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Award Category

  • Historical Tourism Award / Heritage Tourism Award

    (For the best state promoting heritage tourism. Categories: Best Site, Best City, Best State.)
    Who can apply: Central and State government bodies, NGOs

  • Riverside Heritage Tourism Award

    Riverside properties preserving culture and heritage
    Who can apply: Central and State government bodies, NGOs

  • Best Tourist Circuit / Best Tourist Trail

    Award for states with the best sites for pilgrimages

  • Pilgrimage and Spiritual Tourism Award

    (Recognises important pilgrimage tourism circuits)
    Who can apply: State governments / NGOs

  • Traditional Skills Award / Crafts and Creativity Award

    (For exponents of traditional art forms who train others, and for individuals skilled in handicrafts, weaving, etc.)
    Who can apply: State governments, institutions such as Lalit Kala Akademi, groups of artists, NGOs, State handicrafts bodies, groups of artisans, NGOs promoting cultural crafts

  • Best Cultural Music & Dance Award

    (For musicians and dancers who train others in traditional music or dance forms)
    Who can apply: State governments, institutions such as Sangeet Natak Akademi, groups of artists, NGOs

  • Best Travel Operator

    Who can apply: Travel operators, institutions

  • Best Advertising Agency

    (Award for ad campaigns, ad films on tourism, etc.)
    Who can apply: Advertising agencies

  • Best Creative

    (Award for ad campaigns, ad films on tourism, etc.)
    Who can apply: Advertising agencies

NOTE: In case, insufficient nominations are received in a particular category, jury's wisdom will prevail.

Submission Guidelines and Questions

Historical Tourism Award / Heritage Tourism Award

  • Brief description of nominated state, city or site.
  • Unique architectural or cultural features.
  • Steps taken for preservation/restoration in the last 3 years.
  • Annual visitor numbers (last 3 years), if available.
  • Community involvement in heritage promotion.
  • Promotional and marketing activities undertaken.

    • Riverside Heritage Tourism Award

  • Cultural and heritage value of the site.
  • Initiatives for preserving natural and cultural heritage.
  • Visitor/tourist numbers (last 3 years).
  • Community involvement in maintenance/promotion.
  • Environmental and sustainability measures; tourist facilities including toilets and disabled-friendly measures.
  • Events or festivals organised.

Best Tourist Circuit / Best Tourist Trail

  • Name of circuit; theme and destinations/sites included.
  • Cultural/historical importance.
  • Tourist facilities and infrastructure available.
  • Annual visitor numbers (last 3 years).
  • Promotional and outreach activities.
  • Integration with Swadesh Darshan or other schemes.
  • Provide map and pictures of the circuit/sites.

Pilgrimage and Spiritual Tourism Award

  • Spiritual/religious significance of the circuit.
  • Facilities and amenities for pilgrims.
  • Preservation and cleanliness measures.
  • Annual visitor numbers (domestic & international) for last 3 years.
  • Integration with PRASAD or similar schemes.
  • Community/religious body involvement.
  • Photos/videos of sites and events.

Traditional Skills Award / Crafts and Creativity Award

  • Name of artist/group/organisation.
  • Traditional skill/craft practiced and its heritage link.
  • Years of active practice.
  • Number of people trained in the last 3 years.
  • Innovations or modern adaptations introduced.
  • Market linkages and promotional activities.
  • Support from government/NGOs.
  • Photographs of work/products.

Best Cultural Music & Dance Award

  • Name of artist/group/institution.
  • Music/dance form practiced and heritage roots.
  • Years of performance and training activity.
  • Number of students trained (last 3 years).
  • Major performances or festivals participated in.
  • Innovations while preserving tradition.
  • Collaborations with cultural bodies.
  • Photos/videos of performances.

Best Advertising Agency

  • Name of campaign/ad/film.
  • Concept and creative approach.
  • Target audience and reach.
  • Key results achieved (engagement, visitor growth, brand awareness).
  • Awards or recognitions received.
  • Links to campaign materials.

Best Creative

  • Name of creative work/project.
  • Theme and inspiration.
  • Unique creative features.
  • Target audience.
  • Measurable results achieved.
  • Photos/videos of the creative work.

Who can apply

State tourism boards

State government tourism bodies

Travel associations

Professionals from the heritage sectors

Travel writers & bloggers

Travel agents

Jury Members

Arvind Singh

Tourism Secretary (retd), Government of India

Ashwani Lohani

Former CMD, ITDC

Ratish Nanda

CEO, Aga Khan Trust for Culture India

Pratul Sharma

Senior Assistant Editor, THE WEEK

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

MOIDAMS – THE MOUND-BURIAL SYSTEM OF THE AHOM DYNASTY (2024)

Location: Assam, India

Situated at the foothills of the Patkai Ranges in eastern Assam, Moidams are royal necropolises of the Tai-Ahom dynasty. These mound-burial structures hold profound cultural and spiritual significance for the Tai-Ahom community.

Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas (2023)

Location: Karnataka

The Hoysala temples, including the Chennakesava, Hoysaleswara, and Keshava temples, are known for their detailed carvings, star-shaped layouts, and detailed sculptures, showcasing a distinct form of Dravidian temple architecture.

Santiniketan (2023)

Location: West Bengal

Founded by Rabindranath Tagore, Santiniketan later became Visva-Bharati University. It emphasises cultural interchange, art, and education, blending Indian traditions with global influences in architecture and philosophy.

Dholavira: A HARAPPAN CITY (2021)

Location: Dholavira, Gujarat

Discovered in 1968, Dholavira is one of the largest cities of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Known for its advanced water management systems, security features, and extensive use of stone in construction, it is a remarkable testament to Harappan ingenuity.

KAKATIYA RUDRESHWARA (RAMAPPA) TEMPLE, TELANGANA (2021)

Location: Hyderabad, Telangana,

Built during the Kakatiya period by rulers Rudradeva and Recharla Rudra, the Ramappa Temple is notable for its intricate cravings and lightweight floating bricks used in its pyramidal vimana. The sandstone temple is a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

JAIPUR CITY, RAJASTHAN (2019)

Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan

Founded in 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur stands out as a planned city designed using a grid layout inspired by Vedic architecture. Originally established as a commercial hub, Jaipur has preserved its artisanal and trade traditions over centuries.

Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai (2018)

Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

This architectural ensemble, which includes icons like the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Marine Drive, combines 19th-century Victorian Gothic architecture and 20th-century Art Deco styles, reflecting Mumbai's colonial and modern heritage.

HISTORIC CITY OF AHMADABAD (2017)

Location: Ahmedabad, India

Founded in the 15th century by Sultan Ahmad Shah, the walled city of Ahmedabad, on the eastern bank of the Sabarmati River, showcases a rich architectural heritage from the sultanate era.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF NALANDA MAHAVIHARA (2016)

Location: Nalanda, Bihar

Situated about 88km from Patna, the Nalanda Mahavihara was founded in the 5th century CE by Kumargupta I of the Gupta dynasty. This site served as a significant centre of learning and is one of India’s most important archaeological landmarks.

The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement (2016)

Location: Chandigarh

Le Corbusier's urban planning for Chandigarh, including the Capitol Complex, represents modernist design that combines functionality and and aesthetics in post-independent India.

Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, Gujarat (2014)

Location: Patan, Gujarat

Built in the 11th century by Rani Udaymati, the intricately carved stepwell on the banks of the Saraswati River is a stunning example of Maru-Gurjara architecture. It serves as both a water reservoir and an underground shrine.

HILL FORTS OF RAJASTHAN (2013)

Location: Rajasthan, India

Located in Rajasthan, this UNESCO site comprises six grand forts in Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Sawai Madhopur, Jhalawar, Jaipur, and Jaisalmer. These forts encompass urban centres, temples, and trading hubs, reflecting a rich courtly culture of learning, music, and art.

The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur (2010)

Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan

Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1734, this astronomical observatory features massive stone equipment for celestial observations, demonstrating India's advanced scientific tradition.

Mountain Railways of India (1999, 2005, 2008)

Location: Darjeeling (West Bengal), Nilgiri (Tamil Nadu), Kalka-Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)

A historic network of narrow-gauge trains built under British rule, these engineering marvels traverse rugged mountain terrain, giving out spectacular views while preserving the legacy of colonial-era railways.

Red Fort Complex (2007)

Location: Delhi

This magnificent fort, built by Muglal emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 is a symbol of Mughal architectural brilliance. Iconic structures inside the complex include Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and the Moti Masjid.

CHAMPANER-PAVAGADH ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK (2004)

Location: Panchmahal, Gujarat

Founded by Sultan Mahmud Begda, this site features monuments on Pavagadh Hill, rising 800 meters above the surrounding plain. Its attractions include palaces, mosques, temples, gateways, wells, and reservoirs, offering a unique blend of natural and historical significance.

CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI TERMINUS (FORMERLY VICTORIA TERMINUS) (2004)

Location: Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra

Designed by British architect F.W. Stevens, this iconic structure was completed in 1888 after ten years of construction. With its stained-glass windows, domed arches, and intricately carved pillars, it reflects a blend of Victorian Gothic and Indian palace architecture.

GREAT LIVING CHOLA TEMPLES (1987, 2004)

Location: Tamil Nadu

Built by the Chola dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries, the Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur), Gangaikondacholeswaram Temple (Gangaikondacholapuram), and Airavatesvara Temple (Darasuram) stand as monumental testaments to Chola architectural and artistic brilliance.

Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (2003)

Location: Madhya Pradesh

This archeological site contains prehistoric rock paintings from the Paleolithic period and the Mesolithic period. The shelters provide insights into early human settlements and artistic expression in India.

MAHABODHI TEMPLE COMPLEX AT BODH GAYA (2002)

Location: Bodh Gaya, Bihar

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the four sacred sites associated with the life of Lord Buddha. It marks the location of his enlightenment and is revered as a pilgrimage destination by Buddhists worldwide.

HUMAYUN’S TOMB, DELHI (1993)

Location: New Delhi, Delhi

Built in 1570, Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent and served as a precursor to Taj Mahal. A collaboration between Persian and Indian craftsmen, it influenced subsequent Mughal architectural innovations.

Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi (1993)

Location: Delhi

The Qutb Minar, a 73-metre-high red sandstone tower, is a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture. Surrounding landmarks such as the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar, showcase Delhi's rich historical and cultural heritage.

BUDDHIST MONUMENTS AT SANCHI (1989)

Location: Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh

The village of Sanchi is famous for its ancient Buddhist monuments, which date from the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE. The Great Stupa, built by Emperor Ashoka, stands on a 300-foot-high hill on the banks of the Betwa River.

ELEPHANTA CAVES (1987)

Location: East of Mumbai Harbour, Maharashtra

Located on an island in the Arabian Sea near Mumbai, the Elephanta Caves house magnificent sculptures, including the Ardhanarishvara statue and depictions of Shiva’s life. Most sculptures date back to the Silhara dynasty (9th to 13th centuries).

GROUP OF MONUMENTS AT PATTADAKAL(1987)

Location: Pattadakal, Karnataka

Pattadakal (Pattadakallu), also known as Raktapura, is a 7th-8th century CE complex in Northern Karnataka. Described by UNESCO as a fusion of northern and southern Indian architecture, it represents the pinnacle of eclectic art.

CHURCHES AND CONVENTS OF GOA (1986)

Location: Goa

These churches and convents, remnants of Portuguese colonial rule, showcase Portuguese architectural styles and Christian heritage in India. They were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

GROUP OF MONUMENTS AT HAMPI (1986)

Location: Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi, also known as the Hampi Group of Monuments, was once the grand capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. Nestled along the Tungabhadra River amid rocky hills, Hampi’s ruins reflect its historical and architectural legacy.

FATEHPUR SIKRI (1986)

Location: Uttar Pradesh

Fatehpur Sikri, built by Mughal Emperor Akbar, symbolises the architectural and cultural grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Its intricately carved walls and ornate decorations exemplify artistic brilliance.

KHAJURAHO GROUP OF MONUMENTS (1986)

Location: Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Constructed during the 10th and 11th centuries by the Chandella dynasty, the temples at Khujuraho represents the zenith of northern Indian temple architecture. The towering central spire, flanked by smaller spires, epitomises architectural brilliance.

GROUP OF MONUMENTS AT MAHABALIPURAM (1984)

Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Formerly a thriving Pallava port city, Mahabalipuram features monuments such as rock-cut cave temples, monolithic shrines, bas-relief sculptures, and structural temples, along with excavated temple remains. The Shore Temple, adorned with thousands of sculptures, stands as a tribute to Lord Shiva.

Sun Temple, Konârak (1984)

Location: Odisha

Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I, this chariot-shaped temple is devoted to the Sun God Surya. Its exquisite carvings depict celestial and mythological themes, making it a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture.

Taj Mahal (1983)

Location: Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

This white marble monument, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is a Mughal architectural masterpiece that symbolises eternal love incorporating Persian, Indian, and Islamic influences.

AJANTA CAVES (1983)

Location: Aurangabad District, Maharashtra

The Ajanta Caves are renowned for their breathtaking Buddhist sculptures and murals, portraying the life of Buddha and showcasing India’s ancient artistic brilliance. These 30 cave paintings were carved into rock between the 2nd century BCE and the 6th century CE.

ELLORA CAVES (1983)

Location: Aurangabad, Maharashtra

The Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprise 34 caves built between the 4th and 9th centuries CE. These caves reflect religious harmony, with 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu, and 5 Jain structures featuring intricate carvings and towering sculptures.

Articles

Lucknow’s heritage warriors fight a tough and lonely battle

In a tightly packed neighbourhood of narrow lanes and narrower homes in Lucknow’s Talkatora lies the tomb of Begum Akhtar—the queen of ghazals.
By Puja Awasthi

Faith gets a facelift

After restoration, the Blue Synagogue is back to its former glory
By Pooja Biraia Jaiswal

In pictures: Neglected Hoysala-era temples

These lesser-known architectural wonders have fallen into disrepair
By Bhanu Prakash Chandra

'Goa is not just a beach-destination, it has huge potential for eco-tourism'

Interview, Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
By Pooja Biraia Jaiswal

Here are the 12 forts related to Shivaji nominated for UNESCO world heritage status

The 11 forts from Maharashtra and one from Tamil Nadu associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji are known for its historical, architectural and cultural significance
By Pooja Biraia Jaiswal

Four off-beat heritage tourist spots in Thiruvananthapuram

These lesser-known architectural wonders have fallen into disrepair
By Nirmal Jovial
READ MORE ARTICLES

For Sponsorship & Nominations

Contact

Atul Arora (Delhi): 98999 44554

Rajesh B. Solanki (Mumbai): 98216 20784

John Sudhir Abraham (Chennai): 95000 74437

Praveen Gopinathan (Bengaluru): 72590 14885

Abraham T. George (Hyderabad): 98493 90462

Sushmita B. Mitra (Kolkata): 98302 01011

Krishnakumar R. (Thiruvananthapuram): 98957 57910