The Ganges River, one of the most iconic rivers in the world, holds immense cultural, religious, and environmental significance. Here are some interesting facts about it:
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1. The Ganges is considered the holiest river in Hinduism. Pilgrims from all over India and the world come to bathe in its waters to cleanse themselves spiritually
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2. The Ganges is the longest river in India, stretching over 2,525 kilometres (1,569 miles) from its source in the Himalayas to its delta in the Bay of Bengal
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3. The Ganges originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Uttarakhand Himalayas at an altitude of 4,023 metres (13,200 feet)
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4. The Ganges Basin is home to over 400 million people, making it one of the most populous river basins in the world
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5. The river is home to a unique and diverse ecosystem. It is home to the Ganges River dolphin and the gangetic shark. It also hosts various fish, birds, and plant species
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6. The Ganges has been an integral part of Indian culture and civilisation for thousands of years, with numerous cities, temples, and pilgrimage sites located along its banks
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7. The Ganges is crucial to India's agricultural economy. Its fertile plains provide irrigation to millions of farmers
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8. The Ganges Delta, where the river meets the Bay of Bengal, is the largest delta in the world and is home to the Sundarbans mangrove forest
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9. The Ganges River and its surrounding landscape have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural, natural, and spiritual significance