From mountainous peaks to beautiful beaches, urban centers to rural retreats, India offers a wide array of opportunities for every traveler. The seventh-largest country in the world, its history spans centuries and includes dozens of cultures. While a return trip to this destination is a must in order to see, do and experience all it offers, here are the seven sights to see on your first visit. © Meinzahn | Dreamstime.com

Mahabodhi Temple is the holiest Buddhist site, known as the spot where Buddha attained enlightenment. Many aspects of the intricately designed structure date to the 2nd and 3rd centuries and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, the pipal tree on the grounds is one of the most venerated in the world, said to descend from the tree under which Buddha meditated after his enlightenment. © Tinnaporn Sathapornnanont | Dreamstime.com

If your travel style is more outdoors than cultural and historic, Bandhavgarh National Park is a good fit. One of the country’s most popular parks, it’s a habitat for sloth bears, leopards, white tigers, barking deer, bison and more. However, the Bengal tigers steal the show, as the park has one of the highest densities in the world. © Andrey Gudkov | Dreamstime.com

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ellora Caves were built from the 5th to the 10th century by separate groups of monks, resulting in more than 30 carved places of worship. The caves boast some of the most highly regarded shrines in India, recognized for the monumental work required to create the rock-hewn structures. © Aliaksandr Mazurkevich | Dreamstime.com

Fast-forward through history to 1592, when Amer Fort was built as a fortified palace in Jaipur. Constructed from sandstone and marble, it’s known for its elegant Hindu design. A thoroughly opulent, four-story palace, it also includes a temple dedicated to Shila Devi, the goddess of war. © Yurataranik | Dreamstime.com

The Red Fort in New Delhi was built in 1648 out of striking red sandstone as the residence of Mughal dynasty emperors. Beyond its own historic significance, the architectural attraction also hosts several museums, including the Red Fort Archaeological Museum. © Galina Mikhalishina | Dreamstime.com

A group of temples revered for medieval artwork and erotic sculptures, the Khajuraho Group of Monuments includes approximately 25 surviving temples of the original 85. The temples are covered in highly detailed depictions dedicated to the Hindu, Buddhist and Jain faiths. © Antonella865 | Dreamstime.com

Of course, no first visit to India is complete without a trip to the instantly recognizable Taj Mahal. A testament to the love between Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, the famous mausoleum incorporates Islamic design elements, beautiful stonework and an array of precious stones. © Cbaumg | Dreamstime.com