India - UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) // India - UNESCO World Heritage Sites (2019–2023)

India – UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)


1. Traditional Rituals and Festivals of Assam (2023)



  • Sites include capital areas of the Ahom dynasty (1228–1826 CE) and burial grounds of royalty and nobles.

  • Recognized in UNESCO’s Representative List of ICH.

  • Represents traditional ceremonies, community gatherings, and ancestral rituals.


2. Chhau Dance (2008)



  • Considered sacred and performed during Hindu festivals.

  • Uses masks and theatrical movements to narrate stories.

  • Music includes four types of instruments:


         = Dhol (drum), / Shehnai, / Flute, / Cymbals.



  • Preserves ancient traditions of martial and ritualistic storytelling.


3. Ladakhi Buddhist Chanting (2012)



  • Rituals performed in trans-Himalayan Buddhist monasteries.

  • Involves sacred mantras and chanting.

  • Brings together monks and local communities in spiritual practice.


4. Manipuri Sankirtana (2013)



  • A ritual singing and drumming performance of Manipur.

  • Unites the community through devotional music and dance.

  • Recognized for cultural and spiritual cohesion.


5. Guru Nanak’s Traditional Craft (Punjab, 2014)



  • Includes traditional metal crafts, such as brass utensils.

  • Techniques are passed down through generations.

  • Items are believed to have health benefits.

  • Represents heritage craft linked to Sikh culture and daily life.


6. Yoga (2016)



  • Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage practice.

  • Promotes personal and social well-being.

  • Celebrated annually on 21 June as International Yoga Day.

  • Based on ancient Indian traditions of physical, mental, and spiritual exercises.


7. Navroz (2016)



  • Festival of Parsi community celebrating the new year.

  • Symbolizes prosperity, renewal, and respect for nature.

  • Involves rituals, feasts, and community gatherings.


India – UNESCO World Heritage Sites (2019–2023)


1. Jaipur City (Cultural – Rajasthan, 2019)



  • Founded by Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727.

  • The city was planned with a grid layout (well-organized streets).

  • Recognized as India’s second city after Ahmedabad to receive UNESCO heritage status.

  • Represents urban planning and architectural excellence of 18th-century Jaipur.


2. Ramappa Temple (Cultural – Palampet, Telangana, 2021)



  • A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in the 12th century during the Kakatiya dynasty.

  • Stands on a 6-foot-high platform made of floating bricks.

  • Represents Kakatiya architecture and medieval South Indian temple craftsmanship.


3. Dholavira (Cultural – Gujarat, 2021)



  • Ancient Harappan city, part of the Indus Valley Civilization.

  • Excavated in 1968, one of the best-preserved urban settlements of the civilization.

  • Demonstrates advanced urban planning, water management, and architecture of the Harappan period.


4. Shantiniketan (Cultural – West Bengal, 2023)



  • Located in Birbhum district, West Bengal.

  • Founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1901, later developed into Visva-Bharati University in 1921.

  • Name means “Abode of Peace”.

  • Recognized for its cultural, educational, and artistic significance.


5. Hoysala Temples (Cultural – Karnataka, 2023)



  • Located in Belur, Halebidu (Hassan district), and Somanathapura (Mysuru district).

  • Group includes:

    1. Chennakesava Temple, Belur - Built by King Vishnuvardhana, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

    2. Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu - Built by King Vishnuvardhana, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

    3. Keshava Temple, Somanathapura - Built by Commander Soma Dandanayaka under King Narasimha III, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.



  • Represents Hoysala architectural style, intricate carvings, and medieval South Indian temple heritage.