Three Indian sites have been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List in 2026, highlighting the country’s rich cultural, historical and geological heritage. The three sites are the Karst-mud-volcano Complex of Baratang, the Andaman Subduction Volcanoes and the Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape in Chhattisgarh. Their inclusion is an important step towards possible recognition as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Why Are Three Indian Sites in the News?
In October 2026, three sites from India were included in UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List. Two sites are located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while the third is in Chhattisgarh. These sites are important for their unique geological formations, ancient temples and archaeological remains.
According to UNESCO’s official website, the additions bring the total number of Indian properties on the Tentative List to 81. However, these sites have not yet received official World Heritage status.
Which Three Indian Sites Were Added to UNESCO’s Tentative List?
The three Indian sites added to the UNESCO Tentative List are:
- Karst-mud-volcano Complex of Baratang: Located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it is known for its limestone caves, mud volcanoes and distinctive geological formations.
- Andaman Subduction Volcanoes: This site includes Barren Island and Narcondam Island, which are known for their volcanic origins and unique ecosystems.
- Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape: Located in Chhattisgarh, Sirpur is an ancient settlement known for its temples, Buddhist monasteries and archaeological remains.
1. Karst-mud-volcano Complex of Baratang
The Karst-mud-volcano Complex of Baratang is located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is known for its limestone caves, mud volcanoes and distinctive natural landscape.
The site is important for understanding geological processes and the development of landforms over time.
Key features of Baratang include:
- Limestone caves: These caves formed over long periods as water gradually dissolved limestone rocks.
- Mud volcanoes: Unlike conventional volcanoes, mud volcanoes release mud, water and gases from beneath the Earth’s surface instead of molten lava.
- Geological importance: The landscape provides valuable information about the region’s geological history.
- Natural environment: The caves and volcanic features exist within a landscape of tropical forests and coastal ecosystems.
2. Andaman Subduction Volcanoes
The Andaman Subduction Volcanoes include Barren Island and Narcondam Island in the Andaman Sea. These islands are associated with volcanic activity caused by tectonic processes in the region.
Both islands have distinct geological and ecological characteristics.
Key features of the Andaman Subduction Volcanoes include:
- Barren Island: It is home to South Asia’s only confirmed active volcano.
- Narcondam Island: It is a volcanic island known for its steep terrain and forest-covered slopes.
- Tectonic activity: The volcanic landscape is linked to the movement of tectonic plates in the Andaman region.
- Biodiversity: The islands support distinctive ecosystems that have developed in relative isolation.
3. Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape
The Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape is located in Mahasamund district of Chhattisgarh, on the banks of the Mahanadi River. It is approximately 78 kilometres from Raipur, the state capital.
Historically known as Shripur, Sirpur developed as an important centre of religion, trade and culture. Its archaeological remains reflect the region’s historical development and architectural traditions.
Key features of Sirpur include:
- Ancient temples: The site contains the remains of several Hindu temples dedicated to different deities.
- Buddhist heritage: Sirpur is known for its Buddhist monasteries and other Buddhist archaeological remains.
- Jain influence: Archaeological evidence also reflects the presence of Jain religious traditions.
- Cultural diversity: The remains highlight the coexistence of different religious traditions.
- Historical importance: Sirpur’s archaeological landscape reflects the development of trade, learning and architecture in ancient India.
UNESCO Tentative List of India 2026
Here is the list of UNESCO Tentative List of India 2026 from latest to oldest along with their location, as per the latest data there are currently 81 sites in India that have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.
| UNESCO Tentative List of India 2026 | ||||
|
S. No. |
Site Name |
Location |
Description |
Date Added |
|
1 |
Karst-mud-volcano Complex of Baratang |
Baratang Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
Geological landscape featuring karst formations and mud volcanoes. |
28 Sep 2026 |
|
2 |
Andaman Subduction Volcanoes |
Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
Volcanic landscapes associated with tectonic subduction. |
28 Sep 2026 |
|
3 |
Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape |
Sirpur, Chhattisgarh |
Ancient temples, monasteries and archaeological remains. |
28 Sep 2026 |
|
4 |
The Sites of Satyagraha |
Multiple locations across India |
Sites associated with the development of non-violent resistance. |
3 Sep 2026 |
|
5 |
Bagh Cave Paintings |
Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh |
Buddhist rock-cut caves known for ancient murals. |
8 Jul 2026 |
|
6 |
Ginnorgarh Fort |
Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh |
Historic hill fort with defensive structures. |
8 Jul 2026 |
|
7 |
Group of Temples of the Chambal Valley |
Morena and Bhind region, Madhya Pradesh |
Bateshwar, Padavali and Kakarmath temple complexes. |
8 Jul 2026 |
|
8 |
Udaigiri Caves |
Near Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh |
Rock-cut caves featuring Hindu and Jain sculptures. |
8 Jul 2026 |
|
9 |
Rangpur-Sivasagar Historic Ensemble |
Sivasagar, Assam |
Monuments reflecting the heritage of the Ahom kingdom. |
19 Jun 2026 |
|
10 |
The Painted Haveli Towns of Shekhawati |
Shekhawati region, Rajasthan |
Merchant mansions decorated with elaborate frescoes. |
1 Jun 2026 |
|
11 |
Nicobarese Cultural Continuity in the Central Group of Nicobar Islands |
Central Nicobar Islands |
Cultural landscape preserving Nicobarese traditions. |
22 May 2026 |
|
12 |
Colonial Penal Settlement of Andaman Islands |
Andaman Islands |
Sites associated with British colonial imprisonment. |
22 May 2026 |
|
13 |
Serial Nomination of Buddhist Triangle Sites of Odisha |
Odisha |
Buddhist monasteries, stupas and archaeological remains. |
22 Dec 2025 |
|
14 |
Naga Hill Ophiolite |
Nagaland |
Geological formations containing ancient oceanic crust and mantle rocks. |
27 Aug 2025 |
|
15 |
Deccan Traps at Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar |
Satara district, Maharashtra |
Basalt formations created by ancient volcanic lava flows. |
27 Aug 2025 |
|
16 |
Geological Heritage of St Mary’s Island Cluster |
Near Malpe, Karnataka |
Islands famous for columnar basalt formations. |
27 Aug 2025 |
|
17 |
Meghalayan Age Caves |
Meghalaya |
Caves preserving geological formations and environmental evidence. |
27 Aug 2025 |
|
18 |
Natural Heritage of Erra Matti Dibbalu |
Visakhapatnam region, Andhra Pradesh |
Distinctive red coastal sedimentary formations. |
27 Aug 2025 |
|
19 |
Natural Heritage of Tirumala Hills |
Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh |
Hills with significant geological formations. |
27 Aug 2025 |
|
20 |
Natural Heritage of Varkala |
Varkala, Kerala |
Coastal cliffs exposing sedimentary rock formations. |
27 Aug 2025 |
|
21 |
Salkhan Fossil Park, Sonbhadra |
Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh |
Fossil-rich rock formations preserving evidence of ancient life. |
4 Jun 2025 |
|
22 |
Kanger Valley National Park |
Bastar, Chhattisgarh |
Forests, limestone caves, waterfalls and diverse wildlife. |
11 Feb 2025 |
|
23 |
Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs |
Narayanpet, Telangana |
Ancient standing stones associated with megalithic practices. |
11 Feb 2025 |
|
24 |
Ashokan Edict Sites along the Mauryan Routes |
Multiple locations across India |
Inscriptions documenting Ashoka’s rule and ethical principles. |
11 Feb 2025 |
|
25 |
Chausath Yogini Temples |
Multiple locations across India |
Temples dedicated to the Yoginis and associated tantric traditions. |
11 Feb 2025 |
|
26 |
Gupta Temples in North India |
Northern India |
Early structural temples illustrating the evolution of temple architecture. |
11 Feb 2025 |
|
27 |
The Palace-Fortresses of the Bundelas |
Bundelkhand, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh |
Forts and palaces associated with the Bundela rulers. |
11 Feb 2025 |
|
28 |
Gwalior Fort |
Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh |
Hill fort featuring palaces, temples and inscriptions. |
8 Feb 2024 |
|
29 |
Khooni Bhandara, Burhanpur |
Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh |
Historic underground water-supply and filtration system. |
8 Feb 2024 |
|
30 |
Rock Art Sites of the Chambal Valley |
Chambal Valley region |
Rock shelters containing prehistoric paintings. |
8 Feb 2024 |
|
31 |
Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple, Bhojpur |
Bhojpur, Madhya Pradesh |
Unfinished Shiva temple with a monumental lingam. |
8 Feb 2024 |
|
32 |
Gond Monuments of Ramnagar, Mandla |
Ramnagar, Mandla, Madhya Pradesh |
Monuments linked to the historic Gond kingdom. |
8 Feb 2024 |
|
33 |
Historic Ensemble of Dhamnar |
Mandsaur district, Madhya Pradesh |
Rock-cut Buddhist caves and archaeological remains. |
8 Feb 2024 |
|
34 |
Coastal Fortifications along the Konkan Coast |
Konkan coast, Maharashtra |
Coastal forts reflecting maritime defence architecture. |
3 Jan 2024 |
|
35 |
Sun Temple, Modhera and Its Adjoining Monuments |
Modhera, Gujarat |
Sun temple known for carvings and its stepped tank. |
13 Dec 2022 |
|
36 |
Rock-cut Sculptures and Reliefs of Unakoti |
Unakoti, Tripura |
Large rock-cut sculptures and Shaivite reliefs. |
13 Dec 2022 |
|
37 |
Vadnagar – A Multi-layered Historic Town |
Vadnagar, Gujarat |
Historic town with archaeological evidence of long-term settlement. |
13 Dec 2022 |
|
38 |
Geoglyphs of Konkan Region of India |
Konkan region, Maharashtra and Goa |
Prehistoric rock engravings of animals and geometric forms. |
17 Feb 2022 |
|
39 |
Jingkieng Jri: Living Root Bridge Cultural Landscapes |
Meghalaya |
Living bridges formed from the aerial roots of trees. |
17 Feb 2022 |
|
40 |
Sri Veerabhadra Temple and Monolithic Bull, Lepakshi |
Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh |
Vijayanagara-era temple known for murals, sculpture and Nandi. |
17 Feb 2022 |
|
41 |
Iconic Riverfront of the Historic City of Varanasi |
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh |
Historic ghats, temples and cultural traditions along the Ganga. |
13 Apr 2021 |
|
42 |
Temples of Kanchipuram |
Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu |
Historic Hindu temples representing South Indian architecture. |
13 Apr 2021 |
|
43 |
Hire Benkal, Megalithic Site |
Koppal district, Karnataka |
Megalithic burial structures and prehistoric stone monuments. |
13 Apr 2021 |
|
44 |
Bhedaghat-Lametaghat in Narmada Valley |
Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh |
Marble cliffs and geological formations along the Narmada River. |
13 Apr 2021 |
|
45 |
Satpura Tiger Reserve |
Madhya Pradesh |
Forest ecosystem supporting tigers and other wildlife. |
13 Apr 2021 |
|
46 |
Historic Ensemble of Orchha |
Orchha, Madhya Pradesh |
Palaces, temples and cenotaphs associated with the Bundelas. |
15 Apr 2019 |
|
47 |
Garo Hills Conservation Area |
Meghalaya |
Forested hills with rich biodiversity and threatened wildlife. |
26 Jul 2018 |
|
48 |
Keibul Lamjao Conservation Area |
Loktak Lake, Manipur |
Floating wetland ecosystem and habitat of the endangered Sangai deer. |
11 Mar 2016 |
|
49 |
Cold Desert Cultural Landscape of India |
Himalayan cold-desert region, including Ladakh |
High-altitude landscape shaped by traditional culture and livelihoods. |
15 Apr 2015 |
|
50 |
Sites along the Uttarapath, Badshahi Sadak, Sadak-e-Azam, Grand Trunk Road |
Northern and eastern India |
Historic route connecting settlements through trade and travel. |
15 Apr 2015 |
|
51 |
Evolution of Temple Architecture – Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal |
Bagalkot district, Karnataka |
Chalukyan temple complexes illustrating the evolution of temple design. |
9 Feb 2015 |
|
52 |
Monuments and Forts of the Deccan Sultanate |
Deccan region, including Karnataka and Telangana |
Forts, mosques, tombs and palaces of the Deccan Sultanates. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
53 |
Cellular Jail, Andaman Islands |
Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
Colonial prison associated with Indian freedom fighters. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
54 |
Iconic Saree Weaving Clusters of India |
Multiple weaving centres across India |
Traditional handloom communities preserving saree-weaving techniques. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
55 |
Apatani Cultural Landscape |
Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh |
Traditional landscape known for rice cultivation and Apatani culture. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
56 |
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam |
Srirangam, Tamil Nadu |
Major Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
57 |
Monuments of Srirangapatna Island Town |
Srirangapatna, Karnataka |
Fortifications, palaces and religious monuments. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
58 |
Chilika Lake |
Odisha |
Brackish-water lagoon known for migratory birds and biodiversity. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
59 |
Padmanabhapuram Palace |
Padmanabhapuram, Tamil Nadu |
Historic wooden palace associated with Travancore rulers. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
60 |
Sites of Satyagraha, India’s Non-violent Freedom Movement |
Multiple locations across India |
Sites associated with Gandhi and India’s non-violent freedom movement. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
61 |
Thembang Fortified Village |
West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh |
Traditional fortified Monpa village in the Himalayan region. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
62 |
Narcondam Island |
Andaman Sea, Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
Volcanic island known for distinctive biodiversity and the Narcondam hornbill. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
63 |
Ekamra Kshetra – The Temple City, Bhubaneswar |
Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
Historic sacred landscape featuring Kalinga-style temples. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
64 |
Neolithic Settlement of Burzahom |
Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir |
Archaeological site known for pit dwellings and Neolithic remains. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
65 |
Archaeological Remains of a Harappa Port-Town, Lothal |
Lothal, Gujarat |
Indus Valley Civilisation site linked to maritime trade. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
66 |
Mountain Railways of India (Extension) |
Multiple locations in India |
Proposal relating to mountain railway engineering and heritage. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
67 |
Chettinad, Village Clusters of the Tamil Merchants |
Tamil Nadu |
Merchant settlements known for grand mansions and traditional architecture. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
68 |
Bahá’í House of Worship at New Delhi |
New Delhi |
Lotus-shaped house of worship known for its modern architecture. |
15 Apr 2014 |
|
69 |
Delhi – A Heritage City |
Delhi |
Historic urban landscape featuring monuments from different eras. |
22 May 2012 |
|
70 |
Mughal Gardens in Kashmir |
Kashmir Valley, Jammu and Kashmir |
Terraced gardens reflecting Mughal landscape design. |
13 Dec 2010 |
|
71 |
Qutb Shahi Monuments of Hyderabad |
Hyderabad, Telangana |
Golconda Fort, Qutb Shahi Tombs and Charminar. |
10 Sep 2010 |
|
72 |
Silk Road Sites in India |
Multiple locations, including Himalayan regions |
Sites linked to historic trade and cultural exchanges. |
20 Jan 2010 |
|
73 |
Neora Valley National Park |
Kalimpong district, West Bengal |
Himalayan forests rich in biodiversity. |
26 May 2009 |
|
74 |
Desert National Park |
Jaisalmer and Barmer, Rajasthan |
Thar Desert ecosystem and habitat of the Great Indian Bustard. |
26 May 2009 |
|
75 |
Namdapha National Park |
Changlang, Arunachal Pradesh |
Biodiverse Eastern Himalayan forest ecosystem. |
15 Mar 2006 |
|
76 |
Wild Ass Sanctuary, Little Rann of Kutch |
Gujarat |
Saline desert and wetland habitat of the Indian wild ass. |
15 Mar 2006 |
|
77 |
River Island of Majuli in the Brahmaputra River |
Majuli, Assam |
River island known for Vaishnavite satras and cultural traditions. |
2 Mar 2004 |
|
78 |
Sri Harimandir Sahib |
Amritsar, Punjab |
Golden Temple, a major centre of Sikh worship. |
5 Jan 2004 |
|
79 |
Temples at Bishnupur, West Bengal |
Bishnupur, West Bengal |
Terracotta temples associated with the Malla rulers. |
3 Jul 1998 |
|
80 |
Mattanchery Palace, Ernakulam |
Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala |
Historic palace known for murals and Kerala-style architecture. |
3 Jul 1998 |
|
81 |
Group of Monuments at Mandu |
Mandu, Madhya Pradesh |
Medieval fortifications, palaces and religious monuments. |
3 Jul 1998 |
What Is UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List?
The UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List is an inventory of cultural and natural properties that a country intends to consider for future nomination to the World Heritage List.
Being included in the Tentative List is a necessary step before a site can be formally nominated for World Heritage status.
The process generally involves the following stages:
- Tentative List: The country identifies and lists a site as a potential candidate for World Heritage recognition.
- Nomination: The country submits a formal nomination with supporting documentation.
- Evaluation: The nomination is assessed through the relevant UNESCO evaluation process.
- Final decision: UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee decides whether the property should be inscribed on the World Heritage List.
Therefore, inclusion in the Tentative List does not guarantee that a site will become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why Is the Addition of These Sites Important?
The inclusion of these three Indian sites in UNESCO’s Tentative List highlights the diversity of India’s natural and cultural heritage.
- Heritage conservation: It can encourage greater attention to preserving archaeological remains and geological features.
- International recognition: The inclusion brings these sites into the international heritage nomination process.
- Research opportunities: The sites offer opportunities to study ancient architecture, religious traditions, volcanic activity and geological formations.
- Tourism potential: Greater recognition may help increase awareness of these destinations and support heritage tourism.
- Cultural awareness: Sirpur’s monuments highlight the historical coexistence of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions.
Last updated on Oct, 2026
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Three Indian Sites Added to UNESCO Tentative List 2026 FAQs
Q1. Which three Indian sites were added to UNESCO's Tentative List in 2026?+
Q2. Where is the Sirpur Cultural and Archaeological Landscape located?+
Q3. What is special about Baratang Island?+
Q4. Which islands are included in the Andaman Subduction Volcanoes?+
Q5. Does inclusion in UNESCO's Tentative List mean a site is a World Heritage Site?+
Q6. How many Indian properties are on UNESCO's Tentative List?+
Tags: tentative list unesco tentative list unesco tentative list 2026
