Today marks India’s Independence Day, and in honor of this colorful holiday, we’re bringing you five of India’s top sights to put on your travel list. Happy Independence Day, India!
Taj Mahal
As one of the most iconic monuments in the world, the Taj Mahal always draws a large crowd of visitors. It’s worth braving the crowds, though, to see this stunning mausoleum in person. Originally built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his third wife, the Taj Mahal has remained one of India’s most notable examples of art and architecture for centuries.
Mehrangarh Fort
The massive Mehrangarh Fort in the northwestern state of Rajasthan sits high above the desert city of Jodhpur as a lasting testament to the 15th century throne. The sand-washed walls of this looming fort are a stark contrast against the blue-topped buildings of the city below. Behind the grand walls lies a preserved palace, complete with gold-lined dancing halls, opulently decorated royal chambers and an armory filled with knives, swords, shields and guns.
Virupaksha Temple
What started as a small shrine in the seventh century has grown into one of Hinduism’s most sacred centers. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Virupaksha Temple towers at 165 feet with nine tiers of stone carvings and reliefs depicting Shiva’s various forms and Indian mythology. This architectural marvel also houses a Nandi pavilion and a sacred sanctuary.
Ajanta Caves
These ancient Buddhist cave temples and monuments date back to 200 B.C. but were abandoned in the seventh century. When the British rediscovered them in 1819, the cave monuments were in near pristine condition, showcasing some of the earliest Buddhist architecture and surviving examples of early Indian art. The caves are built into a cliff overlooking the Waghora River, and inside you’ll find vast Buddhist carvings, ancient decorative paintings and Buddha sculptures.
Sri Meenakshi Temple
Behind the 20-foot wall surrounding Sri Meenakshi Temples lies a sprawling complex with 12 gopurams, or immaculately decorated monumental towers. The outer wall of these towers is bursting with thousands of brightly colored depictions of Indian gods, heroes, demons and animals. Wander through the endless carved pillars in the Hall of a Thousand Pillars or hear the Musical Pillars, which each play a different note when tapped.
(Main image: rachel in wonderland used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
