Latvia political map shows the international boundaries, provincial boundaries with names, the national capital, and provincial capitals.
Geography of Latvia
Latvia is normally a completely flat nation of low-lying grasslands and hugely covered by the forest. Some low hills can be found in the far southeast and west and some high hills can be seen towards the East of Riga; Gaizinkalns being the higher most point at 1,022 ft. Latvia is located along the shorelines of the Gulf of Riga and the Baltic Sea; the country is bordered by Estonia towards the north; Russia towards the east; Belarus towards the southeast, and Lithuania towards the south. Latvia has several rivers draining into the Baltic Sea; the biggest rivers include Daugava (known as the Western Dvina); Gauja (known as Gauya in Russia), the Venta; and the Lielupe.
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Demography of Latvia
The total population of Latvia as per the UN data is 1882,998 as of Aug 2020; equal to 0.02% of the overall population of the world. The country’s population density is 30/SqKm on a total landmass of 62,200SqKm. Around 68.6% of the overall population of Latvia is urban. Life expectancy at birth is 73 years for both males and females. The infant mortality rate is 2.9deaths/1000 births; while the death rate under age 5 is 4.8deaths/1000 births.
Culture of Latvia
Latvians follow the values and traditions of their ancestors; the culture immersed in the Latvian folktale that can best be enjoyed and experienced during the ‘Jani’ holiday. Massive Dance and Song can also be enjoyed during the festival along with the native handiwork and crafts; several events are organized by the museums, allowing visitors to participate in song, dance, and various other activities. Those who love performing arts and music would relish huge Opera festivals in Sigulda and Riga, along with varieties of festivals and concerts throughout the country. As per the 2015 census, approx. 62.6% of Latvians confirmed to be belonging to Christianity- out of which 19.7% are Russian Orthodox; 18.5% are Roman Catholic; 17.8% are Protestant; 6.1% native and 0.5% smaller Christian denominations. Though Latvian is the primary language of Latvia; a considerable number of people even speak Russian and English.
Best places to visit in Latvia
Riga
Riga, the biggest and the most thrilling city in the Baltics have a lot to excite the visitors. The hypnotic Architecture of the Gothic cathedrals; the world-class Art Nouveau, lively bars and cafes, and the relishing menu of haute cuisine, as well as the local market food and much more, are there to excite you.
Gauja National Park
The Gauja National Park would certainly relax you with its miles of spectacular hiking trails and greenery all around. You may even explore the captivating castles of the medieval period and might get exhilarated with bobsleighing, bungee jumping, and various other adventurous sports.
Jurmala
Jurmala is just 20 minutes away from Riga by road; it is a resort at the seaside, attracting numerous visitors throughout the year. You may find several fun activities and vibrant life here and the unique spas tempting people from every genre. While its urban life is happening; its scenic beauty is no less; Jurmala would beautifully connect you to nature by allowing you to take a stroll across the pine-fringed seashore. You may even admire spectacular timber summer cottages and several other things in Jurmala.
The most ideal time to visit Latvia is between April through September; birders specifically enjoy during the spring and autumn due to the migration of flocks of geese, divers, and ducks. Moreover, the autumn greenery is a scene to behold.
