India: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About India

India is a large country in South Asia that covers most of the Indian subcontinent. Its land ranges from the Himalayas in the north to deserts, rainforests and long tropical coastlines. It is known for its many languages, colourful festivals, spicy food and landmarks like the Taj Mahal.

About New Delhi

New Delhi lies on the west bank of the Yamuna River, just south of Old Delhi. It has been India's capital since 1931 and is known for India Gate and the grand Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Fun facts about India

1. The Taj Mahal in Agra was built of white marble by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife.
2. Most chess historians think chess grew from chaturanga, an ancient Indian board game.
3. Mawsynram in northeastern India is reported to be the wettest place on Earth, with nearly 12 metres of rain a year.
4. Asiatic lions live in the wild only in and around Gir National Park in the state of Gujarat.
5. Kangchenjunga, the third-tallest mountain in the world at 8,586 metres, lies on India's border with Nepal.
6. India's national emblem shows four Asiatic lions standing back to back, taken from the Lion Capital of Ashoka.