India
Region
🌍 Asia
Population
👥 1
Currency
💱 Indian rupee
Languages
🗣️ English, Hindi, Tamil
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Embark on an unforgettable journey through India, a land of captivating contrasts and vibrant culture. From the majestic Himalayas in the north to the sun-drenched beaches of the south, India offers an astonishing diversity of landscapes. Explore ancient forts and palaces, witness the iconic Taj Mahal, immerse yourself in colorful festivals, and savor a world-renowned cuisine. India's rich history, spiritual depth, and warm hospitality promise an enriching and truly memorable travel experience.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Republic of India
Continent
Asia
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Indian
Independence
August 15, 1947
Top-Level Domain
.in
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+91
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+05:30
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
New Delhi
ISO Alpha-2
IN
ISO Alpha-3
IND
UN Code
356
Geographic Coordinates
20,77
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
3,287,590#8 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
1,429,404,000#1 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
483.68
Highest Point (m)
Kanchenjunga, 8,586 m
Lowest Point (m)
Indian Ocean, 0 m
Land Use
Agricultural land: 60.5%; Forest: 24.5%; Other: 15%
Irrigated Land
Approximately 680,000 sq km (2012)
Coastline Length
7,000 km
Climate
Varies from tropical in the south to temperate in the north; influenced by the Himalayas and the monsoon season.
Natural Resources
Coal, iron ore, manganese, mica, bauxite, rare earth elements, titanium ore, chromite, natural gas, diamonds, petroleum, limestone, arable land.
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, China, Nepal, Pakistan
Major Rivers
Ganges, Brahmaputra, Yamuna, Godavari, Krishna, Indus.
Major Lakes
Wular Lake, Chilka Lake, Loktak Lake, Vembanad Lake.
Government Type
Federal parliamentary republic
Administrative Divisions
28 states and 8 union territories
Legal System
Based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts.
Chief of State
President Droupadi Murmu
Head of Government
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Cabinet
Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister.
Elections
Elections are held for the Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament) every five years; presidential elections are indirect.
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court, High Courts, and subordinate courts.
Legislative Branch
Bicameral Parliament (Sansad) consisting of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People (Lok Sabha).
Major Political Parties
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Indian National Congress (INC), and various regional parties.
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Indian rupee
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3,956.07#6 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
17,197.37#3 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2,702.48#164 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
16.23
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
25.2
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
49.34
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2.4#111 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
617,625,336
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
4.22#115 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
46.52
Budget
India's annual budget includes allocations for various sectors, including infrastructure, social welfare, and defense.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
880.74#10 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
949.66#7 of 192
Foreign Reserves
India's foreign exchange reserves are substantial, exceeding $550 billion USD.
Currency Exchange
Visit a reputable financial website for current exchange rates.
GDP by Sector
India's GDP is primarily driven by services, followed by industry and agriculture.
Major Industries
Major industries include textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, information technology, and manufacturing.
Major Export Partners
Major export partners are the United States, United Arab Emirates, and China.
Major Import Partners
Major import partners are China, United States, and Saudi Arabia.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Literacy rate, adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
78.16#123 of 169
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
16
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
6.6
Net Migration Rate
The net migration rate is slightly negative.
Median Age
The median age in India is approximately 28 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
35.69#180 of 214
Urbanization Rate
The urbanization rate in India is approximately 2% annually.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
72.2#135 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
HIV/AIDS prevalence in India is relatively low, around 0.2%.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
3.34
Ethnic Groups
Major ethnic groups include Indo-Aryans, Dravidians, and others.
Religions
Major religions are Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
English, Hindi, Tamil
Education
Education System
The Indian education system is divided into primary, upper primary, secondary, and higher secondary levels. It follows a 10+2+3 pattern. Education is compulsory for children aged 6-14 years.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2019)Checked September 29, 2026
11.5
Government Education Spending
Government spending on education is around 3-4% of GDP.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
Major universities include the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), Delhi University, and Jawaharlal Nehru University.
Culture
Cultural Overview
India's culture is incredibly diverse, with influences from various regions and historical periods. It is characterized by a rich heritage of art, music, dance, literature, and philosophy.
National Holidays
Republic Day (January 26), Independence Day (August 15), and Gandhi Jayanti (October 2) are the major national holidays.
Popular Music
Bollywood music is extremely popular. Classical music and regional music are also widely enjoyed.
Traditional Food
Indian cuisine varies greatly by region. Common elements include rice, wheat, lentils, vegetables, and spices. Popular dishes include curries, biryani, and various sweets.
Sports
Cricket is the most popular sport. Other popular sports include field hockey, football (soccer), and badminton.
Major Festivals
Diwali, Holi, Dussehra, Eid, and Christmas are major festivals celebrated across the country.
Famous People
Famous people include Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, and many others in various fields.
Cultural Heritage Sites
India has a vast array of cultural heritage sites, including ancient temples, forts, and monuments.
UNESCO Sites
India has numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Taj Mahal, Ajanta Caves, and Khajuraho temples.
Annual Tourist Visits
Millions annually; fluctuates depending on global events and travel restrictions.
Tourism Overview
Significant tourism industry; attracts millions of visitors annually; diverse attractions.
Top Tourist Attractions
Taj Mahal, Jaipur (Pink City), Varanasi (Ghats), Kerala Backwaters, Goa beaches.
Famous Cities
Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Varanasi.
National Parks
Numerous national parks protecting diverse flora and fauna; examples: Jim Corbett, Kaziranga, Bandhavgarh.
Protected Areas
Extensive network of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit India largely depends on your chosen region and planned activities. For the northern plains and Rajasthan, the cooler, drier months from October to March are perfect for exploring historical sites and enjoying pleasant city tours. If you're heading to the Himalayas for trekking, the summer months of April to June offer clear skies and good trekking conditions, though the monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rainfall to most of the country. For beach destinations like Goa and Kerala, the post-monsoon period from October to February provides sunny days and calm seas. If you're keen on experiencing vibrant festivals, aim for the autumn months, with Diwali often falling between October and November, and Holi celebrated in March, though these can also coincide with peak tourist seasons and higher prices.
Tourist Visa Info
E-Visa available for many nationalities; visa requirements vary by country.
Visa Requirements Overview
Tourist visa requirements for India vary significantly depending on your nationality and the length of your intended stay. Many nationalities are eligible for an e-Tourist Visa, which can be applied for online and offers a convenient way to obtain a visa before your travel. For some countries, regular visa applications through an Indian embassy or consulate are necessary. It's crucial to check the specific requirements for your passport well in advance of your trip, as processing times can vary. Visa validity and the number of entries allowed are also determined by the visa type and your nationality. Always consult the official website of the Indian government or your local Indian mission for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Travel Advisory
Exercise caution due to potential security concerns, crime, and natural disasters. Consult your home country's advisory.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
India's healthcare quality index is variable depending on the region and facility.
Medical Cost
Medical costs in India vary greatly, with public healthcare being more affordable.
Number of Hospitals
India has a vast network of hospitals, both public and private.
Universal Healthcare
India has a mixed healthcare system. Public healthcare is provided through a network of primary health centers and government hospitals. Private healthcare is widely available. Universal Health Coverage is a goal but not yet fully realized.
Medical Services Overview
Medical services range from public to private, with a mix of modern and traditional medicine.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical access varies by location, with urban areas generally having better access.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
100
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
102 (varies by state)
Emergency Number (Fire)
101
Crime Rate
Moderate, varies by region; petty crime is common; violent crime rates are lower than some other countries.
Safety Index
Moderate; safety can vary significantly by city and region; pickpocketing and scams are common tourist concerns.
Military Expenditure
Significant; one of the highest military spenders globally.
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services vary by region; response times can be slow in some areas; services can be limited in rural areas.
Safety Overview
India is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Common scams include overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers or touts offering unsolicited services; it's best to agree on fares beforehand or use reputable ride-sharing apps. While major tourist areas are generally safe, it's advisable to exercise caution in crowded markets or at night, especially in larger cities. Keep your valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. It's also recommended to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites, and to drink bottled water to avoid any stomach issues. Research your specific destinations and stay informed about local conditions.
Military Branches
Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force; paramilitary forces also exist.
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
High access rate, but varies by region; efforts to expand access to rural areas; some challenges with reliability.
Water Access
Access varies; urban areas generally have better access to piped water; rural areas often rely on wells and other sources.
Sanitation Access
Improving, but access varies, particularly in rural areas; open defecation remains a challenge.
Railways
Indian Railways is one of the largest railway networks in the world, connecting major cities and towns.
Roadways
Extensive road network; includes national highways, state highways, and rural roads; significant ongoing expansion.
Transportation System
The transportation system includes a large railway network, a network of roads, airways and waterways.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport (Vizag) (VTZ), Bagdogra Airport (IXB), Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (IMF), Calicut International Airport (CCJ), Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO)
Ports
Major ports include Mumbai, Chennai, and Kandla; handles significant cargo traffic; strategically important for international trade.
Public Transit
Varies by city; includes metro systems (Delhi, Mumbai, etc.), buses, suburban railways, and auto-rickshaws; often crowded.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
70#133 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
Over 80 per 100 people; high mobile phone usage.
Tech Startups
Thriving tech startup ecosystem; hubs in Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, and others; growing investment.
Innovation Index
Improving; ranks among the top in the world, showing strong growth in certain sectors.
ICT Development Index
Moderate; still developing infrastructure and access.
TV Broadcast Stations
Numerous television channels; includes state-owned and private channels; satellite TV is widespread.
Radio Broadcast Stations
Numerous radio stations; includes state-owned and private stations; FM radio is common.
Plug Type & Voltage
Type C/D/M, 230V, 50Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
2.17#111 of 202
Air Quality Index
Severe air pollution, especially in urban areas, with high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5).
Water Pollution Level
High levels of water pollution from industrial waste, sewage, and agricultural runoff.
Renewable Energy Usage
Growing renewable energy sector, with increasing investments in solar and wind power.
Environmental Issues
Air and water pollution, deforestation, soil erosion, and climate change impacts.
Natural Hazards
Floods, droughts, cyclones, earthquakes, and landslides.
Waste Management
Inadequate waste management systems, leading to significant pollution from landfills and open dumping.
Environmental Agreements
Signatory to major environmental agreements like the Paris Agreement and the Montreal Protocol.
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
Extensive network of diplomatic missions worldwide.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
G20, Commonwealth, BRICS
Major Treaties
Signatory to numerous international treaties on climate change, biodiversity, and human rights.
Visa-Free Countries
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a limited number of countries.