6 Iconic Indian Stone Monuments

Discover the craftsmanship behind these historical sites

By Google Arts & Culture

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See the stones for yourself

Hop on this virtual tour of India’s most iconic stonework sites, stopping at the Taj Mahal, Hampi, and more...

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Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is known all over the world as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, built in the 17th century CE. When looking at this marble mausoleum, you might notice that it looks the same from all sides, except the one facing River Yamuna. This side was especially embellished as it was the main entrance for the emperor.

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Hampi

This ancient village is home to many religious, civil, and military ruins from the Vijayanagara Empire. Although you can no longer try this yourself, the solid stone pillars built at the Vitthala Temple produce different musical sounds when they are tapped.

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Ajanta Caves

After being rediscovered in 1819, the Ajanta caves have become known as the birthplace of Indian art. Among these 32 Buddhist caves you can find beautiful paintings and intricate stone carvings.

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Chand Baori Stepwell

The Chand Baori is one of the largest stepwells in India, built over a thousand years ago in the Abhaneri village of Rajasthan. To get to the bottom, you would have to follow the narrow stone steps 20 meters into the ground, which have been designed in a precise geometrical pattern.

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Konark Sun Temple

This sun temple was built in the 13th century CE and shows the stunning work of Kalinga architecture. The temple stands on a base with 24 intricately carved wheels, four of which can still be used as sundials today.

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Great Stupa at Sanchi

The Great Stupa is the oldest surviving Buddhist complex, constructed in the 3rd century BCE. Uncover stories about Buddhism at Sanchi, told through the stonework carvings around the structure.

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Explore more stories of Indian stone at Crafted in India.

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