The Most Beautiful Building in India, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the building you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on May 13, 2024 06:17

India's architectural diversity offers a trove of aesthetic marvels, each telling its unique story through design and heritage. Determining the most beautiful building among them can help highlight lesser-known masterpieces and enhance appreciation of regional architectures. With numerous contenders across various states, each embodying distinct cultural and historical significances, establishing a ranking helps put a spotlight on the country's rich architectural tapestry. By participating in the ranking process, users have the opportunity to influence which structures receive recognition for their beauty and significance. This interactive approach fosters a community of enthusiasts and scholars alike, promoting broader engagement and discussion. Engaging with the rankings also enables individuals to learn more about the architectural gems that dot the Indian landscape, enriching personal knowledge and cultural understanding.

What Is the Most Beautiful Building in India?

1

68
votes
Taj Mahal - Agra

The Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic and beautiful buildings in India. It is a symbol of love and an architectural masterpiece. The white marble mausoleum is adorned with intricate carvings and precious stones, making it a sight to behold.
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. It is an ivory-white marble mausoleum, built entirely by hand, commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Location: Agra, India

Built: 1632-1653

Architect: Ustad Ahmad Lahauri

Purpose: Mausoleum

Material: Ivory-white marble
2

22
votes
Muhammad Mahdi Karim · GFDL 1.2

Mysore Palace - Mysore

Henry Irwin

The Mysore Palace is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The palace is a blend of Hindu, Islamic, and Gothic styles, making it a unique structure. It is also known for its beautiful gardens and lighting at night.
Mysore Palace, also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, is a magnificent royal residence located in the city of Mysore, Karnataka, India. It is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in India and showcases a stunning amalgamation of Indo-Saracenic architectural styles. The palace serves as the official residence of the Wodeyar dynasty, the erstwhile rulers of the Kingdom of Mysore.

Location: Mysore, Karnataka, India

Architect: Henry Irwin

Architecture Style: Indo-Saracenic

Construction Period: 1897-1912

Area: 245,000 square feet
3

6
votes
Chainwit. · CC BY-SA 4.0

Hawa Mahal - Jaipur

Lal Chand Ustad

The Hawa Mahal is a five-story palace made of pink sandstone. Its unique design features 953 small windows that allow air to circulate, giving it its name, the "Palace of Winds." The palace is a beautiful sight to see, especially during the sunset.
Hawa Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of the Winds,' is a magnificent architectural marvel situated in Jaipur, India. It is a five-story palace made of red and pink sandstone, located in the heart of the city. The unique feature of the palace is its intricately designed facade with 953 small windows or jharokhas, which are decorated with latticework. These jharokhas allow the cool breeze to pass through, providing ventilation and earning the palace its name.

Location: Jaipur, India

Architectural Style: Rajput and Mughal fusion

Construction Period: 1799-1804

Height: 50 feet (15 meters)

Number of Stories: 5
4

15
votes
Muhammad Mahdi Karim · GFDL 1.2

Lotus Temple - Delhi

Fariborz Sahba

The Lotus Temple is a Bahá'í House of Worship and is shaped like a lotus flower. It is made of white marble and has 27 petals that are covered in glass. The temple is a peaceful place to visit and is open to people of all religions.
The Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahá'í House of Worship, is a beautifully crafted architectural marvel located in Delhi, India. Its design is that of a lotus flower and it serves as a symbol of peace, purity, and eternity for the Bahá'í faith followers.

Location: Kalkaji, Delhi

Architectural style: Modern Expressionist

Completed: 1986

Height: 40 meters

Diameter: 70 meters
5

11
votes
Gerd Eichmann · CC BY-SA 4.0

City Palace - Udaipur

Maharana Udai Singh II

The City Palace in Udaipur is a stunning example of Rajasthani architecture. The palace complex has many courtyards, gardens, and buildings that showcase the rich culture of Rajasthan. It is also located on the banks of Lake Pichola, making it a picturesque location.
The City Palace in Udaipur is a magnificent palace complex located on the banks of Lake Pichola in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. It is renowned for its stunning blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. The palace offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding Aravalli mountains, making it one of the most iconic landmarks in India.

Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

Architectural Style: Rajasthani and Mughal

Year of Construction: 1559

Current Use: Museum and royal residence

Total Area: 16.43 acres (66,660 square meters)
6

8
votes
Subhrajyoti07 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Victoria Memorial - Kolkata

William Emerson

The Victoria Memorial is a beautiful white marble building that was built in memory of Queen Victoria. It is surrounded by gardens and has a museum inside that showcases the history of India during the British Raj.
The Victoria Memorial is a grand marble structure located in Kolkata, India. It was built in memory of Queen Victoria, the former Empress of India, and serves as a museum and tourist attraction.

Location: Kolkata, West Bengal, India

Architectural Style: Indo-Saracenic Revival

Construction Period: 1906 - 1921

Material Used: White Makrana marble

Height: 184 feet (56 meters)
7

15
votes
Gopikrishna Narla · CC BY-SA 3.0

Charminar - Hyderabad

Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah

The Charminar is a beautiful monument that was built in 1591. It has four minarets that are 56 meters high and is made of granite and limestone. The monument is also surrounded by a bustling market, making it a popular tourist attraction.
Charminar is a majestic monument located in the heart of Hyderabad, Telangana, India. It is recognized as an iconic masterpiece and a symbol of the city. Built in 1591, it stands as a remarkable example of Indo-Islamic architecture and is renowned for its intricate design, elegance, and historical significance.

Location: Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Architectural Style: Indo-Islamic

Construction Year: 1591

Height: 48.7 meters (160 feet)

Number of Minarets: 4
8

6
votes
Golden Temple - Amritsar

The Golden Temple is a beautiful Sikh temple that is covered in gold. It is located in the middle of a large lake and has a peaceful atmosphere. The temple also serves free meals to anyone who visits, regardless of religion.
The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib, is a stunning architectural marvel located in Amritsar, Punjab, India. It is the most sacred Gurdwara and one of the most iconic buildings in India. The temple complex serves as the spiritual and cultural center for the Sikh community.

Location: Amritsar, Punjab, India

Architecture: Mughal and Sikh styles

Golden Exterior: Covered with pure gold plates

Pool: Surrounds the central shrine

Main Entrance: Located on the western side
9

2
votes
Rangan Datta Wiki · CC BY-SA 4.0

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus - Mumbai

Frederick William Stevens

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a beautiful railway station that was built in 1887. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a blend of Victorian Gothic and Indian architecture. The station is also one of the busiest in India, making it a bustling location.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, also known as Victoria Terminus, is a historic railway station located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful buildings in India. The architectural style of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a blend of Victorian Gothic and traditional Indian architecture, making it a unique and captivating structure.

Year of construction: 1887

Architectural style: Victorian Gothic and traditional Indian

Height: 121 feet (37 meters)

Length: 1,676 feet (511 meters)

Number of platforms: 18
10

10
votes
Patrick J. Finn · CC BY-SA 4.0

Sanchi Stupa - Sanchi

The Sanchi Stupa is a beautiful Buddhist monument that dates back to the 3rd century BCE. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many intricate carvings and sculptures that showcase the life of Buddha. The stupa is also located in a peaceful setting, making it a serene location to visit.
The Sanchi Stupa is a magnificent Buddhist monument located in the town of Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is one of the oldest stone structures in India and holds immense religious, historical, and architectural significance. The stupa was originally built in the 3rd century BCE, during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, and has been expanded and reconstructed several times over the centuries.

Location: Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, India

Building Type: Buddhist Stupa

Construction Year: 3rd century BCE

Architectural Style: Mauryan and Post-Mauryan

Material: Stone

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Ranking factors for beautiful building

Architectural Style

The building's architectural design and style contribute significantly to its overall beauty. These styles may include Hindu, Islamic, Mughal, Colonial, or contemporary architecture.
Historical Significance

A building's historical importance and its connection to India's cultural heritage can add to its beauty. These may include forts, palaces, and temples that have witnessed significant historical events or were built by renowned rulers and dynasties.
Intricacy and Craftsmanship

The level of detail, artistic skill, and craftsmanship displayed in the building's carvings, paintings, sculptures, or ornamentation can enhance its beauty.
Materials

The materials used in the structure, such as marble, sandstone, or granite, can contribute to the building's overall aesthetic appeal.
Scale and Proportion

The building's size and proportion, as well as its harmony with the surrounding landscape or cityscape, should be considered when determining its beauty.
Symmetry and Geometry

Beautiful buildings often display symmetrical designs and intricately planned geometric patterns, which can add to their appeal.
Context and Surroundings

The building's setting within a city, cultural landscape, or natural environment can greatly influence its beauty. For example, a beautiful building on a hill overlooking a valley or situated near a river or lake can add to its overall attractiveness.
Function and Use

A building's function or use, such as a religious temple, royal palace, or public institution, may influence its beauty, particularly if it serves an important cultural or historical purpose.
Preservation and Conservation

The current condition of the building and the efforts taken to preserve, restore, and maintain it can impact its overall beauty and significance.
Visitor Experience

The building's impact on visitors, including its popularity as a tourist attraction and the cultural, educational, or spiritual value it provides, can be a factor in determining its beauty.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful building in India. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or building is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1563 views
162 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each building once every 24 hours. The rank of each building is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful building in india

India is a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse architectural styles. From ancient forts and temples to modern skyscrapers, India boasts some of the most beautiful buildings in the world. The country's architectural landscape is a reflection of its rich history and cultural influences, with each building telling a unique story. When it comes to the most beautiful building in India, the options are endless. From the iconic Taj Mahal to the majestic Mysore Palace, there are countless architectural wonders to choose from. Explore the beauty and history behind some of India's most stunning buildings and cast your vote for the most beautiful one on StrawPoll.