10 Famous Historical Monuments in India

A symbol of love and commitment, the Taj Mahal stands as one of the seven wonders of the world. Dedicated by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is one of the best ancient Mughal architectures in India. You will agree, the exquisite ivory-white marble mausoleum is the epitome of architectural brilliance and magnificence. There’s a reason why it attracts more than 7-8 million visitors from across the globe every year. If you have also added this UNESCO World Heritage Site to your travel bucket list, wait no further, pack your bags and book a flight to Agra right away!

A perfect confluence of ancient Indian architecture, science and innovation, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur will enthral your senses. With a collection of over 19 astronomical instruments, it is one of the world’s largest observatories. In case you are wondering, these devices were used to predict the time, eclipse, location of stars and the sun. Built in the 18th century, under the rule of Maharaja Jai Singh II, this monument often finds its place in every Jaipur travel guide. If you wish to explore this iconic site, take a flight to Jaipur and hire a cab to reach here.

There’s no way we would have missed talking about the ancient Indian architecture buildings at Hampi. When you visit Hampi, you will step back in the former Vijayanagara kingdom! There are several monuments, palaces and temples, glorifying the various types of architecture in India. The meticulously carved and intricate stone carvings are a sight to behold. But, that’s not it! Hampi is renowned for the musical stone pillars of Vittala Temple as well. Yes, stones that make sounds like instruments. Now, isn’t it astounding! Make sure to explore the ruins at Hampi at least once in your life. To reach there, take a flight to Vidyanagar or Belgaum and head to Hampi via roadways.

If you have an innate fascination for discovering the art and architecture of India, you cannot miss out on the Khajuraho group of monuments. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khajuraho is home to many Hindu and Jain temples, tracing back to the Chandela dynasty. The temples are beautifully adorned with refined sculptures and fine sandstone carvings. But, what draws tourists are the erotic sculptures engraved on the temple walls. To witness the religious, artistic and architectural magnificence of Khajuraho temples, all you have to do is plan your itinerary, pack your bags and book a flight to Khajuraho.

Constructed in the shape of a giant chariot pulled by a set of seven horses, Konark Sun Temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. The twelve pairs of stone wheels, supporting the majestic structure, are adorned with detailed artwork of various animal figures. Honestly, words are never enough to explain the splendour of this huge temple. Though now in ruins, the Konark Sun Temple stands as a glorious reminder of the city’s cultural and architectural heritage. To visit here, you will have to book a flight to Bhubaneswar. From there, you can approach Konark via roadways.

If we say these caves glorify the splendid work of ancient Indian artisans most extravagantly, we won’t be exaggerating! The finest examples of rock-cut caves, Ajanta-Ellora Caves, are among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are 34 caves at Ellora, consisting of the remains of the several Buddhist, Hindu and Jain temples. On the other hand, Ajanta has a total of 30 caves, all Buddhist. Look close at the walls of these caves and you will see engravings of murals, fine paintings and exotic sculptures. Dating back to the period between the 2nd and 11th centuries, these caves are still considered as one of the most outstanding works of Buddist art in India. If you have made up your mind to witness the brilliance of the caves, you can take a flight to Aurangabad to reach these beautiful sites.

Next on our list is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rani Ka Vav, an elaborately detailed stepwell. Unlike most Indian architecture buildings, a queen built this monument as a memorial for her husband. Now, let’s talk about the impeccable architecture of this site. The stepwell is constructed as an inverted temple with over 212 pillars and intricate sculptures on the sidewalls. The finest example of stepwell architecture, Rani Ka Vav, should definitely be on your travel bucket list. Remember, you can take a flight to Ahmedabad, from where Patan is nearly 125 km away.

A masterpiece of Indo-Islamic art, Qutub Minar has been gracing the national capital’s land since the 13th century. With a height of 240-foot, it is the world’s tallest brick minaret, built by the founder of Delhi Sultanate, Qutub al-Din Aibak. The walls of the minaret are embellished with iron carvings and verses from the Quran. Visit this tower and you will agree, it is a testament to the skilful stonework of artisans. Don’t forget to see the ancient mosques situated within the Qutub complex as well. So, what are you waiting for? Book a flight to Delhi and take a cab to reach here.

If you love learning about famous buildings in India and their architects, take a flight to Kolkata and visit the Victoria Memorial. An opulent memorial made of marble, this monument cum museum reflects the city’s colonial and architectural heritage. Lord Curzon commissioned it in 1906 to honour Queen Victoria, the then Empress of British India. One of the most celebrated British architects, William Emerson, constructed this marvel, blending Mughal and British styles. You must visit the museum, which is home to over 28,000 artefacts, providing a glimpse of the city’s cultural heritage. And we cannot forget to mention the epic light and sound show! This 45 mins show, titled ‘Pride and Glory - the Story of Calcutta’, is worth all your time.

The world’s second-largest monastery, Tawang Monastery, is one among the top ancient Indian architecture buildings, oozing spirituality, royalty and architectural heritage. Constructed in 1680 as per the orders of the 5th Dalai Lama, this monastery is settled at a height of about 10,000 feet. As soon as you enter, you will feel the grandeur of a mini kingdom, straight from your favourite period drama. With ten to twenty feet high doors, striking and colourful details and the 18-foot tall image of Buddha, Tawang Monastery is bound to mesmerise you. So, next time you plan to visit a historic building, book a flight to Itanagar or Lilbari to explore the Tawang Monastery.