UNESCO World Heritage Sites in INDIA

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in INDIA

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, preservation and protection of cultural and natural heritage around the world . A World Heritage Site is a place that is listed by UNESCO for its special cultural or physical significance, which have been nominated by countries which are signatories to the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, established in 1972.

Cultural heritage consists of monuments (such as architectural works, monumental sculptures, or inscriptions), groups of buildings, and sites (including archaeological sites).

Natural heritage (consisting of physical and biological formations), geological and physiographical formations (including habitats of threatened species of animals and plants), and natural sites which are important from the point of view of science, conservation or natural beauty, are defined as natural heritage. 

India has 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, of which 32 are Cultural Heritage Sites, 7 are Natural Heritage sites and one mixed site.

Cultural Heritage Sites in India

These 32 cultural heritage sites in India represent the country's rich history, cultural diversity, and architectural achievements. They are testimony to the artistic and cultural legacy of India and are significant tourist attractions.

Here is the list of all 32 Cultural Heritage Sites in India:

1. Agra Fort, Agra, Uttar Pradesh-1983
2. Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad, Maharashtra-1983
3. Ellora Caves, Aurangabad, Maharashtra-1983
4. Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh- 1983
5. Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha- 1984
6. Group of Monuments at Hampi, Karnataka- 1986
7. Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh- 1986
8. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya, Bihar- 2002
9. Churches and Convents of Goa- 1986
10. Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh- 1986
11. Great Living Chola Temples, Tamil Nadu- 1987, 2004
12. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu- 1984
13. Group of Monuments at Pattadakal, Karnataka- 1987
14. Hill Forts of Rajasthan, Rajasthan- 2013
15. Elephanta Caves, Mumbai, Maharashtra- 1987
16. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), Mumbai, Maharashtra- 2004
17. Red Fort Complex, Delhi- 2007
18. Humayun's Tomb, Delhi- 1993
19. Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi- 1993
20. Mountain Railways of India- 1999,2005,2008
21. Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, Gujarat- 2014
22. Jantar Mantar, Rajasthan- 2010
23. Historic City of Ahmedabad, Gujarat- 2017
24. Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh- 1986
25. Jaipur City, Rajasthan- 2019
26. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat- 2004
27. Nalanda Mahavihara (Nalanda University), Bihar- 2016
28. Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh- 2003
29. The Architectural Work of Le Corbuster, an outstanding Contribution to Modern Movement.
30. Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, Maharashtra- 2018
31. Padmanabhapuram Palace, Kerala- 2014
32. Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana- 2021

Natural heritage sites in India

Natural heritage sites in India offer a glimpse into the country's natural beauty and biodiversity. They are protected areas that are significant for their ecological, geological, and natural features. India is home to a diverse range of natural landscapes, each with its unique flora, fauna, and geological features. Here are seven of the natural heritage sites in India:

1. Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area, Himachal Pradesh-2014
2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam- 1985
3. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan- 1985
4. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal- 1987
5. Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, Uttarakhand- 1988,2005
6. Western Ghats, multiple states-2012
7. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam.-1985

Visiting these sites is a great way to experience the country's natural wonders and learn about its environmental conservation efforts.

One Mixed Heritage Site in India

There is one mixed heritage site in India that have been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural and natural significance. One of the most prominent mixed heritage sites in India is:

Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim: Located in the northern part of the Indian state of Sikkim, Khangchendzonga National Park is a mixed heritage site that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. The park is known for its spectacular natural beauty, with snow-capped peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is also home to several traditional settlements of the Lepcha community, who have lived in the region for centuries and have a unique cultural heritage. The park is named after Khangchendzonga, the third-highest peak in the world, and is significant for its ecological, cultural, and scenic values.