Thursday 29 September 2011

TEN WORLD BEST BEACH

                                                                       TOP TEN BEACH
  1. Seychelles


One of the most photographed beaches in the world, the pale pink sands of Anse Source d’Argent unfurls across the island of La Digue, one of the 115 components of this archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The sands sparkle against a backdrop of towering granite boulders, worn by time and weather. The turquoise water is relatively shallow and protected from the ocean’s waves by a reef.

  1. Maldives


Whether your dream beach trip consists of spending a few pampered nights in a four-star resort or swimming among tropical fish some 80 feet (24 meters) underwater, the Maldives are the sort of islands where either—or both—can come true. Straddling the equator southwest of Sri Lanka, the 1,102 islands that make up the Maldives form 26 atolls. The soft air enveloping the archipelago blends into a beautiful palm-fringed haze.

  1. Bora Bora, Tahiti


This is one of the magical islands that make up French Polynesia in the South Pacific. Just 18 miles (29 kilometers) long, this lush little slip of land lies in a protected lagoon edged by white sandy shores, the best being at Matira Point. Bora Bora boasts the nickname the “Romantic Island,” a moniker easy to appreciate with its isolated beaches, intimate hotels, and quiet atmosphere.

  1. The Hamptons, New York


One of the hip spots for the air-kissing, well-heeled set, the Hamptons boast some of the prettiest beaches on Long Island. The unspoiled shoreline begins around Southampton and runs east to the end of the island at Montauk. Windswept dunes and waving grasses border the Atlantic Ocean.

  1. Lanikai Beach, Hawaii


Half a mile of sparkling sand, palm trees swaying over a white beach, lush tropical plants, and endless sunshine make Lanikai one of Hawaii’s most scenic beaches. The shore is protected by a nearby coral reef, which keeps the surf relatively calm. The water is always deep green and postcard-perfect.

6.Nantucket Island, Massachusetts


The most popular beaches on this island in the North Atlantic are Surfside and Children’s. The waters here are relatively calm, and there’s plenty of sand to use for sunbathing or castle-building. Madaket Beach is known for its rougher surf and not-to-be-missed sunsets. Quidnet Beach provides great views of Sankaty Head lighthouse.

7.Fraser Island, Australia


Perched on the sunny Queensland coast 161 miles (259 kilometers) northeast of Brisbane, Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island and home to a wonderful beach. This World Heritage Site is an ecologist’s dream, with 640 square miles (1,664 square kilometers) of unspoiled natural paradise. Rain forests with 1,000-year-old trees sprout from the sand. Lodgings here accommodate a wide range of tourists, from the backpacking ecology lover to pampered resort fans.

8.St. Bart's


One of many islands in the Caribbean Sea, St. Bart’s stands out with its blend of French chic and island relaxation. With beautiful secluded beaches, fine French cuisine, and gracious hotels, this tropical playground is popular with the Jet Set. The 8-mile-long (13-kilometer-long) island is edged by 20 beaches and small coves for swimmers and sunbathers, with sparkling water and white sand.

9.Langkawi, Malaysia


The name “Langkawi” translates into “the land of one’s wishes,” a welcoming concept that somewhat belies the island’s historic origins as a reputed refuge for pirates. Langkawi has since become a modern hideaway for the traveler seeking an escape. If your vacation wishes extend from uncrowded white sands and clear waters to lush green forests, you will find yourself content here. Datai Bay, located on Pulau Langkawi, is a heavenly retreat on the Andaman Sea.

10.Kauna'oa Bay, Hawaii

Located on the Kohala Coast of the Aloha State’s Big Island, Kauna’oa Bay is the quintessential Hawaiian spot. The 0.25-mile-long (0.4-kilometer-long), crescent-shaped beach has plenty of white sand, palm trees, and calm, clear, blue water. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, beachgoers here can snorkel or ride boogie boards. (Be careful swimming, however, because there are no lifeguards on this public beach.) At night, nestle into the sands and peer out into the water to see if you can catch a glimpse of manta rays swimming.

top ten hill station in india


TEN BEST HILL STATION IN INDIA





Hill Stations

  
ll Stations
With the highest mountain ranges in the world, the Himalayas, running north to east, Aravalli and Vindhya ranges across western and central India, and Western ghats in western and southern parts, India is full of hill stations and offers some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.

Indian hill stations are a traveler's paradise, gifted with snowy peaks, deep gorges, green valleys, misty woods, frothing rivers, azure lakes and flower-filled meadows. These misty, mystical and serene hill stations of India are a perfect holiday option.

Here's a list of top 10 hill stations of India.
Shimla
Make the best of the ice-skating rink at Shimla


Ooty
Enthralls tourists with its vibrant flowers


Darjeeling and Gangtok
Infinite slopes of captivating tea gardens


Mussoorie
Gorgeous view of the snow-covered Himalayas


Kodaikanal
Instills vigor and recharges ones senses with its beauty


Dehradun
Recreational place for adventure lovers


Kullu and Manali
Beautiful valleys with mesmerizing effect


Srinagar
Land of lakes and houseboats


Mount Abu
Thronged by pilgrims and tourists alike


Shillong
Offers an uncontaminated atmosphere and serenity

                                                                                    SHIMLA

Shimla the capital of the glorious state of Himachal Pradesh is a fabulous hill-station surrounded by dense forests that comprises of oak, deodar, pine and rhododendron forests. Shimla has abundance of natural beauty and the locals are privileged to live in such panoramic locations. This place can enamor anyone with its beauty.

Shimla has a lot of variety to offer. Shimla is an ideal place for fishing, golfing, skiing, trekking etc. Adventuring here which definitely make you enthusiastic and spirited. For more energetic entertainment, hit the indoor roller-skating rink in Lakkar Bazaar or go open-air ice-skating above the Rivoli Bus stand. There are always amazing things to be explored in its surrounding countryside. Fagu, Kulfri and Naldhera are some of the well- known places for adventuring and camping too.

Long walks in the deep green woods will give you a scintillating feeling. The Shimla Ridge gives you a magnificent view of the sunset which is indescribable. Tour to Shimla will captivate you with its natural charm and enable you to get closer to nature. One of the attractions of this hill-station are its apple trees. The sight of a cluster of apple trees with leave you dumbstruck.

Situated at an altitude of 2159 m Shimla is engulfed by snow-covered mountains, green pastures dense forests and wholesome climate. These overall conditions draw tourist to this hill station. The toy train ride from Kalka station to Shimla takes you through a picturesque route, which will keep you spellbound and memories of which you will relish forever.



Shimla the capital of the glorious state of Himachal Pradesh is a fabulous hill-station surrounded by dense forests that comprises of oak, deodar, pine and rhododendron forests. Shimla has abundance of natural beauty and the locals are privileged to live in such panoramic locations. This place can enamor anyone with its beauty.

Shimla has a lot of variety to offer. Shimla is an ideal place for fishing, golfing, skiing, trekking etc. Adventuring here which definitely make you enthusiastic and spirited. For more energetic entertainment, hit the indoor roller-skating rink in Lakkar Bazaar or go open-air ice-skating above the Rivoli Bus stand. There are always amazing things to be explored in its surrounding countryside. Fagu, Kulfri and Naldhera are some of the well- known places for adventuring and camping too.

Long walks in the deep green woods will give you a scintillating feeling. The Shimla Ridge gives you a magnificent view of the sunset which is indescribable. Tour to Shimla will captivate you with its natural charm and enable you to get closer to nature. One of the attractions of this hill-station are its apple trees. The sight of a cluster of apple trees with leave you dumbstruck.

Situated at an altitude of 2159 m Shimla is engulfed by snow-covered mountains, green pastures dense forests and wholesome climate. These overall conditions draw tourist to this hill station. The toy train ride from Kalka station to Shimla takes you through a picturesque route, which will keep you spellbound and memories of which you will relish forever.
 


Shimla the capital of the glorious state of Himachal Pradesh is a fabulous hill-station surrounded by dense forests that comprises of oak, deodar, pine and rhododendron forests. Shimla has abundance of natural beauty and the locals are privileged to live in such panoramic locations. This place can enamor anyone with its beauty.

Shimla has a lot of variety to offer. Shimla is an ideal place for fishing, golfing, skiing, trekking etc. Adventuring here which definitely make you enthusiastic and spirited. For more energetic entertainment, hit the indoor roller-skating rink in Lakkar Bazaar or go open-air ice-skating above the Rivoli Bus stand. There are always amazing things to be explored in its surrounding countryside. Fagu, Kulfri and Naldhera are some of the well- known places for adventuring and camping too.

Long walks in the deep green woods will give you a scintillating feeling. The Shimla Ridge gives you a magnificent view of the sunset which is indescribable. Tour to Shimla will captivate you with its natural charm and enable you to get closer to nature. One of the attractions of this hill-station are its apple trees. The sight of a cluster of apple trees with leave you dumbstruck.

Situated at an altitude of 2159 m Shimla is engulfed by snow-covered mountains, green pastures dense forests and wholesome climate. These overall conditions draw tourist to this hill station. The toy train ride from Kalka station to Shimla takes you through a picturesque route, which will keep you spellbound and memories of which you will relish forever.


                                                                          
                            OOTY                                          








This green and pictorial Queen of Hill Stations located in South India in the state of Tamil Station is at an altitude of 2240 m. Conifers, pine and eucalyptus trees grow abundantly in this region and make the environment fresh, clean and pleasant. The funnel-shaped lavender- blue flowers bring in radiance to the sloping mountains.

To truly experience the charm of this hill station in the Nilgiri Mountains, take the little Blue Mountain train to Ooty from Mettupalayam. Once there, settle into a relaxed routine of picnics, pony rides and angling; spend a morning at the lovely Botanical Gardens, drop in at Ooty club with its Raj-era ambience. A delightful day trip is to Pykara where you can see rolling grassland and the unique concial huts of the Toda tribe.

Ooty is huddled in an arena that is generated by four royal hills - Elk Hill, Snowdon, Doddabetta and Club Hill. These majestic hills are fractions of the regal Nilgiri range which forms a congregation for the Western and Eastern Ghats.

Dense forests, lofty mountains, extensive tea and coffee plantation and sprawling grasslands characterize Ooty. Ooty provides ecstasy for trekkers. Trekking here is filled with excitement and pleasure. One can watch nature in its best form and splendor while trekking in Ooty. Ooty has many trek routes to offer. However, they differ in distance, stature and topography. Hand gliding and Angling are other activities that one could participate in.

This eco-friendly land with lush greenery, radiant flowers, deep forest, lakes and waterfall offer a fantastic sight and make your stay in Ooty laudable.





Darjeeling and Gangtok are a wonderful combination of tranquility, verdant hills, panoramic views and above all the mesmerizing beauty of the mighty Kanchanjunga. These hill stations are famous for ambience of desolation and they offer magnificent view of the vast plains lying below. Both Darjeeling and Gangtok are famous for beautiful serene monasteries, tea plantations and orchard.

One of the attractions of Darjeeling is its toy train. Built in the late 19th century, the world heritage Darjeeling Himalayan railway is a technological marvel. Its tracks rise from sea level to an altitude of over 7,500 ft in just about 70 km. Zigzag, reverses and loops were devised to overcome these gradients, the most famous being the Batasia Loop, where the train does a complete figure of eight. It covers about 83 km in six or seven hours, so sit back and enjoy the mountains and the fresh air.

Darjeeling derives its name from the Tibetan word ‘Dorje’which means a precious stone or the thunderbolt and ‘ling’ meaning place; hence Darjeeling is the land of thunderbolt. The Ghoom Monastery and tiger hills in Darjeeling must be visited at least once.

Gangtok is the capital of the state of Sikkim. The beautiful Enchey Monastery and Rumtek monastery in Gangtok are very popular among tourists. A journey by the ropeway or cable car in Gangtok should be made mandatory in your itinerary. This 20 minute journey will enable you to view the spectacular valley of Gangtok.

Abundant growth of flowers with more than 500 variety of orchid makes this place exotic. Gangtok is an ideal place to buy shawls, blankets, carpets, hand-made paper, painted masks etc. Gangtok is haven for adventure sports. This hill-station has numerous interesting treks to offer tourists.

The beauty of both these hill stations is marked by azure skies, brilliant sunshine, scarlet rhododendrons and the white fragrant magnolias which bloom in profusion, the sloping tea gardens, forests of silver fir and more. Darjeeling and Gangtok boasts a number of charming spots.



Mussoorie was originally a popular hill station frequented by the British. This picturesque town with its verdant hills and with a variety of floral life and animals inhabiting the region the place is really fascinating. Hemmed in by snowy mountain peaks to the northeast and glittering view of the beautiful Doon valley and Shivalik ranges in the south, the town presents a fairyland ambience to the tourists.

Mussoorie is hailed as the queen. It is one of the most beautiful hill stations. The climate of this resort is just wonderful and this is the reason that people enjoy visiting this hill station a lot. It presents a pretty picture during summer.

Mussorrie has really attractive views of the mighty, snow-clad Himalayan peaks. The breathtaking Kempty falls, 11 km away from the town, attracts horde of tourists daily. Depot Hill, which is another interesting place, is point with highest elevation in Mussoorie and all majestic Himalayan peaks are clearly visible from here on clear days.

Camel’s back road, offers a gorgeous view of the sunset and the place resembles a sitting camel. One can also enjoy long walks and horse riding here. Camel’s back hill is accessible and you can go there with the help of electric trolley. The view from the top is exceptionally beautiful. Gun hill, which is the second most elevated peak here, is also a wonderful place to visit.

Surrounded by the thick oak and blue pine forests, the town is utterly devoid of the hustle and bustle of modern day life. It is ideal for those people who want to enjoy nature in its unlimited glory.






Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station of South India quietly ensconced amidst the green Palani Hills. Kodaikanal has a breathtaking scenic beauty. Its wooded slopes, enhancing waterfalls, mighty rocks and beautiful lakes can captivate any visitor.

Kodaikanal has an excellent climate and it charm attracts tourists all through the year. Bird watchers love this place, as do the people who enjoy solitude. No doubt, Kodaikanal still has its virgin, pristine charm.

Situated at an altitude of 2,133 m, the fruits and plums of Kodaikanal are famous for its taste and freshness. This town possesses many orchards where fruits like banana, plums and lychees are grown in plenty. The Kurinji-flower, which is better known as the pride of Kodiakanal blooms once in a decade. With the blooming of this flower the mountainous slopes gets magically transformed to a bluish-purplish shade.

Kodaikanal provides ample opportunities for trekkers. Trekkers can choose between the 17 routes that are of different lengths.

Magnificent waterfalls, amazing valleys and picture postcard surroundings Kodaikanal offers you the delight of heaven on earth. The undulating hills slopes of Kodaikanal are infested with conifers and eucalyptus trees. The vibrant wild flowers and the exotic orchid give Kodaikanal a natural paradisiacal atmosphere.

The scenic beauty of Kodiakanal has a subtle ambience – a mental and sensorThis picture perfect hill station is the capital of the state of Uttaranchal. It is located at an altitude of 2,200 ft. and is surrounded by two sacred rivers - the Ganga and the Yamuna. Dehradun is embedded in the lap of the beautiful Doon valley and is surrounded by the Shivalik ranges. Its pleasant weather conditions throughout the year make it an ideal place for vacationing.

Dehradun’s spectacular natural assets like floristic varieties, astounding valleys, breathing panorama, tea plantation and leech gardens have transformed this town into a paradise. Its natural environment has a soothing effect on the minds of visitors. It is a perfect retreat for people of different desires and needs.

Dehradun houses several famous schools, esteemed forest research institutes and well-known academic institutes as well, thus making Dehradun a distinct hill-station. It also offers various forms of recreations for adventure lovers, of which trekking and jeep safari is popular.

Dehradun being a combination of a hill-station, a pilgrimage centre, educational institution and its commercial importance due to its abundant cultivation of various producers it attracts people from every walk of life.

This hill station has some good hotels, recreation clubs and restaurants to cater to the needs of the tourists.

Dehradun is heavenly during the monsoons as well. For some wet and wacky experience, yield to the magic of the monsoon in the mist-laden hills. Monsoons here leaves behind a view that is so overwhelming and sparkling that anyone would come here again and again to experience exhilaration. y quietude rarely experienced elsewhere. So come and visit Kodaikanal and tantalize your senses with its scenic beauty. Its vast expanse of greenery is bound to st

Kullu Manali is an extremely popular tourist’s destination. Both these hill stations are a delight to those who desire to spend some time in the lap of nature. The intricate web of beautiful valleys brings gleam to ones eyes. Whether it is under the radiant rays of the sun or under the spell of hazy mist, the valley looks brilliant.

The awesome Kullu valley spreads its charm on both the sides of River Beas. The flower-filled meadows, exciting glens surrounded by the gushing streams and meandering rivulets is enough to make the tourists ecstatic. Kullu provides ample scope for trekkers, mountaineers, artists and others who wish to enjoy the variegated spectacle of the scenic mountains. Just inhaling the pristine air of the majestic Himalayas will help to invigorate.

The hand woven colorful caps and shawls of Kullu are very famous among the locals as well as among tourists.

Manali which is about 40 km from Kullu is a sleepy little valley in the foothills of the Himalayas surrounded by pine and deodar forests. The landscape of Manali is incredible. The snow covered peaks, sparkling and curving brooks, green fields and verdant fruit orchards will make your holiday a joyous one.

There are fun things to do and see here – horse riding, trekking, hot air ballooning and more. The mountaineering institute at Manali is famous among trekkers and mountaineers.

Kullu Manali has plenty to offer trekking enthusiast as well as for those looking for easy hikes and scenic drives. The beauty of the mountains capes, rivers, temples and pastures can be captured while trekking.

The abundant growth of flowers and vegetables, the apple trees bowing down low with the weight of their fruit, the great sweep of the mountains and the glow that gildes over them by the blazing sun, the clouds gathering over the tallest of the peaks and the calmness that surrounds this valley is what Kullu Manali is all about. ir all visitors.

SRINAGAR



Luxurious houseboats, sprawling Mughal Gardens and magnificent golf courses is what sets apart Srinagar from the rest of the hill stations. Srinagar is the capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. This town is full of fascinating alleyways and buildings. Just wandering in this intriguing city for a few hours leaves you rejuvenated. Its natural splendor makes Srinagar the most magnificent hill station of India.

Houseboats and Srinagar are synonyms of each other, as is the famed Dal Lake. The lakes of Nagin, Anchar and Dal and the river Jhelum flowing through different parts of the city add distinctiveness and charm to it.

The lakes of Srinagar are not just a stretch of water but are as good a stretch of land, since shops, houses, tapered water cannels, vegetables gardens are found on the lakes. One can book a shikara for a whole day for sightseeing and picnicking simultaneously. A ride in the shikara is perhaps the best part of vacationing. House boats were first built by the British as a way of getting round the maharaja’s ruling that they couldn’t own land here. Today, they are an integral part of the traveler’s experience.

The Royal Springs Golf Course at Srinagar with the Zabarwan hills as the backdrop and the Dal Lake in front is every golfer’s dream come true. This magnificent Golf course has been voted India’s best golf course.

Srinagar gives you a spectacular view of the tall, snow-covered peaks, wild flowers carpeting the meadows, rose gardens and imposing valley, the beauty of which is bound to leave you awestruck.



Mount Abu is an oasis in the barren desert land of Rajasthan. The cool climate of Mount Abu is due to its extravagant flora which consists of flowering shrubs and coniferous trees.

The massive rocks makes the approach road to Mount Abu curvaceous. Most Abu is the only hill station of in the state of Rajasthan. The golden tinge that smears over the hills of Mount Abu during sunset makes it a spectacular sight. The grassy plains and deep valleys makes Mount Abu look fabulous especially during dusk.

Mount Abu is situated 1,720 m above sea level. The highest and the most beautiful peak of Mount Abu is the Guru Shikhar. A certain level of tranquility surrounds the temple which is built on a summit. This peak offers a spectacular view of the entire town.

Mount Abu is not only a hill-station but also a pilgrimage centre for the Jains and houses some of the best architectural splendor of India. The Dilwara temple of Jains is one such example.

Although Mount Abu can be visited throughout the year, February to June and September to December are considered ideal for visiting.

Charming forest hills set up wonderfully by the coniferous trees act as the backdrop for your holiday. Cool, inherent innocence and beauty of Mount Abu is sure to refresh and rejuvenate you. Its lake, temples and landscape will definitely lift your spirits.



Shillong the capital of Meghalaya is a very attractive hill station. Its sparkling lakes and dazzling waterfalls spring from lush green mountains and pine tree forest. This hill station provides a clean and unpolluted environment to its tourists.

Sitting pretty in the East Khasi hills of Meghalaya, Shillong has a host of attractions- English style cottages, pine forests, waterfalls and even an 18-hole golf course. For a glimpse of the Khasi tribe’s matriarchal culture, visit Bara Bazaar, run entirely by efficient, enterprising women, selling everything from piglets to betel nut.

Cherrapunjee, a very scenic 120 km drive from Shillong was once famous as the wettest place on earth – it once recorded 2,629 cm of rainfall on a single day! That title now belongs to the neighboring hamlet of Mawsynram.

Ward’s lake, butterfly museum, botanical garden, lady Hydari Park, Tadlskein Lake, Sweet falls, Elephant falls, Sohpetbneng peak and beadon falls are some of the tourists attractions of Shillong. The boat races held in Umgot River are popular among locals and tourist alike.

This land of forests, hills, waterfalls, lakes, caves and cottages is full of Mother Nature’s benevolence. The woods of Shillong are lovely dark and deep streams rush down the hillsides, the climate is pleasant and countryside here echo’s with tribal songs that sound pleasant to the ears. When you explore its enchanting places, you will realize that your search for eternity and serenity has reached its terminus. Truly, if you are looking to relax and enjoy Mother Nature’s bounty, Shillong is the place to visit.

TAJ MAHAL-A TRIBUTE OF LOVE

                                                           TAJ MAHAL


For centuries, the Taj Mahal has inspired poets, painters and musicians to try and capture its elusive magic in word, colour and song. It is one of the most flawless architectural creations of the world. Since the 17th century, travellers have crossed continents to come and see this ultimate memorial of love,and to know more about the interesting Taj Mahal history behind it.

Why Was Taj Mahal Built

                                             Taj Mahal stands in the city of Agra, in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the Yamuna River. It was built in the memory of the beautiful Arjumand Bano Begum, who won the heart of a Mughal prince. Their love story is the most important factor behind the Taj Mahal history. She was married at 21 to Emperor Jahangir’s third son Prince Khurram and stayed loyally by his side through good times and bad: in the luxurious royal palaces of Agra as well as the transient tents of war camps. In AD 1628, Khurram became king after a bloody battle of succession: he took the name Shahjahan or “King of the World” and showered his beloved begum with the highest titles. She became Mumtaz Mahal, the exalted of the palace and Mumtaz-ul-Zamani, the exalted of the Age. But Mumtaz Mahal was not destined to be queen for long.

In 1631, Shahjahan went on an expedition to the south and, as always, Mumtaz Mahal accompanied him. But she died in childbirth at Burhanpur. She had borne Shahjahan fourteen children, of whom four sons and three daughters survived. When Mumtaz Mahal died, she was just 39 years old. Shahjahan was inconsolable and contemporary chronicles tell of the royal court mourning for two years. there was no music, no feasting, and no celebration of any kind. This is the sad chapter behind the Taj Mahal history.


Epitome Of Love -Taj Mahal

Shahjahan, who was a passionate builder, now decided to erect a memorial to his queen in pristine marble that the world would never forget. The site selected for the tomb was a garden by the Yamuna river, unshadowed by any other structure. The garden had been laid by Raja Man Singh of Amber and now belonged to his grndson, Raja Jai Singh. By a royal firman, Shahjahan gave Jai Singh four havelis in exchange for the garden. The site was also chosen because it was located on a bend in the river, and so could be seen from Shahjahan’s personal palace in Agra Fort, further upstream. This is why Taj Mahal history is still reminded by the lovers all over.

Construction Of The Mausoleum - Taj Mahal

                                                                             The history of Taj Mahal behind its construction is quite amusing. Work on the mausoleum began in 1633 and 20,000 workers laboured for 17 years to build it. The most skilled architects, inlay craftsmen, calligraphers, stone-carvers and masons came from all across Indian and lands as distant as Persia and Turkey. The master mason was from Baghdab, an expert in building the double dome from Persia, and an inlay specialist from Delhi.

Yemen sent agates, the corals came from Arabia, the garnets from Bundelkhand, onyx and amethyst from Persia. Mumtaz Mahal’s final resting-place was ornamented like a queen’s jewel-box.
This is the undying story that has now became an integral part of the Taj Mahal history and its construction.


TEN AMAZING PLACES

TOP TEN MOST AMAZING PLACES


The world is filled with amazing things to see – both natural and man-made. There are many great historical sites built by ancient civilizations it is sometimes hard to just narrow it down to a few. Think of all the historical wonders list out there and how different they are sometimes. Everyone has their own list, including me. Below are the sites I find best, think give a great look at human history and civilization, and think every traveler should try to visit at some point. These are places so great that flocks of people fly from all corners of the world to see them each year. Yes you might have to put up with crowds but the he story these ruins tell is part of our humanities story and that is why I love them the best:

Machu Picchu
Located in southern
Peru, this fascinating city lies on top of a mountain that’s only accessible by train or 4-day trek. It was an important cultural center for the Inca civilization, but was abandoned when the Spanish came. It is famously referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas." The location was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. It was also named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Concerns over growing numbers of tourists have led to limitations on how many people can enter the site, though only by a fraction of what is necessary. Hopefully they will limit it even more so this site lasts for hundreds of years more.

Tikal

This Mayan city-state is one of the largest and best-preserved ruins of the civilization, and was a dominant force in the Mayan world. Located in
Guatemala, this place lets you experience your inner-Indy early in the morning or late at night when the tourists go home and it’s just you and the jungle. It was very serene and one of the best travel memories I have. I particularly enjoyed seeing the sunrise from atop the temples. It’s a wonderful place to explore, deserves at least two days, and is easily accessible from neighboring Belize. (Random trivia: The city at the end of Star Wars: A New Hope? Tikal!)


The Pyramids at Giza

Over 3,000 years old, and we still don’t have a good idea as to how they were built or how the Egyptians got them so precise. The Pyramids align to the stars and the solstices and contain vast chambers we still haven’t opened. I mean what do those little chambers where people can’t even crawl through mean? How did they even build them?! Aliens? They are truly a marvel of human engineering that was fit for kings. The largest one, called the Great Pyramid, was built by the Pharaoh Khufu and has limited access to it. You will also find the Sphinx in this area, another historical site that baffles researchers with its mysteries and is the subject of many conspiracy theories. Due to the Egypt revolution in 2011, tourism is drastically down though the revolution is over. If you ever wanted a time to have the pyramids to yourself, now is the time to visit.

Angkor Wat

This ancient city in
Cambodia was the center of the Khmer empire that once ruled most of Southeast Asia. This empire went extinct, but not before building amazing temples and buildings that were reclaimed by the jungle for hundreds of years. Though Angkor Wat is packed with tourists, it’s still breathtaking to see. And the temple regions to the north and south see far fewer tourists than the main temple group. (Though admittingly, some of them are simply piles of stone rubble now.) The best time to visit is early in the morning before the tour groups arrive and stay late. The most popular temples are Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom and they always have crowds. In order to really experience the temples, you’ll need to purchase the three- or five-day pass.


Petra
arved into a canyon in Arabah, Jordan, Petra was made famous by the third Indiana Jones film when he went to find the Holy Grail. Since then, everyone goes to look for it. It was "discovered" in 1812 by a Swiss explorer who followed some local tribesmen there. Prior to that, it had been forgotten to the Western world. Though its founding is not known, it appears this place had settlers as early as the 6th century B.C. Under Roman rule, the site declined rapidly and was abandoned by the late 4th century. In 1985, Petra became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was recently named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is now one of the coolest and biggest attractions in the world.

Stonehenge

Located near
Salisbury, England, this megalithic structure is over 3,000 years old, and its stones come all the way from Wales. Scholars still are not sure how the builders got the stones from Wales, and have tried to replicate the feat with dismal results. Stonehenge is now fenced off, and you can no longer go into the circle. Visitors can only walk around the attraction. But it’s worth visiting for the mystery behind it and the really good audio tour.


Colosseum/Forum

The Colosseum and the Forum are right next to each other in
Rome, so I included them together. Remnants of a civilization that once controlled the "known" world, these sites are breathtaking not only for their beauty but also for their history and age. You’re standing in the spot Caesar walked and gazing into the arena where gladiators battled to the death. The Colosseum has slowly crumbled throughout the ages and much of it is restricted now, especially the floor and basement where everything was organized. The Forum is great to walk around (and it’s free!!), though a ticket is required for Palatine Hill. I would definitely get a guided tour because the information presented by the authorities doesn’t go into much depth.

Parthenon

Though currently getting a face-lift (and seemingly has been forever), the Parthenon is still amazing and breathtaking. The ancient temple to Athena stands as a symbol of the power of
Athens and a testament to Greek civilization. Moreover, it provides a great view of Athens and nearby ruins. The surrounding ruins, temples, and buildings are equally as wondrous. Built in the 5th century B.C., the temple used to house the treasury. Over the centuries, much of it and the surrounding structures have been destroyed by war and thieves. Luckily, the structure still stands… at least for now. Note that there is scaffolding along the right side of the structure and considering it has been there for over 5 years, I doubt it is going anywhere anytime soon.




Easter Island

Located out in the Pacific Ocean and a special territory of Chile, Easter Island holds Moai statues that are the only thing left of a culture that once lived here. These gigantic and amazingly carved heads are just another reminder that primitive people are not really all that primitive. The stones that attract visitors to this island are made out of volcanic ash. Many still remain in the quarry, left by the settlers as diminishing resources on the island left their tribes doomed to war that finally killed them off.

Taj Mahal

Built in the 1600s, this building is a testament to undying love. Located in Agra, India, this white marble tomb built for Emperor Shah Jahan’s deceased wife is a must-see for everyone. In 1983, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Taj sees between two and four million tourists annually. There have been recent restrictions on tourism in an effort to help protect the site. However, the greatest threat to the site is the air pollution that is destroying the white marble the building is constructed of. It too was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Most Amazing Places And Culture

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