The Indus Valley civilization, one of the oldest in the world, dates back at least 5,000 years. Aryan tribes from the northwest invaded about 1500 B.C.; their merger with the earlier Dravidian inhabitants created the classical Indian culture. Arab incursions starting in the 8th century and Turkish in the 12th were followed by those of European traders, beginning in the late 15th century. By the 19th century, Britain had assumed political control of virtually all Indian lands. Indian armed forces in the British army played a vital role in both World Wars. Nonviolent resistance to British colonialism led by Mohandas GANDHI and Jawaharlal NEHRU brought independence in 1947. The subcontinent was divided into the secular state of India and the smaller Muslim state of Pakistan. A third war between the two countries in 1971 resulted in East Pakistan becoming the separate nation of Bangladesh. Despite impressive gains in economic investment and output, India faces pressing problems such as the ongoing dispute with Pakistan over Kashmir, massive overpopulation, environmental degradation, extensive poverty, and ethnic and religious strife.
India can be found in Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and Pakistan
The total area of the country is 3,287,590 sq km with a climate which varies from tropical monsoon in south to temperate in north and a population of 1,080,264,388 (July 2005 est.)
India has a wealth of fascinating culture both historical and religious and fabulous buildings to visit - temples of all faiths and palaces, castles and forts which are relics of the Moghul Emperors. Add to that the beaches of Kerala and Goa and the varied and interesting cuisine and you have a perfect destination for the slightly more adventurous traveller.
