The world is a fascinating place, full of stunning landscapes and mysteries of evolution that defy explanation. Waterfalls, canyons, and reefs we can only dream about have been bestowed on us.
Several of them have been transformed into must-visit tourist destinations. Some may call them "bucket list locations," but what about those that haven't yet been brought into the spotlight? This list features unique locations you may need to become more familiar with.
Germany, Neuschwanstein Castle
This stunning castle was built in the eighteenth century and overlooks the town of Hohenschwangau, located not far from Füssen in southwestern Bavaria. Although it was built as a private retreat for King Ludwig II, it was opened to the public following his death in 1886. Some of you may recognize this castle as the primary design inspiration for
Mexico's Massive Crystal Cave
One of the most incredible natural structures ever found is located in Chihuahua, Mexico, 300 meters below ground. Selenite crystals 11 meters long and 4 meters broad were discovered in these caves. Cavern water was heated to a scorching 50 °C, where the crystals could form, thanks to subsurface magma deposits some 500,000 years ago.
Images are, unfortunately, the closest most people will come to experiencing these intriguing structures in person. Both for preservation purposes and because of the cave's tremendous hazard, they have been closed to the public since their discovery in 2000.
Sharp rocks, boiling water, and intense heat make it such that anyone who enters runs the danger of passing out after only a few minutes. This is a stunning location, but it's best appreciated from a distance.
Bolvar, Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni
Bolivia's southwest is home to the world's most extensive salt flats, which may be found in the departments of Potos and Oruro. This beautiful area in southwest Bolivia comprises around 12,000 square kilometers, and the lake still there is all that is left of an ancient salt lake.
Tourists have been drawn to the area for a long time because of the magnificent reflection of the flats against the blue sky. This is an absolute must-do if you are hiking through South America.
Burning Crater of Turkmenistan
Although it may not sound like the most appealing vacation spot, "The Door to Hell," a 230-foot-wide and 66-foot-deep fire pit in the heart of the Karakum Desert that has been blazing for the past 40 years, is an experience few people ever forget.
A Soviet outpost was established there when gas drilling proved successful in the region. While the discovery of the gas riches was first met with celebration, the ground underneath the camp eventually gave way and was swallowed by a massive crater.
Somehow, no lives were lost in the catastrophe, but the enormous volume of methane gas released from the location presented a severe environmental problem. It was decided to "burn out" the gas by lighting it on fire, with the expectation that the fire would go out after a few weeks.
Climbing Roraima in Venezuela
South America's Tepui Plateau has the Pakaraima mountain range, the tallest peak of which is Mount Roraima. On both sides of the plateau, which borders Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, are sheer cliffs that rise to an impressive 1,300 feet.
Most climbers spend two days just getting to the foot of the mountain and then another day ascending the "La Rampa," a natural stairway. This is not a climb to be taken lightly. Take one of the several trips offered to visitors to go to the peak.
India's Chand Baori Well
Chand Baori, one of the world's oldest and most significant step wells, is a geometrical marvel. It was constructed by King Chanda between the eighth and ninth centuries and served as the area's primary water supply for hundreds of years before the advent of more modern water infrastructure.
Although it is no longer in service, this site is still worth visiting due to the impressive accuracy and size of the building, which dates back over a thousand years.
There are stairs on three sides of the well, and on the fourth, there is a series of pavilions erected, one on top of the other, a royal house for the King and Queen and a stage for performing arts.
Siberian Island of Urup
This deserted volcanic island in the Pacific Ocean is a sight to see. The natural stone spire and the other formations in the vicinity may be seen up close on boat tours. And if you want to see more nature, the neighboring island has fantastic waterfalls and fauna.
The Ainu people, who once lived on these islands, had the belief that great treasures lay buried under the surface. Although this is debatable, it is nonetheless a lovely site to visit.
