Tourists Attractions: Incredible Monuments of India
India is one the most beautiful countries on the planet and is well-known for its vibrant culture and rich heritage. Its magnificent monuments are a highlight.
India is well-known for its diverse, beautiful and rich culture that has been preserved over the centuries. These cultures and traditions are evident in India’s art and architecture.
India’s incredible beauty and government’s constant efforts to preserve its heritage sites have allowed India tourism to flourish rapidly. This has seen an increase in tourists from around the globe. You can see some of the most beautiful monuments throughout the country.
Monuments are one of the most reliable and valuable sources of historical information. These monuments were often built by rulers for political or social reasons. These monuments show us the sociocultural aspects that were prevalent at the time they were constructed.
India has many stunning historical monuments, spread across its entire length. The land is rich in culture, heritage, and architecture. It also has many palaces and temples as well as archaeological ruins, churches, and forts. The country is dotted with minarets and palaces from the north, south, east, and west.
There are also museums, mausoleums and gardens throughout the country. India’s historical monuments are a great tourist attraction and a glimpse into India’s cultural history. Below is a list of few of the incredible monuments of India that you can’t miss.
Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha # 1
Konark Sun Temple, located in the northeast corner of Puri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Odisha. It was built in the 15th-century.
The Temple is shaped like a giant rath, or chariot, of the Sun God. The chariot is pulled by seven horses, four on each side, and three on the other. Three deities are dedicated to the Sun God, located on different sides of the temple. They catch the sun’s direct rays in the morning and afternoon. The temple complex also houses an archaeological museum.
The Sun Temple is an engineering and artistic marvel that has stood stoically for two thousand years. It still displays the artistic genius of sculptures and architects of that time, despite much of it being destroyed.
The Konark Dance Festival is an annual event that transforms the temple into a stage. It attracts many foreign and Indian tourists and is dedicated to Sun God devotees.
Do visit this one of the most incredible monuments of India rich in history.
Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa # 2
The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a site of rich cultural and religious importance, has been designated UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. Located in Old Goa, Bainguinim, about 10 kilometers from Panjim, Basilica of Bom Jesus Church is a unique Indian church that is well-known for its exceptional baroque architecture.
This church was built in 1594 and dedicated in 1605. It is the origin of Christianity in India. It is . It is the oldest church in Goa and houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. He was a close friend of St. Ignatius Loyola, who founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).
The remains remain in good condition after being removed once a decade, despite having been there for 400 years.
This church, which literally translates to ‘Holy Jesus’ in Old Goa, is the only one that has not been plastered outside. The triangular roof of the church’s façade is delicately carved by the initials “IHS”, which are abbreviations for Jesuit emblem, meaning “Jesus, Savior of Men”.
The Basilica’s floor is made from marble mosaic and precious stones. It has a solemn look inside. A screen runs from the floor to ceiling, and features the image of St. Ignatius Loyola defending an infant Jesus.
The most important symbol of Christianity is the Holy Trinity image. The Basilica de Bom Jesus, which is more than 408 years old, is open to the public every single day.
The Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh # 3
Gwalior Fort is the heritage of Madhya Pradesh. It is a magnificent defensive structure that houses beautiful temples and palaces. The fort is a significant figure in Central India’s history and has stood strong through many rulers from Madhya Pradesh.
It tells the stories of the Pal Dynasty (the Pratihara Dynasty), the Tomar Dynasty (the Suri Dynasty), the Suri Dynasty(the Mughal Dynasty), the Rana Jat Dynasty (the Maratha Dynasty) and the Pal Dynasty.
The Gwalior Fort, the great being of has suffered the wounds inflicted during the suppression of the Sepoy Mutiny (The Rebellion of 1857). This architecture is known for its Gurjari Mahal, Man Mandir and other attractions.
Rani ki Vav, Gujarat # 4
Rani Ki Vav, also known as Queen’s Stepwell, is a unique water storage system that can be found in Patan (a small town in Gujarat), on the banks River Saraswati.
In the 1960s, the well was discovered in a protected state. It was covered with slits for sanctuaries.
Rani ki Vav is believed to be the largest stepwell in Gujarat and epitomizes Maru-Gujarat’s architectural style.
Rani Ki Vav, in addition to being a place for locals to socialize and seek refuge from the heat, was also an important center. The well’s water was believed to have medicinal properties that helped cure fever and viral diseases.
The Reserve Bank of India has issued a Rs. 100 currency note that features the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rani ka Vav, a 900-year-old structure.
Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh # 5
The Taj Mahal, a huge mausoleum made of white marble and built in Agra in 1631-1648 on the orders of Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor, in memory of his favorite wife.
This 17th century, intricately carved mausoleum is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and one of the most admired monuments in the world’s cultural heritage.
It is located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra. You can still walk the garden of this Indian national monument and marvel at the beautiful motifs on its walls, even though you are not allowed to enter the tombs.
The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands for “The Crown of Palaces” in Persian language. It is rectangular in shape and can be accessed through a huge gateway with an arch and alcoves to either side.
The monument is enhanced by water channels and fountains at the entrance. It is almost poetic to see the Yamuna’s reflection in all its glory!
Nalanda, Bihar # 6
One of the most prestigious and oldest residential universities in the world is located here. Nalanda, the most famous Mahavihara, was a prominent Buddhist seat of academic excellence, and a modest pilgrim center.
All wrapped in a touch of spirituality, Nalanda is still a richly enriching place in the present. It is a vibrant place of spirituality and rich history, culture, architecture, tourism, and more.
It was also home to an architectural masterpiece. The entire complex is beautiful, even though it is in ruin. Tourists flock to see it every day. It is home to “viharas”, or monasteries, to the east, and “chaiyas”, or temples to its west.
The complex also houses a charming museum that contains a variety of original Buddhist stupas and bronzes from Hindu and Buddhist, as well as coins, terracotta containers, burnt rice samples, and other interesting items.
This one of the most incredible monuments of India is considered a cradle for all religions. It is a major center for Jainism and Hinduism. It is a popular tourist destination due to its rich heritage and historical significance.
Ajanta Ellora Caves, Maharashtra # 7
The Ajanta Ellora Caves are regarded as the jewels of Indian history and the remarkable artistry that existed during that era. These 64 caves are located close to the city of Aurangabad.
Ajanta & Ellora Caves are two of India’s most popular tourist spots. These caves date back to the 2nd century BC and reflect the early life of man in India. These caves are made from rock and contain rich wall paintings and sculptures.
Ajanta Caves are often referred to as Buddhist caves, while Ellora Caves may be called Hindu, Jain or Buddhist caves. Ajanta & Ellora caves are some of the best-preserved monuments found in India.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are a top-rated attraction on many traveler’s wish lists.
Hawa Mahal Jaipur, Rajasthan # 8
Jaipur’s most prominent landmark is the Hawa Mahal. It is five stories high. This pyramidal structure stands 15m high and overlooks the bustling streets of the city and looks like a honeycomb.
The many windows and jharokhas make it windy inside. The palace’s amazing ventilation is the reason it was called the Hawa Mahal. Literally, this means the “Palace of the Winds”.
Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh built the monument to make it easier for women to view the outside world. The magnificent views from the palace’s top include Sireh Deori Bazaar, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar.
The five-storey Hawa Mahal building is the highest building built without a foundation. It is a curve-shaped building that leans at an angle of 87 degrees. The pyramidal shape has also helped it remain erect for centuries.
The Hawa Mahal is dedicated Lord Krishna. The building’s shape is believed to be a representation of the crown of Krishna.
The Hawa Mahal is more than a palace. It is also an architectural and cultural marvel. You can see the Rajput style in the domes and fluted pillars. The stone inlay filigree work, and the arches, are excellent representations of the Mughal style.
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu # 9
Mamallapuram, or Mahabalipuram, is an iconic tourist spot on the Coromandel Coast, along the Bay of Bengal in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its rock-cut caves and intricately carved temples.
Mahabalipuram, once the home of Mahabali the demon king, was later renamed Mamallapuram.
This charming town is known for its serenity and beautiful setting, which includes many white sandy beaches that are dotted with casuarinas trees.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site Group of Monuments includes the Shore Temple, Five Rathas and the Crocodile Bank. This bank is home to some of the most beautiful species of crocodiles. There are also beach resorts in Kovalam and Sadras.
Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh # 10
Khajuraho Temples, temples dedicated to Hindu deities, are located in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. These temples were constructed between 900 and 1130 CE. They are UNESCO’s World Heritage Site.
One of India’s most significant historical monuments, these monuments are distinguished by their architectural brilliance. The site is visited by many tourists from all parts of the globe. The complex contains 85 temples. They are divided into three categories.
The eastern group is dedicated to the Jain patriarchs, while the western group is dedicated Shiva. Three Jain Tirthankar temples are also available.
Gol Gumbaz, Karnataka # 11
A fine example of Deccan architecture in Karnataka, the Gol Gumbaz, Mohammed Adil Shah’s mausoleum, was completed in 1656. The dome is the second-largest in the world. It’s reached by four minarets.
Construction of Gol Gumbaz began in 1626 AD. It took approximately 30 years to complete the structure. It is currently maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
The crypt of Mohammed Adil Shah who was the Sultan of Bijapur, is known as Gol Gumbaz. He was the seventh ruler in Adil Shah Dynasty.
The name of the monument is derived from “Gola Gummata”, or “Gol Gombadh”, meaning “circular dome”.
The monument’s grand structure is made up of a cube on each end, and topped by an external dome. The dome houses a “whispering gallery”. Because even the faintest sound can be heard from the other side of the dome, these are called “whispering galleries”.
FAQs About Monuments in India
Which is the oldest monument in India?
The Ajanta Caves are approximately 30 stone-cut Buddhist cave monuments dated from the 2nd century BC to around 480 BC in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra State of India.
How many monuments does India have?
There are 116 Indian monuments that can be visited, across 19 states. Out of them, 17 monuments of India are located in Uttar Pradesh. Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World is located in Agra, in this state.
