India is the country with evidence of the lost civilizations like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro. We have the greatest epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. So, it is quite obvious that we have historical places throughout the country. Our land has seen invaders and how they have merged into our culture and we get a rich heritage throughout the country.
It is really difficult to make one list of the best historical places in India as each of them are significant. Still, we have picked the best ones and served you for your benefit. If you are a history buff or not, visiting these places will show you the valor and glory of our country. These places are spectacular in beauty, elegance, architecture, and everything. Read on to know more-
List of 12 Historic Places In North India That You Should Visit:
1. Taj Mahal
To begin the list of the best historical places in North India, there is no better place than the Taj Mahal in Agra. Apart from being the best example of ethereal beauty, the Taj Mahal is also the epitome of eternal love in the pages of history. Being one of the seven wonders in the world, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal, between 1631 and 1648.
Constructed completely of white marble, the Taj Mahal is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. This is one of the most visited tourist attractions where you will find a mixed crowd of countrymen and foreigners.
2. Red Fort
Let’s move to Delhi, one of the most historical places in India. From the time of Kurukshetra till date, Delhi has been the center of historical changes, seen by the entire country. Red Fort is a historical fortification in Delhi, constructed by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan.
This historical monument was built in 1639 when Shah Jahan moved the capital of India from Delhi to Agra. The name of the building came from the red sandstone construction and it was built as the main residence for the Mughal emperors. With so many historical incidents associated with it, Red Fort was regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
Later, it was turned into a political center of the Mughal Dynasty. Presently, it has been turned into a museum with lots of precious artifacts on display. Red Fort has prominent significance in the history of India as after independence, each year, the Prime Minister unfurls the national flag on Independence Day.
3. Qutub Minar
With a height of 234 feet, this minaret is still carrying the charisma of the Mughal Empire and the brilliance of Mughal Architecture. This is the tallest building in the world, located in the Mehrauli area of Delhi. This tower has immense historical significance as it denotes the end of the Hindu empire in Delhi by Qutub-Ud-Din-Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate.
The base of the construction was started by him in 1192 and it was continued by his son-in-law and successor, Iltutmish. Later, the fourth and fifth stories were built by Firoz Shah Tughlak.
4. India Gate
The All India War Memorial or popularly known as India Gate is located on the Rajpath of New Delhi. This monument was built to commemorate the 82,000 Indian and British soldiers who were martyrs in the First World War and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.
There are 13,300 names of the servicemen in the Indian Army inscribed on the surface of India Gate. Also, it houses the Amar Jawan Jyoti, structured under the arch of India Gate. The sight of India Gate is awe-inspiring during the Republic Day Parade on 26th January, every year.
5. Amber Fort
Located atop a hill near Jaipur, Amber Fort of Amer Fort is one of the most marvelous palaces in India. This majestic building holds the history of the Rajputs and their royalty to date. Once you are here, you will be mesmerized by the serpentine staircases and the maze-like passages are the epitome of Rajasthani architecture.
Built-in 1592 by one of the most favorite counsels of Emperor Akbar, Maharaja Mansingh, this magnificent fort is clad in yellow and pink sandstone and looks ravishing under the bright sun. The palace is so huge that it takes nearly three hours to explore every bit. Tourists enjoy having elephant rides up the stairs of the fort. Regarded as UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fort is known as one of the most famous ‘Hill Forts of Rajasthan’.
6. Agrasen ki Baoli, Delhi
Located on Halley Road, New Delhi, Agrasen ki Baoli is one of the most ancient step-wells in India. This ancient water reservoir seems to come up from the earth and stands on the top of 103 stone steps. It is said that this water reservoir was built during the time of the Mahabharata. Till now, the baoli serves the old purpose as the bottom of it often gets filled with water.
But, it is not only popular only because of its historical value, but Agrasen ki Baoli is considered one of the most haunted places in India. There is a myth that the water of the baoli has an evil charm on the visitors if they stay after dusk. In the earlier time, it is said that the water was used to cast dark spells on people to commit suicide. Want to explore the place once?
7. Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh
Its also known as the City of Victory; Fatehpur Sikri is believed to have been constructed to provide luxury and leisure for Akbar, the Mughal Emperor Akbar.
The site is home to the Buland Darwaza (lofty gateway) and tombs, mosques with an elephant tower, and the drum house used by drummers to signal the coming of the Emperor. The site is home to Pachisi Court, and there’s an area designated for the human model of Ludo!
8. Agra Fort, Agra
Agra Fort is an architectural marvel of the Mughal Dynasty. It was built by Emperor Akbar in 1573. Located on the right bank of River Yamuna, Agra Fort is entirely built of red sandstone. Till 1638, this fort was used for residential purposes by the Mughal Emperors.
Once you are here, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of Mughal art and architecture. There are exquisite structures to attract tourists, like Pearl Mosque, Jahangiri Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, and Jahangiri Mahal. The view of River Yamuna and Taj Mahal from the pavilion of Agra Fort is breathtaking.
9. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
Built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799, Hawa Mahal stands at the intersection of Jaipur main road. It is the unique structure of Hawa Mahal with lots of small windows through which cool wind used to soothe the royalties at that time. The structure of Hawa Mahal is unique as it is made of red and pink sandstone that looks amazing.
Also, the pyramid-like structure of this magnificent edifice has made it absolutely different than other historical palaces of Jaipur. Hawa Mahal was made in such a way so that the women of Rajput families can enjoy the festivities on the street while staying away from the public eye, as per norms of royalty. There are 953 small windows, known as ‘Jharokha’ are outstanding with remarkable latticework on them.
10. Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi
Located in New Delhi, Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, and it inspired numerous architectural innovations, including the Taj Mahal. Known as the “dormitory of the Mughals”, the tomb is the resting place of over 150 Mughal family members.
11. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya
If you are traveling to Bodh Gaya, Mahabodhi Temple is one of the main tourist attractions of the place. Mahabodhi Temple is built in the area where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple is 55 meters long and spread across 4.8 hectares.
You will also find the Bodhi Tree to the left of the temple which is believed to be the direct descendant of the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. It is said that the actual temple was built by King Ashoka in 260 BC and later, the new temple replaced the old one between the 1st and 2nd Centuries.
12. Golden Temple, Amritsar
While talking about the best historical places in North India, Golden Temple is one of the most prominent ones. Our country has a glorious history of secularism and the story behind the Golden Temple proves it. The foundation of the temple was laid by a Muslim saint, Hazrat Mian Mir Ji and later, Guru Arjan Sahib designed the shrine on the foundation.
Surrounded by Amrit Sarovar, the glistening golden temple is a bliss to watch. Once you are here, you will feel religious and peaceful as the atmosphere is so pure and pious. The architectural wonder is astounding as you can find the perfect amalgamation of Muslim and Sikh styles of architecture.
These are some of the places we have mentioned here. These are only in North India. A historical country like India has evidence of a glorious past throughout the country and it will not be enough to finish in a lifetime. Enjoy visiting these places and show respect for our culture and history.
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