10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia, From Temples to Lizards Island

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A recent study from 'Climate X' has revealed that numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites are at risk of extinction. The findings suggest that climate change, including the increased likelihood of flooding, drought, and extreme heat, is the primary factor contributing to this risk.

Daily Mail reported, there are three Indonesian World Heritage sites at high-risk to be wiped out in 2050: the Subak System, Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto, and Komodo National Park.

When it comes to world heritage, there are still other historical sites that will leave you in awe. So, let’s explore some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia.

List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia

Tempo has rounded up some of UNESCO World's Heritage Sites in Asia, citing from the official website of UNESCO’s World Heritage Convention. Read on to find out more.

1. Great Wall of China (China)

The Great Wall of China is perhaps the most iconic symbol of China's rich history. Stretching over 20,000 km, it was originally built as the national symbol for safeguarding the security of the country and its people. Today, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of ancient Chinese civilization.

2. Taj Mahal (India)

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and a symbol of love. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is famous for its stunning white marble structure and has been standing since its completion in 1648.

3. Angkor Archaeological Park (Cambodia)

If you’re traveling to Cambodia, you don’t want to miss the Angkor Archaeological Park. It is one of the most important archaelogical sites of Southeast Asia (SEA) located in Siem Reap, northern part of Cambodia.

According to UNESCO, the Angkor complex contains remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, as well as temples, including Temple of Angkor Wat and the Bayon Temple.

4. Historic City of Ayutthaya (Thailand)

Another world heritage site that you can find in Asia is the historic city of Ayutthaya in Thailand. Founded in 1350, the city was the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom and was once the center of global diplomacy and commerce.

However, the Burmese destroyed the whole city in the 18th century. Now, Ayutthaya is only an archaelogical ruin, in which tall prang (a tall tower like spire seen especially in Khmer temples, they are usually richly carved) and Buddhist monasteries remain.

5. Ha Long Bay (Vietnam)

UNESCO included Ha Long Bay as one of the natural world heritage sites. Located in northeastern Vietnam, specifically within Quang Ninh Province and Hai Phong City, it consists of thousands of islands and islets covering an area of more than 65,000 ha. Visitors can explore the islands by boat, enjoying the picturesque limestone islands of islets.

6. Borobudur Temple Compounds (Indonesia)

Located in Central Java, Borobudur is one of the greatest Buddhist monuments in the world. This massive structure, built in the 8th century, stands at an area of 2,520 m2 with 72 openwork stupas around its circular platforms. It was re-discovered in the 19th century and was able to undergo restoration with the help of UNESCO in the 1970s.

7. Komodo National Park (Indonesia)

Besides the Borobudur Temple Compounds, Komodo National Park is another UNESCO world heritage site you can find in Indonesia. As the name suggests, the island, located between the Islands of Sumbawa and Flores, is the home for approximately 5,700 giant lizards, namely the komodos. It is endemic to the island and becomes a representation of a population of large lizards once living across Indonesia and Australia.

8. Kathmandu Valley (Nepal)

Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal is home to seven groups of monuments and buildings that display the full range of historic and artistic achievements. These include Durbar Squares, stupas, and temples that highlight the region’s rich Newar culture.

9. Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area (China)

The Horyu-ji area of Japan’s Nara Prefecture has around 48 Budhhist monuments, and are listed as world heritage. Made out of wood, some monuments appear to come from the late 7th or early 8th century, making them some of the oldest surviving wooden architectures in the globe.

10. Petra (Jordan)

Known as the "Rose City" due to the color of the stone from which it is carved, Petra of Jordan was known for its marvelous rock-cut architecture. No one knows when exactly Petra was built, but it became the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom from the 1st century BC. according to the official site visitpetra.jo. Later, in 1985, Petra was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

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