PROMOTION Monumental Majesty 1 India’s vast geography is also reflected in the diversity and size of its wonders – gigantic national parks and imposing monuments are abundant among the country’s 35 Unesco World Heritage Sites – here are four examples. 1. The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur Built by Rajput ruler Jai Singh II in the early 18th century to survey the heavens, this observatory contains 20 fixed instruments – each a scientific, cultural and technological marvel that allowed the prince and his entourage to establish astronomical positions with the naked eye. 2. Sundarbans National Park An area of the Ganges Delta home to the world’s largest mangrove forests and single largest 4 population of tigers. The land, which is constantly remoulded and reshaped by the water, nurtures numerous rare and threatened species, including the king cobra. 3. Khangchendzonga National Park Nestled in the Himalayan range in the state of Sikkim, this park is unique in its diverse geography. Plains, valleys, lakes, glaciers and forests take their place alongside Khangchendzonga itself (the world’s third highest peak) and other snow-capped mountains in an area that inspired Sikkim’s sacred mythology. 4. Taj Mahal The most famous of India’s monuments, the immense mausoleum of white marble towers over the vast surrounding gardens. Erected by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal, construction took 16 years to complete. 2 3
