10 must see historical monuments of India once in your lifetime

India is a country of rich cultural diversity. The mighty forts and palaces of Rajasthan and the picturesque backwaters of Kerala, the undying magic of Goa and the serene beauty of north-east, there is so much to explore in our country! The amalgamation of different cultures, traditions and religions is what makes us so unique. People from all over the world head to India to explore the rich architectural heritage and natural beauty. We list for you the top 10 tourist places in India.

These historical monuments of India are famous all over the world and are a must visit.

1. Taj Mahal – Agra

When listing the must see monuments in India, the first name has to be Taj Mahal. The epitome of love, Taj Mahal is the pride of India. Taj Mahal is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture.

Made of glistening white marble, it is a structure dedicated to love. Built by Mughal Emper or Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this mausoleum is located in the heart of Agra city. Taj Mahal has also been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list and is one of the must see places in India.

2. India Gate – Delhi

India Gate is a part of the identity of Delhi. India Gate is one of the most popular monuments of the national capital. The 42 meters high India Gate commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I. The monument bears the names of more than 13,516 Indian and British soldiers who were killed during the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919.

The Amar Jawan Jyoti, an eternal flame burns day and night in memory of the brave soldiers. The lush green and well-manicured gardens around India Gate have made it a popular picnic spot. A perfect place to soak in the sunshine or enjoy a breezy summer evening!

3. Amber Fort – Jaipur

I feel that a trip to Jaipur is considered incomplete if you don’t visit the beautiful Amber Fort. The fort is located in a small town – Amer, just 1 km from Jaipur. It is built in marble and red sandstone.

The fort was built by Raja Man Singh in 1592 and subsequently developed by Sawai Jai Singh. It tells a story about the royal past of Rajasthan. The exteriors are rugged, but the interiors will leave you spellbound. The palace complex is divided into four main sections each with a separate gate and courtyard. ‘Diwan-e-Aam’, ‘Sheesh Mahal’ and ‘Sukh Mahal’ are the most beautiful parts of the fort.

Jal Mahal in Jaipur is a must visit too. It a palace located in Jaipur city in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Rajasthan is certainly a bejewelled destination for historical monuments of India.

4. Gateway of India – Mumbai

What Taj Mahal is to Agra, Gateway of India is to Mumbai. In fact it is also known as Taj Mahal of Mumbai. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Mumbai city. Situated at the water’s edge of Mumbai harbor, the monument is the soul of the city. Experts say that it was built to celebrate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai from Delhi in 1911.

Gateway of India is 26 meter high and a perfect amalgamation of Hindu and Mughal architecture.

5. Red Fort – Delhi

Red Fort is a great example of Mughal grandeur and panache. It was the seat of the Mughal emperor for more than 200 years. The name Lal Quila has been derived from its red sandstone walls.

It was built as the fortified palace of Shahjahanabad, the capital of the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648. Spend an evening in the lawns of Red Fort witnessing the colorful history through a majestic sound and light show. Red Fort is the soul of Old Delhi and the surrounding Meena Bazaar is a riot of colors.

6. Golden Temple – Amritsar

Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib is the most important and popular Gurudwaras of our country. It is also known as Darbar Sahib and was built by the fourth Sikh guru, Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji, in the 16^th century.

The dome of Gurudwara is made of gold and one needs to see it to believe its gleam. The holiest text of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib is always present inside the Gurudwara. Be at the Golden Temple to find peace and balance in life.

7. City Palace – Udaipur

Udaipur – the city of lakes. It is one of the most loved tourist destinations of Rajasthan. City Palace is located on the banks of Lake Pichola. It is a fine example of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. The palace complex is built entirely in granite and marble.

The architectural grandeur of the palace is what makes it so special. You need to see it to believe it. The palace also gives peekaboo into the glorious past of the region. Built 400 years ago, City Palace, Udaipur is the largest palace of Rajasthan and is certainly a part of Top 10 tourist destinations in India.

8. Char Minar – Hyderabad

Hyderabad is known for three things – Biryani, pearls and Char Minar. This princely structure is an integral part of the identity of Hyderabad city. The monument perfectly defines Nizam culture and grandeur.

Char Minar literally translates to ‘Four Towers’ and is situated on the east banks of Musi River. On the western end of Char Minar is the popular Laad Bazaar. You can shop for intricate jewelry and pretty bangles at Laad Bazaar. A small mosque adorns the top floor of the Charminar.

9. Basilica of Bom Jesus – Goa

Sun, sand and beaches…that’s what Goa is synonymous with. But apart from these, Goa is reckoned for its colonial architecture, laid back feel and warm and welcoming people.

Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Old Goa. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the heart of Panjim city. The 400 year old church is home to the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.

The intricate architecture, high ceiling, highly decorated altars and beautiful interiors of the church speak volumes about the rich culture and heritage of the region.

10. Mysore Palace – Mysore

Southern India has many jewels and one of them is the majestic Mysore Fort. Also referred to as Amba Vilas Palace, it is one of the most popular palaces of south India. The popularity of the palace is such that it is one of most visited monument in India after Taj Mahal. The architecture of the palace is a blend of Hindu, Rajput, Muslim and Gothic styles. The opulence and magnificence of the palace is great and you need to be there to believe what an architectural wonder it is. Mysore Palace is for sure one of the Top 10 tourist attractions in India.

The palace is the official residence and seat of Wodeyars — the Maharajas of Mysore, the former royal family of Mysore, who ruled the princely state of Mysore from 1399 to 1950. The palace houses two durbar halls and many gardens and courtyards.

A country is known by it’s rich culture and past. India has been shining since time immemorial and these monuments are a witness to that. So whether you have an interest in history or not, do visit these Historical monuments of India and feel the pride in country’s rich backbone and might. You will fall in love all the more- Guaranteed.

So where are you heading? Which one of these Historical monuments of India is in your next plan of action? Do let us know in the comments below.