5 Must Visit Heritage Sites in India and Where to Stay

From majestic forts and regal palaces to excavation sites and ancient temples, India is a treasure trove of culture and history, with 35 UNESCO world heritage sites to its credit. Irrespective of which ever world renowned monument you wish to visit, we are here to ensure that your stay at the chosen destination remains drenched in luxury. Check into any of these plush hotels and explore the stunning heritage sites nearby that have been drawing visitors from all over the world.

UNESCO World Heritage Monument to Visit: Taj Mahal

Stay at: ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Agra

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When we talk of heritage, we obviously begin at the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Besides this marble wonder, the historic city of Agra has plenty of lush green gardens, forts, monuments and mosques for tourists to swoon over. Plan your trip to Agra around a full moon night to watch the Taj Mahal glow silver under the moonlight. The ITC Mughal is an ideal base for your Agra holiday as it captures the essence of Mughal splendour like none other. The property houses 233 rooms and 52 lavish suites, four of which overlook the Taj Mahal. To unwind after a day of hectic sightseeing, you can indulge in a spa or sauna, head to the in-house beauty salon or take a dip in the swimming pool. The hotel also has billiards, chess, lawn tennis, badminton and cycling for you to pass your time gainfully. You can treat your taste buds to some authentic Mughlai or Peshawari cuisine at the Taj Bano and Peshawari Restaurant, or enjoy some oriental delicacies at The Mahjong Room.

Book Your Stay at ITC Mughal, Agra

UNESCO World Heritage Monument to Visit: Temples of Khajuraho

Stay at: Taj Hotel Chandela, Khajuraho

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A symbol of great antiquity, Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh is home to sculptured temples dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva and the Jain patriarchs. Comprising about 85 temples spread over 21 square kilometres, Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site developed by the Chandela Dynasty between 9^th and 11^th century, famous for its erotic sculptures packed on to each temple wall and inside. Tucked away in peace and tranquillity, Taj Hotel Chandela offers easy access to these sandstone marvels famous for their intricately carved sensual sculptures. The property, sprawled over 11 acres of land, has a relaxed, laid-back vibe to it. The rooms are tastefully done up and loaded with all modern-day amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a minibar. The hotel’s casual atmosphere reflects in its cosy buffet restaurant, quaint bar with a pool table, and a 24-hour café. Between sightseeing outings, you can make the most of the palm-dotted outdoor swimming pool, gym, spa, salon and the BBQ area. While you are there, try to squeeze in a visit to the Panna National Park Tiger Reserve.

Book Your Stay at Taj Hotel Chandela, Khajuraho

UNESCO World Heritage Monument to Visit: Group of monuments in Hampi

Stay at: Orange County Resort, Hampi

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The ancient village and temple town of Hampi in Karnataka is a World Heritage Site comprising a group of magnificent monuments and ruins dotting a magnificent landscape. Hampi is packed with over 100 monuments including various notable Hindu temples, with Virupaksha Temple being one of the most significant one. Some of these function as active places of worship even today. Replicating the façade and architecture of these sites is the grand Orange County Resort spread over 28 acres of land. Its minimalist yet elegant style of architecture is permeated by floral arches, white corridors, tiny carved lotuses and vine-like inlays. The facility has 46 rooms and nine pool villas with dedicated living, dining and sleeping areas, along with an open bath and courtyards. The Tuluva and Bahamani restaurants, named after the two dynasties that ruled the region, serve some sinful Indian delicacies. You can enjoy a romantic candle light dinner at the Bahamani and follow it up with cigars and coffee in a true princely fashion. The Ayurvedic massage here is a must try for rejuvenating the mind and soul.

Book Your Stay at Orange County Resort, Hampi

UNESCO World Heritage Monument to Visit: Ajanta Caves

Stay at: Vivanta by Taj, Aurangabad

The Ajanta Caves in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, are a compilation of about 30 Buddhist cave monuments with sculptures cut out from rocks, and paintings conveying human emotion through form, pose and gesture. Home to some of the most magnificent masterpieces of art, these rock-cut caves date from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 or 650 CE. A convenient access point for these caves is Vivanta by Taj in Aurangabad. Set in a gleaming Mughal palace interspersed with 5 acres of tastefully landscaped lawns, this place is a luxurious haven in every sense of the word. After exploring the Ajanta Caves, spend a romantic evening with an intimate dinner on the picturesque lawns, rounded up with their very popular chocolate cake. You can also indulge in international, Chinese and authentic Maharashtrian cuisines at the different restaurants housed within the property. The mini golf lawns, garden spa and swimming pool offer umpteen avenues for fun and relaxation.

Book Your Stay at Vivanta by Taj, Ajanta Caves

UNESCO World Heritage Monument to Visit: The Arjuna’s Penance

Stay at: Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort

The Arjuna’s Penance, also referred to as the Descent of the Ganges, is a mammoth relief carved out of stone, dating back to the mid-seventh century. The massiveness of the rock structure carved with elephants, animal and human figurines can be gaged from the fact that a person standing next to it can barely reach the elephant’s feet right at the base. In close proximity of this monument is the Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort. Running along the pristine coastline of the Bay of Bengal, the resort offers a perfect blend of world-class luxury and a renascent Coromandel aesthetic. The rooms and suites, complete with a walk-in closet, overlook the Grand Courtyard or Lotus Pond. The suites also have an in-room dining provision, where you can enjoy a quiet meal by the windows overlooking the blue ocean. The property is equipped with a private beach, Ayurvedic spa, tennis court, and an outdoor pool. The menu here is an eclectic mix of European, Chinese, Pan Asian and Indian cuisines.

Book Your Stay at Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort

These five luxurious outings are sure to make you fall in love with the idea of heritage holidays and make you want to keep coming back for more.