October 27th, 2017 by Nishtha Walia

The roots of Indian history lie in its historic forts, the ancient temples, and the alluring Mughal architecture. Unravelling these marvels will offer you a peek into the rich Indian history.

Top 36 Historical Places To Visit In India

  1. Taj Mahal, Agra
  2. Qutub Minar, Delhi
  3. Amer Fort, Rajasthan
  4. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
  5. Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka
  6. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
  7. Konark Temple, Odisha
  8. Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh
  9. Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh
  10. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
  11. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
  12. Red Fort, Delhi
  13. Mysore Palace, Mysore
  14. Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar
  15. Fatehpur Sikri, Agra
  16. Gateway of India, Mumbai
  17. Rani ki Vav, Gujarat
  18. Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur
  19. Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh
  20. Golconda Fort, Hyderabad
  21. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya
  22. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi
  23. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
  24. India Gate, Delhi
  25. Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
  26. Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara
  27. Charminar, Hyderabad
  28. Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan
  29. Bhimbetka, Bhopal
  30. Cellular Jail, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
  31. Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu
  32. Elephanta Caves, Mumbai
  33. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner
  34. Jaipur City Palace, Rajasthan
  35. Chand Baori, Abhaneri
  36. Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

Taj Mahal, Agra - one of the most famous historical places in India

This epitome of Mughal architecture, built entirely with white marble is one of the most well-known identifiers of India. Its grandeur and beauty will have you spellbound.

Shah Jahan built this paragon for his wife Mumtaz Mahal to enunciate his love for her.

Situated in one of the “Golden Triangle” cities, you also get an opportunity to explore the streets of Agra.

Entry fee: Indian – INR 40, Foreigner- INR 1000

Timings: 6:30 am to 9:30 pm (closed on Fridays)

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2. Qutub Minar, Delhi

Qutub Minar, Delhi - one of the most famous historical places in India

One of the tallest creations in the Indian history is the Qutub Minar. With its red sandstone and aesthetic Iranian architecture, the minaret is the most famous tourist attraction in India.

This UNESCO World Heritage site towers at a  height of 240 feet making it one of the tallest ancient towers across the globe. Assimilate history of the minaret by reading the inscriptions engraved in Parso-Arabic and Nagari characters.

Built by Qutub Ud-Din-Aibak in the nineteenth century this tower is a must visit place in Delhi.

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 10 and Foreigners- INR 250

Timings: 7 am to 5 pm

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3. Amer Fort, Rajasthan

Amer Fort, Rajasthan - one of the most famous historical monuments in India

The splendid Amer Fort sits atop a hill called Cheel ka Teela, safeguarded by the Maota Lake. The essence of the Amer fort lies in its captivating architecture and the lustrous red sandstone and marble.

The gigantic fort has some mystical elements enveloped in it, like the Diwan-i-Khaas, the Diwan-i-aam, and the beguiling Sheesh Mahal. Enjoy an elephant ride towards the Suraj Pol (sun gate)

A hidden tunnel in the fort takes you on a prolonged path bridging the paerfedlace to the Jaigarh Fort.

Entry fee: Indians- INR 25 and Foreigners- INR 200

Timings: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

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4.Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra - one of the most famous historical monuments in India

The enthralling caves of Ajanta and Ellora in Maharashtra are the epitome of beauty. With their authentic rock-cut sculptures and ancient Indian art, the caves have become a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The artifacts in the cave portray the past lives and rebirths of Buddha in spellbinding sculptures and murals. Discovered in 1819, the caves are a popular tourist hot spots and a must visit.

Entry fee: Indians- INR 30 and Foreigners- INR 500

Timings: 8 am to 5 pm

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5. Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka

Virupaksha Temple, Karnataka - one of the most famous historical monuments in India

Situated in Karnataka, the exquisite city of Hampi houses some of the most breath-taking temples.

The Virupaksha Temple situated in Hampi is the most astonishing marvel ever discovered.The sculptures of Lord Shiva carved on stones is the predominant feature of this spectacular temple. Built under the ruler Deva Raya II of the great Vijayanagara Empire is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Hampi.

Enjoy the annual festivals of Virupaksha, Pampa, and chariot in Hampi to get a deeper look into the ever so opulent temple of Virupaksha.

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 10 and Foreigners- INR 250

Timings: 6 am to 6 pm

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6. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu - one of the most famous historical monuments in India

The antique carved rocks blended with the chariots and cave sanctuaries make Mahabalipuram, one of the key historic sites of Tamil Nadu.

Built in the 7th century by the dynasty of Pallavas, the Shore Temple is one of the most popular monuments of Mahabalipuram. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple exhibits a strong Dravidian influence in its architecture infused with some Buddhist elements.

Admire the great sculptures in Mahabalipuram on your visit.

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 10 and Foreigners- INR 250

Timings: 6 am to 6 pm

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7. Konark Temple, Odisha

Konark Temple, Odisha - one of the most famous historical buildings in India

Devoted to the Sun God ‘Surya’, the prepossessing Konark Temple is the most spellbinding historic site in Odisha. The Kalinga architecture reflecting in its gigantic chariot, pillars and walls give the temple an Odiya touch.

Also classified as ‘Black Pagoda’ by some European sailors, this UNESCO World Heritage site has also featured in the list of 7 Wonders of India.  The magnificent Khandolite rocks make the beauty of this temple even more alluring to the human eyes.

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 30 and Foreigners- INR 250

Timings: 6 am to 8 pm

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8. Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh

Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh - one of the most famous historical buildings in India

The Sanchi stupa stands as an unparalleled example of the majestic aura that is encompassed within the Buddhist style of architecture. Ancient relics of Lord Buddha are rooted within the dome- shaped structure of the stupa, which was how the structure looked until the dawn of the 1st century.

The stupa borrows its esteem from its commissioner, Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty, whose stature can be well indicated in the terms of the stupa’s altitude. The 54 ft. high stupa tells the tales of Lord Buddha’s life through its mesmerizing carvings, whose intricacy personifies the architecture.

Marked as a UNESCO world heritage site the stupa is visited regularly by uncountable visitors. So what are you waiting for!

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 20 and Foreigners- INR 250

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset

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9. Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh

Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh -one of the most famous historical buildings in India

Located in the small town of Khajuraho, the Khajuraho Temples have found a place within UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites and are visited annually by many visitors.

This group of Hindu and Jain temples built by the Chandelas reflects the acceptance and respect for diverse religions during those times. All temples, barring one, are east-facing and glimmer at the break of dawn by the sunrise.

The temples are famous for intricately carved statues and sculptures, some of which are remnants of the ancient culture of Kama Sutra.

Visit these temples to delve deeper into the traditional Hindu values of Dharma, Kama, Artha, and Moksha, that these temples are symbolic of.

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 30 and Foreigners- INR 500

Timings: 6 am to 10 pm

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10. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata - one of the most famous historical monuments in India

Located right in the heart of Kolkata, this memorial has been named after Queen Victoria. The elegant white marble structure is girdled by lush green gardens which together cover 64 acres of land.

Small sculptures and statues, which are spread throughout the gardens, add further charm to the memorial premises.

The memorial is illuminated by lights in the evening and runs high in terms of seraphic beauty.

Don’t miss out on the evening show called ‘Son et Lumiere’ on your visit.

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 20 and Foreigners- INR 200

Timings: 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)

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11. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur - one of the most famous historical monuments in India
The Palace of Wind, Hawa Mahal

Designed by Lal Chand Ustad, Hawa Mahal is built in red and pink sandstone. Interestingly, Hawa Mahal is more of a gallery and was created so that the royal ladies could look outside as they were constantly under ‘purdah’.

Located in the heart of Jaipur, Hawa Mahal can be reached via bus, auto-rickshaw, taxi or cars from the capital city. The months of September to February are the best time to visit Hawa Mahal.

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 10 and Foreigners- INR 50

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12. Red Fort, Delhi

Red Fort, Delhi - one of the most famous historical monuments in India

Built at the zenith of Mughal Empire by Shah Jahan, Lal Quila was completed in a period of nine years. The fort today stands as a testimony to the magnificent glory and power of Mughal Sultanate, adorned in walls of red sandstone. One of the most politically significant monument, the Red Fort witnesses the independence day celebrations every year.

A fine blend of Persian and indigenous architectural styles, the Red Fort hosts important key rooms such, Diwan-i-aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Mumtaz Mahal, Rang Mahal among many others. Spending a pleasant autumn day around the lawns of this area would be the perfect way to walk through the history of Mughal India.

Timings: 9:30 am- 4:30 pm daily (Closed on Mondays)

Entry fee: Indians- INR 10 and Foreigners- INR 250

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13. Mysore Palace, Mysore

Mysore Palace, Mysore -one of the most famous historical monuments in India

Built by British architect Lord Henry Irwin in 1912, Mysore Palace is located in the heart of the city. An architectural wonder built in Indo Saracenic style, this palace features intricate interiors. Interestingly,  Golden palanquin was used by the Maharaja which was then carried by elephants during the annual Dasara festivities. Goddess Durga’s idol is now placed inside the palanquin.

The months between October to March are the most pleasant and offer a comfortable stay here. Avoid summers as they are very sultry hot.

Entry fee: Indians- INR 40 and Foreigners- INR 200

Timings: 10 am – 5.30 pm (Closed on Sundays and govt holidays)

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14. Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar

 Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar - one of the most famous historical places in India

Located in the heart of Amritsar, a small walk from the Golden Temple leads to the public garden of Jallianwala Bagh. Originally used for community meetings and religious discourses, the area became a bloodbath for peaceful protestors on the Vaisakhi day of April 1919.

The best time to visit Amritsar is between November and March when the weather is comparatively pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and visiting the Jallianwala Bagh.

Visitors can attend the light and sound show to experience the tragedy as it unfolded on April 13, 1919, when the then British Officer, General Dyer ordered his troops to fire machine guns on an unarmed peaceful crowd.

Entry fee: No charges

Timings: Open all days 06:30 am to 07:30 pm

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15. Fatehpur Sikri, Agra

Fatehpur Sikri, Agra - one of the most famous historical places in India

Located at a distance of 40 km to the west of Agra, the erstwhile capital of Jalaluddin Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri stands as a vivid memory of the Mughal era. The highest gateway in the world, Buland Darwaza marks one of the finest surviving glories of the Mughal Sultanate as the entrance to the magnificent palace.

The fortified ancient city was also home to the famous Sufi saint, Salim Chisti, who prophesied the birth of a male heir to the kingdom. Take a walk around the royal court of Diwan-i-Khas, marveling at the grand finesse of intricately carved walls.

Entry fee: Indians- INR 40 and Foreigners- INR 510

Timings: Sunrise to sunset (Closed on Fridays)

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16. Gateway of India, Mumbai

Gateway of India, Mumbai - one of the most popular historical places in India

One of India’s iconic landmarks, Gateway of India overlooking the Mumbai Harbour was built by the British in 1924.

In the modern times, the Gateway is a favorite picnic spot for locals and tourists, alike.

Dotted by dozens of street vendors serving lip-smacking local food along with balloon sellers, give this place a pleasingly happy vibe.

Timings: Visit anytime

Entry fee: No charges

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17. Rani ki Vav, Gujarat

Rani ki Vav

This recent archaeological discovery in Patan, Gujarat, was commissioned by Rani Udayamati in 1063 as a memorial to her husband Bhimdev I during the reign of the Solanki dynasty. The stepwell was built as a distinctive form of subterranean water resource and storage system and was later flooded by the nearby Saraswati River. One of the peculiar historical places in India, it holds great spiritual significance and features countless steps that lead you down through the cool air through several panels to reach the deep well below. There are over 500 elaborate sculptures of Gods and Goddesses among seven galleries.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 5 and Foreigners- INR 100

Timings: 8:30 am to 7:00 pm

18. Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur

This Lord Shiva temple is located in Thanjavur in the Southern state of Tamil Nadu. Popularly known as RajaRajeswara Temple, it is undoubtedly one of the largest temples in India and is an exemplar of the fine Hindu architecture from South India prevalent in the Chola period. Built by Raja Raja I to celebrate a military victory, the temple is over 1,000 years old and is one of the three Great Living Chola Temples.  The structure of the temple is made only out of granite. The temple tower or vimanam is 216 feet high making it the tallest in the world. Another interesting fact is that the Kumbam has been carved out of one huge rock which weighs about 80 tonnes!

Entry fee: N/A Timings: 6:00 am to 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm

19. Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh

Gwalior Fort

Perched on top of a hill, this imposing and ancient fort is considered one of the most impenetrable forts in the country and is renowned for its great architecture and glorious past. Counted among the best historical places in India, it has a very long and turbulent history, dating back to as far back as 525 AD. Over the years, it was subjected to many attacks and passed hands amongst several different rulers. The fort really rose to prominence under the reign of the Rajput Tomar dynasty and was thereafter built to its current scale and grandeur. The fort houses a number of historic monuments, Hindu and Jain temples, and palaces. A sound and light show held nightly in the fort’s open-air amphitheatre should not be missed.

Entry fee: for Indians- INR 75 and Foreigners- INR 250

Timings: 6:30 am to 5:30 pm

20. Golconda Fort, Hyderabad

The Golconda Fort is one of the most famous historical landmarks in the city of Hyderabad. This fort is an archaeological treasure that is known for its magnificent architecture, magical acoustic effect, and imposing structure. The fort’s mosques and colossal mud walls and its incredible acoustics are worth seeing. Originally constructed from mud in the 13th-century by the Kakatiya rulers, it reached its pinnacle during the reign of the Qutub Shahi dynasty, from 1518 to 1687. The massive fort has 8 gates and 87 bastions and the ruins consist of numerous gateways, drawbridges, temples, mosques, royal apartments, and stables. A captivating evening sound and lights show narrates the story of the fort.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 15 and Foreigners- INR 200

Timings: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

21. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya

Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple was built by Emperor Asoka and is touted as one of the earliest Buddhist structures built entirely in brick from the late Gupta period. The temple features a massive gilded statue of seated Buddha that is over 5-feet tall. This is the spot where the Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment while meditating under the Bodhi tree. Legend has it that this spot will be the last to disappear when the world comes to an end and the first to reappear when the world is recreated.

Entry fee: N/A

Timings: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm

22. Humayun’s Tomb Delhi

Built-in 1565 AD, this tomb is of particular cultural significance as it was the first grand dynastic mausoleums in India that were to become symbols of Mughal architecture. Its exquisite Persian architecture later inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal 80 years later. The structure was commissioned in 1569-70, nine years after the death of Emperor Humayun, by his widow Bega Begum, and stands in the centre of Charbagh style of gardens complete with pools linked by channels.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 30 and Foreigners- INR 500

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset

23. Mehrangarh_Fort,_Jodhpur

Mehrangarh  Fort

This 15th-century fort is a former palace that’s now a museum, displaying weapons, paintings, and elaborate royal palanquins. Located majestically on a rocky hill, the fort overlooks the walled city of Jodhpur where many buildings are painted in the iconic shade of blue, giving it the name ‘The Blue City’. The fort is one of the most impressive, well-maintained forts in India, and was built by the ruling dynasty of Rathore Rajputs, and features remarkably diverse architecture. The fort still remains in the hands of the royal family, who have taken the onus to restore it and have turned it into an outstanding tourist destination comprising a series of palaces, museums, and restaurants.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 100 and Foreigners- INR 400

Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

24. India Gate, Delhi

India Gate

This 42-metre tall war memorial is dedicated to pay tribute to the soldiers of the British Indian Army who died during World War I between 1914 and 1921. Located in the heart of Delhi, the beautiful lawns surrounding the monument are perfect for a leisurely evening picnic, where you can enjoy the splendid light show at the fountains along with snacking on the street food. Designed by Edwin Lutyens, the cornices of the structure are adorned with the inscription of sun, which symbolized the British Imperial Colony, and the word INDIA is inscribed at the top of the arches on both sides. Every year, the Republic Day Parade is held here.

Entry fee: N/A

Timings: Any time

25. Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan

This impressive and awe-inspiring fort personifies the spirit and grandeur of Rajasthan more than any other edifice in the state. Built under the aegis of Maharana Kumbha of the Mewar kingdom who undertook the construction of this architectural marvel in the 15th century, it is often referred to as ‘The Great Wall of India’. Its imposing fort wall extends for more than 35 kilometres and is the second-longest continuous wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. The fort encompasses about 360 ancient temples, as well as palace ruins, step wells, and cannon bunkers. Maharana Pratap, the legendary king and warrior who was the great-grandson of Rana Kumbha, was born here.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 15 and Foreigners- INR 200

Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

26. Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara

Lakshmi Vilas Palace

This palace serves as the official residence of the Maharaja of Vadodara, and the royal family still resides in this magnificent palace.  Built in 1890 by the prestigious Gaekwad family who ruled Vadodara, it was initially a part of Sarkar Wada. It is reputed to have been the largest private residence built till date and is four times the size of Buckingham Palace. The palace holds a special place given its Indo-Saracenic architecture and its beautiful interiors and is one of the best historical places in India. 

Entry fee: Palace: INR 200

Museum – For Indians – INR 60 and Foreigners – INR 150

Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

27. Charminar, Hyderabad

Counted as Hyderabad’s principal landmark and city symbol, this ancient four-column structure was built by Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah in 1591 to commemorate the end of the plague. The massive 56-metre high structure consists of four arches facing the cardinal points, with minarets on top of each column. It is said that there is a secret tunnel from the monument to the Golconda Fort but it hasn’t been discovered till date. The Charminar stands at the heart of Hyderabad’s main bazaar – Laad Bazaar which is a labyrinth of lanes crowded with shops, stalls, markets, and shoppers.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 5 and Foreigners- INR 100

Timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm

28 . Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer  Fort

This living fort in Jaisalmer houses museum, shops, temples, restaurants, residential accommodations, hotels, old haveli mansions and the like. It is a 250-feet tall fort, which is protected by 15-feet long walls. The fort is home to thousands of people who have been for generations taking shelter in it. The view of the glorious sunset from this fort is a treat to the eyes for all travellers, and especially photo fanatics. The fort looks equally enchanting in golden hues in the early morning when the first rays of the sun reach the ground.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 5 and Foreigners- INR 250

Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

29. Bhimbetka, Bhopal

This special archaeological site manifests some of the earliest vestiges of human life found on the subcontinent of India. The Bhimbetka rock shelters, in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, houses over 750 ancient rock shelters and prehistoric cave paintings. Some of them dating back to 30,000 years while others as recent as the medieval period. The paintings here encapsulate a treasure trove of knowledge of how ancestors lived in an ancient era and show their transformation to hunters and gatherers. It also showcases day to day activities of humans like hunting and trapping of animals like tigers, bisons, wild boars, elephants and jackals, animal rides, dancing, honey collection, childbirth, religious rites, ceremonies, and other such occasions. The rock formations are the result of acute chemical and physical weathering by natural elements over the years.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 10 and Foreigners- INR 100

Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm

30. Cellular Jail, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Built between 1896 and 1908, this gigantic jail was home to hundreds of freedom fighters during India’s struggle for independence and stands as a dark reminiscence of the British rule in the Indian subcontinent. The dreaded colonial prison situated in the archipelago, isolated from the mainland, was used by the British particularly to exile Indian political prisoners. Popularly known as ‘Kala Pani’, this jail witnessed the most atrocious punishments imposed on prisoners. The jail is now open to public viewing as a National Memorial, and its museum presents a sneak peek into the years of India’s struggle for freedom. 

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 30 Timings: 9:00 am to 12:30 pm 1:30 pm to 4:45 pm

31. Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu

This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in Halebidu in the district of Hassan, Karnataka. The making of the temple was commenced in the 12th-century by the erstwhile ruler of Hoysala. The temple is flanked on all sides by ponds, mantapas and lakes, and is well known for the intricate sculptures, exclusive carvings and architecture belonging to the Hoysala period. Built-in soapstone, it has two shrines, one for the king and one for the queen, along with countless figures on the walls that resonate with the different scenes of Mahabharata and Ramayana.

Entry fee: N/A

Timings: 6:30 am to 9:00 pm

32. Elephanta Caves, Mumbai

Elephanta  Caves, Mumbai

This historic world of rock-cut caves boasting a legion of Shaivite sculptures is tucked away in a desolate island locally called Gharapuri, 10 kilometres east of the Mumbai. Numismatic evidence, architectural style, and inscriptions have traced the cave temples to the middle of the 6th-century. Once home to elaborately painted artworks, the Elephanta Caves that exist today are in ruins and consist of two groups of alcoves on the site. The first is a large cluster of five Hindu caves and the second one is a smaller section of two Buddhist caves. In addition to being an important heritage site, the Elephanta Caves are also an unlikely trekking destination, and the views that you are gifted with at the end of the trek are absolutely sublime.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 140 and Foreigners- INR 250

Timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (Closed on Mondays)

33. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

The fascinating Junagarh Fort was constructed by the sixth ruler of Bikaner – Raja Rai Singh. The impressive palace complex composed of marble and red sandstone has stood the test of times and is made up of a wonderful collection of kiosks, bastions, windows, traditional paintings, elaborate stone carvings, balconies and courtyards that look stunning. Comprising of 37 palaces not to mention the innumerable pavilions, temples, and more this magnificent fort is counted among the best historical places in India.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 50 and Foreigners- INR 300 Timings: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

34. Jaipur City Palace, Rajasthan

Jaipur City  Palace

This palace was constructed by the great ruler Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and reflects the perfect fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture. The complex covers an area almost equivalent to one-seventh of the old city of Jaipur and boasts of several picturesque gardens, buildings, courtyards and temples that reflects its historical importance and imparts it a magnificent royal charm. The Maharaja of Jaipur used to stay in the City Palace in the olden days. The royal family still resides in the Chandra Mahal portion of the palace.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 190 and Foreigners- INR 500

Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

35. Chand Baori, Abhaneri

This stepwell is one of the oldest attraction and heritage sight of Rajasthan built by King Chanda of Nikumbh Dynasty between the 8th and the late 9th-century. Locals and royals used to gather at this public gathering place. This marvel was built as a reservoir to primarily save water and provide relief from the sweltering heat of Rajasthan. The architectural design of this stepwell features 3,500 symmetrical lean steps that gradually goes down. What makes its design fascinating is the geometry and the effect of light that falls on the steps at different interval of time.

Entry fee: N/A

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:30 pm

36. Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram

Located in the historic port town of Mahabalipuram, this 7th-century temple is famous for its rock-cut shore architecture and stone carvings that display Pallava art. It took over 200 years to make this Dravidian-style temple, during which time it served as a prominent centre of art and literature. Shore temple is a complex of 3 temples and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, depicting the fusion of religious ideologies prevalent in the past. Legend has it that following Hiranyakashipu’s death by Lord Vishnu, Prahalada took over as the king, and later it was Prahalada’s son Bali who eventually founded Mahabalipuram in this same place.

Entry fee: For Indians- INR 40 and Foreigners- INR 600

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm

If you really love India, you should love it by its history first. Feel the greatness, exquisite architectural beauty and historical culture and diversity of this magnificent country, yourself! Get lost in the ancient world of historic monuments, massive sculptures and uncover some amazing hidden wonders as you explore the dynamic Indian heritage on your next holiday in India.

Exploring history is quite an escapade from the modern times. So head out to these historical monuments in India with your friends or family. Enjoy your getaway!

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