Why is Ethiopia 7 years behind the rest of the world?

Ethiopia, often overlooked as a vacation destination, holds a wealth of intrigue, boasting a blend of scenic natural wonders, rare wildlife, captivating history, and a deeply rooted identity. Visiting Ethiopia might feel like stepping back in time, unveiling a land that defies common misconceptions of famine and drought.

The country's diverse and fertile landscape challenges stereotypes, featuring everything from castles to deserts and rare wildlife. Ethiopia's status as an underrated travel destination stems from the lesser-known facts that make it truly exceptional. Read on to know more.
Its unique calendar system!One of the most fascinating aspects of Ethiopia is its unique calendar system. Unlike the Western Gregorian calendar with 12 months, Ethiopia follows a 13-month calendar, placing it seven years behind. The Ethiopians welcomed the new millennium on September 11, 2007, adhering to a calendar dating back to 525 AD, preceding the Roman church's amendment. This unique calendar is deeply intertwined with Ethiopia's rich cultural and religious heritage. The 13-month system is believed to have originated from the ancient Coptic calendar, which emphasises the significance of religious observances.

Read more: Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour: Places to bookmark if you are a Swiftie
The Ethiopian calendar incorporates a 13th month, Pagume, which consists of five days (six in a leap year). This additional month is associated with religious festivals, harvest celebrations, and cultural events, creating a distinctive rhythm to the Ethiopian way of life. The calendar also aligns with the country's agricultural seasons.

Any challenge for travellers?
While this calendar discrepancy doesn't pose significant challenges for travellers, it plays a pivotal role in shaping the Ethiopian cultural landscape. Most Ethiopians are now familiar with the Gregorian calendar and may use both interchangeably, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity in this culturally rich nation.

The 13-month calendar adds a layer of depth to Ethiopia's allure, offering a unique perspective on timekeeping that reflects the country's enduring connection to its ancient roots and cultural identity.
Read more: 6 Indian prisons where you can walk free as a tourist

It’s also the land of oldest peopleVarious archaeological discoveries in the Afar region of Ethiopia strongly indicate that this could be the place where human origins trace back. In 1974, the region yielded the discovery of Lucy, a 3.2-million-year-old hominid skeleton, marking it as the oldest fossilised skeleton ever found.



Religion and dietThe predominant religion in Ethiopia is orthodox Christianity, observed by nearly half the population. Followers of this faith engage in fasting for approximately 200-250 days a year. Ethiopian fasting differs from the conventional notion, involving abstaining from all animal products, including eggs, meat, and dairy. This fasting practice extends to religious holidays, which are numerous in Ethiopia, along with a weekly observance every Wednesday and Friday throughout the year. Consequently, restaurants commonly feature delectable spicy vegan stews on their menus.