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10 Fun and Interesting Facts About India That Might Surprise You

India is a country that has captured the imagination of people from all over the world. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, India is a place that offers endless surprises and delights. In this article, we will explore ten fun and interesting facts about India that might surprise you.

#1. Bollywood – The World’s Largest Film Industry
India is home to the world’s largest film industry, commonly known as Bollywood. Every year, Bollywood produces more than 1,000 films, making it the largest film industry in the world. Indian movies are known for their elaborate song and dance sequences, and they are watched by millions of people worldwide. Bollywood actors and actresses have become household names in India and have a massive following worldwide.

#2. The World’s Largest Democracy
India is the world’s largest democracy, with over 800 million eligible voters. The country’s democratic system is based on a parliamentary system of government, with the Prime Minister serving as the head of government. India has a vibrant political culture, with several parties vying for power in elections held every five years. It is also second-most populous country on earth, after China. But despite its size, India also boasts incredible diversity- there are over 2,000 ethnic groups and more than 1,600 languages spoken throughout the country!

#3. Yoga – An Ancient Indian Practice
Yoga, which has now become a global phenomenon, has its roots in India. The ancient practice of yoga is said to have originated in India more than 5,000 years ago and has since become an integral part of Indian culture. Today, yoga is practiced worldwide, with millions benefiting from its physical and mental health benefits.

#4. Online Betting
Betting in India is a vast market, with billions of dollars at stake. There are many betting platforms and activities in India, including the popular Satta Matka at Lottoland Asia, a form of lottery. One of the main reasons for the popularity of betting in India is the availability of a wide range of games, including card games, sports betting, and casino games.

#5. Khari Baoli – The World’s Largest Spice Market
The Khari Baoli spice market in Delhi is the largest in the world, with hundreds of shops selling a variety of spices, herbs, and other condiments. The market has a rich history dating back to the 17th century when it was established as a trading center for spices. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals who want to experience this vibrant market’s sights, sounds, and smells.

#6. The World’s Largest Postal Network
India has the world’s largest postal network, with more than 154,000 post offices spread across the country. The Indian postal service is one of the oldest in the world and dates back to the British Raj. The postal service is vital in connecting people across the country, particularly in rural areas, where access to modern communication technology is limited.

#7. The Highest Cricket Ground in the World
The Chail Cricket Ground in Himachal Pradesh is the highest globally, 7,500 feet above sea level. The ground was built in 1893 and is surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a popular destination for cricket lovers worldwide.

#8. The World’s Largest Gathering of People
The Kumbh Mela is the world’s largest gathering of people, with millions of people from all over India and the world coming together to dip in the Ganges river’s holy waters. The Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years in four different locations across India and is a significant event for Hindus.

#9. The Land of Multiple Languages
India is a land of multiple languages, with more than 22 official languages and hundreds of dialects spoken across the country. Hindi is India’s most widely spoken language, followed by Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, and Tamil. Each language has its unique history, culture, and literature and contributes to the rich tapestry of Indian culture.

#10. The Origin of the Number System
The number system that is used worldwide today, including the use of zero, was invented in India. Indian mathematicians made significant contributions to the development of mathematics, including the invention of the decimal system, which includes zero. The decimal system is now used worldwide, making Indian mathematics one of the most significant contributions to the world of science.

Conclusion
In conclusion, India is a country full of surprises, with a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From Bollywood to yoga, from spices to cricket, from the Kumbh Mela to the postal network, and from languages to the number system, India has made significant contributions to the world in various fields. These ten fun and interesting facts about India are just a glimpse of the fascinating world that India has to offer, and many more surprises are waiting to be discovered. So why not plan a trip to India and experience this magical country for yourself?

Trending Top 10 Best Snow Places in India

Do you want to spend some time being surrounded by a picturesque layer of white? We have always wanted to escape the city life and be somewhere in the mountains where we would get nothing but peace. And what can be more tranquil than seeing the snow fall to the ground while you rest somewhere high in the laps of the Himalayan mountains.

The Himalayas in the north cover a good number of states. Most of them have locations where you can see snow all around the year. Some of the places even have an all year round snowfall.
If you want to experience snowfall, then Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, West Bengal and Arunachal might be just the places for you to visit.

Lets check out the top 10 snow places in India.

#1. Gulmarg Town in Jammu and Kashmir, India
#2. North Sikkim, District in Sikkim, India
#3. East Sikkim, District in Sikkim, India

#4. Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh, India
#5. Auli in Himachal Pradesh, India
#6. Chadar Trek – Ladakh, India
#7. Almora, Municipality in Uttarakhand
#8. Kalindi Pass in Uttarakhand, India
#9. Chitkul Village in Himachal Pradesh, India
#10. Tawang Arunachal Pradesh, India

#1. Gulmarg Town in Jammu and Kashmir, India

Kashmir is compared to Switzerland in terms of its natural beauty and the picturesque locations this state flaunts will leave you awestruck. There are a number of places in Kashmir that receive a heavy amount of snowfall. Gulmarg is an old favourite of the people and has been on the list of the top best snow places in India for a long time.

Located in the Pir Panjal range, this hill station in the western Himalayas is an ultimate destination for snow sports like skiing or snowboarding. You can also try out the ropeway to see the terrain from above.

The ravines and streams also turn this place into a magical wonderland in summer while you peacefully watch the snow clad mountains from a distance. All in all, Gulmarg comes at the top of this list as the best place to enjoy the snow.

Must Read: 30 Remarkably Fascinating Places To Visit In Kashmir One Cannot Miss In 2021!

#2. North Sikkim, District in Sikkim, India

Most of the major railway stations have trains to New Jalpaiguri. A drive from NJP to Sikkim will guarantee your chances of snow. The whole section of North Sikkim ranks among the top 10 snow places in India.

The northern part of Sikkim has places like Lachung and Lachen. Both of them are known to have snow all year round. Another popular place to visit is Yumthang valley. This picturesque location will always call you back every time you think of it. You can also go to Yaksom and trek till Goechala which is a pass that leads you to the foothills of the third highest mountain in the world.

If you are visiting the state in the summer season, then take a trip from Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake. The lake is as north as you can go in the state. It is always cold there and you are sure to spot snow or even snowfall.

Must Read: 10 Monasteries in Sikkim to visit in 2021 – Breathtakingly Beautiful

#3. East Sikkim, District in Sikkim, India

The oldest trade route in the world is now a major tourist destination. The silk route in Sikkim goes all the way up to Nathula. From there, you can go to China. This is the ancient route that Fa Hien and Huen Tsang took to visit India. The winter in India can be moderate when compared to European countries, but when it comes to the silk route and Nathula, the western counterparts will find a good challenge.

Your snow cover starts once you cross Phadamchen and enter Zuluk. The zigzag road with the heavenly scenery will surely captivate you. The Nathang Valley is a paradise of snow. Stay for a day in the place and dive right into the tranquillity you deserve. The Nathula Valley is one of the highest passes in India. You might have a shortage of oxygen in the area, so it is advisable to acclimatise yourself within your journey.

Related Article – 6 Splendid Places to Visit in Gangtok | Gangtok Tourism

#4. Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh, India

While writing about the best places to visit in India in winter, it would be a sin not to include Manali. As one of the most famous hill stations in India, Manali is not new to anyone. Located close to the Solang Valley, the town receives a good amount of snowfall and is one of the best places to visit in winter in India. If you are not satisfied with the place in summer and want to see some snow, then Rohtang Pass is the place you should visit.

The pass remains closed due to snow in winter cutting off the easiest route from Manali to Ladakh. The summer time is when you can visit the place to see some snow.
If you are heading to this place via road, consider checking for traffic jams as they can be a big problem during the in-season.

Must Read: Places to Visit in Kullu Manali this Winter 2021

#5. Auli in Himachal Pradesh, India

If you are thinking of spending some quiet time doing your favourite thing in the laps of nature while catching a glimpse of snowfall around your property, Auli is the place for you.
The place is filled with apple orchards combined with a majestic view of the Himalayas at the backdrop while old oak trees cast a beautiful scenery in the distance. It looks like a painted masterpiece of Claude Monet.

Located in Uttarakhand, Nanda Devi is one of the main peaks that can be seen from most of the areas of the state. This gorgeous peak makes it to the list of regions that have snow places in India.
Once you are in Auli, you can opt to stay at your booked property and enjoy serenity or think of taking a hike through the meadows and surround yourself in the laps of nature. You can also visit a lake named Gorson. Though it is manmade, it is a sight to behold.

Related Post – 7 Top Hill Stations in India You Should Visit During Summer

#6. Chadar Trek – Ladakh, India

In the winters, Leh is very less visited by tourists. But a true trekker will always want to visit the place at this time to be a part of the Chadar Trek. The Chadar Trek is not a beginner’s trek, so if you do not have any experience in trekking, then you might want to refrain from this one for now.

The Chadar Trek is a seasonal trek as the route melts down in the summers. The route goes through the Zanskar River and takes nine days to complete. This is the ultimate trek to do if you are in love with snow.

The trek continues from January to February and sometimes extends till March as well. Now if you feel that this trek is not compatible with your time, but have the required fitness to complete it, then you can try the Stok Kangri Trek. This trek offers about the same view but on a different route.

Related Article – Heavenly Places to Visit/ Experience in Leh Ladakh

#7. Almora, Municipality in Uttarakhand, India

Almora is a town in the Shivalik range. This hill station attracts a huge number of tourists from the world over. Apart from the breath-taking scenery and the huge amount of snow this place receives, the place also has a cultural and historic heritage. The place was a popular destination for the British in the colonial era. The town still reflects the structures and the history it had from that era.

The temperature in the town can go really low in winters so it is advisable to pack a good amount of winter clothes when you go. Almora ranks high on the places to visit in India in winter.

Must Read: Top 20 National Parks in India That You Need to Visit!

#8. Kalindi Pass in Uttarakhand, India

Image Source – Trekmunk

If you are a novice in trekking, then you should start scrolling right now. The Kalindi Pass is located beyond Gamukh and the only way to go there is to trek the route. You will need a special permit to go beyond Tapovan and only seasoned mountaineers go for this trek.

If you want to complete the whole route, then you have to trek from Gangotri to Gastoli. From Ghastoli, you can come down through Badrinath. This trek is the ultimate trek one can do in India but is not very famed as it is not for the general public. But if you have done the route, everything else will be dull.

#9. Chitkul Village in Himachal Pradesh, India

Located in one of the farthest corners of Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul is a hidden gem in the actual sense. It is the dream of any mountain lover. Set in a picture perfect location in the middle of a valley with the Rupin River flowing past the village, Chitkul will mesmerise you in every way possible.

The river bed is full of rocks that look like they have been made for a big aquarium. The colours of the rocks are endless and the water is crystal clear. The mountains on both sides have very low vegetation and the farthest mountain is totally wide and devoid of any vegetation. If you are looking for the top best snow places in India, then Chitkul is the best you will get.

Must Read: How To Plan a Trip for Himachal Pradesh? – Travellers of India

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#10. Tawang Arunachal Pradesh, India


Located in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is a village with an everlasting sub-zero temperature. Tawang is also home to one of the largest monasteries in the world. The beauty of Tawang lies in the natural scenic view it offers. Nuranang Falls, Madhuri Lake and Sela Pass are the sight-seeing options you will get once you reach there. All in all, at Tawang, you are sure to get the snow that you most desire.

So, pack your woollens and just get going. Experience the untouched beauty that nature has to offer.

Must Read: Hampta Pass Trek & Chandratal Lake “Somewhere In My Nostalgia” Reminiscing Memories

Top 20 National Parks in India That You Need to Visit!

India is a land of incredible biodiversity, boasting a vast array of national parks that are home to diverse ecosystems and fascinating wildlife. From the majestic tigers of Ranthambore National Park to the pristine beauty of the Sunderbans National Park, each national park offers a unique and captivating experience. Let’s explore the top 20 national parks in India, categorized by states.

In Uttarakhand, the Jim Corbett National Park beckons wildlife enthusiasts with its iconic Bengal tigers, while the Valley of Flowers National Park showcases a breathtaking display of alpine flora. Moving to Madhya Pradesh, the Kanha National Park entices visitors with its dense forests and thriving tiger population, while Bandhavgarh National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes and frequent tiger sightings.

Rajasthan boasts the famous Ranthambore National Park, where the royal Bengal tigers roam amidst ancient ruins. In Assam, the Kaziranga National Park stands tall as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Karnataka showcases the lush forests of Bandipur National Park and the mesmerizing wildlife of Nagarhole National Park.

Kerala’s Periyar National Park offers a chance to spot majestic elephants and explore the serene Periyar Lake, while Maharashtra boasts the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai, and Pench National Park.

These are just a few examples of the remarkable national parks in India. Each state has its own unique offerings, allowing visitors to delve into the wonders of nature and witness incredible wildlife up close. With their conservation efforts and breathtaking landscapes, these national parks are a testament to India’s rich natural heritage.

Here is a list of the Top 20 National Parks in India:

#1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand, India
#2. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India
#3. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India
#4. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan, India
#5. Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India
#6. Sundarbans National Park, India
#7. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka, India
#8. Nagahole National Park/Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Karnataka, India
#9. Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand, India
#10. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India
#11. Eravikulam National Park, Kerala, India
#12. Silent Valley National Park, Kerala, India
#13. Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu, India
#14. Japdapara National Park, West Bengal, India
#15. Gorumara National Park, West Bengal, India
#16. Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh, India
#17. Dachigam National Park, Jammu and Kashmir, India
#18. Mount Harriet National Park, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
#19. Papikonda National Park, Andhra Pradesh, India
#20. Gir Forest National Park, Gujarat, India

1. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand, India – The Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest national park in India that was established in 1936. It is located just a few hour’s drive away from Delhi, but takes one away from the bustle of city life to a completely new world of thick forests and natural beauty. Tourists at Jim Corbett may catch a glimpse of a tiger, or see some other beautiful creatures like deer and elephants. Know more – Top 44 Astounding Places To Visit In Uttarakhand In 2021

2. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India – The Kanha National Park is one of the best national parks in India in terms of its conservation programme. The Sal forests, bamboo groves and open grasslands of the Kanha National Park have played a very important role in tiger conservation and research in India. Tourists can take elephant safaris to visit the tigers in the wild or click beautiful pictures of wild birds and deer.

Must Read: All About the Historic Gwalior City

3. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India – This national park is another representation of the natural diversity of Madhya Pradesh. Pench is known for its thick teak woods and tiger sightings. This park also has facilities for river rafting which attracts a large number of tourists.

Must Read: 11 Amazing Historical Destinations You Must Visit in India

4. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan, India – This national park is very unique because of the fact that it has been built up around the ancient Indian Ranthambore Fort. The steep cliffs and rocky terrain surrounding the fort now house many varieties of wildlife. Some tigers are also present. But in recent years due to overcrowding by tourists, the facilities of this park have suffered greatly. Know more – Places to visit in Rajasthan

5. Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India – Home to the world-famous one horned rhinoceros of India, Kaziranga National Park has now become a fixture in the travel itinerary of all international tourists. Domestic tourists can also visit the park to photograph some beautiful animals in open grassland and experience the thrill of seeing the huge rhinoceros up-close.

Must Read: 7 Places to Visit When in the Cultural City of Jorhat – Assam

6. Sundarbans National Park, India – This national park is built on one of the most unique natural formations of India. The Sundarbans National Park spreads over more than 12o deltaic islands that are covered in mangrove forests rich in wildlife ranging from tigers and crocodiles to beautiful birds and reptiles.

7. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka, India – This national park was once the hunting ground of the mighty rajas of the ancient kingdom of Mysore. Now it protects a large number of animals like monkeys, deer and elephants. The Bandipur National Park is a segment of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The native flora of this area is deciduous plants known for creating a deep dark canopy of green over a forested land. The serene greenery of Bandipura has earned it the name of being one of the most scenic national parks of India.

8. Nagahole National Park/Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Karnataka, India – This national park is also part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Kabini River runs between the two parks of Bandipur and Nagahole. Elephant herds can often be seen going across the river.

9. Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand, India – This is national park is located at a comparatively higher altitude than most national parks in India. The main feature of this national park is its massive bloom of beautiful alpine flowers during the monsoon season. But it is a bit of a strenuous hike to reach the Valley of Flowers and tourists should keep this in mind when travelling with kids or elders.

Related Article – Post-Pandemic Travel Guide to Uttarakhand

10. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India – This national park covers an area of 524 sq km. It is a unique landscape dotted with sandstone peaks, deep thicket and narrow ravines. This national park is known for their wide variety of wildlife like leopards, black buck, boars and bears. This park is also a good destination for bird photography. Boating tours and walking tours have also been started at the Satpura National Park to attract more tourists. The more brave-hearted tourists can even camp overnight in a safe and protected area of the national park.

11. Eravikulam National Park, Kerala, India – This national park is favorite among nature lovers because of its intense natural beauty. A comparatively lesser known site, this park is home to elephants, tigers, jackals and mongoose. The most unique feature of this national park is the presence of the Neelakurinji trees. These trees bloom every twelve years and cover the entire forest in an otherworldly shade of deep blue. Photographers and nature lovers all wait for years to see the Neelakurinji trees in full bloom.

Know more about – “Nalumanikattu” an Epitome of Sustainable Tourism in Thiruvanchoor – Kottayam, Kerala

12. Silent Valley National Park, Kerala, India – India was once characterized by its dense tropical evergreen forests. As settlement spread these forests were reduced in size. The Silent Valley National Park of Kerala is one of the last remnants of the typical tropical evergreen forests of India. Elephants, tigers, wild pigs and the majestic panthers can all be found here. The ancient and undisturbed origins of the Silent Valley National Park attract scientists and tourists from all over the world.

Must Read: Top 9 Romantic Places to visit in Kerala

13. Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu, India – This national park also doubles as a wildlife sanctuary. It is known for its dense greenery. This reserve is most well-known for its large elephant population. There are also golden jackals, leopards and striped hyenas. This national park in recent years has had to implement many strict measures to protect their wildlife from animal poachers. As a result many endangered species of wildlife in India are now thriving and regenerating their population in the Mudumalai National Park of Tamil Nadu.

14. Japdapara National Park, West Bengal, India – This park highlights the flora and fauna of the eastern part of India. The park is populated by elephants, bison, wild pigs and rhinos. But the biggest attraction for tourists is the elephant safaris through the forests of Jaldapara. Click to know – 10 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Kolkata

15. Gorumara National Park, West Bengal, India – This park is located just a stone’s throw away from Jaldapara and tourists usually make a visit to both these parks. The Gorumara National Park is a comparatively smaller national park, but it is rich in wildlife. Tourists can see Bengal tigers and large Asian elephants moving leisurely through the forests of Gorumara.

16. Pin Valley National Park, Himachal Pradesh, India – This national park is one of the most unique national parks of India. This national park is situated in the cold and barren terrain of Spiti. But in the midst of these mountains and barren slopes reside some wild creatures like snow leopards. Snow leopards however are typically very hard to spot. Tourists mostly spend their time photographing the stunning beauty of this mountainous landscape. There are also many opportunities for trekking and hiking around this spot.

Must Read: How To Plan a Trip for Himachal Pradesh?

17. Dachigam National Park, Jammu and Kashmir, India – If Kashmir is said to be heaven on Earth, then the Dachigam National Park is a perfect scenic slice of that heaven. It is located just 22km away from Srinagar, but it houses around seven exotic species of fauna. Some of the most well known inhabitants of this national park include the Himalayan Black Bear, jackals, marmots, leopards. The Kashmiri Stag or the Hangul that lives in this park is also a major draw for wildlife photographers.

Must Read: 30 Remarkably Fascinating Places To Visit In Kashmir One Cannot Miss In 2021!

18. Mount Harriet National Park, Andaman and Nicobar Islands – Stepping away from the mainland of the subcontinent; let us now visit the islands of Andaman and Nicobar. Here the Mount Harriet National Park stands as a beautiful representative of the natural treasures of the islands. Varieties of crabs, turtles and wild pigs populate this national park. Tourists visiting this national park often choose to enjoy a stay in the heart of the park at the Forest Guest House with its picturesque views.

19. Papikonda National Park, Andhra Pradesh, India- This is one of the newest entrants to the list of national parks in India. The Papikonda region between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana was very recently declared as a national park because of its huge natural wealth and diversity. The region is an example of a tropical rainforest populated by a large variety of wild animals like tigers, hyenas, sloth bears, panthers and many more.

20. Gir Forest National Park, Gujarat, India – And last but not the least we have the Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. This is one of the most successful wildlife conservation projects of India. Started with a mere 12 lions, the sanctuary has now become home to more than 600 Indian lions. Tourists visiting this national park get to have the unique experience of getting close to the kings of the forest roaming around in their natural habitat.

These are a few of the best national parks in India. But there are many more unique such places scattered all over the country. Tourists can visit these spots on a trip to a particular state or plan a trip to the national parks separately. Just a few days of wandering through the beautiful forests of India on a national park safari can prove to be a very thrilling as well as a refreshing experience. So pack your bags today and book a trip to meet up with some of India’s majestic residents of the forests.

Must Read: Detox Your Soul at Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Here are the top 10 FAQs about the top 20 national parks in India, categorized by states:

Q: Which are the top national parks in Uttarakhand?
A: Jim Corbett National Park, Valley of Flowers National Park, Nanda Devi National Park, Rajaji National Park.

Q: What are the famous national parks in Madhya Pradesh?
A: Kanha National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Pench National Park, Satpura National Park.

Q: Which national parks are popular in Rajasthan?
A: Ranthambore National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo National Park.

Q: What are the well-known national parks in Assam?
A: Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, Nameri National Park.

Q: Which are the top national parks in Karnataka?
A: Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park, Bannerghatta National Park.

Q: What are the famous national parks in Kerala?
A: Periyar National Park, Silent Valley National Park, Eravikulam National Park.

Q: Which national parks are popular in Maharashtra?
A: Some of the renowned national parks in Maharashtra are Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, and Pench National Park.

Q: What are the well-known national parks in West Bengal?
A: Sunderbans National Park, Neora Valley National Park, Buxa Tiger Reserve.

Q: Which are the top national parks in Himachal Pradesh?
A: Great Himalayan National Park, Pin Valley National Park, Khirganga National Park.

Q: What are the famous national parks in Tamil Nadu?
A: Mudumalai National Park, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, Guindy National Park.

Note: The above list provides an overview of popular national parks in each state, but there are many more national parks in India that offer unique wildlife and natural experiences.