History woven over thousands of years gives India its multidimensional cultural and religious heritage. Picking up a few from the endless lists of country’s historical treasures is difficult. However, here are some that are truly incredible and must be visited by every history lover at least once in a lifetime.
Mahabalipuram
There is nothing in parallel to India’s rock-cut architecture which is elegantly elaborated at the coastal town of Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) in Tamil Nadu. This ancient place is at short distance from Chennai, which can be visited by hiring a Bangalore to Chennai taxi. This place built between 7th-9th centuries are the sculptured wonders like Shore Temple, Descent of the Ganges (a huge open bas-relief) and Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots) that collectively form a World Heritage Site.
Bhimbetka Rock Shelters
Once inhabited by the Homo sapiens, these caves in the state of Madhya Pradesh are more than 30,000 years old. The geometrical figures, paintings and other illustrations done using colors obtained from mineral rocks, vegetables and animal fat done on the walls of these caves are extremely exciting to explore. No wonder that the place is designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Kumbhalgarh
Known for the world’s second longest wall (after the Great Wall of China), Kumbhalgarh is a grand fort built by the great warrior Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. Located on a hilltop of Aravalli Range in Rajasthan, the fort offers remarkable views of the Thar Desert sand dunes and dense forests in the surroundings. More than 350 Hindu and Jain temples inside the complex enhance its heritage value.
Konark
Imitating Sun God’s chariot, which according to the Hindu Mythology, is pulled by seven horses, Konark’s Sun Temple can be best described as an architectural masterpiece. One can visit surrounding places by using Bookcab car rental services. Resting near the coast of Bay of Bengal in the state of Odisha, it was built in the 13th century using black granite and is a World Heritage Site. Known for beautiful sculptures, the temple hosts the world-famous Konark Dance Festival every year.
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Phuktal Monastery
Clinging to a natural cave like a honeycomb, Phuktal (or Phugtal) Monastery in Zanskar’s Lungnak Valley of Ladakh will leave your speechless at the very first look. It was here that the eminent Buddhist monks, sages and scholars would meditate more than 2,500 years ago. Accessible only by foot on an exhilarating trekking route, the place enjoys amazing silence.
Port Blair
The capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands located amidst the Bay of Bengal; Port Blair is famous for its infamous Cellular Jail where prisoners from the Indian freedom struggle were imprisoned by the British. Designated a National Monument, the prison built in the 19th century earned notoriety during the colonial rule due to inhuman treatment the prisoners had to experience.
Amritsar
The foundation of the holiest Sikh city Amritsar began in the 16th century. Home to the spectacular Golden Temple, the city also boasts of Jallianwala Bagh, the place where hundreds of innocent Indians were massacred by the British. Wagah Border is another historical site that represents the international boundary between India and Pakistan and hosts the famous flag ceremony by the soldiers from both sides every evening.
Visit these places in real and you will find them even more striking than the descriptions above.
