UNESCO World Heritage List (India)
World Heritage Sites are important places of cultural, historical, scientific or other significance designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
There are 44 
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. These include 36 cultural sites (marked in blue), 7 natural sites (marked in green) and 1 mixed-criteria site (marked in red). India has the sixth largest number of sites in the world.
Map of UNESCO World Heritage List (India)
Across multiple states
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- Mountain Railways of India. The Mountain Railways of India: Consists of three different sites spread across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh. They consist of narrow and meter-gauge lines that run through picturesque mountains.
- 1 Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR or Toy Train), New Jalpaiguri–Darjeeling. A 2 feet (610 mm) gauge railway running through the foothills of the eastern Himalayas. The railway covers a distance of 88 kilometres (55 mi) starts at an altitude of 100 metres (330 ft) and ends at 2,200 metres (7,200 ft). The highest elevation is at Ghum (2,258 metres (7,408 ft). It gains altitude via 6 zig-zags and 3 (originally 5) loops. Today, apart from regular diesel engines, there is a steam engine joy ride between Darjeeling and Ghum.
- 2 Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR or Toy Train), Mettupalayam–Ooty. A meter-gauge (1 metre (3.3 ft)) railway through the lush green Nilgiri hills. It has been in operation since 1908. The 46 kilometres (29 mi) long railway starts at 326 metres (1,070 ft) and ends at 2,203 metres (7,228 ft).It follows the rack railway technology.
- 3 Kalka–Shimla Railway, Kalka – Shimla. The narrow gauge 2 feet 6 inches (760 mm) railway covers a distance of 95.6 kilometres (59.4 mi) starting at an altitude of 656 metres (2,152 ft) and ending at 2,075 metres (6,808 ft). It has been in operation since 1903.
- 1 Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR or Toy Train), New Jalpaiguri–Darjeeling. A 2 feet (610 mm) gauge railway running through the foothills of the eastern Himalayas. The railway covers a distance of 88 kilometres (55 mi) starts at an altitude of 100 metres (330 ft) and ends at 2,200 metres (7,200 ft). The highest elevation is at Ghum (2,258 metres (7,408 ft). It gains altitude via 6 zig-zags and 3 (originally 5) loops. Today, apart from regular diesel engines, there is a steam engine joy ride between Darjeeling and Ghum.
- 1 Western Ghats (Sahyadri), (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu). A 1,600 kilometres (990 mi) long mountain range running along the west coast of peninsular India. It covers an area of 160,000 square kilometres (62,000 sq mi). The Western Ghats are one of the oldest mountain regions of the Indian sub-continent. It exhibits geomorphic features of immense importance with unique biophysical and ecological processes. It is home to at least 325 globally threatened flora and fauna. They include several birds, amphibians, reptiles and fish species. Western Ghat is home to several endemic species.
- 2 Maratha Military Landscape, (Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu). The sites consists of 12 forts (11 in Maharashtra and 1 in Tamil Nadu). The forts were built in 17th and 19th centuries and highlighted military planning and fort architecture.
Assam
[edit]- 3 Kaziranga National Park. It is home to the Indian single-horned rhinos (rhinoceros unicornis). Kaziranga also hosts a variety of other mammal and bird species.
- 4 Manas Wildlife Sanctury (Manas National Park). Manas National Park is located on the foothills of the Himalayas and borders the Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan. It is a habitat for many unique and endangered wildlife species such as the golden langur, pygmy hog and hispid hare. The Asian elephant, water buffalo, black panther, sloth bear and sambar deer can also be found here as well as endangered residential and migratory birds
- 16 Moidam (The mound burial system of Ahom dynasty), Sibsagar. For over 600 years (1228 - 1826)the Ahom dynasty have constructed burial mounds, known as moidams. They blend with the natural topography of hills, forest and water bodies. They are located on the foothills of Patkai range in eastern Assam. The Charaideo necropolis has over 90 moidams, housing the remains of kings and other royals of the Ahom dynasty.
Bihar
[edit]- 17 Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda. The archaeological ruins of Nalanada Mahavihara consist of stupas, shrines and viharas (residential and educational buildings). It was part of a Buddhist monastic institution dating from the 3rd century BCE to the 13th century CE.
- 18 Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya. It is the place where Gautama Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment. Along with Lumbini, Sarnath and Kushinagar it is considered as the four holy sites directly related to Buddha. The first temple was built at the sacred site in 3rd century BCE by Ashoka. The present brick built temple dates back to the Gupta period and was probably built during the 5th or 6th century CE.
Chandigarh
[edit]- 19 The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier in Chandigarh. The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement is a World Heritage Site consisting of a selection of 17 building projects in 7 countries (including Chandigarh, India) by the Franco-Swiss architect Le Corbusier. These sites demonstrate how Modern Movement architecture was applied to respond to the needs of society and show the global range of a style and an architect. In Chandigarh it consists of The Capitol Complex (The Complexe du Capitole), following the idea of the Radiant City.
Delhi
[edit]- 20 Humayun's Tomb, South East Delhi. Humayun's Tomb houses the mortal remains of the second Mughal emperor Humayun. It was constructed in 1570 by his first wife. The grand tomb topped with a massive dome stands in the center of a char-bagh styled Mughal garden. There are several other structures in the garden and consists of Isha Khan's tomb & mosque, Arab sarai, Barbar's tomb and many more.
- 21 Qutb Minar and its Monuments, South Delhi. The 13th-century red sandstone tower was built during the slave dynasty. It is a tapering tower rising to a height of 72.5 metres (238 ft). The 5 stories minar has intricate ornamentaion on its outer wall. The complex houses several other structures which include - Alai Darwaza, Quat-ul-Islam Mosque, tomb of Iltuthmis, barbar's tomb, Nila Gambud and few others.
- 22 Red Fort Complex, Central Delhi. The Red Fort is a red sandstone fort (and ruling palace) built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It was the 7th citadel of Delhi and was known as Shahjahanabad. The fort reminded as the seat of Mughal power till the Revolt of 1857. After that came under the British, who used it as a military barracks. Today the fort consists of towering gateways, ornate pavilions and water channels complete with decorative fountains.
Goa
[edit]- 23 Churches and Convents of Goa, Goa. Old Goa, the former capital of colonial Goa, is the home of numerous churches and convents. The UNESCO heritage site consists of 7 churches of 15th and 16th century. They include the Church of Bom Jesus, which houses the tomb of St Francis Xavier. They follow the Manueline, Mannerist and Baroque architecture style.
Gujarat
[edit]- 24 Dholavira: A Harappan City. An archaeological site of Indus Valley Civilisation. The city dates back to 3000 - 1500 BCE and is considered as the 6th largest of the 1000+ Harappan cities discovered till date. Archaeological findings depict Dholavira as an urban settlement and trade centre. It is located in the Kutch region.
- 25 Historic City of Ahmedabad (central zone). The historic walled city of Ahmebabad lies in the central zone fo the city. It was founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in the 15th century. It stands on the eastern bank of the Sabarmati river. The walled city consists of several mosques and tombs along with Hindu and Jain temples.
- 26 Rani-ki-Vav (Queen's Stepwell), Patan. Stepwells are a distinctive form of subterranean water resource and storage systems on the Indian subcontinent. Stepwell consists of a well connected to a reservoir, which is approachable via a flight of stairs. A flight Rani-ki-Vav in Patan is one of the most ornate stepwells of the country. The stepwell is divided into seven levels of stairs with sculptural panels of high artistic quality; more than 500 principle sculptures and over a thousand minor ones combine religious, mythological and secular imagery.
- 27 Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. It is located in Central Gujarat. It is an archaeological, historic and living cultural heritage site consisting of a hill fort. It covers a large timeline starting from the prehistoric (chalcolithic) to the structure dating to the 14th century. The Kalikamata Temple on top of Pavagadh Hill is an active temple and attracts pilgrims from far and wide.
Himachal Pradesh
[edit]- 5 Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area, Central Himachal Pradesh. The national park is located among the mighty peaks of Great Himalayas and lies in central Himachal Pradesh. The altitude of the park ranges from 1.400 metres (4.59 ft) to 6,000 metres (20,000 ft). This difference of altitudes provide for subtropical forests to alpine and glacial flora. It also supports a diversified fauna. Different species of goat, bear, leopard and pheasants can also be found here.
Note: The Kalka - Shimla railway is listed under Mountain Railways of India
Karnataka
[edit]- 28 Group of Monuments at Hampi. Significant historic and architectural interest. The area abounds with large stones used to make statues of Jaina deities. Numerous temples and other sites can be found in and around Hampi. Further excavations are under way.
- 29 Group of Monuments at Pattadakal. an historic centre of Chalukya art and architecture. This has major temples and numerous shrines
- Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas: It consists of two clusters of monuments (in Belur and Halebidu), and the Keshava temple in Somanathapura, dating to the time of the Hoysala Empire, between the 11th and 14th centuries.
Madhya Pradesh
[edit]- 33 Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka. Early traces of human life on the Indian subcontinent have been discovered here. Rock paintings can be seen that are similar to those that have been found in Australia and France.
- 34 Khajuraho Group of Monuments. It is a group of Hindu and Jain temples in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. The temples are noted for their architectural/artistic style and erotic sculptures.
- 35 Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi. Believed to be the oldest stone structure in India. Vidisha (city in Madhya Pradesh) was the ancient capital city of the Malwa. Many Buddhist monuments were later built around this ancient city. The historical Sanchi stupas are very well preserved.
Maharashtra
[edit]- 36 Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad. depict the stories of Buddhism from circa 200 BCE to 650 CE. These caves were discovered by some British Officers during a tiger hunt. These caves were built by Buddhist monks using simple tools. Buddhist monks often taught and performed rituals in the Chaityas and Viharas (ancient seats of learning). There are detailed/beautiful sculptures and paintings depicting stories from Jataka tales.
- 37 Ellora Caves. are an impressive complex of rock shrines that represent the three faiths of Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism and were created during the 5th-13th centuries CE. The caves are northwest of central Aurangabad, a few km from Khuldabad.
- 38 Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus ((formerly Victoria Terminus), also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)), Colba and Fort. the architectural influence of Victorian Italianate Gothic Revival architecture and traditional Mughal architectural style
- 39 Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, Colba and Fort. It represents an urban project through various buildings (cinemas, residential buildings and balconies) of the late 19th century. Mainly these are found near the Oval Maidan area of Mumbai, they represent the Victorian Neo-Gothic style of architecture and Art Deco (sometimes known as Indo-Deco).
- 40 Elephanta Caves. are two groups of sculpted caves (Hindu and Buddhist). Within the caves there are numerous carved panels and shrines. The original stone-cut elephant statue; for which Elephanta Island was named, resides at Jijamata Udyaan in Mumbai.
Odisha
[edit]Rajasthan
[edit]- The Hill Forts of Rajasthan —
- 42 Chittor Fort in Chittorgarh. A massive stone gates with notched parapets and arched reinforced doors (to defend against elephants and cannon). Within the fort a circular road gives access to the gates and numerous monuments (ruined palaces and numerous temples).
- 43 Kumbhalgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh. protected by seven towering gates and within is the Badal Mahal palace. It also had long meandering walls for defence. There are many tales and interesting stories affiliated with this site.
- 44 Ranthambore Fort, Ranthambore. It lies within the Ranthambore National Park, near the town of Sawai Madhopur. Initially called "Ranath Bhawar Garh" (a place of Rajput warriors). The history of Sawai Madhopur centers around the famous Ranthambore Fort.
- 45 Gagron Fort. An example of a hill and water fort. Kali Sindh & Ahu Rivers border the fort on three sides. Gagron Fort (also known as Galkangiri) was built by King Bijaldev (Parmara Empire).
- 46 Gagron Fort. An example of a hill and water fort. Kali Sindh & Ahu Rivers border the fort on three sides. Gagron Fort (also known as Galkangiri) was built by King Bijaldev (Parmara Empire).
- 47 Amber Fort in Jaipur. It is a massive fort-palace complex built in a Hindu-Muslim style dating back to Raja Man Singh and once the royal palace of the Kachwahas. Within the fort is the Sheesh Mahal (with thousands of mirror tiles on the walls and ceilings)..
- 48 Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer. Also known as the “Sonar Quila” or "Sonal Kella" or "Sonar Kila". It displays the subtle hues of the setting sun and desert. It is a 'working fort' as its citizens reside and work within its walls. There are numerous vantage points within the fort that enable great views across the city and desert.
- 42 Chittor Fort in Chittorgarh. A massive stone gates with notched parapets and arched reinforced doors (to defend against elephants and cannon). Within the fort a circular road gives access to the gates and numerous monuments (ruined palaces and numerous temples).
- 49 Jaipur City. It is a magnificent city filled with historical wonders and beauty in the North-western part of India. During the rule of Sawai Ram Singh I, the city was painted pink to welcome HRH Albert Edward, Prince of Wales (who later became King Edward VII, Emperor of India), in 1876. Many of the avenues still remain painted in pink, giving Jaipur a distinctive appearance and the epithet Pink city.
- 50 Jantar Mantar, Jaipur. one of five astronomical observatories build by Maharaja Jai Singh in northern India. This historical observatory has geometric devices (or yantras in Hindi) for measuring time, eclipse prediction, tracking the orbits of stars eyc.. Explanations are posted for these devices and hired guides may provide further explanations.
Sikkim
[edit]- 1 Khangchendzonga National Park, (mixed). It is named after Kangchenjunga, the highest peak of India. It is known for its numerous glaciers (Zemu glacier for example). Snow leopards, musk deer and Himalayan taar have been spotted here.
Tamil Nadu
[edit]- The Great Living Chola Temples — consists of three Hindu temples built in the 11th and 12th centuries under the Chola dynasty. They represent some of the best examples of Dravidian architecture of the Chola period.
- 51 Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur. This temple is dedicated to Shiva. Its pillared cloister contains many lignams and the sanctum sanctorum has a large Shiva lingam and stone Nandi.
- 52 Brihadisvara Temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram. It is dedicated to the Lord Shiva and its location was used to be a medieval Chola capital. This multi-storied temple was once surrounded by a huge fort wall.
- 53 Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram. The Airavatesvara temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva (known as Airavateshvara). Lord Shiva was worshipped here by Airavata (Indra's white elephant). Legend has it that Airavata (suffering a curse from Sage Durvasa) had its colours restored by bathing in the temple's sacred waters.
- 51 Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur. This temple is dedicated to Shiva. Its pillared cloister contains many lignams and the sanctum sanctorum has a large Shiva lingam and stone Nandi.
- 54 Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram. a monument complex near Chennai. The area dates back to the Tamil Pallava dynasty. Mostly carved out of granite, they are among the oldest examples of Dravidian (South Indian) art/architecture.
Note: The Nilgiri Mountain Raiilway (NMR) is listed under Mountain Railways of India
Telangana
[edit]- 55 Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana, Palampet. An ancient Hindu temple built during the 1200s Kakatiya dynasty & featuring ornate carvings & shrines. The main structure is in a reddish sandstone, but the columns round the outside have large brackets of black basalt which is rich in iron, magnesium and silica. These are carved as mythical animals or female dancers or musicians, and are "the masterpieces of Kakatiya art, notable for their delicate carving, sensuous postures and elongated bodies and heads".
Uttar Pradesh
[edit]- 56 Taj Mahal, Agra. It is a white marble mausoleum ordered by emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife (Mumtaz Mahal). Taj Mahal means Crown Palace. It is a fairly well kept tomb and an outstanding example of Indian Muslim architecture. Current work is being considered to combat damage caused by pollution.
- 57 Agra Fort, Agra. Similar to the Red Fort in Delhi, a well preserved palace and defensive complex constructed mostly in red sandstone. Emperor Akbar built this fort (same time as Humayun's Tomb in Delhi). Emperor Shah Jahan made later additions to it.
- 58 Fatehpur Sikri. (City of Victory) — A virtual ghost city near Agra. Built by the Emperor Akbar, it was the capital of the Mughal Empire and later abandoned because local water supplies were lacking and near the tumultuous Rajasthan. It includes one of the largest mosques (Jama Masjid) in India. There are well preserved palaces and courtyards.
- 59 Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), Bharatpur. (natural) — It provides habitat for thousands of birds during the winter season. The sanctuary hosts rare Siberian Cranes, ruddy shelducks, northern shovelers, northern pintails, tufted ducks, shovelers and other indigionous and migratory waterfowl.
Uttarakhand
[edit]- 6 Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Park, (natural). Nanda Devi contains wildlife such as snow leopards, bears, tahrs, deer and monkeys in addition to splendid flowers. The Valley of Flowers is famous for its beautiful alpine flowers. This valley is an Indian national park with beautiful waterfalls, landscapes, meadows of flowers and surrounding forests.
West Bengal
[edit]- 7 Santiniketan. Santiniketan was founded as an ashram by Debendranath Tagore in the second half of the 19th century and then developed into a university town of Visva-Bharati University. It is connected to the life and philosophy of Debendranath's son Rabindranath Tagore, the leading figure of the Bengali Renaissance.
- 8 Sundarbans National Park, (natural). The coastal mangrove forest in the southern part of West Bengal and Bangladesh. It lies on the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta. It is the largest mangrove forest in the world and the only mangrove forest in the world with tigers. Sundarbans (Bangladesh) is a different UNESCO Heritage Site in Bangladesh.
Note: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) is listed under Mountain Railways of India