From magnificent, imposing monuments to sites steeped in historical significance, India’s cultural landscape attracts travellers from across the country and world. But while most travellers flock to well-known spots, there are several hidden jewels in India’s diverse tapestry that are worth a visit. Nestled amidst the rich heritage, these unexplored creations offer a spellbinding peak into the enchanting beauty of our country. And there’s no better time than this Republic Day to discover something unique by heading to these lesser-known beauties. 

1. Maluti temples, Jharkhand

Deep in the forests of Jharkhand lies the exceptional temple complex of Maluti, which is unlike any other temple you may have visited in the country. Dating back to the 17th century, this collection of 72 terracotta temples near Shikaripara stands out in the wilderness as a striking piece of architecture. The walls of the temple narrate the story of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Once part of an ancient dynasty, today it is considered amongst the world’s top ten ruins and is the 12th most endangered cultural heritage site worldwide. 

2. Rabdentse, Sikkim

The Rabdentse ruins are the archaeological site where Sikkim’s glorious past comes to life. But what’s better than digging into the culture of this state? Enjoying spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga peak and the cascading river flowing through the hills as you do so. An excellent way to start your day is at the ruins of the Rabdentse Palace and then walk through the dense forest to arrive at Pemayangtse – one of the oldest monasteries in the city. Avid birders can rejoice by spotting rare Himalayan birds in the surrounding woods. Not only is this place a historical treasure, it perfectly showcases Sikkim culture, food and charm. 

3. Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan

The cultural diversity of Rajasthan is best explored through its magnificent forts, and one such architectural wonder is the Kumbalgarh fort in Mewar. Cradled by the Aravali range, this formidable 15th-century structure stands as a testament to the glory of its kings and riches. Start your vacation on a royal note by basking in the picturesque views from the top and relax with a stroll in the palatial gardens. With 366 Jain and Hindu temples in and around campus, there will be plenty to see and capture on your camera. What sets Kumbalgarh apart from the countless other forts in the state is that it also has a wildlife sanctuary with a wide variety of wildlife. 

4. Unakoti, Tripura

Situated at a distance of 178 kilometres from Agartala, Unakoti’s Lost Hill of Faces is a pilgrimage site which is unlike any you’ve ever seen. Rock carvings, murals and natural waterfalls adorn this historical site dating back to the 12th and 16th centuries. Unakoti means ‘less than a crore’ and is home to several magnificent sculptures of gods and goddesses which exude the mystical charm of tribal art. The most venerated amongst them is the Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava, a 30 feet high rock-cut sculpture of Lord Shiva. What accentuates the other-worldly charm of this place are the numerous mythical explanations of its existence, which will become a staple on your visit. 

5. Pattadakal, Karnataka

This UNESCO world heritage site in Karnataka showcases a harmonious display of two architecture styles from the ancient times and is a must-visit for any history buff. This temple town’s timeless beauty and historical relevance resonate with a mystical aura that leaves you awestruck. Virupaksha temple offers a remarkable display of craftsmanship in its many intricate carvings and inscriptions. You’ll need more than a few days to explore the myriad architectural marvels here which are bound to leave a lasting imprint on you. 

Travelling to these sites will not only make your vacation stand apart from the rest but infuse immense pride for India’s vibrant heritage. However, when it comes to appreciating a journey to the unknown, you need a car like MG Gloster which gives you the confidence to drive over any terrain comfortably. Whether your plans take you to the hills or through sand, the seven driving modes in Gloster’s All-Terrain Management System ensures a safe and comfortable ride without any hiccups. 

The Gloster’s first-in-segment Advanced Driver Assistance System enhances safety by including an array of sensors and cameras that bring to life its intuitive features. For instance, the Adaptive Cruise Control automatically alters the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front, while the Blind Spot Detection feature alerts the driver if the car gets too close to another vehicle. These features not only reduce possible mishaps on the road but also make driving a more enjoyable experience. 

Fueling its impressive performance is the Twin Turbo Diesel Engine which powers through long distances with such ease that you’ll already be planning your next holiday on the current one. With unmatched luxury in its seating and over 30 safety features including Driver Fatigue Reminder System, Automatic Vehicle Hold, Traction Control System and more, MG Gloster is the ideal partner for all your escapades.