By Mervin Preethi 16 April 2025
This World Heritage Day, journey through Maharashtra’s five UNESCO World Heritage Sites — each echoing centuries of art, history, and culture.
Hidden in the Sahyadri hills, the Ajanta Caves were carved by Buddhist monks between the 2nd century BCE and 6th century CE in the Aurangabad district.
Credits: UNESCO
UNESCO recognised Ajanta in 1983 for its ancient murals, frescoes, and chaitya halls that illustrate the brilliance of Indian rock-cut architecture.
Credits: UNESCO
Near Aurangabad, Ellora houses 34 caves built between the 6th and 10th centuries, showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments.
Credits: Incredible India
Recognised in 1983, Ellora represents India’s spirit of religious tolerance and artistic excellence through its magnificent rock-hewn structures.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, formerly called Victoria Terminus, was designed by Frederick William Stevens and opened in 1887 in South Mumbai.
Credits: Google Arts & Culture
In 2004, UNESCO listed CST for its unique blend of Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian architectural styles, symbolising colonial Mumbai.
Located on Elephanta Island near Mumbai, the caves were created between the 5th and 8th centuries and house striking rock-cut sculptures of Shiva.
Credits: Astropedia
Awarded heritage status in 1987, the site stands out for its masterful stone carvings, including the iconic Trimurti – a symbol of divine power.
This stretch of buildings from Oval Maidan to Marine Drive reflects Mumbai’s 19th-century Gothic and early 20th-century Art Deco aspirations.
5. Victorian gothic and art deco ensembles
Credits: Shutterstock
Designated in 2018, these ensembles mark a unique meeting point of Indian and European aesthetics during the city’s urban transformation.
Credits: Fab Hotels