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WHAT INSPIRES you to travel throughout Asia? Is it the food, the culture, the people, or all of the above? For us, it’s always the latter. The continent is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each a perfect blend of history, culture and stunning visual beauty.
As reported by timesofindia, here are 10 photogenic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia:
1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
What do you do when you visit the largest religious monument in the world? Of course, you stare at it and try to capture the essence of the place with your camera. The temple grounds are breathtaking at dawn. The intricate carvings, vast moats, and breathtaking temple complexes provide plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, especially at sunrise and sunset.
2. Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is arguably one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Wouldn’t you agree? With its pristine white marble exterior, perfectly symmetrical gardens, and surrounding water features, this world-famous monument offers enchanting photo opportunities.
3. Great Wall of China
One of the longest man-made structures in the world, the Great Wall of China stretches for more than 13,000 miles, winding through mountains and rugged terrain. While some claim it can be seen from space, we now know this is not true.
4. Bagan, Myanmar
The best way to see Bagan is from the air. If you visit Bagan, take a hot air balloon ride to see the site from above. It’s truly breathtaking. The vast plain of Bagan is filled with thousands of ancient temples of all shapes and sizes. The best time to take a balloon ride is in the morning.
5. Borobudur, Indonesia
You’ll see the largest Buddhist temple in the world at dawn. Borobudur is truly awe-inspiring. It features hundreds of Buddha statues, bell-shaped stupas, and intricate reliefs that make for stunning photos.
6. Halong Bay, Vietnam
No trip to Vietnam is complete without a visit to the famous Halong Bay. The bay’s emerald waters are dotted with towering limestone islands, creating the perfect backdrop for your incredible vacation photos.
7. Kyoto Historical Monuments, Japan
Kyoto’s ancient temples, with their red Torii gates, offer a picture-perfect view. In spring, the city’s temples, gardens, and traditional architecture are enhanced by the cherry blossoms that surround them.
8. Petra, Jordan
Petra, also known as the “Rose City,” carved into the bright red and pink sandstone cliffs, is one of the most dramatic archaeological sites in the world. From the narrow paths that lead to the site to the architectural masterpieces you will see, Petra is unforgettable. The iconic Treasury Building is especially photogenic.
9. Philippine Cordillera Rice Terraces, Philippines
The Banaue Rice Terraces were carved into the mountains of Ifugao by the ancestors of the indigenous people. This site is more than just agriculture. In fact, the terraces are a marvel of agricultural engineering. The green slopes are incredibly photogenic.
10. Hampi, India
The ancient city of Hampi has some of the most unique views in India. As far as the eye can see, there are large rocks of all shapes and sizes. There are also the ruins of magnificent temples from the former Vijayanagara empire. Hampi is an otherworldly photographic experience. The sunset views are truly unforgettable. [sources/photo special]
