Heritage

North India showcases some of the most marvelous heritage of India. The earliest of the Hindu Kings rose from Rajasthan and built humongous palaces and forts. The Rajputana forts in Rajasthan offer a great opportunity to discover and delve deep into the beginning of the Rajput Empire. This land is known as the birthplace of some of the greatest warriors and princesses, who dedicate themselves to their motherland. The heroism ingrained in the history is easily visible in the traditions, cultures and forms today. Chittorgarh Fort stands tall as a beautiful fort built by the Rajput Rulers. One of the most attractive sight for the tourists, it has several water bodies inside of it because of which it has come to be called the Water Fort. Amber Fort in Jaipur, built by Raja Mann Singh, is a beautiful fortress built on a high hill. It commands a great view of the whole city and offers a gripping glimpse of the blend of Hindu-Rajput architecture. Jaisalmer Fort, commonly known as Sone ka Quila, is a humongous fort made out of sandstone which changes color with sunrise and sunset. Built by Bhati Rajput, it is one of the most marvelous forts that Rajasthan has to offer.

Uttar Pradesh has within it Agra which was the first choice of the Mughals. This is where they built the majestic wonders which continue to mesmerize the world. The symbol of love, Taj Mahal, is a mausoleum built of Makrana marble, which is one of the best that are available. It was built by the 5th Mughal Emperor, Shahjahan, for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. One of the oldest cities of Varanasi houses within it some of the earliest temples, such as Kashi Vishwanath. It also offers ghats at the banks of River Ganges which provide a vision not only into history and heritage but culture as well. Buddhist Heritage Sites can also be found in this region as this is where he started preaching his Dharma and gave his first sermon at Sarnath.

Punjab is the land of brave warriors who ruled this place and left the legacy of captivating monuments and heritage. The rustic beauty of the villages is an easy contrast with the lavish lifestyles of the rich community. Sheesh Mahal of Patiala, built by Maharaja Narendar Singh in 1847, and stands representing the royal legacy of the Punjabi Kings. The name literally meaning a palace of mirror showcases beautiful mirror work inside. Ram Bagh Palace in Amritsar, sprawling across 81 acres of land, is an exquisite garden which is often a part of travel destinations of many who come to Punjab.

Delhi has witnessed several dynasties pass through it, and all of them have left a legacy in form of monuments. The Hindu Kings early on established themselves in the southern part of the city and situated themselves in a fort known as Lal Kot. This is where the first Islamic dynasty established the tallest brick minaret as a victory tower.

The coming of the Mughal further decorated the landscape of the city with beautiful structures such as the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Old Fort. Etc. The British also left their legacy in form of colonial building spread across it. The New Delhi area showcases their contribution to the landscape of Delhi.

Uttarakhand, popularly known as The Land of Gods, has been inhabited by Kols since 2nd century BC; many of the great sages have come from this land to seek peace and calm. The uncharted terrain of Uttarakhand has become a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts. This land is also home to some of the most renowned Sikh and Hindu shrines.

The small town of Dwarahat was once ruled by the Katyuri Kingdom. The name of the place literally means a “way to heaven.” The temples have a prominent influence of the Gurjari School of Art. Tons Valley is a beautiful valley, where a unique blend of culture and tradition lives. The people of the Tons valley consider themselves the descendants of the Pandavas and Kauravas themselves. They worship Kauravas as gods, and even have a temple dedicated to Duryodhan.

Jammu & Kashmir is a fairly distinct area comprised of Hindus and Muslims. Jammu is considered the winter capital, where the majority is Hindu. It is known as the city of temples, many of which came to be due the influence of Hinduism and Shaivism. The Muslim majoritarian area of Kashmir showcases several heritage sites that came to be due to the establishment of the Shah Mir dynasty that started ruling from 1339, and later was taken over by the Mughals in the 16th century. Ladakh region on the other hand majorly Buddhists on the Leh side, and Muslims in the Kargil area. The people of Ladakh trace their ancestry from the land of Tibet, but due to religious influences overtime branched out to Buddhism and Islam.

The literal meaning of Himachal Pradesh is Abode of Snow, which is apt as it is situated on the Himalayan range. The lush greenery on its humongous mountains attracts many adventures and enthusiasts on explorations. Himachala Pradesh has been inhabited since the time of the Indus Valley Civilization by the tribes of Kolis, Halis, Dasa, Dagi, Kinnar, Kirat, Dhaugri, and Khasa. Himachal has seen several changes in power from the regional tribes, Gupta Empire in the Vedic Period, Kingdom of Gorkhas, Rajputs, and the British. Himachal offers a wide range of heritage such as Hadimba Temple in Manali, Key Monastery in Spiti Valley, Jaitak Fort in Nahan and more.

Haryana is another land of Gods, where what dominates is plush fields, hookahs, charpoys, paddy fields, and colorful festivals. Kurukshetra situated in Haryana was once a battle ground for an ancient epic battle which has been documented in the Mahabharat. This land also offers the beautiful lake of Badkal which brings you close to nature. Kingdom of Dreams is another great space where one can be sure of entertainment.