There are currently 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites in India. In this article, we are sharing the top ten least popular UNESCO World Heritage in India.
When discussing UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, the first name that often comes to mind is the Taj Mahal. Others may recall famous sites like the Sun Temple at Konark, Jaipur’s historic city, or the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. However, India’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes offer far more than just these well-known landmarks.
With a total of 43 UNESCO listed sites, India boasts several hidden gems that deserve just as much attention. While iconic places draw millions of visitors, many remarkable yet lesser-known sites remain overlooked. It’s time to shift our focus and explore these hidden treasures. Let’s take a journey through some of India’s lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase the country’s incredible history, architecture, and natural beauty.
List of 10 Less Popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India
1. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in Assam at the foothills of the Himalayas, Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is a lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Site that deserves more attention. This stunning biodiversity hotspot is home to rare and endangered species like the Assam roofed turtle, golden langur, and pygmy hog.
With its dense forests, grasslands, and the Manas River flowing through, it offers breathtaking landscapes. Recognized for its rich flora and fauna, Manas is also a tiger and elephant reserve. While Kaziranga grabs the spotlight, Manas remains a hidden paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an offbeat adventure in India.
2. Keoladeo National Park
Located in Rajasthan, Keoladeo National Park is a lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Site, yet it is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world. Also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, it hosts over 370 species of birds, including the rare Siberian crane, painted stork, and Indian spotted eagle.
Once a royal hunting ground, it is now a protected wetland, attracting migratory birds from as far as Central Asia and Europe. Despite its ecological significance, Keoladeo remains underrated compared to other wildlife destinations in India. For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, this hidden gem is a must-visit.
3. Great Living Chola Temples
The Great Living Chola Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tamil Nadu, are among India’s lesser-known historical treasures. Built by the Chola dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries, this group includes Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, and Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram.
These temples showcase extraordinary Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and advanced engineering techniques of their time. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, they reflect the grandeur of Chola craftsmanship and cultural heritage. While temples like Meenakshi and Tirupati draw larger crowds, these architectural wonders remain an underrated but must-visit part of India’s rich history.
4. Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka
Hidden in the Vindhya hills of Madhya Pradesh, the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka are one of India’s lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These ancient caves feature prehistoric rock paintings dating back over 30,000 years, offering a glimpse into early human life. The artwork, depicting hunting, dancing, and rituals, showcases the creativity of early civilizations.
Discovered in 1957, Bhimbetka bridges the gap between the prehistoric and historic eras. While sites like Ajanta and Ellora receive more attention, Bhimbetka remains an underrated treasure for history and archaeology enthusiasts, preserving India’s deep-rooted connection with its ancient past.
5. Rani ki Vav
Located in Patan, Gujarat, Rani ki Vav is an extraordinary yet lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati in memory of her husband, this intricately designed stepwell is a masterpiece of Maru-Gurjara architecture.
It features seven levels adorned with over 500 detailed sculptures depicting Hindu deities, mythology, and daily life. Originally a water storage system, it also served as a spiritual and social hub. Though India is famous for forts and palaces, this hidden gem stands as a symbol of artistic brilliance and engineering expertise from the bygone era.
6. Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai
Mumbai’s Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beautifully showcase the city’s architectural evolution. Built during the 19th and early 20th centuries, this collection includes iconic structures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Bombay High Court, and Eros Cinema.
The Victorian Gothic buildings, with their pointed arches and stained glass, reflect British colonial influence, while the sleek Art Deco designs symbolize Mumbai’s modern aspirations. Despite their historical and cultural significance, these architectural gems remain underrated compared to Mumbai’s more popular landmarks. This ensemble is a must-visit for architecture and history enthusiasts.
7. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas
The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, include the magnificent temples of Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapura in Karnataka. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, these temples are known for their intricate carvings, star-shaped platforms, and detailed sculptures depicting mythological stories.
The Chennakesava Temple in Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu are prime examples of Hoysala architectural brilliance. Despite their artistic grandeur, these temples remain lesser-known compared to other South Indian heritage sites. For history and architecture lovers, these hidden gems offer an unforgettable journey into India’s rich cultural past.
8. Moidams
The Moidams of Assam, a lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Site, are the royal burial mounds of the Ahom dynasty, located mainly in Charaideo. Dating back to the 13th–19th centuries, these unique tombs resemble the pyramidal structures of Egypt, showcasing the blended Tai-Ahom and indigenous architectural styles.
Built for Ahom kings and nobles, they hold immense historical and cultural significance. Despite their grandeur, Moidams remain overshadowed by more famous heritage sites in India. These burial sites provide a fascinating insight into the rich traditions and royal legacy of Assam, making them a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
9. Santiniketan
Founded by Rabindranath Tagore in the early 20th century, Santiniketan in West Bengal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique blend of education, art, and culture. Originally an ashram, it later became Visva-Bharati University, promoting learning beyond textbooks.
The campus features open-air classrooms, murals by Nandalal Bose, and Baul music traditions, reflecting India’s rich artistic heritage. Despite its historical and cultural significance, Santiniketan remains lesser-known compared to other heritage sites. For those interested in literature, art, and philosophy, this serene town offers a deep connection to Tagore’s vision of a harmonious world.
10. Kakatiya Rudreshwara
The Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple, popularly known as Ramappa Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Telangana. Built in 1213 CE during the reign of the Kakatiya dynasty, it is renowned for its intricate carvings, floating bricks, and star-shaped structure.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple showcases exceptional sandstone sculptures and elaborate pillars that reflect the architectural brilliance of its time. Despite its grandeur, it remains lesser-known compared to other South Indian temples. For history and architecture enthusiasts, Ramappa Temple is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
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