If the Seven Wonders of the World demonstrate the human race's most impressive creations, then the Seven Wonders of the Natural World are proof — if proof is needed — that Mother Nature is just as talented an architect.
Compiled by CNN and Seven Natural Wonders in 1997, this list spans all 7 continents, and includes some of the greatest heights of the earth and depths of the oceans, some lesser known sites, and some well-known features that you may have already visited yourself.
While the list of Natural Wonders is often disputed, these seven locations are generally agreed upon as being among the most breathtaking natural sights anywhere in the world.
The Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon at Sunset, Arizona, USA – Thinkstock.comSituated in Arizona, USA, the 277-mile long Grand Canyon is a truly awe-inspiring sight. The canyon, up to a mile deep and some 18 miles wide at its broadest, was forged by the unstoppable course of the Colorado River. Scientists estimate that the river first carved out its path more than 17 million years ago, exposing a wealth of information on the geological history of the region as it cut through the land.
While in recent years increased safety measures have prevented visitors from approaching the edge of the canyon quite as closely they would like, the Grand Canyon site is still a popular tourist destination for anyone wishing to catch a glimpse of nature at its most powerful and majestic.
Parícutin
First Hand Account of the Formation of Parícutin – Youtube.com
One of the lesser-known entries on the list of Natural Wonders, Parícutin is just as impressive as many more well known landmarks. This particular wonder is an example of a near perfect cinder cone volcano located in Michoacán, Mexico.
What sets this particular volcano apart from the many others around the world is that modern scientists were able to observe and document every stage of its lifespan – from creation to extinction – as it happened. Over the course of the 1940s and 1950s, visiting experts and residents of the region were able to witness the volcano growing from a fissure in a cornfield to a mountainous height of 1,391 ft. Erupting for 19 years, the volcano went quiet in 1952, never expected to erupt again.
Aurora
Green Swirling Aurora, Canada – Thinkstock.comSeen in both polar regions of the planet, this dazzling light show is aptly referred to as the Northern (or Southern) Lights. Unlike most of the entries on this list, you can view an aurora from many different locations around the world; the higher the latitude, the more likely you are to see them.
While most of the Natural Wonders of the World play out on land or at sea, aurora are an unforgettable sight that can only be witnessed by looking to the skies. The effect is brought on by charged cosmic particles entering and interacting with the Earth's atmosphere, causing vivid colours to be painted across the night sky.
Humans have speculated about the cause of this night-time display of colour endlessly for centuries, with references to the lights being found in texts from Ancient Greece, in stories from Norse Mythology, and sources from Medieval England.
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls & Purple Sky at Dusk, Zambia – Thinkstock.comAs the Zambezi River crosses the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, its waters descend 355 feet down the astonishing Victoria Falls. The waterfall was named in 1855 for the reigning English monarch, Queen Victoria, by Scottish explorer David Livingstone during his famous journey across Africa. The indigenous name Mosi-oa-Tunya – or The Smoke that Thunders – is still in use locally, and in 2013 the government of Zimbabwe announced plans to officially rename the falls as such.
Victoria Falls isn't the highest or the broadest waterfall on the planet, but when taking both attributes into consideration, it qualifies as the largest. One particular highlight for visitors is the so-called 'Devil's Pool' that typically forms between September and December. The seasonally lowered level of the Zambezi river, combined with a rock barrier, make it possible to swim in a relatively sedate pool mere feet away from the edge of the falls. However, it's far from the safest option; several deaths have been reported in recent years.
Harbour of Rio de Janeiro
Summer Sunrise on Rio de Janeiro Harbour, Brazil – Thinkstock.comGuanabara Bay is a 19-mile stretch of land just to the east of Rio de Janeiro, the second largest city in Brazil. More than 100 islands are situated around the bay, including the car-free Paquetá Island, and Villegagnon Island, the site of the Brazilian Naval School.
While the bay once boasted a vibrant and diverse ecosystem, recent decades have seen the perils of urbanization wreak havoc on this once-beautiful environment. Thankfully, legislation put in place ahead of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio stipulates a requirement for the country's government to reinvigorate attempts to return the bay to its former glory. While there are doubts as to whether these plans will be executed as expected, locals and ecologists around the world remain hopeful that it's not too late to save this particular wonder.
Great Barrier Reef
Clownfish Poking Out of Anenome, Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Thinkstock.comMade up of nearly 3,000 individual reefs and almost 1,000 islands over a span of 1,400 miles, to truly understand the sheer scale of the Great Barrier Reef, you need to see it to believe it. While the Great Wall of China is often mistakenly described as being visible from space, astronauts and satellites have managed to capture images of the Barrier Reef.
Constructed by billions of miniscule organisms called coral polyps, the reef is a globally recognized landmark of Australia, and a point of pride for Australians around the globe. Lots of work is done each year to ensure that the delicate ecosystem of the reef is preserved for future generations; central to this effort is the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, a protective designation established in 1975 meant to protect the reef and the species within it.
Mount Everest
Climber Approaching Mount Everest, Nepal – Thinkstock.comLast, but certainly not least, is the world's highest point. Known as Sagarmāthā in Nepal, and Chomolungma in Tibet, Mount Everest is one of the most iconic natural features of the globe. At 29,029 feet tall, it's ranked first amongst mountains for both elevation and prominence. The five entries below it on the list of the world's highest peaks all name Everest as their parent mountain.
The first recorded attempts to scale Everest were made in the 1920s by British mountaineers, but it would take more than three decades until Sherpa Tenzing Norgay and New Zealander Edmund Hilary managed to reach the summit in 1953.
Today, climbing Everest isn't quite the unassailable goal that it once was — but those looking to do so still have to be in peak physical condition, and take great risks in undergoing the venture. However, conquering the mountain remains one of the greatest feats of man, and is a hugely popular challenge for anyone really looking to test their mettle.
With over 200 countries in the world, it's easy to think the word "country" equates to a massive land area with large numbers of people. Some nations are so small that cities within other nations are giants compared to them. Mostly found in Europe, the Carribean, and the Pacific, there are many countries in the world with an area of less than 400 square kilometers.
With their own governments and own culture, these small countries are some of the richest, most remote, and most intriguing places in the world. Let's take a look at the 10 smallest countries in the world today:
10 – Grenada - 344 km²
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An island nation in the Caribbean, Grenada is also known as “The Island of Spice." The world's largest producer of nutmeg and mace crops, this nation located northwest of Trinidad and Tobago was colonized by the French from 1649 to 1763, which explains the very strong influence of French tradition and culture in the country. A popular tourist destination, you'll find French-influenced architecture and art all around the island, with cricket as the most popular sport.
9 – Malta - 316 km²
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Malta is another island country, however, its located in the Mediterranean Sea. 3 major islands make up the Republic of Malta: Gozo, Comino, and the largest, Malta. This small country has a population of over 450,000 inhabitants, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Another popular tourist destination, foreigners from all over the world come to Malta for its sunny weather, attractive beaches, over 7,000 years of intriguing history, and a still vibrant nightlife.
8 – Maldives - 300 km²
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A popular tourist destination in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is the smallest country in Asia in terms of area and population. There are over 1,192 coral islands in the Maldives, which are spread over 90,000 sq.km, making it one of the world's most dispersed countries. The country was once the colony of many empires, the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British, but became an independent country in 1965. Today, the Maldives has a vibrant tourism economy due to its famous white sand beaches and crystal blue waters.
7 – Saint Kitts and Nevis - 261 km²
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The Mother Colony of the West Indies, these 2 islands in the Caribbean were some of the first islands to be occupied by Europeans. Its economy is dependent on tourism, agriculture, and small manufacturing industries. The islands also provide fantastic diving sites due to abundant marine life. A major sugar exporter for centuries, the large plantations are now beautiful estates that have been converted into hotels and resorts.
6 – Liechtenstein - 160 km²
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A German-speaking country, this is the only nation in the world to be completely located in the Alps. Located between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is the richest country in the world by GDP per capita, with the lowest unemployment rate (1.5%). Getting into the country is a little tricky without an airport. Visitors must go through Switzerland's Zurich Airport to reach this Alpine country that's still ruled by a prince.
5 – San Marino - 61 km²
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Surrounded completely by Italy, San Marino is also known as the Most Serene Republic of San Marino. Claiming to be the oldest surviving sovereign state in the world, it is also one of the wealthiest in terms of GDP per capita. The 3rd smallest country in Europe, it has a population of only 30,000, boasting of one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world.
4 – Tuvalu - 26 km²
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Formerly known as the Ellice Islands, Tuvalu is located in the Pacific Ocean, west of Australia. There are about 10,000 inhabitants, with 8km of roads, and only 1 hospital present on the main island. The country was once a British territory but became independent in 1978. A difficult place to get to, tourism is not very significant. In 2010, less than 2,000 visitors came to Tuvalu, with 65% of them coming for business.
3 – Nauru - 21 km²
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An island nation located east of Australia, Nauru is the smallest island country in the world. It was known in the 1980's for a booming phosphate mining but is now a quiet island off the radar of tourists. Formerly known as Pleasant Island, its phosphate resources are now depleted, leading to a 90% national unemployment rate, with the remaining 10% employed by the government. Nauru is also known as the country with the most obese people in the world, with 97% of its men and 93% of women being obese or overweight. Because of this, Nauru is also home to the world's highest level of type 2 diabetes, with 40% of its population suffering from the ailment.
2 – Monaco - 2 km²
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Located on the French Riviera, Monaco is home to the largest number of millionaires and billionaires per capita in the world. Known for its gambling and luxury goods and services industry, Monaco is a favourite playground of the rich and famous. Bordered by France on 3 sides and one side by the Mediterranean Sea, the residents of Monaco are mostly French-speaking. With a population of over 36,000, Monaco is the world's most densely populated country. The most popular annual event is the Formula 1 race, with tracks passing through the city streets.
1 – Vatican - 0.44 km²
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The world's smallest country is the Vatican, also known as the Holy See. This country fits within the Italian capital city of Rome, and is the center of the Catholic Church. It is also home to the biggest church in the world – St. Peter's Basilica, and holds some of the most significant art works of the Renaissance such as The Pieta and the Creation of Adam. Its income comes from the voluntary contributions of over 1 billion members of the Roman Catholic Church around the world. The remainder of its economy comes from the sales of postage stamps, tourist mementos, and admission fees of museums.
First, whatever happens, the country shall not be called United States of India. To be historically correct, it may be called United States of Hind.
Second, I can go to Lahore and Islamabad and eat lots of mughlai food.
Third, I can go to Dhaka easily and eat Hilsa.
Fourth, I can see many of the major archeological sites of the Indus Valley Civilization.
Fifth, we can have a kick a#$ cricket team, field hockey team, squash team, and Polo team.
Sixth, many terrorist and militants will have to learn something new and search for new jobs.
Seventh, we can have train journey lasting for four days - from Arunachal Pradesh to Balochistan..... or from Chennai to Peshawar
Eighth, I can go to Khyber Pass, and recite the lines of Amitabh from Khuda Gawah "Ay Sarjamine..... etc. etc."
Ninth, we can have two cities with the name Hyderabad in the same country. As a result there will be railway tickets or plane tickets for oneway journey with From: Hyderabad To: Hyderabad.
Tenth, we shall have two of the largest mosques in the subcontinent in the same country.
Eleventh, we shall have all the 51 places where Devi Parvati's body parts resides in the same country.
Twelfth, both Nankana Sahib and Golden Temple will be in the same country.
Thirteenth, we can have two different time zones - Patna/Kolkata Time and Karachi/Mumbai/Gandhinagar Time.
ok that is it. All these could happen. Hypothetically if that happens, here are the advantages.
1. The combined country would be able to play a greater role in the SAARC region.
2. The economy would be a more stable and it would lead to greater standard of living to the people.
3. The combined country would have one of the world's largest army. And geographically it would be a tactical advantage as the mountains would act as natural barriers.
4. Great variety of food.
5. Probably, we will have the best cricket team in the world.
6. On a lighter note, it would be the country with world's largest population and would be the most culturally diverse country.
Amidst chanting of hymns from the Atharva Veda, Vikrant, India’s first aircraft carrier, decommissioned on 31 January 1997, was reborn today as Smt Elizabeth Antony, wife of the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony, christened India’s first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) as ‘Vikrant’ meaning “courageous” or “victorious” in Sanskrit.
In a colourful ceremony filled with traditional pomp and fervour at the Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi, Smt. Antony launched ‘Vikrant’ in the presence of Shri AK Antony, the Defence Minister, Shri GK Vasan, the Minister of Shipping, Admiral DK Joshi, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Shekhar Sinha, the F-O-C in C Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Satish Soni, Commander-in-Chief Southern Naval Command, Commodore (Retd) K Subramaniam, Chairman and Managing Director, CSL, and other officials of the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Shipping. In addition, a multitude of Naval officers, yard workers and a few members of the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), the manufacturers of the indigenous warship grade steel, were also present.
At the launch, marking the end of Phase- I of the project, the imposing ramp of the 37,500 tonne Short Take off but Assisted Recovery (STOBAR) Carrier boasted the indigenous design and build capabilities of the country. The ship has attained its designed length of about 260 m and is almost at its maximum breadth of 60 m. The main landing strip is ready. Over 80% of the structure, containing about 2300 compartments has been fabricated, over 75% has been erected, all the major machinery, such as the two LM2500 Gas Turbines developing a total power of 80 MW, the diesel alternators capable of producing about 24 MW and the main gear box have been fitted. Soon after Vikrant floated perfectly upright, she was launched out into the Ernakulam Channel in a pontoon assisted precision manoeuvre. Vikrant was moved out of the building dock to be positioned in the refitting dock where the next Phase of outfitting will be completed.
Describing the occasion as a ‘momentous’ one, Shri Antony said,“ Today’s launching of the IAC marks just the first step in a long journey, but at the same time, an important one.” He said it was indeed a proud moment for the country to witness our efforts at achieving self-reliance in the field of warship design and construction, as only a very few advanced countries in the world possess the capability to design and build aircraft carriers.
Shri Antony said we must continue the process of strengthening indigenous capability towards securing our maritime interests. ‘Our Navy must continue to maintain high operational readiness at all times to ward off any likely misadventure against our national interests’, he said.
The Defence Minister urged the Indian industry to participate whole-heartedly in our shipbuilding programmes and further consolidate our strength in this field.
Speaking on the occasion, the Shipping Minister Shri GK Vasan said by launching this great warship which is one of the most important ships for the Indian Navy, Indian shipbuilding has demonstrated its technical capability and expertise.
The design and construction of the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier was sanctioned by the government in January 2003. The keel of the ship was laid on 28 Feb 2009 by Shri AK Antony. Vikrant marks a special feather in indigenous defence capabilities- this being the first ever aircraft carrier to be designed by the Directorate of Naval Design of the Indian Navy, the first warship to be built by Cochin Shipyard Limited and the first warship to be built entirely using indigenously produced steel. The construction of the ship is a truly pan Indian effort with active participation of private and public enterprises. The steel has come from SAIL’s plants in Raurkela in Orissa, Bokaro in Jharkand and Bhilai in Chattisgarh; the Main Switch Board, steering gear and water tight hatches have been manufactured by Larsen and Toubro in its plants in Mumbai and Talegaon; the high capacity air conditioning and refrigeration systems have been manufactured in Kirloskar’s plants in Pune; most pumps have been supplied by Best and Crompton, Chennai; Bharat Heavy Engineering Limited (BHEL) is supplying the Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS); the massive gear box is supplied by Elecon in Gujarat; the tens of thousands of electrical cable is supplied by Nicco industries in Kokatta; Kolkatta is also where the ship’s anchor chain cable is manufactured.
Vikrant will be capable of operating an aircraft mix of the Russian MiG-29K and LCA (Navy) fighters being developed indigenously by HAL. Its helicopter component will include the Kamov 31 and the indigenously developed ALH helicopters. The ship’s ability to sense and control a large air space around it will be enabled by modern C/D band Early Air Warning Radar, V/UHF Tactical Air Navigational and Direction Finding systems, jamming capabilities over the expected Electro Magnetic (EM) environment and Carrier Control Approach Radars to aid air operations. Long Range Surface to Air Missile (LR SAM) systems with Multi-Function Radar (MFR) and Close- In Weapon System (CIWS) will form the protective suite of the ship. All weapon systems onboard the carrier will be integrated through an indigenous Combat Management System (CMS), being manufactured by Tata Power systems. The ship’s integration with Navy’s Network Centric Operations will provide force multiplication.
Design of this prestigious ship has been undertaken by the Directorate of Naval Design (DND)of the Indian Navy. Created in 1956 as the Corps of Naval Constructors, to realise the dream of being a builder’s Navy through indigenisation, DND has successfully designed over 17 different classes of warships, to which around 90 ships have already been built within the country. The Delhi class destroyers, with a displacement of about 7000 tonnes, were the biggest warships designed by DND so far. Designing of the Vikrant, at almost 40,000 tonnes speaks of the maturing of the capabilities of DND and represents a feather in the cap of the designers particularly as it is the first aircraft carrier of its size in the world with some unique features such as Gas Turbine Propulsion.
The seamless hull and smooth lines of the ship stand as testimony to the high production standards of Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). CSL, a mini Ratna PSU, has earned a reputation for quality construction and timely delivery. Till now, CSL had the distinction of building the largest ship in India i.e., 93,500 tonne Aframax tankers. However, this complex integrated construction project enabled by a Rs 200 Crores infrastructure augmentation plan involving large cranes, workshops and heavy duty machinery has seen the shipyard maturing into a competent warship builder.
Vikrant will now enter the second phase of construction which will see the outfitting of the ship, fitment of various weapons and sensors, integration of the gigantic propulsion system and integration of the aircraft complex (with the assistance of M/s NDB of Russia). The ship will then undergo extensive trials before she is handed over to the Indian Navy by around 2016-17.
About INS Vikrant .
It may be recalled that at the time of attaining our Independence, our visionary leaders saw the centrality of a powerful Navy and set us on the right course by envisaging an aircraft carrier centred Indian Navy. INS Vikrant, India’s first aircraft carrier was acquired from Great Britain and commissioned on 04 Mar 1961. In its 36 years of glorious service INS Vikrant was at the centre of action in the 1971 operations for liberation of Bangladesh. Having seen many years of service as a CATOBAR (Catapult Assisted Take Off but Arrested Recovery) carrier working an angled deck and operating Sea Hawks, Alizes and Seakings, INS Vikrant was transformed into a STOVL carrier to operate Sea Harrier jump jets. INS Vikrant was decommissioned on 31 Jan 1997, after 36 years of glorious service under the Indian ensign. With the launch of IAC, ‘Vikrant’ the Indian Navy is well on its way to demonstrate its comfort with the practiced art of trapped landings and angled deck operations.
Partial Sources: CIA.gov, CIA World Factbook, wikipedia.com, public domain print and media sources and user contributions. Some values may be estimated when official sources are lacking.
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