North-East India is among the most beautiful parts of India that you must see at least once in your life. The UNESCO World Heritage sites in India’s Northeast region exhibit its unique cultural and historical heritage and natural beauty. Eco-friendly tourism destinations, amazing culinary delights, scenic national parks, and peaceful Buddhist temples greet visitors to this region.
In this article, we will look at the North East India UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We will understand their significance and what makes them unique. Let’s explore the historical and cultural background of these places. We will also explore their ecological importance and efforts to conserve them for future generations.
Overall, in this article, we will overview North East India’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Because these heritage sites contribute to the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Top 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in North East India for a Soul-Stirring Travel Experience
1. Kaziranga National Park
One-horned rhinoceros can be found in Kaziranga National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northeast India represents one of the few untouched, unspoiled natural areas in the Brahmaputra River floodplain. The park is home to various animals, including tigers, wild water buffalo, elephants, bears, & aquatic species such as the Ganges River Dolphin.
It is also recognized as one of the best wildlife refuges in the world. Apart from that, the park has been crucial in bringing the Indian one-horned rhinoceros back from the verge of extinction.
Explore More:
- Why Kaziranga National Park is Famous? 10 Interesting Facts
- How to Reach Kaziranga National Park By Air, Rail, and Road
2. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the northeast Indian state of Assam. It is a biodiversity hotspot. It spans the Manas River and is surrounded to the north by the woods of Bhutan. It covers an area of 39,100 hectares. The Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is located amid the shifting river channels of the Manas River. It is a part of the core zone of the 283,700-hectare Manas Tiger Reserve.
The magnificent beauty of the place encompasses forested hills, alluvial plains, & tropical evergreen woods. The location provides essential and sustainable habitat for endangered and rare species such as the Bengal florican, tiger, one-horned rhino, swamp deer, and pygmy hog. Manas has great importance among the Indian subcontinent’s protected areas. Since it is one of the region’s most significant surviving natural habitats, where large populations of a variety of critically endangered species continue to survive.
3. Khangchendzonga National Park
Khangchendzonga is situated in North Sikkim. The Khangchendzonga National Park was the country’s first “mixed heritage” national park. It is ideal for hiking, trekking, seeing stunning landscapes, & visiting holy monasteries since it is culturally and geographically rich. Visitors may also see Red Pandas, Snow Leopards, Big Tibetan Sheep, and the famed Zemu Glacier. Moreover, the park is home to 17 glaciers and alpine lakes. It offers spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
The best time to visit National Park Khangchendzonga is between March and May. You can also visit between September and mid-December.
4. Apatani Cultural Landscape, Arunachal Pradesh
The Apatanis are a large ethnic group in the eastern Himalayas. It has a distinct culture characterized by systematic land use practices and a long natural resource conservation and management history. They have acquired knowledge via casual experimentation over the decades.
The Tribe is famous for its incredible culture, rich festivals, bamboo and cane crafts, and handloom designs. The Ziro Valley illustrates a healthy interaction between man and nature, supported by ancient rituals and spiritual beliefs.
5. Charaideo Moidams
Charaideo Moidams are ancient Assamese burial sites of the Ahom dynasty. It is renowned for its unique cone-shaped buildings built of brick and dirt. These moidams are also known as the Assam pyramids. It served as the final resting place for Ahom rulers and nobles. The site, which dates back to the 13th century, is an essential element of Assam’s cultural legacy and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The first capital of the Ahom Dynasty was Charaideo. King Chaolung Sukapha established it in 1229 CE, and it was renowned as the “shining town on a hilltop”. Although relocated multiple times during the Ahom kingdom’s 600-year reign, Charaideo stayed as a symbol of power and grandeur.
6. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh
Namdapha National Park & Tiger Reserve is situated in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The beautiful woodland has an area of 1985.23 square kilometers. It was recognized as a wildlife reserve in 1972.
The landscape is primarily hilly, with steep mountains. Nonetheless, some moderate hills intersected by various rivers, such as the Lati, Lai, Lang, & Kamlang, and other streams and brooks. It is one of India’s largest national parks, with over 1,000 kinds of flora and 1,400 species of wildlife, including rare and endangered species. Namdapha is the only park in the world with all four large cat species (Leopard, Tiger, Snow Leopard, & Clouded Leopard) and other smaller cat species. Read More: Namdapha National Park Travel Guide: Attractions, Entry Fees and Accommodation
7. Majuli, Assam
This river island has the perfect blend of culture, history, and sightseeing. Majuli is located on the Brahmaputra River in Assam. It is the ideal getaway to escape city life’s hustle and bustle. There is also a bicycle culture that encourages tourists to help Majuli become India’s first carbon-neutral district.
Because of the Satras, or monasteries devoted to Lord Vishnu, the river island uniquely appeals to spiritual travelers. The island is only accessible during daytime hours by boat. Even the travel to Majuli is an adventure in and of itself!
Seasonal vegetables and fruits such as oranges, bananas, pineapples, and jackfruit are abundantly grown. More read: Majuli Island: A Travel Guide to the World’s Largest River Island
8. Rock-cut Sculptures and Reliefs, Unakoti
Unakoti is a rock-cut archaeological city in Tripura. It is about 180 kilometers from the state capital of Agartala. It’s famous for its ancient rock-cut sculptures and carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses. The locals see Unakoti as a historic sacred spot associated with Saiva worship. Unakoti’s rock carvings are in a magnificent location between rich green flora.
A sculpture of a dancing Ganesha & a sculpture of a seven-headed serpent is among the most famous carvings. The location is currently a renowned tourist and pilgrimage attraction. People come to witness the fantastic carvings and enjoy the extraordinary beauty of this beautiful spot.
Conclusion
We have listed the Top 8 UNESCO Sites in North East India above. The UNESCO World Heritage sites in India’s Northeast area showcase the region’s unique cultural and historical history and natural beauty. You must visit these world heritage sites to learn more about our ancient history. The fantastic arts, old buildings, and natural beauty will amaze you. If you are planning to visit any of these sites, your visit will be worth it.
Further Reading:
- Sangai Festival Manipur 2024: A Festival of North East India
- 10 Places to See in North East India August 2024
- A Solo Traveler Guide to North East India
- Popular Monasteries in North East India
- Best Time to Visit North East India – Month-by-Month Guide
- 10 Famous Snowfall Destinations North East India
- Top Destinations to See in North East India in November 2024
- 10 Popular Romantic Sunset Points in North East India
