We’ve all heard of the seven wonders of the world, but did you know India has its own seven wonders? India, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and spiritual depth, boasts landmarks that captivate people worldwide. Let’s explore these seven wonders that showcase India’s vibrant heritage and incredible treasures.
The Seven Wonders of India
- Hampi Temple Complex (Karnataka)
- Khajuraho Group of Monuments (Madhya Pradesh)
- Golden Temple (Punjab)
- Konark Sun Temple (Odisha)
- Taj Mahal (Uttar Pradesh)
- Nalanda University (Bihar)
- Monolithic Gommateshwara Statue (Karnataka)
You might already know the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s seven wonders, but let’s dive into the lesser-known yet equally fascinating wonders of India.
1. Hampi Temple Complex, Karnataka
Located in Hampi, Vijayanagar, this sprawling temple complex covers 4,100 hectares and includes many significant Hindu temples. It offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights:
- Stone Chariot
- Virupaksha Temple
- Bazaar Street
- Vijaya Utsav
- Hemakuta Hills
Getting There:
- By Road: Easily accessible by bus, car, or taxi from Bangalore, Hubli, Hospet, and Goa.
- By Rail: Hospet Railway Station, 13 km away.
- By Air: Hubli Airport (160 km) or Bangalore for connecting flights.
Best Time to Visit: July to September and November to February.
Opening Time: Sunrise to Sunset (some sites may have different timings).
Entry Fees: No fees are required (some sites like Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Museum may require tickets).
2. Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh
This complex of Hindu and Jain temples, built by the Chandela Dynasty between 950-1050 CE, is renowned for its intricate carvings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights:
- Sculptures and Erotic Artistry
- Khajuraho Museum
- Light and Sound Show
Getting There:
- By Road: Well-connected by bus and taxi.
- By Rail: Khajuraho Railway Station, 10-15 minutes away.
- By Air: Khajuraho Airport, 5 km away.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
Opening Time: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹40 (Indian), ₹600 (Foreigner).
3. Golden Temple, Punjab
The Golden Temple, or Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest site in Sikhism, located in Amritsar. Built in 1581 and adorned with gold leaf in 1830, it attracts visitors worldwide.
Highlights:
- Langar Hall
- Sri Akal Takht Sahib
- Amrit Sarovar
- Golden Dome
Getting There:
- By Road: Well-connected by bus, car, or taxi.
- By Rail: Amritsar Railway Station, 3-4 km away.
- By Air: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, 13 km away.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
Opening Time: Open 24 hours a day.
Entry Fees: No fees are required.
4. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha
This 13th-century temple, dedicated to the sun god Surya, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its artistic and spiritual significance.
Highlights:
- Stone Chariot Wheel
- Garbhagriha
- Stone Carvings
Getting There:
- By Road: Accessible by state-run and private buses or taxis.
- By Rail: Puri Railway Station, 30 km away.
- By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport, 65 km away.
Best Time to Visit: October to November.
Opening Time: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹40 (Indian), ₹600 (Foreigner).
5. Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh
The Taj Mahal, a symbol of love, is a mausoleum made of ivory-white marble in Agra, built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Highlights:
- Main Mausoleum
- Reflecting Pool
- Charbagh
- Calligraphy of the Holy Quran
Getting There:
- By Road: Well-connected by highways and buses.
- By Rail: Agra Cantt. Railway Station, 6 km away.
- By Air: Agra Airport or Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, 220 km away.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and November to February.
Opening Time: 45 minutes before sunrise to sunset.
Entry Fees: ₹40 (Indian), ₹1050 (Foreigner).
6. Nalanda University, Bihar
Once a great Buddhist monastery and learning centre, Nalanda University was founded in the 5th century CE during the Gupta Empire. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights:
- Ancient Remains
- Nalanda Museum
- Sariputra Stupa
Getting There:
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis.
- By Rail: Nalanda Railway Station, 3 km away.
- By Air: Lok Nayak Jayaprakash International Airport, 97 km away.
Best Time to Visit: February to April and September to November.
Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fees: No fees are required.
7. Monolithic Gommateshwara Statue, Karnataka
This 57-foot-tall statue on Vindhyagiri Hill depicts Lord Bahubali and is a major Jain pilgrimage site.
Highlights:
- Vindhyagiri Hill
- Jain Matha
- Mahamastakabhisheka Festival
Getting There:
- By Road: Connected by government and private buses and taxis.
- By Rail: Shravanabelagola Railway Station, 15-20 minutes away.
- By Air: Mysore Airport, 97 km away.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
Opening Time: 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
Entry Fees: No fees are required.
These seven wonders of India represent a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and architectural marvels, each a testament to the nation’s creativity and spiritual depth. They are must-visit destinations for all travel and architecture enthusiasts.