7 Natural Heritage Sites from India Added to UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage

In a proud stride toward global recognition, India has added seven stunning natural heritage sites to UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites, raising the total to 69 properties under consideration. This includes 49 cultural, 17 natural, and 3 mixed heritage sites.

1. Deccan Traps at Panchgani & Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
- Among the world’s best-preserved lava flows - Located within the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary (already a UNESCO site)

2. St. Mary’s Island Cluster, Karnataka
- Rare columnar basaltic formations from the Late Cretaceous period (~85 million years ago)

3. Meghalayan Age Caves, Meghalaya
- Includes Mawmluh Cave, the global reference point for the Meghalayan Age in the Holocene Epoch

4. Naga Hill Ophiolite, Nagaland
- Exposes oceanic crust uplifted onto continental plates—key for tectonic studies

5. Erra Matti Dibbalu (Red Sand Hills), Andhra Pradesh
- Unique red sand formations revealing paleo-climatic and coastal geomorphological history

6. Natural Heritage of Tirumala Hills, Andhra Pradesh
- Features the Eparchaean Unconformity and Silathoranam (Natural Arch), showcasing 1.5 billion years of Earth’s history

7. Varkala Cliffs, Kerala
- Coastal cliffs exposing Mio-Pliocene Warkalli Formation, with natural springs and erosional landforms

India’s Global Heritage Commitment:
This milestone reflects India’s dedication to preserving its geological and ecological treasures. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) played a key role in compiling and submitting these nominations. It’s also worth noting that India hosted the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee in July 2024, welcoming over 2,000 delegates from 140+ countries.