Incredible India’s UNESCO Gems: A Traveler’s Delight

A stunning and diverse nation, India is well-known for its rich cultural legacy, stunning architectural treasures, and intriguing landscapes. It is so understandable why it has so many breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage sites dispersed across many states and union territories. The Taj Mahal, Sun Temple, Qutub Minar, and Ajanta-Ellora Caves are just a few of the popular cultural and natural monuments in the nation that are included as UNESCO World Heritage monuments. There are a total of 42 UNESCO Heritage Sites as of September, 2023.

1. Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves, located in Maharashtra, are a remarkable treasure trove of Buddhist rock-cut cave monuments. These caves are renowned for their richly decorated paintings and frescoes, reminiscent of the art found at Sigiriya. They offer a fascinating glimpse into India's ancient Buddhist heritage and artistic prowess.

• Location: Near Jalgaon, Aurangabad district, Maharashtra

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays

Time Required: 3-4 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 40

• Foreigners: INR 60

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 40

  Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

2. Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves, also in Maharashtra, are a testament to India's rock-cut architectural marvels. These caves house a harmonious blend of Jain and Hindu temples and monasteries, carved meticulously out of the hills. The site showcases the artistic and religious diversity of ancient India.

• Location: Ellora Cave Road, Ellora, Maharashtra

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays

Time Required: 3-4 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 40

• Foreigners: INR 600

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 40

• Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

3. Agra Fort

Agra Fort, situated in Uttar Pradesh, stands as a symbol of the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. This monumental structure is steeped in history and represents a significant era in India's past. Its architectural splendor and historical significance make it a must-visit destination.

• Location: Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: Sunrise to Sunset or 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 2-3 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 40

• Foreigners: INR 550

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 40

• Free for children below 15 years of age

4. Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, also in Uttar Pradesh, needs no introduction. This world-famous mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, was built by King Shahjahan in memory of his beloved wife, Begum Mumtaz Mahal. It is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and an enduring symbol of love.

• Location: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: From 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset; closed on Fridays

Time Required: 2 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 50

• Foreigners: INR 1100

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 540

• Additional INR 200 for the mausoleum

• Free for children below 15 years of age

5. Sun Temple

Located in Odisha, the Sun Temple is celebrated for its traditional Kalinga architecture. This ancient marvel is dedicated to the sun god and is known for its intricate carvings and spiritual significance.

• Location: Konark, Puri District, Odisha

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 2-3 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 40

• Foreigners: INR 600

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 40

• Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

6. Mahabalipuram Monuments

The Mahabalipuram Monuments, in Tamil Nadu, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the Pallava Dynasty. The site boasts the Mahabalipuram Largest Open Air Rock Relief, mandapas, and chariot temples, all showcasing intricate artistry.

• Location: Fisherman Colony, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu (58 km from Chennai)

• Best Time to Visit: November to March

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 3-4 hours

Entry Fee for all Monuments (per person):

• Indians: INR 40

• Foreigners: INR 600

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 40

• Free for children below 15 years of age

7. Kaziranga National Park

In Assam, Kaziranga National Park is home to two-thirds of the world's great one-horned rhinoceroses. It is also known for its high tiger population, wild water buffaloes, elephants, and its recognition as an Important Bird Area.

• Location: Golaghat and Nagaon districts, Assam

• Best Time to Visit: November to April

• Timings: 24×7

Time Required: 1-2 days

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 100

• Foreigners: INR 650

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 100

• Extra charges for elephant safari and jeep safari

8. Keoladeo National Park

Keoladeo National Park, also called Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a paradise for ornithologists. Located in Rajasthan, it is a man-made wetland and a hotspot for birdwatching, with migratory Siberian cranes being a major attraction.

• Location: Bharatpur, Rajasthan

Best Time to Visit: August to February

Timings:

• Summer: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Winter: 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM

• Bird Safari Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

• The national park is closed from June 15 to September 15

Time Required: 4-5 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 50

• Foreigners: INR 400

• Extra charges for rickshaws, tongas and boats. Private vehicles are strictly prohibited inside the sanctuary

9. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam is a multi-faceted treasure. As a Project Tiger Reserve, Biosphere Reserve, and Elephant Reserve, it safeguards diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive Bengal tiger.

• Location: Manas Road, Barangabari Gyati Village, Baksa District, Gobardhana, Assam

• Best Time to Visit: November to April

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 1 day

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 50 (half day), INR 200 (full day)

• Foreigners: INR 500 (half day), INR 2000 (full day)

• Extra charges for gypsy safari, photography and videography

10. Churches and Convents of Goa

The Churches and Convents of Goa represent the Rome of the Orient, known for their Manueline, Mannerist, and Baroque art forms. They also hold the distinction of hosting the first Latin Rite Mass in Asia.

• Location: Old Goa

• Best Time to Visit: November to February

• Timings: 24×7

• Time Required: 1-2 days

• Entry Fee: Free

11. Monuments of Khajuraho

The Monuments of Khajuraho, located in Madhya Pradesh, are a group of remarkable Jain and Hindu temples. These temples are famous for their exquisite Nagara-style symbolism and intricate erotic sculptures, reflecting the cultural and artistic richness of ancient India.

• Location: Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: Sunrise to Sunset; 7 days a week

Time Required: 4-5 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 40

• Foreigners: INR 600

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 40

• Free entry for children below 15 years of age

• Extra charges for museums and light and sound show

12. Monuments of Hampi

Hampi, the prosperous kingdom of Vijayanagara, lies in Karnataka. The ruins at Hampi depict the fine Dravidian style of art and architecture. The Virupaksha Temple stands as a testament to the site's historical and architectural significance.

• Location: Vijayanagar district, Karnataka

• Best Time to Visit: October to February

• Time Required: 2 days

13. Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri, located in Uttar Pradesh, is a historical masterpiece featuring a complex of four main monuments. The Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, Diwane-Khas, and Diwan-e-Aam showcase the architectural splendor of the Mughal era.

• Location: 37 km from Agra, Uttar Pradesh

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: Sunrise to Sunset; 7 days a week

Time Required: 1 day

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 50

• Foreigners: INR 610

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 50

14. Elephanta Caves

Situated on an island in the Arabian Sea, the Elephanta Caves are famous for their Buddhist and Hindu cave temples. These caves, carved into basal rock, house impressive Shiva temples and represent a fusion of spirituality and artistry.

• Location: Gharapuri, Maharashtra

• Best Time to Visit: November to March

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays

Time Required: 4-5 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 40

• Foreigners: INR 250

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 40

• Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

15. Great Living Chola Temples

The Great Living Chola Temples, located in Tamil Nadu, are renowned for their exceptional Chola architecture, sculpture, painting, and bronze casting. These temples stand as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Chola dynasty.

• Location: Tamil Nadu

  • Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur: Membalam Road, Balaganapathy Nagar

  • Brihadisvara Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram: Jayankondam

  • Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram: Gurunathan Pillai Road, Kumbakonam

• Best Time to Visit: November to March

• Timings:

  • Thanjavur temple: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM; Monday-Sunday

  • Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM; Monday-Sunday

  • Darasuram temple: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM; Monday-Sunday

• Time Required: 1-2 days

• Entry Fee: Free entry

16. Pattadakal Monuments

Pattadakal, in Karnataka, is celebrated for its Chalukya style of architecture, which blends Nagara and Dravidian styles. The site is home to numerous temples, each a masterpiece of intricate carvings and historical significance.

• Location: Bagalkot district, Karnataka

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Time Required: 2-3 days

17. Sundarbans National Park

The Sundarbans National Park, situated in West Bengal, is a unique biosphere reserve and the largest estuarine mangrove forest in the world. It is known for its Bengal tigers, salt-water crocodiles, and diverse ecosystem.

• Location: 24 Parganas district, West Bengal

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

  Timings:

  • Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

  • Saturday: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

  • Closed on Sundays

• Time Required: 1-2 days

  Entry Fee (per person):

  • Indians: INR 60

  • Foreigners: INR 200

  • Extra charges for a boat ride, camera and guide

  

18. Nanda Devi & Valley of Flowers National Park

Nanda Devi & Valley of Flowers National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is a haven for biodiversity enthusiasts. It houses a wide range of fauna and flora, including snow leopards, Asiatic black bears, and vibrant alpine meadows.

• Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand

• Best Time to Visit: May to October

• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 1-2 days

Entry Fee (per person for 3 days):

• Nanda Devi National Park:

• Indians: INR 50

• Foreigners: INR 150

• Valley of Flowers:

• Indians: INR 150

• Foreigners: INR 600

19. Monuments of Buddha

The Monuments of Buddha, in Madhya Pradesh, are renowned for their monolithic pillars, palaces, monasteries, and temples. These structures exemplify Mauryan architecture and feature the famous "Ye Dharma Hetu" inscriptions.

• Location: Sanchi town, Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh

• Best Time to Visit: November to March

• Timings: 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 3-4 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 40

• Foreigners: INR 600

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 40

• Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

20. Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun's Tomb, in Delhi, serves as a precursor to the Taj Mahal, showcasing splendid Mughal architecture. The complex includes the tomb, a pavilion, water channels, and a bath, all reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal era.

• Location: Mathura Road, Opposite Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, New Delhi

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 1-2 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 30

• Foreigners: INR 500

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 30

• Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

21. Qutub Minar and its Monuments

Qutub Minar and its associated monuments, located in Delhi, are a historical ensemble comprising the iconic Qutub Minar, Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, Qubbat-ul-Islam Mosque, Tomb of Iltumish, and the renowned Iron Pillar.

• Location: Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM; 7 days a week (Qutub Minar)

Time Required: 2-3 hours

Entry Fee per person (Qutub Minar):

• Indians: INR 30

• Foreigners: INR 500

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 30

• Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

22. Mountain Railways of Darjeeling, Kalka Shimla & Nilgiri

The Mountain Railways of Darjeeling, Kalka Shimla, and Nilgiri, located in various states, offer a nostalgic journey through picturesque landscapes. These historic railways are a testament to engineering marvels and provide an enchanting way to explore India's hill stations.

Ticket Prices: Varies to each route.

23. Mahabodhi Temple

The Mahabodhi Temple, situated in Bihar, holds immense religious significance for Buddhists worldwide. It is the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, making Bodh Gaya a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

• Location: Bodh Gaya, Bihar

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM; 7 days a week

• Time Required: 2-3 hours

• Entry Fee: Free entry

24. Bhimbetka

Bhimbetka, located in Madhya Pradesh, is famous for its rock paintings found within natural rock shelters. These ancient artworks provide valuable insights into early human civilization and are considered Stone Age inscriptions.

• Location: Raisen District, Madhya Pradesh (45 km from Bhopal)

• Best Time to Visit: October to April

• Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 2 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 30

• Foreigners: INR 500

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 30

• Free entry for children up to 15 years of age

25. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, situated in Maharashtra, is an architectural masterpiece that served as the central headquarters for Indian Railways. Its intricate Gothic-style architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit landmark.

• Location: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 24×7

• Time Required: Less than 1 hour

• Entry Fee: Free

26. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

The Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park in Gujarat is a unique site that preserves an Islamic pre-Mughal city. It also features ancient Chalcolithic Indian sites, offering a glimpse into diverse historical eras.

• Location: Panchmahal district, Gujarat

• Best Time to Visit: October to February

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 4-5 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 35

• Foreigners: INR 550

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 35

27. Red Fort

The Red Fort, located in Delhi, is an iconic symbol of India's history. This remarkable fortress showcases a fusion of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles and includes notable structures like the Moti Masjid.

• Location: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: Sunrise to Sunset (closed on Mondays)

Time Required: 2-3 hours

Entry Fee per person:

• Indians: INR 90

• Foreigners: INR 950

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 90

• Light and sound show: 6 PM onwards in Hindi and English

Weekdays:

• Adults: INR 60

• Children: INR 20

Weekends:

• Adults: INR 80

• Children: INR 30

28. Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar, situated in Rajasthan, is famous for its architectural astronomical instruments. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, it is the largest observatory of its kind and a testament to India's scientific heritage.

• Location: Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Jaipur, Rajasthan

• Best Time to Visit: September to March

• Timings: 9 AM to 4:30 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 1-2 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 50

• Foreigners: INR 200

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 50

• Indian Students: INR 15

• Foreign Students: INR 100

29. The Western Ghats

The Western Ghats, often referred to as the Sahyadri Mountains, are among the world's ten "hottest biodiversity hotspots." This natural wonder includes numerous national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and reserve forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

• Location: Western coast of India

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

30. Hill Forts

The Hill Forts of Rajasthan showcase unique Rajput military defense architecture. These majestic forts, including Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore Fort, Gagron Fort, Amber Fort, and Jaisalmer Fort, are historical marvels.

• Best time to visit: October to December

• Timings: Opening and closing time varies for each fort

• Time required: 1 day

• Entr fee: Entry fee varies for each fort

31. Rani Ki Vav

Rani Ki Vav, located in Gujarat, is a stunning example of ancient Indian architecture, constructed during the Solanki dynasty. This stepwell's intricate designs and sculptures make it an architectural masterpiece.

• Location: Mohan Nagar Society, Patan, Gujarat

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

Time Required: 1-2 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 25

• Foreigners: INR 300

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 25

• Free for children up to 15 years of age

32. Great Himalayan National Park

The Great Himalayan National Park, nestled in Himachal Pradesh, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Home to a rich diversity of fauna and flora, including the elusive snow leopard, it forms part of the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot.

• Location: Forest Office Road, Shamshi, Himachal Pradesh

• Best Time to Visit: March to November

• Timings: 24×7

Time Required: 3-4 hours

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 50

• Foreigners: INR 200

• Indian Students: INR 30

• Foreign Students: INR 100

• Extra charges for camping

33. Nalanda

Nalanda, in Bihar, is a site of immense historical and academic significance. It was a center of learning and a renowned Buddhist monastery from the 3rd century BCE to the 13th century CE, attracting scholars from across the world.

• Location: Nalanda district, Bihar

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Fridays

Time Required: 1 hour

Entry Fee (per person):

• Indians: INR 15

• Foreigners: INR 200

• Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries: INR 15

• Nalanda Museum Fee: INR 15

• Free for children up to 15 years of age

34. Khangchendzonga National Park

Khangchendzonga National Park, in Sikkim, is a wilderness paradise. This park is famous for its unique fauna and flora, with occasional sightings of the elusive snow leopard, making it a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

• Location: North Sikkim

• Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to mid-October

• Timings: 24 hours (Closed on Sundays)

Time Required: 2-3 day

Entry Fee (per person) for the first 7 days:

• Indians: INR 350

• Foreigners: INR 560

• Students: INR 80

• Extra charges for additional days, tent, guide and camera

35. Architectural Work of Le Corbusier (Capitol Complex)

The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, specifically the Capitol Complex in Chandigarh, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding contribution to the Modern Movement in architecture.

• Location: Sector 1, Chandigarh

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM; 7 days a week

• Time Required: 2-3 hours

• Entry Fee: Free entry

36. The Historic City

The Historic City of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is a walled city along the Sabarmati River. It is celebrated for its harmonious coexistence of Hinduism, Islam, and Jainism over centuries.

• Location: Gujarat

• Best Time to Visit: November to February

• Time Required: 1-2 days

37. Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles

Mumbai's Fort Area houses a collection of 94 buildings with great cultural importance. These buildings represent Victorian Gothic and Art Deco architectural styles and are a testament to the city's rich heritage.

• Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

• Best Time to Visit: November to March

• Timings: 24×7

• Time Required: 1-2 days

• Entry Fee: Not applicable

38. The Pink City

Jaipur, known as the Pink City, is the capital of Rajasthan. It is a city of majestic forts, opulent palaces, intricate temples, and vibrant local handicrafts that offer a delightful blend of history and culture.

• Location: Rajasthan

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 24×7

• Time Required: 2-3 days

• Entry Fee: Not applicable

39. Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple

The Ramappa Temple, located in Telangana, is estimated to be 800 to 900 years old. This architectural marvel is known for its lightweight porous bricks, often called "floating bricks."

• Location: Ramappa, Mulugu, Telangana

• Best Time to Visit: September to March

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

• Time Required: 1-2 hours

• Entry Fee: Free entry

40. Dholavira

Dholavira, in Gujarat's Kutch district, is a prominent archaeological site from the Indus Valley Civilization. It provides valuable insights into the advanced urban planning and water management of the ancient civilization.

• Location: Khadirbet, Kutch District, Gujarat

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week

• Time Required: 2-3 hours

• Entry Fee (per person): INR 5

41. Santiniketan

Santiniketan, founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, is a cultural and educational hub in Bengal's Birbhum district. Its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrates its enduring legacy.

• State: West Bengal

• Tourist Places in Shantiniketan: Rabindra Bhavana, Cheena Bhavana, Chhatimtala, Kala Bhavana (Nandan Museum), Singha Sadan

• Best Time to Visit Shantiniketan: October to February

42. Hoysala Temples

The Hoysala Temples, specifically the temples of Belur, Halebid, and Somanathapura in Karnataka, are celebrated for their intricate architecture and artistic splendor. These temples are a testament to the Hoysala dynasty's artistic prowess.

• Timings: 7:30AM to 5:30PM

• Fee: No Entry Fee

• Distance from near by city: 50.8 kilometers from Sakleshpur.

• Trip duration (including travel in hours): 1 - 2 hours

These sites, encompassing ancient temples, historic forts, and pristine natural reserves, are not just static monuments but living embodiments of India's past and present. They beckon travelers to immerse themselves in a vibrant tapestry of traditions, history, and the enduring spirit of a nation that continues to captivate the world. In visiting these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, travelers embark on a journey of discovery, where every stone has a story, every carving a message, and every landscape a testament to India's extraordinary diversity. It's an invitation to witness the magnificence of human achievement and the wonders of the natural world, all in one incredible country.