India is a land rich with history and culture and presence of various kings, kingdoms and saints has blessed this country with several architectural marvels, buildings and feats of engineering and some of them have now been listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. As India is a vast country with several heritage sites, here we are focussing on heritage sites in South India.
Pattadakal
Situated on the banks of Malaprabha River in Bagalkot district of North Karnataka, this group of monuments in Pattadakal were built in 8th century by the Chalukyas to commemorate their victory over the Pallavas. The monuments depict vesara style of Hindu temple architecture. The monuments were designated a World Heritage Site in 1987.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Completed and opened for public in 1899 the Nilgiri Mountain Railway was initially operated by Madras Railway. This meter gauge route has 250 bridges and 16 tunnels which are all in excellent condition. UNESCO listed it is as world heritage sites in 2005.
Hampi
Having served as the capital of the glorious Vijayanagara Empire, the destination has been listed as world heritage site. A large number of tourists come here to take part in Hampi festival organised every year.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram
Dedicated to Lord Shiva Brihadeeswara temple which is one of the three 'Great living Chola Temples', at Gangaikonda Cholapuram was built to commemorate the victory of the Cholas over the Pala dynasty. This one of the finest examples of Tamil Architecture has been listed as UNESCO world heritage site.
Darasuram
Airavateswara temple in Darasuram built by Raja Raja Chola II is the third 'Great Living Chola Temples', and a world heritage site. Situated near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu this Hindu temple is well known for its great Dravidian architecture.
Mahabalipuram
Most of the tourists flying to Chennai from London never miss an opportunity to visit Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram a tourist destination known for its stone carvings. The place is situated at 60km from Chennai making it good excursions from Chennai.
Periyar Sanctuary
Periyar Sanctuary is also among UNESCO world heritage site. Situated in the Indian state of Kerala, this protected tiger and elephant reserve is situated on the border with Tamil Nadu.
Neyyar Sanctuary
Situated in the Indian state of Kerala the southeast corner of the Western Ghats, Neyyar wildlife Sanctuary is spread over a total area of 128 sq km. The sanctuary is best known for its conservation effort.
In short, those visiting South India would have opportunity to explore several heritage sites that speak volume about the history of the region.