India is one the most popular travel destination for the people who love to explore famous historical places. Forts and castles, sanctuaries and burial places, the remnants of old urban areas, and the flourishing cityscapes that actually overwhelm and enchant guests today- Historical sites in India sell out such a lot of excellence and variety that picking only a couple of dozen felt like an unthinkable undertaking. Nevertheless, after a lot of thinking, I’ve figured out how to limit the list of important monuments and landmarks in India.
I am sharing an Initial rundown of the 19 remarkable monuments in India. Utilize this article as your aide when you next set out to explore India, however, remember that, with regards to the most mind-boggling tourist spots in India, these truly are only the start of the tour of historical monuments in India.
List of Top Historical Places in India:
Rich castles, antiquated strongholds, and glorious designs welcome you at each alcove and corner of our lofty nation – India. This rich history overflows out of every antiquated construction and renowned authentic famous monument of India that portrays stories of sentiment, valiance, strength, and battles. Let’s take a look at the 19 top ones (According to me) that I have explored personally.
1. Amber Fort, Jaipur:
Known as one of the most appealing and famous monuments of India, this fortress of Jaipur, the Amber Fort is one of those noteworthy places in Jaipur that you shouldn’t miss. It was developed by Sawai Jai Singh and addresses the ideal illustration of extraordinary design and insides.
The fortress offers numerous attractions to its guests including Sheesh Mahal, Jal Mandir, Diwan-I-Aam, and Khaas which leaves the guests entranced with its magnificence. Even though I belong to the Pink City, having visited the Amber Fort many times, I still find it a new mystery to reveal every time I go there. No wonder it is among the top historical landmarks in India.
Built By | Raja Man Singh |
Built In | 1592 |
Timings | Daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 100/- for Indians and Rs. 550/- for Foreigner. |
Interesting Facts | A fort with innumerable courtyards, audience halls, garden, temple |
Nearby Attractions | Jaigarh Fort, Govind Devji Temple, Jal Mahal |
Stay Options | The Amer Valley Hotel, Hotel Amer View, Hotel Green Valley |
If you are one who love exploring forts, you must visit our special article where we have covered over 27 historical forts to visit in Rajasthan.
2. Jantar Mantar, Jaipur:
Not at all like the numerous other memorable landmarks of Jaipur, the Jantar Mantar is one of those noteworthy and most visited monuments in India, which actually remain as running proof for the magnificence of the astounding and eminent antiquated work.
One of the most visited historical buildings in India, this landmark was implicit the year 1727 and work date, it is perhaps the most well-known vacation spot. You can observe the spot found extremely close to the city royal residence of Jaipur.
Built By | Sawai Jai Singh II |
Built In | 1728 – 1734 |
Timings | Every Day at 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 50/- for Indians and Rs. 200/- for Foreigner |
Interesting Facts | The Jantar Mantar is a collection of 19 astronomical instruments which is built by Sawai Jai Singh II |
Nearby Attractions | Hawa Mahal, The City Palace, Diwan-e-Khas |
Stay Options | Virasat Mahal Heritage Hotel, Hotel Jaisingh Palace, Hotel Wind Palace |
3. Taj Mahal, Agra:
Meet the Boss of historical Places in India – one of the seven wonders of the new world as well as the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal will consistently be positioned highest in the rundown of the top recorded historical places of India. Investigate a definitive exemplification of adoration, the Taj Mahal, whose greatness stays unparalleled in history and today this is one of the ends of the week escapes from Delhi.
This lavish white marble structure was designed to be worked in 1632 by Shah Jahan for his late spouse Mumtaz Mahal. It took around 22 years to finish this wonderfully designed Mausoleum. As per the legend, it was accepted that Shah Jahan cut off the hands of the relative multitude of laborers who fabricated the Taj Mahal so that no comparative landmark could ever be assembled again. The Taj Mahal is the pride of the nation among the national monuments of India.
Built By | Mughal emperor Shah Jahan |
Built In | 1632 |
Timings | 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on all weekdays except Friday |
Ticket Price | Rs. 50/- for Indians and Rs. 1100/- for Foreigner |
Interesting Facts | The Taj Mahal seems pink in the morning, milky white in the evening, and golden at night |
Nearby Attractions | Agra Fort, Akbar’s Tomb |
Stay Options | Hotel Taj Resorts, Hotel Kant Palace, Hotel Atulyaa Taj |
4. Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat:
Quite possibly one of the most neglected recorded spots in India, this stepwell was implicit in the eleventh century AD, as a memorial for King Bhimdev of the Solanki administration by his significant other Queen Udayamati. You will feel like a subterranean insect descending an ant colony when you investigate the Rani ki Vav stepwell as it is a monstrous design that is around 24 meters deep.
The most reduced level of the stepwell was before being utilized as a course to disappear to adjoining towns. The focal level has the subject Dasavatars which implies 10 manifestations of Vishnu, and that when you approach the water level there will be a model of Lord Vishnu leaning back on 1,000 snakeheads. It is one of the most lovely places to visit in Gujarat and it was an amazing experience to explore the same.
Built By | Rani Udayamati |
Built In | 1063 |
Timings | Daily 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 35/- for Indians and Rs. 550/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | Rani Ki Vav was constructed using the Maru Gurjara style of architecture which was famous during chaulukya period |
Nearby Attractions | Shri Panchasara Parshwanath Jain Temple, Modhera Sun Temple |
Stay Options | The Grand Raveta, Hotel CarreFour, Hotel the Grand Jashi Residency, Hotel the Grand Piano |
5. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan:
One more renowned fortification in Rajasthan, the Kumbhalgarh is popular for the glorious fortress just as the natural life asylum and one of the best historical monuments of India. Worked by King Kumbha, it falls under the consideration of the locale of Rajsamand. It is additionally just 82 km from Udaipur, making it an extraordinary road trip in case you are in the city.
It is a significant vacation destination because of the glorious design of the royal residence. You will be astounded to realize that the walls of Kumbhalgarh are the second-longest on the planet after the Great Wall of China; thus no wonder among the national monuments of India.
Built By | Rana Kumbha |
Built In | 15th century |
Timings | Every Day at 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 40/- for Indians and Rs. 200/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | Kumbhalgarh Fort has an impressive and massive wall that stretches over 36 kilometers, the second-longest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China |
Nearby Attractions | Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Palace of Clouds, Parshuram Mahadev |
Stay Options | Kavish The Haveli Resort, The Kumbha Mahal Resort, Tiger Valley Resort |
Read Also: 27 Most Famous Forts and Palaces in Rajasthan: A Journey Through Royal India
6. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Madhya Pradesh:
Bhimbetka Rock Shelters in Madhya Pradesh are an archaeological site tracing all the way back to the ancient age and one of the well-known historical spots in India. These ancient places in India, safeguard confirmations of the Stone Age in the type of antiquated cavern canvases.
The works of art are accepted to be around 30, 000 years of age. However the presence of Bhimbetka caves traces all the way back to quite a while, they were found uniquely in 1957.
In 2003, Bhimbetka was perceived as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are around 500 caverns and rock shields that assist it with fitting the bill for the Best Historic Places to visit in India
Timings | Every Day at 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 25/- for Indians and Rs. 500/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | Their cave paintings that provide evidence of human civilization during 8,000 B.C. |
Nearby Attractions | Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple, Ginnorgarh Fort, Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary |
Stay Options | Lotuslap Resort, Narmade River View Resort, Hotel Shiv Shakti |
7. Jallianwala Bagh, Punjab:
The scandalous Jallianwala Bagh slaughter was held here, close to the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Covering around 6.5 sections of land, it is where General Dyer ordered a mass shooting on Baisakhi. A huge number of honest people surrendered to a cruel massacre here that ignited the fire of Independence in India.
This monument was built in the memory here and dedicated to the nation here on thirteenth April 1961 by the then president, Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Timings | Every Day 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | No entry fee |
Nearby Attractions | Durgiana Temple, Golden Temple, Gobindgarh Fort |
Stay Options | Surestay Hotel Amritsar, Hotel Urban Galaxy |
8. Golden Temple, Punjab:
The rich history and a gold overlay outside are the features of the Golden Temple or the Har Mandir Sahib in Amritsar. Sikhs from everywhere over the world come to pay respect at the Golden Temple. Consequently one of the most famous buildings in India, this spot has acquired incredible significance in India’s travel history and industry. Worked by Arjan Sahib with the assistance of Baba Budha Ji, this Sikh sanctuary is done in Indo-Islamic design style.
The sanctuary is really a little piece of a strict complex, which likewise has a well-known lake that is said to have healing powers. The lower level of the sanctuary is enhanced with themes of blossoms and creatures like that of the Taj Mahal and the upper level is overlaid with sheets of gold, giving it a look that procured it a name as Golden Temple.
Built By | Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru |
Built In | 1604 |
Timings | Every day 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | No entry fee |
Interesting Facts | Temple is made of marble and gold and it serves free meals more than 35,000 people daily |
Nearby Attractions | Gobindgarh Fort, Jallianwala Bagh, Har ki Pauri |
Stay Options | Surestay heritage walk by best western, Hotel CJ International |
9. Champaner Pavagadh Archaeological Park:
Sitting in Gujarat, Champaner Pavagadh Archeological Park has found itself a spot on the rundown of UNESCO World Sites. Sitting in the core of Champaner and being encircled by Pavagadh Hills, this Archeological Park is perhaps one of the most excellent ancient places in India, alongside being of fanciful importance.
It is said that the Pavagadh slope is a piece of the Himalayas that was conveyed by Lord Hanuman to Lanka in the renowned Hindu Epic Ramayana. One can observe a broad number of engineering wonders that both feature the styles of Hindu and Islamic architectural plans.
Timings | Every Day 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 30/- for Indians and Rs. 500/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | It showcases a blend of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic architecture and also offers a rich history dating back to the 8th century |
Nearby Attractions | Pavagadh Hill, Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, Jami Masjid |
Stay Options | Hotel Hill View, Neelkanth Resort, Richa Hotel Palace |
10. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi:
The final resting spot of Mughal Emperor Humayun ends up being a rich castle and famous monuments of India…more than just being a burial chamber. Situated in New Delhi, Humayun Tomb is one of the most incredible safeguarded Mughal landmarks and most visited monuments in India. This catacomb is likewise the first and best illustration of Mughal design in the country. Following a century from its development, Humayun’s burial place propelled the development of the well-known Taj Mahal.
Built By | Biga Begum |
Built In | 1569-70 |
Timings | Every Day at 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 30/- for Indians and Rs. 500/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | Humayun’s Tomb was the first and the largest of the Mughal tombs in India |
Nearby Attractions | Lodhi Garden, Red Fort, Lotus Temple, Lodhi Garden |
Stay Options | JRD Pride, The Sunrise Vista, Hotel Kabli |
11. India Gate, Delhi:
One of the top historical buildings in India, the India gate is situated on the Rajpath and was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. Committed to the 82,000 troopers of both Indian and British drop who battled in World War One and 13,300 fighters who were martyred in the Third Anglo-Afghan War, it was completed in 1931.
Consistently, the Republic Day Parade is held here. It is one of the most popular monuments in India among the local people as well as the vacationers. This 42-meter landmark is regularly contrasted with the Arch de Triomphe in Paris and the Arch of Constantine in Rome.
Built In | 1921 |
Timings | Any Time |
Ticket Price | No entry fee |
Interesting Facts | India Gate is known as the largest war memorial in India. |
Nearby Attractions | National Museum, New Delhi, Lodhi Garden, Purana Quila |
Stay Options | The Grand Uddhav, Hotel Toronto, Hotel Connaught Royale |
Read Also: Tourist Places To Visit In Delhi For Weekend Getaways
12. Qutub Minar, Delhi:
Built in the era of Qutub-ud-Din Aibak, Qutub Minar isn’t just a significant milestone of Delhi but also addresses the rich design heritage of India. This 73m high pinnacle is superb in size and is wonderful in view, and no wonder one of the most visited historical buildings in India. The pinnacle was worked by Aibak after the last Hindu ruler was crushed and is figured to be worked to praise the start of the Mughal rule in India. At the foot of the pinnacle is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, which is accepted to be the first mosque to be underlying Quite a while.
The fundamental mosque contains an inward and external patio, which is enriched with shafts and encompassed by columns. The greater part of these shafts is from the Hindu sanctuaries, which were obliterated to build the mosque. It is, subsequently, not unexpected that the Muslim mosque has average Hindu ornamentation. Near the mosque is one of Delhi’s most acclaimed collectables, the Iron Pillar – one of the legendary Historical Places in India.
Built By | Qutub-ud-din Aibak |
Built In | 1192 |
Timings | Every Day 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 35/- for Indians and Rs. 550/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | There is a 2,000-year-old iron pillar in the complex that hasn’t rusted over two centuries. |
Nearby Attractions | Humayun’s Tomb, Red Fort, Iron Pillar |
Stay Options | Qutub Residency Hotel, Golden Home Stay, Hotel Pluto’s |
13. Red Fort, Delhi:
One of the most famous buildings in India and a verifiable vacation place, the Red Fort was built for more than a long time from 1638 to 1648. This fortress was built when Shah Jahan moved the capital from Agra to Delhi and it was then known as the Qila-e-Mubarak.
This octagonal stronghold is quite possibly the most well-known verifiable historical spot in north India and is additionally the site where the President gives his discourse on Independence Day. The Red Fort was really white as it was made of limestone. The British painted it red when the limestone began chipping off.
Built By | Emperor Shah Jahan |
Built In | 1638 |
Timings | Every Day at 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 35/- for Indians and Rs. 500/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | The planning and structure of the fort represent the culmination of architectural development |
Nearby Attractions | Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate |
Stay Options | Comfort Inn the President, Hotel the Tark, Hotel the Magic Tree |
14. Fatehpuri Sikri, Uttar Pradesh:
The illustrious city of Fatehpur Sikri was once the capital of the Mughal period during emperor Akbar’s rule. This illustrious city is one of the chronicled vacationer places in India and once had royal residences, public structures, mosques, quarters for the ruler, the military just as the workers.
Further, the all-around arranged imperial city with cut segments and designed columns was worked between 1571-1573 AD and deserted because of a deficiency of water. Legend has it that impotent women still come here to pray for the blessing of children.
Built By | Emperor Akbar |
Built In | Between 1571 and 1573 |
Timings | 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Closed on Friday) |
Ticket Price | Rs. 50/- for Indians and Rs. 610/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | It contains other early Mughal structures, exhibiting both Hindu and Muslim architectural influences. |
Nearby Attractions | Jodha Bai’s Palace, Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal |
Stay Options | Hotel RS Blue Fatehpur Sikri, Hotel Surya Vilas Palace, The Royal Krishna Resort |
15. Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Aurangabad:
One of the most eye-catching spots in India would be Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Tracing all the way back to the second century BC, these caverns are the impression of the way of life of early men in the country. These stone-cut caverns boast rich models and divider artworks. Ajanta Caves can for the most part be alluded to as Buddhist caverns while Ellora Caves can be called Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist caverns. Ajanta and Ellora Caves are among quite possibly the most all-around saved landmarks and top-visited ancient places in India.
Timings | 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Closed on Tuesday) |
Ticket Price | Rs. 40/- for Indians and Rs. 600/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | The caves showcase a blend of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist religious and artistic traditions |
Nearby Attractions | Grishneshwar Temple Aurangabad, Kailasa Temple |
Stay Options | Hotel Ajanta green restaurant & resort, Hiranya Resorts, Hotel Kailas |
16. Konark Temple, Odisha:
The Konark Temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history or architecture. Built in the 13th century, the temple is a masterpiece of Orissan temple architecture, with intricate carvings and a stunningly tall spire. The temple is also of great historical importance, as it was built by King Narasingha Deva I to commemorate his victory over the invading Muslim army of Malik Kafur.
Today, the Konark Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can explore the temple grounds and learn about its fascinating history.
Built By | Narasimhadeva I |
Built In | 13th century |
Timings | Every at 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 30/- for Indians and Rs. 500/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | The first ray of the sun falls on the temple’s main entrance. |
Nearby Attractions | Konark Beach, Lingaraj temple |
Stay Options | The Pearl, Kings Coco Resort, Hotel Landmark |
17. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur:
Hawa Mahal, a palace in Jaipur, was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The palace is constructed with beautiful red and pink sandstone. It has 953 windows and is five stories tall.
Hawa Mahal is one of the most popular historical places in India because of its unique architecture and history. Visitors can learn about the culture and traditions of India by visiting the palace. They can also take pictures of the beautiful sandstone structure.
Built By | Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh |
Built In | 1799 |
Timings | Every Day 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | Rs. 50/- for Indians and Rs. 200/- for Foreigners |
Interesting Facts | It has 5 floors and there are no stairs to climb, there are only ramps to reach the upper floors |
Nearby Attractions | City Palace of Jaipur, Jantar Mantar, Amber Palace |
Stay Options | Virasat Mahal Heritage Hotel, Hotel Indo Prime, Hotel Rajasthan Palace |
18. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya:
The Mahabodhi Temple is located in Bodh Gaya, India, and is considered one of the significant ancient monuments of India. This is a must-visit place for those interested in Buddhist history and culture. The temple dates back to the 6th century and is the site of Buddha’s MahabodhinTree. The tree is said to be a direct descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
There are also many other significant historical artifacts in the temple complex, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in exploring the origins of Buddhism. In addition, the temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. If you are looking to explore Buddhist history and culture, the Mahabodhi Temple is a must-visit destination.
Built By | Emperor Asoka |
Built In | 3rd century |
Timings | Every day 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | No entry fee |
Interesting Facts | Temple houses a descendant of the Bodhi tree under which the Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment |
Nearby Attractions | Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue, Muchalinda Lake |
Stay Options | Hotel Tathagat Bodhgaya, Buddha Heritage Resort, Royal Sujata Inn Hotel |
19. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai:
When it comes to listing the popular historical monuments of India, the list cannot be completed without naming Meenakshi Amman Temple. The temple is located in the city of Madurai, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Every year, millions of pilgrims visit the temple to worship the presiding deity, Meenakshi, a form of the Hindu goddess Parvati. The temple complex is also home to thousands of other statues and shrines, making it one of the largest temples in India.
The temple is known for its magnificent architecture. In addition, its annual festivals also attract visitors from all over the world. If you ever visit India, don’t forget to add the Meenakshi Amman Temple to your list of places to see.
Built By | Kulasekara Pandya |
Built In | Between 1623 and 1655 |
Timings | Every day 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
Ticket Price | No entry fee |
Interesting Facts | The temple complex is enhanced with four towering gateways known as Gopurams |
Nearby Attractions | Arulmigu Koodal Azhagar Temple, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, Gandhi Memorial Museum |
Stay Options | Hotel Temple View Annexe, Hotel Sabareesh Plaza, Hotel Lotus |
Conclusion:
Since India is an immense country, it makes it hard to choose which of the most visited monuments in India to visit at priority among so many. The nation is so rich and has various historical monuments of India. So start with these, till I share the next list of mine! Bon Voyage!
FAQs About Historical Places in India
The famous monuments of South India are
1. Temples of Mahabalipuram
2. Monuments of Hampi
3. Mysore Palace, Mysore
4. Charminar, Hyderabad
5. Vivekananda Rock Memorial
Some of the famous historical places in Gujarat are
1. Rani Ki vav. Archaeological site.
2. Mahabat Maqbara
4. Laxmi Vilas Palace
5. Sabarmati Ashram
6. Dwarkadhish Temple
7. Uperkot Fort
8. Adalaj Stepwell
The famous historical temples in South India are
1. Meenakshi temple
2. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
3. Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
4. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
5. Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
Here is the list of some of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India
1. Taj Mahal (1983)
2. Red Fort Complex (2007)
3. Fatehpur Sikri (1986)
4. Khajuraho Group of Monuments (1986)
5. Ajanta Caves (1983)
6. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) (2004)
7. Ellora Caves (1983)
8. Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi (1993)
9. Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, Gujarat (2014)
10. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya (2002)
Atharv Pratap Singh
April 21, 2024 at 11:52 am
Such a great potential towards providing knowledgeable facts about heritage and I’ll be waiting for more historical spots into your lists