Taj Mahal
Perhaps India's most recognizable building, the
Taj Mahal is also the world's most famous testimony to the power of love. Named
after Mumtaz Mahal, the favorite wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, this most
beautiful of mausoleums was begun upon her death in 1631 and took 20,000
workmen until 1648 to complete.
Varanasi
Dating back to the 8th century BC, Varanasi is
one of the oldest still inhabited cities in the world. A major pilgrimage
center for Hindus, this holy city has long been associated with the mighty
Ganges River, one of the faith's most important religious symbols.
The Golden Temple Of Amritsar
Founded in 1577 by Ram Das, Amritsar is an
important hub of Sikh history and culture. The main attraction here is
Harmandir Sahib, opened in 1604 and still often referred to as the Golden
Temple for its beautiful gold decoration.
The Golden City Jaisalmer
So named for the yellow sandstone used in most
of its buildings, the Golden City of Jaisalmer is an oasis of splendid old
architecture that rises from the sand dunes of the Thar Desert. Once a
strategic outpost, today the city is filled with splendid old mansions;
magnificent gateways; and the massive Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the
Golden Fort, a daunting 12th-century structure that rises high above the town.
Red Fort
Built by Shah Jahan in 1648 as the seat of
Mughal power – a role it maintained until 1857 – the magnificent
crescent-shaped Red Fort in New Delhi, named after the stunning red sandstone
used in its construction, covers a vast area of more than two square
kilometers, all of it surrounded by a large moat.
Mumbai The Gateway of India
Standing an impressive 26 meters tall and
overlooking the Arabian Sea, the iconic Gateway of India is a must-see when in
Mumbai. Built to commemorate the arrival of King George V and his wife Queen
Mary in 1911, this stunning piece of architecture was opened with much pomp and
ceremony in 1924 and was, for a while, the tallest structure in the city.
Mecca Masjid Hyderabad
Construction of Hyderabad's Mecca Masjid, one of
the world's largest mosques – and one of the oldest in India – began in 1614
during Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah's reign and took almost 80 years to complete.
Amer Fort
Amer Fort (often also spelt "Amber")
was built as a fortified palace in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I and has long
served as the capital of Jaipur. Carved high up into the hillside, the fort is
accessible on foot via a steep climb or by shuttle rides from the town below
(better still, let an elephant do the work).
The Beaches of Goa
Long known within India as the "go-to"
destination for those seeking a great beach holiday, Goa's beautiful western
coastline, overlooking the Arabian Sea, has only recently been discovered by
tourists from overseas. Goa's more than 60 miles of coastline is home to some
of the world's loveliest beaches, each with their own particular appeal.
Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
One of South India's most popular tourist
attractions, Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is centered around a
lake built by British engineers in 1895 for irrigation and to provide water to
the city of Madurai.
Agra Fort
Built as a military structure in 1565 by Emperor Akbar with later additions by Shah Jahan, the stunning Agra Fort (also known as Agra's Red Fort) is an interesting mix of both Hindu and Muslim influences.
The Ellora Caves
The famous monumental Ellora Caves were built
between the 5th and 10th centuries by Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu monks, and make
for an excellent excursion from Mumbai, some 300 kilometers to the west.
Mehrangarh Fort
Dominating the old city of Jodhpur, the massive
Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest fortifications in India, was built in the
15th century to safeguard the people of the famous "Blue City."
Jodhpur is still known by this name, which is derived from its indigo-colored
houses, painted blue to deflect the heat.
The Ganges River
The Ganges River, or "Ganga" after the
Hindu goddess, has long been one of India's most revered natural wonders. It's
also one of the country's
leading attractions, drawing crowds of Indian nationals to partake in its
religious ceremonies, as well as tourists to enjoy the splendor of this mighty
river.
Mysore Palace
The sprawling city of Mysore is a delight to
explore thanks to its eclectic mix of fine old colonial architecture; regal
Indian palaces; and lush, well-manicured gardens. While those inclined towards
shopping will enjoy spending time in the city's famous silk and sandalwood bazaars,
the main attraction is magnificent Mysore Palace.
Mahabodhi Temple
Bodhgaya, considered the world's holiest
Buddhist site, attracts thousands of visitors each year, all drawn to
participate with the resident monks in meditation and prayer.