Not just Taj Mahal: Wonderful architectural marvels in India

This is for those who love the Taj Mahal and the architectural wonder that this landmark is. While this white-marble beauty makes for an unforgettable sight, India is home to some great works of architecture. Here, we take a look at some brilliant landmarks that see lakhs of visitors every year.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fatehpur Sikri lies close to the Taj Mahal and is a delight to visit. It served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585 and is very well-preserved for its age. This is also the place where Mughal emperor Akbar started the all-inclusive religion, Din-i Ilahi.

Delhi's Lotus Temple is famous for its distinctive lotus flower-inspired design, and is a symbol of peace and unity. The landmark has 27 free-standing, white marble-clad "petals" that form the lotus shape, with nine doors leading to a central prayer hall. It is a space for people of all faiths to come together. The temple is one of the most-loved works of Iranian-Canadian architect Fariborz Sahba.

Jodhpur's Mehrangarh is perched atop a 400 ft high hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Blue City. It is a masterpiece of Rajputana style, characterized by massive sandstone walls, intricate latticed windows, ornate palaces, and courtyards. Once inside the fort, you can marvel at the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), the very beautiful Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and Phool Mahal (Flower Palace).

Previously known as the Victoria Terminus, this is a blend of Gothic, Vicotorian and Indian architecture in the country. It was designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens and was completed in 1887. While it is a wonder from the outside, there is stunning and intricate stone and woodwork, stained glass windows, and a large central dome on the inside.

This magnificent fort in Jaipur is on a hilltop, and has surprisingly opulent interiors adorned with intricate mirror work, frescoes, and delicate lattice screens. When here, you must visit the Sheesh Mahal, famous for its reflective glass mosaics. This remarkable palace and fort is also an example of Rajput architecture. A number of blockbusters of Indian cinema have also been shot here.

Mysore Palace is one of the many important landmarks in the state of Karnataka. It is a very fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The palace has intricate arches, domes, large open courtyards, and a striking marble façade as well. Visit it on Dussehra, when it gets all the more resplendent.

Qutub is an iconic 5-storey minaret that is famous for its red sandstone and marble construction, intricate carvings, and inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari scripts. The tapering structure soars to a height of 72.5 meters, making it one of the world's tallest brick minarets.

If you still have not fallen for the architectural acumen of ancient India, it's time that you visit the Great Living Chola Temples. These are built in Dravidian style. The temples are adorned with detailed depictions of Hindu deities, celestial beings, and mythological narratives. They also feature spacious mandapas, or pillared halls, for religious ceremonies. These are also of immense cultural significance.

This iconic monument was built between 1906 and 1921 and is a blend of British and Mughal design elements. Its white marble dome is a wonderful sight and its ceilings are nothing less than ornate. The structure is surrounded by lush gardens and reflective pools. It is also home to a large collection of British and Indian artworks, making it a cherished cultural and historical landmark in India.