THREE HERITAGE PROJECTS IN PUNJAB AND HARYANA UNESCO ASIA-PACIFIC AWARDS 2023

Three heritage projects from Punjab and Haryana, namely the Rambagh Gate & Ramparts in Amritsar, Pipal Haveli in Gurdaspur, and Church of Epiphany in Gurugram, have secured prestigious spots among the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards 2023 for Cultural Heritage Conservation, announced on Thursday December 21st 2023. The Rambagh Gate in Amritsar received the Award of Excellence, the Church of Epiphany in Gurugram, Haryana, earned the Award of Merit and Pipal Haveli in Gurdaspur was accorded Special Recognition for Sustainable Development.

A statement from UNESCO highlighted the resilient urban revitalization achieved at the Rambagh Gate and Ramparts in Punjab, India, which earned the highest honor, the ‘Award of Excellence.’ The project was commended for maintaining the site’s existing uses while promoting inclusivity and broader community access.

UNESCO’S INSIGHTS ABOUT THE WINNING PROJECTS IN PUNJAB AND HARYANA:

1. RAMBAGH GATE & RAMPARTS, AMRITSAR:

Gurmeet Sangha Rai, director of the Cultural Resource Conservation Initiative (CRCI) and an acclaimed conservation specialist leading the efforts at both locations, shared that the Rambagh Gate in Amritsar received the “Award of Excellence,” the highest recognition among all categories, as communicated by UNESCO.

The place is such that boasts about our affluent historic past and our glorious present. Due to the reconstruction of this place, it is attracting tourists on a wider scale. Let us take an initiative to make you all familiar with the grandeur of this place with our short episode on Ram Bagh Gate.

Restored to its former glory, the Rambagh Gate, situated at the convergence of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s 19th-century city wall and Amritsar’s new city, has been adeptly renovated. This three-storied structure now serves the historical gate community as a traditional market, a government school, and a municipal printing press. The restoration involved using traditional building techniques and locally sourced materials like the characteristic Nanakshahi bricks set in lime mortar. Beyond structural enhancements, active public engagement has reinstated pride and collective identity within the community, transforming the historical property into a significant platform for cultural exchange.

Address: Ram Bagh Chowk, Opposite Ram Bagh, Hall Bazar, Police Station, Amritsar, Punjab 143001, India.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Amritsar is well-connected by road. Visitors can take buses or hire taxis from major cities in Punjab and neighboring states.
• By Train: Amritsar Junction is a major railway station with excellent connectivity to various parts of the country.
• By Aeroplane: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar caters to domestic and international flights.

Things to Do | Highlights:

• Explore the intricate architecture of Rambagh Gate and Ramparts.
• Witness the vibrant local culture in the surrounding areas.
• Thee gate has been done using old materials of bricks and lime normally called the Nanakshaahi bricks.
• There is not a touch of cement in the restoration of the old buildings
• All the rich heritage of Punjab like Phulkari, old traditional utensils, bangles, big boxes called Sandooks all are preserved there as a showcase of our heritage.
• Big wooden gates have been preserved in their original shape with minor modifications that reflect the architecture of the time.
• Some of the old boards are preserved to date which tells about the affluent times of the past and its strict rules imposed on the people.
• Old chandeliers have been restored and given a new shape.
• Very nearby to this Gate, there is a generations-old printing press, which was established in 1930 by Britishers. They imported the printing machines from the USA at that time and believe us, those machines are still working in their best conditions to date.

Adjacent Markets

In the close vicinity of Ram Bagh Gate, there are many famous markets. The place is surely called the mini shopping complex where everything is available from vegetables to fruits and pickles to dry-fruits.

• Spice Market – where all kinds of 16 spices are available.
• Pickle Market – an approximate of 40 types of pickles are available. It is more like you name one and we have a pickle of that famous thing available here.
• Dry Fruit Market – a huge place to search and get some dry fruits.
• Vegetable Market – You will find many vendors selling vegetables and earning an income for themselves in this market
• Fruit Market – small and big vendors selling fruits can be seen here.
• A place where other delights like Murabba and Sherbets, other famous things from the city are easily available.

Responsible Tourism Tips:

• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Take your water bottle along with you. Say no to single use plastic bottles.
• Support local artisans and businesses. Buy souvenirs from local shops and stores around the area. ?
• Please follow the rules and regulations of the monument or historical building.
• If you need a guide, please ask the help desk or you can take any guide available at the venue. Tourists are advised to hire approved guides and photographers who exhibit their identity cards.

2. CHURCH OF EPIPHANY, GURGAON:

The Church of Epiphany in Gurgaon is strongly evocative of those local parish churches in rural England that one imagines must be frequented by the kind of people who populate Jane Austen’s drawing room novels.

The bottom-up restoration of the Church of Epiphany in Gurgaon, led by the Church Committee and Parish support, carefully preserved the authenticity and functionality of this historically significant asset. The project integrated a values-based heritage management system, employing non-invasive interventions to combat deterioration due to age and weathering. Local craftspeople were trained in traditional building materials and techniques, vital for sites of this nature. Located in Gurugram’s historic area, the refurbished church stands as a model conservation project expected to catalyse a multiplier effect in the region. ?

Address: The Church of the Epiphany, Officer’s Colony, Civil Lines, Gurugram – 122001

Mobile: +91 70425 00953

Email: [email protected]

How to Reach:

• By Road: Gurgaon is well-connected to Delhi and nearby cities through a network of highways.
• By Train: Gurgaon Railway Station provides convenient rail access.
• By Aeroplane: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is the nearest major airport.

Things to Do | Highlights:

• Attend a religious service or appreciate the serene atmosphere.
• Explore the intricate details of the church's architecture. A walk around the building gently unfolds the aspects of its Colonial-era aesthetics—the tall thin lancet windows, the tiny bell tower, and the gabled roof that slopes down on both sides as harmoniously as a slow-moving sonata.
• The ceiling rests on a frame of timber roof truss—its coffee-coloured wooden beams exuding mysteries of a bygone time. A red carpet leads to the altar, a simple metal cross. The stained-glass panel behind depicts the crucifixion.
• Hindi-language Bibles with red-coloured edges are stacked on a window ledge.
• Switching on one of the low-hanging fans comes as a shock—the initial grating sound rudely violates the church’s restful silence.
• Engage with the local community to understand the history and significance of the Church.

Responsible Tourism Tips:

• Maintain silence and respect the sacredness of the church.
• Avoid disturbing ongoing religious ceremonies.
• Contribute to the upkeep of the surroundings by disposing of waste responsibly.
• Please follow the rules and regulations of the monument or historical building.
• Please don’t touch the monument or the parts of the historical building if you aren’t allowed to touch them.
• Please eat only in designated areas of the historic monument site. Please don’t drop your food on the green pastures. If you do, kindly pick up all the food and collect all the wrappers and dispose of them into the garbage bins provided.

?3. PIPAL HAVELI, GURDASPUR:

Pipal Haveli weaves an enchanting retreat where nature and local heritage unite, etching cherished memories in the heart of serene tranquillity. So, come and embrace the soulful charm of this abode, where each moment becomes an indelible part of your journey.

Nestled within a historic ‘haveli’ or gated precinct, Pipal Haveli represents a contemporary, community-centered, multi-use educational building deeply rooted in sustainable principles. Situated in rural Punjab, it emphasizes ecological and traditional building methods, utilizing locally sourced materials and vernacular architectural language. The project team mapped the villagers’ rich traditions in building and craft production, integrating them into the haveli’s design and functionality.

Pipal Haveli, a heritage rural homestay nestled in the Nawan Pind Sardaran village of Gurdaspur district in Punjab, was honored for its sustainable development. Interestingly, Pipal Haveli belongs to the Sangha family, who diligently restored and conserved their ancestral property. Moreover, the village received the “Best Tourism Village” award from Punjab’s Ministry of Tourism in September of this year.

Serving as a hub for knowledge sharing across generations, Pipal Haveli supports women’s empowerment through initiatives like the BaRi Collective, offering programmes that strengthen women’s livelihoods via environmentally conscious craft practices. This project showcases how the harmonization of nature and culture can be a resilient, transformative force for community enrichment and economic prosperity.

Address: Peepal Haveli, Nawanpind Sardaran, Gurdaspur, Punjab - 143529, Narāinpur, India

How to Reach:

• By Road: Gurdaspur is accessible by well-maintained road networks.
• By Train: Gurdaspur Railway Station connects the town to major cities.
• By Aeroplane: The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar.

Things to Do | Highlights:

• Explore the historic charm of Pipal Haveli's architecture. Unique structure that resembles a rustic Kothi with a Peepal tree
• Discover the cultural nuances of the Gurdaspur region.
• Visit nearby attractions like Dera Baba Nanak and Batala for a holistic experience.
• Homely interiors designed for a local experience, complimented by modern amenities
• Quintessential location that offers a delightful taste of the local culture
• Abundance of rare flowers, infusing the air with their captivating essence
• Breathtaking views of the lush, verdant surroundings
• Lip-smacking spread of Punjabi cuisine, a culinary journey to remember
• Range of indoor and outdoor games
• Lush 2500 sq. ft. lawn for taking a leisurely stroll
• Immersive experiences such as BBQ and bonfire nights
• Spacious terrace for the most stunning views of both sunrise and sunset
• Proximity to local attractions of Punjab

SCRIPT YOUR STAY - WHAT A DAY HERE WOULD LOOK LIKE

Rustic, Familial, and Leisurely - That’s what a day at Peepal Haveli looks like.

Step into the enchanting world of Peepal Haveli, where time itself seems to slow down in reverence to its unique structure, resembling a rustic Kothi from a bygone era. Nestled in a quintessential location, this haven offers a delightful taste of local culture, immersing visitors in the essence of tradition and heritage. As you wander through the Haveli's sprawling grounds, an abundance of rare flowers fills the air with their captivating essence, infusing every breath with a sweet, floral symphony. The views are nothing short of breathtaking, with lush, verdant surroundings that stretch as far as the eye can see, painting a picture of tranquillity and natural beauty.

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to remember, as the abode's kitchen boasts a lip-smacking spread of Punjabi cuisine. Each dish is a masterpiece, tantalizing the taste buds with authentic flavors that leave a lasting impression. For those seeking both relaxation and recreation, Peepal Haveli has it all. Engage in a range of indoor and outdoor games, perfect for bonding with loved ones and making new friends. Take a leisurely stroll along the lush 2500 sq. ft. lawn, where time seems to pause for a moment of serenity. As the sun sets, the magic of this home comes alive with immersive experiences such as BBQ and bonfire nights, where laughter and warmth fill the air, creating memories that linger long after the flames have subsided. And when the night sky unveils its splendour, retreat to the spacious terrace for the most stunning views of both sunrise and sunset, where the world below seems to hold its breath in awe.

ADD-ON SERVICES

• Vegetarian meals can be availed at an additional cost and non-vegetarian meals at an extra cost.
• Barbecue kit can be provided for an extra charge of Rs. 1000 per use.
• A bonfire setup can be arranged for a charge of Rs. 500 per session.
• Other amenities such as the washing machine, iron, and torch can be used by the guests for no extra cost.
• Prices may vary subject to availability and peak season rates.

Responsible Tourism Tips:

• Adhere to preservation guidelines and avoid touching or damaging heritage structures.
• Support local initiatives for heritage conservation.
• Engage with the local community and learn about their cultural practices.
• Please note that photography is prohibited inside the main structure of most monuments and historical buildings.
• Please avoid touching and scratching the walls and surfaces of the monument as these are heritage sites and need special care.
• While visiting some monuments you shall come across animals and birds like squirrels, cats, dogs or monkeys, please do not tease them or feed them.

CONCLUSION

Amritsar is riding high on the tourist scale due to the restoration of various heritage properties here, so Travel Design |Niraalee Shah is coming up with an initiative to rebuild this hidden gem as a famous tourist destination by making our travelers aware of its historical and architectural importance. We are sure that after visiting here, the place is going to be recognized as an important place for world-tourism. If you would like to explore and curate your tailor-made tour in Amritsar, please feel free to connect and engage with Dr Niraalee Shah Website: www.niraaleeshah.com Contact: +91 99671 96174

The UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for 2023 highlight the commitment of Punjab and Haryana to preserving and showcasing their rich heritage. These winning projects not only reflect the historical significance of the region but also serve as beacons of responsible tourism, encouraging visitors to appreciate and contribute to the conservation of these cultural treasures.

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