List of Historical Monuments in India with Location

List of Historical Monuments in India: India’s Famous Historical Monuments of India are a testament to its rich cultural and architectural heritage, spanning various dynasties and rulers. Famous Historical Monuments of India are significant for their architectural grandeur and the historical events and cultural evolution they represent. India, a land steeped in history and culture, is home to some of the world’s most stunning and significant historical monuments.

The List of Historical Monuments of India is mentioned in the below table.

List of Historical Monuments in India

Indian soil has witnessed the rise of some of the wealthiest empires known to man. We are quite fortunate to have been left behind with the remnants of their greatest legacies in the form of Indian monuments that have withstood the ravages of time. Whether it’s the wonder of the world, a symbol of eternal love in the form of the Taj Mahal, or a stark reminder of the British’s 200-year-old colonization of India in the form of the Victoria Memorial, the architectural prowess these structures possess is hard to miss.

Top 10 Historical Monuments in India

Below is the List of Important Monuments of India.

Rank	Indian monuments	Location	Era	Architecture	Significance
Top 10 Historical Monuments in India
1	Taj Mahal	Agra, Uttar Pradesh	Mughal (17th century)	White marble mausoleum	Epitome of love and Mughal architecture
2	Ajanta and Ellora Caves	Aurangabad, Maharashtra	Maurya, Gupta, Chalukya (2nd century BC – 11th century AD)	Rock-cut cave temples and monasteries	Showcase of ancient Indian art and religion
3	Konark Sun Temple	Konark, Odisha	Eastern Ganga Dynasty (13th century)	Stone chariot in the form of a temple dedicated to the Sun God	Architectural marvel with intricate carvings and sculptures
4	Qutub Minar	Delhi	Delhi Sultanate (12th century)	Tallest brick minaret in the world	Tower marking the entry point to Qutub complex
5	Humayun’s Tomb	Delhi	Mughal (16th century)	Precursor to the Taj Mahal	Influenced Mughal garden tomb design
6	Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)	Amritsar, Punjab	Sikh (16th century)	Gilt-domed temple in the middle of a holy lake	Holiest shrine for Sikhs and a symbol of spiritual equality
7	Mysore Palace	Mysore, Karnataka	Wodeyar Dynasty (14th century – present)	Largest palace in India and a blend of architectural styles	Reflects the opulence of the Wodeyar dynasty
8	Meenakshi Temple	Madurai, Tamil Nadu	Pandya Dynasty (7th century)	Dravidian architecture with colorful gopurams (gate towers)	One of the largest and most ornate Hindu temples in India
9	Khajuraho Temples	Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh	Chandela Dynasty (10th – 11th century)	Group of Hindu and Jain temples known for their erotic sculptures	Blend of spiritual and sensual art
10	Sanchi Stupa	Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh	Maurya Empire (3rd century BC)	Oldest stone structure in India	Buddhist stupa showcasing early Indian art and architecture

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

This white marble mausoleum, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is the ultimate symbol of love and Mughal architecture. Its intricate details, reflecting pools, and serene gardens draw millions each year.

2. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Aurangabad

This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts over 30 rock-cut caves showcasing ancient Indian art and religion. Ajanta features breathtaking Buddhist murals, while Ellora houses Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain sculptures, offering a glimpse into diverse spiritual traditions.

3. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha

This 13th-century temple dedicated to the Sun God is shaped like a colossal chariot, its wheels once rotating with the sun’s movement. Its intricate carvings and architectural marvels, though weathered by time, remain awe-inspiring.

4. Qutub Minar, Delhi

This towering 73-meter brick minaret, the tallest in the world, was built in the 12th century. Its fluted design and Quranic inscriptions mark the entry point to the Qutub complex, a testament to Delhi’s rich history.

5. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

This 16th-century Mughal tomb served as a precursor to the Taj Mahal, influencing later Mughal garden tomb design. Its symmetrical layout, red sandstone facade, and serene gardens offer a peaceful escape in the heart of Delhi.

6. Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar

This gilded Sikh shrine, situated amidst a holy lake, is the holiest site for Sikhs worldwide. Its open doors, free meals for all visitors, and serene atmosphere reflect the values of equality and community.

7. Mysore Palace, Mysore

This opulent palace, the largest in India, blends various architectural styles like Indo-Saracenic and Gothic. Its gold-leaf gilded domes, intricate interiors, and beautifully lit gardens showcase the extravagance of the Wodeyar dynasty.

8. Meenakshi Temple, Madurai

This sprawling Dravidian temple complex is famed for its vibrant and colorful gopurams (gate towers), some reaching 51 meters. Its intricately carved sculptures, vibrant murals, and vibrant festivals provide a sensory overload for visitors.

9. Khajuraho Temples, Chhatarpur

This group of 10th-11th century Hindu and Jain temples is renowned for its erotic sculptures. While often misunderstood, these carvings symbolically represent the cycle of life and spiritual liberation.

10. Sanchi Stupa, Sanchi

This 3rd-century BC stupa, the oldest stone structure in India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its intricate carvings depicting stories from the life of Buddha and its graceful dome offer a glimpse into early Indian art and architecture.

Famous Historical Monuments In India – State Wise

Below is the list of the famous Historical Monuments In India – State Wise:

State	Monument	Location	Era/Style	Significance
Andhra Pradesh	Amaravati Maha Stupa	Guntur	3rd century BC – 2nd century AD	Buddhist stupa with intricate carvings and historical importance
	Golconda Fort	Hyderabad	16th – 17th centuries	Mughal-era fort with cannons and Qutb Shahi tombs, showcasing architectural prowess
Arunachal Pradesh	Tawang Monastery	Tawang	17th century	Largest Buddhist monastery in India, offering stunning mountain views and cultural immersion
	Kaziranga National Park	Golaghat, Nagaon, Karbi Anglong	No specific era	UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for one-horned rhinos and rich biodiversity
Assam	Kamakhya Temple	Guwahati	10th century onwards	Hindu temple dedicated to Kamakhya Devi, a revered Shakti goddess, attracting pilgrims and cultural enthusiasts
	Ahom Mani Mandir	Sibsagar	17th century	Ahom dynasty temple dedicated to Vishnu, showcasing unique architectural features and historical significance
Bihar	Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya	Bodh Gaya	3rd century BC	Buddhist temple marking the site of Buddha’s enlightenment, a pilgrimage site for many and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
	Nalanda University Ruins	Nalanda	5th – 13th centuries	Ruins of ancient Buddhist university, a center of learning and knowledge for centuries
Chhattisgarh	Khajuraho Temples	Chhatarpur	10th – 11th centuries	Group of Hindu and Jain temples renowned for their intricate carvings and erotic sculptures, offering a glimpse into ancient art and cultural expression
	Chitrakoot Falls	Dantewada	No specific era	Picturesque waterfall amidst dense forests, known for its natural beauty and religious significance as a pilgrimage site
Goa	Basilica of Bom Jesus	Old Goa	16th century	Church housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a landmark of Christian heritage and Portuguese colonial architecture
	Se Cathedral	Old Goa	16th century	Largest church in Goa, known for its blend of architectural styles and rich artistic details
Gujarat	Lothal, Indus Valley Civilization Site	Bhavnagar	2400-1900 BC	Ruins of an ancient Indus Valley city, offering insights into early Indian civilization and urban planning
	Dwarkadhish Temple	Dwarka	2nd century BC onwards	Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, considered one of the four dhams, attracting pilgrims and tourists with its architectural splendor
Haryana	Qutub Minar	Delhi	12th century	Tallest brick minaret in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a striking symbol of Delhi’s rich history
	Mehrangarh Fort	Jodhpur	15th century	Massive fort perched on a hilltop, overlooking Jodhpur, showcasing Rajput architectural style and offering panoramic views
Himachal Pradesh	Jakhoo Temple	Shimla	12th century	Temple dedicated to Hanuman, offering scenic views and religious significance, popular with tourists and locals
	Hidimba Devi Temple	Manali	7th century	Temple dedicated to the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata, known for its unique wooden architecture and location amidst natural beauty
Karnataka	Mysore Palace	Mysore	14th century – present	Largest palace in India, showcasing a blend of architectural styles and opulence, a major tourist attraction in Mysore
	Hampi Ruins	Hampi	14th – 16th centuries	Ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering historical significance and architectural marvels
Kerala	Padmanabhaswamy Temple	Thiruvananthapuram	8th century onwards	Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its architectural richness and immense wealth, drawing devotees and cultural enthusiasts
	Bekal Fort	Kasaragod	16th century	Picturesque fort overlooking the Arabian Sea, offering stunning views and a glimpse into coastal history

History of Indian Architecture During Different Periods – Important Facts for UPSC!

Find out the brief history of Indian architecture during different periods.

1. Indus Valley Civilization (around 2600–1900 BCE):

• Early urban planning and advanced architecture in cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa.
• Features included grid layouts, drainage systems, and brick construction.

2. Mauryan Empire (322–185 BCE):

• Stone structures like the Sanchi Stupa illustrate Buddhist influence and early Indian rock-cut architecture.
• Emperor Ashoka’s pillars and stupas played a pivotal role in architectural development.

3. Gupta Empire (4th–6th century CE):

• Known for the artistic flourishing visible in the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
• Rock-cut caves adorned with intricate murals and sculptures.

4. Arrival of Islamic Rulers:

• Indo-Islamic architectural styles emerged with landmarks like Qutub Minar and Jama Masjid in Delhi.
• A blend of Islamic, Persian, and Indian architecture.

5. Mughal Empire (16th–19th century CE):

• Witness the zenith of Indian architecture with masterpieces like the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and Humayun’s Tomb.
• Rich inlay work, extensive use of marble, and expansive gardens.

6. South Indian Architecture:

• Dravidian temple architecture is found in regions like Mahabalipuram and Thanjavur.
• Characterized by towering gopurams, large temple complexes, and intricate stone carvings.

7. British Colonial Period:

• Introduced Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Indian and European styles.
• Examples include Victoria Memorial and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.

8. Post-Independence Era:

• Focused on preserving and restoring ancient monuments.
• Many sites have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ensuring their protection and conservation.

Oldest Historical Monuments of India

The Great Bath of Mohenjo-Daro, one of the oldest historical monuments in India.

Age and Civilization:

• Dates back to around 2600–1900 BCE, during the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Located in what is now modern-day Pakistan.

Architectural Significance:

• One of the earliest known public water tanks in human history.
• Demonstrates the advanced urban planning and engineering skills of the time.

Dimensions and Construction:

• It measures about 12 meters in length, 7 meters in width, and 2.4 meters in depth.
• Constructed using finely fitted bricks.

Engineering Features:

• Includes a sophisticated system of terracotta pipes, indicating advanced water management techniques.
• Cultural and ceremonial importance:
• Believed to have served a ceremonial or religious purpose.
• Highlights the cultural significance of water in ancient Indus Valley society.

Latest Historical Monuments of India

1. The Statue of Unity, standing at an impressive 182 meters, is indeed a remarkable architectural achievement. It is located in Gujarat.
2. It surpasses the height of the Spring Temple Buddha in China, which was previously the world’s tallest statue.
3. The statue was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018 to honor Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a pivotal figure in India’s independence movement and its first Deputy Prime Minister.
4. This colossal statue not only represents Patel’s legacy but also symbolizes the unity of India, reflecting his role in uniting various states into a single nation.
5. The engineering and artistic feats involved in its construction are a testament to modern architectural capabilities.

List of Important Monuments of India – FAQs

How Many Historical Monuments Are There In India?

There are thousands! From ancient temples and forts to colonial buildings and archaeological sites, it’s impossible to provide an exact number.

What is the importance of historical monuments in India?

Studying and analyzing ancient Indian culture and architecture are significantly enriched by the presence of historical monuments. These structures serve as the essence of India’s heritage, providing valuable insights into the country’s historical background.

Which State Is Famous For Historical Sites?

Several states boast a rich historical tapestry, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha.

Which Is The No. 1 Monument In India?

This is subjective, but the Taj Mahal often receives top recognition for its architectural beauty, historical significance, and universal appeal.

Which Is The Oldest Monument In India?

The Sanchi Stupa, dating back to the 3rd century BC, is considered the oldest stone structure in India.

When Was The Taj Mahal Built?

Construction began in 1632 and took approximately 22 years.