Everyone knows India as the second largest country in the world in terms of population. But, there’s more to India than its vast landmass and large population. The diverse culture, thousands of years of history, and fascinating sightseeing locations are just a few things tourists love about our country. 

If you are looking for in-depth information about India and insights into some less-known facts that make India a tourist-friendly country, you are in the right place. This article will walk you through the 50 amazing things that have made India a popular country!

1. Local Cricket

You must have seen the Indian cricket team giving an outstanding performance on the field, but that’s not all. The craze of cricket goes beyond the stadium in India. In rural and urban areas, children can be spotted playing cricket. They don’t need a vast stadium to practice their skills. Many popular cricketers in India, now playing on a national level, have honed their cricket skills by playing on the streets.

2. Second Most Populous Country

India is the seventh and second largest country in the world in terms of area and population, respectively. As of 2020, the population of India crossed the 138 crore mark. It is still less than China’s population, though. 

3.Spices

There is a reason India is called “the land of spices.” India supplies 75 out of 109 known spices in the world. It’s the largest spice producer, consumer, and exporter. The next time you plan a trip to India, visit the spices farm and learn about the organic methods used for producing various spices. 

4.Bollywood

The Hindi film industry has given us many blockbusters, talented actors, and some unforgettable dialogues that are popular worldwide. Indian cinema dates back to the 1930s. Today, Indian television stars have become so famous that they are signing Hollywood movies. To learn more about Bollywood, take a tour of the film city in Mumbai and watch the shots live! 

5. Indian Food

India has the best flavors and spices. From sweets to spicy foods, the country has an extensive range of cuisines that can make your day super special. A few popular dishes you must try are Butter Chicken, Tandoori Chicken, Hyderabadi Biryani, and Naan. The fun part is that you will get to sample different cuisines in different states. Each state has something unique to offer. 

6. The Family Bond

Nowhere can you see a family bond as strong as in India. It is probably the only country where you can find three-generation living in the same home. Unlike other places, India has a culture where the husband and wife live with their in-laws instead of starting a new life in a separate house. That’s the beauty of our country.

7. Religious Beauty

Indians are super attached to their religion. A vast majority of the population follows Hinduism, some are Christian, and others follow Islam. Buddhism and Jainism are also quite popular here. People are deeply attached to their communities and the practices they are taught. 

8. Marriages are Arranged

Usually, kids find their partners themselves. They talk to the person, see if they are a good match, and discuss them with their parents. That’s not how marriages are always conducted in India. Parents find a suitable partner for their girl/boy child and decide who they should marry. Of course, they don’t do anything against their child’s wishes, but that’s how a wedding is generally organized here.

9. People Speak 22 Languages

India is the largest country in terms of the number of official languages spoken. The country has a diverse culture with 22 languages approved as the official languages. The most common languages that Indians speak are Malayalam, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Hindi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Assamese, Telugu, Bengali, and Urdu.

10. Yoga

Yoga has gained popularity in different parts of the world, but do you know where it originated? It started in India around 5000 years ago. Rishikesh is a training center for people who want to practice different asanas. You can become a certified Yogi after learning a few basic tricks in India. 

11. Holi — The Festival of Colors

If you want to see the colorful side of the country, visit here during Holi. It is the festival of colors, celebrated in all parts of India. You will spot people spraying colors on each other using water guns. 

12. Culture and History

India is also famous for its rich culture and history. In fact, India has the most diverse culture with many religions, foods, languages, traditions, music styles, arts, and trends. The country was ruled by the French, Portuguese, British, Dutch, and Mughal, which makes it a wonderful destination for history fans. 

13. Indian Saree

Another thing that’s full of colors and elegance in India is the saree. Over the past few decades, we have seen many transformations in the saree, but one thing remains constant — a variety of styles, patterns, and colors that give a beautiful touch to the outfit. Of course, there are other dresses too, but the saree is the most famous. 

14. Traditional Dances

Indian music and dance forms are also quite popular. Each state offers a unique dance form representing the culture of the people living there and India’s rich history. Kathak, for example, is a famous dance form in Kerala. Kuchipudi, Bharatnatyam, Bhangra, Garba, and Odissi are some popular dance forms in India.

15. Indian Curry

If you have been to India before, you must have sampled India’s famous “curry-chawal.” The combo is delicious and considered the lightest form of meal. Curry can be made of fish, vegetables, chicken, and other ingredients. It is served with Naan and Rice.

16. Henna

Mehndi or Henna art is a form of jewel or accessory that ladies wear during special occasions. It’s like a tattoo but is drawn with a henna cone that leaves the stain for days. You can have it drawn on your hand with a henna artist. You will love the fresh fragrance and the color.

17.Hockey

The national sport of India, Hockey, might not be as famous as cricket. But it’s still one of the specialties of the country. The Indian hockey team delivered a phenomenal performance in the 20th century Olympics, which made hockey the nation’s national sport.

18.Tigers

India is home to 70% of the world’s tiger population, with around 2,200 tigers found in national parks. You can easily spot a wild tiger in your national park or a wildlife sanctuary tour in India.

19.The Golden Temple

This two-storied architecture in Amritsar is the most sacred location for Sikhs. Every year, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit The Golden Temple. It has a golden dome and is built of marble. The temple isn’t only a sacred place, but it represents human brotherhood. It also feeds over 100,000 pilgrims every day.

20. Indian Weddings

Indian weddings are not as simple as western weddings. The preparations start weeks before the wedding rituals, and people invite a lot of guests. Like other specialties of India, weddings in India are full of colors, decorations, guests, a variety of cuisines, and a lot of fun. Rituals are performed based on the couples’ religion. They celebrate weddings with songs, dance, and many rituals that start days before the actual wedding day.

21. Pharmaceutical Industry

India’s pharmaceutical industry is worth more than $40 billion. India is also one of the largest exporters of general medicine. Many qualified and professional scientists who are known to discover unimaginable treatments or medications are in India. 

22.Kamasutra

For a country that hushes people when it comes to intimate talks, it’s surprising to say that Kamasutra originated in Northern India. It is the oldest book about erotic love. Kamasutra guides people on how to make their love life more beautiful, how to find the best life partner, and other ‘related’ stuff.

23. Statue of Unity

The world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity, is in India. Standing at the height of 182m, the statue is of India’s famous freedom fighter and the first Home Minister “Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel.” It is on a river located 200 kilometers away from Ahmedabad. 

24.Chess

Do you know that chess originated from the popular game “Chaturanga ” played in India? It was played in the 6th century when the Gupta Empire ruled the country. From there, it reached Saudi Arabia, Europe, and other parts of the world and became popular as “Chess”.

25. Kumbh Mela

If you have been to India, you must have probably heard of Kumbh Mela. It attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists from all parts of India. In 2019, Kumbh Mela was hosted in Allahabad when over 220 million people visited the site.

26. The Floating Post Office

India’s floating post office is located on Dal’s Lake, one of the most attractive locations in Srinagar. The post office started in 2011. Since then, it has made Jammu & Kashmir an iconic location for locals and international tourists. 

27.Ayurveda

Ayurveda medicines started in India and have existed since the Vedic era. These medications are made using herbs and medicinal plants found in different corners of India. Ayurveda focuses on a holistic approach to treating various diseases. This oldest and most traditional medical system is still as popular as it was before modern science progressed.

28. Snakes & Ladders

The popular pastime game “snakes and ladders” came from India. It is believed that the board was developed to teach children moral behaviors. The ladder represented good deeds, while the snake was considered evil. Today, snakes and ladders is played in western countries and has become a popular pastime for children and adults.

29. One-Horned Rhinos

Not only tigers, but India is home to more than 3600 one-horned Rhinos. If you want to spot this once-on-the-brink-of-extinction animal, visit Kaziranga National Park in Assam. 

30. The Wettest Place 

Meghalaya receives extreme rainfall, up to 11,872mm annually. Receiving the most rainfall in India, it is the wettest place on Earth. Cherrapunji, a popular town in Meghalaya, has recorded India’s largest annual rainfall (26,461mm).

31. Taj Mahal

The list of famous things in India would be incomplete without the Taj Mahal — one of the seven wonders of India. It’s also one of the most beautiful places visited by over 8 million people annually. Taj Mahal has a strong history. It was built when the Mughals ruled the country. Shah-Jahan, the son of Akbar, built this monument in memory of Mumtaz (his wife).

32. Diwali 

The festival of lights is another famous thing in India. Hindus celebrate Diwali every year with lamps, candles, and fireworks. This five-day festival is to celebrate the return of the Hindu Lord Rama to home after defeating Ravana. 

33.Tea

India is the second-largest tea producer. Over 70% of the tea is consumed within the country itself, making it one of the largest tea consumers. Tea is served in many delicious flavors. People add ginger, cardamom, and other ingredients to make tea super tasty. If you ever come to India, taste the tea here. 

34.Mahatma Gandhi

The famous freedom fighter who played an important role in getting India victory and freedom from British rule was born and brought up in India. Mahatma Gandhi is known for his non-violence approach to making India an independent nation.

35. Pristine Beaches

India is also home to some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches. These are found in Kerala, Goa, Chennai, Mumbai, and more. If you visit India in summer, discover some hidden beaches in Goa and enjoy the tranquility. 

36. Spicy Food

India is not only the largest producer of spices but also famous for its spicy cuisines that make people lick their fingers. You will be surprised to see how Indian restaurants can add so many flavors and different tastes to a single recipe. 

37. Temples 

Many popular saints and the Lords lived in India, making it a spiritual place for people from all religions. They have left behind the temples as spiritual locations for locals and tourists. A few popular temples in India are Sanchi Stupa, Kedarnath temple, Rameshwaram Temple, Golden Temple, and Meenakshi temple.

38. Beautiful Festivals

Holi and Diwali are only two popular festivals that Indians celebrate annually. There are many. The festivals celebrated here depend on the culture and traditions followed in different states, but each festival is celebrated with enthusiasm.

39. Indian Markets

An Indian market is perfect for tourists looking to buy a souvenir. You will find products in all categories and price ranges. It may be a little daunting initially because of the crowd, but you will enjoy your visit. 

40. Street Food

You haven’t explored India if you didn’t taste the street food here. Street food consists of all spicy and delicious Indian foods that make this country foodie’s favorite. Try Paani Puri, Paav Bhaaji, Masala Chat, Bhelpuri, Chhole Tikki, and Samosa.

41. Diamonds and Gold

India produces gold and diamonds in large volumes and is also one of the largest exporters of jewelry. Indian women also love to wear gold bracelets, necklaces, rings, and other jewelry. 

42. Largest Train Network

A surprising fact about the Indian railway system is that the number of people taking trains daily here is equal to the entire population of Australia. That’s how popular, and vast the train networks are. The trains connect some major cities (both urban and rural). It is also one of the cheapest modes of commute. 

43. Vegetarian Foods

Vegans and those who’ve abandoned animal-based foods will love India. Since many people in the country are vegetarians, most restaurants serve healthy and 100% vegetarian meals. 

44. Ganges River

Commonly called Ganga, the Ganges River is considered the Holy River where Hindus and Buddhists take a dip on special occasions. It is believed that bathing in Ganga can purify the person from all previous sins.

45. Qutub Minar

Located in the capital city Delhi, Qutub Minar is the tallest Minarets in the world and is made of bricks. Qutub Minar was built and repaired several times.

46.Lassi

Don’t miss “Punjab Ki Lassi” when you visit India. It is a refreshing drink made of fresh yogurt and simple flavors. This sweet drink is served after your meals. One glass of Lassi and you will feel full. 

47.Textiles

India is one of the largest cotton and silk producers, making its textile industry the most famous and largest in the world. India is known for its handmade linens, garments, and winter wear. 

48.Chutneys and Sauces

Indian food is always served with chutneys made of different ingredients. Food is also served with Naan and Roti. Papadum is quite popular in India. It has a crunchy texture and is deep-fried. 

49.Hinduism

People follow different religions in India, but Hinduism is the most popular (since a majority of the population consists of Hindus). In fact, 80% of the population follows Hinduism.

50.Champi

Champi is the traditional Hindi word for head massage. It started in India as a practice for helping people recover from anxiety, stress, and headaches. People massage their heads gently with a lotion, shampoo, hair oil, and herbs.

These were the 50 amazing things India is famous for. Try these things the next time you visit India and learn more about our country’s diverse culture and rich history.