India's Best Attractions to Visit | Forts, Palaces & Temples
As one of the oldest ancient civilizations, India is rich in diversified cultural heritage as well as gorgeous tourism resources. When you take a trip to India, your travel concept will always be refreshed. From the snow-capped mountains in the far north to the sunny, humid, and hot beaches in the south, the vast land covers more than 20 world cultural heritages. In addition to its overwhelming natural landscape, magnificent forts and palaces, ancient temples overlooking deep valleys, and numerous sacred attractions are waiting for your exploration. Let's learn about the following best attractions to visit in India!
Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal, situated in Agra City in Uttar Pradesh, is a huge mausoleum built by Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor to immortalize his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983, and is distinguished as "the treasure of Indian Muslim art" and "one of the classic masterpieces of the world's heritage".
Its breathtaking beauty has stood the test of time for over 300 years, its marble carvings and inlays just as captivating today. This grand monument, adorned with pure white marble, gems, and agates, includes a Persian garden, a mosque, minarets, and pools, all centered around the majestic domed mausoleum which houses Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.
The Taj Mahal changes with light, revealing soft hues throughout the day, but it's at sunrise when the golden glow makes it truly enchanting as the first visitors arrive. For a different view, go to the opposite bank of the Yamuna River near sunset, where its beauty is framed by dusk, and it's easy to see why it's among the most photographed sights in the world.
Taj Mahal
Agra Red Fort
In addition to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, another worthwhile attraction in Agra, is located on the hill beside the Yamanu River. Built of red sandstone more than 450 years ago, it is also called the Red Fort.
Being in disrepair for many years, the exquisite carvings and designs on the painted beams and walls still vaguely preserve the former fabulous style. As you approach the fort, the red sandstone exterior, lofty towers, and grand portico come into view. The red sandstone shimmers warmly in the sunlight, giving you a sense of historical intimacy.
It is constructed with multiple courtyards and buildings. For example, with its beautiful arches and ornate decorations, Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Audience) was once the place where the emperor received his officials and the people. At Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), the sparkling gems and ornate designs make you feel like you are in a fantasy world, showing a grand and magnificent collection of Hindu and Islamic architectural art.
Amber Fort
Situated on the outskirts of Jaipur, the Pink City and the capital of Rajasthan, Amber Fort is built in the late 16th century. The exterior of this fortress is made of a combination of red sandstone and marble, creating a unique color and texture. The first thing you'll be attracted to is its magnificent four-story structure. Each floor has a beautiful courtyard filled with flowers and plants and filled with a light aroma, and you can get a full view of the Lion Gate of the palace.
In the Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), you can see a mural depicting the life of ancient royalty and magnificent battle scenes. In the Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure), you will be impressed by the exquisite decorations and ingenious designs, especially the windows that allow a gentle breeze to cool and delight you.
Don't miss the Sheesh Mahal (mirror palace)! Countless small mirrors on the palace wall are fabulous shining in the sun. These all well explain why Amber Fort is famous worldwide for its artistic elements.
Hawa Mahal
As a landmark in Jaipur, Hawa Mahal, built from red and pink sandstone in 1799, is located on the main road of Jaipur. The unique five-story building looks like a huge pink "wall", which is densely covered with 953 honeycomb windows, hollowed out with red sandstone.
This palace cleverly allows the royal ladies to observe through the windows the daily life of the streets, the bustling markets, and the celebrations. Imagine the joy of pushing open a window and having the hustle and bustle of the streets unfold before your eyes. Even more marvelous is the breeze that travels through the open windows to every corner of the palace, bringing gusts of coolness to this historic place. It is for this reason that Hawa Mahal has been given the name "Palace of Winds" and has become an integral symbol of Jaipur, attracting countless tourists to experience its historical richness.
Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
Jama Masjid Mosque
In front of the Red Fort is another landmark of Old Delhi, the Jama Masjid Mosque, as well as one of the largest mosques in India, with a huge white marble dome and red sandstone walls, decorated with golden toppings and delicate reliefs.
As you take off your shoes and walk through the marvel northern gate, you will get to the large courtyard with a pool and a large flock of pigeons. If you are lucky, you can capture a sacred image against the backdrop of the Jama Masjid, with the blue sky and the cloud-like pigeons hovering above. If your trip happens to coincide with the day around the Feast of Sacrifice, you can see thousands of people performing the Salah to show their devotion.
7 DAYS 
12 DAYS 
9 DAYS The Ganges River
The Ganges River, the sacred river and mother river of Indians, is regarded as the most sacred symbol by Hindus. This longest and widest river in South Asia passes through many cities in India. Most tourists go to Varanasi to experience the unique customs of the Ganges. This holy city is full of countless myths and religious legends, showing its charm and culture.
Besides, there are many sacred sites along the Ganges River where a strong religious atmosphere can be felt. Especially the Ganga Aarti ceremony, which is a sacred ritual held daily. As night falls, lights, flames, and prayers intertwine, and the riverbank is enveloped in a golden glow. The priests light torches and gently shake the lanterns in their hands, and the flames dance to the sound of prayers as if they are conversing with the Ganges. Standing on the bank, you will feel that your mind is washed and purified by the sacred breath of this pure land.
Meenakshi Amman Temple
The Meenakshi Amman Temple, a shining representation of the South Indian art of architecture, sculpture, and painting, has a rich history of more than 1,000 years. Pilgrims from all over the world step into this sacred temple to experience its deep cultural heritage.
The temple is famous for its 14 towers adorned with 33,000 colorful sculptures. Its small quadrilateral complex, the magnificent roof, the breathtaking hall of 1000 pillars, and the unique musical columns are all highlights that make you stop and linger. The Golden-Lotus Ponds, where the water shimmers with reflections of sunlight, mirroring the magnificence of the temple, while the parrot cages add vivid color.
If you are interested in traditional practices, don't miss the annual Meenakshi Tirukalyanam. Various celebrations, grand processions, and devotional prayers, all this vibrancy and vigor lets you experience the cultural charm.
Amritsar Golden Temple
Known as the "Crown Jewel of Sikhism", the Golden Temple is breathtaking. Built with 750 kilograms of pure gold, its appearance glows in the sunlight as if emanating a divine radiance. Surrounded by a serene 5.1-meter-deep artificial lake, which reflects the golden figure of the temple and adds a sense of serenity and peace to the whole scene. The building is a blend of Islamic and Hindu styles, designed in a quadrilateral plan layout with four entrances, symbolizing the Sikh philosophy of equality - all are welcome to visit.
A special feature of the Golden Temple is the communal kitchen "Langar", where vegetarian meals are served free of charge to all visitors throughout the day, irrespective of race, religion, or status. You will not only feel the power of tolerance, but also gain a sense of peace and warmth.
Amritsar Golden Temple
Kerala Backwaters
With greenery, blue lakes, and diverse wildlife, Kerala is inviting you to explore. As you board a traditional houseboat and sail slowly into the mystical backwaters, you will be mesmerized by the beauty.
Along the meandering waterways, you will see houses looking cozy in the shade of green trees. The villagers are either fishing at the water's edge or chatting leisurely on the shore. This tranquil lifestyle makes you want to stop and savor it.
On the boat, you enjoy the scenery through the beautifully designed windows, and the water seems to whisper to the boat. You can soak up the sun and enjoy the breeze in the open air space, or savor the local cuisine, and your taste buds will be satisfied in the moment.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves
Situated in Maharashtra, Ajanta and Ellora Caves are both masterpieces with magnificent historical and archaeological values. These rock-cut Buddhist caves date back centuries. Every year, tourists from all over the world come here to witness the exquisite carvings.
The 34 rock-cut caves of Ellora and the 24 caves in Ajanta are worth exploring. The caves in Ajanta, composed of stone-carved monuments are mainly devoted to Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhists, meanwhile, the Ellora caves contain monuments built by India, Buddhism, and Jainism during the Rashtra Kuta Empire. The murals and sculptures show daily life, mythology, and religious rituals of ancient India. When you view them up close, you can feel the creative passion and religious devotion of the artists hundreds of years ago.
Ajanta Caves
Explore Authentic India's Charm With Odynovo
India has become one of the most visited countries in Asia, and you will be deeply attracted by her rich cultural heritage and religious features. No wonder people say that the charm of India can only be realized after a few days of staying in this country by immersing in those fabulous sites.
If you're planning to travel to India and explore its unique charm with your own eyes, please don't hesitate to contact us or write to [email protected], just simply tell us your interests and needs, and one of our travel experts will create a tailor-made itinerary for you within 24hrs.
Quick Question
Related Posts You May Like
What Our Clients Say
"Great Service and Value", "Exceed All Expectations", "Highly Recommend".
SUBSCRIBE TO WIN A FREE TOUR
Subscribe to our newsletter for a chance to win a free 7-day tour to Vietnam! And more insider travel news, exclusive offers, and inspiration will be sent straight to your inbox. Check our previous newsletters and get some sparks.