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General cultural information
The country's glorious diversity means there's an astonishing array of sacred sites, from immaculately kept Jain temples to weathered Buddhist stupas; there's history around every corner, with countless monuments, battle-scarred forts, abandoned cities and ancient ruins all having tales to tell; and there are beaches to satiate the most avid sun worshipper. On a personal level, however, India is going to be exactly what you make of it.
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Do's and Don'ts
| Local cuisine | Contrary to popular beliefs, not all Hindus are officially vegetarians. Although one can find vegetarians everywhere. There are considerable regional variations from north to south, partly because of climatic conditions and partly because of historical influences. In the north, much more meat is eaten and the cuisine is often Mughal style, which bears a closer relationship to food of the Middle East and Central Asia. The emphasis is more on spices and less on chilli. Grains and breads are more popular than rice. In the south, more rice is eaten, there is more vegetarian food, and the curries tend to be hotter. Another feature of southern vegetarian food is that one does not use eating utensils; just scoop the food up with your fingers - though not with those of your left hand. | | Clothing | It is obligatory to cover your head before entering Sikh shrines. Do not wear footwear inside Hindu, Musli, Sikh or Jain places of worship. Some temples do not permit leather articles to be taken in. Do not wear shorts, sleeveless tops or revealing clothes in places of public worship | | Beggars | Do not encourage beggars by giving them money or other articles. | | Photography | In most areas one can freely make pictures. Photography is prohibited in tribal areas. |
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Religion
India's most important religion is Hinduism. This religion is practised by approximately 80% of the population.
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Cultural attractions
| Date | Event | | February or March | Holi | An famous festival is Holi or Spring festival. This is a festival of colours and sunshine and is celebrated with a full moon. It is a cheerful festival whereby the female demon Holika is burned on the first night. | | August 15 | Independence day | | | October 2 | Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday | | | October and November | Divali | Divali or Deepavali is the festival of light. This is the most important Hindu festival. Next to this, the beat of Krishna on the demon of darkness and uncleanness is celebrated. | | | |
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