World Heritage site UPSC 2024
Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:
1. Shantiniketan
2. Rani-ki-Vav
3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas
4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya
How many of the above properties were included in 2023?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) Only three (d) All four
Ans. B
- Shantiniketan and Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas were both added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023.
- Rani-ki-Vav and Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya were inscribed on the list earliest.
Know More
India boasts a rich array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting its diverse cultural and natural heritage. As of now, the following sites are recognized:
Cultural Sites:
- Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra) – Ancient Buddhist rock-cut cave monuments.
- Ellora Caves (Maharashtra) – A complex of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples.
- Agra Fort (Uttar Pradesh) – A massive red sandstone fort.
- Taj Mahal (Uttar Pradesh) – The iconic white marble mausoleum.
- Humayun’s Tomb (Delhi) – A precursor to the Taj Mahal and a fine example of Mughal architecture.
- Qutub Minar and its Monuments (Delhi) – A 73-meter tall minaret and surrounding structures.
- Red Fort Complex (Delhi) – A grand fortification with significant historical importance.
- Churches and Convents of Goa (Goa) – Historic Portuguese churches and convents.
- Group of Monuments at Hampi (Karnataka) – Ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Group of Monuments at Pattadakal (Karnataka) – An ensemble of temples with diverse architectural styles.
- Khajuraho Group of Monuments (Madhya Pradesh) – Famous for their intricately carved temples.
- Rani ki Vav (The Queen’s Stepwell) (Gujarat) – An elaborate stepwell with exquisite sculptures.
- Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu) – Rock-cut temples and sculptures.
- Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar Pradesh) – A former Mughal capital city.
- Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (Gujarat) – A site with a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture.
- Sanchi Stupa (Madhya Pradesh) – An ancient Buddhist complex.
- Elephanta Caves (Maharashtra) – Rock-cut temples dedicated to Hindu gods.
Natural Sites:
- Kaziranga National Park (Assam) – Known for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses.
- Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (Assam) – A biodiversity hotspot and home to various endangered species.
- Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) – A significant bird sanctuary.
- Western Ghats – A mountain range with rich biodiversity spanning several states.
- Great Himalayan National Park (Himachal Pradesh) – Home to diverse flora and fauna in the Himalayas.
- Khangchendzonga National Park (Sikkim) – Includes the third-highest mountain in the world and diverse ecosystems.
These sites collectively represent India’s historical, cultural, and natural wealth and are preserved for their global significance.