ASI & Google jointly launched the 360 degree online view of Indian heritage sites

Archaelogical Survey of India (ASI) joined hands with the Google to launch the 360 degree online view of the Indian heritage sites on 20 February 2014.

The aim is to create a dynamic, immersive online experience by which people within India and around the world can understand and engage more of India's diverse cultural heritage.

Under the first part of the project, a total of 30 heritage sites from across the nation have been mapped using the Street View Trekker of Google. Under the Street View Trekker a person gets a step by step walk around virtual tour of the place.

The Indian heritage sites that have been mapped include the likes of Taj Mahal, Raigad Fort, Nagarjuna Konda Buddhist Stupas, Fatehpur Sikri, Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, Red Fort, Aga Khan Palace, Agra Fort and more.

The 30 monuments will also be now available to viewers on GoogleMaps and on the World Wonders site, part of Google Cultural Institute.

In October 2013, Google had announced its project to capture the panoramic image of 100 Indian Heritage sites with Union Ministry of Culture and ASI. In pursuance of the signed agreement with ASI and Union Culture Ministry, Google created a virtual walkthrough application using its Street View Trekker technology for the first time in India.

About Street View Trekker Technology

The Street View Trekker technology was introduced in 2012, which is a Street View camera platform, with 15 cameras on board that capture a 360-degree view of the area around. It is mounted on a wearable backpack and the total unit weighs around 20 kilograms. The operator walks through pedestrian routes and is designed to reach places that can be accessed by foot.