India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, boasting historic cities that have been around since ancient times. These places are not just about stunning architecture; they also carry deep cultural meanings and lasting legacies.
As the birthplace of major religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, India has a special spot in global heritage. With a history that goes back over 5,000 years, the country has seen the rise and fall of powerful empires, bustling trade routes like the Silk Road, and the significant changes brought by colonialism. Key moments in its past, such as the golden ages of the Mauryan and Gupta empires, the Mughal period, and the fight for independence, have all contributed to India’s identity as a place of resilience and creativity.
Throughout the country, you’ll find ancient cities that have survived through the ages, keeping alive the spirit of India’s rich history. These cities, filled with architectural marvels, spiritual importance, and vibrant cultural traditions, are perfect spots for anyone who loves history. So, here are ten historic Indian cities from ancient times that you should definitely check out on your travels!
1. Varanasi (Kashi)
Varanasi, located right by the holy Ganges River, is one of the oldest cities in the world that’s still lived in today, dating back to around the 2nd millennium BCE. It was once a major center for Vedic religion and philosophy and thrived as a bustling marketplace known for its muslin and silk textiles, perfumes, ivory crafts, and sculptures.
Nowadays, Varanasi attracts tourists from all corners of the globe. The city’s ghats, which are stone steps leading down to the river, are a big part of what makes it special. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most vibrant spot, where every evening, priests perform the Ganga Aarti, lighting lamps and chanting prayers.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a key pilgrimage destination that showcases the city’s rich religious traditions.
Not far away, you can check out the 18th-century Ramnagar Fort, which features stunning Mughal architecture with intricate balconies and spacious courtyards. The fort’s museum has a unique collection of vintage cars, ornate sedan chairs, and manuscripts that give you a glimpse into the area’s royal history.
Just a short trip from Varanasi is Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon, making it an important place in Buddhist history.
2. Delhi
Delhi has a rich history that goes back over a thousand years, making it the heart of many empires that have left their mark on the city. It’s thought to be the mythical Indraprastha from the Mahabharata and has been the capital for both the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire, among others. In 1911, the British decided to move India’s capital to Delhi, which really boosted its importance.
Old Delhi, founded by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, is famous for the impressive Red Fort and the grand Jama Masjid. The narrow streets are always buzzing with activity, especially at Chandni Chowk, a market that dates back to the Mughal era.
On the flip side, New Delhi was designed by British architects Lutyens and Baker in the early 1900s and showcases colonial elegance with landmarks like Rashtrapati Bhavan and India Gate. Make sure to check out Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the peaceful Lotus Temple when you visit!
3. Ayodhya
Ayodhya, located by the Ghaghara River in Uttar Pradesh, is known as the birthplace of Lord Rama and holds a special spot in Hinduism, as well as being important to Buddhism and Jainism.
The newly opened Ram Mandir really highlights how significant Ayodhya is for religious folks.
Not too far away, Hanuman Garhi, a temple for Lord Hanuman, gives some awesome views of the city. The peaceful banks of the Saryu River, especially at Ram ki Paidi, are perfect for some quiet time and prayer.
During festivals like Diwali, Ayodhya comes alive with millions of oil lamps lighting up the ghats and streets, making it a truly magical sight.
4. Patna (Pataliputra)
Patna, which used to be called Pataliputra, was established in the 5th century BCE by Ajatashatru, who was the king of Magadha. It became the capital of the Magadha Empire when his son Udayin took over. Over the years, it thrived as a key center for big empires like the Maurya and Gupta dynasties, playing a major role in politics, culture, and education.
If you visit today, you can check out the ruins of Pataliputra at Kumhrar, where you’ll find remnants from the Mauryan era, including an impressive 80-pillared hall that gives you a taste of the city’s rich history.
The Patna Museum is home to cool artifacts like the Didarganj Yakshi, showcasing beautiful Mauryan art. The ghats along the Ganges River, like Gandhi Ghat, are peaceful spots perfect for some quiet time and are important to local customs.
Other historic sites worth seeing include Agam Kuan, an ancient well from Emperor Ashoka’s time, and Golghar, a huge granary built back in 1786.
5. Madurai
Madurai, often called the Athens of the East, is one of India’s oldest cities with a history that goes back over 2,000 years. Nestled along the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu, it has been an important cultural and religious hub since ancient times. The city’s roots are deeply connected to Tamil literature and the Tamil Sangams, which were gatherings of poets and scholars held here.
At the center of Madurai is the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a breathtaking example of Dravidian architecture. This temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), is famous for its tall gopurams (gateway towers) that are beautifully decorated with detailed carvings. The temple’s history stretches back to ancient days, with major enhancements made by the Nayak rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Another architectural gem is the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak. This palace showcases a mix of Dravidian and Islamic styles, featuring impressive pillars, arches, and a spacious central courtyard. It used to be the king’s home and a place for royal events.
If you’re curious about the city’s colonial history, the Gandhi Memorial Museum is a great spot to learn about India’s fight for independence. Located in the 17th-century Tamukkam Palace, the museum has a fascinating collection of items, including a blood-stained garment worn by Mahatma Gandhi.
And don’t miss out on exploring Madurai’s lively markets, like the Puthu Mandapam, which is right near the Meenakshi Temple. This 17th-century pillared hall has turned into a bustling marketplace where artisans sell textiles, jewelry, and various handicrafts.
- The Kuru Kingdom: Rise and Influence in Vedic India
- Hinduism: A Complex and Ancient Tradition
- Understanding Hindus
- The Atharvaveda: Folk Wisdom in the Vedic Tradition
- The Samaveda: The Veda of Chants
6. Ujjain
Ujjain, which is in central India, used to be called Ujjayini. It was the capital of the ancient Avanti Kingdom and played a major role during the Maurya and Gupta empires.
One of the city’s key spiritual spots is the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple draws tons of devotees looking for blessings and peace.
Ujjain is also famous for the Kumbh Mela, one of the biggest religious festivals in the world, happening every twelve years along the Shipra River. Millions of pilgrims flock here to take a holy dip, believing it washes away their sins.
Another interesting place is the Kal Bhairav Temple, which is dedicated to Kal Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. Here, they have some unique rituals, like offering liquor to the deity, which definitely catches the attention of many visitors.
Ram Ghat on the Shipra River is a peaceful area where people do rituals and ceremonies, especially during festivals. The evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at Ram Ghat is truly magical, with lamps lighting up the river and chants echoing all around.
If you’re into astronomy, you should check out Ujjain’s Jantar Mantar observatory, built in the 17th century, which highlights the city’s historical achievements in studying the stars.
7. Hampi (Vijayanagara)
Hampi, which sits by the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka, used to be the bustling capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, founded back in 1336 CE. By the 16th century, it had become one of the biggest and richest cities in the world, famous for its opulence and success. But everything changed in 1565 when the city suffered a huge defeat at the Battle of Talikota, leading to its decline and eventual abandonment.
These days, Hampi is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists with its breathtaking ruins. The Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is still an active place of worship and boasts impressive Dravidian architecture. Close by, the Vijaya Vittala Temple stands out with its famous stone chariot and musical pillars.
If you check out the Royal Enclosure, you’ll get a glimpse into the empire’s royal history. It includes structures like the Mahanavami Dibba, a grand platform for royal events. The Lotus Mahal, showcasing a mix of Indo-Islamic design, and the massive Elephant Stables really highlight the architectural genius of that era.
8. Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram, often called the City of a Thousand Temples, has a rich history that goes way back to the 2nd century BCE. It was the capital for the Pallavas from the 3rd to the 9th century CE and later thrived under the Chola and Vijayanagara empires.
When you visit Kanchipuram, you’ll be surrounded by stunning temples. One standout is the Kailasanatha Temple, which dates back to the early 8th century CE. It’s a great example of Pallava architecture, featuring detailed carvings that have stood the test of time.
Another impressive site is the Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is famous for its tall gopuram and the amazing thousand-pillared hall.
Don’t miss the Kamakshi Amman Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi and is a popular pilgrimage spot. The temple’s architecture is magnificent, with lovely carvings and a peaceful vibe.
Kanchipuram is also known for its beautiful handwoven silk sarees, a craft that’s been around for ages. The lively markets here are filled with these gorgeous textiles, making it a great place for shoppers and culture enthusiasts alike.
9. Pushkar
In Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma defeated the demon Vajranash using a lotus flower, and where the petals fell, lakes were formed, including Pushkar Lake.
Today, Pushkar is a lively pilgrimage spot located in Rajasthan’s Aravalli Range. It’s famous for the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. Both pilgrims and tourists flock to the sacred Pushkar Lake, which is surrounded by 52 ghats where people perform rituals and take holy dips.
The town really comes alive during the annual Pushkar Camel Fair, a long-standing tradition that has turned into a huge tourist attraction. This fair features camel trading, cultural performances, and bustling markets, giving you a taste of Rajasthan’s rich culture.
If you’re in the area, don’t miss the Savitri Mata Temple, which sits on a hill. You can reach it via a scenic ropeway that offers stunning views of Pushkar and its surroundings.
10. Thanjavur
Thanjavur, located in Tamil Nadu, was the capital of the Chola Empire from the 9th to the 11th centuries. During this time, it became a hotspot for culture and architecture, highlighted by the impressive Brihadishvara Temple.
Nowadays, Thanjavur draws in tourists with its rich history. The Brihadishvara Temple, which was finished in 1010 CE, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a stunning example of Chola architecture. Its tall vimana and detailed sculptures really show off the artistic talent of that period.
Right next to the temple is the Thanjavur Maratha Palace, also called the Nayak Palace, which gives a glimpse into the city’s more recent past. Built around 1550 CE by the Thanjavur Nayaks and later expanded by the Marathas, the palace complex features the Saraswathi Mahal Library, filled with ancient manuscripts, and an Art Gallery showcasing beautiful bronze and stone sculptures.
Thanjavur is also famous for its classical music, dance, and unique Tanjore painting style, all of which highlight its lasting cultural influence.
