Vestiges of Indian royalty can be felt in the various forts and palaces speckled across the country. From hill forts in Rajasthan to formidable fortifications in Gwalior, Golconda and Delhi, the history of India stands tall and proud, housed inside these marvellous structures.

Agra Fort is another renowned structure that was built by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD. It is a majestic sandstone structure built as an ode to the magnificence of the Mughal empire. Encompassing within its 2.5-km-long enclosure walls a stunning imperial city, the fortress is shaped like a crescent, its eastern wall flanked by River Yamuna.

Just 11 km outside Jaipur, lies the magnificent Amber Fort (Amer Fort), sitting atop a hill, and rising like a sentinel guarding the city. Commissioned in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I, the fort is a fine blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, and boasts a grand palace, temples and several ornate gates. Built entirely of red sandstone with white marble work, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a picture of opulence and grandeur, set against a stark desert backdrop and rolling hills.

The impregnable Kumbhalgarh Fort, sitting on a high mountain ridge seems like an impression from the past. Soaring above the surrounding rugged mountainscape, at 3,600 ft, the fort can been seen much before one arrives at its foot. With the second-longest wall in the world, about 38 km long, the Kumbhalgarh Fort is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

One of the most glorious symbols of the indomitable Rajput spirit is the Chittorgarh Fort. Set atop a 180-m-high hill and spread over an area of 240 hectare, it presents a formidable sight. 

The piece de resistance of the lively Thar desert is a magnificent structure built from yellow sandstone, called the Jaisalmer Fort. Perched atop the Trikuta Hill (triple peaked hill), this imposing fort seems to rise straight from the desert and its gleaming stone façade gives the impression of it being an extension of the magnificent Thar. The magic of this architectural marvel is best witnessed at sunset when the whole fort seems ablaze as it reflects the light from the setting sun, earning it a spot on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The majestic Gwalior Fort, stretching along a 3-km-long plateau, overlooking the city sprawled way beneath, is an unmissable sight. Dominating Gwalior's skyline, the 8th-century architectural marvel seems to be standing guard at one end of the city. Home to hundreds of kings over the centuries, the palaces, temples and other buildings inside the fort complex have been built over a period of time and show the influences of different dynasties.

Around 11 km from Hyderabad, the impressive 16th century Golconda Fort is one of the most famous forts in India. The capital of the erstwhile Golconda kingdom, the fort was the centre of the Golconda stronghold in the region and was thus built as an impregnable structure. Its former glory and majesty can still be seen in the mighty ramparts and fortifications encircling it. Situated on a 120-m-high hill, it enjoyed a prominent vantage point from where a lookout for the enemy could be kept. Today, its high-rising position gives tourists sweeping views of the surrounding areas, where one can see almost as far as the horizon.