India is a nation full of natural beauty, historic sites, architectural wonders, and amazing wildlife. A nation with a legacy of great culture and heritage, India has over 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which is definitely a rare honour. From its National Parks, Mountain Railways to its magnificent monuments and rock-cut caves, the list is truly enviable. What adds to the excitement is that most of the World Heritage Sites in India are conveniently located within cities. All of this makes India an amazing destination for art connoisseurs, history enthusiasts, and wildlife lovers alike.

Taj Mahal, Agra

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1653 in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal, is the epitome of beauty. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the complex features a lavish Mughal garden, water channels, and a mosque. Built with sparkling white marble, it stands as one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. With towering minarets on all four sides and adorned with arches and domes, the Taj Mahal leaves visitors awestruck. The intricate relief work in marble and the inlay of precious and semi-precious stones make this monument stand out for its breathtaking beauty. There is the octagonal tomb chamber in the center on the ground floor, and the same plan is on the upper floor with rooms on four corners. The exquisite marble lattice screen encircles both cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan, while the richly decorated inlay work adds a mesmerizing look to the monument. The main gate of the Taj Mahal complex is most impressive and stands majestically in the centre, welcoming 7-8 million guests annually.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004. Formerly known as Victoria Terminus Station, the towering structure catches the attention of all who see it. A fine example showcasing the Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in India, the terminus serves as one of the main railway terminus for the busy city of Mumbai. Designed by the British architect Frederick William Stevens, this terminal was built over a span of 10 years. Adorned with turrets, stone domes, and arches inspired by late medieval Italian models, the structure is a fine amalgamation of the designs from both the East and the West traditions.

Elephanta Caves

A short ferry ride away from Mumbai, the financial capital of India, the Elephanta caves are located on an island 10 kilometres off the Mumbai coast. On a clear day, the ferry ride is quite enjoyable, allowing you to admire the Mumbai skyline from afar. A trekkers’ paradise, Elephanta Island is a great place for a quick day trip from Mumbai. Among the most visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, this small island is a treasure trove of archeological remains, with the seven rock-cut Elephanta Caves being the main attraction. Beautifully cut out from giant basalt rocks, historians date the Elephanta Caves to be built between the 5th and 6th centuries AD. The most important is Cave 1, measuring 39 metres from the front entrance to the back, which houses an impressive statue of the three-faced Lord Shiva. The 7-metre-high statue represents the three aspects of Lord Shiva as the Creator, the Preserver, and the Destroyer. Additionally, there are five caves depicting the lives and journeys of Hindu Gods, while two showcase elaborate depictions of the lives and teachings of Buddha.

Kaziranga National Park

Located in the pristine state of Assam, Kaziranga National Park is among the most visited natural World Heritage Sites in India. Known for its dense population of one-horned rhinoceros, this national park boasts over 150 perennial water bodies and has a rich diversity of aquatic flora, with more than 32 species of flora. Among the many species of wildlife that are found here, one can see leopards, fishing cats, large Indian civets, small Indian civets, sambar deer, barking deer, hog deer, gaurs, honey badgers, hoolock gibbons, and more. The national park is also a haven for avian species, with over 476 bird species found here.

Embarking on a morning elephant safari is the best way to enjoy the surreal natural beauty of the Kaziranga National Park and observe the rhinos, elephants, and other wild creatures in their natural habitat. With the exception of the monsoon months, the national park can be visited at any time, as the weather in Assam remains pleasant throughout the year.

Red Fort

Standing tall at the centre of the capital city of India, lies the majestic Red Fort. A fine example of Mughal architecture, the vast complex is enclosed by towering walls made from red sandstone. Built in the 17th century by Shah Jahan as his fortified palace, the Red Fort is one of the most visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites in northern India. The complex has many chambers adorned with highly-ornamented pillared halls. The famous Peacock Throne once resided here before being taken away by Nadir Shah of Iran. Additionally, the complex features a beautiful sleeping chamber and a royal bath. True to the Mugal design aesthetics, the Red Fort has expansive lawns and water channels. Moreover, the complex now houses a state-of-the-art museum, complete with captivating digital displays, making it a must-visit destination.