Maharashtra tops with most UNESCO World Heritage Sites

India, with its diverse history and rich cultural heritage, is home to 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Western state of Maharashtra stands out as the state with the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, boasting five in total.

India, renowned for its rich cultural and architectural heritage, is home to 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites stand as testaments to the country’s vast and diverse history, shaped by centuries of dynamic rulers, colonial influences, and a blend of varied cultural traditions and cultures.

From ancient temples to colonial-era structures, India’s monuments reflect the complexity of its past. Among the states in India, Maharashtra, in western India, stands out as the one with the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Each of these five sites highlights different aspects of India’s rich heritage, from its Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions to its colonial past.

Ajanta Caves

A stunning collection of 29 rock-cut caves located about 100 km from Aurangabad, in central Maharashtra, the Ajanta Caves were designated the status of UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. The site is renowned for its murals dating back from 2^nd century BCE to around 480 CE.

The caves are nestled on the banks of Waghora River, in a horseshoe-shaped bend of the rock face, overlooking a narrow stream. The location, secluded by the forests and the river, made it an ideal place for Buddhist monks who inhabited the caves, as the serenity and calmness allowed them to pursue their spiritual practices in peace.

The caves boast a slew of sculptures and paintings that represent some of the finest examples of ancient Indian art including stunning and well-preserved murals renowned for their vibrant colours, expressive figures, and intricate compositions.

The paintings at Ajanta Caves depict the life of the time and the teachings of Lord Buddha and are mostly from the Jataka Tales, a collection of stories about the previous lives of Gautama Buddha.

Ellora Caves

The group of 34 caves at Ellora located in the Charanandri hills about 30 km from Aurangabad in Maharashtra showcases a spirit of co-existence and religious tolerance through the stunning architectural activities carried out by the followers of three religions, Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism at the site.

The caves, carved into a two km-long basalt cliff face date back to the 6^th – 10^th century. One of the major highlights of the site is the towering monolith of Shiva, a Hindu God, in the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) which features intricate carvings of celestial dancers and musicians, leaving visitors spellbound.

Among other captivating sites are the elaborate Buddhist viharas, monastic complexes and the intricate Jain temples, each with its own unique carvings and sculptures.

Today, these caves stand as a beacon of religious tolerance, where different faiths coexisted and flourished in harmony. They were declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.

Elephanta Caves

Also known as the Gharapuri Caves, the Elephanta Caves are a collection of cave temples predominantly dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour. The caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

Said to have been constructed between the 5^th and 7^th centuries, these caves carved out of solid basalt rock hold immense cultural and historical significance in the region. The caves are divided into two main groups, the Hindu caves and a smaller group of Buddhist caves.

The Hindu caves feature intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu mythology, gods and goddesses. The most renowned of these sculptures is the 5.45 m tall Trimurti Sadashiva, a three-faced Shiva representing his creative, preserving, and destructive aspects

They also boast five distinct cave temples, each with its unique set of sculptures and architectural features. Another distinct architectural marvel is the 2.5 m tall sculpture of Maheshvara, a manifestation of Shiva, seated on a Nandi bull.

Despite facing damage from Portuguese colonial rule in the 16^th century, the caves remain a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual history.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (Victoria Terminus)

Used by over 3 million commuters every day, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, located in south Mumbai is said to be one of the finest functional Railway Station buildings of the world. The property constructed over a period of 10 years in the 19th century stands as a testament of Victorian gothic architectural revival in India, blended with the themes derived from Indian traditional architecture.

The terminal boasts breath-taking stone dome, turrets, pointed arches and eccentric ground plan which can be found in traditional Indian palace architecture.  It also features intricate carvings, stained-glass windows, and a majestic clock tower that stands tall at the heart of the station.

The use of local sandstone and marble, along with ornamental details such as floral motifs and arches, reflects the rich cultural heritage of India while embracing Western architectural principles. The grand façade, with its delicate craftsmanship, showcases the blend of two distinct architectural traditions, creating one awe-inspiring structure.

In 2004, UNESCO recognised the terminus as a World Heritage Site.

Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai

Oval Maidan, often considered the heart of the city, is surrounded by stunning Victorian Gothic buildings from the 19^th century, including landmarks like the Mumbai High Court, University of Mumbai, the Fort Campus, City Civil and Sessions Court, and the iconic Rajabai Clock Tower in the university.

These buildings showcase the grandeur and details of the British colonial era, offering a glimpse into Mumbai’s architectural past. While exploring the area, one can journey through the city’s architectural evolution.

The Victorian Gothic structures reflect the influence of British colonial rule, with their intricate designs and majestic presence. In contrast, the Art Deco buildings from the 20^th century highlight a more modern, minimalist style with sleek lines and geometric patterns, offering a sharp contrast to the older, more decorative buildings.

In 2018, this blend of Victorian and Art Deco architecture was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrating its unique mix of two distinct architectural styles and their importance in shaping the urban landscape of Mumbai.