other countries.
29. Varanasi: A City as Old as Time Itself
Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is argued to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. This sacred city is steeped in spiritual significance, believed to have been the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Mark Twain famously described Varanasi as being older than history, tradition, and legend.
Varanasi isn’t just ancient; it’s also believed to offer salvation to those who die there, drawing many Hindus to spend their final days in the city. For tourists, Varanasi offers a profound experience of culture, history, and spirituality. A private half-day tour can be an excellent way to delve into the city’s rich tapestry of life, including its vibrant street food scene. Photographers will find endless inspiration in Varanasi’s stunning architecture, people, and rituals, making a photo tour across the city a memorable experience.
30. Ayurveda and Yoga: Varanasi’s Ancient Gifts to the World
Varanasi’s renown extends beyond its spiritual significance; it’s also recognized as the birthplace of Ayurveda and Yoga. These ancient healing systems, integral to Indian culture and philosophy, have their roots in this venerable city, adding to its rich tapestry of historical and cultural importance.
31. India’s Mosaic of States: Diverse, Distinctive, Dynamic
India, a vast and diverse country, is divided into 29 states, each with its own unique identity. States like Assam, known for its tea, Kashmir for its silk, and Goa as a popular tourist destination, have distinct characteristics and contributions. While not the most astonishing fact about India, the existence and variety of these states are often lesser-known to many in the Western world.
32. Chai Nation: India’s Deep-Seated Tea Culture
Tea holds a special place in Indian culture, being the national beverage and an integral part of daily life. India is the world’s second-largest tea producer, trailing only China. The love for tea in India is evident, with it being a staple in households and served with meals throughout the day.
33. The Spice Trail: India’s Domination in Global Flavors
India dominates the global spice market, contributing around 70% of the world’s spices. This massive production includes well-known spices like turmeric, cumin, saffron, and chili powders, which are essential ingredients in cuisines around the world.
34. Reaching for the Sky: The Record-Breaking Statue of Unity
India is home to the Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world at a staggering 600 feet (182 meters). This monumental statue is a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key figure in India’s struggle for independence, and is situated in his birth state of Gujarat. For context, it’s nearly twice the height of the Statue of Liberty. Constructed with over 12,000 bronze panels, it weighs approximately 67,000 tonnes. A convenient way to visit this architectural marvel is through a day tour from Ahmedabad.
35. Golden Generosity: The Amritsar Temple’s Daily Feast
The Amritsar Golden Temple, a magnificent Sikh temple, is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of kindness and inclusivity. Open to people of all faiths, it serves a free vegetarian meal daily to over fifty thousand people. Remarkably, the temple relies on donations for most of its ingredients. A private day tour to the Amritsar Golden Temple and Wagah Border is highly recommended for a memorable experience.
36. Sweet Beginnings: India’s Revolutionary Role in Sugar History
India played a pivotal role in the history of sugar, being the first country to extract, refine, and use it in cooking. This sweet discovery quickly gained popularity worldwide. So, those with a penchant for sweet treats can trace this indulgence back to India’s ancient culinary innovations.
37. Shampoo’s Roots: India’s Ancient Haircare Tradition
The concept of shampoo originated in India, with the term ‘shampoo’ derived from the Sanskrit word “champu,” meaning “to massage.” The earliest forms of shampoo were made from ground herbs mixed with water, a natural and effective way to cleanse the hair. This traditional method laid the foundation for the commercial shampoos we see today.
38. Stepping into History: India’s Ancient Wells
India is renowned for its fascinating step wells, known as ‘vavs’ in Gujarat and ‘baolis’ or ‘baoris’ in other parts of northern India. These architectural marvels, believed to have originated between the 2nd and 4th centuries, were primarily built to access deep water tables, particularly in India’s hot, arid northern states. Besides water supply, they served as cool retreats, temples, community centers, and stops along trade routes. Among these, the Rani ki Vav in Gujarat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands out as the most magnificent.
39. A Bridge of Steel: The Bandra Worli Sealink’s Mighty Cables
The Bandra Worli Sealink, an engineering feat completed in 2010, required a colossal 90,000 tons of cement. Its construction involved massive steel cables, each capable of bearing 900 tons. Remarkably, if these cables were stretched end to end, they would encircle the globe.
40. Gandhi: The Legacy of India’s Great Soul
Mahatma Gandhi, known as ‘Bapu’ or ‘the great-souled one,’ is a globally revered icon of nonviolent resistance. Leading India’s independence movement against British rule post-World War I, Gandhi also strived for peace between Hindus and Muslims. His tragic assassination in 1948 by a Hindu fundamentalist was a significant loss. Gandhi’s enduring legacy is commemorated on all denominations of Indian Rupees printed since 1996.
41. Postal Wonders: India’s Floating Post Office on Dal Lake
India boasts the world’s largest postal network, with one of its most unique branches being a floating post office on Dal Lake, Srinagar. This distinctive post office doubles as a tourist attraction, drawing visitors to one of India’s most picturesque locations.
These fun facts about India only scratch the surface of what this incredible country offers. If these insights have sparked your interest, visiting India promises to be an eye-opening experience, full of surprises and rich cultural encounters.
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