Uttar Pradesh’s Salkhan Fossils Park (also known as Sonbhadra Fossils Park) has been officially included in UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites as of June 4, 2025.

This recognition marks a major step toward global acknowledgment of its 1.4 billion-year-old stromatolite fossils and strengthens the region’s heritage and eco-tourism potential.

Key Points:

• UNESCO Tentative List Inclusion – The park was added to UNESCO’s Tentative List on June 4, 2025, bringing official recognition to its scientific and cultural significance .
• Ancient Fossils – The 25-hectare site in the Kaimur Range near Robertsganj houses algae and stromatolite fossils dated to approximately 1.4 billion years ago—the oldest known evidence of life on Earth.
• Next Steps Toward World Heritage Status – A detailed nomination dossier is being prepared and will be sent to the Government of India, aiming for full UNESCO World Heritage inscription within two years.
• Boost to Eco-tourism & Local Development – Recognition is expected to enhance scientific interest, heritage conservation, and tourism development in Sonbhadra, providing economic benefits to the region.
• Scientific Foundation – Formal studies by the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences identified well-preserved stromatolite structures in Bhander limestone, supporting the site's nomination.