UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India are exceptional places recognised for their cultural, natural, or mixed significance. They showcase India’s contributions to human civilisation and significantly impact tourism, education, and local economies. These sites are crucial in preserving and promoting the identity and heritage of India on the world stage. Notably, India has the sixth largest number of Heritage Sites globally recognised by UNESCO or the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation.
Types of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India
India boasts a diverse array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. These Sites include ancient temples, historical cities, intricate stepwells, lush wildlife sanctuaries, and revered mountain ranges, offering a glimpse into India’s multifaceted cultural and ecological tapestry. As of September 2024, there are forty-three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Of these, thirty-five are cultural, seven are natural, and one is of mixed heritage. Let’s go through the list of 43 heritage sites and the latest nominations for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list for 2024-25. Also Read: Countries that give visa-free access to Indians
Latest Nominations in 2024-25
- Gingee fort – Villupuram, Tamil Nadu
- Salher fort – Nashik district, Maharashtra
- Charaideo Maidam – Bokopukhuri Habi, Assam
- Panhala fort – Kolhapur, Maharashtra
- Shivneri fort – Kusur, Maharashtra
- Lohagad fort – Pune, Maharashtra
- Khanderi fort – Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Raigad fort – Raigad, Maharashtra
- Pratapgad fort – Satara, Maharshtra
- Suvarnadurg fort – Dapoli, Maharashtra
- Panhala fort – Kolhapur, Maharashtra
- Vijaydurg fort – Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
- Sindhudurg fort – Konkan region, Maharashtra
Cultural Heritage Sites in India
Cultural Heritage Sites in India are living testimonies of the country’s deep-rooted history and diverse cultural tapestry. These places are architectural marvels and artistic treasures, preserving the heritage of India for generations to come. We have compiled a list of the Cultural Heritage sites in India below, with data sourced from UNESCO.Also Read: Taj Mahal is the most-searched-for UNESCO World Heritage Site
| 35 Cultural Heritage Sites in India | Year of Entry | State |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Agra Fort | 1983 | Uttar Pradesh |
| #2 Ajanta Caves | 1983 | Maharashtra |
| #3 Ellora Caves | 1983 | Maharashtra |
| #4 Taj Mahal | 1983 | Uttar Pradesh |
| #5 Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram | 1984 | Tamil Nadu |
| #6 Sun Temple, Konark | 1984 | Odisha |
| #7 Churches and Convents of Goa | 1984 | Goa |
| #8 Fatehpur Sikri | 1986 | Uttar Pradesh |
| #9 Group of Monuments at Hampi | 1986 | Karnataka |
| #10 Khajuraho Group of Monuments | 1986 | Madhya Pradesh |
| #11 Elephanta Caves | 1987 | Maharashtra |
| #12 Great Living Chola Temples | 1987 | Tamil Nadu |
| #13 Group of Monuments at Pattadakal | 1987 | Karnataka |
| #14 Santiniketan | 2023 | West Bengal |
| #15 Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi | 1989 | Madhya Pradesh |
| #16 Mountain Railways of India | 1999 | West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh |
| #17 Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi | 1993 | Delhi |
| #18 Qutub Minar and Monuments, Delhi | 1993 | Delhi |
| #19 Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya | 2002 | Bihar |
| #20 Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka | 2003 | Madhya Pradesh |
| #21 Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park | 2004 | Gujarat |
| #22 Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus | 2004 | Maharashtra |
| #23 Red Fort Complex | 2007 | Delhi |
| #24 Jantar Mantar | 2010 | Jaipur |
| #25 Hill Forts of Rajasthan | 2013 | Rajasthan |
| #26 Rani Ki Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell) | 2014 | Gujarat |
| #27 Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavira at Nalanda | 2016 | Bihar |
| #28 The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement | 2016 | Chandigarh |
| #29 Historic City of Ahmedabad | 2017 | Gujarat |
| #30 Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai | 2018 | Maharashtra |
| #31 Jaipur City | 2019 | Rajasthan |
| #32 Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple | 2021 | Telangana |
| #33 Dholavira, a Harappan City | 2021 | Gujarat |
| #34 Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala | 2023 | Karnataka |
| #34 Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty | 2024 | Assam |
Now, time to learn some critical facts about the most popular of these Cultural Heritage Sites in India.Also Read: Yellowstone, Kilimanjaro glaciers among those set to vanish by 2050: UNESCO
Taj Mahal – A Symbol of Love
The Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, is an ivory-white marble mausoleum in Agra. It is known for its intricate Mughal architecture and beautiful gardens, making it one of India’s most visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 
Taj Mahal; Image: Shutterstock
Qutub Minar – Ancient Marvel of Architecture
Located in Delhi, the Qutub Minar complex is home to a 73-metre-high minaret built in the 12th century. It is a magnificent example of Indo-Islamic architecture. Notably, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the ‘Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar‘ (MGMD) project as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav on July 27 at Qutub Minar, which involved a grand projection mapping show. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Culture and in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, aims to culturally map India’s 6.5 lakh villages across 29 states and 7 union territories on a virtual platform, connecting people with the diverse cultural heritage of the nation. Also Read: Top 10 busiest airports in India
Qutub Minar; Image: Shutterstock
Jaipur City – A Planned Urban Treasure
The historic walled city of Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Its nickname originates from the terracotta-pink hue that adorns its historic buildings. 
Jaipur City; Image: Shutterstock
Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala: Ode to Indian Cultural Heritage
The latest addition to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, the three temples were constructed back in the 12th and 13th centuries. They represent Dravidian and Bhumija style influences, as well as the Nagara traditions.
Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala; Image: Shutterstock
Natural Heritage Sites in India
Natural Heritage Sites in India, like India’s Sundarbans, Western Ghats, and Kaziranga National Park, are vital ecosystems recognised by UNESCO. These sites conserve unique biodiversity, landscapes, and habitats. They are a global asset, contributing to scientific research and environmental balance. Here’s a list of the Natural Heritage sites in India, sourced from UNESCO.
| Natural Heritage Site in India | Year of Entry |
State |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Sundarbans National Park | 1987 | West Bengal |
| #2 Western Ghats | 2012 | Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, and Gujarat |
| #3 Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks | 1988 | Uttarakhand |
| #4 Manas Wildlife Sanctuary | 1985 | Assam |
| #5 Great Himalayan National Park | 2014 | Himachal Pradesh |
| #6 Keoladeo National Park | 1985 | Rajasthan |
| #7 Kaziranga National Park | 1985 | Assam |
Let’s learn key facts about some of these Natural Heritage sites in India next.
Sundarbans – The Largest Mangrove Forest
Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove ecosystem, became a Natural Heritage site in India in 1987 due to its ecological significance. Its unique Royal Bengal Tiger habitat boasts diverse flora and fauna, including saltwater crocodiles and Indian pythons.
Sundarbans; Image: Shutterstock
Western Ghats – Biodiversity Hotspot
The Western Ghats are a 1600 km-long mountain range along India’s west coast. Known as a biodiversity hotspot, they shelter a rich tapestry of unique plant and animal species.
Kaziranga National Park – Home to the Indian RhinoKaziranga National Park is a haven for the Indian rhinoceros. This park in Assam shelters the world’s largest population of these magnificent creatures. Beyond rhinos, it’s a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, making it a biodiversity hotspot in India.
Western Ghats; Image: Shutterstock
Mixed Heritage Sites in India
Mixed Heritage Sites in India exhibit both cultural and natural significance. While India is home to one Mixed Heritage Site so far, many other sites are on the tentative list to be considered for nomination. These include the Cold deserts of Ladakh and the Keibul Lamjao conservation area of Manipur. The one Mixed Heritage Site in India listed by UNESCO:
| Mixed Heritage Site in India | Year of Entry |
State |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Khangchendzonga National Park | 2016 | Sikkim |
Time to learn more about India’s only Mixed Heritage Site.
Khangchendzonga National Park
Khangchendzonga National Park, located in Sikkim, is known for its breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. It encompasses pristine forests, glacial lakes, and the third-highest peak in the world, Mount Khangchendzonga. This park is a sanctuary for rare wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas.
Khangchendzonga National Park; Image: Shutterstock
Nomination Process for UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The process of nominating a site for UNESCO World Heritage status involves thorough documentation, evaluation, and international cooperation to ensure that a site meets the criteria set by UNESCO.To be included on the World Heritage List, sites must be of outstanding universal value and meet at least one out of ten selection criteria.Some of the selection criteria for UNESCO World Heritage Site selection include:
- Represent a masterpiece of human creative genius
- Exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design
- Bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilisation which is living or which has disappeared
The exhaustive list can be found here. Each nominated site must demonstrate how it fulfils these criteria to be considered for inclusion.
Preservation and Conservation Efforts
Preserving and conserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India is a collective effort.Here are some ways these Sites are protected for years to come:
- Initiatives to Safeguard and Preserve Heritage Sites
- Government agencies, local communities, and international organisations work together to protect UNESCO World Heritage Sites through habitat restoration, anti-poaching efforts, and sustainable tourism practices.
Role of Local Communities and Stakeholders
Local communities often play a crucial role in preserving UNESCO World Heritage sites in India. They contribute to safeguarding these sites through education, awareness, and sustainable development projects that benefit both the environment and the people.
The Significance of Responsible Tourism
Responsible tourism is essential for preserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India and worldwide. It promotes sustainable practices that minimise the environmental and cultural impact of tourism, ensuring that these precious sites can be enjoyed by future generations while safeguarding their integrity and beauty.
FAQs
1. Which state in India has highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites?Currently, Maharashtra has total six heritage sites, out of which five are cultural sites and one is natural heritage site.