published by, Nibandh Vinod
Last Update: April 18, 2023, 06:30 AM IST
The purpose of World Heritage Day is to spread awareness about the importance of cultural heritage. (Images: shutterstock)
World Heritage Day 2023: From Sarkhej Roja in Ahmedabad, Unakoti in Tripura, Pari Mahalin in J&K to Bhimbetka in Madhya Pradesh and Rabdentse ruins in Sikkim, here’s a look at some of India’s lesser-known gems
World Heritage Day 2023: World Heritage Day, which is observed every year on 18 April, aims to spread awareness about the importance of cultural heritage. We all know that ancient monuments are the reflection of our past generations and if observed carefully, we can understand the birth of our diverse culture.
Read also: When is World Heritage Day 2023? Theme, History, Significance and Celebrations
While we know about the most popular heritage sites in India such as the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Ajanta Caves in Aurangabad and the Qutub Minar in Delhi, there are some hidden gems that deserve our attention. On this special occasion, let’s take a look at some unheard gems of India.
Sarkhej Roza – Ahmedabad
Sarkhej Roja in Ahmedabad comprises of a mosque, tomb, palace, tank and pavilion which attract visitors to explore its distinctive architecture. This mausoleum complex is dedicated to the memory of Ahmad Khattu Ganj Bakhsh, the spiritual advisor of Ahmad Shah, a great Sufi saint who stayed here in the last phase of his life. An interesting fact about the sanctum is that the Pesh Imam recited during prayers can be heard till the end of the sanctum.
Unakoti – Tripura
It is a pilgrimage site for the followers of Lord Shiva. Unakoti means less than one crore and it is believed that such number of rock carvings are available at this site. If you are a lover of amazing rock carvings, murals and scintillating waterfalls, then this place should not be missed by you. It is believed that the rock-cut images at the site are images of gods and goddesses who were cursed to turn to stone by Lord Shiva.
Pari Mahal – Jammu and Kashmir
Seven terraced gardens make up Pari Mahal. It is also known as the Angel’s Abode, located southwest of Dal Lake and atop the Zabarwan mountain range, overlooking Srinagar. Pari Mahal, which was built by Mughal prince Dara Shikoh in the mid-1600s, was later used to teach astrology and astronomy. Pari Mahal attracts visitors for its mystical sightseeing options and places to visit. If nothing else, you can just roam around and breathe the fresh air here.
Bhimbetka: Ancient Art Galleries – Madhya Pradesh
Widely celebrated as the earliest evidence of art in South Asia, the Bhimbetka cave paintings are drawn in a dull red colour, with stick figures carrying spears and bows and arrows. These stick figures, which are said to be rock shelters of Bhimbetka, are heard of horned creatures. This ancient cave is situated in Madhya Pradesh.
Rabdentse Ruins
Rabdentse ruins located close to Pemayangtse Monastery in West Sikkim district is famous for its ancient ruins. From 1670 to 1814, this place served as the second capital of the ancient kingdom of Sikkim. The place can be reached through a 2 km climb from Pemayangtse Monastery on the way to Pelling.
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