Monuments of India - Archaeological Sites

Archaeological Sites
MONUMENTS OF INDIA
The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958
defines an ‘ Ancient Monument ’ as follows:-
Ancient Monument means any structure, erection or monument, or any
tumulus or place of interment, or any cave, rock-sculpture, inscription or
monolith which is of historical, archaeological or artistic interest and
which has been in existence for not less than 100 years and includes—
#1 Remains of an ancient monument,
#2 Site of an ancient monument,
#3 Such portion of land adjoining the site of an ancient monument as
may be required for fencing or covering in or otherwise preserving such
monument, a
#4 The means of access to, and convenient inspection of, an ancient
monument;

.
THE TAJ MAHAL
Ø The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his
wife Mumtaj Mahal.
Ø It was completed in 1653 with then estimated cost of 32 million Indian
rupees.
Ø It is located at the bank of river Yamuna in Agra, in the state of Uttar
Pradesh.
Ø It is considered worldwide as the best example that combines elements
of Mughal, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian architectural styles
and is called the “Jewel of Muslim Art in India”.
Ø Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

t
White Marble Monument of Mughal Architecture, the Taj Mahal
was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife
Mumtaj Mahal. It is located at the bank of river Yamuna in Agra,
in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It was completed in 1653 with then
estimated cost of 32 million Indian rupees which would today
stand up to 58 billion Indian rupees. It is considered worldwide as
the best example that combines elements of Mughal, Persian,
Ottoman Turkish and Indian architectural styles and is called the
“Jewel of Muslim Art in India”. This is probably the monument
that is most recognized the world over for its association with the
heritage of India.
THE TAJ MAHAL

AGRA FORT UTTAR PRADESH
Ø Agra Fort was constructed with red sandstone by the
third Mughal emperor Akbar on the remains of an
ancient site known as Badalgarh.
Ø It was begun by Akbar between 1565 and 1573.
Ø Agra Fort is located (270 10’ 47’’N & 780 1’ 22’’ E) on
the right bank of the river Yamuna in the city of Agra
in Uttar Pradesh.
Ø It is one of the most important and robustly built
stronghold of the Mughals, embellished with number of
richly decorated buildings encompassing the imposing
Mughal style of art and architecture.
Ø It is the UNESCO World Heritage Site. (1983)

It was constructed by the third Mughal emperor Akbar on the remains of an
ancient site known as Badalgarh. Sikandar Lodi (1487-1517) was the first
Sultan of Delhi to shift his capital from Delhi to Agra. After Sikandar Lodi who
died in 1517, his son Ibrahim Lodi held the fort for 9 years until he was
defeated and killed in the battle of Panipat in 1526. Several palaces, wells and a
mosque were built in the fort during the Lodi period. When Babur sent his son
Humayun to Agra, he captured the fort and seized a vast treasure, which
included the world famous ‘Koh-i-noor’ diamond as well. Babur built a baoli
(step-wall) here. Humayun was coronated here in 1530. After Humayun’s defeat
at Bilgram in 1540, Sher Shah of the Sur dynasty occupied Agra fort and
garrisoned it. Akbar arrived in Agra in 1558. He ordered to renovate the fort
with red sandstone. Some 4000 builders daily worked on it and it was
completed in 8 years (1565-1573).
Most of these buildings have now disappeared. Shah Jahan himself demolished
some of these in order to make room for his white marble palaces. Later, the
British destroyed most of the buildings for raising barracks. Hardly 30 Mughal
buildings have survived on the south eastern side. Of these, the Delhi-Gate,
Akbari-Gate and ‘Bengali-Mahal’, are representative of buildings raised during
the reign of Akbar.

Ø Known as the “city of victory”, it was made capital by the Mughal emperor Akbar
(1556-1605 AD) and constructed between 1571 and 1573 AD.
Ø FatehpurSikri is located in Agra District in the State of Uttar Pradesh in the North East
of India.
Ø The name of the city itself denotes the victory (Fateh) of Akbar over Chittor and
Ranthambore, FatehpurSikri constitutes of four main Monuments. The Jama Masjid,
The BulandDarwaza,Panch Mahal which is also considered as the origin place of the
Navaratnas (Birbal, Tansenetc).
Ø The architectural style of the buildings is a beautiful amalgamation of the indigenous
and Persian style.The city of FatehpurSikri demonstrates the most spectacular building
activities which bears an exceptional testimony to the Mughal civilization at the end of
16th century AD.
Ø It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.(1986)

The name of the city itself denotes the victory (Fateh) of Akbar over Chittor
and Ranthambore, Fatehpur Sikri constitutes of four main Monuments. The
Jama Masjid, The Buland Darwaza which is the greatest door of Asia made
of a specific wood imported from Australia which would sink in water.
Panch Mahal or Jada Baai ka Mahal, which is also considered as the origin
place of the Navaratnas (Birbal, Tansen etc). It also contains the Diwan-e-
khas and Diwan-e-aam. Interior to the Buland Darwaza lays the Tomb of
Salim Chishti. All these Mughal buildings are a part of the World Heritage
Sites in India.
FATEH PUR SIKRI

QUTAB MINAR
Ø The tall minaret was built by the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, Qutub-ud-din
Aibak of the Mamluk Dynasty and was later completed by his successor
Iltutmish.
Ø It was constructed in 1192.
Ø The QutabMinar is in Delhi and is one of the several other buildings located
within the Qutab complex, and it occupies the center stage mainly due to its
height
Ø The verses from the holy Qur'an are carved on sandstone walls of
QutubMinar. The soaring conical tower is an exquisite example of Indo-
Islamic-Afghan Architecture.
Ø It is a World Heritage Site. (1993)

The Qutab MinarThe Qutab Minar complex includes:
Qutab Minar, Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, Qubbat-ul-Islam Mosque, Tomb of Iltumish,
and Iron Pillar.
Qutub Minar in Delhi is world heritage site and has survived the ravages of time
impressively. The tall minaret was constructed in 1192 by the first Muslim ruler of
Delhi, Qutub-ud-din Aibak of the Mamluk Dynasty, after defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu
Kingdom and later completed by his successor Iltutmish.. The Qutab Minar is one of
the several other buildings located within the Qutab complex, and it occupies the
center stage mainly due to its height. It is 73 meter tall and has a diameter of 14.32 m
at the base and 2.75 m at the top. It was built by Aibak to honor the famous Sufi saint
Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. The soaring conical tower is an exquisite example of Indo-
Islamic Afghan architecture.
The tower is so high that around 379 steps are needed to be climbed to reach the top.
The verses from the holy Qur'an are carved on sandstone walls of Qutub Minar. This
monument serves the purpose of calling people for prayer in the Quwwat-ul-Islam
mosque. This is a tower of victory, a monument that signify the might of Islam, or a
tower for keeping a check for defense.
Next to Qutub Minar is the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, which was built on the ruins of
the Lal Kot of the previous Hindu kingdom and is known to be one of the first
mosques in the country. It is also famous for its brick minarets surrounding it. These
monuments are collectively known as the Qutub Minar Complex and represent one of
the earliest known symbols for Islamic Architecture in India.

HUMAYUN’S TOMB
Ø The Humayun’s Tomb was built by Bega Begum, with the patronage of Humayun’s
son, the great Emperor Akbar.
Ø It was built from 1562-72.
Ø Humayun’s garden-tomb is an example of the charbagh– a garden setting inspired
by the description of paradise in the Holy Quran.
Ø It was designed by a Persian architect Mirak mirza Ghiyas and is an excellent
example for the excellent Mughal Architecture.
Ø The Tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

HUMAYUN’S TOMB
HUMAYUN’S TOMB
This tomb, built in 1570, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-
tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It inspired several major architectural innovations,
culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal
Brief Synthesis
Humayun’s Tomb, the World Heritage Sites in India, was built in the 1560’s, with the
patronage of Humayun’s son, the great Emperor Akbar. Persian and Indian craftsmen
worked together to build the garden-tomb, far grander than any tomb built before in
the Islamic world.
The Tomb stands within a complex that includes other contemporary, 16th century
Mughal garden-tombs such as Nila Gumbad, Isa Khan Niyazi, an Afghan noble in Sher
Shah Suri’s court of the Suri dynasty, Bu Halima, Afsarwala, Barber’s Tomb and the
complex where the craftsmen employed for the Building of Humayun’s Tomb stayed,
the Arab Serai.
Humayun’s garden-tomb is an example of the charbagh – a garden setting inspired by
the description of paradise in the Holy Quran. The garden is entered from lofty
gateways on the south and from the west with pavilions located in the center of the
eastern and northern walls. The garden tomb is also called the ‘dormitory of the
Mughals’ as in the cells are buried over 150 Mughal family members. The tomb stands
in an extremely significant archaeological setting, centered at the Shrine of the 14th
century Sufi Saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya.It is the only monument which has
undergone several restoration works and is complete. The Humayun’s Tomb of Delhi is
managed by Archaeological survey of India and is an excellent example, of above, all

RED FORT
Ø Situated in the center of the historic city of New Delhi, the Red Fort was built by
Emperor Shah Jahan.
Ø It took about nine years to complete the construction of the fort from 1639 to
1648 for the Mughal ruler.
Ø The Red Fort Delhi is a mesmerizing piece of architecture, lying on the banks of
Yamuna River, whose water was used for the moat that surround the wall.
Ø The feature of the fort that it was made up of large sand stone of red color gave
it the name Red Fort.
Ø In 2007, UNESCO included the Red Fort in the list of World Heritage Site.
(2007)

RED FORT
Situated in the center of the historic city of New Delhi, the Red Fort was
built by Emperor Shah Jahan. Mughal ruler Shah Jahan, when in 1639,
shifted the capital of his empire from Agra to Delhi in order to heighten
the esteem of his regime and fulfill his motivated building plans, a new
city named Shahjahanabad was founded which we today see as Delhi or
more specifically Old Delhi. Along came the foundation of a fort called
Red Fort in the northern side of the town.
The fort became the political hub of the Mughals. Under Shah Jahan,
Mughal art and architecture reached its zenith, and the Red Fort is the
perfect example of that. It took about nine years to complete the
construction of the fort from 1639 to 1648 for the Mughal ruler. Red
Fort was utilized as the residential purpose by the Mughal ruler but was
also capital of Mughal rulers till the regime of Bahadur Shah Zafar. In
2007, UNESCO included the Red Fort in the list of World Heritage Site.
The feature of the fort that it was made up of large sand stone of red
color gave it the name Red Fort.
Bahadur Shah Zafar was the last ruler from Mughal to inhabit the Red
Fort Delhi till 1857, when the uprising gave way for the British to
occupy the fort. After the debacle of the rebellion of 1857, Bahadur
Shah Zafar left the Red Fort in September but was forced to return for
the trial in the fort in January 1858, which resulted in him getting exiled

JANTAR MANTAR
JAIPUR, RAJASTHAN

JANTAR MANTAR
Ø It is an astronomical observatory which was built by the Rajput King Sawai
Jai Singh of Rajasthan.
Ø It was built in 1738.
Ø The JantarMantar in Jaipur is an outstanding example of a very
comprehensive set of astronomical instruments, in the heart of a royal capital
at the end of the Mughal period in India.
Ø It is an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the
court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period.
Ø It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (2010)

The Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built in 18th century
Rajasthan. It is an astronomical observatory which was built by the Rajput
King Sawai Jai Singh of Rajasthan in 1738 CE. It is a collection of 19
astronomical instruments including world’s largest stone Sundial. All these
instruments are man-made. The observatory consists of instruments which
were used to calculate celestial coordinate systems, the horizon-zenith local
system, the equatorial system and the ecliptic system. One of India’s best
preserved observatories, this monument is a great example of the scientific
as well as the cultural heritage of India. It’s famous for Architectural
Astronomical Instruments and is largest of its kind Observatory.
of India’s best preserved observatories, this monument is a great example of
the scientific as well as the cultural heritage of India. It’s famous for
Architectural Astronomical Instruments and is largest of its kind
Observatory.
JANTAR MANTAR
JAIPUR, RAJASTHAN

HILL FORTS OF RAJASTHAN
Ø The list of the six Hill Forts ofRajasthan includes six majestic forts in Chittorgarh,
Kumbhalgarh, Ramthambore fort, Gagron Fort, Amber Fort and Jaisalmer Fort.
Ø They have been constructed by different Rajput rulers and chieftains during their
respective rule.
Ø They’re located on the rocky Aravalli Mountain Range in Rajasthan.
Ø Standing high with unique royal architectural style, these forts had unique water
storage and harvesting structures, which are actually being used even today.
Ø These six Forts are the recent additions to the list of World Heritage Sites in
India (2013).

Stills from the Hollywood movie BATMAN

CHAMPANER-
PAVAGADH
ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK

CHAMPANER- PAVAGADH
ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK
Ø Centered on the historical city of Champaner or
Muhammadabad built by Sultan Mahmud Begada of
Gujarat.
Ø Also known as Shaharki Masjid, the Champaner-
Pavagadh Archaeological Park is located in the
Panchmahal district of the Indian state of Gujarat.
Ø This place is the only complete unchanged Islamic pre-
Mughal city.

Also known as Shahar ki Masjid, the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the Panchmahal district of the
Indian state of Gujarat. Centered on the historical city of Champaner or
Muhammadabad built by Sultan Mahmud Begada of Gujarat, it’s a very
significant place historically and culturally. This place is the only complete
unchanged Islamic pre-Mughal city. Also deemed to be of mythological
significance, a larger part of CHAMPANER PAVAGARH is still unexcavated. It
includes 11 different types of heritage monuments that are- Mosques, Temples,
Tombs, Gateways, Fortresses and walls, Palaces and Pavilion, Helical Wells,
Custom house and Greeneries all belonging to 16th century. One can observe a
transition from the previous Hindu forms of architecture to the Muslim culture
and forms of architecture. The park also houses some of the ancient Chalcolithic
Indian Sites, from the Stone Age era.
CHAMPANER-
PAVAGADH
ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK

RANI KI VAV, PATAN, GUJARAT.
Ø The Rani ki Vav was built by Rani Udayamati, who was the queen of
Patan. She got it constructed in the memory of her beloved husband,
king Bhimdev I, who was the son of the founder of the Solanki dynasty
of Anahilwada Pattan.
Ø Built in the 3rd millennium BC in, 1603, it is an explicit example of fine
Ancient Indian architecture.
Ø It is the carved and amazing step well, which is located in the Patan is a
small town of Gujrata in India.
Ø Rani-ki-vav is a highly decorated monument with carved panels of
sculptures and reliefs representing the height of Maru-Gurjara style of
architecture. Most of the sculptures are based on the Dashavatar,which
are the incarnations of Lord Vishnu with heart snatching sculpture of
Narasimha,Varaha, Rama and Kalki.
Ø It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

THE RANI KI VAV
It is spread in a large area. The length of Rani ki Vav is 64 meter, width is
20 meters and 27 meters deep. Step wells are a different form of
underground water storage and resource systems on the Indian
subcontinent, and have been framed since the 3rd millennium BC. It is
designed as a reversed temple mainly concerned about the sanctity of
water, it is split into seven levels of stairs with carved panels of high
artistic quality; more than 500 main sculptures and over a thousand minor
ones combine religious, secular imagery and mythological, often
referencing religious literary works. The major highlight is the
scrumptious statue of Mahishasur-Mardini . Apsaras – the angelic
beauties showcasing Solah Singar,which are the16 unique styles of makeup
is another highlight. Near the water level, you come to a beautiful carving
of Sheshashayi Vishnu, in which the lord Vishnu leaned on the thousand-
hooded serpent Shesha. It is also famous for wonderful archaeological
park and Rani Ki Vav. It is one of the best archaeological jewel of India
and it is the pride of Gujarat.

CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI TERMINUS
(FORMERLY VICTORIA TERMINUS)

CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI TERMINUS (FORMERLY VICTORIA
TERMINUS)
Ø It was built by Frederick William Stevens with the inspiration from
Victorian Italianate Gothic Revival architecture and traditional Mughal
buildings.
Ø It was built between the years 1878-1888.
Ø It has Italian and Victorian era elementsthat reminds us of the Indian palace
architecture, and is a good example of the blending of an indigenous and
western style of art. It is known for its Gothic Style Architecture.
Ø It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.(2014)

GATEWAY OF INDIA
MUMBAI
Ø The structure was erected to commemorate the landing of King George
V AND Queen Mary at Apollo Bunder, when they visited India in 1911.
Ø It was designed by the Scottish architect, George Wittet and it got
completed in the year 1924.
Ø It combines the Roman Hindu and Muslim architectural styles.
Ø It was the place where the Viceroys and Governors used to land upon
their arrival in India, so the last troops to leave India following
country’s independence, passed through the Gateway on their way out,
in a ceremony, on Feb 28th, 1948, signaling the end of British Rule.

ELLORA CAVES
Ø The Ellora Caves were built under the patronage of the Chalukya and
Rashtrakuta kings.
Ø The caves at Ellora were carved out of the vertical face of the
Charanandri hills between the 6th and 10th centuries.
Ø The Ellora caves, locally known as ‘Verul Leni’ are located on the
Aurangabad-Chalisgaon road at a distance of 30 km north-northwest of
Aurangabad, the district headquarters.
Ø The Ellora Caves are excavated out of hills and are well known for their
Indian-rock cut architecture.
Ø The Ellora Caves were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in
1983.

The Ellora Caves are an important UNESCO World Heritage site and an
archaeological site, ranging 29 kilometers North West of the city of
Aurangabad. The ELLORA CAVES are excavated out of hills and are well
known for their Indian-rock cut architecture. There are about 34 rock cut
temples and caves which can be dated to about 600 to 1000 AD, are
important in terms of understanding the lives of the people living in these
times. The presence of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples, monasteries and
sculptures portray the tolerance which was extended towards different faiths
and beliefs in Ancient Indian History. Excavated site consists of Charanandri
Hills, Buddhist Hindu and Jain rock-cut temples, Viharas and Maths of 5th
and 10th century.
ELLORA CAVES
MAHARASHTRA

AJANTA CAVES
Ø The caves very built in two different phases. First, of Satavahana Period under the
patronage of Satvahana Dynasty (230BCE-220CE). Second, the caves of Vakataka
Period under the reign of Emperor Harishena of Vakataka Dynasty.
Ø Ajanta caves date back to around 2nd century BCE to 650 CE and consist of the
finest
Ø masterpieces of 31 rock cut Buddhist cave monuments, paintings and sculpture.
Ø The Ajanta Caves (75°40’ N; 20°30’ E) are situated at a distance of 107 km north of
Aurangabad, the district headquarters.
Ø Having mainly carvings and sculptures related to the life of Buddha, theymarks the
beginning of Indian Classical Art.
Ø They are one of the first World Heritage sites in India. (1983)

One of the first World Heritage sites in India, the Ajanta caves date back to
around 2nd century BCE to 650 CE and consist of the finest masterpieces of
31 rock cut Buddhist cave monuments, paintings and sculpture. The caves very
built in two different phases. First, of Satavahana Period under the patronage of
Satvahana Dynasty (230BCE-220CE). Second, the caves of Vakataka Period
under the reign of Emperor Harishena of Vakataka Dynasty. The style of Ajanta
art and architecture has had a revolutionary impact on the way in Indian art
and architecture has progressed all throughout history. Having mainly carvings
and sculptures related to the life of Buddha, one can say that this marks the
beginning of Indian Classical Art.
AJANTA CAVES, MAHARASHTRA

ELEPHANTA CAVES
Ø The rock-cut Elephanta Caves were constructed about the mid-5th to
6th centuries AD.
Ø The caves are carved in solid basalt rock and lie 10 kilometers east to
the city of Mumbai.
Ø The most important of all the caves here is Cave 1with the idol of
LordSadashiva at the entrance of the cave, which depicts 3 sides of
Shiva: as the Creator, Preserves and Destroyer.

ELEPHANTACAVES
MAHARASHTRA
The Elephanta caves are located on an island in the Arabian City, not very
far from the city of Mumbai. The chain of sculpted caves located on
Elephanta Island is also known as Gharapuri. There are numerous
archaeological remains which offer us a glimpse into the rich. cultural past
of Indian civilization. These caves are famous for their rock-cut sculptures
and carvings depicting Shiva as the Creator and the Destroyer of the
Universe. The most important of all the caves here is Cave 1, where one can
see the Sadashiva at the entrance of the cave, which depicts 3 sides of Shiva:
as the Creator, Preserves and Destroyer. The caves are carved in solid basalt
rock and lie 10 kilometers east to the city of Mumbai.

CHURCHES AND CONVENTS OF GOA
Ø They were built by Portuguese colonial rulers in the region now
known as Old Goa.
Ø The 15th and 16th centuries mark the coming of the Portugese to
India and they established themselves at Goa, along the Konkan
coast in the South-western part of India. And the advent of the
Portugese marks the introduction of Christianity in the Indian
subcontinent.
Ø Hence, several churches and convents were built in Goa, as a way
of evangelization.
Ø Churches in Goa are examples of development of architecture,
sculpture and paintings by spreading forms of Manueline,
Mannerist and Baroque art throughout the countries of Asia where
Catholic Missions were established.
Ø Due to their different, yet beautiful architectural forms, these
churches have been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage
Sites in India. (1986)

CHURCHES AND CONVENTS OF GOA
This place serves as an example of the diverse religious and cultural heritage of
India.The Churches and Convents at Velha (Old) Goa owe their existence to
the Portuguese rule in this part of the western coast of India. The most
comprehensive group of churches and cathedrals built during 16th to 17th
century AD at Old Goa comprise of the following: Se' Cathedral, Church and
Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, Chapel of St. Catherine, Basilica of Bom
Jesus; Church of Lady of Rosary; Church of St. Augustine.
The most famous among these monuments is the Basilica do Bom Jesus
which contains the relics of St. Francis Xavier.

KHAJURAHO
Ø Khajuraho is unique heritage site which is famous for
a group of Hindu and Jain Temples built during the
reign of the Chandella dynasty.
Ø Most of these monuments were built between 950 to 1050
CE.
Ø This group of Hindu and Jain Temples situated 175 km
south east of Jhansi consists of total 85 Temples spread
across an area of 20 square kilometers.
Ø They are well known for their Nagara style symbolism
and erotic figures and sculptures.
Ø They are listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
(1986)

Located in Madhya Pradesh, Khajurao is an important UNESCO World
Heritage site in India. Khajuraho is unique heritage site which is famous for
a group of Hindu and Jain Temples situated 175 km south east of Jhansi.
They are well known for their Nagara style symbolism and erotic figures
and sculptures. These sensuous stone carvings of human and animal form in
erotic poses are very aesthetically portrayed and stand testimony to the rich
cultural heritage of India. Most of these monuments were built between 950
to 1050 CE under the reign of the Chandella dynasty. It consists of total 85
Temples spread across an area of 20 square kilometers. The Kandariya
temple is the most prominent of all of these temples in the Khajurao
complex.
Khajuraho
Madhya Pradesh

SANCHI STUPA
Ø It was Emperor Asoka who laid the foundations of a religious
centre at Sanchiand commissioned , fascinated probably by the
location of the hill or because of his Queen Devi, who was the
daughter of a merchant of Vidisha.
Ø the Sanchi Stupa is located 46 kilometer north-east of Bhopal.
Ø Sanchi, has a distinction of having remarkable specimen of
Buddhist art and architecture right from the early Mauryan
period.
Ø So, The Buddhist Monuments located at Sanchi in Madhya
Pradesh are a World Heritage Site in India and they are the oldest
stone structures in India.

The Buddhist Monuments located at Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh are
a World Heritage Site in India and they are the oldest stone structures in
India. Originally commissioned by emperor Ashoka in 3rd century BCE,
the Sanchi Stupa is located 46 kilometer north-east of Bhopal. Its core
was a hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of Buddha and
was crowned by the Chatra which symbolizes rank. The stupa was
vandalized during 2nd century BCE and renovated during the Satavahana
Period when the gateways and the balustrade were built and colored.
Apart from the Sanchi stupa, several other structures exist here, such as
monolithic pillars, temples, palaces and monasteries. It remained a major
pilgrimage site for the Buddhists till about 12th century AD, after which
the religion declined in popularity.
SANCHI STUPA
MADHYA PRADESH

ROCK SHELTERS OF BHIMBETKA,
MADHYA PRADESH

ROCK SHELTERS OF BHIMBETKA, MADHYA PRADESH
Ø The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka is the place where the earliest traces of
human life on Indian subcontinent was discovered. The rock shelters
comprise a group of 5 rocks which were discovered only in 1957, and are
renowned for the Mesolithic era carvings and paintings.
Ø They’re located at the foothills of the Vindhaya Mountains in the Deccan
Plateau about 45 km south east of Bhopal on the road to Hoshangabad.
Ø They are an archaeological site for the Mesolithic period (more than
100,000 years ago) and thus indicates the beginning of the South Asian
Stone Age.
Ø It is the rock paintings of Bhimbetka that steals the limelight. Other
significant sites are the Auditorium Rock Shelter, Zoo Rock and Boar
Rock in Bhimbetka Cluster.
Ø Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.

The rock shelters comprise a group of 5 rocks which were discovered only in 1957,
and are renowned for the Mesolithic era carvings and paintings. These paintings are
instrumental in telling us about the life and activities of the hunter gatherers who
preceded us, and shows the coming together of art form and landscape, during that
age. The site spread over 10 km in length and about 3 km in width has more than
700 rock shelters, of which over 400 have paintings. The earliest human activities are
known from the numerous stone tools including hand axes, cleavers and also the
pebble tools. However it is the rock paintings of Bhimbetka that steals the limelight.
Of particular interest to the tourist are the Auditorium Rock Shelter, Zoo Rock and
Boar Rock in Bhimbetka Cluster. The earliest endeavour here is the engravings of
small cup like depressions at the end of the Auditorium Rock Shelter, which is dated
to nearly 100000 years. Near the end of this tunnel there is a cluster of painting
depicting a hunter, deer, tiger cattle and stylised peacock. Further ahead on the same
path one comes across the Zoo Rock Shelter, which qualifies as the most densely
painted rock shelter, paintings spanning from the Mesolithic to the Mediaeval. The
paintings here include those of A Mesolithic boar painted in dark red, animals like:
elephant, rhinoceros, boar, barasingha, spotted deer and cattle and snake, etc.

MOUNTAIN RAILWAYS OF INDIA
Ø The mountain railways of India comprise of the Darjeeling Himalayan
Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Kalka-Shimla Railway
Ø Built during the 19th and early 20th century, these engineering marvels
were a bold and ingenuous solution to the problem of connectivity in the
rugged mountains and a gem in the heritage of India.
Ø North Bengal is one of the most beautiful scenic temptations on Earth.
Ø Comprising of Fun Toy Train, beautiful Tea Plantations and long tunnels
or the Tiger Hills, besides they pass thru the most beautiful terrain.
Ø are a part of the World Heritage Sites in India. (1999)

MONUMENTS AT HAMPI
Ø Hampi lies within the ruins of the ancient, prosperous kingdom
of Vijayanagar.
Ø It is located in the Northern part of Karnataka.
Ø There are several other monuments which are a part of this
heritage site, Together, they’re collectively known as the ‘Group of
Monuments at Hampi’.
Ø The most important heritage monument in this site is the
Virupaksha Temple.
Ø Some of the other known ones include various temple complex,
several bazaars surrounding the temple complex, and also living
quarters and residential areas.
Ø The ruins at Hampi are a collection of heritage sites depicting
the fine Dravidian style of art and Architecture
Ø Again it’s a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site. (1986)

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Northern part of
Karnataka. It lies within the ruins of the ancient, prosperous kingdom
of Vijayanagar. The ruins at Hampi are a collection of heritage sites depicting
the fine Dravidian style of art and Architecture. The most important heritage
monument in this site is the Virupaksha Temple, which continues to be a very
important religious centre for the Hindus. There are several other
monuments which are a part of this heritage site, Together, they’re
collectively known as the ‘Group of Monuments at Hampi’. Some of the other
known ones include the the Krishna temple complex, Narasimha, Ganesa,
Hemakuta group of temples, Achyutaraya temple complex, Vitthala temple
complex, Pattabhirama temple complex, Lotus Mahal complex, several puras
or bazaars surrounding the temple complex, and also living quarters and
residential areas.
MONUMENTS AT HAMPI
KARNATAKA

GROUP OF MONUMENTS AT
PATTADAKAL, KARNATAKA

GROUP OF MONUMENTS AT PATTADAKAL, KARNATAKA
Ø The 'Group of Monuments at Pattadakal', as named by UNESCO,
cover a remarkable series of nine Hindu temples representing an
amalgamation of architectural features of northern and southern
India.
Ø It is an important tourist site located in Karnataka.
Ø Notable for the numerous temples constructed by the Chalukya
rulers, it includes 8 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Jain and
Shaivite sactuaries. The important monuments are- Virupaksha
Temple, Sangameshwara Temple, Chandrashekhara Temple,
MallikarjuTemple, Kashivishwanaath Temple, Galganath Temple,
Jain Temple and many more.
Ø It is at Pattadakal that all the Chalukya kings were coronated and
was the capital of the Chalukyas as well.
Ø It is famous for its Chalukya style of architecture that originated
in Aihole and blended with the Nagara and Dravidian styles of
architecture.
Ø These 8th century monuments at Pattadakal were added to the
UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987

Mahabodhi Temple Complex,
Bodh Gaya, Bihar

BODH GAYA
Ø The famous Mahabodhi Temple was established in the reign of
Ashoka the Great.
Ø This was the place where Mahatma Buddha attained
enlightenment.
Ø The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya lies 115 km
south of the state capital of Bihar, Patna and 16 km from the
district headquarters at Gaya, in Eastern India.
Ø It is one of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick,
still standing in India, from the late Gupta period.
Ø It is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in India. (2002)

Bodh Gaya is located almost 96 kilometer away from Patna, Bihar and is one of
the UNESCO World Heritage sites in India. It’s an important religious centre for
the Buddhists as this was the place where Mahatma Buddha attained
enlightenment. The holy Bodhi Tree is the site where Siddhartha gained
Enlightenment and became Gautam Buddha. The famous Mahabodhi Temple was
established in the reign of Ashoka the Great in about approximately 250 BCE. It’s
one of the earliest Buddhist temples. Currently, the Mahabodhi Temple Complex
at Bodh Gaya comprises the 50 m tall Mahabodhi Temple, the Vajrasana, sacred
Bodhi Tree and other six sacred sites of Buddha’s enlightenment, surrounded by
numerous ancient Votive stupas. Owing to all these factors, Bodh Gaya is
considered to be the most holy pilgrimage spot for the Buddhists.
Mahabodhi Temple Complex,
Bodh Gaya, Bihar

NALANDA MAHAVIHARA
(NALANDA UNIVERSITY)

NALANDA MAHAVIHARA (NALANDA UNIVERSITY)
Ø The Ancient university of Nalanda is believed to be founded
by the Gupta Dynasty around the kingdom of ChandraGupta
one or SamudraGupta.
Ø It is situated in Bihar.
Ø It isfirst residential university of the World.
Ø It was attacked by a muslin ruler names Bakhtiyar Khilji in
1193 and the whole university was brutally ransacked and
destroyed by the Muslim king.
Ø UNESCO World Heritage sites in India. (2016)

NALANDA MAHAVIHARA
(NALANDA UNIVERSITY) BIHAR
Nalanda Archaeological Site in Bihar was a center of learning and a Buddhist
monastery from 3rd century BCE to the 13th century CE. You can witness the
remains of stupas, shrines, and viharas if you stroll around in the campus
which is a manifestation of a glorious epoch. Nalanda vouched for evolution of
Buddhism as a religion and remained an abode of knowledge for 800 years.
Known for its formalized Vedic learning, scholars from as far as Tibet, China,
Korea, and Central Asia once attended this first residential university of the
World. This is the second world heritage site recognized by UNESCO in Bihar
itself, making it even more prominent on Indian Tourism Map.

SUN TEMPLE, KONARK
ODISHA
Ø It was built by king Narasimhadeva I of the
Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
Ø It’s a 13th century temple.
Ø Not very far from the popular beach town of Puri,
the Sun Temple at Konark is a temple situated in
Konark, Odissha.
Ø It is considered to be one of the largest brahmin
sanctuaries in India.
Ø It reflects the grandeur of the traditional style of
Kalinga Architecture which was prevalent then.
Ø This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India.
(1984)

SUN TEMPLE, KONARK
ODISHA
Not very far from the popular beach town of Puri, the Sun Temple at Konark
is a 13th century temple situated in Konark, Odissha. It was built by king
Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty in around AD 1250. The
Sun temple is in the shape of a gigantic chariot with carved stone wheel, pillars
and walls and is led by 6 enormously carved horses. It’s also considered to be
one of the largest brahmin sanctuaries in India. The temple is originally said to
be built at the mouth of river Chandrabhaga but the waterline receded since
then. This World Heritage Site in India reflects the grandeur of the traditional
style of Kalinga Architecture which was prevalent then.

GROUP OF MONUMENTS
AT MAHABALIPURAM, TAMIL NADU

GROUP OF MONUMENTS AT
MAHABALIPURAM
TAMIL NADU
Ø These temples were built under the reign of the
Pallava rulers.
Ø The group of monument includes 40 sanctuaries.
Ø They constitute the art of Pallava Period and the
Cave temples of Mahabalipuram which constitutes
more than half a dozen caves.
Ø The striking feature of these temples is the fact that
they are all carved out of rock and an important in
terms of ratha architecture in India.
Ø UNESCO World Heritage Site in India. (1984)

GROUP OF MONUMENTS
AT MAHABALIPURAM, TAMIL NADU
The Temples are situated in the town of Mahabalipuram which is approximately
58 kilometers from Chennai in the Coromandal Coast of Bay of Bengal. These
temples were built under the reign of the Pallava rulers and the striking feature
of these temples is the fact that they are all carved out of rock and an important
in terms of ratha architecture in India. The group of monument includes 40
sanctuaries including largest open-air-bas-relief, eg, Ganga’s Descent.
These World Heritage Sites in India, constitutes the art of Pallava Period with
sites likes Pancha Rathas, Dharamaraja Ratha, Arjuna Ratha, Draupadi Ratha,
etc. Also the Cave temples of Mahabalipuram which constitutes more than half a
dozen caves.

GREAT LIVING CHOLA
TEMPLES
TAMIL NADU

GREAT LIVING CHOLA TEMPLES
TAMIL
NADU
Ø These temples were built in Southern Part of
India during the rule of Chola Empire.
Ø These temples stand testimony to the
architectural splendor and beauty of Chola
art, architecture and sculpture.
Ø These temples are living temples and the
rituals and festivities which were observed
by people thousands of years ago, are still
held.
Ø A UNESCO World Heritage Site. (1987)

These temples were built in Southern Part of India during the rule of Chola
empire. The Brihadisvara Temple, the Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and
the Airavatesvara Temple are the most important of all of these temples. The
Brihadisvara temple was built under the reign of Rajaraja 1, and is a milestone
when it comes to Chola architecture. The temple at Gangaikondacholapuram was
patronized by Rajendera 1 and was dedicated to Lord Shiva. And the the
Airavatesvara temple was built during the time of Rajaraja II, and is
aesthetically different from the other two. These temples stand testimony to the
architectural splendour and beauty of Chola art, architecture and sculpture.
These temples are living temples and the rituals and festivities which were
observed by people thousands of years ago, are still held. Hence, these 3 temples
reflect the ancient culture and heritage of the Tamilians and form an inseparable
part of their ancient history.
GREAT LIVING CHOLA
TEMPLES
TAMIL NADU

CHAR MINAR
HYDERABAD
Ø It was built by fifth ruler of the Qutub Shahi dynasty, Sultan
Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah (who founded the city of Hyderabad
in 1591) to commemorate the beginning of the second Islamic
Millennium year.
Ø The construction of Char Minar was completed in 1592.
Ø It has Indo-Islamic architectural style, incorporating Persian
architectural styles.
Ø It is made of granite, limestone mortar and pulverized marble.
Ø UNESCO World Heritage Site.

CAPITOL COMPLEX, CHANDIGARH. PUNJAB

CAPITOL COMPLEX, CHANDIGARH, PUNJAB.
Ø The Capitol Complex in Chandigarh also hosts the legislative
assembly for both the states of Haryana and Punjab, High Court
and the Secretariat.
Ø This was part of Le Corbusier’s work, which he did in 17
countries in the first half of 20th century.
Ø Located in Sector 1, Chandigarh, this capitol complex was built
when Chandigarh was being developed as the capital of Punjab
in 1950 after the partition of India.
Ø The architectural work of Le Corbusier across many countries,
including the Capital Complex of Chandigarh was recognized as
a World Heritage Site as part of outstanding contribution to
Modern Movement. (2016)

Two days after the ruins of Nalanda University in Bihar
made it to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites' list, the elite
body also included two other Indian sites –
Chandigarh’s Capitol Complex and Sikkim’s national park,
home to the world’s third highest peak Mount
Khangchendzonga -- in the list at the 40th session of The
World Heritage Committee meeting in Istanbul.

WESTERN GHATS
Ø The Western Ghats or the Sahyadri mountain ranges lies along the
western coast of Indian Peninsula. The range runs north to south
along the western edge of Deccan Plateau.
Ø It constitutes sever national parks, reserve forests and wildlife
sanctuaries in Kerala , Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.
The hills cover 160000 square kilometer area with a length of 1600
kilometer, width of 100 kilometer and a heights of 1200 meters.
Ø It has an extremely high bio-diversity and ranks among the top 8 in
World’s Biological Hot Spot Locations.
Ø The forests along the Western Ghats are home to about 325 species
of flora and fauna, which included endangered, rare and critically
endangered species of plants and animals.
Ø Listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site .(2012)

Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area

GREAT HIMALAYAN NATIONAL PARK & CONSERVATION
AREA.
Ø This National Park in the western part of the Himalayan
Mountains in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
Ø It is characterized by high alpine peaks, alpine meadows and
riverine forests.
Ø The 90,540 ha property includes the Upper Mountain glacial
and snow melt water sources of several rivers, and the
catchments of water supplies that are vital to millions of
downstream users.
Ø It is part of the Himalaya biodiversity hotspot and includes
twenty-five forest types along with a rich assemblage of fauna
species, several of which are threatened.
Ø Listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site.(2014)

KAZIRANGA NATIONAL
PARK
In the heart of Assam, this
park is one of the last areas in
eastern India undisturbed by a
human presence. It is
inhabited by the world's
largest population of one-
horned rhinoceroses, as well as
many mammals, including
tigers, elephants, panthers and
bears, and thousands of birds.

Manas Wildife Sanctuary is a protected wildlife reserve and one
of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in India. It’s located in the
North Eastern Indian state of Assam. The name originated from
River Manas which is derived from the name of Godess Manasa.
The lush green forested hills and dense vegetation of the
surrounding areas provide a comfortable environment to the
several endangered species of animals who reside here. The Wild
Life sanctuary is a Project Tiger Reserve, Elephant Reserve,
Biosphere Reserve and a home for number of endangered species
like Assam Roofed Turtle, Hispid Hare, Golden Langur and
Pygmy Hog. In fact this park houses most endangered species
than any other in India.

KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK,
BHARATPUR, RAJASTHAN.

Also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keladeo National
Park is located in the Indian state of Rajasthan. A home to
about 366 different species of birds, it’s also known for being
the wintering and nesting ground for several non-indigenous,
migratory birds. Initially a duck shooting ground, it was later
on developed as a completely man-made and man-managed
wetland/place, and is spread over 29 square kilometers.
Hunting is now banned in this area and is a punishable offence.
Besides birds, there are 379 floral species, 50 species of fish, 13
species of snake, 7 species of lizard, 7 species of amphibians, 7
turtle species and variety of other invertebrates. This place is a
reminder of the rich biological heritage of India.

NANDA DEVI VALLEY OF FLOWERS & NATIONAL PARKS

The Nanda Devi is the highest mountain peak of Uttarakhand and
the highest mountain peak of India also because the Kanchenjunga
is known to share its border with Nepal. There are two peaks of the
mountain, the eastern peak named the Sunanda Devi. It has its
importance back from the era of Puranas and Upanishads,
remarked several times in the mythological works of the Hindus. It
ranges up to a height of 6400 meters above the sea level.
The Valley of Flowers is a National Park near Nanda Devi peak
which stretches up to 8 kilo meters in length and 2 kilo meters in
width. It is famous for the astonishing variety of flowers which
covers the entire valley like a bed sheet. This World Heritage Sites
in India is home to more than 600 species of Flora and over 520
species of fauna.

SUNDERBANS NATIONAL PARK,
WEST BENGAL

Famous for the Royal Bengal Tigers, the Sunderban National Park is a
known Tiger reserve and a Biosphere reserve located in the Indian State
of West Bengal. It is situated on the Sunderban Deltas formed by the
river Ganges in Bay of Bengal. It is one of the largest reserves in India
covered mostly by dense Mangrove forests. It’s the world’s largest
mangrove forest reserve. Home to the critically endangered Royal
Bengal Tiger, there are also other animal species such as the gangetic
dolphin, spotted dear, wild boar and other mammal and amphibian
species. The rare salt water crocodile is another attraction of this
reserve. The tiger population of India is the maximum in this location.
Because of frequent contacts with local inhabitants, several tigers have
been labelled as ‘man-eaters’. Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site
in1987.

KHANGCHENDZONGA
NATIONAL PARK,
SIKKIM

The park exhibits one of the widest altitudinal ranges of any protected
area worldwide. It boasts of a unique diversity of lowlands, steep
valleys and snow-clad mountains, including the world’s third highest
peak, Mt. Khangchendzonga, besides numerous lakes and glaciers, the
communication said.
The park combines the religious and cultural practices of Buddhism as
well as the ecological significance of the region, and stands out as an
outstanding example of traditional knowledge and environmental
preservation. It is also a unique example of coexistence and exchange
between different religious traditions and people. Khangchendzonga
National Park (KNP) in Sikkim has been named a world heritage site
by the World Heritage Committee (WHC) of UNESCO in 2016.

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