The dynamics of heritage within Himalayan landscapes: An analysis of the effects of the mixed World Heritage Listing of Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim, India

This thesis examines the ongoing division between nature and culture in international heritage management. Despite efforts to integrate both aspects, the division persists and is often reinforced by international heritage processes and categorisations, historically established, and promoted by organisations like UNESCO, which contributes to a disconnect between local, national, and international processes, frequently marginalising local communities. Through a multidisciplinary approach this thesis examines the impact of World Heritage listings that incorporate both natural and cultural criteria, using the case study of Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) in the Indian state of Sikkim. Inscribed as India’s first mixed natural and cultural World Heritage Site in 2016, the KNP boasts a remarkable range of environments, resulting in exceptional biodiversity. Additionally, the landscape holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for local communities such as the Lepcha, and...Show moreThis thesis examines the ongoing division between nature and culture in international heritage management. Despite efforts to integrate both aspects, the division persists and is often reinforced by international heritage processes and categorisations, historically established, and promoted by organisations like UNESCO, which contributes to a disconnect between local, national, and international processes, frequently marginalising local communities. Through a multidisciplinary approach this thesis examines the impact of World Heritage listings that incorporate both natural and cultural criteria, using the case study of Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) in the Indian state of Sikkim. Inscribed as India’s first mixed natural and cultural World Heritage Site in 2016, the KNP boasts a remarkable range of environments, resulting in exceptional biodiversity. Additionally, the landscape holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for local communities such as the Lepcha, and international Buddhist communities, who consider it a sacred hidden land. These relationships have established unique customs, worldviews, material culture, and traditional knowledge. In this context, natural and cultural heritage are intricately interconnected, providing an opportunity to explore whether mixed listings can transcend the traditional Western dichotomy of nature versus culture and enable more integrated heritage management.Show less

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The dynamics of heritage within Himalayan landscapes: An analysis of the effects of the mixed World Heritage Listing of Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim, India