Indian Architecture is diverse, vast, ancient and mesmerizing like the country itself. Architecture tours in India offer the best opportunity to explore the treasure of architectural styles. Owing to the legacy of almost 5000 years, India is witness to many monuments and styles of architecture. Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Wonders of the World and many masterpieces that the world marvels at, the list of best architectural buildings in India are innumerable.
To start with, the architecture of India inspire history lovers and culture enthusiasts, in addition of the most-seasoned of travelers to witness the beauties with their own eyes. In fact, architecture travel is one of the most sought inspirations to pay a visit to India.
Apart from the ethereal Taj Mahal, glorious forts and palaces, temples, there is a lot more to wonder at while on your travel to India. The prominent styles one can witness here in the monuments are: Temple architecture, Mughal architecture, Indo-Saracenic Revival Architecture, Dravidian Architecture, Cave Architecture, Rock-cut architecture among many others. Each unique and mesmerizing in their own way add to the delight of experiencing India.
Though with the passage of time many of the ancient Indian Architecture have been ravaged but still have not lost their charm. The first in India, the Indus Valley Civilization most of it all is lost, though there are excavation sites that hint at their artistic skills. Next, among the oldest that exist till date are the cave architecture of Bhimbetka, Ajanta and Ellora, Edakkal Caves, Elephanta Caves and more. Buddhist style architecture is said to be the first style. Monks used to chisel the masterpieces by hand and represent the finesse of their time.
While South India has some masterpieces of temple and Dravidian architecture, North India has some of the grand forts and palaces. With advent of religions segments like Jain architecture, Muslim Architecture, Sikh Architecture, etc. also came on the forefront. Mughal Architecture developed its own style of Indo-Islamic- Persian designs with unique stone masonry. The history of Indian Architecture has a special place reserved for its migratory population. The Dutch, Portuguese, French and British have contributed towards the architecture.
Rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram, Great Living Chola Temples, ruins of Hampi, Pattadakal, Aihole, Badami, Madurai and many more are some fine specimens of architecture in the South. Char Minar in Hyderabad, mighty forts of Marathas in Maharashtra, Group of temples in Khajuraho, exquisite samples in Orchha, Mandu, forts and churches of Goa and more. Also some of the most stunning examples of great architecture in India include the Buddhist monasteries and Jain temples. Religious tales and preaching have lent a distinctive appeal to them.
The Mughal architecture in India has its own legacy. Owing to their impressive treasure like the Humayun’s Tomb to the marvelous Taj Mahal, the Mughals are considered the greatest architects in India. The architectural treasures in Rajasthan, royal forts and places are among the glories to definitely enjoy with an architectural tour in India. The hill forts of Rajasthan deserve a special mention as these are listed among the list of UNESCO World heritage sites for their remarkable style.
Another fascinating chapter of architecture in India includes the Indo- European style architecture. During the British colonial era they had various monuments built, each with a unique style. India Gate, Gateway of India, Lutyen’s Delhi, Parliament House, Vidhan Sabha and any more are gems of the time.
To explore the rich architecture that has been contributed by many dynasties, religions, rulers, etc. choose from the various Architectural tours of India that have been listed.
