Last Updated At: 24-Sep-2024
India is a land known for its rich heritage, culture, history, and diversity. It is one of the world's oldest civilizations and was dominated by several dynasties and kingdoms throughout its history. While the cities might now be modern and energetic, they nonetheless reflect hundreds of years of history and culture that now distinguish them from every other city in the world.
Explore India's rich heritage by visiting these top 16 oldest cities: Experience history, culture, and architectural marvels in every corner of this diverse nation
Varanasi is one of the ancient cities of India with a history of beyond 5000 years. It is popularly known as the City of Lights or Kashi or Banaras and is situated on the west bank of the River Ganga in Uttar Pradesh. It is believed that it was Lord Shiva's residence. It's famous for its production of silks and brocades with gold and silver threadwork. The Banarasi paan at Varanasi is very well known.
You should visit Varanasi to explore antique temples dated about 500-1000 years old, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti and shop the renowned Banarasi sarees, carpets, and magnificent woodwork.
Kolkata, or Calcutta as it was called earlier, is known as the historical city in India. It's the capital of West Bengal and is one of the four metropolitan cities of the country. It is currently regarded as the "city of joy" and plays an important part in its economy. The iconic Howrah Bridge connects Kolkata to Howrah. It's one of the world's 52 Shakti Peethas in India. Goddess Kali has been extensively honored, and Durga Pooja is celebrated on a grand level, especially at Kalighath's Kali temple, the most famous in Kolkata.
You should visit Kolkata to eat delicious street food, mouthwatering Bengali sweets, and dessert, see the iconic Howrah Bridge, to see one of Asia's largest flower markets at Mallik Ghat to one of the world's largest used-book markets at College Street, and to witness the auspicious celebration of Durga Pooja.
It is one of the oldest cities in India and is known as the birthplace of Lord Rama; and is believed to be one of the seven most sacred places in India. The Atharva Veda described Ayodhya as "a city built by gods and prosperous like a paradise itself." The city is situated on the banks of the Sarayu River in Uttar Pradesh. The city was founded and is said to be 9000 years old by the Hindu God of Manu. It is one of the most visited sights in the country and is famous for its several sacred temples. Hinduism is not the only religion that thrives here; Jainism, Buddhism, and Islam have also thrived, and their impact can be observed across the city.
You should visit Ayodhya to witness the auspicious Shree Ram Janmabhoomi (birthplace of Lord Rama), to visit the well-known Hanuman Garhi temple characterized by the 70 steep steps in front of the temple complex, and lots more.
Delhi is the capital of India. Indraprastha means 'The City of Indra,' is the historic name of modern Delhi. According to mythology, Delhi was the erstwhile capital of Pandavas, Indraprastha, and has been referenced in Mahabharata, the ancient Hindu epic. In ancient times five dynasties governed Delhi. Therefore it has a rich heritage from the 11th century. Popular structures of historical importance in Delhi include Red Fort, Rajghat, Qutub Minar, and the Tomb of Humayun, which make the tourists aware of the city's rich cultural legacy.
You should visit Delhi to have a crazy shopping experience at famous markets like Sarojini Nagar, Janpath, etc. To enjoy mouthwatering street food, to applaud the beautiful architecture of Akshardham temple, and witness the famous Hanuman temple, historical city in india
Vrindavan is renowned as one of the most important places for Lord Krishna's followers since Lord Krishna is claimed to have been in this town throughout his adolescence. It is located on the banks of the Yamuna river in the Mathura District of Uttar Pradesh. Numerous temples of Lord Krishna and Radha are packed in Vrindavan.
You should visit Vrindavan to witness vibrant celebrations during the Holi and Janmashtami festival, visit Keshav ghat, and admire the grandeur of various beautiful temples like Banke Bihari ISKON and many more.
Dwarka is located in the State of Gujarat. Dwarka's literal meaning is the door-to-door moksha. The city hence has a mystical atmosphere and is considered to be part of the Yatra Char Dham. Dwarka deserves to be on the bucket list for travelers interested in both history and religion. Dwarka is famed not just for its temples and legends but also for being the seat of Adi Shankaracharya, who established four mathas at four different corners of the Nati. The Nageshwara Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas which is located here. In addition to being a spiritual town, calm beaches attract nature enthusiasts from many areas of India.
You should visit Dwarka to immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of various temples like Dwarkadheesh Temple, Rukmini Temple, Badkeshwar Mahadev Temple, etc. To go for a camel ride and visit Badkeshwar Mahadev Temple.
The city of Puri is by the Bay of Bengal, called "Temple Town," as it is well known for the famous Jagannatha Temple that features the largest kitchen on the earth. It is a notable Hind wall, and millions of devotees visit the temple every year. Puri is blessed with lovely and calm oceans. Konark Sun Temple is one of the largest and aristocratic sights in the area surrounding Puri.
You should visit Puri to embrace the spirituality and architecture of temples, enjoy the lip-smacking cuisines of Odisha, Explore Sudarshan Craft Museum and feel refreshed at the serene seashore.
Also Read: Top 10 Mysterious Facts About Puri’s Jagannath Temple Which Will Leave You Hypnotized
Madurai is an old town situated on the banks of the River Vaigai and recognized as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. One of Madurai's numerous beauties is Meenakshi Amman Temple, built in the seventh century. It is noted for its brilliance in architecture. While visiting Madurai, the wonderful indigenous food must not be missed.
You should visit Madurai to witness beautiful temples like Meenakshi Amman Temple, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, etc. To Go on a sightseeing tour to Samanar Hills, visit Mahatma Gandhi Museum, and taste lip-smacking local food, especially Murugan Idli Kadai.
Ujjain, also known as the 'Temple City,' is regularly crowded with Hindu pilgrims. The town has several old and new temples and is a major religious place to visit in India. In any event, Ujjain is not only for the Hindu pilgrims, as various attractions in the city are noteworthy from a tourist standpoint. Ujjain is also the venue of the famous Kumbh Mela on the bank of the Shipra River. The city also contains various historic sites which offer travelers an introduction to its rich history. You should visit Ujjain to seek blessings from temples like Makaleshwar temple, witness the world-famous Kumbh Mela, bathe in the sacred Shipra river, witness the aarti, etc.
Kannauj is passionately conserving its historic heritage, one of the oldest cities in India. Tourists in Uttar Pradesh visit the splendor of several ancient sites. Kannauj has uncovered prehistoric bronze weapons and instruments. Kanya Kubja was the original name, and the new name is a subsidiary of the former. In the small lanes of Kannauj, the aroma of fragrances emanates such an unmissable appeal.
You should visit Kannauj to take a sacred plunge in the River Ganga. To attend the Archeological Museum of government, visit the city's terracotta sculptures, and see the 500 years' old Siddheshwar Temple. Excursions to the famed Vijay Market and the sale of rose water and attar (fragrant oil) are highly recognized in Kannauj. To visit the Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary, one of the country's biggest bird sanctuaries.
The former city of Patna during the time of Maurya was the capital of the Magadha empire. It was known as Pataliputra. Today, on the southern bank of the Ganges, Patna, the capital of Bihar's largest city. There are several holiday places next to several spiritual places in the city.
You should visit Patna to dive into Golghar's architecture, Taste Mahavir Mandir's religious culture, visit the famous Nalanda University, and visit Patna Sahib Gurudwara built on the site of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's birthplace.
Hampi is an old village known for its ancient ruins and stone temples in the south of India. Hampi is presently a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set amid the rugged surroundings of the Bellary area of Karnataka. The stone temples and relics are a reminder of the region's rich history and culture. Hampi was regarded in his glory days as India's richest city. Its wealth and splendor were remarkable nationally as well as internationally, attracting traders from Portugal and Persia. Today the ruins are drawn by numerous visitors, enthusiasts of history and architecture.
You should visit Hampi to Behold Virupaksha Temple's otherworldly beauty, to discover Hampi's historic ruins, to trek to the hills of Matunga and Anjuna, and discover the magnificent Dam of Sitapur
Thanjavur, which was also called Tanjore in the past, became the capital of that city during the reign of the Cholas. In the late 18th century, it became India's main cultural and historical city. The Rice Bowl from South India boasts many paddy harvests, and sugar cane is widely recognized today. It has the former temple of Brihadeneswarar, built by Raja Chola I in the 10th century (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
You should visit Thanjavur to look at Brihadeeswarar Temple's splendor, explore the Mahal Library of Saraswathi, and go to Sivagangai Poonga for an excursion, to shop for the unique artwork of Tanjore, to seek Schwartz Church Blessing, etc.
Also Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In South India
Pushkar is very famous for its unique temples, the seat of Lord Brahma. This picturesque town is a place treasured to the Hindus in the Ajmer region of Rajasthan. The ancient world of the city is extremely charming. Pushkar is known for the Brahma Temple, the only such temple in the country, located across Lake Sarovar. A yearly event that attracts tourists worldwide.The Pushkar Mela. It is also the only city in our country where Lord Brahma's temple is housed. You should visit Pushkar to receive the Lord's blessings in the Temple of Brahma, take a plunge at Lake Pushkar, visit Pushkar Fair, hike to the Temple of Savitri, etc.
In the center of India or Madhya Pradesh Province, the splendid town of Gwalior is situated. Gwalior includes royal residences, historical monuments, and gorgeous temples. The town is famous for the Gwalior fort. You may take a tour of the fortress and learn more about the history of the State. Wildlife enthusiasts might consider going in the town's vicinity on the wild trails of the Madhav National Park.
You should visit Gwalior to indulge in Gwalior Fort's charm, soak in the splendor of the Temple of Sasbahu, fancy the majesty of the Temple of the Sun, and visit Teli ka Mandir and Jai Vilas Palace Museum.
Kollam is a long-standing port city situated on Kerala's Malabar coast. It was originally known as Quilon and crowded with traders, adventurers, and worldwide missionaries. This ancient trading town has been visited even by great explorers, including Marco Polo. For nature enthusiasts, Kollam is a slice of paradise, with charming backwaters and beautiful countryside.
You should visit Kollam during your India tours to dive into the magnificence of Waterfall Palaruvi, to explore the calm backwaters on a boat ride, to see the intriguing Jatayu's Earth Center, and explore some beautiful ancient temples of Kollam like the Mayyanad boasting some of the oldest temples of Kollam.
There are many more ancient cities in India which you should check out. However, the ones mentioned above must be on your bucket list if you are fond of heritage. Adotrip can help you plan your visit to these awe-inspiring ancient cities of India. You can enjoy the best flight, hotel, and tour package deals with us and has a memorable trip to any of these destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ancient Cities in India
Ques 1- Which is the oldest city in India?
Ans 1- Varanasi is the oldest city in India. You can visit this spiritual city, visit ancient temples, and perform pooja at the ghats.
Ques 2- How many cities existed in Ancient India?
Ans 2- More than 1052 cities and settlements were found in Ancient India.
Ques 3- Which is the lost city in India?
Ans 3- Lothal in Gujarat is the lost city in India.
Ques 4- What are the oldest cities in India?
Ans 4-
Certainly! Here's a list of the top 10 oldest cities in India:
Ques 5-
What are some of the most famous historical cities in India?
Ans 5- Certainly! Here's a list of some of the best historical cities in India:
Ques 6-
which is the most ancient town in india?
Ans 6- The most ancient town in India is widely believed to be Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras. Varanasi has a history that spans thousands of years, with evidence of continuous human settlement dating back over 3,000 years. It is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and holds immense cultural, spiritual, and historical significance in India.
--- Published By Arpita Mathur
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