7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit in India- National Parks
Introduction
India, the seventh-largest country in the world, is known for its diverse landscapes, from the Himalayas to Goa’s beaches. With 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on their lap, below are seven notable national parks to explore for nature lovers.
- Great Himalayan National Park
Located in Himachal Pradesh in northern India, the Great Himalayan National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its exceptional importance for biodiversity conservation. The park features breathtaking snow-covered peaks, lush green mountains, untouched forests, picturesque waterfalls, and pristine rivers. It is home to over 1,000 species of plants and a wide array of wildlife, including endangered species like the musk deer, western tragopan, and snow leopards. This natural gem is a must-visit for nature lovers and conservationists.
- Khangchendzonga National Park
Nestled around the majestic Kangchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak, Khangchendzonga National Park is a stunning and rugged federally protected area in northwestern Sikkim. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, cultural heritage, and rich biodiversity. Revered as a sacred site by Buddhists and the Lepcha community, the park symbolizes harmony among diverse religions and ethnic groups. It also shelters rare and endangered species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan tahr, making it a treasure trove for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Kaziranga National Park
Located in Assam, Kaziranga National Park is home to over 2,200 Indian one-horned rhinoceroses, along with a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, panthers, bears, and countless bird species. The park is characterized by its lush elephant-grass meadows, swampy lagoons, marshlands, and dense tropical forests. It also serves as a key breeding habitat for elephants, wild water buffaloes, and swamp deer. Owing to its growing tiger population, Kaziranga has also been recognized as a Tiger Reserve.
- Keoladeo Ghana National Park
Keoladeo Ghana National Park, also called Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, and is recognized as one of the world's most significant bird breeding and feeding sites. It hosts around 370 species of native and migratory birds, including numerous aquatic species from Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, China, and Siberia. Formerly a royal hunting ground for Maharajas and the British, the park also supports a variety of wildlife, including deer, nilgai, and reptiles like the basking python.
- Manas National Park
Manas National Park, also called Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, is located in Assam and renowned for its tigers and tiger conservation efforts. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas, the park features alluvial grasslands and tropical forests. It is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including endangered species such as tigers, pygmy hogs, hispid hares, golden langurs, Indian rhinoceroses, and Indian elephants.
- Nanda Devi National Park and Valley of Flowers
Located in Uttarakhand, this national park boasts remarkable biodiversity, including several globally threatened species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, Asiatic black bear, Himalayan brown bear, Bharal, and Himalayan tahr. Its breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude lakes, alpine meadows, and towering peaks attract visitors from around the world. The Valley of Flowers National Park is celebrated for its vibrant meadows of endemic alpine flowers and extraordinary natural beauty. Together with Nanda Devi National Park, it forms a unique transitional zone between the Zanskar and Great Himalayan mountain ranges.
- Sundarbans National Park
Located in West Bengal, Sundarbans National Park is renowned as the largest halophytic mangrove forest in the world. This park is home to globally endangered species, including Royal Bengal tigers, Ganges and Irawady dolphins, estuarine crocodiles, and the critically endangered river terrapin (Batagur Baska). It holds the status of a biosphere reserve, national park, and tiger reserve.
Conclusion
India is a land of vibrant culture, abundant natural beauty, diverse festivals, and deep-rooted traditions. From magnificent forts to lush forests, this country offers something special for every occasion. Whatever your interests may be, India has something to captivate you. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to pack your bags and immerse yourself in the wonders of this incredible destination!
