Must See Heritage Sites In India

The Indian Subcontinent has been a point of interest for travel and culture enthusiasts from time immemorial. Its overwhelming diversity in culture, language, religion, weather, places to see and cuisines to try make this region an absolutely must visit destination in their lifetimes. During your visit in the country, there are some truly historic and magnificent sites to witness in the country. We are giving you a list of the 11 best (The Indian Lucky Number!) Heritage sites to see India.

1. Agra, in Uttar Pradesh, is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the Taj Mahal. Coupled with this magnificent building are other worthy historical sites such as the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri – an ancient city.

2. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, stuns with the sensual sculptures carved into its beautiful temples. The town brings visitors back to the medieval times in which it was constructed. It may be a small town but art is laced in all its structures, keeping in mind that it was built between 950 and 1050 AD, it truly is astounding.

 3. Jaipur, Rajasthan, also known as the Pink City, is considered one of the most majestic and colorful in India. In English, Jaipur translates as City of Victory. Near hills and lakes there are magnificent forts, temples and palaces, while the old city has retained its walls and ancient town atmosphere. It is located between Agra and New Delhi to complete what is known as India’s Golden Triangle.

4. Aurangabad, Maharashtra, used to be the capital of the Mughal Empire and it sports beautiful caves, the Grishneshwar Jyotirling temple and Bibi ka Maqbara which is nicknamed the Mini Taj Mahal. While the caves are over 2,000 years old, the temple is still a site of pilgrimage for Hindus.

 5.   Hampi, Karnataka, is the city of ruins. It showcases temples, forts, palaces and many more. Hampi was neglected for years and it fell into ruins due to lack of maintenance, and so it became a World Heritage Site to protect what is left of its glorious history.

6. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, is famous for its carved temples and rock-cut caves. To complement the beauty of its architecture and history, it also sports beautiful beaches. Each of the Five Rathas (temples) was built in stone and hand carved in the monolithic era.

7. Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, is considered a must for Hindu pilgrimages but is also highly enjoyable for any visitor. It is most famous for the Sanchi Stupa, which dates back to the 3rd Century. It is considered the root of the Buddhist culture in India. Also noteworthy are its monasteries.

8. New Delhi is India’s capital and as such, is very modern with its shopping centers, world-renowned university and all forms of modern entertainment. However, it is a city of split personality as its ancient traditions are still very much alive. Its architectural history is dated to the 4th Century when the Iron Pillar was built. The Mughal Gardens remain a peaceful place of wonder and the temples and ancient bridges are reminders of the past. Also unforgettable is New Delhi’s street food, a true experience in and of itself.

9. Pattadakal, Karnataka, offer temples as its main attraction. This single location showcases different types of architecture – a rare occurrence.

10. Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, is known for grand palaces, forts and carved temples. Built in Medieval times on the banks of the Betwa River, it became the capital of the Bundelas, one of the most powerful dynasties to ever rule India.

11. Kolkata, West Bengal, the city that used to be called Calcutta is also referred to as the City of Joy and the Cultural Capital of India. One of the most densely populated city in the country, it still reflects the British that ruled it for so many years and opened the gateway for Indian Culture to cross oceans. It is also home to the oldest museum in India.

You can enjoy these sites and more with the Classic India Tour of Go Discover Abroad.