Top Historical Tour Destinations in Asia
Asia, with its rich and diverse history, offers numerous destinations perfect for historical tours. Here are some of the top historical destinations in Asia:
1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
- Why Visit: The largest religious monument in the world and a masterpiece of Khmer architecture.
- Highlights:
- Sunrise at Angkor Wat.
- Exploring Ta Prohm, with trees growing out of the ruins.
- Discovering the intricate carvings at Bayon Temple.
2. Great Wall of China, China
- Why Visit: One of the Seven Wonders of the World, showcasing ancient Chinese engineering.
- Highlights:
- Walking along the restored Mutianyu or Badaling sections.
- Learning about its history as a defense system.
- Panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Taj Mahal, India
- Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of love and Mughal architecture.
- Highlights:
- Visiting the monument at sunrise or sunset.
- Exploring the intricate marble inlays and gardens.
- Learning about its construction and history at Agra Fort.
4. Kyoto, Japan
- Why Visit: A city with ancient temples, shrines, and traditional wooden houses.
- Highlights:
- Visiting Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
- Exploring Nijo Castle, a historic shogunate residence.
- Walking through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
5. Petra, Jordan
- Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage site and an ancient Nabatean city carved into red sandstone cliffs.
- Highlights:
- Walking through the Siq to reach the Treasury.
- Exploring the Royal Tombs and Monastery.
- Visiting Petra by Night for a candlelit experience.
6. Forbidden City, China
- Why Visit: The imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties in Beijing.
- Highlights:
- Touring the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Imperial Garden.
- Learning about Chinese imperial history and architecture.
- Viewing treasures in the Palace Museum.
7. Hampi, India
- Why Visit: A UNESCO site with the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, showcasing ancient Indian architecture.
- Highlights:
- Visiting the Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple Complex.
- Exploring the iconic stone chariot and musical pillars.
- Walking through the Hampi Bazaar and royal enclosures.
8. Gyeongju, South Korea
- Why Visit: Known as the "museum without walls," it was the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom.
- Highlights:
- Exploring Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto.
- Visiting Tumuli Park with ancient royal tombs.
- Learning about Korean history at the Gyeongju National Museum.
9. Ayutthaya, Thailand
- Why Visit: The ancient capital of the Siamese Kingdom, known for its temples and ruins.
- Highlights:
- Visiting Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots.
- Exploring Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
- Cruising along the rivers surrounding the city.
10. Borobudur, Indonesia
- Why Visit: The largest Buddhist temple in the world, with stunning architecture and carvings.
- Highlights:
- Watching the sunrise from the top of the temple.
- Viewing the intricate relief panels depicting Buddhist teachings.
- Exploring the nearby Mendut and Pawon temples.
11. Bagan, Myanmar
- Why Visit: An ancient city with over 2,000 surviving temples and pagodas.
- Highlights:
- Sunrise hot air balloon rides over the temples.
- Exploring Ananda Temple and Shwezigon Pagoda.
- Visiting the Bagan Archaeological Museum.
12. Persepolis, Iran
- Why Visit: The ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, known for its grand ruins.
- Highlights:
- Touring the Apadana Palace and Hall of 100 Columns.
- Viewing the intricate carvings on the Gate of All Nations.
- Exploring nearby Naqsh-e Rustam tombs.
13. Sukhothai, Thailand
- Why Visit: The first capital of Thailand, known for its well-preserved ruins.
- Highlights:
- Exploring the Sukhothai Historical Park.
- Visiting Wat Mahathat and Wat Si Chum.
- Learning about the origins of Thai art and culture.
14. Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens, Pakistan
- Why Visit: Representing Mughal architecture at its finest.
- Highlights:
- Touring the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors).
- Strolling through the Shalimar Gardens.
- Learning about the history of the Mughal Empire.
15. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
- Why Visit: A rock fortress with stunning frescoes and ancient gardens.
- Highlights:
- Climbing the rock to see the Lion’s Paw entrance and summit ruins.
- Exploring the water gardens and frescoes.
- Learning about King Kashyapa’s palace.
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