India's history is very rich, and its past goes back more than five millennia! It is no wonder then that the world can learn a lot from the first cities
that already had efficient urban planning, like those of the Indus Valley or from magnificent and massive temples and monuments that were built by empires such as the Mauryas and Guptas. These landmarks provide insight into the people, culture, religion, and architecture, which were not only the most significant in India but also in the world. If you are a history buff or want to experience the past through the amazing sights, then this list of ancient Indian sites is the right place for you to start.
Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra
The Ajanta Caves, which go back to the 2nd century BCE, are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and are widely known for their rock-cut Buddhist temples. The detailed paintings and sculptures portray the life of Buddha as well as the society of ancient India and thus serve as a testimony to the art practiced for nearly a thousand years. They are a perfect source of knowledge about the Buddhist philosophy and culture that were very popular in ancient India.
Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh
The Sanchi Stupa, made in the 3rd century BCE by Emperor Ashoka, is among the earliest stone edifices in India. This monument dedicated to Buddhism is best known for the intricately decorated gateways or toranas that convey the events in Buddha’s life and the teachings through the pictures. The monument represents the spiritual heritage and the idea of peace derived from the earliest period of Indian history.
Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
Ellora caves are the religious sites from the 6th to 10th century CE, and are a testament to religious harmony as the caves house Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples that were carved one after the other in the rock. Among the rock-cut temples is the fantastic architecture of the Kailasa Temple, which many consider to be one of the largest single rock structures in the entire world.
Hampi, Karnataka
The former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire (14th–16th century CE) and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi seems to be out of the modern world. Travellers cannot help but admire the gigantic stone temples, royal complexes, and the landscape covered with huge rocks. Among others, the Virupaksha Temple and the Vittala Temple with their famous stone chariots are stunning and draw the most attention by far.
Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh
The Khajuraho group of temples was erected between 950 and 1050 CE and is well-known for its magnificent erotic sculptures and detailed depictions. The temples demonstrate the brilliance of the ancient architecture and are also a source of knowledge about the society, the religious beliefs, and the artistic practices of ancient India through their inscriptions and sculptures.
