10 Must-Visit Archeological Sites In India For History Buffs

OT Staff

Hampi, Karnataka

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. The ruins of temples, palaces, and monuments, including the iconic Virupaksha Temple and Stone Chariot, make it a must-visit for history lovers.

Hampi | Shutterstock

Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Khajuraho temples are famous for their intricate and erotic sculptures. Built between 950 and 1050 AD, they showcase the architectural prowess and cultural richness of the Chandela dynasty.

Khajuraho | Shutterstock

Bodh Gaya, Bihar

Bodh Gaya is home to the Mahabodhi Temple, which marks the spot where Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple and its surroundings are well-maintained and provide a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.

Bodh Gaya | Shutterstock

Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

These ancient rock-cut caves, some of which date back to the 2nd century BCE, feature elaborate Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples, monasteries, and paintings. Ajanta is renowned for its beautiful murals, while Ellora contains the impressive Kailasa Temple, carved from a single rock.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves | Shutterstock

Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh

This ancient Buddhist complex, including the Great Stupa, is one of the oldest stone structures in India, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Sanchi Stupa | Shutterstock

Rani Ki Vav, Patan, Gujarat

A stepwell built during the Solanki dynasty in the 11th century, Rani Ki Vav is known for its intricate carvings and architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage site is a marvel of engineering and design.

Rani Ki Vav | Shutterstock

Rock Cut Temples of Badami, Karnataka

The rock-cut temples of Badami date back to the 6th century and are a fine example of Indian rock-cut architecture. These temples, carved into sandstone cliffs, blend Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist elements and offer a glimpse into ancient Indian religious practices.

Rock Cut Temples of Badami | Shutterstock

Lothal, Gujarat

Take a glimpse at the ancient Harappan civilisation at Lothal. The site, discovered in 1954, has been excavated to reveal a well-planned city. Visitors can learn about the Indus Valley civilisation and the lives of people who lived there at the well-preserved site.

Lothal | Shutterstock

Dholavira, Kachchh district, Gujarat

Discovered in 1967, Dholavira was a city of the Indus Valley civilisation with a sophisticated drainage system and a large reservoir that stores rainwater during dry seasons. Evidence of artefacts from Mesopotamia and Egypt revealed its impressive trade network.

Dholavira | Shutterstock

Nalanda University, Nalanda

Nalanda University is a site that dates back to the 5th century CE. Once a thriving hub of Buddhist learning, it is now a ruin of temples, libraries and monasteries. Only some parts of the site have been reconstructed, but most of them are ruins.

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Nalanda University | Shutterstock
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