India has a remarkable history and heritage that is even explored today. This country has been home to several kingdoms and dynasties throughout its history. That’s the reason you could see footprints of each civilization in this country in the form of culture, architecture, and a lot more. There countless ancient cities in India that one should visit once in a lifetime. Each destination has its unique story and culture that entices many travelers across the globe.
Here’s a list of the top 10 ancient cities in India that one must explore on his India Tour:
1. Madurai
Madurai has a history of 4,000 years back, scoring so many temples in this city from which Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is the famous one. This place is known for its magnificent architecture as this temple was built in the seventh-century, making it truly a masterpiece.
Highlights:
• Visit the temple that has thousands of pillars and pilgrims believe that Lord Shiva performs the dance bliss.
• Shop bright tie and sungudi sarees.
• Explore the Gandhi Museum for detailed independence insights.
Location- Tamil Nadu
2. Ayodhya
Ayodhya is one of the most ancient cities in India, which is popular for the Hindu epic Ramayana. This city is the birthplace of Lord Rama, settled on the banks of Sarayu River. It was once the capital city of acquainted kingdom Kosala. It is believed that the city is 9000 years old constructed by the Hindu God Manu.
Highlights:
• Visit the Hanuman Garhi temple that boasts 70 complicated steps in front of it.
• Visit Kanak Bhavan that is supposed to be a gift given by Kaikeyi to Sita (Lord Rama’s Wife).
• Visit the Gupt Ghat, which is considered as pure water as Lord Rama took “Jal Samadhi.”
Location- Uttar Pradesh
3. Ujjain
It is the most significant religious spot among Hindus in India. Ujjain is recognized as “Temple City” is home to thousands of old and new temples. It is settled on the banks of River Shipra and is renowned for the cultural fair Kumbh Mela.
Highlights:
• Explore Mahakaleshwar Temple, which is the 12th Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
• Visit the Kark Rajeshware Temple that is situated on the Tropic of Cancer.
• Take a dip in Shipra and clean all your sins.
Location- Madhya Pradesh
4. Varanasi
It is popularly known as the city of lights or Kashi, which is a sacred city on the West Bank of River Ganga. It is considered the most ancient city that has a history over 3000 years ago. This city is home to national and international pilgrims who want to experience the culture and tradition of Hindus.
Highlights:
• Ganga Arti.
• Shop famous Banaras sarees, hand-knotted carpets, etc.
• Explore temples that are 500-1000 years old.
Location- Uttar Pradesh
5. Hampi
Hampi is a popular ancient South Indian village recognized for its stone temples and ancient ruins. This village is situated on bumpy landscapes in the Bellary region of Karnataka, which is today UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts thousands of travelers every year.
Highlights:
• Visit ancient and beautiful temples.
• Enjoy sunrise and sunset over historic ruins.
• Enjoy trekking to Matunga and Anjuan Hills.
Location- Karanataka
6. Gwalior
Gwalior is a fantastic place that is home to royal residences, beautiful temples, and historic sites. This destination is quite famous for Gwalior Fort that has an astonishing history. Gwalior is also an ancient city with some forts.
Highlights:
• Visit various temples and Surajkund, a large tank that is believed to contain magical water.
• Visit Jai Vilas Palace and witness the great Scindia legacy in Gwalior.
• Explore the city in Jan and Feb to enjoy the most significant trade fair.
Location- Madhya Pradesh
7. Thanjavur
Thanjavur became a significant city during the rule of Cholas, who made it the capital city. By the 18th century, this city became a major cultural and heritage city of India. The city is known as the Rice Bowl of South India, as you would find a lot of rice fields.
Highlights:
• Visit the 11th Century Brihadeeswara temple, which is one of the most elegant architecture by Cholas.
• Witness Bharatnatyam recital.
• Shop Tanjore paintings and dolls
Location- Tamil Nadu
8. Pushkar
Pushkar is a beautiful city recognized for boasting only single Brahma Temple across the country. This city settled on the Banks of Sarovar River that sets its beauty apart from others. More so, the yearly Pushkar fair or mela is world-famous.
Highlights:
• Pushkar Camel Fair.
• Visit the only Brahma Temple.
• Take a dip in the sacred Pushkar Lake.
Location- Rajasthan
9. Vadodara
It is a famous city that was earlier known as Baroda. Vadodara is situated on the banks of River Vishwamaitri, and its history dates back to 2000 years. Today, the city is home to families of Gaekwads and most prominent colleges and schools of the state.
Highlights:
• Visit Laxmi Palace, one of the amazing architectural wonders of the state.
• Explore Sayaji Baug, a delightful garden that was built in 1879.
• Sursagar Lake in which the water never dries up.
Location- Gujarat
10. Puri
Puri is called “temple town,” which is the oldest city of India that one can’t miss out on. The Jagannath Temple is very popular among Hindu pilgrims located here. This temple is known for having the biggest kitchen on the planet.
Highlights:
• Witness Jagannath Rath Yatra.
• Explore the biggest kitchen in the temple.
• Visit the beautiful Puri Beach.
Location- Odisha