25 monuments in this category
Enchanting imperial monuments of the medieval city Siri rubs shoulder with the contemporary shops and restaurants at Hauz Khas Village complex, a must-visit tourist attraction in the whole of Delhi. The village attained limelight when the likes of Bina Ramani established their fashion boutiques in the late 1980s. What followed were the flocks of enthusiasts from all over the country who filled the space with chic cafes, restaurants, designer shops as well as residential constructions. The complex today boasts of centuries old tombs of the imperial rulers, regal pavilions, old madrasas (Islamic learning centres) a beautiful deer garden (housing deer, rabbits, peacocks and other exciting attractions), a water reservoir and a constantly expanding scene of modern establishments. Eco Night Bazaar and Open Nights are the events when the complex bustles with eye-pleasing adornments all around. To make the wonderful vibe even more happening, live bands and video projectionists along with popular DJs contribute impressively at numerous venues. Enjoy some delicious flavours and aromas at various cafes, bakeries and restaurants and shop everything from jewelleries, bags, lamps, curios and quirky clothes to herbs, spices, pickles and organic products. Art lovers can definitely have their share of good time at Delhi Art Gallery and many other art galleries in the complex. You can also join a heritage walk to explore the place better.
Pavagadh Hill is a popular hill station in Gujarat, known mainly for the temple of Mother Kali dating back to the 10 th or11 th century. At the height of about 762 m. above sea level, the temple is counted among 51 Shakti-Peethas and attracts millions of pilgrims annually. Devoted pilgrims take up the 5 km. walk along the jungle to reach the temple. Another alternative is to take the ropeway and then climb few steps leading to the temple. The temple is fortified with a chowk in front and two altars for making sacrifices. The place is lit up on special occasions. The main idol is that of Ma Kali featuring only the head painted in red. Complete idols of Mahakali and Bahuchara Yantras are also present. To accommodate most pilgrims the temple is open for a long duration and there is also a rest house called Machi Haveli for the night stay. Pavagadh is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, called Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, displaying age old tradition of historical culture. The place is also famous as the birthplace of Baiju Bawra, the famous musician of Gujarat.
Qudsia Begum, better known as Gohar Begum, became the first woman ruler of Bhopal at the tender age of 18. A capable ruler and popular among her subjects, she got Gohar Mahal constructed in the year 1820. The palace is an architectural marvel that blends Hindu and Islamic architecture elements and boasts of a charming appearance even in the present day poor state. Occupying the banks of Upper Lake, the palace is on the way to revive its past glory with the ongoing renovation efforts. The three storey structure is known for its fascinating archways, intricate woodwork, paintings and other remarkable features. Apart from being a heritage treasure of Bhopal, the monument is also a popular venue for organizing handicraft fairs and exhibitions. Beautiful sculptures, carvings and a variety of crafts and artefacts are on constant display at the palace round the year. The views of the lakes from palace’s roofs add to its tourism value.
Bijolia (also known as Beejoliya Kalan) is a town known for its rich heritage and sacred temples belonging to Hinduism and Jainism. Located on a rugged plateau, it is a walled town with two gates in the north and south directions. It once emerged as a popular centre of art and architecture and one can easily follow the footprints of the same while in the town. Bijolia is famous for its fort which though in the state of ruins is still a noteworthy construction. The famous Shiva temple called Hajaresvara Mahadeva is located within the fort and is known for highlights carved archways, holy pond and more than hundred Shiva Lingams. Another attraction of the place is the series of five Jain Temples known for their rock inscriptions. The most revered of these temples is the one dedicated to Lord Parsvanath. The adjoining Teerth Kshetra where Parsvanath is believed to have performed penance hundreds of years ago is visited by thousands of pilgrims. Interesting petrographs can also be found nearby.
A charming congregation of grand fairy-tale structures built in red sandstone and marble, Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 37 km. from Agra. Mughal Emperor Fatehpur Sikri got it constructed in the 16th century and declared it the empire’s capital replacing Agra. However, the city was deserted within 13 years mainly due to ineffective water system. Today, it stands gracefully as a ghost city with its time-honoured monuments easily attracting tourists from all over. Blending Islamic, Hindu and Jain architectures, along with features of Gujarat and Bengal architecture schools, the city complex on a raised platform is accessible by numerous massive gateways like Delhi Gate, Agra Gate, Lal Gate, Ajmere Gate, Gwalior Gate and many more. Though every single monument is worth visiting, the most notable ones include Buland Darwaza, Tomb of Salim Chishti, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Naubat Khana, Panch Mahal and Pachisi Court. Friday Mosque (Jama Masjid), Anup Talao (an ornamental pool) and sections like mints, treasuries, royal workshops and royal residences add to the grandeur of the complex. Foreign travellers can buy a combined ADA ticket worth INR 500 per head to explore all famous monuments of Agra along with Fatehpur Sikri in a single day.
Mandawa is one of the important parts of the Shekhawati Region. The region is known for its fearless people and its amazing crafts and architecture. Presenting a true picture of typical Rajasthani village, the region has a number of splendidly embellished Shekhwati Havelis. Also dubbed as the ‘Scotland of India,’ Shekhawati Region attracts numerous visitors every year. The several beautifully carved Havelis in Shekhawati Region is adorned with eye-pleasing Murals. The walls and interiors of the Havelis are mythology dominated, with the designs of local legends, portraits, animals and hunting activities carved on it. Apart from the magnificent Havelis, Shekhawati is also popular for its huge fortress - Mandawa Fort. The fort is now transformed into a heritage hotel. Every curve of the Mandawa Fort is painted with enamouring paintings depicting Lord Krishna and his cows. The capturing paintings, lavish murals and mirror work adorn nearly every room of the fort and make visit to Mandawa Fort a worthy experience. Visitors to Shekhawati Region can also explore nearby attractions like Mukundgarh, Fatehpur, Jhunjhunu, Dundlod and Parsurampura etc.
Among the fabulous Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, designated as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO, are the Panch Rathas or Five Chariots, astoundingly carved over monolithic pink granite stones. Dating way back to the 7th century, these masterpieces are dedicated to the Pandavas (five heroic brothers from Mahabharata) and their wife Draupadi. The most attractive one is Dharmaraja Ratha, dedicated to the eldest of the five brothers, admired for its pyramidal structure and many splendid carvings. Other four are Bheema Ratha, Arjuna Ratha, Nakula and Sehdeva Ratha and Draupadi Ratha, each having a different layout but a compelling design. Interestingly, none of the five stone chariots are complete in design. The group also consists of impressive monolithic structures of a lion, a bull and an elephant. Located close to the coast, these monuments are surrounded by many other equally charming heritage gems like Shore Temple and Arjuna’s Penance.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora Caves in Aurangabad are renowned for 34 impressive caves that are carved out of volcanic rock. Locally famous as ‘Verul Leni,’ it is the pride of Maharashtra. Displaying the flawless and impeccable illustration of art and architecture, Ellora Caves define the concept of ‘Unity in Diversity’ in India. Out of the 34 caves in Ellora, 17 are dedicated to Hindus, 14 to Buddhists and remaining to Jains. Ellora is home to the huge 8th century Kailashnath Temple (located in Cave 16) that portrays the scenes from the holy books of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The temple is created out of a single solid block of stone. The caves depict the harmony that exists between Hindu, Buddhist, Jains and other religions. Some of the highlights of Ellora Caves, which visitors shouldn’t miss on their trip, are Cave 2, Cave 6, Cave 11 and 12, Vishwakarma Cave, Hindu Caves and Jain Caves.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as Prince of Wales Museum is one of the premier museums of India. It was established in the 20th century by the Prince of Wales and hence gained its name. The museum is divided into three floors with several galleries displaying art, maritime, archeology and natural history. Its admirable architecture and an amazing collection of rare archeological artifacts, sculptures, and ancient artworks are spectacular. It has been awarded “The 2010 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award’ for the conservation of rich cultural heritage. This most important landmark of Mumbai is a must visit for educational tours as it is a storehouse of knowledge.
Envoy of mesmerizing Indian wall painting that flourished between 2 BC and 7 AD, Ajanta Caves consist of 30 rock-cut cave monuments. Dedicated to Buddhism and Jataka Tales, the murals on the walls are extremely spellbinding and so are the sculptures and architectural elements of these caves. Carved along a horseshoe-shaped cliff along River Waghora, the caves boast of mystic ambiance and lush green surroundings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these caves have been designated as the protected monuments by the Archaeological Survey of India. While few caves represent the Hinayana phase of Buddhism, while others are believed to belong to the Mahayana phase. Monasteries, stupas, sanctuaries, viharas, chaitya-grihas and verandas are the main sections. Few of the caves continue to be incomplete. Murals at Ajanta consist of decorative patterns and are done using a variety of shades. Some equally majestic caves can be found at Ellora at the distance of about 105 km. Warnings: Carrying a torch can be handy as it may get dark inside the caves.
One of the greatest bas-reliefs the world has ever seen, Arjuna’s Penance is a miraculous representation of excellent artistry. The relief, which is believed to be hundreds of years old, is carved on two gigantic boulders (of pink granite) separated by a natural cleft. It is an incredible experience to explore the beautifully carved figures of Gods, demigods, celestial creatures, humans, birds and animals like elephants and monkeys. Also called the Descent of Ganga (River Ganges), the relief portrays popular legends like penance performed by Arjuna (one of the five Pandavas) to please Lord Shiva and penance performed by King Bhagirath to bring the holy River Ganga on the earth. The relief is a part of the Group of Monuments of Mahabalipuram, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Other attractions of the group include Shore Temple, Five Rathas, Mahishamardini Cave and Thirukadalmallai Temple.
Enclosed in the rustic Vindhyachal ranges, Bhimbetka Caves and rock shelters portray the earliest signs of human race in South Asia. Designated as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the caves boast of rock paintings which date back to more than 30,000 years and classified into periods like Upper Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, Chalcolithic, Early Historic and Medieval. The place gets its name from Bhima, one of the five Pandavas who spent some time here during their exile period. More than 240 caves have been located in the region out of which only 15 are open for public viewing. Done in colours like red, white, green and yellow obtained from sources like animal fats, plant leaves, manganese, soft red stone, wooden coal and hematite, the paintings and drawings depict themes like dancing, hunting, childbirth, animal riding, animal fights and numerous animal figures. Surrounded by lavish green forests, these rock canvases are a must-visit to explore the earliest days of human evolution. Warnings Don’t scratch or damage the cave walls exhibiting valuable paintings.
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a keen scholar and astrologer, built five astronomical observatories in different cities, the largest one being located in Jaipur. Popularly called Jantar Mantar (meaning instruments and calculations), the observatory is famous globally for its largest sundial. Built from 1728-1734, it is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and combines the aspects of religious, science, art and architecture in the most magnetizing manner. Each of the 14 geometrical instruments at the observatory is constructed using stone and marble. Apart from the sundial, which boasts of an accuracy of 2 seconds and is called Brihat Samrat, other popular instruments include Sasthamsa with four huge meridian dials, Jai Prakash sundial, Great Ram used for recording the azimuth of celestial bodies and Rasivalaya used for recording ecliptic co-ordinates of celestial bodies. Even today, the instruments are used for weather forecasting and probability of calamities like floods and famines. Astronomy students as well as astrologists from all over the world throng this wonderful tourist attraction.
Designated as India’s tallest clock tower, Husainabad Clock Tower is also known as Satkhanda Tower. Standing 221 ft. in a beautiful garden which also accommodates a small lake, the tower was constructed using gunmetal by the British architect Roskell Payne in 1887. The tower was erected to commemorate the visit of Sir George Cooper, the first Lieutenant Governor of Avadh and most of its components were imported from London. Portraying the beautiful Victorian-Gothic style of architecture, the tower has four dials counted among India’s largest. The pendulum with 14 ft. length and dials in the shape of a 12-petal flower are among the most striking features of the structure. The tower’s principal clock went silent few decades ago, but was recently repaired to preserve this glorious heritage structure. One can hear two gongs, one sounding every 15 min. and other after every hour. Located close to the bank of River Gomti, the clock tower is undoubtedly the Lucknow’s pride. One can also explore other fascinating heritage sites like Chhota Imambara and Bara Imambara nearby.
Qutub Minar, also known as Qutb Minar and Qutab Minar, is the tallest minar in India, originally an ancient Islamic Monument, inscribed with Arabic inscriptions, though the iron pillar has some Brahmi inscriptions, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Delhi, the Qutub Minar is made of red sandstone and marble. The tower has 379 stairs, is 72.5 metres (237.8 ft) high, and has a base diameter of 14.3 metres, which narrows to 2.7 metres at the top storey. Construction was started in 1192 by Qutub-ud-din Aibak and was completed by Iltutmish. It is surrounded by several other ancient and medieval structures and ruins, collectively known as the Qutub complex.
The most remarkable envoy of how the enthralling Mughal architecture flourished in the Indian subcontinent, Humayun’s Tomb is the resting place of Mugahl Emperor Humayun. Inspired by the Persian garden tomb architecture, it was constructed in the 16th century and was the first structure in India to use red sandstone and white marble at such large scale. No wonder that this incredible structure is considered as the precursor to Taj Mahal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb attracts huge numbers of tourists on everyday basis. The 47 m. high and 91 m. wide tomb was the first structure to have a double-layered dome. Superlative lattice work and intricate carvings along with many architectural elements inspired by the Indian schools of architecture make it an inimitable masterpiece. The tomb stands in a Persian style garden layout called Char Bagh. There are many other tombs and structures within the complex, the most notable ones being Barber’s Tomb, Isa Khan Tomb, Afsarwala Tomb, Arab Sarai and Nila Gumbad. Located on the bank of River Yamuna, Humayun’s Tomb is undoubtedly among the most glittering gems of India’s heritage.
The most popular church in Goa and one of the oldest in India, Basilica of Bob Jesus is dedicated to infant Jesus. The church holds special religious significance for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Representing baroque architecture at its best, the church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit on a trip to Goa. Marble floor is embedded with precious stones and there are some beautiful paintings depicting St. Francis’ life. The use of black granite and basalt lends unique worth to the outside architecture, while the interiors of the church are simple yet amusing. Decorated altars and the silver casket containing holy relics of the saint’s body are among other prime attractions. Bom Jesus Basilica Art Gallery in the premises is also worth visiting. In the year 2014, the body of St. Francis will be displayed for public viewing (a practice that takes place after every 10 years).
Banaras Hindu University, one of the oldest institutes in India, houses the very popular Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum which displays the best of Indian history, heritage and culture. There are many sections with exhibits ranging from beautiful paintings and religious artefacts to archaeological items and costumes and textiles. Manuscripts, jewellery items, bronze statues, decorative art items and materials related to Indian philosophy and literature are other highlights. Among many galleries is Nidhi Gallery (for which you need to pay addition fee), which houses rare items like coins, terracotta figures, precious and semi-precious stones, coins and royal antiques. Other galleries in the museum include Textile Gallery, Chhavi Gallery, Terracotta Gallery, Numismatic Gallery and Archaeological Gallery among others. Items at the museum belong to different eras, including Gupta Kingdom period, Mughal Era and others. The place allows wonderful exploration of India through different centuries. Warnings Video photography is prohibited. Permit and fee required for documentary shooting.
The iconic symbol of Mumbai’s Gothic City grandeur, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is an historic railway station serving as the headquarters for the Indian Railways’ Central branch. Constructed over the time span of 10 years from 1878-88, it was originally called Victoria Terminus to honour Queen Victoria. Portraying the wonderful blend of Victorian Italianate Gothic Revival architecture and Mughal palace architecture, the heritage building is a part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Apart from the exclusive architectural elements like domes, towers, spires, pointed arches and turrets, the building also boasts of ornamental work and splendid carvings and sculptures of animals like lion, tiger, peacock, elephant and snake. The use of colourful tiles and stained window glasses further enhance the glory of this architectural marvel. Visitors can access the areas like Heritage Gallery and Star Chamber and the Railway Museum featuring old railway crockery, furniture and telephones on guided tours that cost INR 200 per head (INR 100 for students). Timing for this guided tour is from 03:00 p.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Among the several colonial landmarks of Mumbai, Flora Fountain has something extremely graceful and attractive about itself. A masterpiece of New Classical and Gothic Revival architectural styles, it boasts of exquisite sculpted art with highest sense of old world charm. Dedicated to Flora, the Roman Goddess, the monument was built in 1864. Since then, it has a count among the heritage treasures which Mumbai proudly showcases to the world. It is indeed an eye-pleasing moment to view the fountain in actions after sunset. Numerous shopping venues and vendors in the close proximity attract the visitors. Flora Fountain is a part of the Hutatma Chowk which is surrounded by numerous heritage wonders like the Gateway of India, Central Telegraph Office, Old Secretariat and many specimen of British Victorian architecture. Spending a full day exploring the classic architecture is certainly fascinating.
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