Image Credit By : google.com
India is home to one of the most ancient civilizations in the world. Many dynasties and rulers, both from this land and foreign, have ruled this nation for several centuries and have left their marks on this land. While many of these marks are still prominent and known to the masses, a lot of historical symbols and monuments have succumbed to the wear and tear of the times. Archaeologists are trying to rejuvenate these monuments into their prior glory, but our technology precedes the ancient ones. However, there are a few places that are open for tourists and every Indian must visit them.
Here are a few unknown gems of ancient India that you must visit
Indus Valley Excavation site: Lothal, Gujrat
Lothal, which in Gujrati means ‘the mounds of the dead’ was known to be the first-ever port city in the history of Indian civilization. The city was located in the southernmost parts of the Indus Valley Civilization and is said to be a major port of river trade routes. The excavation site revealed that this place holds the world’s oldest artificial port, which was connected to the old course route of the Sabarmati River. This site has also been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Shettihalli Rosary Church: Hassan, Karnataka
Located just half an hour from Bengaluru International Airport, this ‘Floating Church’ is a masterpiece of its own. The Shettihalli Church is an abandoned church situated in the Shettihalli village of Hassan district of Karnataka and is a classic example of Gothic architecture. The church was said to be built in the year 1860 by a French missionary named Abbe J A Dubios. But what makes this church more interesting is that it is submerged in the water. In fact, only one-third part of the church is visible during the monsoon season, the rest is submerged in the water. Despite that, the church gives you some stunning views and an amazing experience. The best time to visit this place is from July to October, when the church is flooded with water, however, you can also visit from December to May, when the water level goes down to see the church in
its full glory.
Chand Baori: Abhaneri, Rajasthan
Rajasthan has always inspired travellers with its majestic and clever architecture. The same goes with Chand Baori, one of the oldest and largest step wells in the world. Chand Baori was built during the 8th and 9th centuries and was named after Raja Chanda of the Nikumbh dynasty. Unlike any other step wells, the steps in the Chand Baori are made into the sides that lead into the water. But what makes this stepwell is its haunted stories. Though not in official records, there is a famous legend related to this place. It is said that this 3500 steps and 13 stories deep stepwell were built in just one night! The locals believe that this was the work of the Djinns (ghosts). Another interesting fact is that no human can use the same steps twice to ascend and
descend the stepwell. Although debatable, many tourists have confirmed such occurrences. So paranormal enthusiasts, make this place a must-see on your list.
Arvalem Caves: Bicholim, Goa
Other than beautiful beaches and culture, Goa is also known for its ancient Portuguese architecture. But the history of the party capital dates way back to the sixth century. Located in the Bicholim town in North Goa, Arvalem Caves, also known as Pandava Caves, are ancient rock-cut caves that speak a lot about ancient and mythological tales. According to the legend, the Pandava brothers sought refuge in these caves during their exile. Four Shivlings which are carved and inscribed in Sanskrit give this claim some weight. However, it is also claimed that these caves were of Buddhist origin, and were carved with a single laterite rock by traveller monks. During excavations done nearby these caves, a large statue of Mahaveer Gautam Buddha, which
dates back to the fourth century was also found. This mystery is what allures the tourists to visit
this place.
Veerabhadra Temple: Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
Veerabhadra Temple in Lepakshi gives us a glimpse of the glorious years of the Vijayanagar Dynasty. Located in the Anantpur district of Andhra Pradesh, this temple was built in 1530 AD by Virupanna Nayaka and Viranna, both governors of the Vijayanagar Empire. The temple is known for the dynasty’s art and sculpture and is also on the tentative list of the World Heritage Committee. But the main attraction of this temple is the Hanging Pillar. Yes, you read it right! Among the 70 stone pillars, there is one pillar that hangs from the ceiling. The distance between this pillar and the floor is such that a thin sheet of paper or cloth can be easily passed from one side to the other. Many tourists flock to this place only to see this marvel.
As of 2022, India has a total of 40 UNESCO world heritage sites. Out of this 32 are cultural sites. But only a few are well-known. There are also places which are not even discovered or maintained properly. These monumental structures are the face of our Indian culture and tradition. As Indians, it is our responsibility to restore and protect our culture and we should take pride in it. Only then our country can stand tall in the eyes of the world.
Author’s bio
Ashwathi Anoopkumar is a student pursuing her Master’s degree in Mass Communication
and Journalism. She has a content writing experience of 1.8 years and has written for
multiple genres.
