By Neha Yadav
Published Mar 15, 2024

Hindustan Times
Lifestyle

Photo Credits: Pexels

8 marvellous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South India

South Indian states such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana and Karnataka are home to stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites worth exploring. 

Here are 8 marvellous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South India that you must explore.

Monuments in Hampi, Karnataka

Monuments in Hampi including the Krishna temple complex, Narasimha, Ganesa, Hemakuta group of temples among others were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1986. 

Monuments in Pattadakal, Karnataka

Monuments in Pattadakal include a series of nine Hindu temples, a Jain sactuary and the Virupaksha Temple among others. They were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1987.

Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas

This place is home to Hoysala-style temple complexes dating from the 12th to 13th centuries. They were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2023.

Chola Temples, Tamil Nadu

Built by kings of the Chola Empire, these temples include the Brihadisvara Temple, the Airavatesvara Temple and Gangaikondacholisvaram among others. Chola temples were inscribed to the list in 1987.

Mahabalipuram

The group of monuments in Mahabalipuram inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 include rock-cut caves, temples and excavated remains from 7th and 8th centuries.

Western Ghats

The lush green mountain chain of the Western Ghats, including parts of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2012 for their biological biodiversity.

Nilgiri Mountain Railways

The 46-km long single-track Nilgiri Mountain Railway located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple

Inscribed in 2021, the Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple in Telangana features intricately carved pillars built during the Kakatiya period.