Over 5000 years of civilization, India has produced some great historical sites, monuments, tales, and experiences. These monuments are incredibly intriguing, paying homage to the wonderful history and legacy. Numerous kings and emperors, kingdoms, and monarchies have created monuments for various causes from ancient to medieval times. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that historical sites in India attract many people. Every fort, palace, or temple, from the Taj Mahal to the ruins of Hampi, is an example of exceptional elegance and splendor.
If you’re a history buff or want to learn more about India’s rich culture, come explore some of the country’s most important heritage places! Explore some of the most picturesque spots in India and enjoy breathtaking sunset views. Check out this custom-made list of all the top and notable historical sites in India, which spans the entire country: This article will cover the top 20 famous historical monuments in India you must see in 2024.
Here are the top 20 Famous Historical Monuments in India
1. Red Fort, Delhi
The Red Fort, one of India’s ancient tourist attractions, was built ten years ago between 1638 to 1648. After Shah Jahan moved the capital from Agra to Delhi, he made this fort called the Qila-e-Mubarak. This octagon fort is among the most renowned historical sites in northern India, and it’s also where the President delivers his Independence Day speech. The Red Fort is magnificent and one of India’s top historical sites.
- Fact: The Red fort was white because it was composed of limestone. When the limestone began to break away, the British painted it crimson.
- Ticket Price: Indians- Rs. 10, Foreigners- Rs. 250
- Timings: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (It will be closed on Monday.
- Special Attractions: Rang Mahal (The Palace of Colors)
- Constructed By: Shah Jahan
2. Taj Mahal, Agra
Visit the Taj Mahal, the quintessential symbol of love, whose magnificence is unparalleled in history and is now one of Delhi’s weekend trips. Shah Jahan commanded the construction of this lavish white marble building for his deceased wife, Mumtaz Mahal, in 1632. It took approximately 22 years to create this majestic monument, considered one of India’s most famous historical monuments.
According to local mythology, Shah Jahan chopped the hands of all Taj Mahal laborers to prevent a comparable monument from being erected.
- Ticket Price: Indians- Rs. 40, Foreigners- Rs. 1000
- Timings: Opens 30 minutes before Sunrise and Closes 30 minutes before Sunset
- Special Attractions: Night Shows
- Constructed By: Shah Jahan
3. Qutub Minar, Delhi
With its beautiful red sandstone stories, it is one of the best examples of Indo-Muslim architecture. These are peppered with sculptures and Quranic passages, chiefly in Nagri and Arabic. Qutub Minar is a well-known historical site in India, and it is supposed to have been named after Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim monarch of North India. The Qutub Minar, also called the Triumph Tower, is the highest brick tower in the world, measuring 72.5 meters tall.
- Ticket Price: Indians- Rs. 10, Foreigners- Rs. 250
- Timings: 7 AM to 5 PM
- Special Attractions: Light Shows and the Qutub Minar Festival in Oct. and Nov.
- Constructed By: Qutb-ud-din Aibak
4. Agra Fort, Uttar Pradesh
Explore the fortified royal Agra Fort, one of India’s most famous historical monuments made entirely of red sandstone, to gain a taste of the great history of the Mughal Empire. This historical tourist attraction in India was built in 1565 by Akbar and featured two ornately crafted entrances: the Amar Singh Gate and the Delhi Gate. Only via the Amar Singh Gate can you discover a historic city teeming with gateways, courts, tunnels, palaces, and mosques. It is one of the most stunning tourist sites in Agra.
- Ticket Price: Indians- Rs. 40, Foreigners- Rs. 550
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Special Attractions: Nagina Mosque, Mina Bazaar (Market), Moti Mosque, and Jahangir Mahal
- Constructed By: Shah Jahan and Akbar
5. The Tomb of Humayun, New Delhi
Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, along the banks of the Yamuna, is one of India’s oldest historical places. In the 16th century, Sultan Humayun’s widow built this Tomb commemorating her husband, which is flanked by double-story gates and four courtyards and looks just incredible. It was also the nation’s first garden tomb.
This site comprises roughly 150 graves in addition to Humayun’s last resting place. Humayun’s Tomb is constructed of red sandstone and is designed in the Mughal style, with Persian elements.
- Ticket Price: Indians- Rs. 40, Foreigners- Rs. 510
- Timings: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Special Attractions: The Dormitory of the Mughals (Collection of 100 Tombs)
- Constructed By: Mirak Mirza Ghiyath
6. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur, Rajasthan
In contrast to being a notable icon of Rajasthan, the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur is among India’s most famous historical monuments. Hawa Mahal, a 5-story building dating from the 18th century, dominates Jaipur’s busy streets. It was built using Rajput, Mughal, and Islamic architectural styles.
The Hawa Mahal was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh so that the tiny windows allow breezes to enter the castle and keep it more relaxed during the scorching summers.
- Ticket Price: Indians- Rs. 10, Foreigners- Rs. 50
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Fridays Closed)
- Special Attractions: The Artwork on Windows
- Constructed By: Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh
7. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
The Victoria Memorial, located in Kolkata, is among India’s most famous historical monuments and tourist attractions, having been created at the height of the British period in India. Viceroy Lord Curzon proposed the concept for this monument, but William Emerson designed it. This famous historical monument was built in 1921.
This gorgeous monument has several beautiful gardens, a museum packed with British relics such as weaponry, artworks, sculptures, and antiques, and a regal picture of the Queen. One of the nicest paintings on display is by Russian painter Vasili Verestchagin.
- Ticket Price: Indians- Rs. 20, Foreigners- Rs. 200
- Timings: 5:30 AM to 6:15 PM (Everyday)
- Special Attractions: Black Statue of Angel of Victory
- Constructed By: Lord Curzon
8. Fatehpur Sikri, Agra
Fatehpur Sikri, a town in Uttar Pradesh’s Agra region, is a historical treasure and one of India’s most gorgeous historical destinations. Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, is built primarily of red sandstone & dates from the late sixteenth century when Mughal Emperor Akbar erected it.
This ancient city is one of India’s historically famous historical monuments and tourist destinations. It originally had castles, public buildings, mosques, and apartments for the monarch, troops, and servants. Furthermore, the well-planned royal metropolis with sculpted columns and ornate pillars was constructed between 1571 and 1573 AD and discontinued owing to a lack of water.
- Ticket Price: Indians- Rs. 40, Foreigners- Rs. 510
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (It will be closed on Friday.)
- Special Attractions: Diwan-e-Khas and Diwan-e-Aam
- Constructed By: Akbar
9. India Gate, New Delhi
India Gate is one of India’s most well-known and famous historical monuments. This sandstone-granite arched gate, an iconic symbol of Delhi, is among India’s most giant military monuments, surrounded by green gardens and lawns.
Edwin Lutyens designed it, and it is located on the Rajpath. It was constructed in 1931 and is devoted to the 82,000 men of both Indian and British heritage who participated in World War-I and the 13,300 warriors who were slain in the Third Anglo-Afghan War. The Republic Day Ceremony is conducted here every year. It is a well-known tourist and local destination.
- Ticket Price: Free for Everyone (Indians and Foreigners both)
- Timings: 24×7 (Open all the time)
- Special Attractions: Amar Jawan Jyoti
- Constructed By: Edwin Lutyens
10. Khajuraho Temple, Khajuraho
Khajuraho has been widely regarded as the pinnacle of sensuality and eroticism. Nevertheless, this is an exaggeration because only around 10% of the statues are sensual, with the remainder being conventional portrayals.
Numerous sculptures portraying love, timeless elegance, majesty, sensitivity, and the fine arts may be seen at one of India’s most famous historical monument locations. Khajuraho temples are a beautiful blend of Hinduism & Jainism, with sculptures of cult symbols.
- Ticket Price: Indian- Rs. 10, Foreigner- Rs. 250
- Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Special Attractions: The Light and Sound Shows
- Constructed By: Chandela Dynasty
11. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai
This gorgeous Hindu temple on the bank of the River Vaigai in Madurai focuses on seeking pleasant energies, positivism, and pure devotion. It is devoted to Parvati, also recognized as Meenakshi, & Shiva, her husband.
Appreciate the temple’s tremendous grandeur and marvel at its majestic construction with elaborate sculptures. It is one of India’s most well-known tourist destinations. Read More: Meenakshi Temple, Madurai Complete Travel Guide: How to Reach, History, Timings.
- Ticket Price: Free for all
- Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Special Attractions: Pillars and 14 Gateways
- Constructed By: Raja Kulasekara Pandya
12. Amer Fort, Jaipur
Amer Fort, located only 11 kilometers from Jaipur’s Pink City, is one of India’s oldest spectacular forts. It was constructed in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh.
Another UNESCO World Heritage famous historical monument in Rajasthan. It is an outstanding sight made of yellow and pink sandstone. About 5,000 people visit this fort daily, making it one of Jaipur’s most popular tourist attractions.
- Ticket Price: Indian- (Adults- Rs.25 and Students- Rs. 10), Foreigner- Rs. 200
- Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Special Attractions: Interior Designs and Ride of Elephant
- Constructed By: Raja Maan Singh- I
13. Charminar, Hyderabad
The Charminar was thought to have been constructed in 1591 to glorify Allah by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah. Nevertheless, this famous historical monument and tourist attraction in India was created to celebrate the end of the city’s epidemic.
According to legend, a secret tunnel connects the Charminar to the Golconda fort, although it has yet to be uncovered. This monument’s minarets have four floors, and each arch holds one clock.
- Ticket Price: Indian- 5, Foreigner- Rs. 100
- Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Special Attractions: Laad Bazaar and Artifacts Market
- Constructed By: Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah
14. Elephanta Caves, Mumbai
The Elephanta Caves, another of India’s finest historical sites, is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site situated on Gharapuri Island, about 11 km from Bombay.
These caverns, which date back to the medieval period and are considered one of the most stunning examples of rock-cut artwork and architecture, are now only the ruins of what were once complex artworks. Read More: Elephanta Caves, Mumbai: Best Time to Visit, How To Reach & Tips.
- Ticket Price: Indian- 10, Foreigner- Rs. 250
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Special Attractions: Mumbai Skyline’s great view.
- Constructed By: Hinayana Buddhists
15. Golden Temple, Amritsar
The world-famous Golden Temple is situated in the heart of Punjab, Amritsar. It is among India’s top 20 famous historical monuments in India.
The Golden Temple, also called Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the most important sacred place for Sikhs and emphasizes humanity, peace, and fraternity. Maharaja Ranjit Singh renovated it in 1830 with real gold and stone. Read more details: Golden Temple, Amritsar: Things To Do, Best Time To Visit, How To Reach.
- Ticket Price: No Charge, Open for all.
- Timings: It may change every month.
- Special Attractions: Amrit Sarovar
- Constructed By: Guru Ram Das
16. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Rao Jodha constructed it in 1459, one of India’s largest forts. The complex, which is located on a hill, has seven entrances. Each gate was built at a separate time for a particular reason. The Vijay Gate, for example, was constructed to commemorate King Man Singh’s victory against Bikaner and Jaipur.
Within the compound, there is a Rose Palace as well as a Glass Palace. This fort has also appeared in a lot of Bollywood and Hollywood films. It is standing atop a hill at an altitude of nearly 400 feet.
- Ticket Price: Indian- 70 (Excluded Audio Guide), Foreigner- Rs. 700 (Audio Guide Included)
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Special Attractions: Small Palaces and Seven Gates.
- Constructed By: Rao Jodha
17. Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar
With a tumultuous history, the Jallianwala Bagh also ranks among India’s top 20 Famous Historical Monuments in India. Jallianwala Bagh, located near the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, is a public area that has a monument commemorating the British slaughter of Hindus celebrating Baisakhi.
The Jallianwala Bagh spans 6.5 acres and is associated with one of the most tragic days in Indian history. A memorial plaque currently serves as a historical record at the park’s entrance.
- Ticket Price: Free for all
- Timings: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Special Attractions: The Well of the Massacre.
- Constructed By: Benjamin Polk
18. Ajanta & Ellora Caves
The Ajanta & Ellora Caves are situated near Aurangabad in Bombay. It is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and among India’s finest historical sites. These 29 caverns are filled with sculptures and paintings depicting Buddha and other Jataka stories. Read More: Top 10 facts about the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Maharashtra.
The 34 caves of Ellora were carved on the sides of a basaltic hill and combined three separate religions: Buddhism, Jainism, and Brahmanism. Seventeen Hindu caves, twelve Buddhist caves, and 5 Jain caves are there. The majority of these caverns were monasteries where people could worship and learn. Also, read Why The Ajanta Caves Are Famous: A Comprehensive Guide.
- Ticket Price: Indian- Rs. 10, Foreigner- Rs. 250
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Ajanta is closed on Mondays and Ellora on Tuesdays.)
- Special Attractions: Caves
- Constructed By: Vakataka, Sathvahans
19. Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh
Discover one of Buddhism’s most holy locations, the Sanchi Stupa, which holds Buddha relics. Lord Asoka created this important historical site in India for King Ashoka in the third century B.C.
The top of the Stupa represents the wheel of law, and this Stupa is regarded as a symbol of Buddha’s liberation, as well as the cycle of death and life. The Stupa’s four entrances depict themes from the Jataka stories and tales about Buddha’s life. Read More: Sanchi Stupa, Bhopal – History, Tickets, Timing, Nearby Attraction.
- Ticket Price: Indian- Rs. 10, Foreigner- Rs. 250
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Special Attractions: Ashoka Pillar
- Constructed By: Samrat Ashoka
20. Mysore Palace, Mysore
The Mysore Palace, situated in the city of Mysore, boasts the great Indo-Saracenic architectural style and is among the country’s most prominent historical attractions.
The palace was the previous abode of the royal dynasty of Mysore, complete with great domes, lawns, arches, castles, and arcades. The pavilion within the temple, which is used to hold royal marriages, is decorated with ceramic tiles, lights, and iron columns. Read Also: 7 Must Things to Visit in Mysore Palace.
- Ticket Price: Indian- Rs. 40. Foreigner- Rs. 200
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Holiday Closed)
- Special Attractions: Light Shows during Dussehra
- Constructed By: Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV
Conclusion
Historical sites are a treasure mine of knowledge that preserves a country’s unique cultural legacy and heritage. You must visit these locations to appreciate their beauty and learn about their history. Traveling allows us to unwind while also expanding our understanding. We have listed the top 20 famous historical monuments of India above. Thus, head out and discover India’s different culturally rich historical sites.
Discover this amazing country’s variety and some stunning architectural splendor. These structures, from beautifully adorned windows to enormous sculptural monuments, showcase creative talent at their finest. On your vacation in India, immerse yourself in historic landmarks and classical civilizations as you experience lively Indian history.
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