Asia is a continent full of diversity, ranging from towering mountains to pristine beaches, ancient temples to modern skyscrapers, and everything in between. With so much to see and do, it can be challenging to decide which places to visit during your trip. In this blog, we will explore some of the must-see places in Asia that are guaranteed to leave you awestruck.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat is a true masterpiece of ancient architecture and a testament to Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. The temple complex is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture. A visit to Angkor Wat is a journey through time, a glimpse into the magnificent world of the Khmer Empire.
The construction of Angkor Wat took approximately 30 years, with tens of thousands of workers involved in its creation. The temple was built using sandstone blocks that were quarried from a nearby mountain and transported to the temple site using elephants. The temple’s intricate carvings and bas-reliefs were created by skilled artisans who used simple tools such as chisels and hammers.
Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is one of the most famous and recognizable structures in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings ever created. The Taj Mahal is a symbol of love, devotion, and magnificence, and its history is rich and fascinating.
Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632 and took 22 years to complete. The emperor brought in the best architects, craftsmen, and artisans from all over the world to work on the project. The building is made of white marble that was brought from Rajasthan and was embellished with precious stones and gems
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is a marvel of ancient engineering and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. It is a series of walls and fortifications that run along the northern borders of China, stretching for thousands of kilometers. The Great Wall of China is an iconic symbol of China’s rich history, culture, and civilization.
The construction of the Great Wall of China began in the 7th century BC, during the Zhou dynasty. At that time, individual states built their own walls to protect themselves from invasions. The walls were often made of rammed earth, tamped down and compacted by hand, with gates and towers for observation and defense.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin in northeastern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors every year. The bay is known for its emerald waters, towering limestone cliffs, and picturesque islands that dot the landscape.
Legend has it that the bay was created by a dragon that descended from the heavens to help the Vietnamese people fight off foreign invaders. The dragon spat out jewels and jade, which turned into islands and rocks that formed a protective barrier against the invaders. The name Ha Long means “descending dragon” in Vietnamese, and the bay is believed to be the dragon’s final resting place.
The Forbidden City, China
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is one of the most significant cultural and historical landmarks in China. Located in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, serving as the home of 24 emperors and their households for nearly 500 years.
The construction of the Forbidden City began in 1406 and was completed in 1420, taking 14 years and over a million workers to complete. The palace covers an area of 720,000 square meters and contains over 8,000 rooms, making it the largest ancient palace in the world.
Mount Everest, Nepal
Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Tibetan, is the world’s tallest mountain peak, located in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas. The peak stands at an elevation of 29,029 feet (8,848 meters) above sea level, making it a top destination for mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts. Mount Everest is located in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal, on the border between Nepal and Tibet.
Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island, also known as Jeju-do, is a beautiful volcanic island located in South Korea. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and delicious cuisine.
Jeju Island has a rich history and culture that dates back thousands of years. The island is home to many unique traditions, such as the haenyeo, female divers who harvest seafood without the use of scuba gear. These divers have been a symbol of the island’s culture for centuries and are still actively practicing today.
Asia is a continent that is full of wonders and must-see destinations. From the Great Wall of China to the Taj Mahal, there is something for every traveler. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, Asia is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Must read: The Art of Asian Cuisine: History, Techniques, and Signature Dishes