By Arshi Dhar
For SLUB Magazine
India, with its cultural heritage full of rich historical significance, is a country with numerous towns that tell us piecemeal stories about its ancient past. In addition to the famous tourist attractions like Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, there are other lesser-known ancient cities too, that hold immense historical value and therefore deserve attention for their charm and legacy.
1. Orchha, Madhya Pradesh
Orchha, a small peaceful town, is situated on the banks of the Betwa River and was founded in the 16th century by Bundela chieftain Rudra Pratap Singh. This town has palaces, forts, and temples that demonstrate the Majesty of the Bundela dynasty. The Ornate Fort complex contains the grand Jahangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, and Rai Praveen Mahal and thus provides a direct link to the era’s prosperity. The site of the riverside cenotaphs, or chhatris, is the most beautiful setting along the riverbank. This is what makes Orchha the perfect destination for photographers as well as historians.
2. Hampi, Karnataka
This UNESCO World Heritage site was one of the most prosperous and powerful empires in the south of India, the former capital of Vijayanagara, Hampi. About 4,100 hectares of destroyed excavations are available in the city which include a temple, shops, and a huge palace. The important monuments are the Virupaksha Temple, the Vittala Temple with the iconic stone chariot, and the Lotus Mahal.
3. Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
Mandu which is on the slopes of a mountain has an Afghan architectural style that is both impressive and romantic. Once the capital of the Malwa Sultanate, Mandu is home to numerous monuments, including the Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace), which appears to float between two lakes, and the Hindola Mahal (Swing Palace) with its unique sloping walls. The city’s romantic allure is heightened by the legendary love story of Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati, whose tragic romance is immortalized in Mandu’s poetic ruins.
4. Patan, Gujarat
A fortified town, Patan was the capital of Gujarat before Ahmedabad. Among its marvels are architectural projects and stepwells which are interwined. The Rani ki Vav (Queen’s Stepwell), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an excellent example of subterranean architecture that consists of sculptures of gods and goddesses. The step well was used to store water and also as a place where people could come together to socialize and worship. In addition to centuries-old architecture, Patan’s rich textile heritage, particularly its renowned Patola silk sarees, adds to the city’s cultural significance.
5. Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Bhubaneswar is often called the “Temple City of India,” the city has a history that dates back to 2,000 years. About 700 temples along the lines of the Kalinga architectural style can be found here. Among the most important are the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, and Rajarani Temple, all of them have intricate wood carvings and sculptures that are made with loads of effort. The city’s historical significance is showcased by a set of geographical features, including the Dhauli Giri hills, where Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty converted to Buddhism.
Each of these destinations offers unique stories and architectural wonders, often missed by mainstream tourism but equally captivating and significant in the broader narrative of India’s history. These cities, with their unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, are hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the discerning traveler.
