India is a land of wonders with diverse topography, rich heritage and culture, and exceptional architectural legacy. The historical monuments speak of this rich architectural heritage and the historical tales but India is much more than its seven wonders. We bring to you top 10 natural and man-made wonders of India that everyone must visit at least once in their lifetime.

Sunderban Mangroves, West Bengal

One of the top natural wonder and heritage site in India and world’s largest coastal mangrove forest, Sunderban covers an area of more than 20,000 sq.km and is famous for being home to Bengal tigers. There are over 42 species of mammal living here including wildlife such as tigers, boars, fishing cats, deer, jungle cats among others. Sunderban national park is situated adjacent to the mangrove forest and open for tourists where they can go for boat rides to explore the region. 

Lonar Crater Lake, Maharashtra

Located in Buldhana district of Maharashtra, Lonar Crater Lake is the oldest meteoric crater of the world and the only crater made out of basalt rock. It is a saline acid lake caused by meteor impact on earth and popularly visited by tourists and devotees from every part of the country. Lake is surrounded by numerous temples and temple ruins including the 6th century Daitya Sudan temple famous for its carvings. A 2km trek leads to this mystic green lake reaching Dhara, a stream in the brim of crater which is believed to carry medicinal properties.

Floating Lake, Manipur

Loktak Lake is the only floating lake in the world and gets its name from huge mass vegetation floating over the lake. Extremely popular for birdwatching, you’ll find here more than 50 kinds of rare and endangered bird species along with others like deer, barking deer and Indian python. There are several islands on the lake which is also home to numerous people and a museum dedicated to Indian National Army exhibiting documents, photographs and other materials. 

Majuli Island, Assam

Located on the banks of River Brahmaputra, Majuli Island is the largest river island in the world and home to several endangered species. It is especially famous for its tribal culture, boating and birdwatching as well as regional cuisine. Rice wrapped in leaves and local rice beer are some of the things you must try. Shop for local handlooms and you’ll some of the most unique stuff to take back home as souvenirs. 

Borra Guhalu, Andhra Pradesh

Located in Araku Valley, this is the deepest cave in the country and quite popular amongst Hindu devotees who visit the Shiv temple situated just outside the cave, and also trek inside to witness the Shiva lingam. You’ll find many limestone deposits resembling the Hindu gods and goddesses along with shapes of crocodiles, mushrooms etc. as well as several springs inside the cave. Archaeologists have found evidence of human existence in the cave over 30,000 years ago.

Taj Mahal, Agra

One of the seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal tops the list of architectural wonders in India and stands on the banks of river Yamuna. Both Hollywood and Bollywood have an ongoing love affair with this iconic mausoleum symbolic of love and devotion. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal and is considered to be the jewel of Mughal architecture, attracting over 8 million visitors every year. The Taj Mahal is open for tourists on all days except Friday.

Konark Sun Temple, Odisha

Just 60 km from the capital city Bhubaneswar, Sun Temple is a group of ancient temples widely recognized for its stunning artwork & sculptures. It was built by the King Narasimhadeva-I of the Ganga Dynasty in typical Kalinga form of architecture and is counted amongst the top seven wonders in India. Key attractions are the three statues of Sun God and a sundial with 12 wheels pulled by seven horses depicting the time of the day.

Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Another selected Seven Wonders in India, Khajuraho is famous for its group of Hindu and Jain temples featuring spectacular artwork and erotic sculptures. These were built by the Chandela dynasty in 885 AD and 1050 AD out of which only 25 temples have survived. Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Vishwanath Temple, Nandi Temple and Varaha Temple are some of the major ones that you must visit.

Nalanda, Bihar

Located near the capital city of Patna, Nalanda is one of the oldest universities in the world believed to have attracted students from China, Tibet, Persia and Greece who would travel here to attain education and enhance learning skills. These excavated ruins have been attracting archaeologists, history enthusiasts and travellers alike leading to its inclusion in the list of Seven Wonders of India.

Ajanta Ellora Caves, Aurangabad

A UNESCO world heritage site, Ajanta Ellora caves is one of the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves and represents the early history of the region and its people. The complex features stunning sculptures, paintings, and frescoes and includes Buddhist monasteries as well as Hindu and Jain temples. Monsoon is the best time to visit these caves.