23 monuments found
Mentioned adequately in the Hindu mythology and historical records as Siddhapuri, Jajmau is a suburb of Kanpur City and is well-known for its leather industry. The place attracts flocks of tourists to its archaeological sites from where artefacts dating back to 600 BC have been discovered. Located on the bank of River Ganga, Jajmau mound is believed to be the capital of powerful King Yayati who ruled the place thousands of years ago. During excavations at various sites in Jajmau, artefacts belonging to Painted Grey Ware Culture and pre-Northern Black Polished Ware were discovered that can be explored at a museum in Kanpur. Mud bricks, burnt bricks, red ware pottery, ivory and terracotta seals, vases and coins are some of these excavated items. Visiting these sites is a thrilling experience. Jajmau is also an important pilgrimage place for Hindus and Muslims. Temples of Siddhnath and Siddha Devi, sacred shrine (mausoleum) of Sufi Saint Makhdoom Shah Ala-ul-Haq and Kulich Khan Mosque are among the holy places visited by ardent devotees round the year.
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.
Allahabad Fort has been the witness to the golden Indian history from the times of Emperor Ashoka to the rule of Mughal Emperor Akbar. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its superlative architecture and craftsmanship. Located on the bank of River Yamuna, the fort accommodated attractions in the form of palaces, royal enclosures and one of the pillars Ashoka erected during his reign. An old banyan tree called Akshayavat that is visible from the outside of the fort wall is believed to be the tree of immortality. Another highlight is a well known as Saraswati Koop which is considered to be the point of origination of the mythological River Saraswati. Huge towers and massive gateways justify the strength of this great medieval structure. A good idea is to ride a boat on River Yamuna and have the magnificent views of the fort. Warnings: The fort is in use by the Indian Army and it is strictly prohibited to visit many of the sections.
The divine intention of spreading awareness about Lord Krishna around the world, Swami Prabhupada established the first ISKCON Temple at Vrindavan in 1975. Also known as Sri Krishna Balarama Temple, it is a marvellous white marble structure housing magnetizing idols of Krishna and Balarama, Krishna and Radha and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The temple complex also houses the Samadhi of Prabhupada which is another enticing white marble structure. Clean and well-maintained courtyards and beautiful paintings depicting Lord Krishna’s life adorn the temple complex. The atmosphere stays overwhelmed with uninterrupted chanting of ‘Hare Krishna’ and hymns dedicated to the lord. One can see local women in a courtyard busy in preparing garlands and flower decorations for the temple. Don’t miss the delicious prasadam and food served within the complex. The temple is stunningly decorated on the occasions like Janamashthmi and other Hindu festivals.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the India’s most famous Hindu temples located in the holy city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Known as one of twelve Jyotirlingas, the temple is regarded as the epicenter of all the karmic activities. Standing proudly on the western bank of the holy river Ganga, this temple is visited by millions of visitors from around the world, every year. The temple is decked like a new bride on the occasion of Mahashivratri. During the month of Saawan the temple and nearby areas shine like a pearl. In order to visit the temple, one has to pass through the glittering Vishwanath Gali. The gali is popular in Varanasi for affordable shopping. Other nearby attractions include, New Kashi Vishwanath Temple (located in Banaras Hindu University campus), Alamgir Mosque, Annapurna Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Ramnagar and the 5 important ghats.
One of the 19 surviving pillars erected by Emperor Ashoka way back in the 3rd century BC, the one at Sarnath is the most popular one. Ruined in power struggles, the pillar has only the base left at its original site and is known as Ashoka Column. The Lion Capital that was originally mounted at the top is now exhibited at the nearby Sarnath Archaeological Museum. The pillar was erected by Ashoka to mark his visit to Sarnath, at the site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Formerly believed to be some 50 m. high, today the base stands only about 15 m. high. The key highlights are the four animals illustrated on this sandstone pillar. These include elephant, bull, horse and lion, each of great significance in Buddha’s journey. The Lion Capital, consisting of four Asiatic lions standing back to back on an inverted lotus flower, inspire India’s National Emblem, while the chariot wheel (dharma-chakra) can be seen in the centre of the Indian National Flag.
Considered to be the symbol of morality, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the only two burning Ghats in the holy city of Varanasi. The Ghat represents both creation (life) and destruction (death). The Cakra-Pushkarini Kund created by Lord Vishnu brings glory to the Ghat. Famous for its serene environment, Manikarnika Ghat is believed to be the holiest spot in Varanasi to attain salvation. According to a Hindu belief, the burning of dead bodies is the religious way to attain Moksha (salvation). Attracts numerous visitors every year, the cremations performed by Doms on the Ghat is quite popular among foreigners. Other nearby attractions includesHarishchandra Ghat, Vishwanath Galli, Tulsi Ghat, Alamgir mosque, Vishwanath Temple Benares Hindu University, and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
JK Temple of Kanpur is nothing short of magic personified. The pure white structure blends ancient and modern temple architectural styles borrowed from North and South India regions. Locally, the temple is also known as Sri Radhakrishna Temple and has five shrines dedicated to Radha and Krishna, Lakshmi and Narayan, Ardhanarishwar, Narmadeshwar and Hanuman. The temple with high ceilings and impressive light and ventilation systems remains occupied with the devotees throughout the year. Built by the J.K. Trust funded by a prestigious industrialist family (Singhanias) of the country, the temple came into life in 1960. A small garden and a beautiful lake add to the temple’s grandeur. It is worth visiting the temple after sunset when it is magnificently lit up. Temple’s environment is completely relaxing and boasts of soul-touching mysticism. Strict security check procedures are deployed at the entrance and items like mobile phones, cameras and purses are prohibited.
Undoubtedly the most picturesque ghat (river bank) in the holy city of Varanasi, Dashashwamedh Ghat bustles with numerous activities right from the crack of dawn. Offering stupendous views of the sacred River Ganga (Ganges), the ghat has many mythological and historical tales associated with it. According to the most popular one, it is the place where Lord Brahma performed Ashwamedh Yajna and sacrificed ten (das) horses (ashwa). The most invigorating highlight of the ghat is the evening aarti (prayer) dedicated to Goddess Ganga, God Sun, God Agni (fire) and Lord Shiva. Local priests use huge lamps and chant sacred mantras, while devotees in huge numbers too follow with small lamps. The whole ghat glitters like a galaxy and the atmosphere is filled with immense mysticism. Activities like bathing in the holy waters, religious rituals and birth and death rituals can be seen performed at the ghat. One can also enjoy the attractive views of the ghat while boating on the river. Many popular attractions, including Vishwanath Temple, Jantar Mantar Observatory and Mata Sitla Temple, near the ghat are worth visiting.
A walled city in itself, Agra Fort on the right bank of River Yamuna served as a prominent stronghold of the Mughal imperial heads few centuries ago. Gigantic ramparts, bastions, towers, facades and gateways elaborate the strength and glory of this red sandstone marvel. The structures in the monument signify the passion of Mughal emperors towards art and architecture. Halls, pavilions, palaces, mosques, towers, thrones and gardens adorn the fort. Also known as the Red Fort of Agra, this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buildings representing the Bengal and Gujarat schools of architecture are completely astounding. The old world charm and invigorating tales of the fort keep the visitors engrossed throughout the trip. Agra Fort is just few minutes away from other architectural wonders of Agra, including Taj Mahal, Sikandra, Chini ka Rauza and Fatehpur Sikri. Warnings Eatables, arms, ammunitions, liquor, smoking items, electronic and electrical items (except camera) are prohibited. Don’t make noise or scratch the walls and keep the mobile phones switched off.
A magnificent piece of architecture basking in its centuries old glory, Chhota Imambara is the pride of Lucknow. Also known as Hussainabad Imambara, this fascinating monument was built by Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah under his food for work campaign to help the local people fight famine. Later, it served as the mausoleum for the Nawab and his family members. With its brass dome and numerous white turrets and minarets, the monument earned the designation of ‘Kremlin of India’ from a Russian prince. Special festive decorations earn it the title of Palace of Lights. Arabic calligraphy, inimitable glass work, globe-shaped lamps and collection of Belgian chandeliers are indeed the main highlights of the structure constructed in Persian and Indo-Islamic architectural styles. Other key attractions include a four-storey tower called Satkhanda, fluted pillars, ornamental candle stands, silver mimbar, gold framed-mirrors and a royal throne. A mosque is also located within the complex where non-Muslims are restricted to enter.
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.
Archaeological Survey of India maintains numerous site museums across the country, one at Sarnath being the oldest one. Dedicated to the riches of Buddhist culture, the museum displays collections dating way back from the 3rd century BC and 12th century AD. Sculptures, Buddha images, artefacts and edifices associated with Buddhism and many powerful dynasties like Mauryas and Guptas. Ashoka’s Lion Capital is indeed one of the prime attractions. Other highlights of the museum are touch-screen information kiosks, museum shop and coffee shop within the premises. The museum has special amenities for physically challenges visitors and these include wheelchairs and ramps, Braille descriptions and restroom. One can also visit the archaeological sites and other tourist attractions in Sarnath, including Buddhist stupas and viharas, Ashoka Pillar and Jain Temples. Warnings: Don’t make noise and don’t touch the exhibits.
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 Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, a majestic structure which clearly distinguishes the two phases of Mughal architecture, stands unaffected by the signs of aging. When in Agra, you get completely enthralled by the sheer architectural brilliance of the grand structures all around and this tomb is certainly among the top-rankers. Built entirely in white marble and adorned exquisitely with semi-precious stones like jasper, onyx, topaz and cornelian, it is believed to be the inspiration for Taj Mahal. Built from 1622-1628, the tomb is the burial place of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, an important minister and father-in-law of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Beg was bestowed upon with the title of ‘Itamad-ud-Daulah’, which means ‘the pillar of the state’ by Jahangir. The breathtakingly beautiful structure stands on the bank of River Yamuna and is surrounded by the Persian-style Mughal gardens. The entrance gateway to the structure is a massive red sandstone structure, a marvel in itself. From a distance, the tomb appears as a jewel box and offers soul-touching appearance with hexagonal towers at each of the four corners. If the exteriors leave the visitors awe-struck, the interiors of the tomb are unbelievably captivating. Stuccos and paintings representing trees, wine bottles, fruits and vases and intricately designed screens promise outstanding treat to the eyes. In the centre are the cenotaphs of Mirza Ghiyas Beg and his wife. Don’t visit the place in a hurry as you would like to spend hours exploring it fully.
An architectural marvel, Bara Imambara is astonishing in design and a real visual treat to the eyes. The main attraction of the structure is its 170 feet long hall which stands at the height of 55 feet from the ground without being supported by beams or girders. Because of its gravity-defying construction, the monument is counted among the most amazing arched constructions of the world. Another noteworthy attraction of this place is its dark maze, popularly called bhul-bhulaiya, with hundreds of labyrinthine passages and 489 identical doorways. It can be thrilling to get lost in the maze and find the way out. The complex also houses attractions like Asfi Mosque and a fascinating step well. Also called Asafi Imambara after Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, who ordered its construction, the monument also houses tombs of Asaf and Kifayat-Ullah, the chief architect of this wonder. It is believed that there are secret tunnel passages here that can take one to places as far as Delhi.
Counted among the most ancient Buddhist structures, Chaukhandi Stupa is one superlative tryst as one enters the historic and spiritual town of Sarnath. The red brick structure with square edifice has an octagonal tower of Islamic style at its top. Built in around 5th century to honour Lord Buddha’s first meeting with his first five disciples, it is among the top sites on various Buddhist pilgrimage circuits. The Islamic tower was added later on the orders of Emperor Akbar to honour his father Emperor Humayun. The lavishly green lawns and inimitable tranquillity surrounding the structure are the striking aspects sure to engage your senses. There are many other Buddhist structures located in the close proximity to the stupa. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the stupa also has the ASI museum located nearby. Visitors are expected to respect the religious sentiments associated with this heritage treasure.
Constructed in 1875, the Memorial Church of Kanpur honours the British who were killed during the revolt called Siege of Cawnpore (Kanpur) that took place in 1857 and was a part of the first rebellion against colonial rule in India. The Indian mutineers, under Nana Sahib (tagged as the Butcher of Cawnpore), indulged into bloodshed with the British army men, not sparing even the latter’s families. The church was constructed at the same site by the name of All Souls’ Cathedral. Exhibiting Lombardic Gothic architecture, the church is famous for its bright red bricks and stained glasses that render it with outstanding magnificence. A beautiful garden, separated from the main building by an interestingly carved gothic screen, houses a fascinating statue of an angel with crossed arms and holding the symbol of peace, pylons. Tablets in the interior of the church and the cemetery with graves of many who lost their lives are other highlights.
Dudhwa National Park, along with wildlife sanctuaries of Kishanpur and Katarniaghat, form the world-famous Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, a distinguished home to the royal Bengal tigers and many other wild species. Located at the Himalayas’ foot near Indo-Nepal border, it represents a Terai ecosystem. Swamp deer (barasingha) is another popular attraction of the park, which also accommodates species like Indian rhinoceros, spotted deer, sloth bear, leopard cat and crocodiles among others. Species like hispid hare, earlier though to be extinct, also find home here. In addition, Dudhwa is home to more than 450 avifauna species, some of them being sarus-cranes, minivets, barbets, woodpeckers, kingfisher, storks, drongo, hornbills, herons and Bengal florican. It is a treat to explore the park’s luxuriant greenery, including grasslands, swamp forests, dry deciduous forests and more. There is no dearth of marshlands, lakes, streams and rivers adorning the huge canvas. Guided jungle walks are the exhilarating expeditions through the forest. You must not miss the elephant safari which costs INR 600 for 4 people. Safari can also be done in jeeps and canters. Tribal village walk and attractions like Frog Temple and Surat Bhawan Palace add to the place’s grandeur.
Constructed as British Resident General’s residence in the beginning of the 19th century, British Residency witnessed the unfortunate incident of the First Independence War of India in 1857. Located near the bank of River Gomti, it is a popular monument in the form of ruins which portray the signs of the infamous Siege of Lucknow in which over 2,000 British soldiers and their family members were killed. Today, the Residency accommodates a museum with main highlights in the form of gold coins and paintings. An old dungeon and a nearby cemetery are other important sights of this monument. Kaisarbagh Palace, an astronomical observatory and tombs of Nawabs are also located nearby.
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