World Heritage Day 2023: Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India To Experience Rich Indian Heritage & Culture

Heritage sites are places that have significant cultural, historical, or natural value and are therefore protected and preserved for future generations. These sites can include buildings, monuments, natural landscapes, and archaeological sites that represent important aspects of human history or culture.

Heritage sites are often designated by national or international organisations, such as UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), which maintains a list of World Heritage Sites that are deemed to be of outstanding universal value.

On this Day people also Wish each other to show their appreciation for the cultural sites, landmarks, and monuments that represent our shared human history and reflect the diversity of our world. By wishing for the preservation of these sites, we acknowledge their value and the need to protect them for future generations.

Examples of heritage sites include the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the Taj Mahal in India, the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum in Rome, and Machu Picchu in Peru. In addition to these well-known sites, there are thousands of other heritage sites around the world that are equally important and deserving of protection and preservation.

Tuesday, April 18 is celebrated as World Heritage Day or the International Day for Monuments and Sites around the world. The theme for World Heritage Day 2023 is "Heritage Changes". Approved by UNESCO, the day is dedicated to recognising sites of historical importance, raising awareness about them, and an opportunity to remind each one of us to restore and preserve those valuable structures.

Nevertheless, beating the blues, we here bring you the list of 40 Heritage Sites in India designated by UNESCO that includes 32 Cultural World Heritage Sites, 7 Natural World Heritage Sites, one is a Mixed World Heritage Site that you should consider visiting in your next travel plan. Till it happens, read out where you would like to go when the situation improves in the country. From architecturally rich monuments to a lush green national forest or to the biodiversity-rich mountain areas, there are plenty to choose from for each one of you:

UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites In India

1. Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh in 1983

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

The Taj Mahal located in Uttar Pradesh, Agra in India, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. It is considered one of the most iconic and beautiful examples of Mughal architecture and a jewel of Muslim art in India. The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, and it is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognises its importance as a cultural and historical treasure that should be preserved for future generations.

2. Ellora Caves, Maharashtra in 1983

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

The Ellora Caves located in Maharashtra, India were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983 are a significant cultural and historical site in India, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The site consists of 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries representing the three major religions of India: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism dating back to 600 AD to 1000 AD, also gives life to the civilisation of ancient India. The caves were excavated between the 6th and 10th centuries CE and showcase exquisite architecture and sculpture. The most notable cave is the Kailasa Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the largest monolithic structures in the world.

3. Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra in 1983

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: BCCL

The Ajanta Caves are a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments located in Maharashtra, India. They were built between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century A.D., and are renowned for their exquisite murals and sculptures depicting the life of the Buddha and other Buddhist figures. The caves were abandoned in the 7th century and fell into obscurity until their rediscovery in the 19th century. They are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. The Ajanta Caves was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

4. Agra Fort, Uttar Pradesh in 1983

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

Agra Fort is a historical fort in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built in the 16th century by the Mughal emperor Akbar and was later expanded by his grandson Shah Jahan. The fort is made of red sandstone and contains numerous palaces, mosques, and other buildings of historical significance. One of the most famous buildings in the fort is the Diwan-i-Khas, a hall where the Mughal emperor would meet with important dignitaries. The Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. The Agra Fort was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

5. Sun Temple, Konark Orissa in 1984

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

The Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, India, is a 13th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu sun god, Surya. The temple was built in the shape of a chariot with 12 pairs of carved wheels pulled by seven horses, and is adorned with intricate carvings depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology and daily life. The temple is also known for its precise alignment with the sun, with the first rays of the sun falling on the main entrance every day. The Sun Temple was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

6. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu in 1984

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

The Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram is a collection of ancient Hindu temples and rock-cut monuments located in Tamil Nadu, India. They were built between the 7th and 9th centuries by the Pallava dynasty and are known for their intricate carvings and sculptures. The most famous monument in the group is the Shore Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is built in the Dravidian architectural style. The Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

7. Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh in 1986

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: UNESCO

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a collection of Hindu and Jain temples located in Madhya Pradesh, India. They were built between the 9th and 12th centuries by the Chandela dynasty and are renowned for their intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various aspects of Indian life and mythology. The temples are also known for their erotic sculptures, which are believed to represent the celebration of the human body and the union of male and female energies. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

8. Group of Monuments at Hampi, Karnataka in 1986

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

The Group of Monuments at Hampi is a collection of ancient ruins and temples located in Karnataka, India. They were built during the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th to 16th centuries and include temples, palaces, and other buildings. The most famous monument in the group is the Virupaksha Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The monuments are known for their impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and historical significance. The Group of Monuments at Hampi was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

9. Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh in 1986

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Thinkstock

Fatehpur Sikri also called the "City of Victory" is a historic city located in Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for a short period. The city is known for its impressive architecture, which blends Indian and Islamic styles, and its historical significance. The most famous monuments in Fatehpur Sikri include the Buland Darwaza, the Jama Masjid, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti. Fatehpur Sikri was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

10. Churches and Convents of Goa, in 1986

The Churches and Convents of Goa are a group of Catholic monuments located in the state of Goa, India. They were built by the Portuguese during their colonial rule in India in the 16th and 17th centuries. The monuments include churches, convents, and other buildings, many of which are decorated with intricate Baroque and Renaissance-style art and architecture. The most famous monuments in the group include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Se Cathedral, and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. The Churches and Convents of Goa was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

11. Group of Monuments at Pattadakal, Karnataka in 1987

The Group of Monuments at Pattadakal is a collection of ancient Hindu and Jain temples located in Karnataka, India. They were built in the 7th and 8th centuries during the Chalukya dynasty and are known for their impressive architecture and intricate carvings. The most famous monuments in the group include the Virupaksha Temple, the Sangameshwara Temple, and the Mallikarjuna Temple. The Group of Monuments at Pattadakal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

12. Great Living Chola Temples, Tamil Nadu in 1987

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

The Great Living Chola Temples are a group of Hindu temples located in Tamil Nadu, India. They were built by the Chola dynasty in the 11th and 12th centuries CE and are renowned for their impressive architecture and intricate carvings. The most famous temples in the group include the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, and the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple. The Great Living Chola Temples was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

13. Elephanta Caves, Maharashtra in 1987

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: BCCL

The 'City of Caves,' on an island in the Sea of ??Oman near Bombay, contains a collection of rock art linked to the cult of Shiva. At Elephanta Caves, Indian art has found one of its most perfect expressions, particularly the huge high reliefs in the main cave. The Elephanta Caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

14. Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh in 1989

Located about 40 km from Bhopal, the Sanchi site comprises a group of Buddhist monuments, all in different states of preservation, most of which date from the 2nd and 1st. centuries before Christ. The Buddhist Monuments were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.

15. Qutub Minar and its Monuments, Delhi Delhi in 1993

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

One of the famous buildings in Delhi, Qutub Minar and surrounding monuments were built in early 1311. The tower stands at 72.5 m in height and is a masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art. The Qutub Minar and its Monuments was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

16. Humayun¡¯s Tomb, Delhi in 1993

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

Featuring a mix of red sandstone and white marble, the impressive onion-domed main complex of Humayun's Tomb is believed to have inspired the architecture of the Taj Mahal, though its graceful gardens, filled with symmetrical fountains, are equally notable for their precise design. Humayun¡¯s Tomb was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

17. Mountain Railways of India, Tamil Nadu in 1999

This site includes three railways. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (1881), the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (1908), and the Kalka Shimla Railway (1903). The construction of these railway lines showed ingenious engineering solutions to the problem of establishing an effective rail link across mountainous terrain and represented the latest technology of the time. The Mountain Railways of India was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

18. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya, Bihar in 2002

The Mahabodhi Temple is a world-famous Buddhist temple in the city of Bodh Gaya, Bihar state. The Mahabodhi Temple Complex was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.

19. Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh in 2003

The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka are located near the foothills of the Vindhyan Mountains in Madhya Pradesh. The site has the earliest traces of human life in India and according to an estimate, at least some of the shelters there were inhabited more than 100,000 years ago. The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.

20. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Maharashtra in 2004

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus in Mumbai. The terminal was built over 10 years, starting in 1878, according to a High Victorian Gothic design based on late mediaeval Italian models. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

21. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat in 2004

A hill fort from an ancient Hindu capital, and remains of the 16th century capital of the state of Gujarat. Dating back to between the 8th and 14th centuries, the site also includes, among other vestiges, fortifications, palaces, religious buildings, residential precincts, agricultural structures and water installations. The Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

22. Red Fort Complex, Delhi in 2007

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

Red Fort Complex was built in 1546 as the palace fort for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It represents the zenith of Mughal creativity as the architectural elements at the palace encompass the fusion of Persian, Timurid and Hindu traditions beautifully. The Red Fort Complex was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

23. The Jantar Mantar, Rajasthan in 2010

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

Built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur, it is an astronomical observation site built in the early 18th century. The structure was designed in such a way that astronomical positions would be visible with the naked eye. The site embodies several architectural and instrumental innovations. The Jantar Mantar was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.

24. Hill Forts of Rajasthan in 2013

Situated in Rajasthan, this site is made up of six majestic forts in Chittorgarh; Kumbhalgarh; Sawai Madhopur; Jhalawar; Jaipur, and Jaisalmer. The landscape around the forts provided a natural defence to the structures. The Hill Forts of Rajasthan was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.

25. Rani-ki-Vav or Queen's Stepwell, Gujarat in 2014

Rani-ki-Vav or Queen's Stepwell is built on the banks of the Saraswati River in Gujarat. Originally built as a memorial to the Queen of Solanki dynasty in the 11th century AD, the stepwell is divided into seven levels of stairs, the fourth level being the deepest. The Rani-ki-Vav or Queen's Stepwell was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

26. Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara (Nalanda University), Bihar in 2016

Nalanda University is located in the state of Bihar in northeastern India. The historical development of Nalanda bears witness to the development of Buddhism as a religion and the flourishing of monastic and educational traditions. Within the walls of this institution, knowledge has been continuously transmitted for 800 years. Nalanda University was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.

27. Jaipur City, Rajasthan in 2020

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Unsplash

The fortified city of Jaipur in Rajasthan was founded in 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II. Unlike other cities in the region located in hilly terrain, Jaipur was established on the plain and built according to a grid plan interpreted in the light of Vedic architecture. Jaipur City was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2020.

28. The Historic City of Ahmedabad, Gujarat in 2017

The walled city was founded in the early 15th century and is named after Sultan Ahmed Shah. Its history has been influenced by rulers and residents of various faiths - Muslims, Hindus, and Jains. The Historic City of Ahmedabad was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017.

29. The Victorian and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai, Maharashtra in 2018

The buildings are an excellent blend of Indian design with Art Deco imagery. The two buildings bear testimony to the phases of modernisation that Mumbai has undergone in the course of the 19th and 20th centuries. The Victorian and Art Deco Ensemble was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018.

30. The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement, Chandigarh in 2016

Spread over seven countries, these 17 masterpieces attest to the internationalisation of architectural practice across the planet. The place was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.

31. Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana in 2021

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Wikipedia

The Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple is a historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the town of Palampet in Telangana, India. It was built during the reign of the Kakatiya dynasty in the 13th century by a general named Recherla Rudra, who was a patron of the arts and architecture. The temple is also known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, as well as its unique architectural style. The temple is made of black basalt stone, which was locally sourced and carved by skilled craftsmen.

The Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021, becoming the 39th site in India to be included on the list.

32. Dholavira, Gujarat in 2021

World Heritage Day 2023 Know All About 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Photo: Wikipedia

Dholavira is an ancient Indus Valley Civilisation site located in the Khadir Bet Island of the Kutch district in Gujarat, India. It is one of the largest and most prominent archaeological sites in India and was inhabited from approximately 2650 BCE to 1450 BCE, and was first discovered in the year 1967, but excavation here began in 1989. UNESCO decalared Dholavira India's 40th UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021.

UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites:

1. Kaziranga National Park, Assam in 1985

Kaziranga National Park is a protected area in Assam and so far has remained undisturbed by a human presence. Several endangered species of animals and plants can be found here. The park has the world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses, as well as many mammals, including tigers, elephants, panthers and bears, and thousands of birds. The Kaziranga National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

2. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan in 1985

Keoladeo National Park is a vast bird sanctuary and had been a former duck-hunting reserve of the Maharajas in Rajasthan. The park has more than 364 species of birds, including the rare Siberian crane. The Keoladeo National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

3. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam in 1985

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is a national park and is a tiger, elephant and biosphere reserve in Assam. It is home to a great variety of wildlife, including many endangered species like a pygmy hog, Indian rhinoceros etc. The Manas Wildlife Sanctuary was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

4. Nanda Devi National Park and Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand in 1988, 2005

The Nanda Devi National Park and Valley of Flowers National Parks in Uttarakhand is renowned for their meadows of endemic alpine flowers and outstanding natural beauty. The park is also home to rare and endangered animals, including the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, and brown bear. The Nanda Devi National Park and Valley of Flowers was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, 2005.

5. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal in 1987

It is a large coastal mangrove forest that covers 10,000 km2 of land and water and is shared by India and Bangladesh. It contains the world's largest area of mangrove forests and is also home to rare or endangered species including tigers, aquatic mammals, birds and reptiles. The Sundarbans National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

6. Western Ghats, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala in 2012

Also known as Sahyadri, Western Ghats is a mountain range that covers an area of 160,000 km? in a stretch. Older than the Himalaya mountains, the site¡¯s high montane forest ecosystems influence the Indian monsoon weather pattern. These Western Ghats were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.

7. Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh in 2014

The Great Himalayan National Park is located in Himachal Pradesh. It was established in 1984. It is part of the Himalaya biodiversity hotspot and has a rich assemblage of fauna species, several of which are threatened. The Great Himalayan National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

UNESCO Mixed World Heritage Sites in India

1. Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim in 2016

It is a national park and a Biosphere reserve located in Sikkim and holds the title of "Mixed Heritage" site of India. Mythological stories are associated with this mountain and are greatly revered by the indigenous people of Sikkim. The Khangchendzonga National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.