subject: Explore The Spectacular World Heritage Sites Located In Asia [print this page] A vacation that includes rest, relaxation, fun and educational experience can certainly be said to have it all. The United Nations through the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has compiled a list of World Heritage Sites highlighting natural and cultural history related to mankind. Visit your online express U S passport service now so you will not be inhibited from visiting one or many of these fantastic sites.
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Asia is home to many World Heritage Sites which isn't surprising. With Countries like China, Japan and India as well as other Middle Eastern countries, an abundant number of interesting, historical places can be visited. Let's highlight a few of them here.
One of these sites is the Dazu Rock Carvings in China. This collection of sites features 50,000 larger than life statues, with over 100,000 Chinese characters decorating the cliff faces as well. Originally started in 650 AD, these huge monuments are definitely worth seeing for yourself.
Also in China is the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor in Xi'an. Discovered in 1974 by some men digging a well, this site is famous for its army of terracotta warriors. This site is easily one of the most spectacular tombs on Earth. Over 800 stone statues, each life size and possessing unique facial features. Among these soldiers are horses, chariots, musicians, acrobats, strongmen, and officials, and this is only one of the pits. It's estimated that more pits exist, with a total number of soldiers around 8,000.
Lake Baikal in Russia is the largest freshwater lake in the world, and one of the most biodiverse as well. 1,085 species of plants and 1,550 species of animals make their home in Lake Baikal, and a full 80% of these species can only be found at this lake. One of these animals is the adorable Baikal Seal.
Sri Lanka is home to an ancient stone fortress called Sigiriya. This gigantic fortress is surrounded by moats, gardens and deteriorated ancient structures. Unusual stone formations are found around this fortress many of which are believed to have been used by our ancient ancestors perhaps five thousand years ago. The opportunity to view ancient frescoes and terraced gardens provides an opportunity to imagine what life was like for some of our earliest ancestors.
Socotra in the Indian Ocean is a chain of four islands. Because they have been cut off from the mainland for so long, Socotra has developed its own very unique set of natural inhabitants. In fact, a full third of its 800 species of flora can't be found anywhere else on the planet. It's this fact that has given it the status as the most alien looking place on Earth, certifiable by the warped looking dragon's blood tree.