1. MAJULI ISLAND, ASSAM

Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island, lies nestled in the Brahmaputra River in Assam. This island is not just a geographical marvel but a cultural and spiritual hub of the Neo-Vaishnavite movement started by Srimanta Sankardeva in the 15th century. The numerous satras (monasteries) here preserve rare manuscripts, traditional dances like Sattriya, and other forms of artistic expression. The island’s unique lifestyle, biodiversity, and fragile ecosystem, threatened by soil erosion and climate change, make it a strong candidate for World Heritage status. Its inclusion could promote sustainable tourism and draw attention to conservation efforts.

2. SACRED ENSEMBLES OF HOYSALA TEMPLES, KARNATAKA

Though some Hoysala temples have already received recognition (like the Chennakeshava Temple at Belur), many more across Karnataka still await global acknowledgment. The temples at Halebidu, Somnathpura, and lesser-known sites like Aralaguppe and Mosale are masterpieces of intricate stone architecture and craftsmanship. These temples, dating from the 12th to 14th centuries, exemplify Hoysala architecture with their star-shaped platforms, soapstone carvings, and rich narrative friezes. Their preservation and promotion could contribute to a broader appreciation of medieval South Indian temple architecture.

3. MEGHALAYA’S LIVING ROOT BRIDGES

Crafted by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes of Meghalaya, living root bridges are a spectacular blend of human ingenuity and nature. These bridges, formed by training the aerial roots of rubber trees over decades, can last centuries and withstand harsh monsoons. While they are currently on UNESCO’s tentative list, they deserve full recognition for their ecological, cultural, and engineering significance. Living root bridges embody sustainable living and adaptation to extreme environments—values that are crucial in today’s climate-conscious world.

4. MANDU, MADHYA PRADESH

The ancient city of Mandu, perched on a plateau in Madhya Pradesh, is a testament to medieval romance and military architecture. It was once a flourishing capital under the Malwa Sultanate, blending Afghan, Hindu, and Persian architectural elements. Landmarks like the Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace), Hindola Mahal (Swing Palace), and the tomb of Hoshang Shah make Mandu a historic treasure. Despite its charm and layered history, Mandu remains underappreciated. As a heritage site, it could shed light on the architectural innovations of the Deccan sultanates and serve as a window into India’s syncretic past.

5. MARATHA MILITARY FORTS OF MAHARASHTRA

The forts built and restored by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Marathas are scattered across Maharashtra, from sea-facing Sindhudurg to the hill forts like Raigad, Rajgad, and Pratapgad. These forts exemplify adaptive military architecture that utilized natural topography for defense. A serial nomination of Maratha forts would not only honor the Maratha legacy but also fill a gap in representing pre-modern Indian military architecture on the UNESCO list. These structures played a critical role in resisting colonial invasions and preserving regional autonomy.

6. BISHNUPUR TEMPLES, WEST BENGAL

Famed for their terracotta temples, the town of Bishnupur in West Bengal flourished under the patronage of the Malla kings from the 17th century. The temples are notable for their curved "chala" roofs and extensive terracotta panels depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and daily rural life. These temples are rare surviving examples of Bengal’s indigenous temple architecture and craftsmanship. A UNESCO tag would help preserve the unique temple-building tradition and draw global attention to a lesser-explored region of India.

7. LOTHAL, GUJARAT

Lothal is one of the most prominent cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and home to what is believed to be the world’s earliest known dock. This archaeological site provides invaluable insights into the advanced urban planning, maritime trade, and craftsmanship of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Although Lothal is already on the tentative list, it hasn’t yet received full World Heritage Site status. Given its significance, especially in maritime archaeology, it would be a deserving addition to UNESCO’s roster.

8. ARUNACHAL PRADESH’S APATANI CULTURAL LANDSCAPE

The Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh has developed a unique way of sustainable farming in the Ziro Valley, combining wet-rice cultivation with organic fish farming. Their intricate knowledge of forestry, water management, and eco-friendly practices showcases a harmonious relationship between humans and nature. In addition to their ecological practices, the Apatanis’ distinct cultural identity, festivals, and architecture offer a compelling case for inclusion. Recognition could help preserve indigenous cultures and their traditional knowledge systems under the pressure of modernization.

9. UNAKOTI, TRIPURA

Often dubbed as the "Angkor Wat of the East," Unakoti in Tripura is an awe-inspiring site with massive rock carvings of Hindu deities. The site, with sculptures dating back to the 7th-9th century, is wrapped in legends and mystery, featuring faces as tall as 30 feet. Despite its archaeological importance and sheer grandeur, Unakoti remains relatively unknown on the global stage. A UNESCO tag could transform it into a major heritage destination while encouraging its preservation.

10. VALLEY OF FLOWERS, KAAS PLATEAU, MAHARASHTRA

Though the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand has UNESCO recognition, the lesser-known Kaas Plateau near Satara in Maharashtra is equally deserving. Also known as the "Plateau of a Million Flowers," Kaas is a biodiversity hotspot with over 850 species of flowering plants, many of which are endemic. Kaas is an excellent example of seasonal, delicate biodiversity dependent on specific climatic conditions. Recognizing this area could encourage environmental protection and sustainable tourism in the Western Ghats.