India’s Top 8 Historical Landmarks [with photos]

The country of India is home to a staggering number of historical landmarks, from the Taj Mahal to ancient temples and everything in between. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a luxury vacation, especially given the stellar heritage maharaja palaces around Rajasthan…

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With over a billion citizens who call India their home, the country is bursting with vibrant culture, delicious and authentic cuisine and a distinct and truly unique way of life.

Tours are often recommended because of the sheer size of the country, as well as the lack of reliable public transportation over long distances.

I recommend visiting the following top eight historical landmarks. 

1. Taj Mahal in Agra – arguably India’s most famous building

Agra’s Taj Mahal. There can be no denying that this is the most iconic structure in all of India.

Built between 1632 and 1653 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Be sure to visit this majestic mausoleum made from white marble and semiprecious gems in the heart of the city of Agra. 

2. Red Fort in New Delhi

This sandstone fort, called Lal Qila by locals, was built in the seventeenth century and remains one of the most popular tourism destinations in the capital city of Delhi.

Tour the area during the day but come back at night for the spectacular light and sound show each evening after dark.

3. Humayun’s Tomb in New Delhi

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnificent structure in Delhi that greatly resembles the Taj Mahal, although on a slightly less grand scale.

The incredible building is intricately decorated both inside and out, and remains in pristine condition.

4. Golden Temple in Amritsar

Perhaps one of the most important religious sites for Sikhs is the Golden Temple, a beautiful structure located in the city of Amritsar. The temple is open every hour of every day and is lit up at night in a breathtaking way. Religious Sikhs visit here once in their life to volunteer. 

5. Govind Devji Temple in Jaipur

This temple is a mecca for followers of Lord Krishna. Located in Jaipur, the Govind Devj Temple is a busy spot full of pilgrims as well as interested visitors wanting to learn more about the religion and history of the Vaishnavites.

6. Jantar Mantar astronomical instruments in Jaipur

The Jantar Mantar monument in Rajasthan’s Jaipur boasts nineteen architectural astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II, and completed in 1734. It features the world’s largest stone sundial, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

7. Ajanta and Ellora

Although some visitors write off these UNESCO World Heritage sites as merely caves, Ajanta and Ellora are certainly worth visiting on any tour. Some of the caves date back over two thousand years, and boast incredible architecture, religious texts and stunning art. 

Here’s a good guide on how to get there.

8. Ghats of Varanasi

Ghats are simply stairs that lead to the water, and in the case in Varanasi they lead directly to the Ganges River. Visit to see the sheer vastness of the steps along the river for miles, where people bathe, relax and pray. 

And then there are plenty of other attractions on this incredible subcontinent…

Heritage maharaja luxury hotels

These are my reviews of commendable hotels we stayed at:

• Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
• Deogarh Mahal, Deogarh
• Samode Palace, Jaipur