Notably, India is one such country that is known for its religious significance. Also, it is also known as ‘The land of gods’ which makes it even more spiritual than any other country in the world.
However, being in India, we have known very little about a number of world heritage sites in our country. Thus, here are some splendid heritage sites that will provide you with inner peace. Let’s have a look at them. There are no double thoughts about the fact that India has a rich cultural heritage.
But, many do not know that our country owns some of the best and the most beautiful World Heritage Sites.
So, the General Convention states these sites as heritage sites. Furthermore, this was done with the help of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation).
20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India
India is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase its rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Here are some of the notable World Heritage Sites in India:
Cultural World Heritage Sites
1. Taj Mahal, Agra (1983)
A masterpiece of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
2. Qutub Minar and its Monuments, Delhi (1993)
Qutub Minar is the world’s tallest brick minaret, built in the early 13th century. The complex also includes several other historic monuments.
3. Red Fort Complex, Delhi (2007)
The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is a massive fortress built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. It served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years.
4. Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh (1986)
Founded by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, Fatehpur Sikri is a well-preserved ghost city that served as the Mughal capital for 14 years.
5. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra (1983)
These cave complexes contain Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples and monasteries, dating back to the 2nd century BCE to the 10th century CE.
6. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha (1984)
Built in the 13th century, the Konark Sun Temple is dedicated to the Hindu sun god Surya. It is known for its intricate stone carvings and architectural brilliance.
7. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu (1984)
This site includes several ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures, notably the Shore Temple, which dates back to the 7th century.
12. Mountain Railways of India (1999, 2005, 2008)
This site comprises three separate railway lines: the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and the Kalka-Shimla Railway. These railways are notable for their engineering and scenic beauty.
13. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), Mumbai (2004)
A historic railway station in Mumbai, it is renowned for its Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and is one of the busiest railway stations in India.
14. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi (1993)
Built in the 16th century, Humayun’s Tomb is an early example of Mughal architecture and served as the inspiration for the Taj Mahal.
15. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat (2004)
This park includes the remains of a historical city and various monuments, including mosques, temples, fortifications, and palaces, dating back to the 8th to 14th centuries.
16. Rani ki Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell), Gujarat (2014)
Rani ki Vav is an intricately designed stepwell that dates back to the 11th century. It is known for its stunning architecture and sculptures depicting Hindu deities.
17. Historic City of Ahmedabad, Gujarat (2017)
This site encompasses the historic city of Ahmedabad, known for its rich architectural heritage, including intricately carved wooden havelis and the city’s unique Pols (traditional housing clusters).
Natural World Heritage Sites
8. Kaziranga National Park, Assam (1985)
Known for its significant population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a crucial habitat for various other species.
9. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan (1985)
Formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo is a haven for migratory birds and is recognized as one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the world.
10. Western Ghats (2012)
The Western Ghats are a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India. They are recognized for their exceptional biodiversity and ecological significance.
18. Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh (2014)
This national park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard and the western tragopan.
19. Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, Uttarakhand (1988, 2005)
Nanda Devi National Park, along with the Valley of Flowers, is renowned for its stunning alpine meadows, diverse flora, and endangered wildlife.
Mixed (Cultural and Natural) World Heritage Site
20. Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh (1986)
The Khajuraho Group of Monuments consists of intricately carved temples that showcase exquisite artwork and sculptures, dating back to the Chandela dynasty in the 10th to 12th centuries.
11. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam (1985)
Manas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and the rare golden langur.
These UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India reflect the country’s rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage, contributing to its global significance and attracting visitors from across the globe.
Last but not least, have you visited these world heritage sites in India? If yes, then do let us know about your experiences in the comment section below.
