Beyond the Taj: 6 monuments worth the detour

When it comes to India's monuments, the Taj Mahal often tends to hog the limelight — and rightly so. With its otherworldly beauty and enduring legacy, it's also one of the most photographed monuments in the world. But beyond this white majestic structure, there are other lesser-seen marvels that deserve equal limelight and attention. If you consider taking a detour, here are six monuments that you should visit once in your life, for sure.

The Gol Gumbaz is a 17th-century mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah, Sultan of Bijapur, which features the world's second-largest dome. Whisper at one end of the gallery and it will be heard with perfect clarity on the other side. This Indo-Islamic architecture is complemented with a huge, open design that makes it both stately and enigmatic.

Rani ki Vav (Queen's Stepwell), constructed in the 11th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with exquisite carvings on seven levels of stairs. Contrary to the Taj, which honours romantic love, this monument stands as an act of devotion by a queen to her king. The best time to visit Rani ki Vav is November to February

Forget water tanks — Chand Baori is geometry in motion. This architectural wonder is situated in the sleepy town of Abhaneri and dates back to the 9th century. With more than 3,500 symmetrical steps spread over 13 stories, it's a visual masterpiece that will leave photographers awestruck for sure. Did you know? Scenes from "The Dark Knight Rises" were shot here.

Before India even existed as a country, its ancient humans were painting rocks — and those ancient tales remain intact in Bhimbetka. These shelters, recognized by UNESCO, hold cave paintings from the Stone Age, and they give an unparalleled look into early civilization. HIghlights of this place are animal paintings, hunting scenes, and early family life

Well before Konark's Sun Temple was a tourist destination, Modhera worshipped the sun in grand style in silence. Constructed in 1026 AD, the temple is a masterwork of Chalukya architecture. In contrast to most temples, it was never used as a center of living worship but as an ode to art, time, and space. The temple is oriented in such a manner that the sun's rays enter the sanctum at sunrise during the equinox.

Hidden in Sikkim's misty hills, the Rabdentse Ruins speak of a lost kingdom. The former second capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim (17th-19th century), these ruins command a view of the Kanchenjunga range, providing both history and Himalayan peace. It’s ideas for history buffs looking for tranquility and vistas.