Indeed, India is a vast country with diverse religions, cultures, and architecture. Being a geographically diverse country, it’s not surprising that you will find 41 UNESCO World Heritage sites in India.
Additionally, Shantiniketan and Hoysala are the latest additions to the UNESCO World Heritage List. If you want to explore the rich culture and heritage of this country, then you need to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. In this article, let’s discover 5 of the most fascinating heritage sites in India.
Must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India:
1. Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves is world famous for its exquisite Buddhist rock-cut architecture. It is one of the first few places to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Most importantly, this place is rich in beautifully carved sculptures, monuments, paintings, and murals. What's more, 31 caves are home to several monasteries. You can also view the marvellous rock-cut designs, statues, and numerous paintings.
- Location: Jalgaon, Aurangabad District, Maharashtra
- Best time to visit: November to March
- Visiting hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (remains closed on Mondays)
- Entry Fee: 10 rupees per person for Indians. 250 rupees per person for foreigners.
2. Ellora caves
Ellora is another marvellous heritage site in India. In this cave, you can view a string of historical monuments that were built between 600-700 CE. Moreover, there are more than a hundred caves in Ellora Caves; however, only 34 caves are accessible. 17 out of these caves belong to Hinduism, 12 to Buddhism, and 5 to Jainism. You will find several statues of elephants, large victory towers, temples, sculptures, and paintings.
- Location: Ellora, Maharashtra
- Best time to visit: June to March
- Visiting hours: From 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (remains closed on Tuesday)
- Entry fee: 30 rupees per person for Indians. 500 rupees per person for foreigners.
3. The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is worldwide famous for being one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Mughal monarch Shah Jahan built this magnificent monument in honour of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This white marble monument is a wonderful blend of Mughal, Persian, and Islamic styles of architecture.
- Location: Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Visiting hours: From 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (remains closed on Friday)
- Entry fee: 50 rupees per person for Indians. 1100 rupees per person for foreigners. 540 rupees for tourists from BIMSTEC and SAARC countries.
4. Agra Fort
Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort of Agra, is an architectural wonder. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built this fort on the banks of the river Yamuna. In this royal residence, there are several palaces. Khas Mahal, Jehangir Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-i-Am, Mumtaz Mahal, and Moti Masjid are a few of the attractions here.
- Location: Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Visiting hours: Open 7 days a week, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Entry fee: 50 rupees per person for Indians. 650 rupees per person for foreigners. 90 rupees for tourists from BIMSTEC and SAARC countries.
5. Konark sun Temple
The Sun Temple, also known as the Black Pagoda, is a glorious World Heritage Site in India. This temple was built in the 13th century and is dedicated to the Hindu Sun God. Besides, the Konark temple is designed as a carved-stone chariot of Lord Surya. Furthermore, seven horses pulling the chariot represent seven days of a week. What’s more? On this heritage site, you can view the great Kalinga-style architecture.
- Location: Puri, Odisha
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Visiting hours: Open 7 days a week, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Entry fee: 40 rupees per person for Indians. 600 rupees per person for foreigners. 40 rupees for tourists from BIMSTEC and SAARC countries.
Apart from these, India is teeming with marvellous heritage sites that are worth visiting. Therefore, if you love to explore historical or heritage sites, then begin your journey with these amazing masterpieces.
