Historical monuments are one of the most important things in every country. These monuments were considered architectural wonders based on history and culture. Every country's monuments differ from one another in that India's monuments are rich and varied for their complex superfluities and beautiful architecture. The heritage of the important historical monuments in India includes Ancient Forts, Palaces, Iconic Temples, Churches, and Tombs.

The skill of exceptional craftsmanship and sophistication emphasizes the allure of the ancient era, be it the wonder of white marble, the Taj Mahal, or the grandeur of red stone, the magnificent Red Fort. These monuments stand as testaments to India’s history and as the safeguarding pillars of its cultural heritage. The important historical monuments in India are inspiring future generations.

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) has recognised around 35 heritage sites out of 43 world heritage sites.

This article lists out all the important historical monuments in India with their location, built by, and the years that built, and also lists and explains the Top 10 important historical monuments of India.

List Of Important Historical Monuments Of India

There are around 51 famous historical monuments in India, and there are only the Top 20 important historical monuments in India.

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Top 10 Important Historical Monuments in India

UNESCO has recognized important historical monuments in India in its World Heritage List. This could be good study material for the aspirants who are preparing for the civil services exams. Here is the list and explanation of India's Top 10 Important historical monuments in India.

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Red Fort

Red Fort is a historic fort in old Delhi that was built by the fifth Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century.

• The fort was constructed in the years between 1638 to 1648.

• The fort occupies a total area of about 254.67 acres with a few kilometers of defense walls.

• The name of the fort became the Red Fort because the fort was built with the use of Red Sandstone, which is used for the walls, and it is dotted by turrets and bastions.

•  The fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.

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Taj Mahal

Tajmahal is one of the most famous monuments in India and the world.

• It is considered the masterpiece of the Mughal Empire and holds the record as one of the world's wonders among the 8 world wonders. 

• It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife Mumtaz.

• This historical monument in India was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

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Qutub Minar 

Qutub Minar is one of the historical monuments in India, which was built between 1192 to 1368 and was started by the first sultan Qutb-ud-din Aibak and was completed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq.

• It is one of the most visited places in the world.

• It is a 73-meter-tall victory tower.

• The Qutub Minar is a World Heritage Site.

Ajanta and Ellora

The Ajanta Ellora caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra a distance of  100 kilometers.

• Ajanta caves consist of ancient Buddhist cave temples, sculptures, and paintings that date back to the 2nd century BCE.

• It showcases exceptional rock-cut architecture from the 5th and 10th centuries CE.

• Ajanta caves are around 300-year-old rock-cut caves which are divided into two groups. The first group is from caves 1 to 10. The second group are from caves 11 to 29. Out of all the caves, 16 are most renowned for their architecture and paintings.

Konark Sun Temple 

The Konark Sun Temple is one of the important historical monuments and the builders in India which is called a marvel in architecture from the 13th century, This temple is dedicated to the sun god.

• The Sun Temple is one of the important historical monuments in India on the eastern shores of the Indian subcontinent.

• One of the outstanding examples of temple architecture and art is revealed in its conception.

• It has an impressive chariot-shaped structure with beautifully carved wheels.

• This site is famous for its detailed sculptures on its walls.

Khajuraho Temples

The temples of Khajuraho were built during the Chandella dynasty and reached their apogee between 950 and 1050.

• Only about 20 temples remain; they fall into three distinct groups and belong to two different religions - Hinduism and Jainism. 

• They strike a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture. 

• The temple of Kandariya is decorated with a profusion of sculptures that are among the greatest masterpieces of Indian art.

Hampi

Hampi is the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, is an important monuments in India, which was classified as the last great Hindu kingdom.

• This was classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, as this historic town is also the “World's Largest Open-air Museum”.

• The group of monuments is unique for hosting Dravidian-style temples like Virupaksha temples, Palaces, and fortifications.

• There were opulent palaces, marvelous temples, massive fortifications, baths, markets, aqueducts, pavilions, stables for royal elephants, and elegantly carved pillars.

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is located in the Agra district in the State of Uttar Pradesh in northern India.

• Fatehpur Sikri was built by Emperor Akbar and served as the Mughal Empire's capital for around 15 years.

• Its red sandstone buildings, including the Buland Darwaza and Jama masjid, reflect a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

• This is known as the "City of Victory"; it was made the capital by the Mughal emperor Akbar.

Sanchi Stupa

The Great Stupa at Sanchi is also known as the Sanchi Stupa, which has been the focal point of the Buddhist faith in the region and was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC.

• The great structure still inspires awe today and sits at the top of a hill, surrounded by the remains of smaller stupas, monasteries, and temples that were built as the religious community grew in the centuries after the site was founded.

• The main body of the stupa symbolizes the cosmic mountain.

• It is topped by a 'harmika' to hold the triple umbrella, or 'chhatravelli', which represents the three jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha, the dharma, and the Sangha.

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a town in South India which having Ancient Temples that reflect the glory of the former kingdoms, also the beach is a matchless natural beauty.

• This region is also known for its rich cultural heritage that welcomes you with the warmth of Mahabalipuram in many ways.

• The Mahabalipuram is the place where a group of monuments, which are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is located in Tamil Nadu.

• It is renowned for its rich culture and architectural heritage, showcasing the finest examples of ancient Pallava architecture and sculpture.

According to  Indian archaeology, there are so many big and small historical monuments and places in India, here I explain some important historical monuments in India with the list of all the monuments and also segregate the top 10 among those historical monuments and builders in India.

List Of Historical Monuments In India: FAQ’s

Q. Which organization recognizes the historical monuments and buildings in India?

UNESCO is the organization that recognizes the historical monuments and buildings in India.

 Q. What is the abbreviation of UNESCO?

The abbreviation of UNESCO is United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization.

 Q. How many famous historical monuments are in India?

There are around 51 historical monuments in India, of which only 20 are famous all.

 Q. What is the importance of historical monuments in India?

The importance of the historical monuments in India is to represent India’s tradition and diverse cultural splendor.

 Q. For which Hindu deity the Konark sun temple is dedicated?

The Konark sun temple was dedicated to the Hindu sun god, it was built with the use of stones in the 13th century.

 Q. What is special about jama masjid?

Jama masjid is special because it is one of the largest mosques in India. It is the oldest mosque among all which was built during the 14th AD.

 Q. Why is Ajanta Ellora Caves famous?

Ajanta Ellora caves are famous for Buddhist rock-cut architecture which is one of the greatest achievements.

 Q. Who is the father of monuments in India?

Alexander Cunningham, the first Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India is often called the father of Indian Archaeology.

Q. Which city in India has the most historical monuments?

Delhi is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Humayun's Tomb, along with famous tourist attractions and historical landmarks such as Chandni Chowk, Purana Quila, Parliament House, Connaught Place, James Church, Pitampura TV Tower, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Tallest Indian Flag, etc.

Q. Which is the national palace of India?

Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, was conceptualized in 1911 following the decision to shift the capital of British India from Kolkata to Delhi.