Bhopal UNESCO has recognized four of Madhya Pradesh’s historical heritage sites: Ashokan edict sites, Chausath Yogini temples, Gupta era temples, and Bundela dynasty fortifications.

These historical monuments, which are spread throughout the state, have earned a spot on the preliminary list for UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

This puts the state’s total number of UNESCO World Heritage sites at 18, with three on the permanent list and 15 on the tentative list.

Currently, Madhya Pradesh is home to three UNESCO monuments (permanent list): the Raisen district’s Khajuraho temple complex, Sanchi Stupa, and Bhimbetka.

With rock and pillar inscriptions that describe Emperor Ashoka’s teachings on Buddhism, government, and ethics that have been survived for more than 2,200 years, Ashokan edict sites along the Mauryan roads are considered India’s oldest written documents.

Sanchi pillar edicts, Rupnath minor rock edicts in Jabalpur, Gujjara minor rock edicts in Datia, and Panguraria minor rock edicts in Sehore are among the sights Madhya Pradesh has to offer tourists.

Nestled in the regions of Khajuraho, Morena, Jabalpur, Mandsaur, and Shahdol, Chausath Yogini temples, which date back to the ninth and twelfth centuries, exemplify tantric traditions with their distinctive circular, open-air designs, elaborate stone carvings, and profound spiritual importance.

According to a statement from the Madhya Pradesh Tourism department, the Gupta-era temples that have been added to the tentative list are the Udaigiri temple in Vidisha, the Nachna temple in Panna, the Tigawa temple in Katni, the Bhumara temple in Satna, the Sakor temple in Damoh, the Deori temple in Sagar, and the Pawaya temple in Gwalior.

The provisional list also includes palace-fortresses from the Bundela period, including Garhkundar, Raja Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, and Datia Palace.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed his joy on the occasion, saying that the state’s commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural preservation is shown by the designation of these important locations.

“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s direction, the state has made significant progress in showcasing its cultural heritage globally.

“The state’s dedication to conserving its priceless legacy is demonstrated by this recognition,” Chief Minister Yadav said.