Monuments in India

The cultural heritage of India's five-thousand-year old civilization is reflected by a number of monuments scattered throughout the country. All these forts, palaces, temples, mosques and churches etc. prove that architecture in India had been a form of architectural expression. Architecture in India started evolving with the settlement of the cities of Harappa and Mohenjo Daro. The Great Bath, Assembly Hall and its drainage system are some examples of Harappan civilization. Indian Architecture evolved over a period of time, and incorporated definitive influences from its various rulers, either Hindus, Muslims or British. Hindu architecture has immensely been religious and spiritual in its basic temperament. It only meant the construction of temples. Kailashnath Temple at Ellora, Khajuraho Temples, Jain shrines at Dilwara, Jagannath Temple at Puri and Konark Sun Temple are some of the finest specimens of Hindu Architecture. Muslim invasions brought many changes with the features including arches, tombs, mosques and minarets etc. Qutub Minar, Taj Mahal and Jama Masjid (Delhi) have remained impassable till date.


Forts of India
Colorful past of India is reflected in the myriad citadels studded in Indian landscape. Some of the erstwhile political epicenters are in ruins while others are still stand tall. All this speaks of bygone golden era, of intrigue, valor, glory, deceit, romance and splendor.
¤ Lal Qila or Red Fort : Its impressive palaces and public halls are nothing but the imprints of its aura and the seat of it's power.

¤ Amber Fort : This sprawling Amber Fort-Palace is nothing but an apt example of lives of gallant Rajputs. They were everything - militant, adventurous, temperamental and also self-indulgent at the same time. Amber Fort is rated among the best hilltop forts in India.

¤ Gwalior Fort : The fort is often described as the 'Pearls in the necklace of the castles of Hind'. This sprawling fort is the testimony to glorious battles and the rule of the Maharajas of Gwalior.

¤ Jaisalmer Fort : Perched on the hills, emerging out of the sand, the gold hued walls of this majestic fortress reaches up to the sky with pride.

¤ Agra fort : Built by Emperor Akbar, this crescent-shaped fort is placed on the west bank of the river. The main highlights of this magnificent Fort are Diwan-i-Aam, Jehangir's palace, Anguri Bagh etc.

¤ Fatehpur Sikri : 37 kms from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was built during 1571 and 1585, by the Mughal Emperor, Akbar. Diwan-I-Am, Daulat khana-I-khas etc reflects one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendor.

¤ Jhansi Fort : Built by Raja Vir Singh Judeo in 1613, the Jhansi Fort is an architectural delight to eyes. The fort was a residence of Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi. The main highlights are the Karak Bijli Toup, Rani Jhansi Garden, Shiv temple etc.

¤ Golkonda : Golkonda Fort was established by the Yadava dynasty of Deogiri and Kakatiyas of Warangal and named after the Telugu word "Golla Konda" means "Shephard's Hill".


Palaces of India
The palaces in India are the epitome of sheer opulence and comfort. These were built in some of the most beautiful cities of the country, offering a visual treat to visitors. These mammoth temples showcase a brilliant range of architectural style and artistry, reflecting an elegance of style. This perfection demands a mastery over eons. Some of the palaces have been renovated as luxury hotels offering a whiff of royalty.
¤ Umaid Bhavan Palace : Located in Jodhpur, Umaid Bhavan Palace is rated one of the world's largest residences. This 347 room palace leaves the impression of romance juxtaposed alongside beauty. It leaves a nostalgic feeling for the golden era of Rajputs.

¤ Fort & Palaces of Orchha : The spectacular forts & palaces of Orchha comprise of three splendidly constructed palaces called as Raja Mahal, Jahangir Mahal and Rai Parveen Mahal.

¤ Bir Singh Palace : Bir Singh Palace is regarded as one of the best surviving example of architecture belonging to late 16th and early 17th centuries.

¤ Jai Vilas Palace : Located in Gwalior, Jai Vilas Palace looks like a quaint Mediterranean resort. The palace was built between 1872 and 1874 by Maharaja Jayji Rao to welcome the 'Prince of Wales' during his visit to India.

¤ City Palace / Jaipur : City Palace Jaipur is situated at the heart of the main city. This City Palace covers one-seventh of the town. This palace reflects an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthan and Mughal architecture.

¤ Lake Palace Udaipur : Built by Maharaja Jagat Singh II, Lake Palace of Udaipur is popularly known as Jag Niwas. Situated on Lake Pichola, it gives its admirer a picture perfect floating view.

¤ Lalgarh Palace / Bikaner : Designed by a British designer, this palace is an architectural masterwork in red sandstone. This palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji in the memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh Ji in 1902.