India General Information.
The ultimate destinations for those seeking both enlightenment and excitement. There are few nations that manage to find unity, if not harmony in the extreme diversity in terms of landscape, culture, religion, language and its people. In many ways the Indian experience embodies the complexity and variety of its landscape, which covers everything from the majesty of the Himalayas to the sanctity of the Ganges. To say that the country and its people share a common identity would be overlooking the fact that there are over one billion people spread throughout 26 different states, who speak different languages, practice different faiths and customs, but who all call this country their home. Yet there seems to be a shared approach and rhythm to life in this great country that you simply have to experience first hand.
Facts and Figures
Capital: New Delhi
Government: federal republic
Currency: Indian rupee
Language: Hindi (official); English (associate official); 16 other main and regional languages; over 720 dialects
Religion: Hindu 82%; Muslim 12%; Christian 2%
Climate: The vast geographical expanse of India means that tourists can experience a range of weathers and conditions from the temperate climate in the northern regions to the tropical monsoon of the southern regions.
New Delhi
New Delhi, India’s capital city, is seen by most as the portal or gateway to India. Well accustomed to the influx of tourist activity, the city is a livewire of things to do and place to see, with museums, art galleries and cultural centers buzzing with the festivities and liveliness of any modern city. As one of the most important trading centers, the shopping precincts offer an eye-opening selection of goods and items. However, just as importantly, Delhi manages to preserve its distinct and rich sense of history and culture with numerous historical sites of interest and significance.
Mumbai
Mumbai (or Bombay as it was formerly known) is the undisputed financial and business capital of India. It is a place of opportunity, excitement, glamour and surprises expected of a city that never seems to sleep. Home to the largest movie industry in the world, a trip to Mumbai would not be complete without seeing a Bollywood film. Mumbai also provide tourists with an unforgettable shopping experience, with the famous Chor and Zaveri Bazaars offering a delightful array of antiques, jewellery, hand-made crafts and miscellaneous trinkets and paraphernalia. For those wanting to escape the hectic pace of the city, Juhu and Chowpatty beach are also nearby should you wish to catch the cool sea breeze and take a stroll along some scenic locations made famous by Bollywood movies.