India, with a rich cultural and historical heritage, has left an indelible mark on the world. Every corner of the country has a unique story to tell, and every monument reflects the unique blend of culture, religion, and architecture. Interestingly, there are 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India that showcase India’s artistic and engineering prowess, as well as its rich history and cultural diversity. The first set of monuments in India to be recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites were the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Ellora, and Ajanta Caves in 1983. Many monuments have become protected over the past few years in a number of categories, including as cultural and ecological world heritage sites. Dholavira in Gujarat, a remnant of the incredible Indus Valley Civilization, and Ramappa Temple in Telangana are the most recent additions to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. These sites being recognised by UNESCO are an essential part of India’s tourism industry.
On World Heritage Day, Sita brings you its top 5 must-see world heritage sites in India for travellers.
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is one of the most famous and recognisable monuments in the world. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his chief consort, Mumtaz Mahal. In 1983, the Taj Mahal was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognising its cultural and historical significance. The white marble structure with its intricate carvings and inlaid precious stones is a sight to behold, especially during sunrise and sunset. It is a testament to the Mughal era’s artistic excellence and architectural achievements. It also reflects the cultural fusion of Indian, Persian, and Islamic architectural styles, making it a unique blend of different traditions.
Red Fort, Delhi
The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is an iconic monument located in the heart of Old Delhi, India. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a palace and administrative center of the Mughal Empire. It is a stunning example of the fusion of Indian, Persian, and European architectural styles. It features beautiful gardens, courtyards, and stunning buildings that reflect the grandeur of the Mughal era. In 2007, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognising its cultural and historical significance.
Ellora Caves
The Ellora Caves are a collection of 34 rock-cut temples located near Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. They were constructed between the 6th and 10th centuries AD, and their design and architecture are a unique blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions. The Ellora Caves are an architectural masterpiece, and their design and execution reflect the artistic and engineering achievements of ancient India. The caves were carved out of solid basalt rock and feature intricate carvings, sculptures, and paintings. In 1983, the Ellora Caves were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognising their cultural and historical significance.
Khajuraho Group of Monuments
The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a collection of Hindu and Jain temples located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. These temples were built during the Chandela dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries AD. They are popular for the beautiful, intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the temple walls. These carvings depict various scenes from Hindu mythology and everyday life, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who built them. The temples are also unique in their architectural design, featuring a blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles. These temples are a testament to the religious and cultural diversity that existed in India during the mediaeval period. In 1986, the Khajuraho Group of Monuments was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognising its cultural and historical significance.
Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. It was built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II, who was a great lover of astronomy and mathematics. It consists of a collection of astronomical instruments that were used to measure time and track celestial bodies’ movements. The observatory features instruments such as the Samrat Yantra, a sundial that can measure time to an accuracy of 2 seconds, and the Jai Prakash Yantra, a device used to measure the position of stars and planets. The observatory’s instruments were incredibly advanced for their time, and they reflect the remarkable astronomical knowledge and expertise of the period. In 2010, Jantar Mantar was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognising its cultural and scientific significance.
World Heritage Day marks the celebration of the incredible heritage and culture that make India a must-visit destination for travellers from around the world. Sita has spent the last 60 years working towards promoting sustainable tourism and creating memorable experiences for all our visitors. Come celebrate incredible India at its best with Sita and experience the unique stories that echo through the heritage of India.
