Historical destinations to visit in India

India has a long and illustrious history, and the Indian subcontinent has been a major hub of intellectual activity since ancient times. Thanks to this, India has many historical sites, monuments, and destinations which offer a glimpse into the past. This guide will explore some of India’s most famous historical destinations and give insight into the vibrant culture and ancient customs of the Indian people.

1. Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are one of the most important historical sites in India. Located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, these ancient caves contain artwork and sculptures from the period of the 2nd century BCE to 480 CE. The caves feature exquisite murals and paintings depicting the Buddhist culture along with stories from the Jatakas, which are scenes from the life of Buddha. A visit to the Ajanta Caves is an opportunity to explore the art and culture of ancient India.

2. Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves are the next stop in this list of historical destinations to visit in India. It is located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra and is one of the most impressive rock-cut cave temples in India. The site contains 34 monasteries, which were built between the 5th and 10th centuries CE. Out of these 34 monasteries, 17 are Buddhist, 12 are Hindu and 5 are Jain. The Ellora Caves are known for their stunning architecture and sculptures, and provide a stunning insight into the culture of India from ancient times.

3. Sanchi Stupas

The Sanchi Stupas, located in Madhya Pradesh, are incredibly well-preserved Buddhist sites that provide insight into the Buddhism and culture of India. The stupas were built in the 3rd century BCE, and contain several noteworthy artifacts including stone palisades, carved pillars, gateways, and several sculptures. The sculptures depict stories from Buddha’s life and help visitors immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of ancient India.

4. Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is India’s most iconic monument and is located on the banks of the river Yamuna in Agra. The Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, as a grand mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The white-marble mausoleum is known for its stunning architecture and intricate details and is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the history of India.

5. Khajuraho Group of Monuments

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The group contains a range of Hindu and Jain temples, which date back to 950 to 1050 CE. The temples feature intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, and are a must-see for anyone looking to explore the rich culture of India.

6. Hampi

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is located in the state of Karnataka. The site is an ancient archaeological city, which was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. The city is known for its stunning architecture, especially the temples and palaces, which is a testament to the richness of the culture and lifestyle in Medieval India. A visit here is an opportunity to soak up the vibrancy of life in ancient India.

7. Konark Sun Temple

The Konark Sun Temple is one of the most famous monuments in India and is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the history of India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Surya and is located in the state of Orissa. The temple features an intricate stone chariot, which is a testament to the engineering skills of the ancient Indians. A visit to the temple is an opportunity to explore the grandeur and beauty of Medieval India.

Conclusion

India has a rich and diverse history, and the historical sites mentioned in this list provide insight into the culture and lifestyle of people in Medieval India. These sites are a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the history of India and get an immersive experience of the past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find below the responses to the questions related to historical destinations worth visiting in India.

What are the most important historical sites in India?

The most important historical sites in India include the Ajanta Caves, the Ellora Caves, the Sanchi Stupas, the Taj Mahal, the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Hampi and the Konark Sun Temple.

How old are the Ellora Caves?

The Ellora Caves date back to between the 5th and 10th centuries CE.

What is the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal is a grand mausoleum built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.