India's Top Tourist Attractions and Popular Places
India has a lot to offer its visitors. With its rich history and diverse culture, the beautiful country of India attracts tourists from all over the world. Around every corner and in every town, you can take home memories and have cheerful experiences you simply cannot find anywhere else in the world. Of course, India is home to many fascinating attractions. Have a look at India’s Top Attractions.
Taj Mahal, Agra – Located in Agra (Uttar Pradesh) on the banks of River Yamuna, it is one of the star attractions of India tours and travels. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Build in white marble this beautiful building is the ultimate symbol of love. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built this building as a mausoleum monument in the commemoration of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The beauty of Taj Mahal never fails to lure its visitors with its gorgeous gardens, water pools and prayer house.
Red Fort, New Delhi – It is one of the most affluent mughal buildings in India. Known for its architectural brilliance, this fort was built by mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1638 and 1648. The fort complex has 14 gates and houses many beautiful palaces and museum inside. Hamam (royal bath palace), Diwan-I-Aam, Diwan-I-Khas, Moti Masjid, etc are predominant palaces inside the fort complex. The popular sound and light show attracts tourists every evening. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lotus Temple, New Delhi – It is one of the most beautiful temples in India which is located in New Delhi. The main building is built in the shapes of Lotus with white marble. Its beauty is enhanced by beautiful gardens and water pools. It belongs to Bahai Faith and also known as the Bahai House of Worship. It has won many architectural awards and considered to be as one of the Seven Wonders of India.
Qutub Minar, New Delhi – It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India located in the city of New Delhi. It is the longest brick & stone minarets in the world. The imposing structure of the Qutub Minar is built in the Afghan Style of Architecture. It was built by Muslim emperors Qutab-ud-din Aibak, Iltutmish and Feroz Shah Tughlaq. The Qutub Minar Complex houses the Alai Darwaza - the main entrance, Quwwat-Ul-Islam Mosque and the iron pillar Alai Minar. It is one of the most visited monuments in the country.
Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi – It is one another UNESCO World Heritage Site of India in New Delhi. It is the first garden tomb on the Indian Subcontinent. This beautiful monument was built as the Mughal Emperor Humayun's tomb by Humayun’s wife - Hamida Banu Begum in 1562 CE. It was designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian architect. It is located close to Old Fort also called Dina-Panah Citadel built by Humayun in 1533. The complex of Humayun’s Tomb houses the main tomb of emperor Humayun and tomb of Hamida Begum. There also graves of Dara Shikoh and many mughals including Jahandar Shah, Farrukhsiyar, Rafi Ul-Darjat, Rafi Ud-Daulat and Alamgir II.
Akshardham Temple, New Delhi – It is a recently built beautiful temple complex in New Delhi. It is the largest Hindu Temple Complex in the world. It displays centuries of traditional and Hindu culture, spirituality and art & architecture. Swami Narayan Temple, Sahajanand Darshan (Hall of Values), Neelkanth Darshan (Giant Screen Film), Sanskruit Vihar (Boat Cruise), Musical Fountains (Yagnapurush Kund), Bharat Upvan (Garden of India), Narayan Sarovar, Premvati Ahargruh (Food Court), AARSH Centre, etc are featured attractions of Swami Narayan Akshardham Temple Complex in Delhi.
Khajuraho Temple Complex – It is situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh - the Heart of India. Khajuraho is widely famous for architecturally beautiful temples by the Chandela Rulers between the 9th and 10th century AD. The temples are known for erotic sculptures depicting sensual, erotic and lovemaking couples scene. Worth visit temples in Khajuraho are Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, Vishwanath Temple, Lakshmana Temple and the Parsvanath Temple. The Group of Khajuraho Temples has been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Elephanta Caves, Mumbai – It is located on Elephanta Islands in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This heritage site was built between 810 AD and 1260 AD. The Elephanta caves are home to impressive sculptures. The temple of Lord Shiva that sprawls over an area of 60,000 ft is beautiful, with a main chamber and a number of subsidiary shrines. It is one of the most and must visit attractions of Mumbai city tour. It can be easily accessed by a boat ride from the Gateway of India in Mumbai.
Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Aurangabad – Located in Aurangabad, the Ajanta & Ellora Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and among top tourist attractions of India tourism. Caves are famous for rock-cut and architecturally beautiful temples. The architectural heritage built around the cave shrines is spell-binding.
Golden Fort, Jaisalmer – Sited in the very heart of Jaisalmer and vast Thar Desert, the
Golden Fort is one of the most visited monuments in India. It attracts a large gathering of tourists from all over the world. Also known as Sonar Kila or Jaisalmer Durg, this magnificent monument of Rajasthan is one of the seven wonders of India. It is also one of the largest forts in the world. The fort complex majestically stands on the vast stretches of Thar Desert atop Trikuta Hill. The fort complex had been witnessed many battles. The fort complex is known for its architectural brilliance housing many exquisite Jain Temples, havelis and palaces.
Sun Temple, Konark - Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also one of the Seven Wonders of India. Built in black granite, this magnificent temple was built in AD 1236 - 1264 by King Narasimhadeva-I. It is also known as Black Pagoda due to its structure built in black granite. The temple is popular among tourists with its spectacular architecture which takes the form of Chariot of Surya Dev (Sun God) with 24 wheels. The chariot is led by a team of six horses. The Nata Mandir is located at the entrance of the Sun Temple. Nata Mandir is the temple where temple dancers used to perform dances to pay the homage to the Surya Devta (the Sun God). The exteriors of walls of temples are intricately carved with exquisite carving and sculptures. Some of sculptures depict erotic scenes - sensuous poses of love making couples from Kam-Sutra.
Meenakshi Temple, Madurai – Located in Madurai (Tamil Nadu), is one of the Seven Wonders of India. It appeals tourists from all over the world with its exquisite architecture and 14 magnificent Gopurams. It is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (incarnation of Goddess Parvati) and her consort Sundareshwar (manifestation of Lord Shiva). The temple complex is richly sculptured and painted. Thousand Pillar Hall is one of the major attractions of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple Complex. It was built by Ariyanatha Mudaliar in 1569.
Kerala Backwaters – Kerala backwaters are a gift of nature and very popular among tourists from all over the world. Placid and scenic backwaters of Kerala are networked by canals, lakes, lagoons, rivers and inlets. Popular backwater destinations in Kerala are Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kuttanad, Kollam, Kottayam, Fort Kochi, Kozhikode, etc. The best way to experience the charm of Kerala backwaters is cruise the backwaters by luxury houseboat.
Goa Beaches – Goa is widely known for the charm of sun, sand, sea and surf. It is often referred to as the beach capital of India. It has some of the finest beach resorts in the world. Beaches are ideal for holidaying and family vacations. Popular beaches in Goa are Anjuna, Aguada, Dona Paula, Palolem, Baga, Calangute, Colva, Benaulim, Miramar, etc.
Wildlife & National Park – India is also known for its rich flora and fauna. There are many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the country. Popular wildlife destinations are Ranthambhore, Sariska, Sasan Gir, Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench, Panna, Bandipur, Nagarhole, Dachigram, Kaziranga, Periyar, etc.
India has a lot to offer its visitors. With its rich history and diverse culture, the beautiful country of India attracts tourists from all over the world. Around every corner and in every town, you can take home memories and have cheerful experiences you simply cannot find anywhere else in the world. Of course, India is home to many fascinating attractions. Have a look at India’s Top Attractions.
Taj Mahal, Agra – Located in Agra (Uttar Pradesh) on the banks of River Yamuna, it is one of the star attractions of India tours and travels. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Build in white marble this beautiful building is the ultimate symbol of love. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built this building as a mausoleum monument in the commemoration of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The beauty of Taj Mahal never fails to lure its visitors with its gorgeous gardens, water pools and prayer house.
Red Fort, New Delhi – It is one of the most affluent mughal buildings in India. Known for its architectural brilliance, this fort was built by mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1638 and 1648. The fort complex has 14 gates and houses many beautiful palaces and museum inside. Hamam (royal bath palace), Diwan-I-Aam, Diwan-I-Khas, Moti Masjid, etc are predominant palaces inside the fort complex. The popular sound and light show attracts tourists every evening. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lotus Temple, New Delhi – It is one of the most beautiful temples in India which is located in New Delhi. The main building is built in the shapes of Lotus with white marble. Its beauty is enhanced by beautiful gardens and water pools. It belongs to Bahai Faith and also known as the Bahai House of Worship. It has won many architectural awards and considered to be as one of the Seven Wonders of India.
Qutub Minar, New Delhi – It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India located in the city of New Delhi. It is the longest brick & stone minarets in the world. The imposing structure of the Qutub Minar is built in the Afghan Style of Architecture. It was built by Muslim emperors Qutab-ud-din Aibak, Iltutmish and Feroz Shah Tughlaq. The Qutub Minar Complex houses the Alai Darwaza - the main entrance, Quwwat-Ul-Islam Mosque and the iron pillar Alai Minar. It is one of the most visited monuments in the country.
Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi – It is one another UNESCO World Heritage Site of India in New Delhi. It is the first garden tomb on the Indian Subcontinent. This beautiful monument was built as the Mughal Emperor Humayun's tomb by Humayun’s wife - Hamida Banu Begum in 1562 CE. It was designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian architect. It is located close to Old Fort also called Dina-Panah Citadel built by Humayun in 1533. The complex of Humayun’s Tomb houses the main tomb of emperor Humayun and tomb of Hamida Begum. There also graves of Dara Shikoh and many mughals including Jahandar Shah, Farrukhsiyar, Rafi Ul-Darjat, Rafi Ud-Daulat and Alamgir II.
Akshardham Temple, New Delhi – It is a recently built beautiful temple complex in New Delhi. It is the largest Hindu Temple Complex in the world. It displays centuries of traditional and Hindu culture, spirituality and art & architecture. Swami Narayan Temple, Sahajanand Darshan (Hall of Values), Neelkanth Darshan (Giant Screen Film), Sanskruit Vihar (Boat Cruise), Musical Fountains (Yagnapurush Kund), Bharat Upvan (Garden of India), Narayan Sarovar, Premvati Ahargruh (Food Court), AARSH Centre, etc are featured attractions of Swami Narayan Akshardham Temple Complex in Delhi.
Khajuraho Temple Complex – It is situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh - the Heart of India. Khajuraho is widely famous for architecturally beautiful temples by the Chandela Rulers between the 9th and 10th century AD. The temples are known for erotic sculptures depicting sensual, erotic and lovemaking couples scene. Worth visit temples in Khajuraho are Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, Vishwanath Temple, Lakshmana Temple and the Parsvanath Temple. The Group of Khajuraho Temples has been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Elephanta Caves, Mumbai – It is located on Elephanta Islands in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This heritage site was built between 810 AD and 1260 AD. The Elephanta caves are home to impressive sculptures. The temple of Lord Shiva that sprawls over an area of 60,000 ft is beautiful, with a main chamber and a number of subsidiary shrines. It is one of the most and must visit attractions of Mumbai city tour. It can be easily accessed by a boat ride from the Gateway of India in Mumbai.
Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Aurangabad – Located in Aurangabad, the Ajanta & Ellora Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and among top tourist attractions of India tourism. Caves are famous for rock-cut and architecturally beautiful temples. The architectural heritage built around the cave shrines is spell-binding.
Golden Fort, Jaisalmer – Sited in the very heart of Jaisalmer and vast Thar Desert, the
Golden Fort is one of the most visited monuments in India. It attracts a large gathering of tourists from all over the world. Also known as Sonar Kila or Jaisalmer Durg, this magnificent monument of Rajasthan is one of the seven wonders of India. It is also one of the largest forts in the world. The fort complex majestically stands on the vast stretches of Thar Desert atop Trikuta Hill. The fort complex had been witnessed many battles. The fort complex is known for its architectural brilliance housing many exquisite Jain Temples, havelis and palaces.
Sun Temple, Konark - Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also one of the Seven Wonders of India. Built in black granite, this magnificent temple was built in AD 1236 - 1264 by King Narasimhadeva-I. It is also known as Black Pagoda due to its structure built in black granite. The temple is popular among tourists with its spectacular architecture which takes the form of Chariot of Surya Dev (Sun God) with 24 wheels. The chariot is led by a team of six horses. The Nata Mandir is located at the entrance of the Sun Temple. Nata Mandir is the temple where temple dancers used to perform dances to pay the homage to the Surya Devta (the Sun God). The exteriors of walls of temples are intricately carved with exquisite carving and sculptures. Some of sculptures depict erotic scenes - sensuous poses of love making couples from Kam-Sutra.
Meenakshi Temple, Madurai – Located in Madurai (Tamil Nadu), is one of the Seven Wonders of India. It appeals tourists from all over the world with its exquisite architecture and 14 magnificent Gopurams. It is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (incarnation of Goddess Parvati) and her consort Sundareshwar (manifestation of Lord Shiva). The temple complex is richly sculptured and painted. Thousand Pillar Hall is one of the major attractions of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple Complex. It was built by Ariyanatha Mudaliar in 1569.
Kerala Backwaters – Kerala backwaters are a gift of nature and very popular among tourists from all over the world. Placid and scenic backwaters of Kerala are networked by canals, lakes, lagoons, rivers and inlets. Popular backwater destinations in Kerala are Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kuttanad, Kollam, Kottayam, Fort Kochi, Kozhikode, etc. The best way to experience the charm of Kerala backwaters is cruise the backwaters by luxury houseboat.
Goa Beaches – Goa is widely known for the charm of sun, sand, sea and surf. It is often referred to as the beach capital of India. It has some of the finest beach resorts in the world. Beaches are ideal for holidaying and family vacations. Popular beaches in Goa are Anjuna, Aguada, Dona Paula, Palolem, Baga, Calangute, Colva, Benaulim, Miramar, etc.
Wildlife & National Park – India is also known for its rich flora and fauna. There are many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the country. Popular wildlife destinations are Ranthambhore, Sariska, Sasan Gir, Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench, Panna, Bandipur, Nagarhole, Dachigram, Kaziranga, Periyar, etc.
