India

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

India occupies almost entire Indian subcontinent and its coastline is more than 7,000 kilometres long. With a population of over one billion, it is the second most populous country in the world and according the area the seventh largest country. India is home to several ancient civilizations and centre of important historical trade routes.

 

India is known for its rich religious traditions. Four of the most common world religions - Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism - have their roots in India.

 

As a former British colony until 1947, India developed considerably over the last twenty years, particularly in the economic and military spheres, in the regional and global scale.

 

Climate

 

India has different seasons, but the intensity of weather changes over the seasons vary by region. The subcontinent has eight climatic zones. Though monsoon rains are common to all areas, the rainy season begins in the country at different times. In general, mountain regions in the north have the most variable seasons, while the southern plains are dry and hot and coastal regions have a relatively mild climate throughout the year.

 

Summer lasts from April to mid-June and then the temperature in many parts of northern and central India crosses 40 degrees. December, January and February are the coldest months, while in northern India the temperature descends close to zero. In the South, however, temperatures rarely fall below 10 degrees.

 

Tourist attractions

 

India has a rich and diverse natural, cultural and religious heritage which offers a unique opportunity for tourism. The history of this country ranges from prehistoric Vedic India and we can admire the architecture of the temples, palaces, fortresses, the splendour of its sculptures and paintings. Extremely diverse geography can accommodate every traveller.

 

The famous Taj Mahal in Agra, one of the "Wonders of the World", has become a symbol of eternal love and it is the most important object for almost every visitor coming to India for the first time. Spectacular, but complex and delicate composition made ​​of marble will make you captivated and enchanted by its beauty. Impressive Fort and the nearby Fatehpur Sikri are other significant attractions of Agra.

 

Himalayas in the North are endowed with some of the most beautiful mountain resorts in the world. These small towns, which were a haven of British rulers during the summer heat, such as Chamba, Dalhousie and Darjeeling, retain some old-world charm even today. The picturesque Kullu valley and mountain rivers provide opportunities for hiking, white-water rafting, skiing and other sports in between the magnificent mountains. People focused on the history can visit many ancient temples and monasteries along the traditional trade routes to Central Asia.

 

Rajasthan, the desert state in the West with a rich cultural heritage including magnificent forts, impressive palaces and historical temples, is very popular among tourists. Camel ride and camping in the dunes provide a romantic experience. Jaipur, known as the "Pink City" of India and also the Capital city of Rajasthan is famous due to its forts and palaces.

 

Goa, located along the Arabian Sea is a major seaside resort and offers a blend of East and West. The former Portuguese colony still retains the unique cuisine and beautiful cathedrals of former rulers, while the laid back atmosphere of the beaches provides pleasant rest.

 

South India offers beautiful beaches, palaces, traditional temples and places of pilgrimage. Kerala on the Arabian Sea shore has become a center of traditional Ayurvedic medicine, massages and relaxing baths.

 

States of West Bengal, Assam and Sikkim in the east have beautiful mountain resorts, tea plantations and wildlife reservations. Many of these states have base camps for expeditions to Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.

 

Buddhism was the main religion in Ancient India and a tour of the important Buddhist sites has become the most important event for travellers interested in Buddhism. Among the famous cities, along with other education centres and monuments, are Bodhgaya in Bihar state where Buddha was enlightened, Sarnath, where he preached for the first time, Snac in Madhiyapradesh, site of the historic stupa and Kushinagar , where he reached Nirvana.