Top 10 tourist attractions in India
India is a land of diversity, with something to offer for everyone. From the snow-capped mountains of the north to the sunny beaches of the south, India has it all.
And when it comes to tourist attractions, the country is simply teeming with them. Here are 10 of India’s best tourist attractions that you cannot miss.
Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Located in Agra, India, this beautiful mausoleum is a true masterpiece of Mughal architecture and an awe-inspiring testament to love and devotion.
The monument was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. The Taj Mahal is built entirely out of white marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and precious gemstones. It is a true wonder of the world and a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to India.
Amer Fort, Jaipur
Located in the pink city of Jaipur, Amer Fort is a stunning example of Rajput architecture. Built of red sandstone and white marble, the fort complex is home to several palaces, temples and gardens. A must-do here is to take an elephant ride up to the fort entrance.
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Another jewel in Rajasthan’s crown, Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India. Situated atop a hill in Jodhpur, the fort offers stunning views of the blue city below. Within the fort complex, there are a number of palaces and museums that are worth exploring.
Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh
The Khajuraho temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in India. Built between the 9th and 10th centuries, these temples are famous for their erotic sculptures. There are a total of 85 temples in the complex, out of which only 25 have survived till present day.
Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the state of Karnataka, Hampi is home to a number of ancient ruins, temples and sculptures. The most famous among them is the Virupaksha Temple, which is still in use today.
Konark Sun Temple, Odisha
The Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century temple dedicated to the sun god, Surya. Built in the shape of a gigantic chariot, the temple is adorned with elaborate carvings and sculptures. The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Odisha.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
The Ajanta and Ellora caves are a testament to India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. The Ajanta caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and are adorned with intricate sculptures and paintings that depict the life and teachings of Buddha.
The Ellora caves, on the other hand, were built between the 6th and 10th centuries CE and showcase a fusion of multiple religions and architectural styles. Exploring these caves is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the country’s past and its diverse cultural identity.
Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is the most revered and significant shrine for Sikhs across the world. Situated in the city of Amritsar, Punjab, India, the temple complex is a marvel of architecture and engineering. The temple is surrounded by a man-made pool of water, known as the Sarovar, which is believed to have healing properties.
The temple complex not only serves as a place of worship but also houses a number of other shrines, museums, and a community kitchen that serves free meals to thousands of devotees every day. A visit to the Golden Temple is a must for anyone who wants to experience the rich Sikh culture and history.
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
The Valley of Flowers is nestled in the Western Himalayas and stretches over an area of 87.50 sq km. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts of a mesmerizing landscape, filled with vibrant colors of flowers. The park is also home to a variety of animal species such as the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, and musk deer. The best time to visit the valley is from mid-July to mid-August when the flowers are in full bloom and the scenery is breathtaking.
Sundarbans, West Bengal
The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, covering an area of nearly 10,000 square kilometres. In addition to the Royal Bengal Tiger, it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including numerous species of birds, reptiles, and fish.
The Sundarbans is also an important ecosystem, providing a habitat for many endangered species. It is not only a popular destination for wildlife lovers, but also for researchers, who come to study its unique and fascinating ecosystem. Its significance has been recognized by UNESCO, which declared it a World Heritage Site in 1987.