The term “World Heritage Sites of India” refers to those specific cultural, natural, or mixed heritage sites within the geographical boundaries of India that have been recognized and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. These sites are considered to have outstanding universal value and are deemed important not only for India but also for all of humanity.
When we talk about the “World Heritage Sites of India,” we are referring to the locations within India that have met the rigorous criteria set by UNESCO to demonstrate their exceptional cultural, natural, or mixed significance. These sites are recognized for their outstanding value and are included in the prestigious list maintained by UNESCO.
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World Heritage Sites of India
World Cultural Heritage Sites of India is inscribed by “The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The first sites to be inscribed were Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Agra Fort, and Taj Mahal, of which all were inscribed in the 1983 session of the World Heritage Committee. The latest site to be inscribed is Dholavira, Gujarat in 2021.
As per the latest data of July 2021, 19 states and UTs of India are the home of the World Heritage Sites and a part of incredible India. The Highest number of sites are present in Maharashtra. in this post, I have mentioned some important world heritage sites, their founder and the states/UTs where they are present. This post is the next part of the “Art and Culture Notes” which important for most of the Government Exams.
Cultural World Heritage Sites of India
The World Heritage Sites of India represent the country’s rich cultural heritage, architectural achievements, historical significance, natural wonders, and ecological importance. They include iconic landmarks, such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur City, and Qutb Minar, which showcase India’s architectural prowess and historical legacy. They also include natural wonders, such as Kaziranga National Park and the Western Ghats, which exemplify India’s incredible biodiversity and unique ecosystems.
The recognition of these sites as World Heritage Sites brings international attention to their value and serves as a reminder of their importance in preserving and safeguarding India’s cultural, historical, and natural heritage. These sites not only contribute to the global heritage but also promote tourism, enhance local economies, and foster a sense of pride and identity among the people of India.
List of important world heritage sites of India
| Site | State | Founder |
| Mahabodhi Temple | Bihar | Emperor Asoka |
| Red Fort | Delhi | Shah Jahan |
| Qutub Minar | Delhi | Qutub-ud-din Aibak |
| Humayun’s Tomb | Delhi | Mirak Mirza Ghiyath |
| Champaner Archaeological Park | Gujarat | Vanraj Chavda |
| Churches of Old Goa | Goa | Archbishop Dom Father Aleixo de Menezes |
| Jantar Mantar | Jaipur | Sawai Raja Jai Singh II |
| Hampi | Karnataka | Harihara and Bukka |
| Pattadakal | Karnataka | Chalukyas |
| Site | State | Founder |
| Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus | Mumbai, Maharashtra | F. W. Stevens |
| Ajanta Caves | Maharastra | Satvanas’ rulers |
| Ellora Caves | Maharashtra | Krishanadeva I |
| Sanchi Stupa | Madhya Pradesh | Emperor Ashoka |
| Khajuraho | Madhya Pradesh | Chandela Kings |
| Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka | Madhya Pradesh | Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar (Discoverer) |
| Elephanta Caves | Maharashtra | Krishnaraja, Kalachuri Dynasty |
| Konark Sun Temple | Odisha | Narshimha deva I |
| Mahabalipuram | Tamil Nadu | Narasimhavarman |
| Site | State | Founder |
| Great Living Chola Temples | Tamil Nadu | Raja Raja Chola I |
| Agra Fort | Uttar Pradesh | Mugal emperor Akbar |
| Taj Mahal | Uttar Pradesh | Mugal Emperor Shah Jahan |
| Fatehpur Sikri | Uttar Pradesh | Mugal emperor Akbar |
| Mountain Railway of India | West Bengal | Sir Ashley Eden |
| Nalanda Mahavihara | Bihar | Kumar Gupta I |
| Hill Forts of Rajasthan | Rajasthan | Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal |
| Ahmedabad City | Gujarat | Ahmed Shah I |
| Rani ki Vav | Gujarat | Rani Udyamati |
| Capital Complex | Chandigarh | architect Le Corbusier |
| Victorian and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai | Maharashtra |
Cultural Heritage of India
1. Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh:
- Year of Building: Constructed between 1631 and 1653 CE.
- Builder: The Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
- Important Details: It is a mausoleum built in white marble and considered a Mughal architectural masterpiece. The intricate carvings, calligraphy, and symmetrical design make it an iconic symbol of love.
2. Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi:
- Year of Building: Construction began in the 12th century.
- Builder: Qutb Minar was started by Qutb-ud-din Aibak and completed by Iltutmish.
- Important Details: The complex includes the 73-meter tall Qutb Minar, several ancient structures, and the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque. It blends Indo-Islamic architecture and includes intricately carved pillars and notable decorative elements.
3. Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments, Tamil Nadu:
- Year of Building: Predominantly built between the 7th and 8th centuries CE.
- Builder: The monuments were built during the reign of the Pallava dynasty.
- Important Details: The group of monuments consists of rock-cut temples, rathas (monolithic chariots), cave sanctuaries, and sculptural panels. Notable structures include the Shore Temple and the Descent of the Ganges bas-relief.
4. Red Fort Complex, Delhi:
- Year of Building: Construction began in 1639 and was completed in 1648.
- Builder: The Red Fort was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
- Important Details: The Red Fort served as the primary residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. Its impressive red sandstone architecture includes palaces, audience halls, and stunning gardens. The fort is known for its ornate decorative elements and the annual Independence Day celebrations held at its premises.
5. Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the late 16th century.
- Builder: Fatehpur Sikri was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great.
- Important Details: It served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for a brief period. The complex showcases a unique blend of Indian, Islamic, and Persian architectural styles. Notable structures include the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and Panch Mahal.
6. Hampi, Karnataka:
- Year of Building: Flourished as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire from the 14th to 16th centuries.
- Builder: Hampi was developed under the patronage of various Vijayanagara kings.
- Important Details: Hampi is a vast archaeological site with well-preserved ruins of temples, palaces, marketplaces, and other structures. The site showcases the architectural grandeur and artistic achievements of the Vijayanagara Empire.
7. Ellora Caves, Maharashtra:
- Year of Building: Constructed between the 6th and 10th centuries CE.
- Builder: Various rulers and dynasties, including the Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and Yadavas.
- Important Details: The Ellora Caves comprise a complex of 34 rock-cut temples representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The caves showcase intricate carvings, sculptures, and monolithic structures, highlighting ancient India’s cultural and religious diversity.
8. Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh:
- Year of Building: The original stupa was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, and subsequent additions were made over the centuries.
- Builder: Emperor Ashoka and later rulers of the Maurya, Sunga, and Gupta dynasties.
- Important Details: Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest stone structures in India and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. The site features a large hemispherical dome adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from the life of Buddha.
9. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha:
- Year of Building: Built in the 13th century.
- Builder: King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
- Important Details: The Konark Sun Temple is a masterpiece of Odishan architecture dedicated to the Sun God. The temple is renowned for its intricate stone carvings depicting celestial beings, animals, and mythological scenes. Its unique chariot-like structure is an architectural marvel.
10. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Maharashtra:
- Year of Building: Completed in 1888.
- Builder: Designed by British architect F.W. Stevens.
- Important Details: Formerly known as Victoria Terminus, this iconic railway station in Mumbai showcases a fusion of Victorian Gothic and traditional Indian architectural styles. The stunning facade, intricate stone carvings, and stained glass windows make it a significant landmark.
11. Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh:
- Year of Building: Constructed between the 9th and 11th centuries.
- Builder: The Chandela dynasty.
- Important Details: The Khajuraho temples are renowned for their intricate and erotic sculptures. The site houses a complex of Hindu and Jain temples known for their architectural brilliance, exquisite carvings, and depictions of various deities and celestial beings.
12. Elephanta Caves, Maharashtra:
- Year of Building: Created between the 5th and 8th centuries CE.
- Builder: The caves were constructed during the reign of various dynasties, including the Mauryas and Chalukyas.
- Important Details: The Elephanta Caves are a collection of rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The cave complex features impressive sculptures, intricate reliefs, and grand pillared halls, reflecting ancient India’s artistic and religious practices.
13. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat:
- Year of Building: Developed between the 8th and 16th centuries.
- Builder: The site was built under the rule of various dynasties, including the Solankis, Khiljis, and Gujarat Sultanate.
- Important Details: The park encompasses the ancient city of Champaner and the sacred hill of Pavagadh. It showcases a mix of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, including forts, palaces, mosques, and step wells, reflecting the region’s historical and cultural diversity.
14. Rani ki Vav, Gujarat:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 11th century.
- Builder: Queen Udayamati, in memory of her husband, King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty.
- Important Details: Rani ki Vav is an intricately designed step adorned with elaborate sculptures depicting deities, celestial beings, and mythological narratives. The step well showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the Solanki period and serves as a testament to water management systems of the time.
15. Chola Temples, Tamil Nadu:
- Year of Building: Constructed between the 10th and 12th centuries.
- Builder: The Chola dynasty, particularly rulers like Rajaraja I and Rajendra I.
- Important Details: The Great Living Chola Temples comprise three significant temples: Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, Brihadeeswarar Temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram. These temples represent the architectural brilliance of the Chola dynasty and exhibit exquisite carvings, towering gopurams (gateways), and intricate sculptures.
16. Group of Monuments at Pattadakal, Karnataka:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 7th and 8th centuries CE.
- Builder: The Chalukya dynasty.
- Important Details: Pattadakal is a complex of temples that showcase a harmonious blend of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles. The site includes both Hindu and Jain temples, known for their intricate carvings and architectural grandeur.
17. Hill Forts of Rajasthan:
- Year of Building: Constructed between the 5th and 18th centuries.
- Builder: Various Rajput kingdoms and rulers.
- Important Details: The Hill Forts of Rajasthan include six majestic forts: Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, Gagron, Amber, and Jaisalmer. These forts served as strategic defensive structures and are renowned for their architectural brilliance, royal palaces, and impressive fortifications.
18. Elephanta Island Caves, Maharashtra:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 5th to 8th centuries CE.
- Builder: Attribution to a specific ruler or dynasty needs to be clarified.
- Important Details: Located on Elephanta Island near Mumbai, these caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring intricate rock-cut sculptures and cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The caves highlight the rich religious and artistic heritage of ancient India.
19. The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, Chandigarh:
- Year of Building: Developed between the 1950s and 1960s.
- Builder: The renowned Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier planned and designed the city.
- Important Details: Chandigarh is a well-planned modern city that applies modernist architectural principles. It showcases Le Corbusier’s vision and features notable buildings like the Capitol Complex, Secretariat, and Open Hand Monument.
20. Victorian and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, Maharashtra:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the late 19th to early 20th centuries.
- Builder: Various architects during the British colonial era.
- Important Details: This ensemble comprises a collection of Mumbai Victorian and Art Deco-style buildings. The architectural styles reflect the city’s historical and cultural significance during the British Raj and the Art Deco movement.
21. Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara, Bihar:
- Year of Building: Founded in the 5th century BCE, it peaked between the 5th and 12th centuries CE.
- Builder: Nalanda Mahavihara was a renowned Buddhist monastery and center of learning in ancient India.
- Important Details: The site of Nalanda Mahavihara consists of the ruins of an ancient university and monastic complex. It served as a prominent center of Buddhist education, attracting scholars worldwide.
22. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), Maharashtra:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the late 19th century.
- Builder: Designed by British architect F.W. Stevens.
- Important Details: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, located in Mumbai, is a prime example of Victorian Gothic architecture in India. The building served as the headquarters of the Great Indian Peninsula Railway and is known for its impressive turrets, pointed arches, and stained glass windows.
23. Rani-ki-Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell), Gujarat:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 11th century CE.
- Builder: Queen Udayamati, in memory of her husband, King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty.
- Important Details: Rani-ki-Vav is an intricately designed stepwell in Patan, Gujarat. It features magnificent sculptures, galleries, and staircases, displaying remarkable craftsmanship and serving as a water-harvesting structure and a site of religious importance.
24. The Historic City of Ahmedabad, Gujarat:
- Year of Building: Founded in the 15th century.
- Builder: Ahmed Shah I, the founder of the city.
- Important Details: The historic city of Ahmedabad showcases a unique blend of Hindu, Islamic, and Jain architectural styles. It features intricately carved wooden havelis, pols (narrow lanes), mosques, and temples. The city’s urban design and planning reflect a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
25. Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, Maharashtra:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the late 19th to early 20th centuries.
- Builder: Various architects during the British colonial era.
- Important Details: Mumbai’s Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles represent two distinct architectural styles. The Victorian buildings showcase influences from the Gothic revival movement, while the Art Deco buildings reflect the modernist aesthetic of the early 20th century.
26. Padmanabhapuram Palace, Tamil Nadu:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 16th century.
- Builder: The palace was built by the rulers of the Travancore kingdom.
- Important Details: Padmanabhapuram Palace is known for its exquisite wooden architecture, intricate carvings, and traditional Keralite design elements. The palace complex includes several courtyards, halls, and residential quarters.
27. Great Living Chola Temples, Tamil Nadu:
- Year of Building: Constructed between the 10th and 12th centuries CE.
- Builder: The Chola dynasty built the temples, including Rajaraja I and Rajendra I.
- Important Details: This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises three significant temples: the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram. These temples are renowned for their grandeur, intricate carvings, and religious significance.
28. Rani Padmini’s Palace, Rajasthan:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 14th century.
- Builder: Rani Padmini, a queen of the Rajput kingdom of Mewar, commissioned the palace.
- Important Details: Located in Chittorgarh Fort, Rani Padmini’s Palace is known for its stunning architecture, water pavilions, and beautiful gardens. It is associated with the legendary tale of Rani Padmini, known for her beauty and courage.
29. Group of Monuments at Hampi, Karnataka:
- Year of Building: Flourished as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire from the 14th to 16th centuries CE.
- Builder: Hampi was developed under the patronage of various Vijayanagara kings.
- Important Details: Hampi is a vast archaeological site with well-preserved ruins of temples, palaces, marketplaces, and other structures. The site showcases the architectural grandeur and artistic achievements of the Vijayanagara Empire.
30. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala, Karnataka:
- Year of Building: Constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries CE.
- Builder: The temples were built by the Hoysala dynasty.
- Important Details: This ensemble includes a series of intricately carved Hindu temples known for their unique architecture and decorative elements. Notable temples in this group are the Chennakesava Temple at Belur, the Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu, and the Kesava Temple at Somanathapura.
31. Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 13th century.
- Builder: King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
- Important Details: The Sun Temple in Konark is dedicated to the Sun God and is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and architectural grandeur. The temple is designed as a colossal chariot with stone wheels, horses, and intricate sculptures depicting various mythological scenes.
32. Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 11th century CE.
- Builder: Queen Udayamati, in memory of her husband, King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty.
- Important Details: Rani Ki Vav, also known as the Queen’s Stepwell, is a magnificent stepwell in Patan, Gujarat. It features elaborate sculptures, intricately carved pillars, and galleries showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. The stepwell served as a water storage system and a place of spiritual significance.
33. The Historic City of Jaipur, Rajasthan:
- Year of Building: Founded in 1727 CE.
- Builder: Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.
- Important Details: The historic city of Jaipur, known as the Pink City, is renowned for its well-planned urban layout, architectural gems, and vibrant cultural heritage. It features iconic landmarks such as the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and numerous palaces and temples that showcase the grandeur of Rajput architecture.
34. The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, Chandigarh:
- Year of Building: Developed between the 1950s and 1960s.
- Builder: The renowned Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier planned and designed the city.
- Important Details: Chandigarh is a modernist city that reflects Le Corbusier’s architectural principles and urban planning concepts. The city’s landmarks, including the Capitol Complex, Secretariat, High Court, and Open Hand Monument, showcase bold geometric designs and innovative architectural elements.
35. Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan:
- Year of Building: Constructed in the 12th century.
- Builder: Rawal Jaisal, a Rajput ruler.
- Important Details: Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the “Golden Fort,” is a massive sandstone fort in the heart of Jaisalmer city. It is a living heritage site with residential structures, markets, temples, and havelis (mansions) within its walls. The fort’s yellow sandstone architecture gives it a mesmerizing golden hue during the day.
FAQs on World Heritage Sites of India
Q1: What are World Heritage Sites?
A1: World Heritage Sites are places of outstanding universal value recognized and protected by UNESCO for their cultural, natural, or mixed significance. These sites are considered important for humanity as a whole and are inscribed on the World Heritage List.
Q2: How many World Heritage Sites are there in India?
A2: As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, India has 40 World Heritage Sites. However, please note that this number may have changed since then due to new additions or removals.
Q3: What types of World Heritage Sites are found in India?
A3: The World Heritage Sites in India encompass a wide range of cultural, natural, and mixed properties. Cultural sites include monuments, temples, forts, palaces, and archaeological complexes. Natural sites include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and mountain ranges. Mixed sites are a combination of cultural and natural elements.
Q4: What are some famous World Heritage Sites in India?
A4: Some renowned World Heritage Sites in India include the Taj Mahal, Red Fort Complex, Jaipur City, Kaziranga National Park, Hampi, Qutb Minar, and the Western Ghats. These sites represent the country’s rich cultural heritage, architectural marvels, and natural treasures.
Q5: How are World Heritage Sites selected?
A5: The selection of World Heritage Sites involves a rigorous evaluation process. A site must meet specific criteria defined by UNESCO, including exceptional universal value, cultural or natural significance, integrity, authenticity, and proper management and conservation plans.
Q6: What is the significance of World Heritage Sites?
A6: World Heritage Sites hold immense cultural, historical, and ecological value. They represent the shared heritage of humanity and are recognized as sites of outstanding importance. These sites contribute to tourism, promote cultural understanding, and serve as reminders of our collective past.
Q7: Can I visit World Heritage Sites in India?
A7: Yes, most of the World Heritage Sites in India are open to the public. Visitors can explore and appreciate the cultural and natural treasures of these sites. However, it is essential to respect the guidelines, regulations, and conservation efforts in place to ensure their preservation for future generations.
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Conclusion: World heritage sites of India
India’s World Heritage Sites are not just architectural wonders or natural landscapes; they are windows into the rich tapestry of the country’s history, culture, and biodiversity. From the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal to the royal splendor of Jaipur, the artistic treasures of Mahabalipuram to the wildlife haven of Kaziranga, each site has a story to tell and an experience to offer. Exploring these sites allows visitors to connect with India’s past, appreciate its present, and marvel at its natural wonders. So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, India’s World Heritage Sites await, ready to transport you to a world of beauty, heritage, and discovery.