Indian states with the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites

India boasts a vibrant cultural and historical heritage, showcased through its many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ranging from ancient monuments and architectural masterpieces to natural wonders and wildlife sanctuaries, these sites offer a glimpse into the rich and diverse heritage of the country.

Below is a list of states with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.

• Ajanta Caves: ​The Ajanta Caves are rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments dating back to the 2nd century BCE. These ancient caves depict the life of Buddha and various Jataka tales. These caves once housed travelling Buddhist and Jain monks.
  
• Ellora Caves: This is a complex of 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries. Ellora Caves is also where you will find the famous Kailasa Temple.
• Elephanta Caves: These ancient caves are located on Elephanta Island near Mumbai. The caves house rock-cut temples primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (Victoria Terminus): This is one of the most iconic landmarks in Mumbai. This site, built in 1887, remains a functional station today.
• Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai: Buildings like the Bombay High Court and the University of Mumbai make up the site.
• Western Ghats (partially in Maharashtra): A significant portion of the Western Ghats lies in Maharashtra. Here it is called the Sahyadris.

• Group of Monuments at Hampi: Hampi, once the thriving capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, now stands as a site of ancient temples, royal complexes, and remarkable ruins, all nestled within a striking landscape of scattered boulders.
• Group of Monuments at Pattadakal: Pattadakal is famous for its Chalukyan architecture, and features a beautiful blend of northern and southern temple styles.
• Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas: Constructed during the Hoysala Empire, these temples are among the most remarkable in South India. The most renowned of these include the Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, and the Kesava Temple in Somanathapura.
• Western Ghats (Partially in Karnataka): As part of the Western Ghats, this UNESCO natural heritage site is known for its biodiversity and lush greenery.

• Hill Forts of Rajasthan: The site comprises six majestic forts – Chittor Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Amber Fort, Ranthambore Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Gagron Fort.
• Keoladeo National Park: Keoladeo National Park is home to hundreds of bird species, including the rare Siberian crane.
• Jantar Mantar (Jaipur): Jaipur’s Jantar Mantar was built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II. It is an astronomical observatory that houses the world’s largest stone sundial.
• The Jaipur City: Did you know that Jaipur was designed according to Vastu Shastra?
  

• Rani ki Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell): Rani ki Vav, an intricately designed stepwell, is located in Patan. It was built in the 11th century, and is adorned with over a thousand carvings depicting Hindu deities and mythological figures.
• Historic City of Ahmedabad: Ahmedabad was the first Indian city to be recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage City.
• Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park: This UNESCO site is also a pilgrimage site. Perched on top of Pavagadh Hill, the site holds significant historical and religious importance.
• Dholavira: A Harappan City: Dholavira, located in the Rann of Kutch, is one of the best-preserved cities from the Indus Valley Civilization.
  

• Taj Mahal: The Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This monument was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, and is one of the most recognised monuments in the world.
• Agra Fort: This massive red sandstone fort in Agra was the primary residence of Mughal emperors before the capital was shifted to Delhi. This was also where Emperor Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb.
• Fatehpur Sikri: Fatehpur Sikri served as the Mughal capital, but for a really short period. The city’s architecture is unforgettable.
  

• Khajuraho Group of Monuments: Khajuraho is famous for its elaborately carved temples that reflect the finest craftsmanship of that time. Khajuraho monuments feature themes of love, life, and spirituality.
• Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi: The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India. The site dates back to the 3rd century BCE.
• Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka: Bhimbetka is a prehistoric rock shelter featuring ancient cave paintings that date back to the Paleolithic era.
  

• Red Fort Complex: The Red Fort served as the residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years.
• Qutub Minar and its Monuments: The Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. It is one of the most recognised monuments in India.
• Humayun’s Tomb: Humayun’s Tomb was the inspiration behind the architecture of Taj Mahal. The tomb was built in memory of Emperor Humayun by his wife.
  
  

• Kaziranga National Park: Kaziranga is home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses. The national park is known for its unique biodiversity and role in conserving the great one-horned rhinoceros.
• Manas Wildlife Sanctuary: Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot and a sanctuary for a number of endangered species, including the Bengal tiger and the critically endangered pygmy hog.
• Moidams – the Mound-Burial system of the Ahom Dynasty: The Moidams are the unique burial mounds from the Ahom Dynasty. This site is the latest one to be included in the list.
  

• Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya: Bodh Gaya is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. This site was where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
• Ancient Nalanda Mahavihara (Nalanda University): Nalanda is one of the oldest universities in the world. The site is now in ruins, however, it continues to draw a large number of visitors every year. Nalanda was the world’s first residential university.