Archaeological Wonders of India

India has more than 1000 archaeological sites , many of which are accessible to travelers and tourists. Since ancient times these regions has seen several cultures flourish due to the endless conquest of the region between various empires and kingdoms. The different cultures have all brought different technological and architectural advances to the region.

Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan

Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the largest hilltop forts in the World, and one of spectacular Hill Forts of Rajasthan included in UNESCO list of World Heritage sites. The region of Kumbhalgarh was ruled by a Rajput King called the Sisodia Rajputs. King Rana Kumbha, after whom the fort is named, laid the foundation in the 15th century AD then it became the capital of the Kingdom of Mewar. Kumbhalgarh was home to the Rajputs until the capital moved to Udaipur.

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan

The Jaisalmer fort was built in 12th century AD by a Bhati Rajput ruler Jaisal, who named the fort after himself. Jaisalmer was ruled by Rajputs until it was captured in the 13th century for 9 years. In the 16th century the fort was again captured but this time by the Mughal emperor Humayun. This fort is situated on Trikuta Hill. This striking appearance is further enhanced by yellow sandstone used for its construction. The fort spectacularly reflects the sun rays against the backdrop of the deserts and appears as if it is made of gold , thats why it is also called Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort.

Meenakshi Temple, Tamil Nadu

This temple is one of the landmark of the city of Madurai. Madurai has been inhabited for over 2000 years, and is not only one of the oldest cities of India, it is one of the oldest inhabited cities of India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Parvati. The temple complex is well known for its beautiful gopurams, there are 14 of them in all. It is a multi-storeyed gayeway towers that are covered with many thousand of carvings of animals, gods, goddesses and demons all painted in different bright colors.

Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh

The various temples were built around 10th and 11th centuries by the Chandela Rajput dynasty. Most of the temples in India are dedicated to Hindu gods or the Jain sect. There were once around 85 temples spread throughout the area of about 20 kilometres. But now only 20 of them have survived and are protected under Archaeological Survey of India as well as being listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. These temples are located near the Vindhya Mountain range and built amongst a number of natural lakes.

Konark Sun Temple, Odisha

The Konark Sun Temple, also known as the Black Pagoda in the state of Odisha. The temple was built by the Ganga Dynasty during the 13th century. The temple is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is one of the seven Wonders of India. As the name suggests it is dedicated to Sun and is built in the shape of chariot with wheels carved besides the temple. The temple was originally built on the banks of the river Chandrabhaga.