The Top 5 Must-See Landmarks in Asia

 


This article highlights the top five must-see landmarks in Asia, including the Great Wall of China, Angkor Wat, Taj Mahal, Petronas Towers, and Gyeongbokgung Palace.


Introduction

Asia is the largest continent in the world and home to some of the most iconic landmarks that are not only architecturally significant but also deeply rooted in history and culture. From the stunning temples of Southeast Asia to the towering skyscrapers of East Asia, there is no shortage of breathtaking sights to see. In this article, we will be exploring the top five must-see landmarks in Asia and why they should be on your travel itinerary.


1. The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is arguably the most recognizable landmark in Asia and one of the world's most iconic landmarks. Spanning over 13,000 miles, it is the longest wall in the world and was built to protect China from invaders during the Ming Dynasty. The Great Wall can be visited at multiple locations, but the most popular section is the Badaling Great Wall located just outside of Beijing. The Badaling section is fully restored and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.


If you are looking for a more secluded experience, the Mutianyu section is a great alternative. It is located about an hour and a half outside of Beijing and is less crowded than Badaling. The Mutianyu section also features a unique feature - a toboggan ride down the wall.



2. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was built in the early 12th century by the Khmer Empire and is considered a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Angkor Wat is a must-see landmark for anyone interested in history, culture, or architecture.


The temple is best visited at sunrise, as the orange glow of the sun rising over the temple creates a breathtaking scene. You can hire a guide or explore the temple on your own. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as the temple complex is vast and requires a lot of walking.



3. Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum located in Agra, India. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. The Taj Mahal is a symbol of love and has become an icon of India.


Visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise is a must-do experience. The soft pink and orange hues of the sunrise reflecting off the white marble of the Taj Mahal create a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be required to remove your shoes before entering the mausoleum.



4. Petronas Towers, Malaysia

The Petronas Towers are twin skyscrapers located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They were the tallest buildings in the world when they were completed in 1998 and remain the tallest twin towers in the world. The towers are an iconic landmark of Kuala Lumpur and a symbol of modernity in Malaysia.


Visitors can take a trip to the observation deck on the 86th floor of the towers for stunning views of the city. The observation deck is open from 9 am to 9 pm daily, and tickets can be purchased in advance.



5. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace is a grand palace located in the heart of Seoul, the capital of South Korea. It was built in the late 14th century and served as the main royal palace for many years. The palace is famous for its stunning architecture and the changing of the guards ceremony that takes place multiple times a day. Visitors can explore the palace grounds, watch traditional performances, and even dress up in traditional Korean clothing.



Conclusion

In conclusion, Asia is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, from the Great Wall of China to the Taj Mahal. These landmarks are not only architecturally significant but also deeply rooted in history and culture, making them must-see destinations for any traveler. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or modern architecture, there is something for everyone in Asia. So why not add these five must-see landmarks to your travel itinerary and experience the beauty of Asia for yourself?


References

  • UNESCO. (n.d.). Angkor. Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/668
  • Lonely Planet. (2022). Great Wall of China. Retrieved from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/great-wall
  • Lonely Planet. (2022). Angkor Wat. Retrieved from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/cambodia/angkor-wat
  • Taj Mahal. (2022). Visit Taj Mahal. Retrieved from https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/
  • Petronas Towers. (2022). Official Website. Retrieved from https://www.petronastwintowers.com.my/
  • Japan Guide. (2022). Mount Fuji. Retrieved from https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2172.html