West India is a region heavily influenced by the Maharashtrian culture, with added elements of the Muslim and Christian faiths mixed with the primarily Hindu population. There is also a blend of Portuguese culture in the Goa region, and the state of Gujarate is a diverse mesh of Indian and foreign influences. All of their shared histories and cultures have influenced art, architecture and even entertainment -- Bollywood films being based in the bustling city of Mumbai -- and there is a reverence for the monuments standing testament to West India's past and enduring legacy.
Amer Fort
Perched on a hill above the picturesque town of Amer, also pronounced "Amber," this palace is a premier tourist destination just 7 miles from Jaipur. Built by Raja Singh I in 1592, the sandstone and marble fortress overlooking Maota Lake is famous for combining Hindu and Muslim elements in the architecture and artwork. Visitors are encouraged to explore the pavilions, temples and private palaces within the grounds -- and take the royal elephant ride. Welcoming more than a million people each year, the Palace is open daily and is just a 10-minute walk from the town of Amer.
Ellora Caves
- First built by the Rashtakula Dynasty in the 5th century, Ellora is a World Heritage Site located in the Indian State of Maharashtra. These enormous, elaborately carved caves are stunning examples of Hindu architecture -- cut directly out of the hills and bedrock, and formed into beautiful sculptures, temples and pavilions. Known for their mix of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples, the caves are a prominent feature of the region. Visitors are advised to stay in the nearby town of Aurangabad, where daily tours run from the city to the caves.
- Gateway of India
Overlooking the Arabian Sea in Mumbai, at the tip of Apollo Bunder, this formidable monument was built during British rule, when the city was still called "Bombay." Created to honor King George's and Queen Mary's 1911 visit to Mumbai, the basalt arch is 85 feet high and would have been the first sight visitors arriving by boat would see at the time. Still impressive today, the gateway has been used as a ceremonial entrance to welcome governors and other diplomats, and is often referred to as the Taj Mahal of Mumbai. As the city's biggest tourist attraction, the gateway can be visited at any time of the day and plays host to vendors, musicians and artists. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the climate is less rainy and more temperate.
Laxmi Vilas Palace
- Part of a series of palace complexes known as the Maharaja, Laxmi Vilas is a lavish building of mosaics, courtyards and multi-colored marbles -- and a diverse mix of European, Indian and Islamic influence. Constructed as a private home in 1890 by Maharaja Gaekwad III, it was the largest of its kind in the world, surpassing even Buckingham Palace -- at four times the size. The royal family still uses it as a private home. Visitors can view the palace grounds with permission from the Maharaja's office. Leading sites include Sayajirao's museum and the gorgeous Darbar Hall, with its Venetian floor, stained glass windows and mosaics.
