10 Most Famous Landmarks in Taiwan

10 Most Famous Landmarks in Taiwan

1. Taipei 101

Taipei 101, one of the world's most famous skyscrapers and the well known landmark of Taiwan, situated in the commercial heart of Taipei City. Standing at a height of 508 m, the world second highest building after the Burf Khalifa of Dubai. Taipei 101 is a combination of the financial power of Taiwan and classic Taiwanese architecture. The building is constructed to represent a shoot of bamboo, the interior of the building is a mix of commercial and business properties. Beside the Taiwan's biggest business and some finest dining, Taipei 101 also offers opportunities for visitors to observe the panoramic views of the Taipei City and the island itself, either at indoor or outdoor observation decks in 89th and 91st floor respectively. Each night, the skin of the building displays one of seven spectrum colours of light and a bright yellow gleam from its pinnacle casts Taipei 101 in the role of a candle or torch upholding the ideals of liberty and welcome.

2. Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall

The Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall, one of the most important monuments in Taiwan, was built to commemorate the life of the former president of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai Shek, in 1976 and officially opened in 1980. Located in the city of Taipei, the Memorial Hall is built inside a walled complex, which is called as Liberty Square, with nicely landscaped gardens, ponds and walkways. The Memorial Hall is in gleaming white marble and topped by an octagonal roof of brilliant blue-glazed which can be seen on the major archways that lead into the square. Inside the main hall contains a large bronze statue of Chiang Kai Shek which is shown smiling, seated and wearing traditional costume. The memorial statue and hall is on the upper level while the lower level of the Liberty Square contains the National Theater and National Concert Hall, which are two great venues for the performing arts regularly featuring famous artists from Taiwan and abroad.

3. National Palace Museum

National Palace Museum is one of the best art museums in the world with more than three million visitors annually. The museum is home to almost 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese artifacts and artworks, making it one of the world's largest collection of Chinese arts. Due to the large number of collections, the items display in the museum are rotated once every three months in order to let the public has the chances to see most of them. Ancient bronze castings, gold items, jade, porcelains and potteries, lacquer ware, textiles, carvings, art of writing, scroll paintings and rare books are exhibited here, some of the collections are from prehistoric times dating back to more than five thousand years. During the month of October, the museum displays some very rare and exquisite artifacts, making it the best time to visit.

4. Longshan Temple

Longshan Temple, an old and famous temple in Taipei City, was built in 1738 for worshiping Guanshiyin, the Goddess of Mercy, and other divine spirits. The temple had been destroyed several times by natural disasters and war, but already returned to its origin after the restoration. Longshan Temple  is divided into front hall, main hall, rear hall, right wing and left wing. Inside the temple there are hundred of statues of Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian deities. On each 1st and 15th day each month of lunar year, regular visitors will come to the temple for worship ceremony. The temple is not only a place for worship, it is also a sightseeing attraction and a second-degree historical site which attracts hundreds of thousands of domestic and international tourists each year.

5. Queen's Head of Yehliu Geopark

Yehliu Geopark, located in a cape of Wanli District of New Taipei City in Northern Taiwan, is a famous tourist spots for its fascinating natural rock formations. The cape, roughly 1,700 m long and 200 m wide with the narrowest part 50 m, was formed as geological forces pushed Datun Mountain out of the sea. A distinctive feature of the cape is the different shapes and sizes of hoodoo stones which were formed by the seawater erosion after a prolonged period of time without any artificial sculpturing. Some of the rock formations have been given imaginative names based on their shapes. The most well-known is the Queen's Head rock, a landmark in Yehliu and Taiwan as well. Other formations include the Fairy Shoe rock, Bee Hive rock, angel’s sandal, mushroom rock, honeycomb rock, bean curd rock, candlestick rock, ginger rock and many. These unique landscapes are magnificent works of mother nature and are among some of the most spectacular sights in the world.

6. Taroka National Park

Taroko National Park, famous for its scenic marble-walled gorges, is located in Hualien County, Eastern Taiwan. It was established in 1986 for the purpose of protecting the natural scenery, historical relics and wildlife. Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors both local and abroad come to the Taroko National Park to witness its vertical marble walls, spectacular mountains and gorges, sheer precipices and contorted tunnels along the route of the Liwu River. The most spectacular scenery is from Swallow Grotto to the Cihmu Bridge by traversing the beautiful Tunnel of Nine Turns. Eternal Spring Shrine is a landmark and memorial shrine which must not be missed. The major picturesque points of the park is the famous Baiyang Waterfall and the Qingshui Cliff. Both are the perfect expressions of the topographic natural wonder of Taroko National Park.  

7. Alisan National Scenic Area

Alishan National Scenic Area, located in Chiayi County in southern Taiwan, is a mountain resort and nature preserve area. The 415 km² area includes mountain wilderness with wide variety of plants and animals, Alishan Forest Railway, villages, waterfalls, high mountain Alishan tea and wasabi plantations, beautiful sunrise and sunset sceneries, sea of clouds and several hiking trails that make Alishan becomes one of the most famous tourist destinations and major landmark in Taiwan as well as international.   

8. Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake, situated in Yuchi, Nantou province, is one of the most beautiful and famous tourist destinations in Taiwan and Asia as well. The largest lake in Taiwan with a total surface area of 7.93 km² and shaped like an irregular rhombus. The eastern part of the Sun Moon Lake looks like a round sun while the western part resembles a crescent moon. Hence, it was named “Sun Moon Lake.” The lake is known for its turquoise water and surrounding green mountains. The calm water of the lake reflects the mountains which rise on all sides giving the impression of a Chinese landscape painting. Its natural beauty is enhanced by numerous cultural and historical sites, and is a favourite destination for domestic and international tourists.

9. Taichung Park

Taichung Park is located on the site of the original settlement that predates the founding of Taichung City, making it one of the longest-standing landmarks in the city. The park itself was established over 100 years ago during the Ching Dynasty and was developed further under the Japanese colonial authorities, who completed it in 1903 and built the park's famous pavilions as a special residence for the visiting Japanese crown prince. More than any other landmark, the distinctive pavilions remain the most enduring symbol of Taichung City. The park remains a popular destination for residents, particularly on weekends, who come to enjoy its small lake, row boating, and various tree-lined paths. During traditional festivals, such as Lantern Festival and Mid-Autumn (Moon) Festival, the park is frequently the site of folk performances and displays.

10. Chihkan Tower

Chihkan or Chikan Tower, formerly known as Fort Provintia, is one of the famous historic site and landmark in Tainan as well as Taiwan. It was built during the Dutch colonial in 1653. Since 1945, the fort was known as '' Red-topped Tower'' where the name derived from the Taiwanese aboriginal word ''Chakam''. Today, Chikan Tower is its official name. Even though Chihkan Tower has gone through different historical periods, but still remains its rich and graceful architectural aspects. Crammed with various kinds of steles, stone horses, weight lifting rocks, stone weights, and nine stone tortoises carrying royal stele carved in both Chinese and Manchurian, the courtyard looks like an outdoor museum.

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10 Most Scenic National Parks in India

10 Most Scenic National Parks in India

10 Most Beautiful India National Parks Scenic

1. Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is situated at Vindhya hills in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh. It consists of a core area of 105 km² and a buffer area of 437 km². The topography varies between steep rocky hills, tropical forest, meadow valleys, woodlands and the dense Sal forest, and making the park one of the most dramatic landscape in the country. Bandhavgarh National Park is well known for the highest density of the Royal Bengal Tigers population and one of the most important wildlife conservation area in India. The park was the former hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa and at present is a famous natural hub for White Tigers. White Tigers, now a major attraction around the world's zoos, were first discovered in Rewa, not far from here. Apart from the wildlife, the park also consists of a millennium old fort and a famous declining statue of Lord Vishnu that enhancing the tourist attraction of Bandhavgarh National Park.

2. Valley of Flowers National Park

The famous Valley of Flowers with the largest concentration of various species of wild flowers is located in Uttarakhand, a northern state of India bordered by Tibet and Nepal on north and east. This beautiful high-altitude Himalayan valley that has been acknowledged as such by renowned mountaineers and botanists in literature for over a century and in Hindu mythology for much longer. Its ‘gentle’ landscape, breathtakingly beautiful meadows of alpine flowers and ease of access complement the rugged, mountain wilderness for which the inner basin of Nanda Devi National Park is renowned. Valley of flower is splashed with colour as it bloomed with more than three hundreds different beautiful flowers, taking on various shades of colours as time progressed. The valley was declared as a national park in 1982, and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005. The locals, of course, always knew of the existence of the valley, and believed that it was inhabited by fairies.

3. Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park, the oldest national park of India established in 1936, covers an area of more than 500 km² in the Himalayan foothills. It is well known for its varied wildlife, and as the site for the launching of Project Tiger. Other wildlife animals found in this park includes the elephant, chital, sambar, nilgai, gharial, King Cobra, muntjac, wild boar, hedgehog, common musk shrew, flying fox, Indian Pangolin, and nearly 600 species of birds. The park also contains more than 400 species of flora and dense moist deciduous forest mainly consists of sal, haldu, pipal, rohini and mango trees. A perfect ecotorism destination which receives thousands of visitors every year. The park also offers variety of activities, such as wildlife, elephant, jeep and open bus safaris, birdwatching, fishing and angling to give tourists an enjoyable and unforgettable experience while visiting the Jim Corbett National Park.

4. Desert National Park

Desert National Park is located near the town of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan state of West India and exemplifies the unusual ecological biodiversity of the renowned Thar desert, the only desert of India. Its fragile and unique ecosystem supports different and unusual various forms of life in form of wildlife species. All these plants and animals can be seen widespread in the Desert National Park, which is the biggest park of India in terms of wildlife. The park is situated very close to India-Pakistan border and is an excellent example of diverse wildlife. Located in the most hot and humid temperature zone area, this land can be witnessed with rugged mountains, cracked land, salt lake bottoms and sand dunes, still is a perfect place to explore birds (especially the Indian Bustards), reptiles and many other animals. Tourists can also enjoy the adventures camel or jeep safari on the sand dunes, which gives an unforgettable experience.

5. Great Himalayan National Park

Great Himalayan National Park is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, a beautiful district with snow-capped mountains, ice glaciers, river valleys, alpine forests and steep cliffs. The park is surrounded on three sides by towering peaks of Himalayan mountains, offering the most eye landscapes in the world. It spreads over an area of 754 km² and lies between an altitude of 1,500 m to 6,000 m. The area is home to many different species of wildlife along with more of alpine flora is one of the best example of Himalayan ecosystems which remains undisturbed. To protect the alpine, subtropical forest, glaciers, temperate, and the endangered wildlife species, this area has attained the status of a national park in 1984. The glaciers available in this park is the main source of four rivers namely Tirthan, Sainj, Parvati and Jiwa Nala, flowing from East to West and mingling into Beas river. Due to its bewitching beauty, mega biodiversity and unique flora and fauna, the park becomes one of the favourite destination and draws lot of tourist attention.

6. Kudremukh National Park

Kudremukh National Park is located in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Chikmagalur districts of Karnataka states. It encompasses an area of 600 km² and lies at an elevation of 1,894 m above sea level. The park is covered with thick hilly forests, mostly evergreen and semi evergreen on western portion. The plantations of Eucalyptus, Casuarina, Acacia auriculiformis and Grevillea robusta can be witnessed here in plenty. While on the northern and eastern sides, the park is surrounded by coffee and tea plantations. Its high annual rainfall, humid climate and tremendous water retention capacity of the shola grasslands and forests has resulted in the formation of thousands of perennial streams in the region converge to form three major rivers, Tunga, Bhadra and Nethravathi. All these man-made forests and natural beauty has made Kudremukh one of the most scenic national parks of India.

7. Hemis National Park

Hemis National Park, a high altitude park, is located in the eastern Ladakh region of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It includes the catchments of three wonderful valleys, Markha, Sumdah and Rumbak, which drain into the Indus River. It is named after the hundreds of years old Hemis Gompa, a famous Tibetan Buddhist monastery. The park was initially founded in 1981 by protecting the Markha and Rumbak catchments, an area of about 600 km². Later, it was enlarged twice in 1988 and 1990 until 4,400 km², the largest national park in India. This magnificent park comprises of hard limestone mountains. All around the place one can see enormous white colored rocks. The peaks range from about 3,300 m to 6,420 m. These rocky cliffs provide a unique view with captivating beauty. Dry alpine pastures are present in sheltered locations and grass growth is relatively rapid during the summer season after the melting of the snow. The most prominent animal found here is Snow Leopard which has given this park, a status of Snow Leopard Capital of India.

8. Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve is situated within the confines of the Western Ghats in the Idukki district in Kerala. This park is one of the most captivating wildlife parks in the world and also one of the largest and finest wildlife reserves in India. The Periyar National Park is surrounded by an artificial Periyar lake. This lake was formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river and covers an area of 55 km². This lake, which initially led to the submersion of large tracts of forestland, however became an excellent wildlife sanctuary. In 1978, Periyar was declared as a tiger reserve under the Project Tiger. Periyar National park covers an area of 777 km², out of which 360 km² are covered by thick evergreen forest. The boat cruise on the lake is the best way to view the wildlife in the reserve. 

9. Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park, one of India's finest national parks established in 1974, is situated in Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam, the gateway to the fabulous North East of India, home to several endangered species, especially the famous Great Indian One Horned Rhinoceros. Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was protected since the early 1900s upon the initiative of Lady Curzon. This 430 km² park is a unique habitat, where much of it lies in the floodplain of the mighty Bhramaputra River and is flooded every year. The wet grassland is characterized by ox-bow lakes or known as beels, caused when the flood waters retreat, and elevated flats called chapories where animals shelter during floods. Today many artificial chapories are build with the help of the Indian Army. Though the landscape of much of Kaziranga looks pancake flat, on closer approach one realizes that most of this flatness is in fact elephant grass, which may grow up to fifteen feet in height.

10. Gangotri National Park

Gangotri, another famous national park of Uttarakhand, offers majestic beauty of coniferous forests and grandeur of glacier world combined with lush green meadows. The park covers an area of 1,553 km², including the upper catchment of Bhagirathi River, falls in Himalayan region lies between an altitude of 1,300 m to 7,000 m. At the lower elevation, the park is covered by Himalayan subalpine conifer forests, while the Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows at higher elevation. The vegetation found here mainly consist of chir pine, deodar, fir, spruce, oak and rhododendrons. There are 15 species of mammals and 150 bird species have been recorded in this area. Apart from its wonderful flora and fauna, thousands of visitors come here each year to witness the Gomukh (terminus glacier), which is source of Ganges River and the untouched, captivating beauty of the Gangotri National Park.

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10 Most Interesting Places in Nepal

10 Most Interesting Places in Nepal

10 Most Interesting Places Nepal

1. Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Valley, the political, commercial and cultural hub of Nepal, is the first stop for the majority of visitors to the country. The valley contains three fabled cities, Kathmandu, Patan (Lalitpur) and Bhaktapur. The history of the Katmandu Valley begins with the Buddhist saint Manjushree who slashed a passage through the surrounding green hills to drain out the primordial waters and make it inhabitable. Over the centuries, a refined urban civilization emerged, built on a unique synthesis of Hinduism and Buddhism. Dynasties came and went. Trade and the arts flourished. Its deeply religious Newar inhabitants built fabulous cities and artistic temples that attracted devout pilgrims as well as rampaging invaders. In the late 18th century, following the founding of modern Nepal within more or less the present boundaries, Kathmandu was made as the capital. Kathmandu, the largest city in Nepal, is situated at an altitude of 1,350 m. Out of ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites, seven cultural heritage sites are located in this valley, including three famous Durbar Square in each of the cities, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Changu Narayan.

2. Nagarkot

Nagarkot, situated 32 km east of Kathmandu, is one of the most scenic spot in Bhaktapur District. The place famous for its spectacular sunrise view of the Himalaya when the weather is clear. Many visitors travel to Nagarkot from Kathmandu and stay overnight just because to witness and enjoy the breathtaking sunrise view of the snow-topped peaks of the Himalaya range, especially the world's most renowned Mount Everest. Beside the beautiful sunrise scenery, Nagarkot also offers excellent view of the Indrawati River. The valleys that surrounding the river offer another beautiful view when the area break out in a rich kaleidoscope of different coloured flowers in Spring. The colourful flowers with the serene backdrop of snow-covered mountains have made Nagarkot becomes one of the most beautiful and interesting places in Nepal.

3. Pokhara

Pokhara is an enchanting city adorned with nature's finest manifestations, the glittering fish-tail summit, blue water lakes, gorges and deep ravines. It is the starting point for many of Nepal's most popular trekking and rafting destinations and is 200 km away from Kathmandu. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the fish-tail summit of Machhapuchhre (6,977 m) rising behind it creates an ambience of peace and magic. The valley surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forest gushing river, clear lakes and the world famous views of the Himalaya. Pokhara is connected by air as well or by road from Kathmandu and Bhairawa, a border town near India. Pokhara offers magnificent views of Dhaulagari, Manasulu, Machchhapuchhre, five peaks of Annapurna and others.

4. Lumbini

Lumbini, the place where Lord Buddha was born, is a popular destination for Buddhist pilgrims as well as visitors from many different parts of the world, and also is regarded as a symbol of peace and understanding in the world community. Lumbini, like the Buddha, stands peacefully and calm, away from the crowds of the cities, on the southern plains of the country, surrounded by forests. Lord Buddha is believed to have been born in Lumbini as Prince Sidhartha, when his mother Queen Mayadevi of Kapilbastu stopped to rest on her way to her parent's palace in a neighboring country some 2,600 years ago. People here also believe that she chose the place because of its peaceful setting. Although there are no cities or heavy population nearby, there are plans to develop the area, with gardens, trees, canal, accommodation facilities and even a library for those who comes to Lumbini.

5. Tsum Valley

Tsum Valley, located in a trans-Himalaya region of Gorkha, is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley. Tsum comes from the Tibetan work 'Tsombo', which means vivid. Against the majestic backdrop of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal and Baudha Himal ranges, this serene Himalayan valley is rich in ancient art, culture, and religion. The local people are mostly of Tibetan origin and speak a unique dialect. Trails are strewn with artistic chortens and lined with mani walls made of thousands of stone slabs carved with deities and prayers. The Tsum valley has a long history of Buddhism. The Buddhist saint Milarepa is believed to have meditated in the caves of there mountains. Traditionally Tsum valley was a culturally distinct geographical area called 'Tsum Tso Chuksum', which means thirteen provinces ruled as a single territory. The ancient remains of the Tsum Kingdom are still visible today. Due to its remoteness and inaccessibility, this sacred valley and its people have been bypassed by mainstream development for centuries. As a result, the unique culture of this valley has remained intact.

6. Mustang

Mustang, located north of the Annapurna range, is very isolated and geographically a part of Tibet. At the time of the Kingdom of Lo, Mustang prospered and dominated the Kali Gandaki River trade between India and Tibet. Now incorporated into Nepal, Mustang still remained off limits to foreigners until 1992. It is a land where mountains over 8000 m high cast shadows over the world's deepest canyon. A weird and wonderful desert land where nomadic shepherds herd their flocks across desolate mountain slopes, coloured brown, blue, yellow and red by natural earth pigments and sculpted by the forces of wind. The scene is completed by the addition of picturesque white painted villages, Tibetan monasteries, prayer walls, chortens and the fairy-tale walled city of Lo Manthang, the capital of Mustang.

7. Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is one of the most interesting tourist destination in Nepal due to its natural wonders. The park encompasses an area of 932 km² in southern centre of Nepal and consists of a diversity of ecosystems, including the Churia Hills, lakes and the flood plains of the Rapti, Reu and Narayani Rivers. The Churia Hills rise slowly towards the east from the altitude of 150 m to more than 800 m. The western portion of the park is comprised of the lower hills but more rugged and it shares its western boundary with the ''Parsa Wildlife Reserve''. One of the major activities provided by the national park is elephant safari where the visitors may have the opportunity to get a closer view of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros while riding on the elephants. One may also get a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger. Beside that, the park is also home for more that 50 mammal species, over 525 birds, and 55 amphibians and reptiles. Chitwan was the first national park of Nepal formed in 1973 and it was also a World Heritage Site declared by UNESCO in 1984 as recognising its unique ecosystems of international significance.

8. Daman

Daman, a small village situated 80 km south-west of Kathmandu at an altitude of about 2,400 m. It is located on the Tribhuvan highway in between Kathmandu and the town of Birgunj which can be reached in four hours drive from Kathmandu. For the view of the breathtaking grandeur of the world’s highest peaks extending in one glittering are from far west of Dhaulagiri to far east of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) there is no better place than Daman. There is a view tower fitted with long range telescopes to help visitors have a better view of the serene Himalaya chain.

9. Janakpur

Janakpur city, the Headquarter of Dhanusha district of Nepal, is about 400 km south-east of Kathmandu. This is a popular city in the Terai region. Janakpur is also known as Janakpurdham (Dham in Nepali means a scared region) It has a temple named Janaki, which is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Sita. This region also offers an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn about Mithila culture, and people from in and around this peaceful region of Nepal. Hindu pilgrims from India and Nepal visit this region to pay their respect to the Goddess, while many foreigners make a side-trip to the region to learn about the unique Janakpur-life.

10. Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar is a famous small town in Solukhumbu District in the Sagarmatha Zone of north-eastern Nepal. It sits at an elevation of 3440 m and is close to the highest peak in the world, Sagarmatha or Mt. Everest. Namche Bazaar is the entrance to the Everest region and is a popular resting or final destination for trekkers. The place is also the home of legendary Sherpas, a high altitude group of people who are famous for helping the mountaineering travellers reach their destination. Namche Bazaar is used as the starting point for trekking to the other high elevation towns like Thyangboche, Debuche, Periche, Pangboche, Lobuche and Gorakhshep which are all famous for their own reasons in the Everest region. It is also the gateway to the Sagarmatha National Park which is renowned as world's highest national park and natural heritage site as well.

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10 Great National Parks in Indonesia

10 Great National Parks in Indonesia

10 Great Ecotourism Indonesia National Parks

1. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is one of the most famous national park and also a popular tourist destination because of its beautiful mountain landscapes and fascinating volcanic cones. It was established in 1982 and spanning an area of 503 km² in East Java, about 53 km from Malang town. The different of this national park is the only Indonesia's conservation area that has a sand sea, the Tengger Sand Sea, across which is the caldera of an ancient volcano from which several new volcanic cones have emerged. This unique feature covers a total area of 5,250 hectares and located at an altitude above 2,100 m. Mount Bromo is one of the volcanoes that sits inside the massive Tengger caldera and surrounded by sand sea. It is easily recognised by its white sulphurous smoke constantly plume from the crater inside. Within the park Mount Semeru is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia, where a huge cloud steam and smoke belched from the crater for every 20 to 30 minutes, sometimes interspersed with ash and stones. Although Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park may described as one of the most dangerous area in Indonesia, but it is still visited by thousands of visitors each year.

2. Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park was declared as a World Heritage site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1986, after six years of establishment. The park is situated within the Lesser Sunda Islands and consists of the three larger islands of Komodo, Rinca, Padar and 26 smaller islands creating a total surface area of 1,817 km². The islands are not only house the world famous and endanger species of Komodo Dragon, the world's largest lizard, but also feature a dramatic wild savannah landscape with patches of forest especially on the southern hills of Komodo and Rinca Islands. Furthermore, these islands are also surrounded by beautiful white and red sand beaches, blue lagoons teeming with diversity of marine life and some of the most spectacular underwater scenery in the world that entice divers and guests from around the world. Komodo National Park indeed a perfect holiday location due to its beautiful deserted beaches, hiking trails, great wildlife, various forms of coral reefs and also many interesting water activities.

3. Tanjung Puting National Park

Tanjung Puting National Park is located on the island of Borneo, south of Kalimantan, Indonesian. The park covers an area of 4,150 km² and consists of dryland dipterocarp forest, peat swamp forest, heath forest, mangrove, coastal beach forest, secondary forest and rivers. It was originally formed by Dutch in 1930s to protect the orangutans and proboscis monkey. In 1977, the park was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and later the government of Indonesia announced it as a national park in 1982. Other animals such as gibbons, macaques, Borneo clouded leopards, sun bears, wild boars, porcupines, and Sambar deer also can be found here. Reptiles, birds, fishes, amphibians and insects which are no exception as part of the animal species in this park too. Due to the area is rich in biodiversity and several important ecosystems, the Tanjuug Puting National Park is a perfect ecotorism destination. Many local tour agents also offer several boat tours to bring visitors a closer view of the wildlife and fascinating tropical rainforest, and a visit to the orangutan rehabilitation center is a must for those who comes to this national park.

4. Bunaken National Park

The Bunaken National Park was officially established in 1991 and is among the Indonesia's first growing system of marine park which is situated in Manado Bay, north of Sulawesi Island. The park consists of five islands; Bunaken, Manado Tua, Montehage, Nain and Siladen, and covers a total surface area of 890.65 km² where the majority is marine habitat and only 3% is terrestrial. The surrounded area is very rich in coral ecosystem and dominated by fringing reef and barrier reef corals. Hundreds of coral species are recorded in this park. Beside the wide variety of coral species, the deep, clear and warm waters around the islands assist the reproduction of plankton, seagrasses and sponges as food and shelter for small fish. Oceanic currents rich in food and nutrients sweep past the area, these attract an abundance of marine life ranging from big pelagics to tiny critters. With the presence of these features, a solid marine and coral ecosystem formed. Each year, thousands of divers, underwater explorers and photographers from every corner of the world come to witness and enjoy the natural beauty of the Bunaken's underwater world.

5. Ujung Kulon National Park

Ujung Kulon National Park is one of the most remote national park in Indonesia. It is located in the extreme southwestern tip of Java Island on the Sunda shelf, includes the Ujung Kulon peninsula and several offshore islands and encompasses the natural reserve of Krakatoa. Due to its remote and isolated location, and difficult to access, Ujung Kulon remains as a native forest and untouched wilderness. It's largest remaining lowland tropical rainforest ecosystem together with the awesome Krakatau volcano and some good beaches with intact coral reefs have become one of the most rewarding national park in Java. In 1991, the park was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and presents some fine opportunities for jungle trekking, canoeing, snorkeling and diving. Ujung Kulon is best known as the last refuge in Java for the one plentiful one-horned rhinoceros which is critically endangered. The number is estimated in 60 and the chances to see them are slim. Beside the rhinoceros, the park also home to many species of mammals, primates, reptiles, amphibians, birds, fishes, insects and hundreds species of flora where some of them are considered as rare. A visit to this amazing tropical rainforest is worth it especially for those who likes the natural flora and fauna. 

6. Gunung Rinjani National Park

Gunung Rinjani National Park is one of the best place for mountain trekking in Southeast Asia where the Indonesia's third highest mountain, Mount Rinjani (3,726 m) sits in the center of the park. Thousands of mountain climbers, adventurers, explorers and travellers around the world come to challenge the Mount Rinjani in order to witness its beautiful mountainous landscape, massive crater, crescent shaped sulfur lake under the crater and new born small volcano formed in the lake. Furthermore, the lush forests sprinkled with waterfalls around the slopes of mountain have also increased the overall natural beauty of Mount Rinjani. This fascinating national park spans an area of 413.30 km² is situated on the island of Lombok and lies within a major bio-geographical transition zone (Wallaceae) where the tropical flora and fauna of Southeast Asia meets that of Australasia.

7. Gunung Leuser National Park

Gunung Leuser National Park is the second largest and the most diverse national parks in Sumatra Island. It covers an area of 7,927 km² in the northern tip of the island. The park encompasses a large portion of Bukit Barisan Mountains, known for its steep, almost inaccessible mountainous terrains. The altitude ranges from beach area in Kluet (South Aceh), to 3,381 meter on top of the Mount Leuser (Southeast Aceh). The breathtaking Alas River cuts the park into an eastern and western half, where your tropical thirst for adrenaline will be captivatingly fulfilled. It also embraces various ecosystems which is a cluster of various nature reserves and forests such as mangroves, beach and swamp forest, lowland rainforest, moss forest, and up to sub-alpine forest. Around 130 species are identified in this national park, including the most famous Sumatran orangutans, the mysterious Sumatran tigers, endangered elephants and rhinos, Siamang monkeys, macaques, clouded leopards, reptiles, fish, and around 325 species of birds. Almost every adventurer who has visited and experienced the Gunung Leuser, surely would not feel any disappointment. Because it is far more than just a great adventure to the last zoo you visited.

8. Lorentz National Park

Lorentz National Park is the largest national park in Indonesia as well as Southeast Asia where the park encompasses a total area of 25,056 km² in Papua Province. It is the only nature reserve in the Asia-Pacific region to contain a full altitudinal array of ecosystems ranging through marine areas, mangroves, tidal and freshwater swamp forest, lowland and montane rainforest, alpine tundra, and equatorial glaciers. Due to the park is located at the meeting point of two colliding continental plates, the area has a complex geology with on-going mountain formation as well as major sculpting by glaciation. At 4,884 m, Puncak Jaya (formerly Carstensz Pyramid) is the tallest mountain between the Himalayas and the Andes. Beside that, the area also contains fossil sites, which record the evolution of life on New Guinea, a high level of endemism and the highest level of biodiversity in the region. A perfect location for adventurers, explorers and researchers because Lorentz National Park still contains many unmapped and unexplored areas, and also many species of plants and animals as yet unknown to Western science.

9. Kerinci Seblat National Park

Kerinci-Seblat National Park is the largest protected area in Sumatra Island, covering a total of 13,791 km². Much of the national park comprises montane and hill forests, some still virtually unexplored. The park is an ASEAN Heritage site and since 2004, it was listed as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site. Kerinci Seblat is recognized as one of the most important reserves in the world for conservation of wild tigers and as a global hotspot for biodiversity. It is famous for its wealth of species where more than 375 species of birds, 86 species of mammal, including elephants, bears, tapirs, and Sumatran clouded leopard, 8 species of primate and 4,000 species of flora have been identified within this park. With the discovery of Muntiacus montanus, the park now has four species of deer and two species of mouse deer, with many local reports of more species remaining to be discovered, including the fabled orang pendek, a primate which has been observed by scientists but not yet scientifically validated.

10. Kelimutu National Park

Kelimutu National Park famous for it’s colored crater lakes. It is still a puzzle for both scientists and locals how the lakes gained its color and eventually change from time-to-time. The color of the three lakes are red, blue and white which eventually turns into black-brown, light green and black. The former red and blue lakes where separated by 200 centimeters wall of earth and located side-by-side while the former white lake is located to the west. This unique natural phenomenon is located on the island of Flores, covering an area of 50 km², the smallest national park of Indonesia declared in 1992. The Kelimutu National Park not only consists of lakes but also mountains, Mount Kelibara as the highest peak and Mount Kelimutu, and also various species of birds, plants and endangered animals. It is one of the best tourist attraction in Indonesia where the visitors may enjoy the surrounding breathtaking views with a cooler climate other than the three unique crater lakes.   

Pada 07.15.00 Komentar

10 Most Favourite Tourist Destinations in Thailand

10 Most Favourite Tourist Destinations in Thailand

10 Most Favourite Spots Thailand Tourist Destinations

1. Grand Palace of Bangkok

The Grand Palace is a large compound built in 1782 which consisted of more than hundred buildings with beautiful gilded architecture, intricate carved decorations and fantastic statues depicting both mythical and the divine. Within the palace, Wat Phra Kaew is the most beautiful and important Buddhist temple in Thailand. It houses Phra Kaew Morakot (also known as the Emerald Buddha), the most highly revered Buddha image carved from a single block of fine jade. Inside the temple, the grounds are scattered by numerous interesting sculptures of artistic value, including the fanciful animals in mythology, the fierce-looking giants standing guard at the gates, the six pairs of Cambodian-style bronze lions and the stone figures from China. The inner surface of the walls which is surrounding the temple are extensive mural paintings depicting scenes from the famous epic ''Ramayana''. It is the longest wall painting in the world as well as one of the Unseen Bangkoks. Today, the Grand Palace is the most famous and popular place that for every tourist who comes to Bangkok.

2. Wat Arun

Wat Arun or also known as Temple of the Dawn, and the full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. Wat Arun is located on the West bank of Chao Phraya river, opposite to Grand Palace. This temple is one of First Class Royal Temple and well known landmark of Bangkok. The most popular attraction at Wat Arun is Group of prangs (imposing spires) in Khmer style, which has the main huge Prang in the center, surrounded by 4 smaller prangs. The main Prang is 81 meters high. The prangs are decorated with colorful pieces of porcelain. Around the bottom of the prangs are variety statues of soldiers and animals from China. Tourists are allowed to climb the main Prang's stairs to enjoy the view of Bangkok city and Chao Phraya River.

3. Ancient City of Ayutthaya

The ancient city of Ayutthaya or Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was built by King U-Thong in 1350 and the Thai capital for 417 years which was ruled by 33 kings, before it was destroyed by Burmese in 1767.  This city was built on an island surrounded by three rivers, Chao Phraya, Lopburi and Pa Sak rivers. There are numerous ruins of temples, religious shrines, pavilions and palaces which can be seen scattering all over the place, especially on the western half of the island. In 1969 the Fine Arts Department began with renovations of the ruins, which became more serious after it was declared a historical park in 1976. After 15 years, the park finally was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991. Every year in December, festivities are organized in the former site of the capital to celebrate the glory of its past. The events include displays of traditional culture and lifestyles, various entertainments and a memorable light and sound show with the backdrop of Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins and temples which attract countless visitors come far away from every corner of the world.

4. Sukhothai Historical Park

Sukhothai ancient city was formed in 1,238 and considered as the first capital of Thailand that thrived between the 13th and 14th centuries. The kingdom had prospered for 200 years before it was replaced by Ayutthaya. This ancient city is surrounded by walls that form a rectangle shape and houses numerous Buddhist shrines, Buddha statues, former palaces and temples. Among all these ancient buildings and statues, Wat Mahathat is the largest and most impressive and important Buddhist temple in Sukhothai. It is the place where the first stone inscription was discovered. The square rock contains Thai letters that are believed to be invented by King Ramkamheang, who is one of the greatest kings in Thailand. Main chedi (stupa), vihara (assembly hall), mandapa, ordination hall (uposatha), approximately 200 subordinate chedis and some fine Buddha images can be found in the same area. These stupas represent various architectural influences from different kingdoms such as Hariphunchai, Lanna and Sri Langka. Two impressive statues of the 12-meter tall standing Buddha, Phra Attharot, enshrines the mandapa on both sides of the principle chedi. In 1988, this ancient city was officially announced as Sukhothai Historical Park and later declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

5. Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Park

Doi Suthep-Dui Pui National Park is one of most visited national park in Thailand which over 3 million visitors annually. It is a place to be visited by each visitor that comes to Chiang Mai. This national park was established in 1981 with spanning an area of 261 square km and home to more than 300 bird species and nearly 2,000 species of ferns and flowering plants. There are several attractions in this national park including the scenic views of Huai Kaeo Waterfall and Khru Ba Siwichai Monument located at the foothill of Doi Suthep Mountain. The major attraction of this luxuriant park is the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which was Chiang Mai’s most important and visible landmark built in 1383. It is located at the hillside of Doi Suthep with an elevation of  1,050 m, and overlooks the city from its forested mountain backdrop. One of the interesting in this temple is the pagoda contains holy Buddha relics that attracts Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world throughout the year. The Bhubing Palace is another attraction which is 4 km further up the mountain. The palace itself is not opened for public, but the visitors may enjoy the beautiful garden in the palace's compound which is full of colourful exotic flowers. Further up another 3 km is Doi Pui Tribal Village where the village presents the typical lifestyle of the Hmong as well as a scenic view of Doi Inthanon, the highest peak of Thailand.

6. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a huge market located in the heart of the city, on the Chang Khlan Road between Tha Phae Road and Si Donchai Road. The night market is famous for its handicrafts and portrait paintings. Other products such as clothes and accessories, bags and luggages, swords and knives, jewelry and watches, ornamental and collective items, bronze and silver products and much more, also available in this night market. The night market opens at about 6 pm until midnight. It’s not just a place to shop, but possibly Chiang Mai’s largest tourist attraction, with products from Northern Thailand and neighbouring countries, especially those associated with Thailand‘s hill tribes – but take all claims with a pinch of salt and bargain hard for good prices.

7. Railay Beach

Railay beach is situated in Krabi Province of southern Thailand. The beach is accessible only by boat, as it is cut off from the mainland by a huge limestone rock formation. The lush green tropical forests, mountains, beautiful beaches, crystal clear water, smooth golden sand, exotic view of nature and fascinating limestone rock formations make this place a paradise on earth. Railay has always attracted adventure lovers, leisure travellers, family vacationers as well as honeymooners from all over the world and has never disappointed them. The huge limestone rock formations are the main attraction for rock climbers and the lush green tropical forest is a home to the wildlife and waterfalls is another attraction to nature lovers and forest explorers. Due to the clean and clear warm seawater, many colourful marine life have been attracted to the surrounding area of Railay, and has made it an ideal place for scuba diving and snorkeling. As the addition, Railay also provides many excellent restaurants with delightful cuisines and exotic resorts and spas. With so much to offer and its nature of beauty, Railay beach definitely deserves to be known as the world's most perfect holiday destination.

8. Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi Island is a group of six islets, Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Le, Yung, Mai Phai, Bida Nok and Bida Nai. The islands are part of a National Marine Park in Krabi Province which can be reached by speedboat from Krabi town or Phuket. Phi Phi island is surrounded by azure deep crystal clear water, countless marine life and also beautiful beaches and coral reefs. Green and hawksbill turtles munching on bubble corals, black and white banded sea snakes, squid, angelfish, black-tip reef sharks and leopard sharks are often in these coastal islands. There are two main islands in the group. Only the largest, Phi Phi Don, hosts tourists and well known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. The smaller island, Phi Phi Le, is also spectacular in its beautiful bays, including Pileh, Maya, Loh Samah and a lovely cove, Ao Pileh. But this small island is frequently visited on day trips only. The neighboring islands, Yung and Mai Pai are teeming with diverse colourful coral reefs. With the emerald crystal sea, secluded beaches, mountain cliffs, colorful coral reefs and undersea life, Phi Phi  Island,  indeed to be called as the island of paradise in the Andaman Sea.

9. Phang Nga Bay National Park 

Phang Nga Bay is one of the most favourite Thailand tourist locations, it appeals significant number of international travellers to this part of the country. The bay is popular for its unique characteristics of limestone cliffs that vertically stand out from the water. The Koh Pannyi and the James Bond Island are the major tourist highlight of this bay. The national park is also home to several other islands, most of which are uninhabited. Some of the islands like, Koh Hong are famous for featuring a wonderful cave. While on a visit to this part of the country, boat rides from the northern end of Phuket is a good ideal which offering spectacular scenic beauties.

10. The Bridge on the River Kwai

The famous Bridge on the River Kwai is located in Kanchanaburi Province. It was first built in 1942 as a part of the railway between Thailand and Burma. At the time of World War II, the Japanese wanted to seek to shorten the supply lines between Japan and Burma in preparation for an eventual attack on British India. Hundreds of thousands of Asian labourers and Allied prisoners-of war were forced by Japanese forces to construct a railway for a distance of about 400 km. More than hundred thousand people lost their lives during the construction of this death railway due to starvation, exhaustion and diseases. The bridge and railway became famous after a novel with the title of ''The Bridge Over the River Kwai'' by Pierre Boulle published in 1952 and later made into a film by David Lean in 1957. Today, there are trains running from Kanchanaburi to the terminus at Nam Tok station for a distance of 50 kilometers and the journey by riding on a tourist train has become one of the main attraction while travelling to Kanchanaburi.

Pada 23.48.00 Komentar