Are you looking forward to having some historical adventure that shows you the change of time? Find the top 35 historical places to visit in India that can captivate everyone.
India is best known for its rich history and ancient architecture that mesmerizes not only Indians but also people around the world. Starting from ancient temples to mosques and tombs, the religious diversity and cultural differences in different eras have given birth to some of the most attractive historical places in India that can take tourists back in time. For those who are looking for such opulent places to visit, here are the top 35 historical places in India to pay a visit.
- Taj Mahal – Agra
The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world which is situated in Agra, Delhi. This historical monument will be always at the top of the list which is considered to be the ultimate example of love. The artistic marble structure with creative architecture makes this monument beautiful, captivating, and mesmerizing for all. Back in the 1600s, Shah Jahan was the emperor and decided to create with his late wife Mumtaz Mahal with the help of the finest craftsmanship and architecture. It was established in 1648 but it is timeless in its own aura. It took around 22 years to create this magnificent structure without any kind of modern equipment. It is best if you can witness its beauty at the dawn.
- Agra Fort – Uttar Pradesh
Forts and castles are the greatest pieces of history that show creative architecture in classic times when they depended on ingenuity more than equipment. The rich history of the Mughal Era is quite vivid in India and the Agra Fort is one of the greatest examples of that. This fort was built with red sandstone and was established in 1565 by Akbar. This place also consists of two of the biggest tourist attractions, the Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gate. Agra is one of the greatest places to place historical monuments. Also make sure to visit Moti Masjid, Mina Masjid, Jahangir Palace, Nagina Masjid, Zenana Mina Bazaar, and others.
- Red Fort – Delhi
When it comes to forts, Red Fort is one of the most iconic forts in India which was a decade-long construction, from 1638 to 1648. The fort was built under the order of Shah Jahan when he decided to move the nation’s capital from Agra to Delhi. The Red Fort is also known as Qila-e-Mubarak which has a unique octagonal structure. Being one of the most significant monuments in Indian History, the president of the nation delivers the speech from here on Republic Day, every year. One of the most interesting facts is that the fort was built with limestone but the British oppressors painted it red.
- Qutub Minar – Delhi
Qutub Minar is one of the greatest examples of Indo-Muslim architecture that includes sandstone in a storied structure. This intricate long tower-like structure is comprised of carvings and different verses from Arabic and Nagari. It is one of the most famous historical monuments that received it named after Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of North India. There is also a mosque under the minar known as Quwwat-ul-Islam Masjid. One of the most interesting facts is that the iron pillar at the seminar did not get any rust even after 2000 years.
- Humayun’s Tomb – Delhi
If you are looking for pleasing symmetrical architecture that offers a Persian essence, Humayun’s Tomb is the place where you need to go. It is a peaceful sanctuary that was built back in the 15th century by Humayun for his wife Hamida Banu Begum. This place is comprised of beautiful domes, elaborate corridors, arched alcoves, and many other elements. This tomb was built with the inspiration of the Taj Mahal and consists of many tombs.
- Fatehpuri Sikri – Uttar Pradesh
Fatehpur Sikri is one of the royal historical places which was once the capital of the nation during Akbar’s period. Built in the Mughal era, this royal city was equipped with everything that the emperor would seek. Starting from quarters for the king, the army, and servants to public buildings and mosques; it had everything. The carved and decorated pillars added an extra touch of creativity that makes this place even more attractive to all. The monument was built somewhere around 1571-1573 AD.
- Hawa Mahal – Jaipur
Hawa Mahal in Jaipur is one of the most captivating historical monuments in India that attracts a lot of tourists every year. Known as the ‘Palace of Winds’, this architecture is built on a honeycomb structure of a beehive that consists of a total of 953 intricate windows. The palace is also built in the shape of a crown with a tribute to the king of that time, Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. It is one of the tallest buildings in the world that was built without any foundation.
- Khajuraho Temples – Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho is one of the most artistic historical examples that is built in the epitome of creativity and exploration. The temples offer numerous sculptures built upon different philosophies that depict the emotions of love, grace, beauty, delicacy, lust, and creativity. There is also a moderate amount of eroticism and sensuality involved in the creative works which shows the open-minded artistic exploration in the ancient times. With the carvings of deities, apsaras, animals, and many others; the temples offer a perfect cultural blend of Hinduism and Jainism.
- Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh
The Relics of Buddha can be found all around the world however, nothing can beat the tranquillity of Sanchi Stupa which is considered to be the house of relics of Buddha. It was built by lord Ashoka at the time of the 3rd century B.C. Ashoka was one of the most fearsome of powerful kings back then who found his peace in Buddhism. He established the Dome of the Stupa which stands for the wheel of law. It is a symbol of Buddha’s freedom the circle of life and death, also termed as ‘Moksha’.
- Konark Temple – Odisha
King Narasimhadeva I was the great ruler of the Ganga dynasty who built is amazing temple with the help of 1200 skilled artisans. The stone carved sculptures look like made of clay as they are too perfect to be of stone. The temple is situated beside the Bay of Bengal and offers a magnificent view. With exquisite detailing and establishment of universal relations, the temple embraces natural energy that belongs to nature, among humans, animals, and everyone. At the entrance of the temple, tourists can find sculptures of lions, elephants, and humans. There are 12 wheels at the bottom of the foundation that denote accurate time with the right position of the sundials.
- Mahabodhi Temple – Bodh Gaya
Mahabodhi temples are Buddhist foundations that can be found in one of the four holy grounds of Buddhism. It is said the Buddha achieved his enlightenment from this place when he used to meditate under the fig tree, which is also known as the Bodhi Tree; or the tree of wisdom. The temple was built long ago, in the 3rd century BC when King Ashoka used to rule. The temple also consists of a massive statue of Buddha with his right hand touching the ground.
- Rani ki Vav, Gujarat
Rani ki Vav is actually the name of a stepwell which was specially designed back in the 11th century AD. This massive structure goes up to 24 meters deep and offers one of the most unique historical places in India. This is a memorial created by Queen Udayamati for her late husband and King Bhimdev of the Solanki dynasty. It is said that the lowest level of the stepwell used to be an escape route to the nearby villages. The central idea of this foundation is based on the “Dasavatars” of Lord Vishnu according to Hinduism. One can also check the seven galleries.
- Victoria Memorial – Kolkata
The beauty of the Victoria Memorial cannot be denied as this monument is globally famous now. It was built by the Viceroy of that era Lord Curzon, a peal example of British architecture and imperialism. The actual design of the building was made by Sir William Emerson and it still attracts people in the modern days. The foundation also has a museum inside which is built with paintings, sculptures, British memorabilia, artifacts, weapons, and many others. Going inside the building can also take you back in time with detailed representations.
- Jallianwala Bagh – Punjab
History might not repeat itself but it still remembers. Remembering the countless souls that gave their lives, the infamous Jallianwala Bagh is known for the massacre where numerous Indians died when the British oppressors started shooting at will. Situated near Amritsar in Punjab, the place covers a total of 6.5 acres of area which turned red with blood and bullet marks when General Dyer ordered for the shootout on Baisakhi. It took only a few moments to kill thousands of innocent unarmed Indians. Later on in 1961, a memorial was established by then-president, Dr. Rajendra Prasad as a tribute to the fallen.
- Gwalior Fort – Madhya Pradesh
The Gwalior Fort is one of the most beautiful forts in India that has been around for a long time yet did not lose its shine. The fort was constructed at the time of Mughal Emporer Babur who considered this fort to be one of the favorites. Built in the 6th century, the fort also offers the second oldest reference to the number zero.
- Golden Temple – Punjab
There are multiple Gurudwaras all around India and also in many places around the world. But nothing can diminish the shine of the Golden Temple. Sri Harmandir Sahib is one of the most spiritual places in India. Maharaja Ranjit Singh rebuilt this temple with pure gold and marble in 1830. It is located at the heart of Amritsar where more than ten thousand devotees visit every day. It is one of the top 5 historical monuments in India that people visit from foreign countries. The langar here feeds thousands of pilgrims on a daily basis.
- India Gate – Delhi
India Gate is one of the most iconic monuments of India which is more than 42 meters in height. It is often compared with the famous Arch de Triomphe in Paris or the Arch of Constantine in Rome due to its typical arched structure. However, this monument was built for a greater cause. Designed by Edwin Lutyens, the gate pays tribute to 82,000 soldiers of both Indian and British descent who participated in World War One and died. More than 13,300 soldiers were martyred in the 3rd Anglo-Afghan War and their names are carved on the gate. The Amar Jawan Jyoti keeps burning throughout the year.
- Mehrangarh Fort – Jodhpur
This is one of the biggest forts in India that was built by Rao Jodha back in 1459. Nestled among the hills, this fort has a total of seven entrances and each of the entrances was created for a different reason. Within the complex of the fort, there is also a glass palace as well as a rose palace. Numerous Bollywood and Hollywood movies have been shot here. It is considered to be one of the top 5 forts in India.
- Amer Fort – Jaipur
Amer Fort is located around 12 km from the pink city of Jaipur in Rajasthan. The fort was built by the king, Maharaja Man Singh back in 1592. The fort is believed to be the living place for the king. This residency of a kind is also announced as a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is mainly made of pink and yellow sandstone which makes it look extraordinarily beautiful. More than 5 thousand people visit the fort on a daily basis and tourists are here all over the year.
- Kumbhalgarh Fort – Rajasthan
Rajasthan is famous for its forts and another famous fort would be the Kumbhalgarh Fort. This majestic fort is also a wildlife sanctuary which was built by King Kumbha. Belonging to the district of Rajasamand, the fort is situated 82 km from Udaipur which makes it a great trip from the city. The perimeter of the fort is quite big and the wall outside the fort is the second largest wall in the whole world after the Great Wall of China.
- Lakshmi Vilas Palace – Vadodara
The Lakshmi Vilas Palace is one of the most luxurious and prestigious foundations in India which was built by the Gaekwad family in Baroda. They were also the rulers of the place. The initial part of the foundation was created by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad back in 1890. The fort offers an attractive Indo-Saracenic architecture which is quite compelling. It was also a place of entertainment for the British oppressors. You would be surprised to know that it is four times in size of Buckingham Palace.
- Gateway of India – Mumbai
Well, this Gateway is literally a point of entrance and exit in the country from back in the British period. Evidently, it has a lot of historical significance which is perhaps not understandable in the modern picture. This historical gateway was built in 1924. It was inaugurated by the Earl of Reading, The Viceroy. The monument has received renovation with concrete and yellow basalt to keep its original essence intact which was once one of the vital gateways of India in the 20th century.
- Ajanta and Ellora Caves – Aurangabad
If you are looking for true craftsmanship in ancient times, then Ajanta and Ellora caves are must-seen for you. Each sculpture in the whole cave is carved by expert artisans with only hand some basic tools and their exceptional artistic aura. It is one of the most majestic wonders of India which was discovered by British officer John Smith when he was setting camp to chase a tiger in 1819. There are a total of 29 caves full of highly artistic structures and architecture that focus on Buddha and the tale of Jataka. Among the 37 caves, there are 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu, and 5 Jain caves. It offers a fine amalgamation of religion, culture, art, and philosophies.
- Charminar – Hyderabad
Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah is the creator behind this foundation which was established back in 1519 to honor Allah. Other than religion, there is a historic significance of Charminar as it was established to denote that the plague in the city has finally ended. It has four strong pillars with 4 stories and one clock on each arch. A lot of people also claim that there is a secret tunnel from the minar that takes directly to the Golconda Fort.
- Mysore Palace – Karnataka
The Mysore palace is the greatest example of royal assets by the kings in South India. The palace has now turned into a museum for the Wodeyar dynasty and their belongings from paintings, clothing, and artifacts. The palace offers a mixed essence of Mughal, Rajput, and Hindu aspects that create a sense of unity in diversity. This palace used to host royal weddings with millions of people. There’s a golden palanquin in the palace which was previously used by the kinds and now, Goddess Durga sits there.
- Hampi – Karnataka
Hampi is one of the most beautiful places in India that has historical, mythological, and religious significance. While it offers a spectacular look with rocky and hilly landscape, chariot structures, elephant stables, and ornate halls; it is also considered one of the holy places. According to Ramayana, Ram and his brother came here to search for his wife Sita. It is a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Vijayanagara Coin Mint was situated.
- Chola Temples – Tamil Nadu
Visiting the three great Chola Temples is on the wish list for many and you can also do the same. The three temples are situated at Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore, Brihadeeshwara Temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and Airavateshwara Temple in Darasuram. All of these temples were built back in the 11th and 12th century which makes them a significant part of history. Raja Raja Cholan is responsible for the creation of these temples.
- Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Mahabalipuram is one of the major Indian attractions that is built in a Dravidian style and structure. It showcases some extraordinary artwork through the intriguing stone carving of Pallava art. Experts say that it took more than 200 years to completely build this monument. There are a total of 11 temples that can be found in the region which also offers ample Buddhist elements for travelers.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus – Mumbai
Yes, it is not a temple but even railway stations can be a part of the history and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai is one of them. It would be surprising to know that it is a UNESCO World Heritage site which was constructed back in 1887. The building has a Victorian-Gothic style of artsy architecture which makes it attractive with a foreign-like essence. It is also the headquarters of Central Railways. The terminus was specially built to celebrate the 50th birthday of Queen Victoria.
- Gol Gumbaz – Karnataka
The 7thruler of the country, Adil Shah helped to establish this monument that took almost 30 years to build. The name Gol Gumbaz is defined as a “circular dome” which is currently maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. It was built in Kerala back in 1656 with Dark Grey Basalt. The dome was designed by Yaqut of Dabul which offered a mixed essence of Deccan Indo-Islamic architecture style.
- Cellular Jail – Port Blair
You might want to go to jail but visiting the Cellular Jail in Andaman is one of the most fascinating experiences. Stranded as a secular island, it is one of the toughest jails in the world. The British oppressors used this jail to punish the miscreants. Cellular jail stands for Kala Pani which means exiled till death. The place that was once a colonial prison of inhumane torture has now become a highly attractive historical place for everyone. So, if you plan to go to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, make sure to pay a visit to the jail.
- Elephanta Caves – Maharashtra
It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in India that offers magnificent cave art and architectural structures that belong to medieval times. The caves are quite ancient as they date back to the 5th to 7th century. There are multiple caves and they are divided into two major groups. The first group is made with five Hindu Temples and the second group is formed with two Buddhist caves.
- Jantar Mantar – Jaipur
Scientific minds and researchers have been in India for a long-time back and Jantar Mantar is the biggest example of that. It is also the largest astronomical observatory in the world, equipped with ancient tools and methods. It was built by Raja Sawai Madho Singh as the king was an ardent fan of science. He created the place back in the 18th century and the massive installations still work the same with efficiency. It has the largest sundial.
- Golkonda Fort – Hyderabad
Golkonda is one of the most iconic forts in Hyderabad which was creatively built to stop foreign army invasion. The fort is huge and comes with a dungeon-like structure. Even the Kohinoor diamond was well hidden in the fort but the British oppressors were simply too greedy. It is a grandiose architecture that offers a fine blend of history and mystery. It was built quite scientifically for communication as you can hear someone from the top of the fort even if they are talking at the bottom of it.
- Bara Imambara – Lucknow
Lucknow is known as the city of Nawabs and the birthplace of the very famous galouti kebab. Bara Imambara comes with standing-out architecture that makes it one of the top on the list. This is the largest structure from ancient times which is still standing strong without any beam of supporting material. This monument was created by Asif Imambara to offer Muslims a special and secure place to pray to Allah. Inside the premises, the complex maze-like structure will definitely remind you of ‘Bhool Bhulaiya’. There are a total of 1024 ways to get inside the maze but only 2 ways to get out.
Some of the other worthy mentions are Meenakshi Amman Temple, Halebidu, Chittorgarh Fort, Nalanda University, Churches and Convents in Goa and the list goes on. India has a handful of attractive places to offer tourists whether they a piece of history or adventure.
