UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India (Cultural & Natural)-1

1. Elephanta Caves (Maharashtra – 1987)



  • The site contains five main caves, primarily associated with Hinduism.

  • Located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour.

  • The cave complex was mainly constructed during the 5th and 6th centuries.

  • The caves are dedicated to Lord Shiva, with the famous Trimurti (three-headed Shiva) sculpture being the most notable feature.


2. Group of Monuments at Pattadakal (Karnataka – 1987)



  • The site includes nine Hindu temples and one Jain temple.

  • Built by the Chalukya dynasty during the 7th and 8th centuries.

  • The Virupaksha Temple was constructed by Queen Lokamahadevi in 740 CE to commemorate her husband’s victory over southern kings.

  • Represents a blend of Dravidian (South Indian) and Nagara (North Indian) architectural styles.


3. Great Living Chola Temples (Tamil Nadu – 1987, extended 2004)



  • A group of Hindu temples built by the Chola dynasty between the 11th and 12th centuries.

  • Includes three temples:

    • Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur

    • Gangaikondacholapuram Temple at Gangaikondacholapuram

    • Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram



  • These temples are known for their grand architecture, intricate sculptures, and devotion to Lord Shiva.


4. Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal – 1987)



  • A national park that spans the deltas of the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers.

  • It is the largest mangrove forest in the world.

  • Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

  • Added as a Ramsar Wetland Site in 2019.

  • It is also a biodiversity hotspot, home to the Royal Bengal Tiger and various aquatic species.


5. Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks (Uttarakhand – 1988, extended 2005)



  • This World Heritage Site includes two areas:

    • Nanda Devi National Park

    • Valley of Flowers National Park



  • Known for their majestic Himalayan landscapes, rare flora, and snow-covered peaks.

  • The Valley of Flowers is famous for its seasonal bloom of over 300 species of alpine flowers.

  • These parks are rich in biodiversity and part of the Western Himalaya eco-region.


6. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters (Madhya Pradesh – 2003)



  • Located in Raisen district, near Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

  • Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.

  • Contains prehistoric rock shelters and cave paintings.

  • Paintings belong to the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods.

  • Depict hunting, dancing, and animal figures—evidence of early human life.

  • One of the oldest known human habitations in the Indian subcontinent.


7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), formerly Victoria Terminus (Maharashtra – 2004)



  • Located in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

  • Recognized by UNESCO in 2004.

  • Designed by British architect F. W. Stevens.

  • Built in 1888—a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture blended with Indian influences.

  • Serves as the headquarters of the Central Railways.

  • Symbolizes Mumbai’s colonial and modern heritage.


8. Champaner–Pavagadh Archaeological Park (Gujarat – 2004)



  • Located near Vadodara, Gujarat.

  • Added to UNESCO’s list in 2004

  • Represents a mix of Hindu and Muslim architecture from the 15th–16th centuries.

  • Includes palaces, mosques, stepwells, and fortifications.

  • Home to the Kalika Mata Temple on Pavagadh Hill, an active pilgrimage site.

  • Provides insight into urban planning and religious coexistence in medieval India.


9. Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Tamil Nadu – 2005)



  • Located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu.

  • Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

  • Part of the “Mountain Railways of India” group (with Darjeeling & Kalka–Shimla).

  • Built by the British in 1908.

  • A 45.38 km long meter-gauge single-track line, connecting Mettupalayam to Ooty.

  • Known for steam locomotives, scenic routes, and engineering excellence in hill railways.


10. Red Fort Complex (Delhi – 2007)



  • Located in Delhi, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century (1638–1648).

  • Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

  • Example of Mughal architectural brilliance with red sandstone walls and intricate designs.

  • Important national symbol — the Prime Minister hoists the Indian flag here every Independence Day (15 August).

  • Includes structures like Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and Rang Mahal.

  • Represents the political and cultural heart of Mughal India.