Explore some of the most offbeat parts of India as you travel to these not-so-popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
India is a country full of amazing destinations. And each
one of them is unique in its own way. No wonder, it is home to so many UNESCO
World Heritage Sites. The ones that we all know of are the Taj Mahal, Qutub
Minar, Khajuraho and Kaziranga National Park among others. But there are many
other such recognised sites that we hardly talk about, or even pay attention
to. But each one of them is worth exploring. We have compiled a list of such
Indian destinations for you, and we wish you happy travelling.
Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh's Great Himalayan National Park is not one of those regular wildlife sanctuaries where you go for a safari and wait to see the animals. Situated on the slopes of the Himachali mountains, this park includes several mountains within its bounds, with multiple glaciers, peaks, rivers, and about 375 faunal and an even more diverse floral species. One needs to trek on the slopes of this Park to experience its charms. Some of the rarest species of animals since in the Great Himalayan National Park are blue sheep, snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, and Himalayan Tahr among others.
Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim
The Khangchendzonga National Park is the latest addition to the list of Indian destinations in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Located at the at the heart of the Himalayan range in Sikkim, the Park is home to dozens of lofty mountain peaks, 18 glaciers, lakes, waterfalls and some unique flora and fauna. A favourite among trekkers, this place has a unique biodiversity that includes an interesting mix of wildlife species and the presence of plains, valleys, lakes, glaciers and spectacular, snow-capped mountains covered with ancient forests, including the world's third highest peak, Mount Khangchendzonga. Besides, the National Park is highly regarded by the state's local population because of several mythological stories that are associated with the caves, rivers, lakes, forests and other natural elements in this place.
Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat
Located in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat, the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a place not too many tourists talk about. But once you visit this place, you will come back feeling satisfied about the fact that you have explored an offbeat destination. And trust us, it's totally worth it. The place is believed to be the only unharmed Islamic pre-Mughal city in India. This ancient city is home to several different kinds of heritage monuments--mosques, temples, tombs, gateways, forts, palaces, helical wells and others. What's even more amazing is the fact that a major part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park still remains unexcavated and thus, waiting to be explored.
Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal
The Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal has always been known for being home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. One of the largest wildlife reserves in the country, the Sundarbans is covered mostly by dense Mangrove forests. The best way to explore these forests is to go on houseboats that sail across the delta just as a safari jeep does inside a forest. It is an experience so unique that you would remember for a lifetime. Apart from the endangered tigers, the other species you can see in this forest include the Gangetic dolphin, spotted deer, wild boar and other mammal and amphibian species.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam
Well, if you thought Kaziranga National Park is the only wildlife reserve in Assam that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you were wrong. The Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is also part of the list. The forest gets its name from River Manas, which is also a name derived from Goddess Manasa. The forest is home to some of the most endangered species of animals including Assam roofed turtle, hispid hare, golden langur and pygmy hog among others.
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