India is a country full of the rich culture and heritage that attracts many tourists towards itself. Altogether there are numerous historical places in India covering all statues, old monuments, relics thumbs, do list places, tomb, tourist places, etc., which marks the presence of visitors from both international countries and other Indian cities. From the rule of the Mughals and British Raj, the country offers you with a wide variety of places you could explore in order to expand your knowledge and learn more about the culture, religion and tradition of India.
Here is a list of top 15 must-visit historical places in India, if you want to know more about this country. All these places have their significance and importance for Indians. Some may be old monuments that redefine the story of love, rule, and death; whereas monuments have their religious significances.
Popular Historical Places in India with Images:
1. The Taj Mahal:
Taj Mahal, the ‘monument of love’, is one of the best and the most visited historical places in north India. This ivory white marble mausoleum is situated on the south bank of Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built this historical monument for his beloved wife, Mumtaz. This love monument also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan and includes a mosque, guest house, and beautiful gardens bounded on the three sides.
- Interesting Facts: The architecture and the calligraphy on Taj Mahal are the centers of attraction besides its beauty. Besides, Taj Mahal was built by 22,000 laborers, stone cutters, painters including 1000 elephants that transported the materials to the construction sites.
- Ideal Time to Visit: it is advised to visit this place during winters, from October to March.
- Timings: Taj Mahal opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset on regular days and remains closed on Fridays. You can also visit Taj Mahal during night hours (8.30 pm to 12.30 am).
- Entry Fees: For foreign tourists: 1100 INR exclusive to the entry fees of the mausoleum (200 INR), whereas for the citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries entry fees are 540 INR with an option 200 INR entry fees for the mausoleum. Lastly, for the Indians, the entry fees account to 50 INR + 200 INR (optional) for the mausoleum. Additionally, there are no entry fees for the children below 15 years.
2. The Golden Temple:
The Golden Temple has been recognized as the pride of Punjab. This is one of the most famous tourist attractions and has more than thousands of devotees, tourists and local visitors every year. It is the oldest shrine of the Sikh religion and has a beautiful pool named “Amrit Sarovar”. Since the dome is painted in gold, this place looks attractive and dazzling especially under the morning sun. This is definitely the first place you should visit on your trip to Punjab.
- Interesting Facts: Entire top of this religious monument is made from pure gold, and the Human made Lake surrounding the temple is loaded with lots of exotic fishes. Additionally, the Langer served by this temple is consumed by up to 2,00,000 people during special religious events.
- Ideal Time to Visit: The best time to visit Amritsar is from November to March. The pleasant weather will offer you perfect sightseeing of Golden Temple. However, sometimes the temperature can be as freezing as -4 degree Celsius.
- Timings: This religious place opens at 3 am and remains open for everyone till 10 pm.
- Entry Fees: There is no entry fees for the devotees in the house of God!!
3. Jallianwala Bagh:
Jallianwala Bagh of Punjab is not just a garden but also holds special significance in the history of India’s independence. This was the location where thousands were killed at the hands of the British soldiers in the year 1919. A memorial was built in the year 1951 in honour of those who sacrificed their lives for their motherland. This place holds special historical significance and should definitely be visited once. It will help you understand Indian history in the pre-independence era in a much better way. No wonder it has thousands of visitors every year.
- Interesting Facts: General Dyer planned an attacked at Jallianwala Bagh place during a function, where 10,000 people gathered, irrespective to their religion. This massacre happened on 13th April 1919, and facts revealed that around 1500 people died in this event.
- Ideal Time to Visit: There is no perfect time for this; you are free to visit this place around the year!! However, depending on the weather, it is recommended to visit Amritsar in between September to December and February to March.
- Timings: This place remains opens from 6 am to 7 pm during summers, whereas, for the winters, the timing changes from 7 am to 6 pm.
- Entry Fees: The entry in this monument is entirely free, as it witnesses the history of independent India.
4. Badami Caves:
The Badami Caves is one of the famous historical places in south India. And it is located in the Bagalkot district of Northern Karnataka. This historical place reflects the perfect example of Indian rock-cut architecture, from the 6th century. This place has four caves, and each cave has its significance. Cave 1 showcases the dancing scriptures of Tandava dance of Shiva, as Natraj. Cave 2 is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is represents Lord Vishnu’s presence in the form of ‘Trivikrama.’ Cave 3 features lord Vishnu related mythology in the way of craving art. Lastly, the cave 4 marks the existence of figures associated with Jainism.
- Interesting Facts: History revealed that Chalukyas built this historical monument; and was initially named as Vatapi. This monument is also equipped with an artificial lake, the Agastyatirtha reservoir, which gathers the water of ravine in Badami.
- Ideal Time to Visit: Ideal time to visit this from July to March.
- Timings: One can visit Badami cave temples in between 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 pm to admire its real beauty during the daylight.
- Entry Fees: For Indians and SAARC & BIMSTEC, the entry fee is 15 INR, whereas, for the foreigners, entry fees account to 200 INR. However, the children below 15 years of age are free to visit this place without any charges!
5. Khajuraho Temples:
Though Khajuraho is considered as the city of temples, it is definitely far beyond than religion and worshipping the Gods and Goddesses. The architecture is brilliant and every single image has been made with such precaution and care. This place has been one of the top most visited temples all over the country. It is located in Madhya Pradesh in the Chattarpur District. It is now a UNESCO heritage site and has attracted a number of architects and students. The temple is famous mostly because of the erotic sculptures that were made centuries ago.
- Interesting Facts: The name of the city is derived from the Hindi word ‘ Khajur’ (dates), as the date Palms surround the city walls. Initially, the town was named as Khajjurpura, which was later changed to Khajuraho. This monument was built between 950 to 1050 AD and was initially reported to have 85 temples, which now accounts to 22 temples left after natural calamities.
- Ideal Time to Visit: The perfect time to visit this historical monument is from July to March. However, and your trip from October to February, as winters are considered suitable for outdoor tourist activities.
- Timings: The entry to this temple can be made from the sunrise until just before the sunset.
- Entry Fees: For Indian and SAARC & BIMSTEC tourists, the entry fees are 40 INR; whereas the international visitors have to pay an entry fee of 600 INR. Additionally, the children below 15 years of age are free to acknowledge history!!
6. Belum Caves:
The Belum Caves is the longest cave located in Andhra Pradesh. They are about 110 kilometers away from Kurnool and are some of the most prestigious and well-known caves of the country. These are underground caves that have been constructed under an agricultural field and possess three cavities out of which one of them serves as the main entrance. The Belum Caves is one of the most attractive locations of India and has been called the “Unique Eco-Tourism Project” by the Government of India.
- Interesting Facts: This place witnesses the presence of Buddhists monks. Altogether there are 16 different Pathways to enter the Caves. It also has been natural underground caves formed due to the constant flow of underground water. It is also and titles with the second largest natural caves in India after KremLiatPrah caves in Meghalaya.
- Ideal Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kurnool is from October till March, as the recent weather will not exhaust your trip.
- Timings: Belum Caves remains open from 10 in the till 5 in the evening.
- Entry Fees: For the international tourist, the entry fees account to 300 INR; whereas for the Indians it is cut down to 50 INR. The entry fees for a child is 30 INR.
7. Karla Caves:
The Karla Caves are located in Lonavla, which is a hill station near Pune of Maharashtra. It was built by Buddhist monks about centuries ago and is truly a strong representation of the Buddhist architecture. The intricate carvings have been preserved even after so many years and are some of the historical places that our country is so proud of. It is about 160 feet high to the top and about 15 meters high. These caves are a great evidence of the great Buddhist teachings and ideologies. The setup as and inscriptions here are mind-blowing.
- Interesting Facts: This historical monument features one of the largest rock-cut prayer halls in India, measuring around 46 feet in height and 148 feet in length. This place gets brightened with the natural light source, as huge windows are being saved on the rocks.
- Ideal Time to Visit: The best time to visit Karla caves is from October to February. However, one can also plan their trip during monsoons, i.e., June to October.
- Timings: To witness this Rock cut caves it is suggested that you make your moves in between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Entry Fees: The entry fees for Indian is around 20 INR; whereas the foreigners have to pay 200 INR for the same. The entry for children below 15 years of age is free. Besides, the tourist also has to pay for the still camera or handy cam, which is around 25 INR.
8. Qutub Minar:
Come to the most exotic and beautiful location of Delhi and you will be enthralled. This place is absolutely grand and expansive. It is the world’s tallest stone structure built in the year 1193 by Qutubuddin Aibak in loving memory of his teacher. It has 379 circular stone steps which look spectacular and spell bounding from a distance. One can view the whole of Delhi and New Delhi from the vantage point. The Qutub Minar also houses a mosque which was built by Qutubuddin Aibak.
- Interesting Facts: Qutub Minar is one of the tallest brick minarets in the world, accounting to 120 m. This monument also has a tall Iron Pillar, which stands there for more than 2000 years without rusting. Qutub Minar has a total count of 379 stairs inside the tower which can lead up to the top marble terrace.
- Ideal Time to Visit: You can visit Qutub Minar in between October till March, as weather is best during this time.
- Timings: This place remains open for visitors from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Entry Fees: This monument is charged with an entry fee of 30 INR for Indian tourists and 500 INR for international tourists.
See More: Historical Mosques in India
9. India Gate:
Your trip to India will not be complete if you don’t come to the fine and beautiful India Gate. This place is absolutely amazing. It is located in the centre of Delhi and is the biggest war memorial you will ever find in the whole country. The monument immortalizes about ninety thousand soldiers of the erstwhile British army who lost their lives during the World Wars and Afghan War. The appearance of this place is truly beautiful and must be visited once in a lifetime. It is definitely one of the best historical places you may visit.
- Interesting Facts: This monument is engraved with the names of the brave soldiers who lost their lives in North Western Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919. It also has an Amar Jawan Jyoti that flames round the clock throughout the year to remind the sacrifices of the soldiers in Indo Pak war of 1971.
- Ideal Time to Visit: Idle time to visit India Gate is from October to March, as the winters can genuinely be enjoyed by just relaxing in the garden area surrounding this monument.
- Timings: India Gate remains open round the clock.
- Entry Fees: That tourists don’t have to pay anything for visiting India Gate!!
10. Ganges:
One of the most sacred rivers in the country, the Ganges is considered to be a place of great spiritualism and beauty. The river itself is a home to beautiful dolphins and attracts devotees from all over India each year, especially during the time of Durga Puja. The Ganges is one of the oldest sacred rivers in India making it a great historic location.
- Interesting Facts: The River Ganges, Ganga, begins its journey from Himalayan Mountains to the Bay of Bengal, covering the distance of 2525 km. It is the world’s third largest river by discharge and 34th longest river by length.
- Ideal Time to Visit: One can take a holy dip in this river anytime throughout the year. But, during Kumbh or Makar Sankranti, it is considered auspicious to take a holy bath in this river
- Timings: There is no specific time for visiting the Ganges.
- Entry Fees: You don’t have to pay anything to witness the calmness of the river.
11. Siddhivinayak Temple:
This temple located in Mumbai is a grand temple built in the name of Lord Ganesha. Its intricate galleries and magnificent structure makes it one of the most elaborate historical sites in India and is the attraction of millions of devotees every year. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and has a very positive aura that is both enjoyable and revering.
- Interesting Facts: Shree Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the richest temples of India. The Ganesh Idol present in this temple is unique and unusual; as it is framed out of a single black colored stone, with Ganesha’s trunk to the right-hand side instead of left.
- Ideal Time to Visit: One can pay a visit anytime throughout the year, but the main attraction of Siddhivinayak temple is during the Chaturthi dates every year.
- Timings: Since it’s a holy place, it remains open from 5:30 a.m. to 9.50 p.m. throughout the year.
- Entry Fees: There are no entry fees to visit this place; however, the entry of laptop computers, tablets or cameras are banned inside the temple premises and can be kept in the locker provided. The nominal charges of securing a laptop are 50 INR, whereas for the tablets and cameras the fee is 10 INR.
12. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib:
One of the oldest Sikh religious sites in India, the Bangla Sahib is well known throughout the world to have healing waters located inside the gurudwara. This is not only an attraction for devotees but also tourists from all over the world who come to witness firsthand the beauty of these healing waters. Though the gurudwara is a religious site it still opens its doors to a wide number of people who are surely changed after visiting this wonderful historical places in India.
- Interesting Facts: This holy place was one a bungalow-sized residential area of Raja Jaisingh, which later was converted into a Gurudwara and was named after the 8th Sikh Guru, Guru Harikishan Sahib. This place warmly welcomes all individual irrespective to their religion, nationality or even their races!! Surprisingly, there is one museum, hospital and an art gallery functioning and its basement; whereas the main Gurudwara, the Sarovar, the Yatri Niwas, and a school operates inside the premises.
- Ideal Time to Visit: There is no perfect time to visit the house of God!! You can pay your visit anytime to Bangla Sahib throughout the year!!
- Timings: This religious place is open round the clock, but the best time to visit Bangla Sahib is around 4:30 a.m. to witness the holy Ardaas.
- Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for visiting this holy place. Even foreigners can enter the premises without paying anything!!
13. Lodi Gardens:
These gardens are easily one of the biggest stretches of land inaugurated as Indian heritage ranging over a whopping 80 acres. The Lodi gardens are a lush Indian heritage with some of the most magnificent monuments the world has ever seen. The best part is that this wonderful place is actually a city park that was inaugurated in 1936 for the public use. It now is the attraction of thousands of tourists every year making it one of the most opaque historical places of India.
- Interesting Facts: Lodi Garden has a wide variety of spice plantation, rose garden, and a Greenhouse. The rose garden is bloomed with more than 200 types of roses. It is also a famous jogging destination for both morning and evening joggers.
- Ideal Time to Visit: The evening hours are the best; however, the period from October to March is considered suitable for visiting this historical place of North India.
- Timings: You can visit Lodi Garden from 6 in the morning till 7:30 in the evening.
- Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit Lodi Garden.
14. Golconda:
Golconda or gollakonda is a beautiful monument situated in Hyderabad. It provides an excellent view of the city itself from the top of the monument and is an attraction for a number of tourists from all around the world. Situated 11 km west of Hyderabad Golconda is the perfect spot for being at the top of the list of historical places in India.
- Interesting Facts: the ruler of the Kakatiya Dynasty first built Golconda Fort. There is an 800 years old tree inside the premises along with the secret tunnel that leads from Durbar hall to the foot of the hill.
- Ideal Time to Visit: Winters are considered best to visit this historical monument.
- Timings: Golconda Fort opens from 8 a.m. till 5.50 p.m.
- Entry Fees: Indian tourist has to pay a sum of 15 INR as an entry fee, which is 200 INR for international tourists. Also, one has to pay 25 INR for the entry of still cameras, where has 130 INR for the sound and light show.
See More: Historical Forts In India
15. Victoria Memorial:
The Victoria memorial situated in the wonderful city of Calcutta is a beautiful British made monument honouring Queen Victoria. It is a beautiful monument built in the middle of wonderful parks and lakes increasing the aesthetic value of the place making it one of the most famous historical places in India.
- Interesting Facts: The architecture of this building reflects Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture, a blend of British and Mughal architecture. Prince of Wales in 1906 led the foundation stone. It also has a figure of ‘Angel of Victory’ mounted on a giant ball bearing that enables its movement with the wind.
- Ideal Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kolkata is in between December to February.
- Timings: Victoria Memorial gallery open from 10 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. except for Mondays and national holidays. You can also visit the Gardens which opens with the sunrise and closes just before the sunset throughout the year.
- Entry Fees: The Victoria Memorial is tagged with an entry fee of 30 INR for Indians and 500 INR for international tourists. However, the entry to the hall is entirely free for school children and army personnel. Whereas for the Gardens, one has to pay an entry fee of 10 INR.
It is advised to perform a simple internet search before you visit any of these historical places in India. So that you are updated with the present scenario of the area in terms of weather, transportation and other essential things that are considered before planning a trip, all the above mentioned historical places are exotic and unique in their ways and hold significant value for both India and Indians!! It is advised to visit these historical monuments once in your lifetime to witness that right color of India.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:
1. Can we book a ticket online?
Ans: The tickets can be purchased by both online and offline mode. However, it is recommended to buy it online before your visit to avoid the massive rush or the long queues, which will be a time wasting factor for you. Standing in long lines may also be tiring and will cut short your precious time that you will be utilizing during your visit to any of these monuments.
2. What are the food and accommodation status in and around these historical monuments?
Ans: Since they are the famous tourist spots, these places are well equipped with the availability of restaurants or food courts to fulfill the fooding purpose. However, you might face a bit tough accommodation problems near some of these monuments, as they are located on the outskirts of the city. Henceforth, it is suggested to book a hotel or guest house prayer to your visit.
3. What is the status of availability of local transportation that can be used while visiting these monuments?
Ans: All these historical places are well connected with the local Transportation system. However, you can also book your private cab or taxi if you are not very comfortable with the Public Transportation system. The public transportation facility can be availed readily. But, in case of personal vehicle booking, it is recommended to pre-book your vehicle before your visit.
4. Is there any particular requirement before visiting any of these historical places?
Ans: No, there is no particular requirement before visiting any of these places. But, the opening hours can ruin your trip. So, before visiting any of these places do acknowledge yourself with the opening and closing hours of the place along with the entry fee, if applicable. It is also advised to plan your trip according to the climatic condition of the city, to make most out of your trip!!
5. Is it easy to visit each of these historical places?
Ans: Yes it is completely easy to visit these historical places as all the cities are connected well with all modes of transportation. One can easily reach the respective city via air transportation if you are planning for a luxurious trip. However, if you are looking for a more economical mode of transportation, you can book your seat and several trains or state buses that will is your movements.
