Our nation is called ‘Incredible India’ for a reason. Travel from North to South and you will see jaw dropping landscapes, hidden gems, architectural marvels, inspiring stories and natural wonders that will leave you mesmerised. Whether you are an art lover, a cultural nerd or an adventure seeker, there are impressive World Heritage Sites in India that you will want to keep coming for more. Some of these sites have cultural and historical significance and will take you back in time. If you wish to explore these, here is a curated list of the top UNESCO world heritage sites in our country that are definitely worth exploring:
1-Taj Mahal in Agra: Counted among the seven wonders of the world, Taj will leave you spell bound with its impressive architecture. It would not be wrong to say that it is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture which was built by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Come here and explore this iconic structure, which today is one of the most visited tourist attractions in India. You will find beautifully carved inscriptions on the walls that are worth marvelling.
2-Red Fort in Delhi: Located in the centre of the capital city, this beautiful monument made with red sandstone is a popular tourist attraction. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and was a political hub during his rule. The fort has many small buildings, like the Diwan-i-Khas and the Diwan-i-aam, which are a perfect example of Mughal art and architecture. The historical landmark is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and is a must-visit for every tourist in Delhi.
3-Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site that is sure to fascinate you is the Khajuraho Group of Monuments. Home to as many as 20 Hindu and Jain temples, this place promises a spiritual journey like no other. If you are someone who has an interest in Indian mythology and want to know more about Khajuraho temple history, you are sure to have an enriching experience exploring the stunning temples here. To visit all the famous temples here, plan a weekend trip and book your accommodation at any of the top hotels in Khajuraho for a great stay.
4- Amer Fort in Rajasthan: This magnificent palace in Jaipur is known for its impressive architecture in which you can see glimpses of Mughal and Rajput styles. It is the newest addition to the list of UNESCO World heritage sites in the country and was added in June 2013 along with five other majestic forts in Rajasthan. It offers stunning views of the beautiful Pink City and is one of the most loved spots for those on a family vacation to the city.
5-Hampi in Karnataka: Once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, this site is spread across an area of over 4,100 hectares and is home to beautiful temples, palaces, and marketplaces. As you explore the ruins of the ancient Vijayanagar Empire, you will find Dravidian architectural style which is quite enthralling. Some of the must visit attractions here include Vittala Temple, Lotus Mahal Complex, Achyutaraya Temple and Anegondi, Krishna temple complex.
Being home to 40 World Heritage Sites, India has the sixth largest number of these sites in the world. Now that you know some of the famous ones, do visit these iconic landmarks of the country and you are sure to have a great time exploring them.
