India is a country full of architectural masterpieces, as we are all aware. It is highly recommended to arrange at least one trip to India for those who wish to see its beauty. The nation is home to a lot of breathtaking locations. This is a list of the most famous places in India that you should not miss knowing. Read this article to go through the list of famous places in India, which will help in the preparation for upcoming competitive exams such as Railways, SSC, UPSC, Defence Exams (AFCAT, NDA, CDS ), and more.
Table of Contents
- 1 Famous Places in India: GK Practice Test Questions
- 2 Historically Famous Places in India
- 3 Famous Places in India – Spiritual
- 4 Must-Visit Architectural Wonders in India
- 5 Which Are The Best Places In India For Nature Lovers?
- 6 The Top Cultural Capitals of India
- 7 List of Important & Famous Places in India: GK Topics for Exams
- 8 FAQs
Famous Places in India: GK Practice Test Questions
GK questions about well-known locations are frequently asked in a variety of competitive exams, including state-level exams, bank exams, UPSC, and SSC exams. All the questions about well-known locations in India and around the globe are included in this section. These questions are important for applicants to prepare for the competitive exams. GK questions about well-known locations are provided here in a quiz style. Additionally, new questions will occasionally be added to this section.
1: In which state are the Ajanta Caves located?
A. Rajasthan
B. Maharashtra
C. Punjab
D. Uttar Pradesh
Answer: B. Maharashtra
2: Where is Anand Bhawan situated?
A. Delhi
B. Allahabad
C. Jaipur
D. Srinagar
Answer: B. Allahabad
3: The Bhakra Dam is located in which Indian state?
A. Maharashtra
B. Punjab
C. Rajasthan
D. West Bengal
Answer: B. Punjab
4: In which city is the Birla Planetarium situated?
A. Mumbai
B. Calcutta
C. Delhi
D. Jaipur
Answer: B. Calcutta
5: Where can you find the iconic Charminar?
A. Delhi
B. Hyderabad
C. Srinagar
D. Agra
Answer: B. Hyderabad
6: What is the location of Dal Lake?
A. Jaipur
B. Srinagar
C. Agra
D. Delhi
Answer: B. Srinagar
7: Qutub is a historical monument located in which city?
A. Jaipur
B. Delhi
C. Calcutta
D. Hyderabad
Answer: B. Delhi
8: India Gate is a prominent landmark in which city?
A. Mumbai
B. Delhi
C. Jaipur
D. Allahabad
Answer: B. Delhi
9: Where is the Rashtrapati Bhawan situated?
A. Calcutta
B. Delhi
C. Agra
D. Srinagar
Answer: B. Delhi
10: In which city is the famous Amber Palace located?
A. Delhi
B. Jaipur
C. Hyderabad
D. Allahabad
Answer: B. Jaipur
Let’s solve some advanced-level questions on famous places in India:
1) The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology is situated at:
a) Patna.
b) Jaipur.
c) Hyderabad.
d) New Delhi.
Answer: A: Hyderabad
2) Where are Bhimbetka caves located?
a) Agra.
b) Madhya Pradesh.
c) Maharashtra.
d) West Bengal.
Answer: A: Madhya Pradesh
3) Bijapur is known for its:
a) Severe drought conditions.
b) Gol Gumbaz.
c) Heavy rainfall.
d) Statue of Gomatswara.
Answer: A: Gol Gumbaz
4) The famous Konark Temple in Orissa was built by whom?
a) Rajraja.
b) King Narsimhadeva.
c) Firoz Shah Tughloq.
d) None of these.
Answer: A: King Narsimhadeva
5) Mahabodhi Temple is located at?
a) Bodh Gaya.
b) Agra.
c) Tamil Nadu.
d) New Delhi.
Answer: A: Bodh Gaya
6) In which year was the Fatehpur Sikri built?
a) 1565.
b) 1547.
c) 1569.
d) 1578.
Answer: A: 1569
7) The Reserve Bank of India is headquartered at?
a) New Delhi.
b) Chennai.
c) Kolkata.
d) Mumbai.
Answer: A: Mumbai
8) The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre is based at?
a) Hyderabad.
b) Pune.
c) Thiruvananthapuram.
d) Bangalore.
Answer: A: Thiruvananthapuram
9) Bagh a village in Gwalior is famous for:
a) Sculptures.
b) Architecture.
c) Cave Painting.
d) All of the above.
Answer: A: Cave Painting
10) Kanha National Park is in:
a) Shimoga.
b) Bellary.
c) Chhattisgarh.
d) Nainital.
Answer: A: Chhattisgarh
11) Brihadeshwara Temple is dedicated to:
a) Lord Sun.
b) Gautam Buddha.
c) Lord Shiva.
d) None of these.
Answer: A: Lord Shiva
12) Which city is known as the Electronic City of India?
a) Mumbai.
b) Hyderabad.
c) Gurgaon.
d) Bangalore.
Answer: A: Bangalore
13) Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) is based at:
a) Varanasi.
b) Chennai.
c) Hyderabad.
d) Kanpur.
Answer: A: Chennai
14) The Indian Museum in India is located at:
a) Mumbai.
b) Hyderabad.
c) New Delhi.
d) Kolkata.
Answer: A: Kolkata
15) Identify the state in which Chauri Chaura is located.
a) Uttar Pradesh.
b) Rajasthan.
c) Maharashtra.
d) Bihar.
Answer: A: Uttar Pradesh
16) National Chemical Laboratory is based at:
a) Mumbai.
b) Chennai.
c) Pune.
d) New Delhi.
Answer: A: Pune
17) Where is the Forest Research Institute?
a) Bhopal.
b) Gwalior.
c) Lucknow.
d) Dehra Dun.
Answer: A: Dehra Dun
18) The National Institute of Nutrition is located in which of the following places?
a) Bangalore.
b) Kerala.
c) Gandhinagar.
d) Hyderabad.
Answer: A: Hyderabad
19) Where is the famous Khajuraho sculptures located?
a) Gujarat.
b) Madhya Pradesh.
c) Orissa.
d) Maharashtra.
Answer: A: Madhya Pradesh
20) The National Police Academy is located at:
a) Bangalore.
b) Hyderabad.
c) Abu Road.
d) Dehradun.
Answer: A: Hyderabad
Historically Famous Places in India
How many historical sites you have visited in India? 2, 3, or 5? Did you know that there are many historical sites in our nation that carry fascinating tales behind them? All of these tales have been a part of history and have fascinated the people who visit these monuments. Some take you back in time, while others have some paranormal stories attached to them that will give shivers down your spine. These are some of the most famous historical places in India that every competitive exam aspirant should know about :
Place | Highlights |
Taj Mahal | Nighttime shows |
Agra Fort | Jahangir Palace, Nagina Masjid, Moti Masjid, Mina Masjid, Zenana Mina Bazaar |
Red Fort | The Palace of Colors (Rang Mahal) |
Qutub Minar | Decorative Light Show, Qutub Minar Festival |
Humayun’s Tomb | The Dormitory of the Mughals |
Fatehpur Sikri | Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas |
Hawa Mahal | Intricate lattice work on tiny windows |
Khajuraho Temples | Sound and Light Show |
Sanchi Stupa | Ashoka pillar, depicting scenes from Jataka tales |
Konark Temple | Statues of the sun gods at dawn, noon, and sunset |
Also Read: Top 9 Educational Field Trips for School Students in India
Famous Places in India – Spiritual
India is regarded as one of the world’s most spiritual locations and is home to yoga as well as several important religions like Buddhism, Sikhism, and Hinduism. India was visited by The Beatles, Mark Twain and Steve Jobs. Visit these popular sacred destinations of various faiths to enhance your spiritual experience in India:
Place | Highlights |
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | A pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Vajrasana, monasteries, meditation and yoga retreats. |
Haridwar, Uttarakhand | “Gateway to God,” on the banks of the Ganges, Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, Kumbh Mela, grand religious festival, spiritual experience. |
Amritsar, Punjab | Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Jallianwala Bagh, Partition Museum, cultural heritage, historical significance. |
Bodh Gaya, Bihar | A pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Mahabodhi Temple, UNESCO World Heritage site, Vajrasana, monasteries, meditation and yoga retreats. |
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand | “Yoga Capital of the World,” Ganges River, ashrams, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, adventure activities (rafting, trekking), natural beauty, ancient temples. |
Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu | Annamalaiyar Temple, Ramana Maharshi Ashram, vibrant culture, historical significance, picturesque Annamalai hills. |
Ajmer, Rajasthan | Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Taragarh Fort, Ana Sagar Lake, Urs festival, historical and architectural wonders. |
Mathura and Vrindavan, UP | Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, Banke Bihari Temple, ISKCON Temple, Holi and Janmashtami festivals. |
Shirdi, Maharashtra | Sai Baba Temple, Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai Mosque, Chavadi, Sai Baba Punyatithi festival. |
Kedarnath and Badrinath, Uttarakhand | Kedarnath – Jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva, Badrinath – dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Char Dham pilgrimage sites, Known for their natural beauty, and spiritual practices. |
Vaishno Devi, Jammu & Kashmir | Vaishno Devi Shrine, Trikuta Hills, 13-km trek, Pindis representing goddesses, Bhairavnath, serene surroundings. |
Hampi, Karnataka | UNESCO World Heritage Site, Virupaksha Temple, ruins of Vijayanagara Empire, historical significance, religious importance. |
Also Read: Revisit the Landmarks of Indian Independence Struggle!
Must-Visit Architectural Wonders in India
There is little doubt that most people would choose India as their top pick if they had to choose one of the most magnificent nations. India is full of the most stories, histories, architecture, and happenings since the most ancient of times. Here we have mentioned a list of must-visit architectural wonders in India.
Site | Highlights |
Ajanta Caves | A set of 34 rock-cut Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu temples and monasteries representing skilled architecture from around 350 to 700 AD. The Kailasha Temple is a notable structure with impressive chiselling and engravings. |
Ellora Caves | An elaborate South Indian temple with 12 massive gates (Gopuram) and a hall of thousand pillars. Reconstructed in the 17th century, it showcases rich sculpting, designs, and carvings, and is a major pilgrimage and cultural site. |
Statue of Gomateshwara (Bahubali) | A 57-foot tall statue of Gomateshwara (Bahubali), an architectural marvel built in 983 A.D., symbolizing Jainism. The statue is carved out of a single rock monolith and stands at an altitude of 3350 feet above sea level. |
Meenakshi Amman Temple | An elaborate South Indian temple with 12 massive gates (Gopuram) and a hall of a thousand pillars. Reconstructed in the 17th century, it showcases rich sculpting, designs, and carvings, and is a major pilgrimage and cultural site. |
Sun Temple, Konark | A World Heritage Site representing Odisha temple architecture from the 13th century. The temple was conceived as a massive chariot structure with carved wheels and intricate human and animal figures. Certain sections, like the main sanctum, have not survived. |
Jantar Mantar | The second-largest monastery in the world, located at an altitude of 10,000 feet. Founded in the 17th century, it features colourful gates, murals, and a main temple with a large Buddha figure. |
Tawang Monastery | Built-in memory of Queen Victoria in 1901, this Indo-Saracenic and Mughal-inspired structure incorporates various architectural styles. The museum inside exhibits memorabilia from the British Raj era. |
Victoria Memorial | A war memorial was built to honour Indian soldiers who died in World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Designed by Sir Edwards Lutyens, it includes the Amar Jawan Jyoti flame and stands as an iconic symbol in New Delhi. |
Golconda Fort | A hill fortress serving as the capital of the Golconda Kingdom. The fort includes halls, royal apartments, mosques, and unique acoustic features. Notable gates include Fateh Darwaza and the largest Eastern gate open for visitors. |
India Gate | An ancient Buddhist monastery and learning centre that flourished from the 5th to 12th century. Attracted students from various regions, and had significant contacts with countries like China, Korea, Tibet, and Central Asia. |
Mysore Palace | The seat of the Wodeyar royal family was reconstructed in its present form in 1897. The palace showcases a blend of British, Hindu, Muslim, and Rajput architectural styles. The interiors feature luxurious rooms, carvings, and artworks. |
Lotus Temple | A Baha’i House of Worship with a lotus-shaped structure and 27 free-standing marble “petals.” It promotes spiritual unity and accommodates 2,500 people. The complex includes ponds and gardens, providing a serene atmosphere. |
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus | A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was completed in 1888 and serves as a major railway station. Designed by F.W Stevens, it features Victorian Gothic and Indo-Saracenic styles, with carvings, turrets, and pointed arches. |
University of Nalanda | The capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century featured temples, monuments, and palaces. The architecture blends Indian and Islamic styles, known as the Indo-Saracenic style. Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
Ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire | The capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century featured temples, monuments, and palaces. The architecture blends Indian and Islamic styles, known as the Indo-Saracenic style. Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
Humayun’s Tomb | A Mughal-era tomb commissioned by Humayun’s wife, blending Persian architectural elements. Mirak Mirza Ghiyas was the architect. The tomb’s design is believed to have inspired the Taj Mahal. It is surrounded by Persian-style gardens. |
Akshardham Temple | A stone-built temple complex near the Yamuna River with 234 carved pillars, 9 domes, and about 20,000 idols. It represents India’s spiritual traditions and philosophy and offers shows on various aspects of Indian culture. |
Rani Ka Vav | An 11th-century stepwell commissioned by Queen Udaymati to worship the Saraswati River. This structure has seven storeys with intricately carved sculptures, especially depicting the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. |
Khajuraho Group of Monuments | Built by the Chandela dynasty in the 10th and 11th centuries, the temples feature refined sculptures and elegant proportions. Out of 85 original monuments, 20 have survived, showcasing |
Also Read: 15 Interesting Facts about Charminar for Kids
Which Are The Best Places In India For Nature Lovers?
When it comes to beauty and diversity, there is nowhere quite like India. Some of the most breathtaking natural beauties in the world may be found throughout the nation, from the beaches to the snow-capped Himalayas. India offers a lot of natural experiences for environment enthusiasts, including trekking through the hills of Uttarakhand and experiencing the backwaters of Kerala.
Whether you’re searching for an exciting trekking adventure or a getaway from the chaos of the city, India has some incredible locations that will meet your demands. Therefore, these locations are ideal for you if you’re searching for a distinctive experience near nature!
Here are the must-see destinations for nature lovers :
Destination | Highlights |
Ladakh, Jammu Kashmir | Rugged terrain, high-altitude passes, ancient monasteries, camping, trekking, and unique cultural experience. |
Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh | World Heritage Site, the largest population of one-horned rhinoceros, guided tours, birdwatching and wildlife spotting. |
Kaziranga National Park, Assam | World Heritage Site, the largest population of one-horned rhinoceros, guided tours, birdwatching and wildlife spotting. |
Sundarbans, West Bengal | Bengal tigers, diverse wildlife, boat ride through the forest, birdwatching. |
The Western Ghats, Maharashtra | Tropical rainforests, coral reefs, pristine beaches, scuba diving, snorkelling. |
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan | Bengal tigers, wildlife, guided tours, bird-watching. |
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Tropical rainforests, coral reefs, pristine beaches, scuba diving, snorkeling. |
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand | Vibrant wildflowers, alpine meadows, trekking, camping. |
Silent Valley National Park, Kerala | Lush tropical forests, abundance of faunal species, naturalists, birdwatching. |
Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand | Indian elephants, white tigers, biodiversity, jeep safaris, camping. |
The Top Cultural Capitals of India
India is regarded as one of the world’s most diverse countries. India is a nation rich in ethnic diversity and culture, deserving of the title “Incredible India,” with a sizable population representing five main global faiths, 100 different languages, over 700 distinct tribal groupings, 38 UNESCO Global Heritage Sites and six traditional dance forms. There are 28 states in India as of right now, and every state has a city that is considered to be the cultural centre of the state or area. Here we have listed out some of them:
Cultural Capital | Main Attractions | Notable Dishes |
Kolkata, West Bengal | Victoria Memorial, Dakshineswar Temple, Howrah Bridge | Chelo Kebab, Chicken A La Kie, Mishti Doi |
Madurai, Tamil Nadu | Meenakshi Amman Temple, Aayiram Kaal Mandapam | Idlis, Dosas, Kari Dosai, Parotta and Mutton Curry |
Pune, Maharashtra | Lal Mahal, Shaniwarwada, Nehru Stadium, Sarasbaug | Keema Pav, Chicken Jumbo Burger, Mysore Masala Dosa |
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | Dasaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Vishwanath Temple | Kachori-sabzi, Chena Dahi Vada, Thandai |
Jaipur, Rajasthan | Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, City Palace | Rajasthani Thali, Dal-Baati Churma, Ghewar |
Also Read: GK and Current Affairs: Questions with Answers
List of Important & Famous Places in India: GK Topics for Exams
There are several beautiful destinations in India. Here is the list of most famous places in India that you cannot miss out on:
Place | Location |
Ajanta | Aurangabad (Maharashtra) |
Amarnath Cave | Kashmir |
Akbar’s Tomb | Sikanara, Agra |
Amber Palace | Jaipur (Rajasthan) |
Anand Bhawan | Allahabad |
Bhakra Dam | Punjab |
Bibi Da Maqbra | Aurangabad |
Tanjavur, Tanjore | Calcutta |
Black Pagoda | Konark (Orissa) |
Birla Planetarium | Ajanta Caves |
Brihadeeswara Temple | Howrah Bridge |
Brindaban Gardens | Mysore |
Buland Darwaza | Fatehpur Sikri |
Charminar | Hyderabad |
Cheena Kesava Temple | Belur |
Chilka Lake | East Coast of India near Bhubaneshwar |
Dal Lake | Srinagar |
Dilwara Temple | Mt.Abu |
Elephanta Caves | Bombay |
Ellora Caves | Aurangabad |
Gateway of India | Bombay |
Golden Temple | Amritsar |
Gol Gumbaz | Bijapur |
Hanging Gardens | Bombay |
Hawa Mahal (Place of winds) | Jaipur |
Kirti Stambha (Tower of Victory) | Calcutta |
Island Palace | Udaipur |
Itmaad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb | Agra |
Jagannath Temple | Puri |
Jahaz Mahal | Mandu, M.P.(City of Joy) |
Jai Stambha (Tower of Victory) | Chittorgarh |
Jama Masjid | Delhi |
Jantar Mantar | New Delhi |
Jog (Gersoppa) Falls | Karnataka |
Kailasa Temple | Ellora |
Kanyakumari Temple | Kanyakumari |
Khajuraho | M.P. |
Kalinjar Fort | Panna, MP |
Konark | Chittorgarh |
Prince of Wales Museum | Orissa |
Lakshmi Vilas Palace | Baroda |
Lal Bagh Garden | Bangalore |
Lalgarh Palace | Bikaner |
Mahabaleshwar Temple | Ujjain (M.P.) |
Maheshmuri (Trimurty) | Elephanta Caves |
Malabar Hill | Bombay |
Man Mandir Palace | Gwalior Fort |
Marble Rocks | Jabalpur |
Marina Beach | Madras |
Minakshi Temple | Madurai |
Mt. Girnar(Jain Temple) | Junagadh |
Nagin Lake | Srinagar |
Nishat Bagh | Srinagar |
Padmanabha Temple | Trivandrum |
Palitana | Junagadh |
Panch Mahal | Fatehpur Sikri |
Pichola Lake | Udaipur |
Tirupati Temple | Bombay |
Qutab Minar | Delhi |
Raj Ghat | New Delhi |
Rashtrapati Bhawan | New Delhi |
Red Fort | Delhi |
Sanchi Stupa | Sanchi(Bhopal) |
Sahar | Bombay |
Sarnath Temple | Varanasi |
Sidi Sayyid Mosque | Ahmedabad |
Shalimar Bagh | Srinagar |
Shahi Chashma | Srinagar |
Shanti Vana | New Delhi |
Shore Temple | Mahabalipuram |
Somnath Temple | Gujarat |
Statue of Gomateswars | Karnataka |
Statue of Ugra Narasimha | Hampi |
Sunderbans | West Bengal |
Sun Temple | Konark |
Taj Mahal | Agra |
Tripati Temple | Andhra Pradesh |
Tower of Silence | Bombay |
Victoria Memorial | Calcutta |
Victoria Garden | Bombay |
Vijay Ghat | New Delhi |
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FAQs
The Taj Mahal in Agra is India’s No. 1 tourist destination, renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
The best competitive exam varies by field. For civil services, UPSC is esteemed, while JEE is prominent for engineering aspirants, and NEET for medical candidates, each tailored to specific career paths.
Rajasthan, with its vibrant culture, stands out as the state with the best tourist places in India.
India boasts a diverse number of approximately 30,000 tourist places, ranging from iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal to wonders like Kerala’s backwaters.
This was all about the “Famous Places in India: GK Section Questions”. For more such informative blogs, check out our Government Exams Section, or you can learn more about us by visiting our Indian exams page.