India is a land of enchanting diversity, where history and culture intertwine to create famous landmarks in India that span centuries and regions.

From the iconic silhouette of the Taj Mahal against the backdrop of a rising sun to the bustling bazaars of Delhi’s Old City, India’s landscape is adorned with an array of landmarks that narrate its rich and storied past.

These landmarks in India not only stand as testaments to architectural brilliance but also serve as windows into the nation’s intricate history, spirituality, and traditions.

Famous Landmarks In India

Whether you’re an intrepid traveller, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in India’s vibrant heritage, the country’s landmarks beckon with a promise of discovery and wonder.

These are 20 of the most famous landmarks in India.

Taj Mahal – Agra, Uttar Pradesh

The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in India, located in Agra. It is renowned for its exquisite Mughal architecture and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings ever constructed.

History: The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth in 1631. Construction began in 1632 and took approximately 20 years to complete, finishing in 1653.

Architectural Style: The Taj Mahal is a prime example of Mughal architecture, a blend of Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. It is primarily made of white marble, with intricate inlays of semi-precious stones.

Design and Layout: The complex is a symmetrical and balanced structure, consisting of several key elements:

The main mausoleum houses the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

Four minarets, one at each corner of the platform surrounding the mausoleum.

A large garden with a central reflecting pool.

A red sandstone mosque and a red sandstone guesthouse on either side of the main structure, provide architectural balance.

The Taj Mahal is not only the most famous landmark in India but also one of the most famous landmarks in Asia.

Jaipur’s Pink City – Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur, often referred to as the “Pink City,” is the capital city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It earned this nickname due to the distinct pink-coloured buildings and structures that dominate its historic centre.

Origin of the Name: The Pink City’s name dates back to 1876 when Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh ordered the city to be painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and make Jaipur look more aesthetically pleasing. The pink colour is associated with hospitality and is meant to symbolize the warm welcome extended to guests.

Pink Buildings: To maintain the pink colour, a law was enacted that required buildings in the old part of the city to be painted in various shades of pink. This tradition continues today, and the city’s unique appearance remains a major attraction.

City Layout: The Pink City is part of Jaipur’s larger urban layout and contains many historical and cultural attractions. It is surrounded by a crenellated wall with several gates, including the famous Hawa Mahal or “Palace of the Winds,” which is a beautifully designed palace with numerous small windows and balconies.

Architecture: Jaipur’s Pink City is renowned for its splendid architectural heritage, including the City Palace, Jantar Mantar (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an astronomical observatory), and the Amber Fort, which is located just outside the city.

Varanasi Ghats – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and one of the holiest cities in India, is renowned for its ghats along the sacred Ganges River. These ghats are central to the spiritual, cultural, and social life of Varanasi.

Dasaswamedh Ghat: This is one of the most prominent and central ghats in Varanasi. It is known for the daily Ganga Aarti ceremony, which is a captivating ritual performed in the evening. Pilgrims and tourists gather here to witness the grand spectacle.

Assi Ghat: Located at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers, this ghat is a popular place for both religious rituals and recreational activities. It’s known for its serene ambience and is often frequented by yoga enthusiasts and travellers seeking tranquillity.

Manikarnika Ghat: This ghat is considered one of the holiest places in Varanasi. It’s where cremations take place 24 hours a day, as it is believed that cremating a body here leads to moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). Visitors can observe the cremation process from a distance.

Golden Temple – Amritsar, Punjab

The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is a renowned and sacred Sikh shrine located in Amritsar, Punjab, India. It is one of the most significant religious and cultural landmarks in India.

Historical Significance: The Golden Temple was founded by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, in the 16th century. It was later completed by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, in 1604. The temple holds immense historical and spiritual significance for Sikhs.

Architectural Splendor: The Golden Temple is a striking example of Sikh architecture. It is built on a platform in the centre of a sacred pool called the “Sarovar.” The temple’s main structure is adorned with marble and is covered in shimmering gold leaf, which gives it its distinctive appearance. The four entrances of the temple symbolize that people from all four corners of the world are welcome.

Harmandir Sahib: The name “Harmandir Sahib” translates to “the abode of God.” It reflects the temple’s primary purpose as a place of worship and meditation for Sikhs and all people seeking spiritual solace.

Mehrangarh Fort – Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Mehrangarh Fort is an iconic historical fort located in the city of Jodhpur, in the northwestern state of Rajasthan. It is one of the largest and most impressive forts in India, known for its grandeur, architecture, and panoramic views of the city and surrounding desert.

History: Mehrangarh Fort was built by Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, in 1459. It was constructed atop a steep hill to provide strategic advantages in defence against potential invaders.

Architectural Style: The fort is a fine example of Rajput architecture and craftsmanship. Its massive sandstone walls rise 400 feet above the city, making it an imposing structure. The intricate carvings and details on the fort’s palaces and gates are particularly noteworthy.

Gates: The fort has several ornate and historically significant gates, each with its own story and name. Notable gates include Jai Pol, Fateh Pol, Dedh Kamgra Pol, and Loha Pol, each with its unique architectural features and history.

Mehrangarh Fort is one of the best forts in India.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves – Maharashtra

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a group of ancient rock-cut cave complexes located in the state of Maharashtra, India. These cave systems are renowned for their exquisite architecture, intricate sculptures, and ancient Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religious art.

Ajanta Caves:

Location: The Ajanta Caves are situated in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, approximately 107 kilometres from the city of Aurangabad.

Time Period: The Ajanta Caves date back to the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE. They were created over several centuries and were primarily used as Buddhist monastic complexes.

Architecture and Art: The Ajanta Caves consist of 30 rock-cut caves, including prayer halls, monasteries, and chaitya halls. They are renowned for their stunning frescoes and intricate sculptures that depict various episodes from the life of Buddha, Jataka tales, and other Buddhist deities and motifs.

Ellora Caves:

Location: The Ellora Caves are located approximately 29 kilometres from Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

Time Period: The Ellora Caves are a more extensive complex, with a longer historical timeline. They were created between the 6th and 9th centuries CE, encompassing a broader range of religious traditions.

Architecture and Art: Ellora consists of 34 rock-cut caves that include Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples, making it a unique site where multiple religious traditions coexist. These caves feature impressive monolithic architecture, intricate carvings, and sculptures.

Kailash Temple: The Kailash Temple, also known as the Kailashnath Temple, is one of the most remarkable structures at Ellora. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is notable for being carved out of a single massive rock, making it one of the largest monolithic temple complexes in the world.

Hampi – Karnataka

Hampi is an ancient and historically significant city located in the northern part of the Iof Karnataka. It is renowned for its extraordinary ruins which are some of the most famous historic landmarks in India and its stunning landscapes.

Historical Significance: Hampi, also known as the “Group of Monuments at Hampi,” was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the most powerful and prosperous empires in South India during the 14th to 16th centuries.

Architecture and Monuments: The ruins of Hampi are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are spread over a vast area. They include grand temples, royal complexes, bazaars, fortifications, and other structures, all showcasing the empire’s architectural and artistic prowess.

Virupaksha Temple: The Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hampi. It is still in active worship and is known for its 160-foot-tall gopuram (tower).

Vijaya Vittala Temple: This temple is famous for its impressive stone chariot, intricate musical pillars that produce different musical notes when struck, and beautifully carved sculptures.

Hampi is one of the most historical places in Karnataka.

Qutub Minar – Delhi

Qutub Minar is a prominent historical monument located in Delhi. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is recognized for its historical and architectural significance.

History: Qutub Minar was built during the early 13th century by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, and later completed by his successors, including Iltutmish and Firoz Shah Tughlaq. It was constructed to celebrate the victory of Muslim rule over North India and to mark the establishment of their dominance.

Location: Qutub Minar is situated in the Qutub Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi. The complex also includes several other historical structures and ruins.

Architecture: Qutub Minar is a 73-meter (240-foot) tall tower made primarily of red sandstone and marble. It is a prime example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The tower is divided into five distinct stories, each adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari script.

Red Fort – Delhi

The Red Fort, also known as “Lal Qila” in Hindi, is an iconic historical monument located in the heart of Old Delhi. It is one of the most famous landmarks in India and holds immense historical and architectural significance.

History: The Red Fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century. Construction began in 1638 and was completed in 1648. It served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for approximately two centuries.

Architectural Style: The Red Fort is a prime example of Mughal architecture, known for its grandeur and intricate detailing. It is constructed primarily of red sandstone, which gives it its distinctive appearance. The fort’s design reflects a fusion of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles.

Layout and Features: The Red Fort is an imposing structure with walls that extend for about 2.5 kilometres. It is surrounded by a deep moat, which is now mostly dry. The fort has several notable features, including:

The Red Fort stands as a symbol of India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

Gateway of India – Mumbai, Maharashtra

The Gateway of India is a famous and iconic monument located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks and serves as a symbol of Mumbai’s rich history and architectural heritage.

History: The Gateway of India was built during the British colonial era to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai (then Bombay) in 1911. The foundation stone was laid in 1913, and the construction was completed in 1924.

Architectural Style: The monument is designed in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, which blends elements of Indian, Islamic, and European Gothic architectural styles. It features intricate detailing, including domes, arches, and decorative latticework.

Location: The Gateway of India is strategically located on the waterfront at Apollo Bunder in South Mumbai, overlooking the Arabian Sea. It stands as a ceremonial entrance to the city and is often the starting point for tourists visiting Mumbai.

Design and Structure: The monument is an arched gateway constructed from yellow basalt and reinforced concrete. It stands 26 meters (85 feet) tall and is adorned with four turrets and intricate motifs. It is flanked by two large ornamental lamps on either side.

Elephant Statues: Four bronze statues of elephants stand at the corners of the monument, adding to its grandeur.

Mysore Palace – Mysore, Karnataka

Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a magnificent and historic palace located in the city of Mysore, in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is one of the most famous and grandest palaces in India and is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

History: Mysore Palace has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century when a wooden palace stood on the same site. The current palace was constructed in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style in the late 19th century after the old palace was destroyed by fire.

Architectural Style: The palace is a spectacular example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, characterized by a fusion of Indian, Islamic, and European architectural elements. It features intricate detailing, large archways, domes, and ornate designs.

Location: The palace is situated in the heart of Mysore city, surrounded by a vast garden called the Palace Gardens or Amba Vilas Gardens.

Design and Structure: The palace is a three-story structure made of grey granite with pink marble domes. It has a magnificent facade with beautifully designed balconies, arches, and stained glass windows. The central archway, known as the Elephant Gate, is particularly striking.

Ajmer Sharif Dargah – Ajmer, Rajasthan

The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, also known as the Dargah Sharif of Ajmer, is one of the most revered Sufi shrines in India. It is located in the city of Ajmer in the northwestern state of Rajasthan.

The shrine is dedicated to Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a revered Sufi saint, and is an important pilgrimage site for people of various faiths.

History: The Dargah Sharif of Ajmer was built in the early 13th century, following the death of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in 1236. Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti was a prominent Sufi saint who is believed to have travelled to India from Persia and played a significant role in spreading Sufism in the Indian subcontinent.

Spiritual Significance: The shrine is considered one of the holiest Sufi shrines in India and is visited by people of various religious backgrounds, including Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and people of other faiths. It is a place of spiritual solace, where devotees come to seek blessings, offer prayers, and make offerings.

Architectural Style: The Dargah’s architecture is a blend of Mughal and Indo-Islamic styles. The main entrance is adorned with a magnificent Nizam Gate, which was constructed by the Nizam of Hyderabad.

Meenakshi Temple – Madurai, Tamil Nadu

The Meenakshi Temple, also known as the Meenakshi Amman Temple, is a renowned and ancient Hindu temple located in the city of Madurai, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu and is one of the most famous landmarks in India.

It is one of the most important and culturally significant temples in India and is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati) and her consort, Lord Shiva (in the form of Lord Sundareswarar).

History:

Ancient Origins: The Meenakshi Temple has a rich history dating back over two millennia. It is believed to have been originally constructed by the Pandya Dynasty in the 6th century BCE but underwent significant expansions and renovations over the centuries.

Legend: According to Hindu mythology, the temple is associated with the legendary wedding of Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. The temple’s name “Meenakshi” means “fish-eyed,” and it is believed to be derived from an incident in which Meenakshi was born with fish-like eyes.

Sanchi Stupa – Madhya Pradesh

The Sanchi Stupa is a group of ancient Buddhist monuments located in the town of Sanchi, in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. These monuments are among the most important and well-preserved Buddhist structures in India and are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History:

1. Origins: The Sanchi Stupa complex dates back to the 3rd century BCE and was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka, a powerful Mauryan ruler who converted to Buddhism and played a significant role in its spread.
2. Purpose: The main purpose of the Sanchi Stupa and other structures in the complex was to enshrine the relics of Lord Buddha. Stupas served as places of worship and pilgrimage for Buddhists.

Architectural Significance:

1. Great Stupa: The Great Stupa at Sanchi is the most prominent structure in the complex. It is a hemispherical dome-shaped monument that houses relics of Lord Buddha. The stupa has a central chamber, and its outer railing is adorned with intricately carved gateways (toranas).
2. Toranas: The toranas (ornate gateways) are some of the most renowned and beautifully carved elements of the Sanchi Stupa complex. They depict scenes from the life of Buddha, Jataka tales (stories of Buddha’s previous lives), and various decorative motifs.
3. Ashoka Pillar: The complex also includes an Ashoka Pillar, which bears inscriptions from Emperor Ashoka, providing historical information about his patronage of Buddhism and the construction of the stupa.

Victoria Memorial – Kolkata, West Bengal

The Victoria Memorial is a grand and iconic monument located in Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta), the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city and one of the most well-known landmarks in Indi. It’s a symbol of Kolkata’s historical and architectural heritage.

History and Background:

Commissioning: The Victoria Memorial was commissioned in honour of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom on her death in 1901. It was conceived by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India, as a tribute to the queen, who had been the Empress of India during her reign.

Architectural Inspiration: The memorial’s architecture draws inspiration from various historical architectural styles, primarily the Indo-Saracenic and Mughal architectural styles, which were popular during the British colonial era in India.

Lotus Temple – Delhi

The Lotus Temple, officially known as the Baha’i House of Worship, is a unique and striking architectural masterpiece located in New Delhi, the capital of India.

It is one of the most famous landmarks in the city and one of the most newly famous landmarks in India. It is renowned for its distinctive lotus flower-inspired design and its role as a place of worship for the Baha’i faith.

History and Significance:

Baha’i Faith: The Lotus Temple is a Bahá’í House of Worship, which means it is a place of worship for followers of the Bahá’í Faith. The Bahá’í Faith is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes the unity of all religions and the oneness of humanity.

Inspiration: The design of the Lotus Temple is inspired by the lotus flower, a symbol of purity and enlightenment in many cultures, including Hinduism and Buddhism. The lotus flower’s petals open in the sunlight, symbolizing the welcoming and inclusive nature of the Bahá’í Faith.

Charminar – Hyderabad, Telangana

Charminar is an iconic historical monument located in the heart of the city of Hyderabad, in the southern Indian state of Telangana. It is one of the most recognized and cherished landmarks in Hyderabad and holds significant historical and architectural importance.

History and Background:

Origins: Charminar, which translates to “Four Minarets” in Urdu, was built in 1591 by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the founder of Hyderabad. It was constructed to commemorate the end of a deadly plague in the city and to mark the founding of a new city.

Architectural Style: Charminar is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture, characterized by a fusion of Persian, Turkish, and Indian architectural elements. It combines elements of both Islamic and Hindu architectural styles.

Rann of Kutch – Gujarat

The Rann of Kutch is a vast seasonal salt marsh located in the state of Gujarat in western India. It is one of the largest salt deserts in the world and a unique and mesmerizing natural wonder making it one of the most famous natural landmarks in India.

Geography:

Location: The Rann of Kutch is situated in the Thar Desert region of western India. It spans parts of the Kutch district in Gujarat as well as portions of Sindh province in Pakistan.

Landscape: The landscape of the Rann is characterized by flat, arid, and white salt desert expanses that stretch as far as the eye can see. During the monsoon season, some areas are submerged, forming temporary saltwater lakes.

Sundarbans – West Bengal

The Sundarbans is a vast and unique mangrove forest located in the delta region of the Bay of Bengal, primarily within the Indian state of West Bengal and the neighbouring country of Bangladesh and is one of the best natural landmarks in India.

It is one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in the world and holds significant ecological and environmental importance.

Geography:

1. Location: The Sundarbans cover an area of approximately 10,000 square kilometres (3,900 square miles) and span across southern Bangladesh and the southern part of West Bengal in India.
2. Delta Formation: The Sundarbans are formed by the confluence of several major rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna, as they flow into the Bay of Bengal. The deltaic region is characterized by an intricate network of waterways, estuaries, and islands.

Mangrove Ecosystem:

Mangrove Forest: The Sundarbans are renowned for their extensive mangrove forest, which is adapted to thrive in brackish water conditions. These mangrove trees, including species like the Sundari tree (Heritiera fomes), provide a critical habitat for numerous species of flora and fauna.

Wildlife: The Sundarbans are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodile, Indian python, spotted deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird species. The Bengal tiger, often referred to as the “Sundarbans tiger,” is one of the most famous inhabitants of the region.

Western Ghats – Various states

The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Mountains, is a prominent and environmentally significant mountain range located along the western coast of India.

Stretching for approximately 1,600 kilometres (990 miles), the Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity in the world and one of the most famous natural landmarks in India.

Geography and Location:

Location: The Western Ghats run parallel to the western coast of India, covering several Indian states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

Eastern Boundary: The eastern boundary of the Western Ghats is marked by the Deccan Plateau, a high, flat landmass.

Physical Features:

Mountain Range: The Western Ghats consist of a series of parallel mountain ranges, hills, and plateaus. These hills are known for their steep escarpments and rugged terrain.

Highest Peaks: The highest peaks in the Western Ghats include Anamudi in Kerala (the highest in South India) and Kalsubai in Maharashtra.

Rivers: Numerous rivers originate from the Western Ghats, including the Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri, and Tungabhadra. The Ghats play a significant role in the hydrology of the Indian subcontinent.

Landmarks In India

These landmarks in India showcase incredible diversity and rich history, making it a fascinating destination for travellers from around the world.

For more reading on India, this is the best guidebook for the country: Lonely Planet India Travel Guide.

For more on travel in India take a look at my numerous guides to India.

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