: 10 Hidden Heritage Sites in the Himalayas That You Must Explore #IndiaNEWS #Travel The majestic Himalayas have always been a subject of awe and admiration — be it for their geographical advantages,

10 Hidden Heritage Sites in the Himalayas That You Must Explore #IndiaNEWS #Travel
The majestic Himalayas have always been a subject of awe and admiration — be it for their geographical advantages, their cultures and communities, or, more popularly, as tourist destinations for city dwellers looking to escape their regular lives.

There’s a lot you may have read about satiating your adventurous spirit amid these mountains, but a lesser explored faction remains the mystic heritage sites, each with an alluring story to tell.

Discover ancient ruins, centuries-old village lanes, a glimpse into the lives of royals, and stories buried by the sands of time in these 10 hidden heritage sites that deserve a place on your bucket list.

1. Tabo Caves

A view of Tabo Caves in Spiti valley | Photo credit: @atravellersepisode on Instagram

Situated in the lap of the majestic Spiti Valley, Tabo is a small village surrounded by the Leo Pargil peak on the east and the Manirang mountain ranges on the west.

Among the major attractions of this quaint little village is the 1,000-years-old Tabo Monastery, known for its unique architecture and heritage.

Just above the monastery are the magnificent Tabo caves, which are believed to have served as assembly halls and dwellings for monks during harsh winters. To reach the caves, one needs to climb a flight of steps to the hill, which also houses a small temple and chamber for prayers and rituals.

These man-made caves overlook the verdant Spiti River and are a perfect spot to get a splendid view of the entire village of Tabo.

How to reach: The nearest railway station is the Kalka railway station, located at a distance of 452 km from Tabo. The closest airport is the Kullu airport, at a distance of 280 km from Tabo.

2. Rabdentse, Sikkim

The Three Chortens at Rabdentse, a place of worship of the former royal family of Sikkim. | Photo credit: Anik and Susmita (@travel. with. anismita on Instagram)

Rabdentse, which was the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim between 1670 and 1814, is currently an archaeological site.

Now in ruins, this area is located very close to the Pemayangtse Monastery near Pelling and offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga range.

Once the capital of the Namgyal dynasty, what remains of the ancient city now are just a few “chunky wall stubs�?. These ruins hold the old tales of the dynasty.

One can also see the Three Chortens, which were the place of worship of the former royal family of Sikkim. A stone throne called the Namphogang, which was the throne of the judge during the time of the Chogyal dynasty, still remains in good condition.

How to reach: The nearest railway station is the New Jalpaiguri railway station, which is at a distance of 131 km.