Top 10 architectural masterpieces of India

Jun 10, 2024

By: Ayush Mehrotra

Taj Mahal

Perhaps India's most iconic monument, this white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It's renowned for its intricate craftsmanship and symmetrical design.

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Qutub Minar

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Built-in the 12th century by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, it's an exemplary masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture.

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Hawa Mahal

Translating to "Palace of Winds," this stunning five-story palace is adorned with intricate latticework and 953 small windows (jharokhas) designed to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life and festivals in the street below without being seen.

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Ajanta and Ellora Caves

These UNESCO World Heritage Sites consist of rock-cut cave complexes featuring exquisite sculptures, paintings, and monolithic temples dating back to ancient India, showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain influences.

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Khajuraho Temples

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These temples, built between 950 and 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty, represent one of the finest examples of temple architecture in India.

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Meenakshi Amman Temple

Dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi, this temple complex is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Its towering gopurams (gateway towers), intricately carved pillars, and vibrant sculptures attract millions of visitors annually.

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Mysore Palace

Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, this magnificent structure is the official residence of the Wadiyar dynasty, the erstwhile ruler of Mysore. With its Indo-Saracenic architectural style, it's one of the most visited attractions in India.

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Golden Temple

Known as Harmandir Sahib, this spiritual and cultural centre for the Sikh religion is revered for its stunning golden facade, serene sarovar (pool), and the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.

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Sanchi Stupa

Dating back to the 3rd century BCE, the Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India. It is a significant Buddhist monument, featuring intricately carved gateways (toranas) depicting the life of Buddha.

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Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

Formerly known as Victoria Terminus, this historic railway station is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an outstanding example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in India, blending Indian architectural traditions with Victorian influences.

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