A country's heritage is a mark of legacy that it inherits from the bygone eras. With the objective of continuing this legacy, UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural organization) has aimed to preserve our heritage for future generations.
The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia are a few examples of the UNESCO world heritage sites that are always bustling with tourists. However, a few offbeat destinations that represent a rich blend of cultures are still lesser known! Here is a list of World Heritage Sites that must be on your bucket-list if you are an avid traveller.
A World Heritage Site is a place listed by UNESCO that holds special cultural significance
1.Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is home to a horde of heritage sites. The most fascinating among them is the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the second capital of the country, rarely found on any travel itinerary. This city has witnessed several civilizations. Hence, it comprises of Brahmanic sculptures built by the Cholas and monumental ruins of the Sinhalese emperors. The Buddhist sanctuaries, temples of Lord Shiva and Atadage (Temple of the Tooth Relic) are a few renowned sites that bring forth the astounding architectural style and uniqueness of various cultures.
Polonnaruwa is the second most ancient kingdom on Sri Lanka
2.Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
A scintillating and pristine bay in the Gulf of Tonkin, Ha Long Bay in Vietnam is known for its emerald waters and limestone islands. The name translates to “Bay of Descending Dragons”. The whole bay comprises of more than 1600 islands and islets, most of them are uninhabited by humans. A few of these are merely limestone pillars rising out of the sea. Because of their precipitous nature, most of the islands are uninhabited.
The Karst limestone formations due to erosion activities have resulted in arches, caves and conical peaks. In addition, it is rich in flora and fauna. Boat tours and kayak expeditions will let you pay a visit to the islands named for their shapes, including Stone Dog and Teapot islands. The property is protected by a range of national and provincial laws that includes Environmental Protection Law, Fishery Law and Tourism Law.
The Ha Long Bay includes 1,960-2,000 islets, most of which are limestone
3.Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Exquisitely built, Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in the world. The town is located in the centre of a large oasis in the valley of Zerafshan River. Initially known as Afrasiab, it came into prominence since it was situated at the crossing of trade routes between China, Iran and India. The city then became an important centre for silk trade. Hence, it is regarded as a crossroads of the world's cultures. Its importance can be witnessed in the works of English poets. The city has preserved the ancient remains of the Timurid civilization. The main monuments are mosques, madrasahs and mausoleums and some remains of an observatory.
Samarkand was built as early as in 7th century BC
4. Ephesus, Turkey
Experience the grandeur of the two greatest civilizations, Roman and Greek, at Ephesus. It is a living proof of the rich cultural heritage that flourished in this city. This city is a perfect example of a Roman port city consisting of sea channels and sea basins. The Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre exemplify the architectural finesse of the Roman Imperial Period.
Ruins of one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Temple of Artemis, can be found here. The House of the Virgin Mary, a domed chapel, is a major place of Christian pilgrimage. According to legends, Mary was taken here by St. Johns where she lived until her assumption or dormition.
Ephesus is an example of a Roman port city, with a sea channel and harbor basin
5.Bergpark Wilhelmshohe, Germany
The Bergpark Wilhelmshohe park displays German mastery over technical and artistic aspects of the late 17th century. The monumental waterworks along with the size of the park are a testimony to the aesthetics of the Baroque and Romantic periods. The descending hill is dominated by a giant statue of Hercules. Reservoirs and channels behind this statue supply water to the site's large Baroque water theatre, grotto, fountains and 350-metre long Grand Cascade.
Grandeur of technology and art at Bergpark Wilhelmshohe
As you pack your bags to visit these heritage landmarks, don’t forget to opt for a comprehensive travel insurance plan. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe as they globetrot and experience a hassle-free vacation.