Amazing India–a Unique Getaway Destination
India is a diverse country that is rich in history and folklore. It is a melting pot of various cultures and religions, which have left their mark throughout the country. Numerous attractions in India are listed as World Heritage sites because of their cultural impact. When traveling to India, tourists may wish to consider visiting one or more of the following five attractions:
Ellora and Ajanta Caves
Intricately carved into hillside rocks in the vast Indian wilderness are the Ellora and Ajanta caves. There are over 30 caves at Ellora which date back to the 6th century A.D. and 28 at Ajanta, which date back to the 3rd century B.C. The Ellora caves are famous for their spectacular architecture, while the Ajanta caves are rich in carvings and paintings. The art in all the caves were crafted by hand with only a chisel and hammer.
Fatehpur Sikri
Once the proud capital of the Mughal Empire, the city of Fatehpur Sikri has stood deserted since the beginning of the16th century. A well preserved ghost town, Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned by its residents after a mere 15 years due to inefficient water supplies. The city is full of regal courtyards and palaces and is constructed entirely out of sandstone, giving it a medieval ambiance that one will immediately notice when touring the grounds.
Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal, known worldwide as a monument of love, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Constructed by Shah Jahan, the emperor of Mughal, in memory of his beloved wife, the Taj Mahal is one of India’s finest examples of Indian, Turkish, and Persian architecture. The structure became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Golden Temple of Amritsar
Originally built between a thin forest and small lake in 1574, the site of the Golden Temple of Amritsar is a popular tourist destination for visitors and natives of India alike. Sometimes called “Amrit Sarovar” by local residents, it is the Sikh religion’s holiest shrine, and its temple is still located in a generous pool of water surrounded by a beautiful golden summit.
Mural Sites
The colorful artwork of India’s many mural paintings have long been a top attraction for tourists traveling through the country. Such artwork is present on the walls of palaces, churches and temples, in the cities of Rajasthan and Kerala, the oldest of which were discovered in one of Kerala’s cave temples. The artwork has its roots in ancient Dravidian art, and while the oldest murals are found in Kerala, a higher number of murals can be seen in the city of Rajasthan, making both cities worth visiting.
April is a great month to travel to India too!