A Historic Milestone in India’s Heritage Journey
“Maratha Military Landscapes of India” was inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in July 2025, marking a momentous occasion in India’s cultural legacy. The inscription recognizes a serial site of 12 strategically dispersed forts, mainly in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu, showcasing the ingenuity of Maratha military architecture from the late 17th to early 19th centuries. This addition elevates India’s total to 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, solidifying its position among the top countries globally in cultural and natural heritage.
Unpacking the Maratha Military Landscapes
What exactly is included?
The inscription encompasses 12 forts:
- Maharashtra: Salher, Shivneri, Lohagad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg
- Tamil Nadu: Gingee Fort
Geographic Diversity
These forts are strategically located across varied terrains—the Sahyadri ranges, coastal belts, plateaus, and hills—forming an integrated defensive network of Maratha Military Landscapes that underscored Maratha dominance over land and sea.
UNESCO Criteria
The nomination was accepted under Criteria (iv) (architecture as outstanding example) and (vi) (association with significant historical events and traditions) having “Outstanding Universal Value”.
Historical Significance – Tales from the Forts
Raigad Fort: The Maratha capital, coronation site of Shivaji in 1674, and vibrant symbol of sovereignty, perched atop a steep terrain and designed for defense and visibility.
Pratapgad Fort: Scene of the dramatic Battle of Pratapgad in 1659, where Shivaji outwitted and defeated Afzal Khan.
Lohagad Fort: Near Pune, once a treasury and trade route guardian; known for its distinctive “scorpion’s tail” wall.
Panhala Fort: A fortified stronghold with vast corridors, secret tunnels, underground granaries—built for sustained defense during prolonged sieges.
Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, Sindhudurg, Vijaydurg: Island and coastal forts showcasing Maratha naval strategy and maritime resilience.
Gingee Fort (Tamil Nadu): A rugged hill fort, often called the “Troy of the East,” reflecting Maratha expansion into the south.
Each fort reflects a distinct blend of geography, engineering, and military genius, giving insights into how the Marathas adapted to diverse landscapes to build impenetrable strongholds.
The Journey to UNESCO Inscription
Nomination & Deliberation
The nomination entered the Tentative List in 2021, followed by surveys and evaluations. In early 2025, a delegation presented the case in Paris. Initially, ICOMOS recommended deferral, citing concerns about whether the forts functioned as an integrated system. However, India’s diplomatic efforts and support from other nations helped overturn this, leading to the eventual inscription of Maratha Military Landscapes during the 47th World Heritage Committee session in July 2025.
Regional & Political Impacts
The inscription became a matter of pride and a symbol of political significance in Marathi. It amplified regional identity, energized cultural narratives, and fed into political discourse ahead of elections in Maharashtra.
Benefits: Tourism, Conservation, and Community Uplift
Tourism Momentum
UNESCO recognition is set to boost heritage tourism through Maratha Military Landscapes—drawing history buffs, trekkers, and heritage travelers to explore forts like Shivneri (birthplace of Shivaji), Panhala, and Vijaydurg.
Conservation Efforts
Enhanced protection and restoration programs have been initiated. For instance, following the listing, conservation plans were launched for forts around Salher, complete with signage, security, infrastructure, and local guide training.
New Heritage Pilgrimage: “Shivteerth Yatra”
A creative proposal by a mountaineering group, aiming to connect all 12 UNESCO-listed forts via a heritage bus circuit starting at Shivneri Fort. This “Shivteerth Yatra” envisions revamped transportation and infrastructure to make these sites accessible to a diverse range of visitors, including women and rural tourists.
Why It Matters: Cultural Legacy and Global Recognition
Celebrating Maratha Legacy
The inscription re-centers Maratha strategic innovation in India’s historical narrative—something that was often overshadowed by Mughal or Rajput heritage elsewhere. It spotlights the Marathas’ expertise in fort architecture, self-rule, and regional governance.
India on the Global Stage
With this, India’s tally of UNESCO World Heritage Sites hits 44, standing as the sixth-highest in the world and second-highest in the Asia-Pacific. This reaffirms India’s commitment to preserving its diverse, layered heritage via Maratha Military Landscapes.
A Heritage of Strength, Strategy, and Sovereignty
The inscription of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is more than a symbolic accolade—it’s a celebration of architectural ingenuity, historical significance, and regional pride. These forts, spanning hilltops, islands, and coastal terrains, are enduring testaments to the Marathas’ strategic mastery and cultural resilience.
As awareness grows, these forts are poised to draw travelers, historians, and students alike—ensuring this heritage thrives for generations. This UNESCO recognition brings overdue global attention to a legacy engraved in stone, landscape, and legend.
