Indias flag
India borders with Pakistan to the northwest; with Nepal, China, and Bhutan to the north; and with Myanmar and Bangladesh to the east. The island country of Sri Lanka is situated some 40 miles (65 kilometres) off the southeast coast of India.
India, the world's most populous country, boasts over 1.4 billion residents and a remarkable diversity of cultures, languages, and landscapes. With 22 official languages, breathtaking natural scenery, and a globally celebrated culinary scene, it's easy to see why India has become a top travel destination in recent years. Today, with Civitatis, we'll uncover 10 fascinating facts about this vibrant South Asian nation and explore some of the most thrilling ways to experience its wonders!
India ranks as the most vegetarian-friendly country, with an impressive 38% of the population embracing a meat-free diet. Additionally, nearly 80% of people follow dietary habits that limit meat consumption. One of the key reasons behind this high prevalence of vegetarianism is the influence of religious traditions, as many of India’s widely practiced faiths have dietary guidelines that encourage plant-based eating. This makes India an ideal destination for vegetarians, offering a rich variety of restaurants and street food tailored to their preferences. A great way to immerse yourself in India’s culinary scene is by joining a traditional cooking class in Delhi, designed specifically for vegetarians. The country boasts an abundance of delicious vegetarian dishes waiting to be explored!
Often mistaken for a palace, the Taj Mahal is actually a magnificent mausoleum and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Built between 1632 and 1653, it was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his cherished wife. This architectural marvel is celebrated for its flawless symmetry and exquisite craftsmanship, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1983. If you’d like to experience this enduring symbol of love firsthand, explore our activities at the Taj Mahal—from private tours to peaceful sunrise yoga sessions, there’s something for everyone!
India is recognized as the world's leading haven for tigers, with an astounding 75% of the global tiger population residing within its borders. These magnificent big cats thrive in diverse habitats, from dense forests to expansive grasslands. After experiencing a dramatic decline in the 1970s, conservation efforts intensified to protect and restore tiger numbers. Through the creation of wildlife reserves, strict anti-poaching initiatives, and widespread awareness campaigns, India’s tiger population is now increasing at a steady rate of about 6% each year.
Hinduism, practiced by nearly 80% of India's population, is widely regarded as one of the world's oldest religious traditions, with origins dating back over 4,000 years. Rather than a single, unified doctrine, Hinduism is an umbrella term encompassing diverse beliefs, philosophies, and customs. This broad scope has sparked ongoing scholarly debate about its classification and historical evolution.
If you're visiting India and seeking a spiritual experience, there are plenty of options to explore. You can travel to Rishikesh, a city famous for its deep connection to yoga and meditation—an association made even more iconic by the Beatles’ visit in the 1960s. There, you can explore the abandoned Ashram of Chaurasi Kutia, also known as the Beatles Ashram, where the legendary band composed many of their famous songs. Alternatively, a Spiritual Tour of Delhi offers an opportunity for introspection as you wander through serene gardens and sacred temples.
Closely tied to India's vegetarian traditions, the cow holds a sacred status in several of the country's major religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. In ancient Hindu scriptures, the cow is honored as Kamdhenu, the "divine cow," symbolizing fertility, abundance, and the nurturing presence of the Mother Goddess. Revered as an earthly embodiment of divine generosity, the cow remains a deeply respected and protected figure in India's spiritual and cultural heritage
Varanasi, India's oldest continuously inhabited city, stands as a spiritual and cultural cornerstone along the sacred Ganges River. With a remarkable history stretching over 3,000 years—dating back at least to 1200 BCE—this North Indian city has long been a hub of devotion and tradition. Today, Varanasi thrives as India's cultural capital, inviting visitors to explore its labyrinthine streets, ancient temples, and bustling markets. From private temple tours to exhilarating tuk-tuk adventures, there are countless ways to immerse yourself in its rich heritage.
Additionally, one of the world’s most cherished board games traces its roots to India, with origins dating back as far as the 2nd century BCE—and possibly even earlier, around the 13th century BCE, according to some historians! More than just a pastime, this game carried a moral lesson, where ladders symbolized virtues such as generosity, faith, and humility, while snakes represented vices like lust, anger, murder, and theft—teaching players about life’s unpredictable journey.
India's population density is 1275 people every mile.