History of India

India, a name probably derived from that of the river Indus, often called Ind by the poets, an extensive country or region of Southern Asia, comprising in its largest acceptation not only India proper and Indo-China, but also at least the northernmost islands of the Indian (Malay) Archipelago, thus nearly corresponding in application to the popular but vague appellation EAST INDIES. In this extensive sense it was employed by the ancient Greeks and Romans. It more correctly designates an extensive empire belonging to the British crown, consisting of the great central peninsula of Southern Asia and a narrow strip along the E. side of the Bay of Bengal, between lat. 8° 4' and 36° 15' N. and lon. 66° 44' and 99° 30' E. A part of this empire thus belongs geographically to Indo China. It is bounded N. by the Himalaya Mountains, dividing it from Thibet and Toorkistan, W. by a range separating it from Afghanistan and Beloochistan, E. by parallel offshoots from the opposite extremity of the...

In India, surnames are placed as last names or before first names, which often denote: village of origin, caste, clan, office of authority their ancestors held, or trades of their ancestors. The use of surnames is a relatively new convention, introduced during British colonisation. Typically, parts of northern India follow English-speaking Western naming conventions by having a given name followed by a surname. This is not necessarily the case in southern India, where people may adopt a surname out of necessity when migrating or travelling abroad.

The largest variety of surnames is found in the states of Maharashtra and Goa, which numbers more than the rest of India together. Here surnames are placed last, the order being: the given name, followed by the father's name, followed by the family name. The majority of surnames are derived from the place where the family lived, with the 'kar' (Marathi and Konkani) suffix, for example, Mumbaikar, Punekar, Aurangabadkar, Tendulkar,...

1. Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra: This iconic monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It's a must-visit for its stunning architecture and romantic history.

2. Explore the Pink City of Jaipur: Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known for its beautiful palaces, forts, and vibrant bazaars. Don't miss the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal.

3. Experience the Backwaters of Kerala: Kerala offers serene backwater cruises, lush green landscapes, and a chance to experience the laid-back pace of life in South India.

4. Discover the Holy City of Varanasi: Varanasi, on the banks of the Ganges River, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It's a spiritual hub with ghats, temples, and a unique atmosphere.

5. Trek in the Himalayas: India offers some incredible trekking opportunities in the Himalayan region. Popular treks include the Roopkund Trek, Valley of Flowers, and the Chadar Trek.

6. Go Wildlife Watching...