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Top Historical Sites in India Worth Exploring in 2024
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Mar 6,2023
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1k
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Mar 6,2023
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India, a land of rich history and diverse culture, boasts an array of historical places that tell captivating stories of its glorious past. As we step into 2024, there's no better time to explore these timeless treasures. From majestic forts and ancient temples to stunning palaces and historic landmarks, each site offers a unique glimpse into India's heritage. Embark on a journey through time and discover the best historical sites in India that are truly worth exploring this year.
Explore the grandeur of India's heritage with this curated list of 47 iconic historical landmarks.
|
No. |
Place |
City |
State |
Description |
|
1 |
Taj Mahal |
Agra |
Uttar Pradesh |
Iconic marble mausoleum and a symbol of eternal love. |
|
2 |
Qutub Minar |
New Delhi |
Delhi |
Tallest brick minaret in the world, a fine example of Mughal architecture. |
|
3 |
Red Fort |
New Delhi |
Delhi |
Historic fort, site of India's Independence Day celebrations. |
|
4 |
Amber Fort |
Jaipur |
Rajasthan |
Fortified residence of Rajput Maharajas with stunning architecture. |
|
5 |
Hawa Mahal |
Jaipur |
Rajasthan |
The "Palace of Winds" known for its unique façade. |
|
6 |
Agra Fort |
Agra |
Uttar Pradesh |
Mughal stronghold featuring a mix of architectural styles. |
|
7 |
City Palace |
Jaipur |
Rajasthan |
Grand palace complex with courtyards and museums. |
|
8 |
Fatehpur Sikri |
Agra |
Uttar Pradesh |
Former Mughal capital with well-preserved structures. |
|
9 |
Humayun's Tomb |
New Delhi |
Delhi |
Precursor to the Taj Mahal with beautiful gardens. |
|
10 |
Ranthambore Fort |
Sawai Madhopur |
Rajasthan |
A fort surrounded by wildlife, known for its historical ruins. |
|
11 |
Jaisalmer Fort |
Jaisalmer |
Rajasthan |
Massive fort known as 'Sonar Quila', largely still inhabited. |
|
12 |
Mehrangarh Fort |
Jodhpur |
Rajasthan |
One of the largest forts in India, overlooking the Blue City. |
|
13 |
Ajanta Caves |
Aurangabad |
Maharashtra |
Buddhist rock-cut cave monuments with paintings and sculptures. |
|
14 |
Konark Sun Temple |
Konark |
Odisha |
13th-century temple shaped like a giant chariot. |
|
15 |
Sanchi Stupa |
Sanchi |
Madhya Pradesh |
Buddhist complex famous for its Great Stupa. |
|
16 |
Mahabodhi Temple |
Bodh Gaya |
Bihar |
The site where Buddha attained enlightenment. |
|
17 |
Brihadeeswarar Temple |
Thanjavur |
Tamil Nadu |
Grand temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. |
|
18 |
Mysore Palace |
Mysore |
Karnataka |
Opulent palace with intricate architecture and royal history. |
|
19 |
Charminar |
Hyderabad |
Telangana |
Monumental mosque known for its four grand arches. |
|
20 |
Golconda Fort |
Hyderabad |
Telangana |
Fortified citadel and former diamond trading center. |
|
21 |
Hampi |
Hampi |
Karnataka |
Ancient village dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes. |
|
22 |
Victoria Memorial |
Kolkata |
West Bengal |
Grand white marble museum, a relic of the British Raj. |
|
23 |
Gateway of India |
Mumbai |
Maharashtra |
Iconic arch built to commemorate the visit of King George V. |
|
24 |
Chittorgarh Fort |
Chittorgarh |
Rajasthan |
One of the largest forts in India with a heroic past. |
|
25 |
Khajuraho Temples |
Khajuraho |
Madhya Pradesh |
Group of temples famous for their nagara-style architecture and erotic sculptures. |
|
26 |
Padmanabhaswamy Temple |
Thiruvananthapuram |
Kerala |
Famous for its riches and secret vaults beneath the temple. |
|
27 |
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves |
Bhubaneswar |
Odisha |
Ancient Jain caves with ornate carvings. |
|
28 |
Pattadakal |
Bagalkot |
Karnataka |
Complex of Hindu and Jain temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. |
|
29 |
Elephanta Caves |
Mumbai |
Maharashtra |
Island caves dedicated to Hindu and Buddhist deities. |
|
30 |
Sun Temple, Modhera |
Mehsana |
Gujarat |
Ancient sun temple known for its intricate architecture. |
|
31 |
Ranakpur Jain Temple |
Ranakpur |
Rajasthan |
Exquisite Jain temple famous for its detailed marble work. |
|
32 |
Jantar Mantar |
Jaipur |
Rajasthan |
Astronomical observatory with large-scale instruments. |
|
33 |
Nalanda |
Nalanda |
Bihar |
Site of an ancient university and centre of learning. |
|
34 |
Junagarh Fort |
Bikaner |
Rajasthan |
Historical fort with palaces and temples within its premises. |
|
35 |
Dwarka |
Dwarka |
Gujrat |
Dwarka, a revered ancient city, is considered one of the four major pilgrimages of Hinduism and believed to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna. |
|
36 |
Dilwara Temples |
Mount Abu |
Rajasthan |
Jain temples known for their stunning marble architecture. |
|
37 |
Lotus Temple |
New Delhi |
Delhi |
Bahá'í House of Worship, famous for its flowerlike shape. |
|
38 |
Kumbhalgarh Fort |
Kumbhalgarh |
Rajasthan |
Known for its massive walls that extend over 38 km. |
|
39 |
Orchha Fort |
Orchha |
Madhya Pradesh |
Historic complex with palaces and temples along the Betwa River. |
|
40 |
Cherai |
Kochi |
Kerela |
A captivating coast and former landing spot for European colonial traders and a hub for local fishing communities. |
|
41 |
Belur Math |
Kolkata |
West Bengal |
Headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, a spiritual center. |
|
42 |
Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace |
Bangalore |
Karnataka |
Example of Indo-Islamic architecture surrounded by gardens. |
|
43 |
Gwalior Fort |
Gwalior |
Madhya Pradesh |
Hilltop fort known for its defensive structure and palaces. |
|
44 |
Rohtasgarh Fort |
Rohtas |
Bihar |
Ancient fort known for its historical and architectural significance. |
|
45 |
Rumi Darwaza |
Lucknow |
Uttar Pradesh |
Ornate gateway originally built as a famine relief project. |
|
46 |
Corbett |
Nainital |
Uttarakhand |
India's oldest national park, the sanctuary for the endangered Bengal tiger. |
|
47 |
Cellular Jail |
Port Blair |
Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
Colonial-era prison infamous for the harsh treatment of its inmates. |
We will now delve into the stories of some of the best historical places in India mentioned above.
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is a mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. This iconic symbol of love is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is admired worldwide for its stunning architectural beauty.
Interesting Facts- It is made entirely of white marble and took approximately 20,000 artisans and 22 years to complete. The Taj Mahal changes colour depending on the time of day, weather, and moonlight.
What to See: Visitors can admire the intricate marble work, the lush gardens, the reflecting pool, and the grand gateway that frames the mausoleum.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is from November to February, when the weather is mild and fog-free, offering clear views of the structure.
Where to stay in Agra:
When in Agra do not miss your stay in Saura hotel resort. This resort in Agra has the finest modern amenities and the top notch services giving you an ultimate relaxation and fun time with your family.
The city of Dwarka is woven around many mythical legends and is one of the oldest historical places in India. And one of its most prominent tales happens to be associated with the courageous Lord Krishna. He is believed to have held his Kingdom here, after defeating the land from continual harassing raids from the powerful King, Jarasandha. The city was named ‘Suvarna Dwarka’ because it was embellished in pure gold and precious jewels! Countless devotees flock to this historic place in Gujarat, hoping to nourish their hearts with positivity and peace. Imagine, what could be more inspiring than a family trip to Dwarka?
Interesting Facts: Dwarka, one of India's oldest cities, is believed to have submerged several times by the sea and reemerged, adding to its mystical allure.
What to See: Explore the majestic Dwarkadhish Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Krishna. Don't miss the sacred Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and the serene Dwarka Beach for a tranquil experience.
Best Time to Visit: Visit between October to March to enjoy pleasant weather and engage in spiritual and cultural exploration.
Where to Stay: Our Club Mahindra Dwarka resort is the perfect blend of heritage and luxury, bringing you a refreshing escape from the city hustle and bustle. Do not miss to book your stay in this resort in Dwarka and have a quality family time.
Kumbhalgarh Fort is yet another landmark deeply rooted in mythology. It was built by Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century on the westerly range of Rajasthan’s Aravalli Hills. At first, the king wished to have it erected in Keliwada, 7 kilometres from its current site. However, it is believed that strange occurrences plagued this construction. The king then approached a saint, who claimed that the only way the fort would stand is if a human sacrifice was offered. When no one came forward, the saint offered himself up for the ritual. He said a temple should be built where his head falls, and a fort must be built where his body lays. This is the magnificent tale that presides over the majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come evening, this enigmatic fort turns into one of Rajasthan's most brilliant light and sound show venues, that transports you back to the 15th Century.
Interesting Facts: Kumbhalgarh Fort boasts the distinction of possessing the second-longest continuous wall in the world, after the Great Wall of China. Built in the 15th century, this fortress stands as a testament to Rajputana grandeur and architectural brilliance.
What to See: Embark on a journey through history as you explore Kumbhalgarh Fort's sprawling complex, including the regal Badal Mahal and the ornate Kumbha Palace. The panoramic vistas of the Aravalli Range from the fort are simply breathtaking.
Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip from October to March to relish the pleasant weather and fully immerse yourself in the rich history and scenic beauty of Kumbhalgarh.
Where to stay: To experience the aura of India’s second largest fort, and learn of more legends, do visit Club Mahindra Kumbhalgarh. This resort in Kumbhalgarh is one of the best destination for an authentic and memorable family vacation. From the food to the folklore, bear witness to many spectacles, this time with the added element of resort safety.
Nestled in the foothills of the Kumaon Himalayas lies a serene little village, once the personal home of hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett or “Corbett Sahib’”. Fondly referred to as “Chhoti Haldwani”, this picturesque town in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand echoes with fascinating stories of his famous conquests.
Interesting Facts: Eighty-seven years ago, Corbett hunted three tigers - the Chowgarh, Mohan and Kanda man-eaters, who he christened “large-hearted gentleman”. He immortalised his life in the Kumaon region through a number of literary works such as “Man-Eaters of Kumaon” and “My India and Tree Tops”.
What to See: Embark on exhilarating wildlife safaris through the park's varied terrain, keeping a keen eye out for the elusive tigers, majestic elephants, and other fascinating wildlife species. Delight in birdwatching excursions and immerse yourself in the park's serene ambience.
Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit between November to June to make the most of the dry season and increase your chances of spotting wildlife. For avid tiger enthusiasts, March to May offers optimal conditions for tiger sightings amidst the lush foliage of Corbett National Park.
Where to stay: To learn more of his colourful life’s tales, head over to Club Mahindra Corbett. From wildlife safaris to jungle walks, and a tour of his home, prepare yourself for many thrills. Yes, tales of his valour and wisdom reverberate in these very hills. There are several enriching places to visit in Corbett, and we’ll be happy to show you around. Apt for a family vacation, here’s your chance to explore this resort in Corbett with equal measure of wildlife and history.
Cherai boasts of 700 years of gilded history. Situated on the northern end of Vypin Island, this astonishingly beautiful land is a melange of nature, culture and heritage. Colonial influences from the Portuguese, Dutch and British dynasties, have left its mark for the world to marvel at. And we can’t think of a better place for fairy-tales and storybooks to come alive. After all, this is where the dolphins dance! So, journey to this balmy, brilliant beach paradise with your family in tow.
Interesting Facts: Nestled in the lap of nature, Cherai is a captivating beach destination renowned for its pristine shores and tranquil backwaters. It offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and serenity, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
What to See: Spend leisurely hours basking in the golden sands of Cherai Beach or embark on a scenic boat ride through the tranquil backwater channels. Explore the historic Pallipuram Fort and immerse yourself in the region's rich cultural heritage.
Best Time to Visit: From September to March, Cherai beckons with its mild climate, making it the perfect time to indulge in beach activities, sightseeing, and soaking in the region's natural beauty.
Where to stay: Club Mahindra Cherai is a haven of tranquillity, dazzling guests with its antique charm and emerald-green beauty. Now, all that’s left is for you to make the trip. With hotel safety measures in place, at this resort in Cherai all your worries will be put to bay.
Nalanda, located in Bihar, India, was a renowned ancient center for learning from the 5th century CE to 1197 CE. It is famous for its vast Buddhist monastery and university, which attracted scholars from all over Asia. Historically, it symbolises the rich academic and spiritual life that flourished during its time, representing a significant period in the development of education in India.
Interesting Facts: Nalanda is considered one of the world’s first residential universities, housing over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers. The library of Nalanda, known as Dharmaganja, was extensive, comprising several multi-storied buildings.
What to See: Visitors can explore the ruins of the great monastery, stupas, and several temples. The site also features a museum nearby that houses Buddhist statues, coins, and other relics excavated from the area.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nalanda is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant for exploration.
Hampi, situated in Karnataka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and captivating ruins. Once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, it showcases the architectural genius of its era through its remaining structures and monuments.
Interesting Facts: Hampi's landscape is dotted with more than 1,600 remains, including temples, palaces, and market streets. The iconic Stone Chariot in Hampi is actually a shrine dedicated to Garuda, built inside the Vittala Temple complex.
What to See: Key attractions include the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and the Hampi Bazaar. The monolithic sculptures and the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and rivers are visually stunning.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Hampi is from November to February, as the weather is more moderate, making it easier to wander around and appreciate the site.
Cellular Jail, located in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a colonial prison built by the British in 1906. The jail was used to exile political prisoners during the struggle for India's independence and has since become a symbol of colonial oppression and the resilience of the Indian freedom fighters.
Interesting Facts: The jail is called "Cellular" because it is entirely made up of individual cells for the solitary confinement of the prisoners. It now serves as a national memorial monument displaying the life and times of its prisoners.
What to See: Visitors can see the old cells, the execution room, and galleries with photographs and exhibits related to the era of Indian independence.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Cellular Jail is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to spending time outdoors.
Have we piqued your curiosity and sense of adventure as yet? If yes, head to a Club Mahindra resort near you for more interesting titbits from our ancient archives. As a Club Mahindra membership holder, you can have access to over 140 resorts across the country and abroad.
