Top 10 Picturesque World Heritage Sites

World Heritage sites can be found on every continent in the world and bring pride to local people living in these places. The universal outstanding values must be preserved and protected to prevent them from immediate dangers. Nowadays, tourists have more opportunities to choose wonderful destinations they expect within a series of these greatest landscapes.

This article will introduce you to ten picturesque world heritage sites through stunning photos such as Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), Timbuktu (Mali), the Great Barrier Reef (Australia), the rooftop of Casa Milà (Barcelona), Amalfi Coast (Italy), Pueblo de Taos (Mexico) and Old Quebec (Canada).


Victoria Falls, the World Heritage site, stretches from southern Zambia to Zimbabwe and includes a 7,142-square-mile conservation area. It is originated from the Zambezi River plunging up to 324 feet (99 meters) into basalt gorges.


The World Heritage site of Timbuktu, a center of Islamic learning in Africa, includes 3 mosques and 16 cemeteries and mausoleums. Koranic Sankore University (pictured here) is among Muslim places of study.


New Mexico’s Pueblo de Taos, which consists of stepped dwellings once used for housing, storage and religious ceremonies, reflects the culture heritage of the Pueblo Indians. It was named a World Heritage site in 1992.


The rooftop of Barcelona’s Casa Milà, one of the World Heritage sites, exhibits Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí’s unique design style.


The natural beauty and historic significance helped Amalfi Coast, Italy become a World Heritage in 1997 by UNESCO. Towns along the coast like Positano feature important architectural and cultural sites within their picturesque communities.


Three historic railways including the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (pictured here), Nilgiri Mountain Railway and Kalka Shimla Railway have achieved a World Heritage site to recognize their importance in trade and technological development.


Central Amazon Conservation Complex, the largest protected area of Amazon Basin (6 million hectares), became a World Heritage site in 2000. It is home to the threatened freshwater dolphins.


Machu Picchu, Peru is a remarkable remnant of the Inca Empire. The ancient city built into the surrounding mountainous landscape is best known for archeological sites.


The stretch of coral reef in Australia, known as the Great Barrier Reef, is the most extensive on Earth. It became a World Heritage site in 1981.


Historic District of Old Quebec was recognized as a World Heritage site in 1985 due to the historic architecture, heritage conservation and North America’s oldest preserved ramparts.

World Heritage sites to explore near Bath

If you want to visit a place in the UK that has been described by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, then make sure you choose Bath-based holiday cottages.

The Somerset city has been awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO, meaning it is one of the most culturally significant places in the whole of the UK.

And no wonder, as there are so many amazing things to see and do here, you are sure to end your holiday feeling that Bath very much deserves the accolade bestowed upon it.

The first site you will want to visit is the Roman Baths. The ancient civilisation founded these in 43 AD to use as a spa after discovering the existence of thermal springs in the spot.

Around these, they built an elaborate complex of rooms and spaces featuring hot baths where the Romans would go and relax or socialise. Today, you can see all of this for yourself when you visit and you will find plenty of experts on hand - some dressed in traditional Roman attire - who are happy to answer any questions you have

After the civilisation's decline from power, it is believed that the site fell out of use until it was rediscovered in the 18th century. It was also around this time that Bath began to gain a reputation as a luxury resort.

It was during these years that many of the city's other famous architectural feats came into existence, including the Grand Pump Room and the Royal Crescent - a gorgeous row of Georgian houses circling a green common.

Many of the properties today are private but you can pay a visit to Number One if you long to get a peak inside.

For another great example of the building styles that were popular at the time, head to the Pulteney Bridge - one of the only water crossings in the world to have shops spanning both of its sides.

Another stop on your tour of the city should be Bath Abbey. One of the last gothic churches in England, this imposing structure is built on the site of an old Norman cathedral and you will find it is open for you to explore its inspiring interior.

By the time you return to your self catering cottages, you are sure to agree that Bath is worthy of its World Heritage status.

India Tour And Travel: A Trip Wonderful Land

India, one of the most popular countries of the world and famous for tourism destinations is the most chosen destination of Asia. The land of India lures exotic tourists from all over the globe. Through its hills, rivers, plateaus, plains, beaches, deltas and deserts, resorts, picturesque nature sites, the architectural wealth and many luxurious hotels India draw the attention of tourists from every nook and corner of the world. India tour and travel gives tourists a wonderful chance to experience the splendor of the country in most delightful manner. The tempting attractions of India are the hub of attraction and compel the visitors to get them lost in their marvelous glory. The rich and varied cultural of India keep India tourism at top from other travel destination across the world. The most eye-catching quality of the country is that the prehistoric imprints and modern backdrop exists alongside. The vivacious history of India creates excitement among tourists by showing its attractive monuments.

In the glorious land of India there are numerous places to visit which are conquered by the magnificence of nature, culture and heritage attractions. But some of the most famous ones which tourists should not miss to visit with India tour and travel are as follows:

Rajasthan, the royal state of India is worldly prominent for its rich culture and heritage attractions which were built in former era by erstwhile rulers during the period of grandeur, grief and happiness. A trip to the cities of the state makes the tourists feel and wonderful experience which they can never forget. In this royal state, tourists find many majestic palaces, vast forts, grand Havellis and a number of other magnificent attractions which represent the majesty, beauty and history of Rajasthan. In Jaipur known as the Pink City which is the capital city of Rajasthan, tourists can visit many famous, attention grabbing and finest monuments which are worth of appreciation. The other admirable cities if Rajasthan are Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Shekhwati region, Chittourgarh, Ranakpur, Pushkar, etc which allure the visitors with their imperial charisma, wonderful temples, fairs and festivals and the world-class hospitality provided by the heritage hotels of Rajasthan.

Some of the other highlights of India tour and travel are Kerala the state situated on the southwestern part of India, Himachal Pradesh the state situated in the north of India, Goa- the beach capital of India, Kashmir- the Paradise on Earth, Uttarakhand and many more.

A billion dollar opportunity

The year is 2025. You are on a visit to the Maluti temples, a World Heritage site in Jharkhand. The temple complex and the village adjoining it are a magnificent example of sustainable development. There are no touts or beggars in the area. Tourists get a holistic experience of the temples and can savour the living legacy of the region.

What's more, this is not the only place where such a heritage experience is possible. All across the country, in each state, there are thousands of places where a concurrent model is replicated, providing communities with work and sustaining monuments. Because of the unique combination of tangible and living culture, Indian heritage sites are attracting hordes of international and domestic tourists and are top-of-the-line contributors to the country's foreign exchange and GDP.

Sounds like a utopian dream? Not if a recent report by a global heritage organization is to be believed. According to the report, developing countries like India can tap a $100 billion-a-year opportunity by 2025, if they make a sincere attempt to preserve and responsibly develop their heritage sites. The report estimates that heritage, thus tapped, can even help meet the UN Millennium Development Goal of eliminating poverty by the next decade. This may seem a bit far-fetched, but it does raise a pertinent question: can heritage be the driving force of our economy?

"It would seem so," says Jeff Morgan of the Global Heritage Fund, that has published the report. Morgan points out that an estimated one-third of all international travel is cultural heritage-related. "Tourism is now increasingly viewed as a core economic growth strategy for many countries, and should be embraced as a core component of international development. Countries' investment in the protection of their heritage sites is highly correlated with economic growth and improved standards of living."

However, it may not be as simple as that, more so for a country like India where conservation remains a huge challenge, especially as monuments abound in every nook and corner. Add to that a lack of conservation ethos and bureaucratic apathy and the problem gets compounded. "Ours is a country where 'culture' and 'heritage' are words that are often over-used, but when it comes to implementation, little gets done," laments O P Jain, founder of the Delhi-based Sanskriti Foundation.

Jain points out that problems often arise because of lack of consistency. "Even if a heritage site has been successful, it is not used as a model for similar sites elsewhere. Instead, decisions are taken arbitrarily, without involving experts. In the process, a lot of money is wasted. For instance, there are many structures in Delhi for which grand plans were made, but still, people are openly defecating there."

Even in popular heritage sites which see a lot of tourist traffic, the delicate balance between footfalls and conservation has been difficult to achieve. "It's a Catch-22 situation," admits an official with the Archaeological Survey of India. "Places like the Taj Mahal or the historic civic centre of Shimla, which receive a huge tourist inflow, have to be constantly safeguarded against degradation. Increased tourist flow has put pressure on many fragile sites."

Then, there is the question of political will. Jain says that culture is often considered a soft subject and that shows in the bundling of the portfolio with other ministries like youth or sports affairs. "The government's schemes are often well-intentioned, but there is rarely any follow-through. For instance, under the public-private partnership, the adopt-a-monument project was a good idea for corporates to do their bit for conservation, but it fell through, because of red tape."

Considering a scenario like this, is correlating heritage and tourism with rapid economic growth really a practical proposition in India? There are many who believe that hinging the nation's future economy on tourism is, in itself, a fragile notion for development. Heritage consultant Amita Baig points out that tourism is essentially a service industry that cannot possibly be sustained unless the basics in education and health are achieved. "Protection of heritage can only be achieved with the local community. A good example is the Taj Mahal, India's most iconic site, which is situated in Agra, one of the most dismal destinations in the world. Because of the closure of industry to ensure the Taj Mahal is protected, the city economy is in decline, and its people have paid a very high price," she says.

Inclusive development, therefore, is the key. Morgan agrees that "empowering local communities, focusing expert aid and funding on the most endangered sites can help build a strong infrastructure and ensure long-term stewardship of heritage sites, thereby boosting the economy."

Education has an important role to play in sensitizing people. Baig says that the valorization of our heritage must be a part of core curriculum. "Things can be much easier, once there is an educated populace who respect their heritage as a legacy of their forefathers."Another idea is to learn from success stories. Jain points at the success of heritage palaces in Rajasthan, most of whom have reinvented themselves as hotels."These places are a microcosm of what heritage tourism in India stands for - a complete value-added experience."

In essence, cultural heritage should remain infused with life and energy or else it ceases to be relevant. Baig concurs that this is especially true in India where we still have a colonial mindset in how we manage our sites. "The western notion of heritage preservation is based on the fact that once it is catalogued and archived, its future is secure. But we also need to take into account the wisdom that made it possible. We require to think beyond the magnificence of stone to make creative use of our sites. If we can moderate this sensibly, then there will be serious economic base for the future of our heritage."

NZ: Northland revels in international tourism awards

NORTHLAND

New Zealand’s Northland region is enjoying the international tourism spotlight having won a series of significant awards for the best coastline, dive spot and luxury lodges in the world.

The Tutukaka Coast north-east of Whangarei has been named one of the top three coastlines in the world, by the prestigious National Geographic Traveler magazine.

And 23 miles off the same coast, the world-famous Poor Knights Islands marine reserve has been declared one of the world's top 10 places to see nature at its finest.

Further north in the Bay of Islands, Eagles Nest, on Tapeka Point near Russell, has been rated the world's top luxury coastal hotel and The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, Matauri Bay, has been awarded ‘best resort in the Australia and Pacific region’ by Condé Nast travellers.

Poor Knights Marine Reserve
The accolade for the Poor Knights came after a visit by Emmy-award-winning director and producer of wildlife documentaries Nick Stringer, who compiled his top 10 list for England's Guardian newspaper.

He rated the Poor Knights as the ninth best place in the world to see nature, and said the journey to the historic islands was well worth making.

Stringer, who spent several days in the Bay of Islands region, said it was a memorable visit that included seeing killer whales, dolphins and the Tolkien-esque landscape, but was mostly focused on diving at the Poor Knights.

"Its volcanic origins have created precipitous cliffs, spectacular drop offs, caves, arches and tunnels, while the converging water currents have resulted in a unique biodiversity," Stringer said.

"Subtropical and temperate marine life coexist with more than 125 species of fish, soft corals, vibrant anemones, ecklonia kelp forests and mating sting rays, to name a few."

He said it was not hard to see why French undersea explorer Jacques Cousteau rated it as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world.

Tutukaka Coast
Tutukaka - a natural harbour on the subtropical north-eastern coast of the North Island - is the gateway to the Poor Knights Islands.

National Geographic Traveler put the Tutukaka Coast in the top three coastal regions in the world - placing it second equal with the Pembrokeshire coast in Wales.

The magazine described the region as "offering a mix of land and water-based ecotourism opportunities with long stretches of sandy beaches alternating with intimate bays, steep cliffs, and deeply cut natural harbours".

Tutukaka Marina is the base port for dive companies and other tourist operators who offer game fishing, recreational diving, line fishing and sightseeing trips.

The National Geographic panelists commented on the coast's "high aesthetic appeal - virtually all natural". They also noted that limited tourism development protected Tutukaka’s natural appeal.

"This is mainly a divers’ and bush walkers’ destination, and should stay that way."

The region has a rich Māori history and early Māori pa / fortified villages should also be well protected, according to National Geographic.

Eagles Nest luxury retreat
The Northland retreat Eagles Nest - billed as "somewhere between seven stars and heaven" - has been named the world's top luxury coastal hotel.

Set within a 30ha estate near Russell in the Bay of Islands, the luxury hideaway scooped the title at the 2010 World Luxury Hotel Awards in Thailand.

The awards are considered the pinnacle of achievement for luxury hotels worldwide.

Owners Daniel and Sandra Biskind said the recognition reinforced the New Zealand luxury sector as being among the best in the world.

"We feel profoundly honoured by this global award - especially considering that Eagles Nest is a relatively young and uniquely different property."

Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart stayed at Eagles Nest early this year, and Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher reportedly spent time there last year. The property was also the setting for part of season 13 of US reality TV show ‘The Bachelor’.

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs
Condé Nast Traveler readers have chosen The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, in Northland’s Matauri Bay, as the No. 1 lodge / resort in Australia and the Pacific in their 2010 survey.

Nearly 26,000 readers voted, ranking hotels on activities and facilities, food and dining, location, overall design, rooms and service.

Kauri Cliffs ranked No. 3 on the ‘Top 100 Hotels Overall’ list, scoring 98.4.

Owned and developed by New York’s Robertson family, Kauri Cliffs is the sister property to The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Hawke's Bay in the North Island, and recently opened Matakauri Lodge, at Queenstown in the South Island.

All are members of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux collection, and have won a number of international awards.

Background: Poor Knights Islands

A unique combination of geographical and natural elements - warm currents sweeping south from the Coral Sea, a micro climate and thousands of years of separation from the mainland - has helped to create the unique biodiversity found on and around the Poor Knights Islands.

The marine reserve stretches nearly a kilometre out from the islands, and the land rising from the water is designated a nature reserve.

The 11-million-year-old islands are awaiting World Heritage status and claim to have the world’s largest sea cave. Volcanic origins provide a myriad of spectacular drop offs, walls, caves, arches and tunnels - remnants of the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’ eruptions.

Separation from the mainland, has allowed species to evolve differently - resulting in larger specimens, and a variety of unique flora and fauna not seen elsewhere in New Zealand. More than 1,000 tuatara specimens - a reptile referred to as the world’s only surviving dinosaur - live in the Poor Knights.

Surprisingly, given the apparently inhospitable nature of the craggy islands which have no fresh water source and are not easy to land on, the islands also have a fascinating human history.

Up until the early 19th century, Māori inhabited the Poor Knights - up to 400 people at a time lived in fortified pa sites and worked in the terraced gardens. Stone walls are still intact and visible on the islands today.

Both main islands were inhabited, but each by a different hapu / family tribal group. Since an invasion around 1820 the Poor Knights have been strictly tapu / sacred, and have been uninhabited ever since.

Visit the Acclaimed Tourist Attractions of India with Golden Triangle Tour

India is a country of unlimited wonders and undeniable beauty. It has been rightly said that every tourist in the world must visit India at least once. The country is a rich mishmash of cultures, religions, ethnicities, colors, languages, cuisines and art forms. From the cold winds and sparkling natural beauty of Kashmir to the temperate climate and azure waters of Kanyakumari, India is diverse and varied in every single way.

North India is a popular tourist destination for people from all around the globe. North India offers a chance to explore the rich cultural history and the evolution of the Indian subcontinent by offering a glimpse into the past- you can study Mughal art and architecture whilst you stroll through the tombs and monuments or you can experience the Colonial influence in the columns and British-inspired buildings of the capital. Three cities that act as the crux of North India are Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. The best way to explore these cities is with the Golden Triangle Tour. The tour takes you through Delhi, Agra and Jaipur- the three glittering gems of North India.

In Delhi you can see the rich fusion between the Mughal influence, the Colonial influence and the modernity of the current times. Relive the era of the Mughal dynasty as you take in the majestic monuments like Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar and Red Fort. Appreciate the mark of the colonial rulers when you explore Connaught Place and Central Delhi with their telltale British architectural styles. While the malls of South Delhi give you a glimpse of Delhi’s modern, high society life-style with all the luxury goods, international brands and fine dining experiences you could ever imagine, the local markets, Cottage Emporium and Dilli Haat will give you a taste of the indigenous bazaar culture of India.

The next stop of the Golden Triangle Tour is Agra. Agra is home to the Taj Mahal- the epitome of eternal love. Built in white marble, the Taj Mahal is one of the Wonders of the World. Built by the emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal was an ode to his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is hailed the world over as an icon of undying passion and devotion. You can also visit Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort- two stunning World Heritage Sites.

The last, but not the least, in the Golden Triangle Tour is the Pink City- Jaipur. The city derives this moniker from its pink-washed monuments. The splendor of the Hawa Mahal, the Jantar Mantar and Amber Fort will captivate you. To flavor the real heritage of India walk the streets of Jaipur which are adorned with festive lights, bazaars, people in ethnic multi-colored costumes, camels and elephants. Jaipur is known for its vibrant streets, warm sunny climate and cheerful people. Explore the vibrant hues and buzzing atmosphere of Rajasthan when you visit Jaipur.

Take the Golden Triangle Tour to visit the cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and discover the multifaceted wonders of India.

Monuments - Sands and Tiger Tours in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a wonderful tourist place to explore in India. It is the largest state of India and attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world with its numerous attractions. Drenched into royal grandeur and rich history, this imperial and regal state is globally noted for its rich culture, tradition, history, heritage, monuments and lots of many other attractions. Magnificent monuments, rippling sand dunes and exotic wildlife sanctuaries & national parks are featured attractions of Rajasthan tourism.

Monuments – Monuments are key attractions for tourism in royal and imperial Rajasthan showing rich cultural heritage of the state. Monuments here are architecturally beautiful and provide tourists a delight that is unforgettable. Almost all cities and towns in the state are dotted with some monuments.

Rajasthan monuments feature forts, palaces, temples, museums, etc. Mehrangarh Fort, Golden Fort, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Chittorgarh Fort, Lake Palace, Junagarh Fort, Albert Hall Museum, Ajmer Dargah, Pushkar Lord Brahma Temple, Dilwara Jain Temple, Ranakpur Jain Temple, etc are some of famous monuments in this state you will love to visit and explore. Monuments have been key attractions of almost all Rajasthan Tour Packages.

Wildlife Sanctuaries – Rajasthan is also noted for wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. There are several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the state which attract travelers and wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. Ranthambhore Tiger National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Mount Abu Sanctuary, Desert National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, etc popular destinations for wildlife tourism in the state.
Ranthambhore National Park and Sariska Tiger Reserve are most visited destinations noted for good population of tigers. Ranthambhore can be visited from Sawai Madhopur and one can visit Sariska by making a tour to Alwar.

Sand Dunes – A big part of Rajasthan is dominated by the Great Indian Desert – Thar Desert. Many tourists come to state to explore desert tourism and traditional villages located around the desert. Golden rippling sands are very popular among tourists. Travelers can enjoy best of golden sand tour of Thar Desert by exciting camel safari rides. Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Barmer, Bikaner, etc are important cities and tourist places from where you can start for desert tour.

There are many other attractions in the state, you can visit and explore on your Rajasthan trip. So plan a trip to Rajasthan and have unforgettable experience by exploring its major tourist places and attractions.