Word Street Journal

Do antiquities intrigue you? Are you a Historophile who wants to explore history through the ages? How about traveling to historical locations in India and beholding significant heritage sites?

From the incredible Taj Mahal in Agra to the Red Fort in Old Delhi, India is full of ancient places and landmarks. You can visit magnificent forts, ancient temples, and several tombs that are architectural gems. 

Imagine witnessing the timeless beauty of historical monuments and appreciating the marvelous architecture of archaeological ruins. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, you could quickly turn it into reality by taking a trip to India’s most popular Historical Destinations.

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While making your itinerary and packing your bag, look at these 10 handpicked destinations in India that take you back in time. 

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Want to drown in history? What’s better than heading off to the oldest city in the world? Built more than 5000 years ago, this spiritual capital of India is home to architecturally unique forts, century-old temples, and sacred ghats.

You can visit the Ramnagar Fort, built in 1750 by Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh, or relive history at the ghats that date back to the 14th century. 

Best time to visit Varanasi: November to March

Known for: Ganga Ghats, Kashi Vishwanath Temple

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Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Home to the world-famous Taj Mahal, Agra is a city full of historical monuments, mosques, forts, and tombs.

People from across the globe visit this historic city to delve into the past and visit archaeological sites like the Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, Jahangir Mahal, Jama Masjid, and Shah Burj.

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You can also visit the tombs of Mughal Emperors and officials like Shah Jahan, Akbar the Great, and Mirza Ghiyas Beg (Itimad-ud-Daulah). 

Best time to visit Agra: Throughout the year, but avoid going during peak summers.

Known for: Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, Tomb of Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Delhi

A perfect destination for lovers of antiquity, the National capital of India has numerous monuments, forts, buildings, and sites that will take you down memory lane.

It is surrounded by World Heritage Sites like Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and The Red Fort. Moreover, Delhi makes history come alive with its iconic architecture.

India Gate, Agrasen Ki Baoli, Purana Qila, Jantar Mantar, Hauz Khas Fort, and Rashtrapati Bhavan are some of Delhi’s most prominent tourist attractions. 

Best time to visit Delhi: October-March

Known for: Mughal Architecture, century-old ruins, and ancient forts.

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Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Undeniably, there are numerous historical sites in Rajasthan that are extremely popular across the world. However, Jaisalmer is a place that transcends time most magnificently.

This princely state, surrounded by the Great Indian Thar desert, is one place you should definitely visit on your journey of exploring historic Indian places.

Also called the ‘Golden City,’ Jaisalmer is known for its yellow sandstone architecture and heritage sites like Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Jaisalmer War Museum, and ancient Jain temples.

Best time to visit: November to March

Known for: Grand forts and palaces.

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Kolkata, West Bengal

Did you know that Kolkata was India’s capital under the British Raj during the 1700s? Known for its revolutionary history, Kolkata (also known as Calcutta) is a hub of colonial architecture, historical palaces, art galleries, and cultural festivals.

This ‘city of palaces’ is home to various historical monuments, forts, and heritage sites. From Victoria Memorial and Marble Palace to Raj Bhavan and Town Hall, Kolkata’s architectural magnificence will surprise the history buff in you. 

Best time to visit Kolkata: October to February 

Known for: Howrah Bridge, Fort William, Belur Math

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Madhya Pradesh

Immensely popular for its majestic palaces, centurial forts, ancient temples, and mosques, Madhya Pradesh is a must-visit destination for everyone who loves to experience the unique charm of historic places.

From the world-famous temples of Khajuraho to the great Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh never fails to impress you with its antiquity. Don’t forget to visit the historic Gwalior Fort, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, and Omkareshwar Temple. 

Best time to visit Madhya Pradesh: November to February

Known for: Khajuraho Temples

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Amritsar, Punjab

Founded by Sri Guru Ram Das in 1579, Amritsar is another historical destination in India. This place sings songs of ancient history and tells stories of India’s tragic chapters from the past.

Amritsar’s historical significance is unmatchable with heritage sites like the Golden Temple, Gobindgarh Fort, Wagah Border, and Tarn Taran Sahib. To witness India’s well-preserved pride and sacrifice, you must visit this sacred city.  

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Known for: Jallianwala Bagh, Golden Temple

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Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Peak into the past and revisit history by taking a trip to this historical destination in India. Home to Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, Sunheri Mahal, and Bani Begum Garden, Aurangabad is surrounded by heritage sites and monuments. 

Best time to visit Aurangabad: October to March 

Known for: Aurangabad Caves, Buddist Caves

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Puri, Orissa

Be it century-old temples like Jagannath, Sakshigopal, Vimala, or Alarnatha or ancient Indian villages like Ankula, Balihunka, or Bankilo, Puri is surrounded by historical and religious sites. You must visit places like Barabati Fort and Khandagiri Caves to witness some charming architecture. 

Best time to visit Puri: October to February 

Known for: Shri Jagannath Temple

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Hyderabad

Originally called Baghnagar’ city of gardens’, Hyderabad was founded by the Qutb Shahi Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in 1591 CE.

It is one of India’s most prominent tourist attractions because of magnetic historical sites like the grand Charminar, Chowmahalla Palace, Falaknuma Palace, and Toli Masjid. If you want to dive into a rich historical legacy, you must visit Hyderabad at least once in your lifetime. 

Best time to visit Hyderabad: October to March

Known for: Charminar, Century-old palaces

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Final Takeaway

India’s history, ancient architecture, heritage sites, and archaeological ruins make it so incredible. Every corner of this country has a story to tell, a history to witness, and a vibe to feel.

If you want to remember the past, visit the preserved cultural heritage, and learn about this diverse country, pack your bags and visit these historic places.