The long and rich history of India is full of numerous dynasties that have ruled over various parts of the country. While most monuments of the ancient period have been completely destroyed or lie in ruins, some medieval buildings are in quite good condition, thanks to maintenance by the respective authorities. Many medieval forts and palaces still stand proud all over India. These magnificent buildings are examples of the great achievements of the architects and engineers of that age. The Forts of India remind onlookers of the gruesome past of the country which has seen countless battles over the centuries. The palaces of India offer an insight into the life of the royalty of the country. Most of these palaces have been converted to museums or hotels, while some palaces are still home for the members of the erstwhile royal families.

Forts in Delhi:
Delhi, the capital of India is the location of many forts and palaces that have played crucial roles during various periods of Indian history. The red fort, built by Shahjahan is the most prominent building in the city and has become one of the national symbols. The prime minister addresses the nation on the occasion of the anniversary of Indian independence. The red fort has seen many bloody invasions and massacres over the years, the last one during the 1857 sepoy mutiny. The other important forts in Delhi are Tughlaqabad, Siri fort, Purana Quila and Firuz Shah Kotla.

Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan:
Rajasthan has a large number of forts and palaces that are major tourist destinations in North India. The state was involved in many pitched battles during the medieval period. The Rajputs , collective term for the rulers of the region, were known as brave soldiers who preferred to die than be taken prisoners. They were also great connoisseurs of art and brilliant builders. The most famous forts and palaces in Rajasthan are located in Chittor, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur , Jaisalmir, Amber , and Nahargarh.

Forts and Palaces of Uttar Pradesh:
Uttar Pradesh is famous for the mughul capitals at Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. The Agra fort was the center of Indian politics for a long time from the reign of the Lodis to the mughul emperor Shahjahan, who shifted the capital to Delhi. The fort is one of the most impressive structures in the world and along with the complex in Fatehpur Sikri, is the finest example of mughul palace architecture. There are some other notable forts and palaces in Allahabad , Aligarh and Jaunpur.

Forts and Palaces of Madhya Pradesh:
Madhya Pradesh has many forts from the reigns of the early Islamic rulers of 12th to 15th century, and later Hindu Rajput and Maratha rulers. Some important forts have been built by the 18th century tribal rulers. The important forts are at Gwalior , Mandu, Asirgarh, Chanderi and Deogarh.

Forts and Palaces of Maharashtra:
Maharashtra came into prominence during the reign of the Maratha king Shivaji. The Marathas were in constant conflict with the Mughuls under Aurangzeb. Shivaji built many forts to continue his campaigns against the Mughuls. There are other forts built by the early Turkish sultans of Delhi and the Portuguese. The important forts in Maharashtra are Daulatabad, Sinhagarh, Vijaydurg, Bassein, Janjira, Jaigarh and Raigarh.

There are many forts and beautiful palaces in the other states as well. Tamilnadu, West Bengal , Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh are some states with historically important forts within their territory.

Touristplacesinindia.com offers all inclusive information about Forts and palaces and other tourist places in India.