India at a Glance

Total Area: 3,287,590 square kilometers
Highest Point:  Kanchenjunga  8,598 meters
Lowest Point:  Indian Ocean
Capital City:  New Dehli
Independence Day:  August 15, 1947 (from the United Kingdom)
Government Type:  Federal Republic
Population:  1,065,070,607
Languages:  Hindi is the national language and the primary tongue of about 30% 0f the population.  However, English is the most important language for national, political and commercial communication. 
Currency:  Indian Rupee
GDP (per capita):  $2,900
Industries:  Textiles, mining, steel and computer software
Climate: The weather in India varies tremendously from north to south.  While monsoons blanket the central and southern regions of the country, the far north is not as affected.  The best weather conditions in the Zanskar region are found from May until October.  During this time period, the temperatures are warming up as well as the water levels dropping to reasonable levels.  However, this expedition takes place at extreme elevations and it is best to be prepared for all weather conditions.  It is not uncommon to experience temperatures in the 60’s and 70’s during the day and low 50’s at night.  It is also a good idea to be prepared for the sporadic rain shower as this climate may be a bit unpredictable.