If there is only one word I can use to describe India then it has to – Crazy! But one world is never enough as India is such an array of contrast. You never really know what to expect from the place until you are there. Chaos, confusion, bureaucracy, pollution, mayhem, dirty and over populated poverty mould India into nothing you have experienced before, some may say these are bad points but they go hand in hand into what India is all about. On the plus side of things, the friendly people, amazing food, unique culture, affordable travel, vibrant colours everywhere no matter where you are makes it such a spiritual place even if you are not spiritual yourself.
Seventh largest country in the world by area, second most populated country in the world with over 1.2 billion inhabitants in a country that spans from borders with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Burma. With deserts int he North East to the rising Himalayas int he North West to jungles and backwaters in the south and most of the country surrounded by a coastline of over 7,000kms.
Travelling this colossal country can be an epic task by road, however with India’s vast rail network (2nd largest in the world) you can sit back, relax take in the scenery and travel of days upon end for very minimal prices in a variety of different classes from standard to luxury zircon. Air travel is also available throughout the country with many cheap operators offering discounted rates. Travelling int he cities is usually done in a taxi or tu ktuk and you should usually agree a price before setting off. Roads are busy and traffic is dense in some of the big towns.
The claste system embodies so much of India and much of the country is in the lowers castes, poverty stricken and with most families average earnings of £3 per day, yet there are estimated to b over 1 million millionaire in India. The contrasts are seen everywhere in India but mostly seen in the main cities as this is where the wealthy population tend to live.
The food in India is truly sensational, and with the highest number of vegetarians in the world caters for all desires. As expected each region has its own specialities but rice is eaten more in the north than in the south. Standard dishes use up to 10 – 15 different types of spices to flavour each dish. Garam Masala is the main blend of spices used in an array of Indian foods,
largets film industry and road network in the world, never invaded a country, biggest exporter of bananas