13 Iconic Monuments in India You Should Visit

The construction of this stunning 240ft-tall brick minaret was started by Qutab-ud-din Aibak in 1192, His heir, Iltutmish, added three more storeys, while the fifth and final level was built by Razia Sultana, the first and only female Sultan to rule over Delhi. The Qutub Minar is culturally significant as one of the first Indo-Islamic monuments to be built in the capital city of India.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most eminent Roman Catholic churches in India. Its construction was started in 1594 and completed in 1605. The mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, who played an influential part in the establishment of Christianity in India, is preserved inside a silver casket in the Basilica. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has long been admired for its Baroque architecture.

In its glory days during the early 16th century, Hampi was the wealthiest kingdom in all of India. The stories of its prosperity reached far and wide, and travellers from all over the world flocked to the city. The monuments of Hampi were later demolished by the medieval Sultans of Delhi, but even when in ruins, they are still breathtaking.

Named after the Rajput king Rawal Jaisal who built the fortified city in 1156, Jaisalmer Fort is a spectacular structure. The Fort is said to have provided shelter to travellers along the Silk Route and today, is home to about 3,000 people who continue to live within the walls. To watch the colour of the Jaisalmer Fort alter with the movements of the sun is absolutely magnificent.