World Tourism Day: These 10 heritage sites in India are a must-visit

Dholavira: A Harappan City

The southern centre of the Harappan Civilization, the ancient city of Dholavira is situated on the arid island of Khadirbet of Kutch District in Gujarat. The archaeological site is one of the best-preserved urban settlements from the period 3000-1500 BCE in Southeast Asia. It comprises of a fortified city and cemetery.

Fatehpur Sikri

Built by the Mughal emperor Akbar during the second half of the 16th century, Fatehpur Sikri, which translates to the City of Victory, is a complex of monuments and temples. It also has one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid. Located in Uttar Pradesh, it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for around 10 years.

Humayun’s Tomb

Built in 1570, this tomb is the first garden tomb of the Indian subcontinent. Located in the capital city of New Delhi, the architectural marvel inspired the building of the iconic Taj Mahal.

Khajuraho Temples

Khajuraho Temples. (Source: Unsplash)

Situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh, the Khajuraho temples were built during the reign of the Chandella dynasty between 950 and 1050. While only around 20 temples remain, they are dedicated to two religions– Hinduism and Jainism.

Rock shelters of Bhimbetka

Set on the foothills of the Vindhyan Mountains on the southern edge of the central Indian plateau, the Rock shelters of Bhimbetka are five clusters of natural rock shelters. Made of sandstone rocks, the site displays paintings, dating back to the Mesolithic Period.

Kaziranga Park

Home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinos, as well as many mammals such as tigers, elephants, panthers, and bears, the Kaziranga National Park in Assam is one of the last areas in Eastern India, which is undisturbed by human occupation. It also houses thousands of bird species, making it an ideal destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Park

Nestled on the hills of West Himalaya, the national park is known for its endemic alpine flowers and rich natural beauty. Home to rare and endangered species such as the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, brown bear and blue sheep, the area has a richly diverse flora and fauna.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Located in Maharashtra, these series of rock-cut temples and monasteries date back to the 2nd century BC. Known for their elaborate frescoes and sculptures, this heritage site beautifully depicts Buddhist and Hindu mythology.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST)

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST). (Source: Unsplash)

Previously known as Victoria Terminus (VT) Station, this is the epicentre of Mumbai’s local train system — making it the lifeline of the city. An outstanding example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in India, the building is a seamless blend of modern and traditional themes.

Churches and convents of Goa

The churches and convents of Goa illustrate the evangelisation of Asia. Especially the Church of Bom Jesus, which houses the tomb of Set Francis-Xavier, these monuments have been instrumental in spreading forms of Manuealine, Mannerist and Baroque art.

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