Why this matters now
World Heritage Sites combine static knowledge (the convention, categories, famous sites) with current affairs (new inscriptions each year). UPSC asks both — which is the newest site, which is natural vs cultural, and the nodal agency.
The framework
Sites are inscribed under the World Heritage Convention (1972) by UNESCO, on the recommendation of advisory bodies (ICOMOS for cultural, IUCN for natural). India’s nominations are steered by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) (cultural) and the Ministry of Environment (natural). Sites are classified as cultural, natural or mixed.
Cultural sites
India’s cultural sites include the Taj Mahal, Ajanta & Ellora caves, Khajuraho, Hampi, Konark Sun Temple, Sanchi, Qutb Minar, Red Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, the Great Living Chola Temples, the historic city of Ahmedabad, Jaipur city, Dholavira (Harappan), the Kakatiya Ramappa Temple, Santiniketan, the Sacred Hoysala Temples and the Moidams of Charaideo (Ahom mounds, Assam — among the most recent).
Natural and mixed sites
Natural sites include Kaziranga, the Sundarbans, the Western Ghats, Nanda Devi & Valley of Flowers, the Great Himalayan National Park, Manas and Keoladeo. Khangchendzonga National Park (Sikkim) is India’s only mixed (cultural + natural) site.
UPSC angle
Know the convention (1972, UNESCO; ICOMOS/IUCN advisers; ASI nodal), the three categories, the only mixed site (Khangchendzonga), and the latest inscriptions (track current affairs each year).
Frequently asked questions
How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites does India have?
Over 40, spanning cultural, natural and mixed categories — with new sites added almost every year.
What are the categories of World Heritage Sites?
Cultural, natural and mixed (combining cultural and natural value).
Which is India’s only mixed World Heritage Site?
Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim.
Which body steers India’s cultural nominations?
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI); natural sites are handled by the Ministry of Environment, with IUCN/ICOMOS as UNESCO’s advisers.