In a step to further interpellate itself in global heritage recognition, India nominated Vadnagar, the hometown of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for UNESCO World Heritage status on 17 September, 2025. The day chosen for the nomination also coincided with Modi's 75th birthday. Just the same, the city is known for its historicity and continuous human settlement spanning 2,700 years in Western India. Made by India’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO in Paris, the submission places the ancient Gujarat town on the path towards international acknowledgement for its cultural and archaeological importance. Vishal V Sharma, India’s Ambassador to UNESCO, emphasised the site’s antiquity, dating back to 800–900 BCE, and its multifaceted history as a fortified urban centre, religious hub and trade settlement.
It now lies within the discretion of UNESCO, which will undertake a two-step evaluation process, to decide if the site qualifies for the said crowning. The World Heritage Centre will first assess whether Vadnagar demonstrates “Outstanding Universal Value” and if it meets requirements of conservation and management. This will be followed by expert inspections by advisory bodies such as ICOMOS before the town can be considered for inscription on the World Heritage List.
Vadnagar has been under UNESCO’s watch since December 2022, when it was included in India’s Tentative List—a prerequisite stage for full nomination. Listed as Vadnagar – A Multi-layered Historic Town, Gujarat, it was recognised for its archaeological depth and urban continuity.
Alongside Vadnagar, two other culturally significant Indian sites were added to the Tentative List in the same year: the Sun Temple at Modhera in Gujarat and the rock-cut sculptures of Unakoti in Tripura. The Modhera temple, built in the 11th century, is a striking example of Māru-Gurjara architecture, while the Unakoti reliefs, dating to the 8th–9th centuries, feature colossal carvings of Hindu deities.
Situated in Gujarat’s Mehsana district, Vadnagar is regarded as one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited towns. Archaeological excavations have revealed at least seven cultural phases, from pre-2nd century BCE through to the 19th century.
The town’s heritage is visible in its medieval temples, fortification walls, water systems, Buddhist monastery remains and the 12th-century Kirti Torans, which are striking twin arches. Vadnagar’s geography, centred around Sharmistha Lake, further highlights its historical role as a planned settlement.
Recent excavations have uncovered artefacts including Mesopotamian jars, Roman coin impressions, Greco-Indian moulds, Mamluk gold coins and thousands of shell bangles—evidence of extensive cultural and trade connections. In January 2025, the Vadnagar Archaeological Experiential Museum opened, showcasing more than 5,000 artefacts to the public and offering insights into the town’s historical layers.
India already has 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and with nearly 70 more on the Tentative List, Vadnagar’s nomination would be another addition on the global stage. However, the process is rigorous. UNESCO will evaluate not just historical and archaeological importance, but also measures of authenticity, integrity, protection and sustainable management.
If approved, Vadnagar would join the ranks of globally recognised Indian heritage sites such as Hampi, the Sun Temple at Konark, Jaipur’s walled city and Kaziranga National Park. For Vadnagar, the nomination itself elevates its profile, reinforcing its layered cultural past and, in the process, giving a passing nod to its contemporary relevance as the Prime Minister’s birthplace.
Q1. Why has Vadnagar been nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status?
Vadnagar has been nominated due to its antiquity, continuous habitation for over 2,700 years, and its role as a religious, cultural and trade hub. Archaeological finds show connections with regions as far as Mesopotamia and Rome.
Q2. Was Vadnagar already on UNESCO’s Tentative List?
Yes. Vadnagar was added to UNESCO’s Tentative List in December 2022, along with the Sun Temple at Modhera in Gujarat and the rock-cut sculptures of Unakoti in Tripura.
Q3. What makes Vadnagar historically significant?
Vadnagar is known for its multi-layered history, with seven cultural phases identified through excavations. Heritage sites include the 12th-century Kirti Torans, Sharmistha Lake, Buddhist monastery remains, and medieval temples.
Q4. How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites does India currently have?
India currently has 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, covering cultural, natural and mixed categories. Nearly 70 more properties remain on India’s Tentative List awaiting nomination.
(With inputs from various sources.)