India is one of the largest and most fascinating countries on earth. It stretches far and wide over an immense territory, whose surface exceeds 3 million square kilometers and brings together over one billion inhabitants divided into two different ethnic groups, for about 200 languages and spoken dialects.
The incredible cultural variety and its unparalleled artistic value are absolutely proportionate to its territorial greatness. But what are the most important architectural structures from the historical and artistic point of view of this wonderful region of the world?
Here are 8 monuments not to be missed in India!
Ajanta Caves
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the most beautiful of Indian monuments, but the Ajanta Caves are just as stunning. It is an incredible monumental complex entirely excavated in the rock in the 2nd century BC containing valuable sculptures, paintings and relics. Since 1983, the Caves have been included among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Akbar Tomb
Also in Agra it is possible to visit another place par excellence linked to the historical figure of Akbar, the Tomb of Sikandra. The works that led to the construction of the tomb were started by the emperor himself. However the structure was completed by his heir Jahangir, the latter made several modifications to the original project which was heavily revised.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
It is a fantastic property located in the city of Jodhpur, where an ultra-luxury hotel is located today. It consists of around 100 rooms and holds the record of the largest private residence in the world. But its size is not the only peculiarity. The palace has opulent paintings and decorations taken from the Ramayana and was one of the very first hotels to implement an air conditioning system.
Lake Palace
Built in the 19th century, it was originally designed as a summer residence of the royal family. Today the Lake Palace of Udaipur, in Rajasthan, is home to one of the best 5-star hotels on Earth, certainly among the most evocative and efficient in the nation.
Virupaksha Temple
The Virupaksha Temple was born as a small shrine within the Hampi complex, today a UNESCO World Heritage site, once a village belonging to the city of Vijaya Nagara, capital of the eponymous empire.
Golden Temple
Harmandir Sahib, better known as the Golden Temple, is the main attraction of the Amritsar subdivision in northern India. It was built in the 16th century and only subsequently covered with gold. Today it is a very important place of religious pilgrimage for the faithful of Sikhism.
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is certainly the most fascinating of Indian architectural monuments, so beautiful that it has been included among the 7 wonders of the world. Today it is undoubtedly one of the main symbols of Indian culture.
Agra Fort
The fort of the Persian ruler Akbar is located in the city of Agra, known to be one of the richest locations in priceless memorabilia. It was a strategic military base and residence of the imperial family. Visit this fort by travelling through the India’s Palace on Wheels train which offers world-class services onboard the train.