Exploring World Heritage Sites in Tour East Destinations
On September 19, 2023, history was made in Thailand’s Phetchabun province as Si Thep Historical Park was inscribed on the prestigious World Heritage List as “The Ancient Town of Si Thep and Its Associated Dvaravati Monuments.” This was a big deal because it was Thailand’s first cultural World Heritage Site since Ban Chiang in 1992.
To celebrate this special moment, we invite you to join us in exploring the World Heritage Sites found in Tour East destinations. Whether you’re interested in ancient temples in Cambodia, lush rainforests in Indonesia, or historic cities in Korea, Tour East has a wide range of cultural and natural treasures just waiting for you to discover.
THAILAND
1. Historic City of Ayutthaya:
Discover the enchanting ruins of Ayutthaya, the second Siamese capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples and statues.
2. Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns:
Explore the birthplace of Thai civilization, Sukhothai, with its well-preserved historical sites that transport you back in time.
3. Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries:
Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of these wildlife sanctuaries, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
4. Ban Chiang Archaeological Site:
Unearth the secrets of Thailand’s prehistoric past at Ban Chiang, where ancient pottery and artifacts reveal the region’s rich history.
5. Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex:
Lose yourself in the lush greenery of this complex, which boasts a variety of ecosystems and rare wildlife.
6. Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex:
Experience the natural beauty of Kaeng Krachan, Thailand’s largest national park and a haven for biodiversity.
7. The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments:
Visit the newest addition to Thailand’s World Heritage Sites and witness the cultural significance of Si Thep.
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Temple of Preah Vihear. Image via Ruchchanon / Shutterstock |
Koh Ker. Image via long lysong / Shutterstock |
INDONESIA
1. Borobudur Temple Compounds:
Witness the grandeur of Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple and a testament to Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.
2. Komodo National Park:
Encounter the legendary Komodo dragons and explore the stunning landscapes of this unique national park.
3. Prambanan Temple Compounds:
Admire the intricate architecture and cultural significance of Prambanan’s Hindu temples.
4. Ujung Kulon National Park:
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ujung Kulon, home to endangered species and pristine landscapes.
5. Sangiran Early Man Site:
Delve into the fascinating world of archaeology at Sangiran, where early human fossils were discovered.
6. Lorentz National Park:
Explore the diverse ecosystems of Lorentz National Park, a UNESCO site that spans rainforests, glaciers, and mountains.
7. Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra:
Witness the breathtaking beauty of Sumatra’s rainforests and their unique wildlife.
8. Cultural Landscape of Bali Province:
Discover the traditional Subak irrigation system as a manifestation of the Tri Hita Karana philosophy.
9. Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto:
Learn about Indonesia’s coal mining history in Sawahlunto, a testament to the country’s industrial heritage.
10. The Cosmological Axis of Yogyakarta and its Historic Landmarks:
Visit Yogyakarta and explore its historic landmarks, which are deeply rooted in Javanese culture.
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Prambanan Temple. Image via Misbachul Munir / Shutterstock |
Cultural Landscape of Bali. Image via Edmund Lowe Photography / Shutterstock |
LAO
1. Town of Luang Prabang:
Experience the charm of Luang Prabang, a well-preserved town with a rich cultural heritage.
2. Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements within the Champasak Cultural Landscape:
Explore the temple complex of Vat Phou and its surroundings, reflecting the ancient Khmer civilization.
3. Megalithic Jar Sites in Xiengkhuang – Plain of Jars:
Uncover the mystery of the massive stone jars scattered across the landscape of Xiengkhuang.
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Vat Phou. Image via Chuenchillchill / Shutterstock |
Plain of Jars. Image by Peter Stuckings / Shutterstock |
Stay tuned as we continue our journey through World Heritage Sites in Tour East destinations, including Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Singapore, and Vietnam.
For more information about these incredible destinations and their World Heritage Sites, contact Tour East now.
Source: UNESCO World Heritage List
Cover image via Pakpoom Phummee / Shutterstock