10 Famous Historical Monuments of Medieval India | Feature Articles | Solitary Traveller

Do you sometimes wish that you could time travel? Well, peeping into the future may still be a distant possibility. But with a bit of imagination, you can easily recreate the grand history of our past. And which is that vehicle that can transport you to the past? It is none other than many medieval monuments that are spread across the country.

Medieval monuments have not just stood the test of time; they still fascinate us with their intricate architecture and rich designs. The stories that you may have read in your history books come alive as you explore these monuments that speak a more eloquent language than any tale heard or read. So join us as we explore the top 10 historical monuments that are worth a visit?

Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

Humayuns Tomb Delhi

Built in the year 1569, Humayun’s Tomb has of particular cultural significance since it is one the earliest examples of the dynastic mausoleum built by the Mughals on the Indian subcontinent. Reversing the story of the Taj Mahal, this 25-acre architecture resulted from a wife’s love for her late beloved husband. Its unique beauty and handsomeness can be credited to the Indian and Persian influences which were fused in its architecture. The red-sandstone sculpted Islamic architectural walls, decorated balconies, and an immense courtyard are some of the attractions this place has to offer.

Fun facts: Within the entire complex, there are more than 100 graves.
Location: Mathura Road Opposite, HazratNizamuddinAuliaDargah, New Delhi-110013
Time: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m

Golgumbaz, Karnataka

Golgumbaz Karnataka
Picture Courtesy: Google

The final resting place of the ruler of Bijapur, Mohammed Adil Shah, this colossal structure is the second largest tomb next to the famous St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Built during the 16th century, this cubical structure is one of the finest examples of the Indo-Islamic architectural approach in Southern India. One of the famous attractions of this place is the Whispering Gallery running within the inner parts of the dome. It is said that the softest of sounds can be heard through the other side of the mausoleum due to the acoustic nature of the gallery. 

Fun Facts: The tomb is believed to be the largest in India and the second largest dome structure in the world.
Location:JadarGalli, Vijayapura, Karnataka 586104
Time: 10.00AM to 5.00PM

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Sanchi Buddhist Monuments, Madhya Pradesh

Sanchi Buddhist Monuments Madhya Pradesh
Picture Courtesy: Google

Situated in a small hilltop of Bhopal, Sanchi is one of the oldest preserved historical monuments of India. Built in the 3rd century by Mauryan emperor Ashoka, this monolithic simple dome-like brick structure safeguards the ancient history and relics of the Mauryan period. It portrays the life and journey of Lord Buddha. The Mauryan artefact, the sacred shrines and monasteries, and the wonderfully engraved teachings of Lord Buddha attract historians and tourists from all around the world.

Fun Facts: The Archaeological Survey of India houses the Ashoka pillar similar to the famous Sarnath, which is found in Sanchi. Other than this, utensils and other items used by the monks at Sanchi are also showcased.
Location: Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh 464661
Time:8am to 7 pm

Gangikonda Cholapuram, Tamil Nadu

Gangikonda Cholapuram Tamil Nadu
Picture Courtesy: Google

Erected as the metropolis of the Cholas by the mighty king of the Chola Dynasty, Rajendra Chola I, Gangikonda Cholapuram is a home of a beautifully structured Shiva temple which is one the biggest temples built in his reign. This heritage site is quite similar to the Brihadisvaratemple. Rajendra Chola I emulated the features and looks from the temple built by his father. Whether it is the life-like sculptures of Chandesa Anugrahaand the Nataraja or the beautiful images of Saraswati, Gangikonda Cholapuram is the perfect epitome of the master craftsmanship which was showcased by the artisans of the Chola Dynasty.

Fun Facts: It is said that the shadow of the Kalasa on the tower doesn’t touch the ground.
Location: Jayankondam, Ariyalur district, Tamil Nadu,612901
Time :6:30am to 8:30pm

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Charminar, Hyderabad

Charminar Hyderabad
Picture Courtesy: Google

If you are travelling to Hyderabad, other than feasting on the fragrant Hyderabadi Biryani, the famous Charminar is arguably on every traveller’s bucket list. Built by the Muhammad QutbShah, Charminar is a square-shaped granite and lime mortar structure which widely acclaimed for its Indo Islamic influenced architecture. Another attraction of this place is that on the top floor of the structure, there is a mosque that has a breathtaking view and is considered to be the oldest mosque in the city. This mesmerizing and camera-ready tourist spot is, without a doubt, makes it in every “top 10 monuments of India” checklist.

Fun facts: Charminar is considered the first structure that had more than one floor in Hyderabad. 
Location: Pathergatti Rd, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500002
Time:9:30 am – 5:30 pm

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Victoria Memorial Kolkata
Picture Courtesy: Google

Victoria memorial is probably one of the most iconic spots in Eastern India. This huge marble-based architecture was built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s 25-year reign in India. Made of white Markana brought from Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Victoria Memorial features Indo-Saracenic architectural style, which stands out as an excellent architectural gem. This grand architectural brilliance presently houses a museum that consists of a number of famous oil paintings, sculptures, artilleries, and valuable manuscripts of the British era in India.

Fun Facts: Before constructing this memorial, the location housed the Presidency Jail, which was later shifted to Alipore.
Location: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071
Time:10:00 am to 5:00 pm 

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Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa

Basilica of Bom Jesus Goa
Picture Courtesy: Google

Located in Baibguinim, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, in all probability, is one of the most celebrated and cherished spots, which is revered by the Christian community from all around the globe. Constructed in the year 1604, this one-of-a-kind Basilica stands to be an epitome of the Baroque and Portuguese colonial architecture, which is both fascinating and pleasing to the eye.  The body of Saint Francis Xavier is preserved in this church which remains as one main attraction within the fellow tourists who seek his Holy blessings.

Fun Facts: Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the “Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World” and is a UNESCO recognized World Heritage Sites.
Location: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402
Time:09:00 AM – 06:30 PM

Mamleshwar Temple, Kashmir

Mamleshwar Temple Kashmir
Picture Courtesy: Google

Dating back to 400AD, this is one of the oldest and the most significant pilgrimage spots in the Pahalgam region. Situated on the banks of an elegant Lidder river, this impressive stone edifice is dedicated to Lord Shiva. One of the main tourist attractions of the place is the two mouthed Nandi Idol and the Holy ShivaLingam with a pure water spring covered by a basin. Other than its religious significances, Mamleshwar Temple is known for its scenic and picturesque view of the snowcapped mountains around, which not only draws devotees but backpackers from all around the globe.

Fun Facts: It is situated at an elevation of 2,200 meters. The structure is decorated with a golden-kalasa at the top.
Location: Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192126
Time: 06:00 am – 08:00 pm

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