With the Vindhya Mountains welcoming you, North India is a combination of vast plains, grassy hills, and snow-capped peaks. Comprising 12 of the nation’s states and featuring more moderate temperatures than its tropical cousins, the northern region of the country offers numerous options for India holidays. This includes many UNESCO World Heritage Sites that cannot be missed.
The northernmost UNESCO World Heritage to take a look at on one of your India holidays is Qutb Minar, situated in the state of Delhi. The largest minaret in India, construction of the sandstone tower began in the late 12th century. Though struck by lightning several times in its history, the five-story tower has survived through a number of restorations. Today, the Qutb Minar is surrounded by other buildings and monuments that have cropped up over the centuries. These include the 13th century Alai-Darwaza Gate and the Alai Minar, a minaret that was supposed to top Qutb.
Another is Fatehpur Sikri, located not far from the India-Pakistan border in Uttar Pradesh, Agra District. Established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, the city was the short-term home to the Mughal Empire capital in the late 16th century. While just a small part of the city has been preserved, the buildings that survived, and the monuments outside of its walls, provide visitors with a prime example of architectural styles between 1571 and 1585. Some of the more significant sites of Fatephur Sikri are the Diwan-i-Am, where city officials handed out sentences to citizens, the Buland Damaza, a monument honouring the taking of Gujarat in 1572, and the Jama Masjid – considered one of the roomiest mosques in India.
Another site to consider when planning your India holidays is located in the northern city of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Jantar Mantar, constructed towards the end of the Mughal period of rule in the early 17th century, was designed for the purpose of observing the position of astronomical objects using only the naked eye. A prime example of sturdy Indian architecture, UNESCO declared this a Word Heritage Site due to its set of 22 unique astronomical instruments and its application as both a scientific and theological building.
Combined with stays at some the areas luxurious and historic hotels and stops for unique shopping and dining, visits to these three must see UNESCO Word Heritage Sites should be staples of any India holidays. By mixing ancient history with modern amenities, one will get a full understanding of India’s history.
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