UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Karnataka, India (2024 Update)

As of 2024, Karnataka has 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites—a mix of cultural monuments and natural landscapes spanning 1,500 years of history.

Cultural Sites (6)

1. Group of Monuments at Hampi (1986) – Vijayanagara Empire's ruined capital. 1,600+ structures across 41 sq km.
2. Pattadakal (1987) – 7th-8th century Chalukya temples blending Nagara and Dravidian styles.
3. Aihole (2023) – "Cradle of Indian temple architecture," 120+ early Chalukya temples (6th-12th c.).
4. Badami Cave Temples (2023) – 4 rock-cut caves (6th-7th c.) with exquisite sculpture.
5. Vijayanagara (2023) – Expanded inscription covering the greater imperial capital region.
6. Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur (2023) – 17th century Deccan sultanate mausoleum with world's second-largest dome.

Natural Site (1)

7. Western Ghats (2012) – Biodiversity hotspot. Karnataka sections: Kudremukh, Pushpagiri, Brahmagiri, Talakaveri.

Correction: The 8th Entry

The Baha'i House of Worship (Lotus Temple) is in Delhi, not Karnataka. The 8th Karnataka site is the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas (2023)—three 12th-13th century temples at Belur, Halebidu, and Somnathapura showcasing Hoysala architecture's signature stellate plans and intricate soapstone carving.

Karnataka now ties Maharashtra for most UNESCO sites in any Indian state.