59 attractions in Monuments (back)

When India comes to mind obviously Taj Mahal is one of the must-see destinations to explore in India. It is a global landmark sought by millions across the globe and is recognized by UNESCO. Monument like the Taj are one of a kind. Known definition - The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in the Indian city of Agra. Built between the period of 1631 and 1648 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Shajahan is the inspiration for the monument and is devoted in her memory, standing as the symbol of love for the forthcoming generations. Taj Mahal is being compared with Eiffel tower and other majestic monuments over the course of time as it was once the part of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Also known as Baby Taj because of its an architectural resemblance with the Taj Mahal, tmad-ud-Daulah, a tomb which has a special place in the chronicles of both history as well as architecture. Itmad-ud-Daulah is actually a mausoleum that overlooks the Yamuna River.  Its historical connection with the Taj Mahal is quite interesting since this monument was built by the father of Mumtaz Mahal, for whom the world-famous Taj Mahal was built. It has intricate and colourful patterns and designs, ornate inlays and marbles all over the tomb. 

 Itmad-ud-Daulah, a tomb which has a special place in the chronicles of both history as well as architecture. Itmad-ud-Daulah is actually a mausoleum that overlooks the Yamuna River. Often described as the ‘Jewel Box’ or ‘Baby Taj’, get to admire the very first tomb in India that was made entirely out of Marble.

Agra Fort, one of the finest Mughal forts, built by Emperor Akbar in 1565. Spread over the area of 94 acres with walls as high as 70 feet, It is a massive military structure made from red sandstone sitting on the banks of Yamuna River. Consisting of various palaces including Sheesh Mahal and Shahjahani Mahal, it has four gates provided at four sides known as the Delhi Gate, the Amar Singh Gate, the Elephant Gate and the Khizri Gate opening onto the river.

Moti Masjid which literally means Pearl Masjid is one of the most magnificent monuments built by Mughal Emperror Shah Jahan. It is a beautiful white structure that stands awe-inspiring in its surroundings. The main complex has a courtyard with arched depressions and the main sanctum facade beyond. The sanctum has three large marble domes standing on the walls made of red standstone.

Moti Masjid which literally means Pearl Masjid is one of the most magnificent monuments built by Mughal Emperror Shah Jahan. It is a beautiful white structure that stands awe-inspiring in its surroundings. The main complex has a courtyard with arched depressions and the main sanctum facade beyond. The sanctum has three large marble domes standing on the walls made of red standstone. 

Panch Mahal is a palace in Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh, India. The Panch Mahal meaning 'Five level Palace' was commissioned by Akbar This structure stands close to the Zenana quarters. Literally means ‘Five level palace’, this structure was built for the sole purpose of relaxation and entertainment. Consisting of 176 columns incorporating jalis for the queens, it had beautifully carved pillars and housed a pool in front named Anoop Talab.

Literally means ‘Five level palace’, this structure was built for the sole purpose of relaxation and entertainment. Consisting of 176 columns incorporating jalis for the queens, it had beautifully carved pillars and housed a pool in front named Anoop Talab.

A memorial of national significance, Jallianwalla Bagh is a public garden in Amritsar which is the site of the tragic Jallianwala Massacre. Spread across an area of 6.5 acres, mass killing of peaceful unarmed Sikh individuals including women and children, took place on the day of Baisakhi, the main Sikh festival. British troops on the command of Brigadier General Dyer, open fired on around 20,000 people, which resulted in more than 1000 casualties. The garden built to commemorate the dead, still shows bullet marks of the walls surrounding the site. Designed by renowned American architect Benjamin Polk, the entire structure depicts the suffering and dreadful trial of people during this heinous act. The well that saved lives of a lot of people is still intact and well-maintained by the civic authorities.

Jallianwala Bagh, which was once an ordinary garden house become a site witness to most gruesome committed by the British empire. Mass killing of peaceful unarmed Sikh individuals including women and children, took place here in 1919.

The summer residence of one of the most valiant rulers in ancient India, the Tipu Sultan Summer Palace is a gem in the landscape of Bangalore. Dating back to the 18th Century, it was commissioned by the father of Tipu Sultan, Hyder Ali. A stunning Indo-Islamic architecture adorns the structure of this elegant palace. Captured by the British Army after the fourth Anglo-Indian War, it is believed to be home to a splendid throne of Tipu Sultan which made of pure gold and gems. Housing the museum at an end, it depicts the life of the brave ruler who achieved martyrdom. Standing amid serene gardens, the palace boasts intricately designed motifs, carved pillars, and magnificent balconies. Clothes, pedestals, vessels, and crown which belonged to Tipu Sultan are still well preserved. The inner sanctum of the palace provides an aesthetic and regal ambiance that lifts the spirits of the visitors.

Peace Pagoda is the most beautiful structure in Darjeeling dedicated to Buddha. It is white-colored stupa which showcases different statues of Buddha in 4 different forms. It also has sandstone carvings showcasing the life of Buddha. It also gives breathtaking views of the hilly sights of the region. (Image Source: Wikipedia)

Peace Pagoda is the most beautiful structure in Darjeeling dedicated to Buddha. It is white-colored stupa which showcases different statues of Buddha in 4 different forms. It also has sandstone carvings showcasing the life of Buddha. It also gives breathtaking views of the hilly sights of the region.

One of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in India as well as Darjeeling, The Ghoom Monastery is locally known as Yiga Choeling. Located in Ghoom, at the altitude of 7,407 feet, this monastery will give you exclusive glimpses of intricate Tibetan style architecture. Home to Tibetan refugees in earlier times, you will comes across many key attractions such as a 15-feet- statue of Lord Buddha and the largest collection of ancient buddhist manuscripts.

One of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in India as well as Darjeeling, The Ghoom Monastery is locally known as Yiga Choeling. Located in Ghoom, at the altitude of 7,407 feet, this monastery will give you exclusive glimpses of intricate Tibetan style architecture. Home to Tibetan refugees in earlier times, you will comes across many key attractions such as a 15-feet- statue of Lord Buddha and the largest collection of ancient buddhist manuscripts.

The Badavi Linga Temple is another one of the significant temples in Hampi. It is a marvelous structure dedicated to Hindu Lord Shiva. This brilliant site is home to one of the largest Shivlinga in the world. Reaching a height of 3 meters, the monolithic shiv linga is made of black stone and is half-submerged in water. Located in a closed chamber with no ceiling, the temple is a prominent place of worship for Shiva devotees. A popular tourist attraction, it stands completely in contrast with the otherwise destroyed landscape of Hampi. Enlightened with sunlight through the upper passage, the beauty of the linga mesmerizes everyone who sets their eyes upon it. A breathtaking three-eyed carving on its surface piques the interest of the onlookers. The name is derived from the word 'Badava' which means poor as it is believed to be created by a poor woman in the nearby village. It is also known as the Big Shivlinga. (Image Source: Metrosaga.com)

As the name suggests, Elephant stables are ancient structures used as stables to provide shelter to royal elephants. Dating back to the 15th century, these stables have stood the test of time and are still more intact as compared to the rest of the landscape of Hampi. This grand site consists of 11 dome-shaped towers, wide enough to accommodate two elephants at a time. A fine example of age-old Vijayanagara architecture, it also borrows elements from Indo-Islamic designs particularly the dome-shaped roofs. The inner chambers of the dome are interconnected with small doors on its rear sides. The largest dome in the center is the most prominent among all of them. A popular tourist attraction, it is capable to draw visitors from all around the world.

One of the most breathtaking structures among the ruins of Hampi, the Hazara Rama Temple truly captivates the onlookers. Located in the center of the village Hampi, it is an aesthetic treat to the eyes of the visitors and archaeological enthusiasts. It is dedicated to Hindu Lord Rama and is known to be the site of worship of royals. Minutely carved pillars and walls still stand perfectly depicting the life tales of Lord Rama. With an unparalleled set of architecture, the temple stands to date upholding its fine design and structure. A favorite spot of photographers, the Hazara Temple never lets down anyone who sets their eyes upon it.

Home to one of the largest statues in Hampi, the Laxmi Narasimha Temple is a noteworthy site in these world-famous ruins. It is dedicated to Narasimha, a half-man half-lion deity, who is one of the ten incarnations of Hindu God Vishnu. Locally known as Ugranarsimha which translates to fierce Narsimha, the carvings and designs truly bring out the intimidating aspects of the effigy. It consists of Narsimmha sitting on a coil of Seshanaga which is a seven-headed snake. Before the fall of Vijayanagara, the statue of his consort Lakshmi sitting on his lap was also a part of the sculpture but might have been demolished over the period of time. Truly an artistic marvel, the rest of the sculpture largely influences the onlookers. 

Built-in 16th-century, the Lotus Palace is one of the most well-preserved and popular destinations of Hampi. Believed to be used as a council house, this iconic structure is a perfect blend of HIndu and Islamic architecture. One of the few monuments to largely stay unaffected by the destructive Vijayanagara invasion of the Mughals, it offers lush lawns and serene atmosphere. Consisting of watchtowers, palace basements and pavilions, the entire complex is a fine example of ancient artistic prowess. The facade and interior chambers of the palace resemble a half-open lotus and hence the monuments are names as Lotus Palace or Kamal Mahal.

With exteriors quite similar to that of a Lotus, this palace is one of the most magnificent and awe-inspiring landmarks of Hampi. Consisting of watchtowers, palace basements and pavilions, the entire complex is a fine example of ancient artistic prowess.

Mahanavami Dibba also known as Dusshera Dibba, is a gigantic stone platform located in the Royal center of Hampi. It was built during the reign of Krishna Deva Raya for a viewing point for King. Consisting of a gem-studded throne during the time, it was used as a heightened platform for the king and the rest of the people to enjoy various activities and games performed in the squared circle. Spread across an area of 19 acres, it includes various resting layers which have a wide array of royal activities carved upon it. Apart from sports, competitions and royal artistic performances, the platform was a host of widely celebrated Navaratri and Vijaya Dasami celebrations in the kingdom. One of the highest points in the entire landscape of Hampi, this site truly portrays the culture and significance of the day-to-day life in Vijayanagara.

A raised platform for the King to observe and enjoy various performances and functions, the Mahanavami Dibba is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hampi.

Believed to be one of the oldest temples in Hampi, the Underground Shiva Temple, is one of the most mystical sites in the region. Standing amidst beautiful and lush lawns, this desolate structure is completely submerged in water. The main tower is visible at the entrance where as the inner chambers of the temple are under water. A water canal that goes through this region adds to the beauty of the landmark. It is only possible to check out the outer sanctum underneath the main tower while further excess is restricted. Less known and less crowded than other temples, it is still a worthy place to explore. 

An exquisite part amidst the Royal center in Hampi, the Queen's Bath is an iconic place that attracts a large number of tourists. Believed to be a huge bathing area for the Royals, it consists of a huge bath shelter with perfectly symmetric verandas around it. Another one of the ancient engineering marvels, it has stood the test of time as you can see new graffiti along with the beautiful carvings upon its walls and pillars. Taking water from the water canals passing through the region, this area was strictly restricted for the usage of royals.

One of the most iconic landmarks of Hampi, the Vithala temple is the most popular landscape among the ruins. An ancient architectural marvel, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vithala, the local incarnation of Hindu Lord Vishnu among the cattle rearers community. The temple is home to the immensely famous Stone Chariot which has been mentioned in postal stamps, currency and ancient literature. A symbol of India culture and its diverse heritage, the Stone Chariot is the favorite photogenic location and draws tourists from all across the globe. Built-in the 15th century, this intricately and aesthetically carved structure leaves everyone awestruck. 

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Virupaksha temple also known as the Pampapathi temple is one of the significant sites in the Monuments of Hampi group. Built during the Vijayanagara empire by Deva Raya II, it was subsequently developed during the reigns of Chalukyan and Hoysala dynasties. The magnificent temple complex houses the intricately designed towers which are also known as Gopurams in Kannada. These towers boast carvings of small idols and sculptures portraying various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The temple is dedicated Lord Virupaksha which is the local incarnation of Lord Shiva. Sitting on the banks of the Tungabhadra river, the site is a must-see for history lovers and archaeological enthusiasts. As compared to the other ruins and temples, Virupaksha Temple has stood the test of time and is still a prominent place of worship among the locals. 

Elaborate fort built in 1734 in the hills above Jaipur, offering sweeping views of the city. A magnificent defence fort constructed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh on the edge of Aravalli range. It was never touched by invading forces and hence reclaims its original beauty and elegance. Named after the person whose spirit recked the construction of the fort, it was an essential site for the political agreement between the Maratha forces and the Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh.

A magnificent defence fort built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh on the edge of Aravalli range. It was never touched by invading forces and hence reclaims its original beauty and elegance. Named after the person whose spirit recked the construction of the fort, it was an essential site for the political agreement between the Maratha forces and the Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh.

Jantar Mantar, built by the renowned astronomer and King, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. A UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1734, it holds the largest stone sundial in the world. The name Jantar Mantar translates means ‘Calculating Instrument’ in English, it studied the three ancient celestial coordinate systems out of the five existing coordinate systems. There are a total of 19 astronomical instruments at Jantar Mantar which were used to study, calculate and measure the elements of time, distance and eclipses of celestial bodies.

Built-in 1887, the Albert Hall Museum is one of the significant attractions in Jaipur. Located in the Ram Niwas Garden, it was a brainchild of British designer and architect Samuel Swinton Jacob. With the assistance of Mir Tujumool Hoosein, Jacob succeeded in giving the structure an Indo-Saracenic touch. Initially built as a town hall, it was later turned into a museum. Maharaja Ram Singh named it as Albert Museum to honor the then Princes of Wales, Albert Edward who was visiting at that time. The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts including paintings, jewelry, carpets, metal sculptures, and crystal works and coins from the Gupta, Kushan, Delhi Sultanate, Mughal and British periods. A very popular attraction of the museum is a very old Egyptian Mummy. With a grand collection of artifacts spread across 16 galleries, the museum is not only beautiful from the inside but also far more splendid on the outside. In the evening, the entire structure is deemed in yellow light which makes it look like gold. A paradise for history fanatics, the museum is apt enough to blow anyone's mind.

Also known as the Government Central Museum, the Albert Hall Museum is the oldest place of an exhibition in the state of Rajasthan. Opened in 1887, the institution is home to multiple galleries showcasing artifacts collected from all across the world. A large compilation of ancient objects ranging from coins, jewels, paintings, furniture, and much more adorn the galleries of the museum. Surrounded by serene gardens, it is located in the Ram Niwas Garden of Jaipur City.

Made with red and pink sandstone, it was built in 1799 by Maharaja Swari Pratap Singh. A unique structure designed by Lal Chand Ustad, it is a five-storeyed monument which is and extended palace complex with front elevation to make to look beautifully studded. Situated in Badi Chaupad, it has arched roofs, pink windows and several temples which the Maharaj used to worship. The Vichitra Mandir, the Prakash Mandir, the Hawa Mandir and the Ratan Mandir are a few magnificently built temples which provide a spectacular view of Jaipur. Consisting of 953 small windows also known as Jharokhas, its exterior resembles that of a honeycomb hive. A fifty feet high structure, it is the fusion of Rajput and the Mughal style architecture. Designed with the Venturi effect to keep the interior cool during high temperatures, various fountains and colourful marble work adorn the interiors of the Mahal.

‘Hawa Mahal’ or the Palace of Winds. Representing the crown of Lord Krishna, the building was constructed so the royal women could watch the royal processions and everyday life without being seen. Consisting of 953 small windows also known as Jharokhas, its exterior resembles that of a honeycomb hive. A fifty feet high structure, it is the fusion of Rajput and the Mughal style architecture. Designed with the Venturi effect to keep the interior cool during high temperatures, various fountains and colourful marble work adorn the interiors of the Mahal.

City Palace is in the heart of Jaipur, which is known for its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. A perfect spot for enthusiasts and photographers, it has various gates which represent various seasons, gods and goddesses. Its gates (pols) namely Uday Pol, Virendra Pol , and Tripolia act as the three entry gates of the palace. The large palace complex houses prominent other buildings such as Sabha Niwas (Diwan-e-Aam) - the hall of audiences with splendid interiors of carved columns, Sarvato Bhadra (Diwan-e-Khas) which holds the Guinness World Record for World’s Largest Silver Sterling Vessel, the Pritam Niwas Chowk representing various god and goddesses for respective gates and the Palace complex of Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal as well as the Clock Tower.

The Red Fort also known as Lal Quila stands majestically at the Netaji Subash Marg of the Old Delhi. It is also known as Qila-E-Mubarak since it is looked upon as a monument of blessings. Influenced by Mughal as well as Persian design, the Red Fort gets its name from the most prominent feature of its architectural design, the huge red sandstone. The huge walls of Red Fort extend to almost 2 Kilometers, that cannot be camouflaged, no matter where you stand in Chandni Chowk.

Red Fort is yet another contribution of Shah Jahan, built in the 17th century when he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. Shah Jahan used to perform all his administrative duties at this fort. Red Fort is also listed in the World Heritage Site by the UNESCO authorities. The controversial Kohinoor diamond used to reside here, before it was displaced. Whether the diamond was stolen or given away is yet a controversial issue. The Lahori Gate is the main gate to the palace. Flag hoisting takes place right up head this gate, with hundreds of spectators as the Prime Minister proudly hoist the flag on Independence day. 

The Red Fort gives a peek of the Royal lifestyle led by the Mughals, with well-maintained gardens and many other smaller mahals that are encapsulated in the Red Fort including Mumtaz Mahal, Khas Mahal, and Rang Mahal. Our Multilingual Guide narrates the rich history behind the spectacular views on tour.

The most iconic attraction of Delhi, the Red Fort is another splendid piece of architecture built by Shahjahan. Completed in the year 1648, it nearly took 8 years to complete this majestic structure. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it was the site for various conquests by several dynasties including the Mughals, Afghans, Marathas and the British. Standing upon an area of 255 acres of land, the fort has huge walls towering at a height between 59 to 108 feet. A fine example of Mughal architecture it housed various ornaments, jewels, lushful gardens, palaces which were devastated by invading forces.

A Mughal-style mosque with 40m high minarets. Also known as Masjid-I-Jahan-Numa which translates to ‘the mosque with a commanding view of the world’, was built by nearly 5000 workers under the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. The word ‘Jama’ roughly translates to Friday and hence it is also called as the Friday Mosque.

The interiors of the Mosque will help you know more about the structure which is constructed from fine red sandstone and white marble. A 16th-century monument, it can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers at a time. Jama Masjid is considered as the largest mosque in India with an area of about 408 square km.

An opulent red-sandstone tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun, built in 1572 by Empress Haji Begum, it is located at Nizamuddin East in Delhi. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is an exceptional representation of Mughal Architecture and one of the structure following the tradition of Emperors being cremated in magnificent gardens. Reaching a height of 47-meters,the structure is the first Indian building to hold a double layered dome heavily influenced by the Persian Architectural style. Spread across 30-acres of land, it took eight years to build this monument which also contain a quadrilateral persian style garden known as Char Bagh (Four Gardens). The brainstrom of persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, it eventually housed tombs of forthcoming generations related to Mughal family. Due to this it is also called as 'dormitory of the mughals'.

Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden-tomb built in India by Persian architect named Mirak Mirza Ghiyath. Commissioned by the first wife and chief consort of Humanyun, Bega Begum, the tomb complex houses more than 100 tombs whose identities remain uncertain.

The Bahá'í House of Worship also known as the Lotus Temple will give a touch of divinity and its infrastructure will leave an impression upon you. It is a house of worship open to everyone irrespective of their religious or racial background. With a capacity of accommodating 2,500 people, the temple is an infrastructural marvel composed of 27 free-standing marble clad formations in the shape of petals. Considered as one of the most visited places in the world, it attracted about 100 million visitors in the year 2014.

The Bahá'í House of Worship also known as the Lotus Temple will give a touch of divinity and its infrastructure will leave an impression upon you. It is a house of worship open to everyone irrespective of their religious or racial background. With a capacity of accommodating 2,500 people, the temple is an infrastructural marvel composed of 27 free-standing marble clad formations in the shape of petals.

Imposing Arc de Triomphe-style gate commemorating the Indian soldiers killed in the First World War, the India Gate is one of the most exceptional war memorials in the world. It also resembles the architectural design of the Arch of Constantine located in Rome. With a diameter of 625 metres, the gate complex is sprawled area of approximately 306,000 square meters. The Republic Day parade starts from the Presidential Palace and moves around the India Gate.  Unveiled by Indian Viceroy Lord Irwin, the names of 13,300 soldiers are carved on it in minute inscriptions. An ultimate destination for architecture lovers, it proudly hosts the Republic Day parade every year.

A war memorial built-in 1931 to commemorate the fallen Indian soldiers. The 42-meter high memorial designed by architect Edwin Lutyens is the largest war memorial in India. Beneath its archway lies the Amar Jawan Jyoti known as the Flame of Immortal Soldier. Surrounded by 4 eternal flames it is a simple structure paying tribute to the unknown soldiers died on the battlefields.

Qutub Minar is the the tallest individual minaret in the world and second tallest monument of Delhi is 73m high. It was built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak subsequent to defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. The construction was continued by other rulers after his death. Even a look at this delightful monument will take you back to the rich heritage of India. It has five distinct stories and the first three are made of red sandstone. The rest two are built with marble and sandstone. The first ever mosque built in India is also located in Qutub Minar and is known as Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque.

Besides Qutub Minar, the complex has other things to offer such as the Iron Pillar. One can never get enough of the magnificent architecture of the complex itself. As you will explore it more and more, it'll compel you to dive deeper into the history of India.

Standing tall at a height of 73 meters, the tower is the largest brick minaret in the world. It houses a 2000-year-old iron pillar which was built upon the foundations of a Hindu temple. A 5-storey victory tower with balconies, it was built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom.

One of the largest temples in India and the first in Delhi, the Laxmi Narayan Temple is astonishing in its own way. Built in 1939 and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, the temple complex is an epitome of Hindu culture which houses shrines of not only Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi but also shrines of other Hindu deities. An intricate Nagora-style architectural structure spread over an area of 7.5 acres, it also showcases gardens, fountains as well as glorious statues of rulers like Shivaji Maharaj and Chandragupta Maurya.

Built in 1754, the tomb of Safadarjung in the final resting place of the last prominent Mughal prime minister, Mirza Muqim Abul Mansur Khan. It is one of the last garden tomb built before the downfall of Mughal empire. An elegant piece of Mughal architecture, it is a three-domed structure which consists of traditional Char Bagh gardens and numerous water channel.

India's grand Parliament building, has 144 sandstone columns in a circular design. The administrative nerve center of the country, the Parliament House is a historic landmark built in 1927 by British Architect Edward Lutyens. It is an important site for the representatives of the public and holds historical as well as political significance. It houses the diplomatic chambers of legislative assembly known as Lok Sabha and the State Council known as Rajya Sabha. (Image Source: Wikipedia)

Set in lush parkland, this black marble platform marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. Situated on the west bank of Yamuna river, it is located near Delhi's Ring road also known as Mahatma Gandhi Road. Across Kishan Ghat road in the North of Raj Ghat, beautiful and serene gardens contain Gandhi Darshan, an area which displays the photos relating to the Mahatma. Raj Ghat is surrounded by other notable memorials of former heads of the state and prominent politicians including Jawaharlal Nehru, Lala Bahadur Shashtri, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Shankar Dayal Sharma and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Raj Ghat the place where the "Father of the Nation" - Mahatma Gandhi was cremated.An eternal flame burns upon the platform made of black marble which shows the place of cremation. Located on the west bank of Yamuna river, it is spread across an area of 5 acres.

The Viceregal Lodge was the official summer residence of the then Viceroy of India. It was built by Henry Irwin in 1888 under the reign of Viceroy Lord Dufferin. The architecture portrays the Jacobethan style prominent in England during that time. It houses old photos, paintings, and artifacts dating back to the period of British rule in India. After Independence, it was converted as the official summer residence of the President of India known as Rashtrapati Niwas. It was later granted to the Indian Institute of Advanced Study for academic purposes.

Himachal State Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shimla. In contrast with the scenic sights and adventure activities, the museum offers a cultural touch to the journey. Built as a residence for former military secretary of Viceroy of India, it was later converted into a museum in the year 1974. It houses several artifacts consisting of age-old coins, paintings, and antiques. A doll gallery is a place that leaves the visitors in awe that showcases numerous bridal dolls on display. It also exhibits a sculpture gallery with stone images dating back to the 8th century. With over 10,000 books and magazines from all around the world, the museum also sports a magnificent library.

Built-in the year 1750, the Ramnagar Fort was established by Maharaja Balwant Singh. Designed prominently as a fortification, the structure stands for warfare situations. An elegant Mughal style architecture brings out the beauty of the fort from all the angles. Standing on an elevated ground, the fort lies on the eastern bank of river Ganga and hence becomes inaccessible during flooding. Various carvings, balconies, pavilions, and beautiful courtyards are well fitted in and around the fort. Host to various Hindu festivals such as Ram Navmi and Dushhera, only one part of the fort is accessible to the public while the rest is the official residence of the royal family. Adjoining to the fort is the royal museum which is a popular attraction. Vintage cars, ivory works, religious manuscripts, and ancient weaponry incorporate the exhibition of the museum. Due to its magnificent location, it is used as a frequent shooting spot for various films and television shows.

An 18th-century massive fort which is located on the eastern banks of river Ganga. Built by Raja Balwant SIngh, it is houses magnificent courtyards, ceremonial rooms, temples and elegant museum. Used as a prominent film making location, various Hindu festivals are celebrated here on a grand scale.

Birbal Bhavan also known as Birbal Palace is a famous attraction of Fatehpur Sikri. Believed to be built by or for Birbal, the advisor of Emperor Akbar. A unique monument which is a mixture of Mughal and Persian architectural styles, it consists of beautiful gardens and lawns.

The former residence of the eighth Sikh guru, Guru Har Krishan is known as Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. Located near the Connaught Palace, it was built in 1783 as a small shrine by Sikh General Sardar Bhagel Singh Dhariwal during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Shah Aalam II. A magnificent monument, its golden dome and towering flagpole known as Nishaan Sahib stand gloriously visible to the visitors. It also as a sacred pond complex which is considered holy by the sikh pilgrims called the Sarovar.

The residence of the President of India located at Rajpath, Delhi, is considered as one of the largest official residences of any head of the states across the world. Spread across an area of 330 acres in total, it was designed by British architect, Sir Edward Lutyens and Herbert Baker.

The Official residence of the President of India, it was formerly the residence of the Viceroy of British India. Spread across the area of 130 hectares, it consists of 320 rooms, large Mughal style gardens, fountains and open spaces.

This beautiful heritage walk will give you insights into the ruined city of Jahanpanah. An enthralling and spectacular experience as you relive the times during the reign of the most ingenious emperors of India, Muhammad bin Tughluq. Witness the mesmerizing storytelling of one of the ancient cities in the Old Delhi district. It was the fourth walled-city built with fortifications after Siri, Lal Kot, and Tughlaqabad. The sole purpose of establishing this city was to protect the Sultanate from invading Mongols. Home to several monuments, the name Jahanpanah in Persian means 'The Refuge of the World'. Explore the crumbled remains of this old city which includes monuments like Adilabad fort, Begampur Mosque, Bijay Mandal Palace, Kalusarai Mosque, Serai Shaji Mahal, and much more. Each of the monuments offers mystical background stories and facts good enough to enchant you. It is believed that the city was left in ruin due to the change of capital to Daulatabad or the fall of the Tughlaq Dynasty. You will get to discover theatrical performances based on the life of Emperor Muhammad bin Tughluq. His visions, ideas, and day-to-day practices will leave you in awe about this long-gone personality. 

The marvellous heritage walk will leave you in awe, as you explore the ancient walled city of Jahanpanah. Experience the enchanting storytelling in this tour which will make you relive the moments of the Tughlaq empire. Apart from checking out numerous monuments, discover the reality behind the dual life of Emperor Muhammad bin Tughluq with a spectacular theatrical performance.

Witness the dynamism of Old Delhi in this splendid heritage walk. This tour will take to the battered and age-old gates of Delhi. Out of the 14 gates, only 5 stand currently with all that is left of them. The most prominent being the Turkman Gate which is located near the Ram Leela Maidan. Named after the Sufi saint Shah Turkman Bayabani, it houses the tomb of the respective saint till date. Old Delhi is well-known for its Pigeon keeping and breeding tradition. Listen to captivating stories of pigeon fights by a bird keeper near the Turkman Gate. An 8th-century monument, Turkman Gate is believed to be built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a part of his city Shahjahanabad. It is home to exclusive handicrafts works housing shops selling various kinds of beads. Get a chance to interact with the local shopkeepers and get to know intriguing stories about the past. Later, brace yourself for compelling storytelling of the Razia Sultan known as the only female ruler of Delhi. A fulfilling tour is full of extravagance that will leave you wanting for more.

This iconic heritage walk will take you beyond the mystic Gates of Delhi. Explore the longstanding and the oldest Gate in Old Delhi, Turkman Gate. Get around and hear the intriguing stories related to the place. Enchanting tales of local pigeon fights and ancient markets will leave you spellbound. Appreciate the vast history of this region as you conclude this tour with the gripping tale of Razia Sultan, India's Only female Muslim ruler at that time.

This heritage walk brings to you the magnificent exploration of Red fort along with the theatrical performance regarding the war of succession for the Mughal Throne. Witness the Red Fort with all its radiance and the elegance of its architecture. The theatrical performance includes the reenactment of one of the most intriguing and gruesome battles in Mughal history. This war was fought between the four sons of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan inorder the succeed him as the king since the former was gravely ill. Participants of the battle were the eldest son of Shah Jahan, Dara Shikoh, Shah Shuja, Murad Baksh and Aurangzeb. After defeating Shah Shuja and Murad Baksh, the ultimate battle for the throne was fought between Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh both aided by their sisters. The dramatic performance depicts the legendary tussle between Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh aided by their sisters Roshen Ara Begum and Jahan Ara Begum respectively. Enjoy the alluring glimpses of the Red Fort with a decorative performance to be remembered for a long time.

This compelling heritage walk will take you into the abstract and haunting realms of Salimgarh Fort. Built-in 1546 AD, Salim Shah Suri it was later captured by Mughal Emperor Humayun. Later it was converted into a state prison by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Walk through the battered and deserted bastions of the fort were numerous prisoners are believed to be tortured to death while some lost their lives eventually. Also, brace yourself for the enigmatic theatrical performance depicting the life of Zebunissa. The eldest and the most beloved daughter of Emperor Aurangzeb, she was imprisoned for 20 years until her death. Ruthlessly and wrongly accused of treason, she wrote thousand of Sufi poetic verses and was known by her pen name Makhfi. Witness the dramatic spectacle of her life unraveling right in front of your eyes.

Connaught Place is the most commercially active and busiest street in New Delhi. It boasts a more extravagant nightlife than that of Mumbai. Home to a wide array of bars, clubs, restaurants and high-end shops, it is a prime destination for rich and sophisticated experience in the heart of New Delhi. In contrast with the calm heritage sites of Old Delhi, Connaught Place offers a vibrant and exuberant heritage full of contemporary art exhibits, antique galleries, top-notch cinemas, and swanky nightclubs. It also houses one of the most expensive business centers in the world. A shopping hub, Connaught is the place where life feels like a party.

This is a full-day exclusive tour offering you phenomenal glimpses of the City of Dreams - Mumbai. Facing the Arabian Sea, Mumbai offers countless opportunities to explore and thus we bring together all the best destinations to show every nook and corner of India's Financial Capital. A microcosm of all religions, communities, and ethnicities, this small island would seem to you like a country whose culture is a blend of almost everything. From historical monuments to modern-day engineering marvels, Mumbai is a place where even the sky is no limit as you find buildings everywhere. Diverse demographics and population have heavily influenced its cuisine as you get to savor its famous street food and delicacies found nowhere else. From Vadapav to Pav Bhaji, your tastebuds would thrive to try the list of cuisine which is endless. Also dubbed as the 'City that never sleeps', Mumbai is home to the Hindi film industry known as Bollywood. A significant place for the Indian Independence Movement, the history of Mumbai is witness to celebrations, tragedies, and major events. The ultimate center of major festivals of India, Mumbai vigourously celebrates festivals belonging to every religious sect especially the renowned Ganesh Chaturthi. A city that every Indian wish to visit once in a lifetime, would give you some of your most favorite memories.

A part of one of the several temples built by the Birla family, the Birla Temple of Jaipur is an iconic structure adding to the exotic landmarks of Jaipur. Built in 1988, this temple is the center of religious and ethnic secularism. While the main shrine of Laxmi Narayan houses the central part of the temples, the other sides are lined with sculptures of Buddha, Zarathustra and Christ. Made entirely out of white marble, this magnificient landmark is a always full of visitors.

For a secretariat building, Vidhana Soudha offers a beautiful treat to the eyes of the onlookers. A popular tourist attraction, Vidhana Soudha building is one of the most magnificent monuments in the city of Bangalore. Spread over an area of 60 acres, with lush gardens and intricate fountains, the structure portrays Neo-Dravidian style which also borrows elements from Indo-Saracenic architecture. Under the guidance of Kengal Hanumanthaiah, the foundation stone was laid down by the Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru and the then Chief Minister of Karnataka, K.C. Reddy. A structure so dynamic and grand, it is illuminated with yellow lights on Sundays. 

Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple is one of the most prominent temples amidst the ruins of Hampi. Dedicated to Hindu Elephant God, Lord Ganesha, the temple is a popular tourist attraction. It houses a majestic idol of the deity which is popularly believed to be one of the largest in the world. Towering about 15 feet high, it is a breathtaking monolithic sculpture. The name of the temple refers to the enormous belly of the idol, Kadalekalu. It roughly translates to Bengal gram in Kannada, as it resembles a similar shape.

Sasivekalu Ganesh Temple is another one of the popular temples among the ruins of Hampi. Similar to the Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple, this structure also houses an enormous idol of Hindu Lord Ganesha. A captivating sight for everyone, the sculpture towers in height of about 14 feet. Boasting an incredible design, the pillars of the temple display intricate designs showcasing ancient Hindu and mythological scriptures. The giant idol of Lord Ganesha is the prominent sight here with a snake tied to its belly. According to the legend, Lord Ganesha ate more than his usual capacity and so to prevent his belly from bursting, he tied a snake around his waist. A must-see spot for history buffs and devotees alike, this temple is more captivating than one can imagine. (Image Source: Mr.avinash.com)

The King's Balance is an iconic landmark in the ruins of Hampi, completely capable of mesmerizing everyone. An enormous granite weighing frame, it stands at a height of feet. Consisting of intricately carved pillars, it was extensively used on festivals and special occasions during the Vijayanagara period. It consists of hoops that were used to weigh the King along with precious gems, gold, and other valuable objects. Ornaments equivalent to the King's weight was then donated to the priests as a tradition in the form of a charity. Valiantly standing to date, the King's Balance is a popular tourist attraction and draws thousands of visitors from around the globe.

Built in the 14th-Century, the Old Pillar Bridge was a prominent connecting roadway on the Tungabhadra river during Vijayanagara empire. It was built by during the reign of King Harihara II. The purpose of the bridge was to help people cross the river whenever it changed its course for one point to another. Most of the bridge in is ruins now while only the pillars are left standing in a deserted landscape.

An ancient pavillion built back in the 15th-century, Purandardasa Mantapa is a monument located near the Vithala Temple of Hampi. It was built in memory of great poet named Purandardasa. It is believed that he composed more than 70,000 compositions while sitting on this very pavillion. The pavillion houses a small sculpture of Purandardasa. To celebrate the birth anniversary of the legendary poet, music festivals are organised every year near this pavillion.

About 1 km long, this age old area consists of numerous pavilions, chambers, shops and old houses. Currently housing shops for food and water, the site is desolate yet enchanting with the Virupaksha Temple standing on the eastern side. (Photo source: India mike)