India’s World Heritage Sites: All 35 Spots｜Famous Tourist Attractions You Must See at Least Once

As of 2019, India has a total of 35 World Heritage Sites registered, consisting of 27 cultural heritage sites, 7 natural heritage sites, and 1 mixed heritage site. Each of these locations is fascinating and well worth seeing. India’s vast land is incredibly diverse in language, culture, and religion, creating a unique and chaotic blend that is part of its great charm. Here, we introduce all 35 of India’s World Heritage Sites, where cultural shocks await at every turn.

1. Taj Mahal

It is no exaggeration to say that the Taj Mahal is the most famous building in India. Located in Agra, North India, the Taj Mahal attracts countless tourists from all over India and around the world who come to see it with their own eyes. The Taj Mahal is a stunning white marble mausoleum built by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Construction began in 1632, and with a constant workforce of 20,000 laborers, it took 22 years to complete in 1653. It is said that by the time it was finished, the royal treasury was completely depleted. The mausoleum, flanked by four minarets and a symmetrical Charbagh (four-part garden), showcases perfect symmetry through meticulous calculations. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

3. Group of Monuments at Hampi

Hampi, located southeast of Mumbai, was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. Many grand palaces and Hindu temples were built, leading to a golden age of prosperity. However, in 1565, the empire was defeated by a coalition of five Muslim kingdoms in the Battle of Talikota, leaving the once-magnificent city in ruins.

Due to the historical value of its approximately 40 remaining structures, Hampi was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Highlights include the beautifully carved Virupaksha Temple, which remains active today, and the Vittala Temple, considered the finest example of Vijayanagara architecture.

4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya

The Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya is the site where, about 2,500 years ago, Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. Recognized as the birthplace of Buddhism, Bodh Gaya is one of the Four Holy Buddhist Sites, alongside Lumbini in Nepal, and Sarnath and Kushinagar in India. It attracts Buddhist monks and pilgrims from around the world.

Inside the temple, a golden statue of Buddha, draped in a yellow robe influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, welcomes visitors. The statue is in the "earth-touching" mudra, symbolizing Buddha’s triumph over evil. Next to the 52-meter-high main temple stands a massive Bodhi tree, under which Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple Complex was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.

5. Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves, one of India's Three Great Cave Temple Complexes, are located in the northwest Deccan Plateau of Maharashtra. These 30 Buddhist caves, carved into a 550-meter cliff along the Waghora River, were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Their history dates back to around the 2nd century BCE.

Initially used by Theravāda (Hinayana) Buddhists, the caves were later abandoned. However, with the rise of Mahāyāna Buddhism between the 3rd and 5th centuries, excavation resumed. During this time, intricate carvings and paintings were added to the pillars and ceilings, with reliefs depicting Buddhist stories, helping even the illiterate understand the teachings. Eventually, as Hinduism became the dominant religion under the Gupta Empire, the caves were abandoned once more around the 7th or 8th century and were gradually swallowed by the jungle.

6. Hill Forts of Rajasthan

Rajasthan, located in northwestern India, is home to one of the world's largest desert regions. The Rajput clans have lived here since around the 8th century, establishing a unique Hindu-centric culture. Because this desert region was a major crossroads for many ethnic groups, including Indians, Persians, and Turks, they built fortified hill forts to protect the oasis cities. Today, numerous forts and castles from different eras remain across Rajasthan.

Jaisalmer Fort, built in the 12th century, is a nearly impregnable fortress made of yellow sandstone that has protected the town of Jaisalmer for centuries. Even today, about 3,000 people live within its walls.

Chittorgarh Fort was once the capital of the Mewar Kingdom, one of the Rajput kingdoms. Though it became a ruin after the capital was relocated, visitors can still climb its two remaining towers. The fort is also home to many historical structures, including Padmini’s Palace, Rana Kumbha Palace, and Meera Bai Temple.

7. Humayun's Tomb, Delhi

Located in the heart of India's capital, Delhi, Humayun’s Tomb is the mausoleum of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun. At the age of 22, Humayun inherited the Mughal Empire from his father, but faced numerous challenges, losing most of his inherited territories within a decade. During his exile at the age of 33, he met and married a 19-year-old Persian woman named Hamida. With Persian support, he successfully recaptured Delhi, but tragically died in 1556 after falling down a staircase.

Hamida commissioned a magnificent tomb for her late husband on the banks of the Yamuna River, which took nine years to complete. The garden surrounding the tomb, called Charbagh (a four-part garden), is heavily influenced by Persian design. Humayun’s Tomb is said to have inspired the later construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra and was designated as India’s first Mughal-style mausoleum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

8. Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi

During the peak of the Maurya Empire, India's first unified state, the third emperor, Ashoka, built 84,000 stupas to enshrine the relics of Buddha in the 3rd century BCE. Eight of these stupas were constructed at Sanchi, and three still remain today, known as Stupa No. 1, Stupa No. 2, and Stupa No. 3. The site also features the famous Ashoka Pillar.

After the 14th century, Sanchi fell into ruins and was forgotten until its rediscovery in 1818. Though it had been looted over time, British archaeologist Sir John Marshall led excavations in 1912, bringing the site back to prominence. Recognized as an essential Buddhist heritage site, the stupas and surrounding structures were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.

9. Great Living Chola Temples

The Great Living Chola Temples, located in the central and southern regions of Tamil Nadu, consist of two Brihadeeswarar Temples and the Airavatesvara Temple. These Hindu temples were constructed by the Chola kings between the 9th and 13th centuries.

The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, built in the early 11th century, was the largest temple of its time and remains the pinnacle of South Indian temple architecture. It is even nicknamed the "Big Temple." At the top of its main shrine sits a stone structure called the "Shikhara," symbolizing the boundary between the human and divine realms. Weighing an astonishing 80 tons, how it was lifted into place remains a mystery. These temples stand as a testament to the prosperity of the Chola Dynasty and its advanced architectural techniques, earning them World Heritage status.

10. Elephanta Caves

Elephanta Island, located about 10 km east of Mumbai, is accessible by a 40-minute boat ride. It is home to the Elephanta Caves, one of India’s Three Great Cave Temple Complexes. Though the island originally had seven cave temples, only Cave No. 1 remains well-preserved, as most of the others were destroyed during Portuguese rule in the 16th century. The island itself was named "Elephanta" by the Portuguese, after a stone elephant found there, though its original name was Gharapuri.

The caves, estimated to have been built between the 6th and 8th centuries, lack inscriptions, making their exact date uncertain. The main attraction is the 5.7-meter-tall three-faced bust of Lord Shiva, an iconic masterpiece of Hindu art and one of the key reasons for the site's UNESCO designation in 1987. The caves also feature remarkable sculptures, including a dancing Shiva and a half-male, half-female Ardhanarishvara relief, along with massive temple halls that showcase the grandeur of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture.

11. Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri, meaning "City of Victory," was the capital built by the third Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century after relocating from the old city of Agra. Akbar expanded his empire from Agra and eventually ruled nearly the entire Indian subcontinent. He was one of the most powerful and beloved Mughal emperors, but he faced one major issue—he had no heir.

It is said that he visited a wise Islamic saint in the village of Sikri, who prophesied that he would have three sons within five years. As predicted, Akbar had three sons in consecutive years, prompting him to move his capital to Fatehpur Sikri in gratitude.

Although Akbar had already moved the capital from Delhi to Agra, he decided to relocate again to Fatehpur Sikri before Agra Fort was even completed. One theory suggests that Akbar found Agra’s heat unbearable. The city blended Indian wooden architecture with Islamic architectural elements, creating a new style, but Akbar only lived there for 14 years before shifting his capital to Lahore, in present-day Pakistan. Fatehpur Sikri was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

12. Group of Monuments at Pattadakal

Pattadakal, located in northern Karnataka, is home to nine Hindu temples built between the 6th and 8th centuries. The site is unique in that it features both South Indian (Dravidian) and North Indian (Nagara) architectural styles, leading to its inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. These temples represent the peak of Chalukya Dynasty religious architecture and influenced temple construction across eastern and central India.

Dravidian-style temples have pyramid-like structures with straight ridges leading to a rounded, missile-shaped top. In contrast, Nagara-style temples feature towering, Himalayan-inspired spires. The largest temple, Virupaksha Temple, has intricately carved walls and ceilings depicting countless images of Lord Shiva. The grand inner sanctum is a must-see.

13. Khajuraho Group of Monuments

The Khajuraho temples were built between the 10th and 13th centuries by the Chandela Dynasty, which flourished along the middle Ganges River. Originally, 85 temples stood in this complex, but only 25 remain today. By the 13th century, the rising influence of Islamic forces threatened the region, and by the 14th century, the entire area was conquered. Since Islamic rulers forbade idol worship, many of the temple’s sculptures were destroyed.

The temple complex is divided into three groups: Western, Eastern, and Southern, with the Western Group being the best preserved. The temples feature intricate "Mithuna" sculptures—elaborate carvings of entwined couples and animals, each unique in design. These carvings are believed to be prayers for fertility and are not only fascinating in concept but also executed with exceptional artistic quality. Exploring them can take an entire day.

Although Khajuraho is a small village, visitors can enjoy light shows and the Kandariya Dance Show, making it a lively heritage site for tourists.

14. Churches and Convents of Goa

In the 16th century, Goa was a Portuguese colony and was modeled after Lisbon, featuring European-style streets and architecture. Though much of the historic city has disappeared, its remaining churches and convents were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

Notable sites include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the remains of Saint Francis Xavier, the missionary responsible for spreading Christianity in Goa. Other highlights include the Church of St. Francis of Assisi and Sé Cathedral. During the Portuguese colonial era, Goa served as the center of Christianity in the East.

As Portuguese rule became more established, conversion efforts intensified, leading to the destruction of many Hindu temples. At its peak, Goa had a population of 200,000, including Portuguese traders. However, in the 17th century, outbreaks of malaria and cholera devastated the city, prompting the governor to move the capital 9 km west to Panaji. The abandoned city became known as "Old Goa."

15. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram

Located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, Mahabalipuram thrived as a major trading hub from the 6th century onward. The region is known for its breathtaking temples and sculptures carved into the coastal rocks and hills. Recognized as the birthplace of medieval Indian architecture, these structures were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

Among the most famous structures are the "Five Rathas," a collection of monolithic temples carved to resemble ancient wooden structures. Their walls feature intricate depictions of lions, elephants, and other animals. The compact layout of the site makes it ideal for leisurely exploration on foot. As you admire the magnificent rock reliefs and temple carvings, you’ll find vendors selling coconuts and ice cream, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

16. Konark Sun Temple

The Konark Sun Temple was built by the Ganga Dynasty to commemorate their victory over invading Islamic forces from the west in the late 12th century. Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, this temple stands as a symbol of triumph.

Located in the small coastal village of Konark, known for its beautiful beaches, the temple no longer retains its original form. What makes it famous are its intricate Hindu sculptures. Inspired by the Indian ancient texts, the "Vedas," the temple depicts Surya riding a chariot pulled by seven horses. The temple base features 24 intricately carved stone wheels, each 3 meters tall, representing the hours of the day.

Built with a workforce of 12,000 laborers and an enormous budget, the temple's main sanctum has collapsed, leaving only its foundation. The remaining prayer hall is still intact but has been sealed with stone, leading to speculation that the sandy ground was unable to support the temple’s immense weight. The Konark Sun Temple was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

17. Agra Fort

A symbol of the Mughal Empire's power during its golden age, Agra Fort was built by the third Mughal Emperor Akbar after relocating the capital from Delhi to Agra. It served as the imperial residence for three successive emperors. However, most of the structures seen today were built during the reign of the fifth emperor, Shah Jahan, who adorned the fort with his signature white marble palaces.

Shah Jahan, the emperor who famously depleted the treasury to construct the Taj Mahal in memory of his beloved wife, was later imprisoned in Agra Fort by his own son, Aurangzeb. From his confinement, he is said to have spent his final days gazing at the Taj Mahal from the fort.

18. Red Fort Complex

The Red Fort in Delhi, known as "Lal Qila," is an iconic fortress from the Mughal era. It serves as the symbol of Old Delhi and is the site where the Indian Prime Minister delivers an annual Independence Day speech on August 15. It was built in 1648 by the fifth Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, when he moved the capital from Agra to his newly established city, Shahjahanabad (now Old Delhi).

In 2007, the Red Fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the adjacent Salimgarh Fort. However, during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, British forces occupied the fort, converting it into a military barracks, significantly altering its original architecture. Today, only sections of the walls and gates retain their historic appearance.

19. Keoladeo National Park

Located in Rajasthan, Keoladeo National Park is a sanctuary for endangered and rare migratory birds, such as the Siberian crane. Originally a natural depression, the area was transformed in the 18th century when embankments were built, turning it into a wetland that soon attracted a diverse range of bird species. Today, over 230 bird species inhabit the park.

Initially, the land was used as a hunting ground by the ruling Maharajas, and hunting continued even under British colonial rule and post-independence India. Today, visitors can explore the park by auto-rickshaw or bicycle while enjoying birdwatching. Keoladeo was declared a national park in 1982 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

20. Mountain Railways of India

The Mountain Railways of India comprise three historic railway lines: the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and the Kalka-Shimla Railway. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was the first to be inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the other two added later.

Built during British colonial rule, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was completed in 1881 to transport tea and provide summer access to the hill station of Darjeeling.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, completed in 1899, runs from Mettupalayam (altitude 100m) to Udhagamandalam (altitude 2,200m), covering 46 km with 16 tunnels, 208 curves, and over 250 bridges. The journey takes five hours, winding through breathtaking landscapes.

The Kalka-Shimla Railway, built in 1903, was designed to transport passengers to Shimla, the British summer capital. Covering 96 km from Kalka to Shimla, it offers a scenic five-hour journey through the Himalayan foothills.

21. Western Ghats

Stretching for 1,600 km along India’s western coast, the Western Ghats mountain range has an average elevation of approximately 1,000 meters, with its highest peak, Anamudi, standing at 2,695 meters. Moist winds from the Arabian Sea hit the mountains, causing heavy rainfall on the coastal side, while dry winds descend toward the Deccan Plateau. This phenomenon significantly influences India's climate and serves as a major source of water for many rivers.

Despite being in the tropics, the region’s unique monsoon-driven climate fosters a high-altitude forest ecosystem. It hosts a mix of African and Asian-origin species, boasting incredible biodiversity and a high number of endemic species. Due to these remarkable ecological characteristics, the Western Ghats were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.

22. Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area

Located in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, in northern India, the Great Himalayan National Park encompasses peaks along the western Himalayas, alpine meadows, and 21 forested river valleys. It is part of a biodiversity hotspot, home to many endangered and rare species. The park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. While Mount Everest falls within Nepal’s Sagarmatha National Park, the Great Himalayan National Park represents India’s western Himalayan conservation efforts.

To preserve the delicate environment, entry is restricted, and visitors must obtain prior permission. Solo trekking is not allowed, so tourists must join guided trekking tours. Trekking is possible year-round, though the monsoon season (July to early September) and the winter snow season (December to February) should be avoided due to harsh weather conditions.

23. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary

Manas National Park, located in northern India and partially extending into Bhutan, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, along with Kaziranga National Park and Keoladeo National Park. It is one of India’s most critical wildlife reserves, home to the Indian elephant, one-horned rhinoceros, golden langur, clouded leopard, and golden cat, among other species that inhabit its vast grasslands.

During the 1980s and early 1990s, ethnic conflicts led to rampant poaching, and the site was temporarily placed on the list of World Heritage in Danger. However, peace was restored, and strong anti-poaching measures were implemented, leading to its removal from the danger list. Visitors can explore the sanctuary by boat along the Manas River, on a jeep safari, or even on elephant-back tours.

24. Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka

Situated at the foothills of the Vindhya mountain range on the Deccan Plateau, the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters comprise five rock clusters with over 400 rock caves and shelters. These caves served as dwellings from the Mesolithic period to historic times, with murals categorized into seven distinct artistic periods.

The oldest paintings date back approximately 30,000 years, depicting scenes of hunting, warriors on horseback wielding spears, and dancing figures, offering insights into early human life. The "Zoo Rock" is particularly notable for its depictions of elephants, barasingha deer, bison, and other animals, as well as peacocks and snakes. Spanning about two kilometers, the site is best explored with a local guide to ensure you don’t miss any of the fascinating rock art. Bhimbetka was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.

25. Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks

At 7,816 meters, Nanda Devi is the highest peak located entirely within India. With its twin peaks resembling cat’s ears, the mountain has been revered in Hinduism as the sacred dwelling of the goddess Nanda. To preserve its fragile ecosystem and religious significance, the area surrounding the summit was declared the Nanda Devi Sanctuary in 1983, restricting all access, including for local residents. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.

The Valley of Flowers National Park, located in Uttarakhand in northern India, is a 10 km long valley situated at an altitude of approximately 3,500 meters in the western Himalayas. Hidden deep in the Himalayas, this valley is a botanical wonderland, renowned for its vast array of alpine flora. Covered in deep snow until early summer, the valley bursts into bloom during the warmer months, featuring meadows of Pedicularis (lousewort), buttercups, and the elusive blue poppy. The Valley of Flowers was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

26. Qutub Minar and its Monuments, Delhi

Located 15 km from the outskirts of New Delhi, the Qutub Minar complex is the oldest surviving Islamic site in India. It was built in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Slave Dynasty, to commemorate his conquest of northern India. The minaret, known as Qutub Minar, was constructed as an annex to the mosque and served as a symbol of Islamic dominance over the local Hindu population.

Although it has undergone repairs due to earthquakes and lightning strikes, the tower stands at 72.5 meters today. Once considered the tallest minaret in the world, it has since been surpassed by the 200-meter-tall minaret of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco. The Qutub Minar was built using materials from destroyed Hindu temples, and Hindu artisans were likely employed in its construction, resulting in a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. The entire complex was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

27. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

Located in western India, the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park consists of two distinct areas: the walled village of Champaner and the surrounding Pavagadh Hill, located 4 km to the southwest. Champaner flourished as a Hindu kingdom from the 4th century, but in the 15th century, Sultan Mahmud Begada conquered the region and developed it into a fortified city, constructing several mosques.

However, in the 16th century, the Mughal Emperor Humayun defeated the local rulers, leaving the city abandoned. Today, Pavagadh Hill remains an important pilgrimage site, home to both Hindu and Jain temples. Visitors can take a shared bus to the middle of the hill and continue to the summit via a ropeway. The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

28. Rani-ki-Vav at Patan, Gujarat (Queen’s Stepwell)

Among India's more recently designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites is Rani-ki-Vav, also known as the Queen’s Stepwell. Stepwells are common in Gujarat, including in Patan, where they were designed to store water in the arid region. They also functioned as natural air-conditioning systems, using evaporative cooling.

Commissioned in 1050 by a queen of the Solanki Dynasty, Rani-ki-Vav extends 64 meters in length, 20 meters in width, and 27 meters in depth, with seven tiers. Beyond its impressive scale, the stepwell is renowned for its intricately carved sculptures of Hindu deities and mythological scenes, which are breathtaking in their artistry. Having been buried in sediment for centuries, it was rediscovered in 1986, remarkably well-preserved thanks to its long burial. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

29. Sundarbans National Park

Sundarbans National Park, located in West Bengal near the Bangladesh border, is part of the world’s largest delta region. It is home to many endangered and rare species. In the 1970s, conservation efforts were launched to protect the Bengal tiger, which was on the verge of extinction. Under "Project Tiger," the Sundarbans were designated as a Bengal tiger reserve, later becoming a protected forest area and, in 1984, a national park.

The park was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Visitors can explore the Sundarbans by boat or from one of the three observation towers inside the park. The West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation also offers a two-day guided tour from October to March, providing an unforgettable experience of this unique ecosystem.

30. Jantar Mantar

Located in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a Mughal-era ruler and astronomer. He also founded the city of Jaipur and built the City Palace, his royal residence.

Jantar Mantar contains 20 astronomical instruments, the most striking of which is a 27-meter-tall sundial. At the center of the observatory is an instrument dedicated to observing the twelve zodiac constellations—visitors can even try to find their own zodiac sign. The instruments are remarkably precise, showcasing the advanced astronomical and architectural knowledge of the time. Jantar Mantar was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.

31. Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in Assam, a northeastern state of India famous for its tea plantations. The park is best known for its elephant-back safaris, which offer a close-up view of the one-horned Indian rhinoceros. Due to heavy flooding during the monsoon season, more than half of the park is submerged in water, so it is open only from November to April during the dry season. This wildlife sanctuary is home to endangered Indian rhinos, tigers, deer, wild boars, elephants, water buffaloes, and many other species.

For those wanting a close encounter with rhinos, the elephant safari is recommended. For a broader exploration of the vast park, the jeep safari is a great option. The elephant safari requires booking a ticket at the park office the day before, and it departs early in the morning with a limited number of participants. Accompanied by a mahout and an armed ranger, visitors ride through the grasslands at sunrise for a chance to spot the Indian rhinoceros. Kaziranga National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

32. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Formerly Victoria Terminus)

Mumbai’s largest railway station, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), is commonly referred to as CST or its former name, Victoria Terminus (VT). Named after Queen Victoria, this station was the starting point of India’s first-ever railway service. Designed in Venetian Gothic style, its grand architecture resembles a palace or museum rather than a railway station.

Construction began in 1878 and was completed in 1888. Recognized as a historical landmark, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. If time permits, visitors should not only admire the exterior but also explore the interior, which features exquisite wood carvings, ironwork, brass railings, and grand staircases—many of which were crafted by students from the Bombay Art School.

33. Capitol Complex, Chandigarh

Le Corbusier, one of the three great modern architects, was born in Switzerland and later became a prominent figure in French architecture. His works, spanning seven countries, were recognized for their significant contribution to modernist architecture and were collectively inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 under "The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement."

The Capitol Complex in Chandigarh was the only Indian site included in this listing. Chandigarh is unique as the only city in the world where Le Corbusier’s urban planning was fully realized. The UNESCO-inscribed structures include the High Court, Legislative Assembly, Secretariat, Open Hand Monument, and Tower of Shadows. Additionally, the city features museums, an architecture school, an art school, and various monuments, making the entire town a living testament to Le Corbusier’s vision.

34. Khangchendzonga National Park

Khangchendzonga National Park spans across India’s Sikkim state and Nepal’s eastern border, encompassing the mountain range surrounding Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak at 8,586 meters. In 2016, it became India’s first UNESCO Mixed Heritage Site, recognized for both its cultural and natural significance.

The name Kangchenjunga means "Five Treasures of the Great Snow" in Tibetan, symbolizing its five majestic peaks. Revered as a sacred mountain, it has been worshipped for centuries. The Eastern Himalayan region, including Khangchendzonga, is classified as a biodiversity hotspot, with the park being one of the most ecologically rich areas in India.

35. Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara (Nalanda University), Bihar

Nalanda Mahavihara (Nalanda University), located in Bihar, eastern India, is one of the world’s oldest universities, established in the 5th century. It was founded as a Buddhist learning center, where scholars from across Asia, including the famous Chinese monk Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang), came to study. At its peak, Nalanda had over 10,000 students and covered subjects such as Buddhism, Brahmanism, philosophy, and astronomy.

In the 12th century, Islamic invasions led to the destruction of the university, with many buildings burned and manuscripts lost. The ruins, spread across a vast area, contain the remains of 11 monasteries and 14 temples, offering a glimpse into its once-glorious past. The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.

◎ Complete List of India’s 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

India’s UNESCO sites encompass a diverse range of historical monuments, natural landscapes, and unique architectural wonders. Among them, the Taj Mahal is a must-visit, consistently ranking as one of the world's most breathtaking landmarks.

For travelers, an organized tour that efficiently covers multiple UNESCO sites is a recommended option for an unforgettable experience.