Event Summary

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India Latest List and UPSC Notes 2025-2026

Dec 27, 03:29 PM

Written by Suvojit Sutradhar

Hello Aspirants,
If you follow the recent trends of competitive exams, you will notice that UNESCO World Heritage Sites are asked regularly in UPSC Prelims, SSC, WBCS, State PSCs, NDA, CDS, and even in interviews or personality tests . Questions are asked not only on names but also on type (Cultural/Natural/Mixed), year of inscription, and location on map.
To make this topic easy and exam-ready, ExamYog brings here a 2025 updated guide on UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India with list, classification, and quick and Static notes for UPSC, SSC, WBCS and Other State PSCs.

 

What is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

A World Heritage Site is a place of outstanding universal value recognized by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) under the World Heritage Convention. UNESCO Headquarter located in Paris, France and established in 1972. These sites can be Cultural, Natural, or Mixed (both cultural and natural value).

 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India (2025)

India ranks sixth in the World and Second in Asia with total number of 44 World Heritage sites.
👉 Total Sites: 44

  • Cultural Sites: 36
  • Natural Sites: 7
  • Mixed Sites: 1

 

India’s 44th UNESCO Heritage Site

India’s 44th UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Maratha Military Landscapes of India, located in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. Recognized for its cultural value in 2025. It is a network of total 12 historic forts and associated with Maratha Empire especially Chhatrapati Shibaji Maharaj's military strategy, 11 in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu.

  • Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu, known as the “Troy of the East,” is part of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India and is built across three hillocks.

 

India’s 43rd UNESCO Heritage Site

India’s 43rd UNESCO World Heritage Site is Moidams – The Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty, Often called the “Pyramids of Assam” because of their mound-shaped structure, located at Charaideo in Assam. Recognized for its cultural value in 2024.

 

India’s 42nd UNESCO Heritage Site

India’s 42nd UNESCO World Heritage Site is Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala, which includes the Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathpura in Karnataka. Recognized for its cultural value in 2023. Known for intricate carvings, star-shaped platforms, and detailed sculptures. Represents the peak of Hoysala temple architecture (12th–13th century)

 

India’s 41st UNESCO Heritage Site

**India’s 41st UNESCO World Heritage Site is Santiniketan, located in Birbhum district, West Bengal. Recognized for its cultural value in 2023. It represents Tagore’s vision of education based on harmony with nature. Promotes open-air learning, art, culture, and global humanism.

 

(UPSC CSE Prelims 2024)

Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:

1. Shantiniketan
2. Rani-ki-Vav
3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas
4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya

How Many of the above properties were included in 2023 ?

(a) Only One
(b) Only Two
(C) Only Three
(d) All Four

Correct Answer: (b)

 

📌 Latest List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India (2025-2026)

 

UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites in India include world-famous monuments such as the Agra Fort, Taj Mahal, the Ajanta, Elephanta, and Ellora Caves, and the Sun Temple at Konark etc. These sites do value India’s rich historical background, architectural excellence, artistic traditions, and cultural diversity, developed over several centuries.

 

Recognized by UNESCO, these cultural sites represent different phases of Indian civilization, including Ancient, Medieval, and Early Modern periods. They are among the most frequently asked topics in UPSC, SSC, WBCS, State PSCs, NDA, CDS, and other competitive exams, especially in Art and Culture sections.

 

Below is a revised and updated table outlining the key facts of India’s UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites (as of December 2025), including their location, year of inscription, and exam relevance, to help aspirants revise quickly and effectively.

 

The List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India is provided below, categorized into three segments:

 

I. Cultural World Heritage Sites (36)

 

II. Natural World Heritage Sites (7)

 

III. Mixed World Heritage Sites (1)

 

🌏 I. Cultural World Heritage Sites (36)

 

 

Sl. No World Heritage Site Location Inscription Year
1 Agra Fort Uttar Pradesh 1983
2 Taj Mahal Uttar Pradesh 1983
3 Ajanta Caves Maharashtra 1983
4 Ellora Caves Maharashtra 1983
5 Sun Temple, Konark Odisha 1984
6 Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram Tamil Nadu 1984
7 Group of Monuments at Hampi Karnataka 1986
8 Khajuraho Group of Monuments Madhya Pradesh 1986
9 Fatehpur Sikri Uttar Pradesh 1986
10 Churches and Convents of Goa Goa 1986
11 Great Living Chola Temples Tamil Nadu 1987
12 Group of Monuments at Pattadakal Karnataka 1987
13 Elephanta Caves Maharashtra 1987
14 Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi Madhya Pradesh 1989
15 Humayun’s Tomb Delhi 1993
16 Qutb Minar and its Monuments Delhi 1993
17 Mountain Railways of Darjeeling, Nilgiri and Kalka Shimla West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh 1999 / 2005 / 2008
18 Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya Bihar 2002
19 Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka Madhya Pradesh 2003
20 Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Maharashtra 2004
21 Champaner–Pavagadh Archaeological Park Gujarat 2004
22 Red Fort Complex Delhi 2007
23 Jantar Mantar, Jaipur Rajasthan 2010
24 Hill Forts of Rajasthan Rajasthan 2013
25 Rani-ki-Vav Gujarat 2014
26 Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara Bihar 2016
27 Architectural Work of Le Corbusier Chandigarh 2016
28 Historic City of Ahmedabad Gujarat 2017
29 Victorian Gothic & Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai Maharashtra 2018
30 Jaipur City Rajasthan 2019
31 Dholavira: A Harappan City Gujarat 2021
32 Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple Telangana 2021
33 Santiniketan West Bengal 2023
34 Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas Karnataka 2023
35 Moidams – The Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty Assam 2024
36 Maratha Military Landscapes of India Maharashtra & Tamil Nadu 2025

 

🌏 II. Natural World Heritage Sites (7)

 

 

Sl. No World Heritage Site Location Inscription Year
37 Keoladeo National Park Rajasthan 1985
38 Kaziranga National Park Assam 1985
39 Manas Wildlife Sanctuary Assam 1985
40 Sundarbans National Park West Bengal 1987
41 Nanda Devi & Valley of Flowers National Parks Uttarakhand 1988 / 2005
42 Western Ghats Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu 2012
43 Great Himalayan National Park Himachal Pradesh 2014

 

🌏 III. Mixed World Heritage Site (1)

 

 

Sl. No World Heritage Site Location Inscription Year
44 Khangchendzonga National Park Sikkim 2016

 

📚 Key Facts About Indian Heritage Sites (UNESCO)

 

1. Agra Fort

  • Agra Fort is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1983.
  • It was built mainly by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565 using red sandstone.
  • The fort is located on the right bank of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh.
  • Jahangir PalaceKhas Mahal, and Diwan-i-Khas are some important structures located within the Agra Fort.
  • Shah Jahan was imprisoned here by Aurangzeb and viewed the Taj Mahal from Musamman Burj.

 

2. Taj Mahal

  • Taj Mahal is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1983.
  • It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
  • The monument is located on the right bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
  • The Taj Mahal is considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, made primarily of white marble, designed by Ustad Ahmad Lahori.

 

3. Ellora Caves

  • Ellora Caves are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1983 and comprise of 34 Caves.
  • The complex represents three religions togetherBuddhism (Caves 1-12), Hinduism (Caves 13-19), and Jainism (Caves 20-34) — carved between the 5th and 10th centuries.
  • Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is the largest monolithic rock-cut temple in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Ellora caves are located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra and showcase advanced rock-cut architecture.

 

4. Ajanta Caves

  • Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1983.
  • These caves are famous for Buddhist rock-cut caves dating from the 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE.
  • Ajanta is best known for its ancient wall paintings and frescoes, depicting the Jataka tales.
  • The caves are located in Maharashtra and were rediscovered by British officer John Smith in 1819.

 

5. Sun Temple, Konark

  • Sun Temple, Konark is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1984.
  • It was built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva-I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
  • The temple is designed as a Gigantic stone chariot of the Sun God (Surya) with 24 wheels and 7 horses.
  • Located on the shores of Bay of Bengal in Odisha, it is an outstanding example of Kalinga style temple architecture.

 

6. The Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram

  • The Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1984.
  • Built mainly during the 7th–8th centuries under the Pallava dynasty, especially Narasimhavarman I.
  • Famous for rock-cut temples, cave sanctuaries, monolithic rathas, and the relief “Descent of the Ganges (Arjuna’s Penance)”.
  • Located on the Coromandel Coast of Tamil Nadu, it represents the early phase of Dravidian temple architecture.

 

7. Group of Monuments at Hampi

  • The Group of Monuments at Hampi is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1986.
  • Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, flourishing between the 14th and 16th centuries.
  • It is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka and well known for Indo-Islamic style monuments.
  • The site is known for landmarks like Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and the Stone Chariot.

 

8. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments

  • The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1986.
  • This site comprises with 23 temples belonging to two religions, such as Hinduism and Jainism.
  • Built mainly between the 10th and 11th centuries by the Chandela dynasty.
  • Famous for its Nagara-style temples and intricate stone sculptures, including themes of daily life, devotion, and human emotions.
  • Located in Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho represents the peak of Medieval Indian temple art.

 

9. Fatehpur Sikri

  • Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1986.
  • It was founded by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century as his imperial capital.
  • Fatehpur Sikri (City of Victory) is located near Agra in Uttar Pradesh and is built mainly using Red sandstone.
  • Important structures include Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and Panch Mahal, reflecting a blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles.

 

10. Churches and Convents of Goa

  • Churches and Convents of Goa are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1986.
  • They represent Portuguese colonial architecture and the spread of Christianity in Asia.
  • Important monuments include the Basilica of Bom Jesus (housing the relics of St. Francis Xavier) and Sé Cathedral.
  • Located in Old Goa, these structures blend European architectural styles with Indian influences

 

11. Great Living Chola Temples

  • Great Living Chola Temples are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1987.
  • They were built by the Chola dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries.
  • The group includes Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur), Brihadeeswarar Temple (Gangaikondacholapuram), and Airavatesvara Temple (Darasuram).
  • These temples are masterpieces of Dravidian architecture, noted for massive vimanas, stone sculptures, and temple planning.

 

12. Group of Monuments at Pattadakal

  • The Group of Monuments at Pattadakal is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1987.
  • Pattadakal served as the coronation site of Chalukya kings during the 7th–8th centuries.
  • The site uniquely showcases a fusion of Nagara (North Indian) and Dravidian (South Indian) architectural styles.
  • Located on the banks of the Malaprabha River in Karnataka, it includes temples like Virupaksha and Mallikarjuna.

 

13. Elephanta Caves

  • Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1987.
  • Located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour, Maharashtra.
  • The caves are famous for rock-cut sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva, especially the Trimurti (Maheshmurti) sculpture.
  • These caves date mainly to the 5th–6th centuries CE and represent early Hindu cave architecture.

 

14. Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi

  • Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1989.
  • The site is famous for the Great Stupa, originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BCE.
  • Sanchi is known for its beautifully carved Toranas (gateways) depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha and Jataka tales.
  • Located in Madhya Pradesh, it is one of the oldest surviving Buddhist sites in India.

 

15. Humayun’s Tomb

  • Humayun’s Tomb is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1993.
  • It was built in 1570 by Empress Haji Begum, the widow of Mughal Emperor Humayun.
  • The monument is considered the first garden-tomb (Charbagh) in India.
  • Located in Delhi, it inspired later Mughal architecture (architectural predecessor of the Taj Mahal.), including the Taj Mahal.

 

16. Qutb Minar and its Monuments

  • Qutb Minar and its Monuments are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1993.
  • Qutb Minar, about 73 m (72.5 m) high, was started by Qutbuddin Aibak and completed by Iltutmish of Delhi Sultanate.
  • The complex includes Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, one of the earliest mosques in India, and the Iron Pillar.
  • Located in Delhi, it represents the early Indo-Islamic architectural style.

 

17. Mountain Railways of Darjeeling, Nilgiri and Kalka Shimla

  • The Mountain Railways of India are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, first inscribed in 1999 (Nilgiri added in 2005, Kalka–Shimla in 2008).
  • It includes the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (West Bengal), Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Tamil Nadu), and Kalka–Shimla Railway (Himachal Pradesh).
  • These railways showcase innovative engineering adapted to steep gradients and mountainous terrain, using loops, zig-zags, and tunnels.
  • They played a key role in colonial-era hill connectivity and remain operational heritage railways.

 

18. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya

  • Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2002.
  • Bodh Gaya marks the place where Gautama Buddha attained Enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
  • The main temple dates largely to the 5th–6th centuries CE, with later restorations.
  • Located in Bihar, it is one of the four most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

 

19. Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka

  • Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2003.
  • Located in Madhya Pradesh, they lie in the foothills of the Vindhya Range.
  • The site contains prehistoric cave paintings dating from the Paleolithic to Medieval periods.
  • Bhimbetka provides important evidence of early human life and cultural evolution in the Indian subcontinent.

 

20. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2004.
  • It was originally known as Victoria Terminus and was built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee.
  • Located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, it blends Victorian Gothic Revival architecture with Indian elements.
  • CST is one of India’s busiest railway stations and a symbol of colonial-era railway heritage.

 

21. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

  • Champaner–Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2004.
  • Located in Gujarat, it includes a Pre-Mughal Islamic city and the Pavagadh hill fortress.
  • The site features a unique mixture of Hindu and Islamic architecture, including mosques, temples, stepwells, and palaces.
  • It was the capital of Sultan Mahmud Begada of the Gujarat Sultanate in the 15th century.

 

22. Red Fort Complex

  • Red Fort Complex is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2007.
  • It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 and served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors.
  • Located in Delhi, the fort is constructed mainly of red sandstone so that named as Red Fort Complex and reflects Mughal architectural excellence.
  • The Prime Minister hoists the National Flag here on Independence Day every year.

 

23. The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

  • Jantar Mantar, Jaipur is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2010.
  • It was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the early 18th century.
  • The site houses the world’s largest stone sundial (Samrat Yantra) used for precise astronomical observations.
  • Located in Jaipur in Rajasthan, it reflects India’s advanced knowledge of astronomy and timekeeping.

 

24. Hill Forts of Rajasthan

  • Hill Forts of Rajasthan are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2013.
  • This serial site includes six forts: i. Chittorgarh, ii. Kumbhalgarh, iii. Ranthambore, iv. Gagron, v. Amber, and vi. Jaisalmer.
  • The forts illustrate Rajput military architecture adapted to hill and desert landscapes.
  • Located in Rajasthan, they reflect the political power, defence systems, and cultural traditions of Rajput kingdoms.

 

25. Rani-ki-Vav

  • Rani-ki-Vav is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2014.
  • It is an 11th-century stepwell built by Queen Udayamati in memory of King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty.
  • Located at Patan in Gujarat, it is constructed along the Saraswati riverbed.
  • The stepwell is famous for its seven levels of intricately carved sculptures, showcasing the peak of Maru-Gurjara architectural style.

 

26. Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara

  • Nalanda Mahavihara is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2016.
  • It was one of the world’s oldest residential universities, flourishing from the 5th to 12th centuries CE.
  • Located in Bihar, Nalanda was a major centre of learning for Buddhism, Philosophy, Mathematics, Astronomy, and Medicine.
  • The university attracted scholars from China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, and Southeast Asia, including Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang).

 

27. The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier

  • The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2016.
  • In India, it is represented mainly by the Capitol Complex, Chandigarh, including the High Court, Secretariat, and Legislative Assembly.
  • These works reflect Modernist architecture, emphasising functionality, geometric forms, and raw concrete (brutalism).
  • The site symbolises post-independence India’s urban planning vision and international architectural influence.

 

28. Historic City of Ahmadabad

  • Historic City of Ahmedabad is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2017.
  • Founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in 1411 AD , it was an important centre of trade and culture in western India.
  • The city is known for its unique urban fabric of pols (traditional neighbourhoods), stepwells, and wooden houses.
  • Located in Gujarat, it reflects a blend of Islamic, Hindu, and Jain architectural traditions.

 

29. The Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai

  • The Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai are a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2018.
  • The site showcases two architectural phases — 19th-century Victorian Gothic and early 20th-century Art Deco buildings.
  • Located around the Oval Maidan, it includes landmarks like the Bombay High Court and Eros Cinema.
  • It reflects Mumbai’s transformation into a modern global city during the colonial and inter-war periods.

 

30. Jaipur City

  • Jaipur City is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2019.
  • Founded in 1727 by the Rajput rulerMaharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, it is one of India’s earliest planned cities.
  • Known as the Pink City, Jaipur follows Vastu Shastra principles with a grid-based urban layout.
  • Key landmarks include City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar, reflecting Rajput architecture.

 

31. Dholavira: a Harappan City

  • **Dholavira is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2021.
  • It is one of the largest and best-preserved sites of the Indus Valley (Harappan) Civilization, dated to 3000–1500 BCE.
  • Located on Khadir Island in the Rann of Kutch (Gujarat), the city shows advanced Urban planning and Water management.
  • Unique features include step reservoirs, massive fortifications, and the Dholavira signboard with Indus script.

 

32. Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple

  • Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2021.
  • It was built in the 13th century during the reign of Kakatiya ruler Ganapati Deva, with Ramappa as the chief architect.
  • Located at Palampet in Telangana, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • It is famous for its sandbox foundation technique and lightweight floating bricks, a unique feature in Indian temple architecture.

 

33. Santiniketan

  • Santiniketan is the India's 41st UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2023.
  • It was founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1901 and developed as a centre of open-air education and cultural exchange.
  • Santiniketan is the home of Visva Bharati University, reflecting Tagore’s vision of humanism and harmony with nature.
  • Located in Birbhum district of West Bengal, it is closely linked with India’s modern cultural renaissance.

 

34. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas

  • Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas is the India's 42nd UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2023
  • It includes the Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathpura in Karnataka.
  • These temples were built between the 12th and 13th centuries under the Hoysala dynasty.
  • They are famous for soapstone architecture, star-shaped platforms, and highly intricate sculptures, representing the peak of Hoysala art.

 

35. Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty

  • Moidams are the India's 43rd UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2024.
  • Located at Charaideo in Assam, they are the royal burial mounds of the Ahom kings (13th–19th centuries).
  • Often called the “Pyramids of Assam”, Moidams reflect Tai-Ahom funerary traditions blended with local practices.
  • The site is important for understanding Ahom political power, ancestor worship, and landscape-based architecture.

 

36. Maratha Military Landscapes of India

  • Maratha Military Landscapes of India is the India's 44th UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2025.
  • It is a serial nomination comprising 12 strategically designed forts across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
    Maharashtra (11 sites): Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, and Sindhudurg
    Tamil Nadu (1 site): Gingee Fort
  • The site highlights innovative military planning adapted to geography, closely associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

 

37. Keoladeo National Park

  • Keoladeo National Park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1985.
  • Located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, it is a man-made wetland originally developed as a duck-hunting reserve by the princely state.
  • The park is famous for its rich avifaunal diversity, including over 350 species of migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia.
  • It was earlier known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and also protected under the Ramsar Convention.

 

38. Kaziranga National Park

  • Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1985.
  • Located in Assam, it lies along the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River.
  • The park is famous for hosting the world’s largest population of the One-Horned Rhinoceros.
  • It is also a Tiger Reserve and supports high densities of Elephants, Wild Buffalo, and Swamp deer.

 

39. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1985.
  • Located in Assam, it lies along the India–Bhutan border and forms part of the Manas Biosphere Reserve.
  • The sanctuary is known for endangered species like the Golden Langur, Pygmy Hog, Indian Rhinoceros, and Bengal Tiger.
  • It is named after the Manas River, a major tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
  • It is also designated as National Park, Tiger Reserve, Elephant Reserve, Biosphere Reserve, Important Bird Area.

 

40. Sundarbans National Park

  • Sundarbans National Park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1987.
  • Located in West Bengal, it forms part of the largest mangrove forest in the world at the Ganga–Brahmaputra delta.
  • The park is famous for the Royal Bengal Tiger, as well as an important habitat for the Irrawaddy dolphin and Ganges river dolphin.
  • It is crisscrossed by tidal rivers and creeks, making it a key site for coastal biodiversity conservation.

 

41. Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks

  • Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks are a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1988, with an extension in 2005.
  • Located in Uttarakhand, the site lies in the Western Himalayas and forms part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
  • Valley of Flowers is famous for its alpine meadows and endemic floral diversity, while Nanda Devi National Park is known for its rugged mountain ecosystem.
  • The area supports rare species like the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Musk Deer, and Blue Sheep.

 

42. Western Ghats

  • Western Ghats are a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2012.
  • Stretching along India’s west coast, they cover six states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
  • One of the world’s eight hottest biodiversity hotspots, rich in endemic flora and fauna.
  • The Ghats play a crucial role in monsoon regulation, river origins, and ecological balance of peninsular India.

 

43. Great Himalayan National Park

  • Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2014.
  • Located in Himachal Pradesh, it lies in the Western Himalayas and forms part of the Himalayan biodiversity region.
  • The park is known for rare species such as the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Brown Bear, Blue Sheep, and Musk Deer.
  • GHNP is important for the conservation of alpine and temperate forest ecosystems and river catchment areas.

 

44. Khangchendzonga National Park

  • Khangchendzonga National Park is India’s only Mixed UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2016.
  • Located in the middle of Himalayan range in Sikkim, it is named after Mount Khangchendzonga, the 3rd highest peak in the world.
  • The park is important for both Natural biodiversity and Sacred cultural traditions of local communities.
  • It supports rare species like the Snow Leopard, Red Panda, and Himalayan Blue Sheep.

 

 

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are there in India?
India has a total of 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites as of 2025–2026.

 

Which is the latest UNESCO World Heritage Site in India?
Maratha Military Landscapes of India, inscribed in 2025, is the latest UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

How many Cultural World Heritage Sites does India have?
India has 36 Cultural World Heritage Sites, reflecting its rich historical and architectural heritage.

 

Which is the only Mixed World Heritage Site in India?
Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim is India’s only Mixed World Heritage Site.

 

Why are UNESCO World Heritage Sites important for competitive exams?
Questions from UNESCO sites are frequently asked in UPSC, SSC, WBCS, NDA, CDS, and State PSC exams under Art & Culture, Environment, and Static GK.

 

 

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Suvojit Sutradhar

updating soon

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