Historical Forts & Tombs to Visit in India
30 Historical Forts & Tombs to Visit in India
Bhadra Fort Sarkhej Roza Shah-e-Alam's Roza Rani no Hajiro Red Fort Hauz Khas Fort Qutub Minar Humayun's Tomb Purana Qila Charminar Golconda Fort Amber Fort and Palace Nahargarh Fort Jaigarh Fort Hawa Mahal Husainabad Clock Tower Farrukh Nagar Fort Sitabuldi Fort Sinhagad Fort Vishrambaug Wada Lal Mahal Ramnagar Fort Kondapalli Fort Taj Mahal Agra Red Fort Akbar Tomb Fatehpur Sikri Fort Complex Belapur Fort Bangalore Fort Gohar MahalBhadra Fort, India
Situated in the walled city area of Ahmedabad, near the eastern banks of Sabarmati River, Bhadra Fort was built by Ahmad Shah. Famous as the cultural center of the city, this colossal fort stands out with its imposing red stone architecture and lush gardens. It houses beautifully carved royal palaces, mosques, gates, and open spaces where you can witness intricate carvings, excellent lattice pattern works, and fascinating frescos suits. The fort derived its name from Bhadrakali temple which is also located on the premises. The Arches at the entry gate has inscriptions that exhibit the ancient history of the fort.
Sarkhej Roza, India
A fine reflection of rich Islamic culture with amazing stylistic influences from Persia with Indian Hindu and Jain features Sarkhej Roza exhibits a splendid Indo-Saracenic architectural style. Located at Post Jeevraj Park, Sarkhej Makarba Road, Makarba, Ahmedabad, Sarkhej Roza is an Islamic place of sacred worship and is known for its history, spirituality and, reverence. The impressive monument includes a splendid mosque, mausoleums housing the tombs of Saint Ahmed Khattu Ganj Baksh, King Mohammad Shah Begada, and his queen.
Shah-e-Alam's Roza, India
Shah-e- Alam Roza is a popular and medieval mosque also known as Rasulabad Dargah. It houses Shah e Alam's tomb complex with two mausoleums and Jama’at Khana. The main part of this Dargah is surrounded by a lofty and a bastioned wall. The majestic mosque has a trophy construction with an arch-shaped gate on the entrance with an impressive line of arch-shaped windows and pure white marble beautifully carved jalis. The mausoleums were built by Taj Kham Narpali popularly known as Shah-e- Alam Roza and are located near Shah Alam Darwaza at Sha Alam Road.
Rani no Hajiro, India
Located near Manek Chowk, Gandhi Road, Khadia, Ahmedabad, Rani no Hajiro is popularly known as Mughalai Bibi's Tomb or Tombs of Ahmed Shah's Queens. The tomb has an ornate gateway, an open courtyard enclosed by a magnificent trellised cloister with carved stone screens on the walls. The tombs are beautifully embellished with fine intricate carvings and are inlaid with pure mother-of-pearl and metal. The tombs are covered with rich brocade fabric. The architecture is an amazing blend of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic style.
Red Fort, India
The iconic fort also known as Lal Quila is located in Chandni Chowk Old Delhi. Constructed in red sandstone, it a is wonderful epitome of imposing power, architectural brilliance, and pompous style of the Mughal emperors. Its outstanding Main gate commonly known as Lahori gate attracts crowd, especially on Independence Day. It leads into the huge compound and a veritable treasure trove of magnificent buildings including Drum House, Peral Mosque, Royal Baths, and Palace of Color and white marble halls. Enjoy a lively evening of sound and light show as it re-creates events in India's history connected with the Red fort.
With Museum: Adults Indians (per person) - ₹56/-, Foreigners (per person) - ₹870/- also BIMSTEC, SAARC Countries ₹56/- (per person)
Hauz Khas Fort, India
Centrally located amidst posh South Delhi, Hauz Khas is upscale quaint village boasting of the 13th-century medieval history of Delhi Sultanate reign. Hauz Khas houses a Royal water tank, an Islamic seminary, an ancient mosque, Firuz Shah Tughlaq's tomb, and pavilions. Reflecting on the cultural essence of India's glorious past, Hauz Khas offers a thrilling shopping experience as it houses outlets of leading contemporary fashion designers. The Hauz Khas Complex is open from Monday to Saturday between 10:30 Am to 7:00 Pm as it retains its old-world charm, amidst well-manicured green parks, walkways lined with ornamental trees and surrounded by modern market and residential complexes.
Qutub Minar, India
Qutab Minar one of the finest monuments in India boasting of fine architectural design. Built-in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak, the soaring conical tower of victory is, 73 m-high and has five distinct stories, each marked by a projecting balcony. this UNESCO World Heritage Site has a Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque at the foot of the tower. A 7 m-high iron pillar stands right in the courtyard of the mosque. A band of the ancient inscription is engraved over its gate. Tourists can get an amazing birds-eye view of Delhi from its top on all days.
Humayun's Tomb, India
Humayun's Tomb reflects an amazing blend of Mughal and Persian architecture. Found close to Lodhi Road crossing, Jor Bagh, this superb garden tomb was designed by famous architects in the medieval era, Mirak Mirza Ghiyath and his eminent son Sayyed Muham. The construction was initiated by Hamida Banu Begum to keep the mortal remnants of Humayun, the popular Mughal Emperor. But, the construction was completed by Humayun's son Akbar. The Persian-inspired gardens surrounding the tomb are divided into four parts by causeways with a shallow water channel, connected to pools, a baradari, and hammam.
Purana Qila, India
Constructed in the ancient city of Delhi, Indraprastha, Purana Quila is rectangular shaped.The solid ramparts have 3 gateways endowed with bastions on each side. It was bounded by a broad moat and was connected with river Yamuna that flows on the eastern part of the fort. The Talaqui Darwaza also famous as The northern gateway combines the characteristically Islamic sharp arch with brackets and Hindu Chhatris. The Humayun Darwaza or the Southern gateway is also made on similar lines. The walls of Purana Quila were constructed by emperor Humayun and new capital, Dinpanah was laid. The work of Purana Quila that was left incomplete was finished by Sher Shah Suri. Wonderful sound and light show are held every evening over here.
Purana Qila Lake Ticket Price: Indians (per person) - ₹20/-, Foreigners (per person) - ₹20/- also BIMSTEC, SAARC Countries ₹20/- (per person)
Purana Qila Museums Ticket Price: Indians (per person) - ₹5/-, Foreigners (per person) - ₹5/- also BIMSTEC, SAARC Countries ₹5/- (per person)
Charminar, India
An outstanding historic monument of Hyderabad, Charminar with a beautiful architectural design is also called 'Arc de Triomphe of the East' and the 'Mosque of the Four Minarets'. This imposing square shaped edifice, built by Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah in the year 1951 has beautiful intricate carvings along with striking signature motifs on the pillars and giant-sized clocks on all sides. Charminar has been built with granite and lime mortar. On the top floor of Charminar there is an old mosque while in the middle of the courtyard, there is a 'Vazu Khana' with a small fountain
Golconda Fort, India
Golconda Fort is a majestic edifice in Hyderabad boasting of brilliant architectural design. You can have a panoramic view of the surrounding city, especially at the time of sunset from the top of this remarkable fort. The colossal Fort with Fatesh Darwaja, eight gates and 87 bastions, 80 feet tree, mounted cannons, drawbridges, massive halls, mosques is an outstanding historical monument alluring every visitor with its matchless beauty and grandeur. An attractive feature of this popular landmark of the city is the mesmerizing light and sound show which presents its history and facts.
Amber Fort and Palace, India
Perched on the hilltop of Aravalli Range, Amber Fort is an enthralling Fort and Palace. Popularly known as Amer Fort, this impressive historical edifice overlooks the scenic Maota Lake. This architectural masterpiece has an amazing maze of passages, a serpentine staircase, massive ramparts, and many gateways. Explore the Hall of Public Audience with its, Kesari Kyari, Sukh Mandir, Jai Mandir, and captivating Sheesh Mahal with its beautiful mirrored ceilings. Enjoy a thrilling elephant ride to reach the fort. Another main attraction is the wonderful light and sound show held in the evening. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located almost 11 km from Jaipur.
Night Light Shows: ₹100/- (per person)
Nahargarh Fort, India
Nahargarh Fort is the main tourist destination of Jaipur symbolizing history, royalty, and spectacular beauty of nature. This majestic fort nestled in Aravalli hills offers a mesmerizing sight in the evening as the entire place is beautifully lit. Also, a popular shooting location, this splendid fort has many structures within including temples, impressive Madhewandra Bhavan with beautiful frescoes, Sheesh Mahal, Wax museum, and Biological park. The view of Jaipur City from the top is stunning. Indulge in cycling and trekking to explore the massive Fort, located 6 Km from Jaipur.
Jaigarh Fort, India
Popularly known as Victory Fort, this grand structure is placed on’ Hills of Eagles’. The grand fort, constructed in red sandstone is a wonderful example of Mughal architectural skills. The colossal edifice is surrounded by lush greenery and massive battlements. The windows on the walls of the fort are made of lattices which offer a panoramic view of exteriors without being observed from outside. Explore the beautiful Persian garden inside the fort complex. See amazing 'Jaivana Cannon' which is the largest cannon on wheels, Laxmi Vilas, Aram Mandir, Lalit Mandir, and Vilas Mandir. Located approximately 15 km from Jaipur.
Hawa Mahal, India
Positioned at the edge of City Palace, Hawa Mahal is also known as the” Palace of Winds. This prominent landmark is a five-storied historical monument made in a pyramid style with a royal entrance and elegantly designed interiors. It is constructed with pink and red sandstone and has almost 933 windows known as 'Jharokhas'. It resembles a delicately carved honeycomb hive from where the fresh breeze could come from outside while the queens watched the revelry on the streets. It has exquisite stone-carved screens, arched roofs, tiny casements, and deftly made hanging cornices.
Husainabad Clock Tower, India
Locally known as the Ghanta Ghar the 221 ft. tall magnificent structure displaying the Victorian-Gothic style architecture is by far the tallest in the country. Bearing a striking similarity with Big Ben of England the four-faced clock tower stands close to Rumi Darwaza. It was constructed in 1881 by the Hussainabad Trust to welcome first Lieutenant Governor of Awadh, George Cooper. The architectural stunner has a clock made of gunmetal with a 1 ½ inches thick and 14 feet long pendulum and 12 petalled floral dial. Earlier it was operated manually but in 2010 it was upgraded to an electrical version.
Farrukh Nagar Fort, India
Farrukh Nagar Fort was set up in 1732 by Faujdar Khan. He serves as a Governor to Emperor Farrukhsiyar. This Mughal fort is known for its outstanding design. It was built in 1732. This fort is popular about history buffs and adventure seekers. It takes around 2 to 3 hours to see the fort in totality. The structure and design element of the Farrukh Nagar Fort is sure to impress anyone that visits this fort.
Sitabuldi Fort, India
The citadel located atop a hillock in central Nagpur is present at the site where the Battle of Sitabuldi was fought between the British and the Kingdom of Nagpur in 1817. It was built by Mudhjoi ll Bhonsle and has been a witness to the third Anglo-Maratha war. Its rich historic significance and its presence on hillocks popularly called Badi Tekri the large hill, and Choti Tekri the small hill draws a multitude of visitors from world-over. A memorial has been erected inside the fort to commemorate the death of the soldiers during the war. The fort is currently occupied by the Indian Army and remains open for the public visit on the National Holidays.
Sinhagad Fort, India
Perched on the top of the Sahyadri Mountains, this is an amazing historical fortress. The ancient structure exhibits brilliant architecture and stands testimony to many battles. Now, Singhbad Fort meaning ‘Lion’s Fort’, is visited by many history buffs, photographers, and nature lovers. It is an ideal venue for trekkers as the fort is positioned at a height of more than 750 meters. This is a perfect weekend getaway situated almost 35 km from Pune where you can relax and unwind amidst scenic surroundings of the verdant hills. There is no entry fee and the fort remain open round the clock.
Vishrambaug Wada, India
Vishrambaug Wada is an impressive mansion with immense historical value. The three-storeyed edifice showcases the amazing Architectural skill of Marathas. The opulent structure boasts of intricate woodwork made in teak, appealing design with beautifully carved balconies cypress-shaped columns, and beautifully decorated ceilings. The outer facade of the mansion is remarkable with delightful monkey-like gargoyles made of wood placed at the balconies looking at the lively street below. It also has a big inner courtyard with grand staircases and appealing wooden shutters. The Durbar Hall with its grand chandeliers is impressive with imposing wooden columns and carved arches. Located at RB Kumthekar Road Perugate Sadashiv Peth, in Pune, it is open from 10:AM to 5; 00 PM every day.
Lal Mahal, India
One of the popular monuments located in Pune, Lal Mahal was constructed in 1630 AD by Raje Shahaji Bhosale,who was the father of Shivaji Maharaj. He made this Mahal for his wife Jijabai and his son. It is said that Shivaji Maharaj resided here for several years. This place was renovated as the earlier Lal Mahal turned into remnants. It is found in the center of the city. It has a lot of historical significance associated to it. Lal Mahal is popular owing to the encounter between Shivaji and Shaista Khan and the fable goes that Shivaji cut off his finger when he tried to escape from the window of this Mahal.
Ramnagar Fort, India
This fortified structure is made in sandstone. The historical fort was built by Kashi Naresh, The King of Varanasi, in the 18th century in classic Mughal styled architecture with intricately carved balconies, pavilions, and open courtyards. There is a massive Durbar hall and a reception room. The majestic edifice is on the eastern banks of River Ganga, right opposite Tulsi Ghat. The fort houses ancient Veda Vyasa temple, and famous Dakshin Mukhi Hanuman Temple, along with a museum known as Saraswati Bhawan, and a big astronomical clock. The private residential area of the king is not opened for the tourists.
Kondapalli Fort, India
Located in Kondapalli, Guntur at about 23 km away from Vijayawada the 14th-century imperial fort is an architectural delight. The structure reflects a blend of Persian, Mughal, and Bahamani style since it has roots in parallel histories. The resplendent complex has an entrance gate, Dargah Darwaja, made up of a single boulder of granite walls of the fort remain adorned with inscriptions and paintings. The fort houses relics of Dargah of Gareeb Saheeb, Golconda Darwaza, Tanisha Maha and reserves of sculptures, ancient coins. The unique and beautifully colored wooden toys are sold here, which visitors like to carry as memoirs. The fort offers a picturesque view of the valley and is an ideal place for picnicking.
Taj Mahal, India
Agra is famous for its wonderful monument, The Taj Mahal is known for its matchless beauty. Constructed in an ivory-white marble this magnificent mausoleum is placed on the south bank of the Yamuna river. Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World is constructed in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, it houses the tomb of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal and the tomb of Shah Jahan himself. Discover the glorious beauty and wonderful aura created by beautiful fountains, exquisite display of lights, artistic carvings and intricate inlay work of this splendid architectural gem of India.The magical splendor and beauty of Taj Mahal will leave you enthralled.
Agra Red Fort, India
This gigantic 16th-century Mughal monument also known as the Red Fort of Agra is located near the gardens of the Taj Mahal in Rakabganj. Agra Fort is a sprawling historical fort and it was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638. The massive Agra fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its architectural creativity and brilliant design, and Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas, Moti Masjid, and Sheesh Mahal are worth seeing. The famous Agra Fort is built on a sprawling 2.5-kilometer radius and is constructed in red sandstone.
Akbar Tomb, India
Akbar's tomb is another brilliant Mughal architectural masterpiece. Built in 1605 and 1613, by his son Jahangir. This final resting place of the great Mughal Emperor spans over an area of 119 acres in Sikandra, in the suburbs of Agra, 8 km west of the city core. The tomb of the Mughal emperor Akbar is an important example of Mughal architectural brilliance. The gold, beautiful jewels, silver ornaments and carpets were plundered from Akbar's tomb constructed in sandstone and white marble.
Fatehpur Sikri Fort Complex, India
The ruined city of Fatehpur Sikri is located in Buland Gate, Dadupura, near Agra.This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts of extraordinary architectural ingenuity, brilliant design and exhibits a unique blend of Hindu and Muslim creative style of design. The sprawling complex with seven gates and a boundary wall of 6 km exhibits unique decorations and embellishments . It represents the saga of royal Mughal legacy in red sandstone and pure white marble. Located 39 km from the Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a stupendous structure. You can click interesting pictures and carry back lovely memories.
Belapur Fort, India
The 16th century Belapur Fort is a living testimony to Siddi architecture in Mumbai. Siddis constructed the fort atop a hill on an island called Shahbaz. Belapur harbor was located adjacent to the fort from where the boats sailed up the Panvel creek. The fort has a deep-rooted history and has witnessed the transition of ownership. It attracts visitors and tourists from all over and one cannot but marvel at the remarkable examplar of the sea fort architecture. Nestled among lush green panoramic surroundings, it is believed to remain connected with Gharapuri island which has the famous Elephanta caves through an underground tunnel. It is a hot spot of tourist activity owing to its historical significance and picturesque surroundings.
Bangalore Fort, India
Bangalore Fort in the year 1537 was just a mud fort. In 1761 Hyder Ali changed the mud fort into a stone fort, which was further enhanced by Tipu Sultan his son in the 18th Century. Though not much of the Bangalore fort remains today it is an ancient heritage of the city. It was a huge fort but currently, only the Delhi Gate and a section of the fortification are visible. In the earlier times even Tipu Sultan’s summer fort was also a part of the Bangalore Fort but today it is a separate structure. Some of the attractions within the Bangalore Fort are Fort High School, Kote Venkataramana Temple, and Vani Vilas Hospital.
Gohar Mahal, India
Gohar Mahal is situated, alongside the placid Upper Lake in Bhopal near the Shaukat Mahal on VIP Road, Kakkar Khana, Chowki Talaiya in Peer Gate Area. It was built in 1820 by the first female ruler of Bhopal. Qudisiya Begum. It holds immense historical significance as the palace reflects the golden past of erstwhile Begums and Nawabs and is one of the most cherished places in Bhopal. Gohar Mahal is an ideal reflection of the architectural brilliance of Mughal and Hindu architecture.
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