India is a country with a history that dates back five millennia ago. Imagine the things you could see, visit, and do here, with its colorful culture, beautiful temples, stunning palaces, unique architecture, and exquisite local cuisine. You can never run out of things to explore and discover. One thing that you should never miss is visiting the numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites for they will take your breath away with their effortless beauty and backstory. In case you need help where to start exploring, check out our list of the top 10 UNESCO Sites in India.
1. Agra Fort (from USD 34.0)
Agra Fort is a historical monument that once was home to the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty. It is located right on the banks of the river of Yamuna and just near the garden of its sister monument the famous, Taj Mahal. Inside the fort are fairytale-like palaces, such as Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, which is a perfect example of Mughal architecture. Apart from palaces, you’ll also find there a beautiful mosque and an audience hall. If you want to skip the lines and have an expert guide walk you through the history of the place, then make sure to avail of this tour from Viator.
Agra Fort Entrance Ticket With Guided Tour
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
2. Konark Sun Temple (from USD 189.0)
The Konark Sun Temple, in honor of the Hindu god Surya, is one of the most visited attractions in India and a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is less than 2 miles (1.6 km) away from the Bay of Bengal which adds up to the beauty of the shrine. What remains of the temple complex is a 100 ft (30 m), stone carved, high chariot. If you want to escape the hassle of planning your trip and researching how to get to the temple, then you have to book this tour from Viator and have them arranged everything for you. The tour will last for seven to eight hours, and an expert guide will guide you throughout the journey. Expect to go home with knowledge about the 24 intricately carved sundials and the history behind the temple and its structures.
UNESCO's Konark - The Famous Sun Temple at the Bay of Bengal
Duration: 6 to 7 hours
3. Churches and Convents of Goa (from USD 13.0)
This UNESCO Heritage Site is a group of stunning churches and historical convents located in the Goa Velha, which is the capital of Portuguese India and an important center of evangelization during the 16th century. This place is ancient, rich in history, and riddled with heritage and culture. You’ll surely e mesmerized by the ruins of 15th-century monasteries and churches. If you want a stress-free and knowledge-filled sightseeing, then you have to avail of this walking tour. A fun guide will tell you cool stories about the place and its history that you will surely never forget. The churches and convents that you’ll visit include the Sé Cathedral, the Church of St Francis of Assisi, Adil Shah Palace Gateway, and more.
Walk Through the Ruins of Old Goa (2 Hours Guided Walking Tour)
Duration: 2 hours
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4. Keoladeo National Park (from USD 142.0)
Keoladeo National Park is home to a vast species of birds like the grey heron, eagle, cormorants, and the egret. Aside from being a bird sanctuary, it is also a former royal game reserve in Rajasthan. You’ll also find there the sandstone temples, a 16th-century mosque, wetlands, and other fascinating attractions. Also, you’ll learn about the habitat, behavior, and environment of its permanent residents like the python, fishing cat, and more. This tour will let you explore the park leisurely with an expert guide.
Keoladeo National Park Private Tour from New Delhi
Duration: 11 hours
5. Elephanta Caves (from USD 98.0)
The Elephanta Caves are well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site in India. It is a collection of cave temples, in honor of the Hindu god Shiva, which is in Elephanta Island, just 10 km (6.2 mi) from Mumbai. To get there, you have to ride a ferry for an hour; don’t worry, for it will be an enjoyable boat ride across the Mumbai Harbor. Apart from the impressive cave temples, you’ll also get to explore the remnants of the bygone eras hidden in the crannies of the caves.
Mumbai: Ancient Elephanta Caves Tour w/ Ride of Toy Train
Duration: 6.0 hour
6. Humayun’s Tomb (from USD 105.0)
If you want to see the inspiration for the aesthetic of the Taj Mahal, then you have to take this exclusive history walk to the Humayun’s Tomb complex. It is a structure made of red sandstone and where the body of the Mughal Emperor Humayun in India rests. Immerse yourself in the culture, art, and history of medieval Delhi during this three-hour tour of the complex. You will be strolling around the garden and learn about the architecture and the illusion used in building the structure. Other attractions that you’ll see include the Bu Hamida’s tomb, the Afsarwala tomb, and a royal barber’s tomb.
Tip from Content Creator
Humayun's Tomb is a magical place in New Delhi, housing the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun. The tomb was commissioned by Humayun's first wife and chief consort, Empress Bega Begum, under her patronage in 1558. It was designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyas and his son, Sayyid Muhammad, Persian architects chosen by the empress.
Humayun's Tomb Complex - A Private History Walk
Duration: 3 hours
7. Taj Mahal (from USD 38.0)
Taj Mahal is the most iconic piece of structure in India and is also one of the wonders of the world. Its beauty will definitely take your breath away. It is a perfect example of a man’s great love for his woman. It was built through the order of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to honor his favorite wife. Designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Taj Mahal should not be missed out if you are visiting India. Opt for a tour that will take you to Taj Mahal before sunrise, for the visual of the gigantic mausoleum of white marble is more astounding during this time. Also, it means lesser crowd which means you take more photos without anyone photobombing your shot.
Taj Mahal Sunrise Tour
Duration: 2 hours
8. Sundarbans National Park (from USD 405.0)
Explore the Sundarbans National Park, the largest mangrove forest in the world, through an exclusive boat that offers delicious lunch onboard. It is the sanctuary of the Royal Bengal tiger and other endangered species like the estuarine crocodile, Olive Ridley turtle, Ganges River dolphin, and a lot more. Few of the features of the park you’ll visit are the Sajnekhali Tiger Project Area, which houses the museum and the watchtower, and Dayapur Island, which is where the Tiger Camp.
Private Sunderbans Day Tour with Exclusive Boat and Lunch
Duration: 12 hours
9. Mahabodhi Temple Complex (from USD 199.0)
Mahabodhi Temple Complex is another UNESCO Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya, which is a small town in India that holds strong religious significance, for it is where Buddha attained enlightenment. It is also an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhist. Apart from the Mahabodhi Temple, you’ll also visit the village of Sujatha, where Sujatha Stupa, a Buddhist temple, is erected. It is in memory of the daughter of the rich merchant who helped Buddha when he was weak during the process of attaining enlightenment.
Tip from Content Creator
Sneha
The Mahabodhi Temple or the 'Great Awakening Temple' is an ancient Buddhist temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India. It's the place where Gautam Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.
This pilgrimage centre for Buddhists and Hindus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was rebuilt and restored by the British and later by Indians post independence. This temple offers peace and a captivating experience to all its visitors, irrespective of their religion.
2 Days Mahabodhi Temple Tour of Bodhgaya from Varanasi
Duration: 2 days
10. Fatehpur Sikri (from USD 68.0)
Fatehpur Sikri is a small city in India that boasts of Mughal and Hindu architecture. Here, you’ll appreciate and experience the extravagant of early modern fortresses and palaces. The tour will not just let you see the grandeur of the structures, but, also let you know about its history through the storytelling of your expert guide. The palaces and forts that you’ll visit include the Tomb of Salim Chishti, Diwan-E-Khas, Jodha Bais Palace, and more.
The Fort of Victory: Fatehpur Sikri
Duration: 4 hours
Hello India
India is one beautiful country that will make you keep coming back because of its vibrant but at the same time laidback destinations. To get to know the country, you should visit the top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on our list, and learn more about India’s culture and influences.
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