India’s UNESCO World Heritage journey just got a big boost. The country added seven stunning natural sites to its tentative list, pushing the total from 62 to 69 properties. This move sets the stage for these gems to potentially join the official UNESCO World Heritage list down the line.
Right now, India boasts 49 cultural sites, 17 natural ones, and three mixed properties on the full UNESCO roster. The new additions highlight the nation’s rich geological wonders and natural beauty, from volcanic landscapes to ancient caves.
The fresh sites on the tentative list include the Deccan Traps in Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra; the geological formations of St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka; Meghalayan Age caves in Meghalaya; Naga Hill Ophiolite in Nagaland; Erra Matti Dibbalu in Andhra Pradesh; the natural heritage of Tirumala Hills in Andhra Pradesh; and the dramatic Varkala Cliffs in Kerala.
Getting on the tentative list is the first step toward earning full UNESCO World Heritage status, which recognizes sites of outstanding global value.
"The addition of these new sites to the UNESCO list reaffirms India’s unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting its extraordinary natural and cultural legacy," a government statement said.
This news comes soon after India hosted the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi in July 2024. Over 2,000 delegates from more than 140 countries joined the event, spotlighting India’s role in global heritage conservation.
Here’s a quick look at these seven incredible spots that showcase India’s natural heritage:
Deccan Traps at Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra: These areas feature some of the world’s best-preserved lava flows from ancient volcanic activity. They sit inside the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, already a UNESCO site, and offer a close-up view of India’s geological marvels.
St. Mary’s Island Cluster, Karnataka: Known for its eye-catching columnar basalt formations, these islands date back 85 million years to the Late Cretaceous period. They’re a rare geological treasure that draws adventurers and scientists alike.
Meghalayan Age Caves, Meghalaya: The highlight here is the Mawmluh Cave system, which serves as the worldwide benchmark for the Meghalayan Age. It captures major shifts in Earth’s climate and geology over millennia.
Naga Hill Ophiolite, Nagaland: These hills provide a clear window into plate tectonics, ocean ridge movements, and the planet’s deep geological history. They’re a must-see for anyone fascinated by how Earth works.
Tirumala Hills, Andhra Pradesh: Home to the unique Silathoranam natural arch and the Eparchaean Unconformity, these hills tell a story spanning 1.5 billion years of Earth’s evolution. They’re a blend of natural beauty and scientific significance.
Erra Matti Dibbalu, Andhra Pradesh: This site features colorful badlands and unique sedimentary formations, adding to India’s diverse natural landscapes.
Varkala Cliffs, Kerala: These striking red laterite cliffs along the Arabian Sea coast mix dramatic scenery with rich geological features, making them a standout coastal heritage spot.
These additions not only celebrate India’s biodiversity and geology but also encourage more tourism and conservation efforts. As the country pushes forward, expect these sites to gain even more attention on the global stage.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
