People are now seeking travel experiences that have a mix of history, education, culture, and tradition of the place they are traveling to. Heritage tourism which is all about exploring places that are rich in history and culture.

Here are some of the popular heritage spots in India:

1. Hampi

Hampi was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to the excellent monolithic sculptures and monuments which make it seem like it’s a location out of an Indiana Jones movie. It houses the ruins of the Vijaynagar Empire. Many tourists prefer cycling around the place. 

Who should visit: Adventure lovers interested in exploring old ruins of India.

Famous For:  Hampi is renowned for the annual Purandara Festival, which is held in January-February to celebrate the birth of Purandar, the medieval poet-composer.

When You Should Visit: During the colder months, from October to March.

Read All you wanted to know about Hampi with album links

2. Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka

These 700 odd rock shelters comprise of a repository of prehistoric art. Located in the foothills of the Vindhya range, they are situated a few kilometers south of Bhopal, in west-central Madhya Pradesh state.

Who Should Visit: Travelers who want to escape city life.

Famous For:  The prehistoric paintings from different eras, which are painted in white and red colors with the occasional use of green and yellow.

When You Should Visit: It’s best to visit Bhimbetka in the early months of winter, October, and November. 

3. Temples of Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is located on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Who Should Visit: Travelers interested in exploring the wonders of architecture

Famous For:  The monuments from the 7th and 8th century are an architectural marvel. The Mahabalipuram Dance Festival held from December to January is also a huge draw. 

When You Should Visit: The ideal time is from November to February.

Albums Shore Temple, 5 Rathas Mahabalipuram

4. Khajuraho

The carvings in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, are some of the some exquisite of their time. Dated back in the early 11th century, these exotic sculptures in the Hindu and Jain temples around them have captured the attention of the world.

Who Should Visit: Travelers interested in exploring art the history of India.

Famous For: The form of passion portrayed in the ancient carvings in these temples has created a lot of noise. Each intricate sculpture looks like it has a life of its own. 

When You Should Visit: Winter season is the right time to visit Khajuraho.

Album Khajuraho Temples

5. Pattadakal

Pattadakal, situated on the banks of the Malaprabha river in Karnataka, shows the architectural prowess of the Chalukya dynasty.

Who Should Visit: Travelers who are interested in the cultural history of India.

Famous For:  Pattadakal plays host to a classical dance festival in January, the Virupaksha Temple Car Festival in March, and the Mallikarjuna Temple Festival March-April.

When You Should Visit: The weather is pleasant from November, when it’s winter, till early April, after which real summer starts. 

Album Pattadakal Temples

6. Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, known for its beautiful Mughal gardens, great gates, and the symbolism of love it stands for.

Who Should Visit: Romantics who want to see a monument dedicated to love.

Famous For:  Emperor Shah Jahan made this wonder out of white marble as a tribute to his wife, Begum Mumtaz.

When You Should Visit: Winter months from October to December are pleasant in Agra.

7. Ajanta, Ellora

Ajanta Ellora caves are situated in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. The architecture of the cave shrines dates back to 2nd century BC.

Who Should Visit: History freaks who want to see the most famous heritage places in the world.

Famous For: The incredible Kailash temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, with life-sized elephant sculptures are the highlight.

When You Should Visit: Winter months from October to December.

Album Ajanta, Kailasa Temple Ellora

Financing Your Heritage Holiday

Travelling can be expensive -- and most people see it as an unnecessary expense. You don’t want to use up your savings for a holiday; there are so many more important emergencies that you need your savings for. But, travelling is actually great for you – it rejuvenates your mind, body and soul!

If you are looking for a solution to satisfy your wanderlust, there’s always the option of taking a travel loan in India. Money Tap is a fintech company that has changed how people borrow. It is India’s first app-based personal line of credit and you can borrow from it in when you need a travel loan in India. 

Author is a financial analyst and true finance geek. He has made it his life's mission to help and educate people on various financial topics. 

This is a sponsored feature.