India is an incredibly diverse country with a wealth of history. A melting pot of different religions, emperors and other rulers has left its unique mark on the landscape. Travel with us to four historic attractions in this fascinating country.
Just beyond Ajanta lies another stunning cave complex: the Ellora Caves, famous for its rich diversity of religious rock sculptures. Here you will find traditional Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments. The two cave complexes are not too far apart, so one can easily visit both Ajanta and Ellora.
Do you know about the Caves of Ajanta? Located just outside Aurangabad in the west of the country, this vast cave complex was hidden for many years. It was only in 1819 that a group of British officers on a tiger hunt uncovered the caves by accident.
They stumbled across an oasis full of splendid temples and monasteries carved into the rocks by a group of Buddhist monks at the beginning of the Common Era. Magnificent pillars, sculptures, ornaments and chambers form a series of 29 caves that are open to visitors. Lavish decorations on the walls and ceilings represent the life of Siddharta Gautama (Buddha) and are considered masterpieces of Buddhist religious art. These enormous caves are set in beautiful serene surroundings. It’s easy to see why the monks chose this spot to build their monasteries.
Do you like ghost towns? Then you will love Fatehpur Sikri. Built between 1569 and 1585, this fascinating ghost town was the ceremonial capital of the Mughal Empire during the Mughal dynasty. Emperor Akbar, one of the most famous Mughal rulers, built this city for the saint Salim Chishti who foretold that Akbar would sire three sons. Chishti’s prophesy came true and Fatehpur Sikri was built as a tribute.
However, a structural water shortage forced the residents to leave the city after 16 years. Fortunately, the city has been perfectly preserved and visitors can admire the spectacular collection of palaces and temples. The highlight is Chishti’s splendid tomb.
According to legend the Hindu god Brahma, creator of the world, dropped a lotus flower on earth. At the exact spot where the flower touched the ground, a lake emerged. The holy city of Pushkar was built around this lake and is still one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
Religious Hindus flock here to take their ritual morning bath in the holy water of Pushkar Lake. The shores are dotted with hundreds of temples. The most popular one is the Jagatpita Temple, the only Brahma temple in India. Brahma is said to have chosen the location of this temple himself; a testament to his good taste.
Every year nomadic tribes from the nearby deserts gather in Pushkar to trade their livestock at the world’s largest camel market. This important occasion is accompanied by a spectacular and colourful celebration. This year’s market will take place from 24-27 November.
