Historical places in India that should be on your bucket list
India is rich in its diverse culture and thanks to this, our country is filled with historic places as well. If you want to understand the culture and history better, travelling is the best way. Here is a list of top historical places in India that should be on your bucket list.
Taj Mahal – Agra
As one of the world’s wonders, the iconic Taj Mahal had to be in this list. The beautiful ivory-white marble mausoleum was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The construction of this tomb employed 20,000 artisans and attracts millions of visitors every year. One of the calligraphic inscriptions on the marble is the ninety-nine names of God. A reflecting pool and well-maintained gardens lead up to this marvellous structure. Complement your visit with a wholesome stay at the Agra Regal Vista for an unforgettable vacation.
Hawa Mahal – Jaipur
The Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Breeze, in Jaipur, was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. It is one of Jaipur’s distinct landmarks. This massive five storied structure has 953 beautiful latticed windows or jharokhas that were used by royal ladies to watch the city sightings or proceedings.
Ajanta and Ellora – Aurangabad
Beginning with the 2nd century B.C., and continuing into the 6th century A.D, Ajanta and Ellora caves have a plethora of paintings and sculptures that transport you back in time. There are 34 caves which depict Buddhist, Hindu and Jain culture. The magnificent Kailasa temple here is the largest monolithic temple in the world.
Khajuraho Temples – Madhya Pradesh
The Khajuraho temples are famous for their architectural symbolism and erotic sculptures. Most of these were built in the golden period of the Chandella dynasty. Hindu temples and Jain temples co-exist and give a peek into the 11th century.
Hampi – Karnataka
The ruins of Hampi, the once ancient city of Vijayanagar, lie on the southern banks of the Tungabhadra river. Monuments here were built between AD 1336 to AD 1570, encapsulating the times of Harihara-I and Sadasiva Raya. The site has both historical and architectural significance. There are notable civil, religious and military buildings which are guaranteed to leave you awestruck.
Humayun’s Tomb – Delhi
Humayun’s Tomb was built by Hamida Banu Begam, the wife of the Mughal emperor. This beautiful red sandstone architecture has pavilions, bath chambers, and fountains typically belonging to the Mughal era. The octagonal chamber within houses the tomb of Humayun.
Panch Rathas – Mahabalipuram
Dating back to the 7th century, the Panch Rathas were carved during the reign of King Mahendravarman I and his son Narasimhavarman I. Each of the five monuments in the Pancha Rathas complex resembles a chariot and is carved out of a single stone. They are brilliant specimens of Dravidian monolithic architecture which have been preserved well for the benefit of tourists.
Sun Temple – Konark
This massive temple at Konark in Orissa derives its name from the words Kona – Corner and Arka – Sun. Intricate carvings and sculptures adorn this temple and are dedicated to the Sun God. There are images of animals, foliage, men and warriors on horses along with images of the Sun God. It took 1200 artisans 12 years to complete this architectural marvel.
Nalanda – Bihar
Nalanda was a large Buddhist monastery in the ancient kingdom of Magadha which is now situated in modern-day Bihar. It attracted scholars from all over the world. They studied Buddhist texts as well as the Vedas, logic, Sanskrit grammar, medicine and Samkhya. Nalanda flourished under the patronage of the Gupta Empire in the 5th and 6th centuries and is one of the main tourist attractions of Bihar.
Mysore Palace, Mysore
The historic palace of Mysore was the seat of the famed Wodeyar Maharaja’s of Mysore. The original palace was built out of wood in 1897 and burned down which then led to the construction of the current popular Mysore Palace. Luxurious rooms and exquisite carvings blend together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture.
These historical places are rich in culture with breath-taking architecture and stunning sculptures. They teach us about Indian heritage and help us understand and relive historic times. From the Chola Dynasty to the royal Mughal period, if you are a history and art lover, these places are a must-visit to satisfy your cultural wanderlust.