Red Fort, Delhi

Built in 1638 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the Red Fort is a symbol of India's rich Mughal heritage. Made of red sandstone, this grand fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. It is renowned for its massive walls, the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the stunning architecture that reflects a fusion of Persian, Timurid, and Indian influences.

Agra Fort, Uttar Pradesh

The Red Fort and the Taj Mahal bear an exceptional and complementary testimony to a civilization which has disappeared, that of the Mogul Emperors. Agra's history goes back more than 2,500 years, but it was not until the reign of the Mughals that Agra became more than a provincial city. Humayun, son of the founder of the Mogul Empire, was offered Jewellery and precious stones by the family of the Raja of Gwalior, one of them the famous Koh-i-Noor. The heyday of Agra came with the reign of Humayun's son, Akbar the Great. During his reign, the main part of the Agra Fort was built.

The Red Fort of Agra is a powerful fortress founded in 1565 by the Emperor Akbar (1556-1605) on the right bank of the Yamuna; it is placed today on the north-west extremity of the Shah Jahan Gardens which surround the Taj Mahal and clearly form, with them, a monumental unity.

This bastioned fortress, with walls of red sandstone rising above a moat and interrupted by graceful curves and lofty bastions, encompasses within its enclosure walls of 2.5 km, the imperial city of the Mogul rulers. Like the Delhi Fort, that of Agra is one of the most obvious symbols of the Mogul grandeur which asserted itself under Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan.

The wall has two gates, the Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gate. The original and grandest entrance was through the Delhi Gate, which leads to the inner portal called the Hathi Pol or Elephant Gate. But now the entrance to the fort is only through the Amar Singh Gate.

Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal, was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in Agra Fort, from which he had a view of the building erected for his deceased wife. Shah Jahan is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a tower with a beautiful marble balcony.

Amber Fort, Rajasthan

Also known as Amer Fort, Amber Fort is situated on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, Amber Fort is a stunning example of Rajput architecture. Built in the late 16th century by Raja Man Singh I, the fort is known for its artistic elements, including large ramparts, series of gates, cobbled paths, and the famous Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace).

Chittorgarh Fort, Rajasthan

This massive fort, spreading over 700 acres, is the largest in India and symbolises Rajput valour and sacrifice. It has a rich history dating back to the 7th century and includes notable structures like the Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower), Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame), Rana Kumbha Palace, and the beautiful Padmini Palace. The fort has seen numerous battles and sieges and remains a testament to the bravery of its defenders.

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal. It is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world. The fort's unique feature is that it is still inhabited, housing a quarter of the city's population. It includes numerous palaces, temples,
and residential buildings, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan

Kumbhalgarh Fort was built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century, and is renowned for its massive walls, which stretch over 36 kilometres, making it one of the longest walls in the world. The fort complex includes numerous palaces, temples, and gardens. It is strategically located in the Aravalli Range and served as a refuge for the rulers of Mewar during times of conflict.

Ranthambore Fort, Rajasthan

Ranthambore Fort is located within the Ranthambore National Park. This, now dilapidated fort, was built in the 10th century by the Chauhan rulers. The fort is known for its strategic location on a hilltop and its formidable defences. It played a significant role in the history of Rajasthan, especially during the reign of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals. The fort complex includes temples, palaces, and reservoirs, offering stunning views of the national park and its wildlife.

Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra 

Ajanta and Ellora caves, considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves, are located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. Ajanta and Ellora caves complex is adorned with beautiful sculptures, paintings, and frescoes and include Buddhist monasteries, Hindu and Jain temples. The Ajanta caves are 29 in number and were built between the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD, whereas the Ellora Caves are more spread out and 34 in number and dates to the period between 6th and 11th Century AD.