UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India

UNESCO World Heritage Site is selected carefully, based on the special cultural and historical significance attached to the site. The motive behind it is to encourage a country or a state to identify, protect and conserve its cultural heritage.

Taj Mahal, Agra :

Well-famed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj-Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan at the bank of river Jamuna and in the loving memory of his wife, Mumtaj Mahal. Built in 1653, it is an excellent example of Mughal architecture and one of the most recognised monuments across the world.

Hampi, Karnataka :

Hampi lies within the ruins of the ancient kingdom of Vijayanagar and is a collection of heritage sites that display the Dravidian style of art and architecture. Virupaksha Temple, an important religious centre for the Hindus, holds the most significance. There are several other temples and monuments at Hampi complex.

Sun Temple, Konark :

The 13th-century Sun Temple is situated in Konark and was built around AD 1250 by King Narasimhadeva. What is unique about the temple is that it is shaped like a massive chariot with a stone wheel, pillars, and walls. Six enormous horses lead the chariot. The Sun temple is looked upon to be the largest Brahmin sanctuaries in India and reflects the splendour of the traditional Kalinga architectural style.

Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh :

Sanchi boasts of the Buddhist monuments, which are known to be the oldest stone structures in India. Emperor Ashoka commissioned the making of those structures in 3rd century BC. It is easy to recognise the hemispherical brick structure of the Sanchi Stupa that is based on the relics of Buddha. There are many other structures in Sanchi that hold cultural and historical significance like pillars, temples, monasteries, and palaces.

Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh :

Khajuraho is well-known for those erotic figures and sculptures depicted in Nagara style symbolism. Those stone carvings of human and animals have been aesthetically depicted and represent the rich cultural heritage of India. Most of these monuments and carvings were made around 950 to 1050 CE during the Chandella dynasty.

Bodh Gaya, Bihar :

Bodh Gaya is an important religious centre and is located near Patna. The site holds great significance for the Buddhists as it is believed to be the place where Gautam Buddha achieved enlightenment under the holy Bodhi Tree. It was during the reign of Ashoka the Great that the famous Mahabodhi Temple was made. This is why Bodh Gaya is the holiest pilgrimage spot for the Buddhists.

Red Fort, Delhi :

Emperor Shah Jahan built the Red Fort in New Delhi when he made it his capital. During his time, Delhi was known as Shahjahanabad, and soon the Red Fort became a political hub of the Mughals. It is an excellent example of Mughal art and architecture. However, one can see influences of Timurid, Hindu and Persian styles along with Indo-Islamic styles on the fort. The Red Fort is made of red sandstone and lodges several other structures like Diwan-i-khas, Diwan-i-aam, and private pavilions.

 

And for More Heritage sites you can visit Official sites also...

 1- UNESCO 

2 - Indian Culture GOV.