India is home to some of the world's most beautiful and iconic ancient ruins, each telling a unique story about the country's rich history, culture and architectural grandeur. These timeless and iconic ruins are a testament to India's past and reflect art and craft of ancient civilisations.


Visitors can tour these historical sites to discover the ruins of grand palaces, beautiful temples and ancient forts where life once thrived. Whether you're immersed in the mysteries or the granduer of these ruins, these places provide an entertaining journey through time, inviting visitors to witness its legacy of kings and empires. These ruins are also a witness to the beauty of the ancient architecture and culture of India.


Here's A List Of Some Of India's Beautiful Ancient Ruins 


1. Masrur Temples, Himachal Pradesh


Located in Himachal Pradesh, Masrur Temple is an ancient stone temple dating back to the 8th century. Entirely carved from a single rock of sandstone, this beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and other deities. The temple resembles the architectural style of Ajanta and Ellora Caves with intricate carvings and ornate sculptures. 


With the Dhauladhar Ranges as its backdrop, Masrur Temple offers a fascinating and awe inspiring insight into the ancient and spiritual heritage of India. It's also a hidden gem that attracts devotees and history buffs.



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2. Rajgad Fort, Maharashtra


 Maharashtra's Rajgad Fort is one of the most important ancient forts in India woth arich history dating back to the 15th century. The fort was the capital of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It played a significant role in the rise of the Marathas. 


Located on the peak of Shyadri range, Rajgad is famous for its architecture which includes massive gates, cisterns, temples and magnificient bastions. Today, the fort stands as a magnet for travellers and history enthusiasts. It is a great ancient destination which tells about Maharashtra's past.




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3. Lothal, Gujarat


Located in the state of Gujarat, Lothal is one of the most famous ancient sites of the Indus Valley Civilisation, dating back to 2400 BC. Lothal was a thriving city and an important center of trade and commerce. It's known for its town planning which had well structed dockyards, warehouses, drainage systems, and residential areas. 


Lothal's artefacts including beads, pottery and seals, reveals its rich craftsmanship and maritime connections with ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. One of the best preserved Harappan sites, Lothal offers a wonderful insight into one of the world's earliest urban cultures and its greatest achievements.




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4. Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat


 Rani Ki Vav is a stepwell built in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati in memory of her husband, King Bhimdev I of the Solanki Dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its intricate architecture and striking sculpture depicting various deities including Lord Vishnu. 


The stepwell was originally designed to conserve water and later extended several stories underground. It showcases a combination of engineering and skill with over 500 detailed carvings and elaborate designs.



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5. Nalanda University, Bihar






Nalanda University, located in Bihar, is one of the oldest institutions representing the educational and intellectual heritage of India. Established in the 5th century AD, it is a renowned centre of learning that attracts scholars from all over the world, including China, Korea and other Asian countries. 

 

The university offers higher education in subjects suh as philosophy, medicine, astronomy and mathematics. It has beautiful surroundings including a large library, a church, classrooms and student accommodation. Although the ruins of Nalanda were destroyed in by invaders in the 12th century, they still reflect the greatness of one of the world's oldest universities and its contribution to global knowledge. 


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