Paris / New Delhi, July 2025 – In a landmark decision at the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris, the Maratha Military Landscapes of India have been officially inscribed as a World Heritage Site — marking India’s 44th entry to the prestigious list.

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This recognition celebrates the architectural brilliance, regional military ingenuity, and enduring legacy of the Maratha Empire, spanning from the 17th to 19th centuries CE. The inscribed cultural property comprises 12 strategically located forts across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu that illustrate the unique evolution of Indian military architecture.
A Network of Strategically Designed Forts
The twelve forts inscribed include:
- Maharashtra: Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg
- Tamil Nadu: Gingee Fort




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These forts reflect a wide variety of typologies:
- Hill forts: Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Rajgad, Gingee
- Hill-forest fort: Pratapgad
- Hill-plateau fort: Panhala
- Coastal fort: Vijaydurg
- Island forts: Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, Sindhudurg

Protected Cultural Heritage
While Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the remaining four—Salher, Rajgad, Khanderi, and Pratapgad—are preserved under the Maharashtra Directorate of Archaeology and Museums.
International Endorsement
India’s proposal received overwhelming support during the Committee session, with 18 out of 20 State Parties endorsing the nomination. Following a 59-minute discussion and strong recommendations from ICOMOS and UNESCO advisory bodies, the site was inscribed under criteria (iv) and (vi) — recognizing its architectural excellence and association with historical traditions. Maratha Military Landscapes
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Cultural Significance and Global Ranking
This global honour emphasizes India’s commitment to conserving its diverse heritage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis hailed this as a proud moment for the country.
India currently ranks 6th globally and 2nd in the Asia-Pacific region for the number of World Heritage Sites. With 62 additional sites in the Tentative List, the country continues to play a key role in global heritage preservation.
The ASI remains the national nodal agency coordinating India’s engagement with the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.
Source: PIB