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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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