New Unesco heritage sites: India’s seven fresh additions

Deccan Traps at Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra This is a vast volcanic plateau with ancient basalt flows, dramatic escarpments, and unique flora and fauna. It is important for understanding Earth’s geological history and biodiversity.

Geological Heritage of St Mary’s Island Cluster (Udupi, Karnataka) St Mary’s Island Cluster is a group with distinctive hexagonal basaltic columns, coastal geology, and unusual natural formations which are geologically rare and scenically striking.

Meghalayan Age Caves (East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya) These are cavern systems preserving the mineral deposits and formations from the Meghalayan geological age, offering records of past climate, biodiversity, and geological evolution.

Naga Hill Ophiolite (Kiphire, Nagaland) This place is connected to Nagaland’s regional past. The ophiolite provides insights into tectonic processes and mineral deposits.

Natural Heritage of Tirumala Hills (Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh) These are sacred hills with unique landscapes, spiritual significance, forest ecosystems, medicinal flora and the pilgrimage traditions that intertwine with nature conservation.

Erra Matti Dibbalu, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh The place boasts of coastal red-sand dunes fossils forming geologic structures, marine avian biodiversity, and eroded landforms. It has a visually striking appeal.

Natural Heritage of Varkala, Kerala This site in Kerala consists of cliff coastal structures, springs, mineral soils and coastal ecosystems. Combined with cultural and spiritual importance, the scenic cliffs are a candidate for unique natural heritage.

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks (Uttarakhand) Prior to these seven additions, thisplace in Uttarakhand, known for high-altitude wilderness, snow leopards, and rare Himalayan flora, was added to the Unesco list. The Valley of Flowers is a vibrant alpine meadow of endemic plants.

Western Ghats (Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu) This is a global biodiversity hotspot with montane forests, endemic species, and sacred groves, influencing monsoon patterns and supporting millions of people. This location was added to Unesco’s list in 2012.

Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) In 1985, Unesco named the Keoladeo National Park, a man-made wetland and bird sanctuary that serves as a haven for migratory birds like the Siberian crane, pelicans, and storks, in its list.

12 Maratha forts seeking Unesco’s heritage tag