A deep dive into North India's UNESCO World Heritage Sites
In the rich tapestry of North India lies a collection of cultural and natural treasures that have withstood the test of time. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites stand as living testaments to the region's historical, architectural, and natural significance. North India's UNESCO sites invite travelers on a journey through the annals of history and the splendors of nature. Take a look at these sites.
Red Fort
For more than 200 years, Red Fort, located in the middle of Central Delhi, served as the Mughal Empire's former home and seat. The huge Red Fort complex includes numerous courtyards, royal residences, administrative buildings, conference rooms, prayer rooms, and royal observation decks. In the evenings, Red Fort treats visitors with a light and sound show that narrates Red Fort's history and legacy.
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers
Offering breathtaking views of the rocky yet majestic Himalayan peak of Nanda Devi, the Valley of Flowers and the Nanda Devi mountain combine to create one of North India's most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Asian black bear, Himalayan musk deer, snow leopard, etc. are among the rare and unusual animals found in these two biologically diverse zones.
The Kalka-Shimla Railway
One of the three mountain railway routes in India that is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List is the Kalka-Shimla Railway. The scenic 96 km Kalka-Shimla road meanders through the magnificent Himalayan range. The railway, which was built in the middle of the 1800s to improve access to Shimla, is a testament to the engineering prowess of the era.
Fatehpur Sikri
Located in the town of Fatehpur in Uttar Pradesh, Fatehpur Sikri was constructed as a memorial to the Moghul conqueror Babur's military triumph over the Rajput king Rana Sangram Singh. Fatehpur Sikri was later named the Moghul dynasty's administrative capital in 1571, during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Built largely with red sandstone and white marble, it reflects Hindu and Jain architectural influences.
Qutab Minar
Qutab Minar, a 73-meter tower in South Delhi that dates back to the 12th century, has withstood numerous battles, invasions, and earthquakes. Each of the five stories of the tapering construction features a balcony. The minaret, which represents a fusion of Islamic architecture from the 12th to the 18th centuries, was constructed along the same lines as the minaret of Jam in Afghanistan.
