17 Interesting Facts about India
India is a fascinating country visited by millions of international tourists each year. The snow-capped mountains, and the gorgeous beaches, coupled with beautiful hills, plateaus, and river plains – make this country a treasure trove of experiences.The diverse landscape and its diverse people make India interesting. Here are some of the interesting facts about India, a country where everything is possible.
1. The Ancient City
Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the World. Founded in the 11th century, the city is one of the main trade, cultural and educational center of ancient India. The city is well-known for its ancient ghats, markets, and trade centers.
2. A Village without Doors
While discussing interesting facts about India you cannot forget Shani Shingnapur. The village has houses with door frames but no doors. The community believes that the presiding deity of Shani temple protects the village against robberies – and therefore no doors.
3. Ancient India and Town Planning
Excavation has revealed that ancient Indians knew about town planning. In the Indus valley and Harappa excavation sites, archeologists have found several townships built with proper infrastructure, sewage disposal, water supply – all the ingredients that make a metropolis well planned and systematic.
4. A Floating Post Office
Located in the Dal Lake, Srinagar, a houseboat has been converted into a museum and post office. The post office is regularly visited by philately enthusiasts. Visitors can buy souvenirs relating to Indian Post, greeting cards, and picture postcards.
5. Many Things Originated in India
Many things originated in India including Snakes and Ladders, buttons, Yoga (See Yoga Courses in Delhi), diamond mining, trigonometry, and so on.
6. One of the Seven Wonders of the World is Located Here
Taj Mahal, Agra
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7. Lost and Found
A small child, Saroo Brierley, fell asleep on a train and was lost. 25 years later Saroo was reunited with this biological mother with the help of Google Maps. Saroo’s interesting story was made into a movie ‘Lion’. That is surely one of the interesting facts about India.
8. Antigravity Hill of India
At the Magnetic Hills, located on the Leh-Kargil Highway, passengers often feel going uphill while in reality, they are going downhill. Locals believe the road passing by Magnetic Hills takes the passengers towards heaven. Science tells it’s an optical illusion caused due to the shape of the terrain.
9. Ancient Indians Knew about Metallurgy
Let’s talk about India’s experience in handling metals and its experience in making alloys. The ancient Indians knew about metallurgy and knew about zinc extractions. Ancient scriptures have revealed that around 6th century B.C, people knew about this science and used it to create stunning bronze statues, weapons, and so many other things.
10. Second Longest Active Constitution in the World
India is the home to the second-longest active constitution in the world. Compiled by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the constitution of India contains close to 145,000 words - 395 articles arranged in 22 parts and 8 schedules.
11. Honeycombed Hawa Mahal and Its Windows
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Nahargarh Fort, India
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The beehive structure of the building hid the ladies from the outsiders, while they enjoyed the view of Jaipur city. During those times women were not allowed to outside the royal palace due to the strict social norms.
12. The Highest Amount of Rain
Mawsynram receives close to 11,873 millimeters of rains – making it World’s Wettest Place. Also, the region is a popular amount hiker due to its panoramic hiking trails, scenic landscape, and ancient stalagmite formation. Located at East Khasi Hills, the region is one of the popular tourist destinations of Meghalaya.
13. Yoga Originated in India
Yoga and Yogic Kriyas originated in India, dating back to the times of Indus Valley Civilization. The exercise routine is known to detox the body and mind. The entire treatise belonging to Yoga mentions 84 Yoga Asanas bestowing different health benefits.
14. Skeletons of Roopkund
The Roopkund skeleton lake is featured in the famous documentary called ‘Riddles of the Dead: Skeleton Lake’ by National Geographic. On a clear day, one can find ancient skeletons peeping out from the bottom of the lake. It is believed that the skeletons belonged to the 9th-century hikers who died in a natural disaster.
15. Temple of the Rats
In the list of interesting facts about India, this little snippet needs a mention. Karni Mata Temple of Bikaner, Rajasthan, is home to close to twenty-five thousand black and white rats. Visitors revere these rats and consider killing these rodents a cardinal sin.
16. Cave Paintings of Ancient India
Fascinating additions to interesting facts about India are the majestic paintings of the Ajanta caves. The paintings were done by Buddhist monks who resided in the region close to the 2nd century B.C. Most of the caves have paintings based on the life and works of Buddha. Another massive crowd-puller is the sculptures of Ellora caves. The Kailash Nath Caves or the Dashavatara Caves showcases the artistic capabilities of the ancient Indians.
17. World’s Oldest Diamond Mine
India has been mining diamonds for ages. Till 1726, India was the only source of diamonds.India is the land of diversity and variety. The country has played an interesting part in World History and forming the dynamics of the modern world. In India, you will find temples where rats are revered, while on the other corner of the country, the scientists are planning on sending rockets to space. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your tickets, and head out to explore this fascinating country.