Information About India
About India
Population
India has a population of approximately 1.46 billion as of 2025, making it the most populous country in the world, surpassing China. Unlike China, which has more or less controlled its population growth, India still experiences rapid population growth, with an increase of about 13 million people per year. India’s population was younger in 2005, with 45.3% under 20 years old and only 5.9% over 60.
Geography and Climate
India’s coastline stretches over 7,000 kilometers, sharing borders with Pakistan (west), China, Nepal, Bhutan (north and northeast), Bangladesh, Myanmar (east), and maritime proximity to Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. It also claims a border with Afghanistan to the northwest.
With an area of 3,287,590 km², India exhibits diverse climates. It is generally tropical, drier in the north and more humid in the south, with four seasons:
- Winter (January–February)
- Summer (March–May)
- Monsoon (June–September)
- Post-monsoon/Autumn (October–December)
The best visiting months are mid-November to the end of March, except in the southeast and far south due to late monsoons. Temperatures range from 18°C–28°C in January and 26°C–34°C in May
Basic Hindi Phrases
Hello: Namasté
Thank You: Dhaniawad
Goodbye: Fir milènge
Please: Kripaya
Yes: Ha
No: Nahi
Excuse me: Maf karna
I am lost: Me ghoum gaya (m.), gayi (f.)
Help: Madad
Emergency terms
Doctor: Doktar
Hospital: Aspatal
I am sick: Mé bimaar hu
Toilet: To-i-let / shochalay
Food and Drink
I'm hungry: Mujhé bhouk lagi hé
Water: Paani
Tea: Tchaï
Vegetarian: Shakahaari
Transport & Directions
Bus: Bas number
Train: Traine
Airport: Hawai adda
Straight ahead: Seedha
To the right: Daaé
Near: Paas
Our Culture
Religion
India’s main religions are Hinduism (~80% population), Islam (~13.4–16%), Christianity (~2.3%), Sikhism (~2%), Buddhism, Jainism, and Parsis (~1.9%). Hinduism is more a way of life than an organized religion, rooted in ancient Vedic texts teaching the divine nature of man.
Sikhs are recognized by turbans and beards and emphasize honesty and service. Jains are non-violent vegetarians respected nationally. Muslims form the second-largest religious group.
The Caste System
Traditional Hindu society is divided into four varnas:
• Brahmins (priests and teachers)
• Kshatriyas (warriors and kings)
• Vaishyas (traders and farmers)
• Sudras (servants)
A fifth group, the Dalits ("untouchables"), historically faced discrimination and are outside these varnas.
Time Difference
- Winter: India is 4 hours 30 minutes ahead of France
- Summer: 3 hours 30 minutes ahead
Currency: Indian Rupee (₹). Approximate rate: 1€ = 75 ₹. Euros can be exchanged at banks and hotels. Credit cards accepted mainly in upscale places
Taxes and Tips
- 5% for accomodations<=INR 7,000
- 18% for accomodations>INR 7,000
Electricity: 220-250 volts, 50 Hz.
Bring universal adapters.
Clothing
Dress modestly, covering legs and shoulders. Remove shoes in religious sites, cover heads in Sikh temples, avoid leather in Jain temples.
Festivals and Public Holidays
- Republic Day: January 26 (Delhi parade)
- Holi: February–March, vibrant festival of colors
- Independence Day: August 15
- Diwali: October–November, festival of lights
- Nagaur Festival: January 24-27, livestock fair in Rajasthan
- Desert Festival: Late January/February in Jaisalmer, cultural celebrations
- Elephant Festival: March, Jaipur
- Gangaur Festival: March, Udaipur, celebrating abundance and fertility
- Baisakhi: April 14, Punjabi spring festival
Visa Information
Tourist visas now processed via VFS India with online application available. e-Tourist visas have multiple options (validity 1 year, 30 days seasonal). Passport photo and scan of passport needed. Biometric data collected at arrival.
Vaccinations
No mandatory vaccines, but recommended: hepatitis B, typhoid (especially for under 70), Japanese encephalitis (for rural or long stays), meningitis, rabies for trekkers.
Food and Drink
India has diverse cuisines: strict vegetarian, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian mostly with mutton and chicken. Avoid tap water and ice. Local drinks include masala chai and lassi (yogurt drink).