World Heritage Sites in Southeast Asia
As in other world regions, the World Heritage sites in Southeast Asia are varied, with everything from ancient monuments of historical and artistic value to nature reserves that are home to endangered species featuring on UNESCO’s list of protected sites.
Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, an ancient temple complex built in the 12th century, gets the most attention in the region, but the sleepy town of Luang Prabang in Laos is a close rival. For natural wonders, take in Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts on a kayak.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Largely constructed in the 12th century, this vast temple complex is the most visited site in Cambodia. Demonstrating a fascinating mix between Buddhist, Vishnu and Hindu beliefs, the sculpture around the complex is impressive.
Ayutthaya, Thailand: The remains of the former capital of Thailand during the Ayutthaya period in the form of well-preserved Buddhist temples can still be seen and toured today.
Sukhothai, Thailand: Before the rise of Ayutthaya, Sukhothai was the ruling kingdom in Thailand, and today the remains of the ancient Sukhothai capital stand as evidence of Thailand’s long held cultural traditions.
Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia: This World Heritage site is home to the region’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu, a popular climb for trekkers of all abilities. Spanning four climate zones, the park offers varied landscapes and wildlife.
Gunung Mulu National Park, Indonesia: Best known for the Sarawak Chamber, the world’s largest naturally enclosed space, and its hundreds of caves and grottoes, Gunung Mulu is hard to reach, but well worth the effort.
Ha Long bay, Vietnam: The outstanding beauty of Ha Long bay is best appreciated from a kayak or boat, with group tours taking visitors on overnight excursions through the site’s jagged karsts.
Luang Prabang, Laos: The sleepy town of Luang Prabang is no longer as sleepy as it used to be, with visitors coming from far and wide to enjoy the town’s ancient Buddhist temples and cultural performances.
Rice Terraces of the Cordilleras, Philippines: The unforgettable landscape of the Cordilleras, marked by hundreds of tiered rice terraces, has been maintained by local Ifugao farmers for up to 6,000 years.
Ujung Kulon National Park, Indonesia: This volcanic part of Indonesia, at the western tip of Java, is home to rare wildlife and dense lowland rainforest. The Indian Ocean coastline here is beautiful, as are the endangered Javan rhinoceros that make their home here.
Kerinci Seblat National Park, Indonesia: Visitors to Kerinci Seblat can take a dip in the park’s hot springs or waterfalls between wildlife-spotting for Sumatran rhinoceros and rafting adventures.
Lorentz National Park, Indonesia: The alpine areas and diverse ecosystems of the biggest national park in Southeast Asia are today protected as a World Heritage site.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Vietnam: The hundreds of caves at Phong Nha-Ke Bang are the park’s highlight, but its grottos and karsts are of interest too. Selected caves, some of which feature amazing stalactites and stalagmites, are open to the public.
Kinabalu World Heritage site – Borneo, Malaysia: Kinabalu not only attracts climbers with its mighty 4,000m-plus high peak, but it also appeals to gardeners with its rare orchids, ancient oak trees and diverse rhododendrons.
Hoi An, Vietnam: Commonly labeled as a ‘living museum’, the immaculately preserved coastal town of Hoi An charms all who visit with its beautiful temples, quaint streets and pretty bridge.
Maliau Basin – Borneo, Malaysia: The Maliau Basin’s remote location makes it one of Malaysia’s least visited parks, but those who make the journey here are rewarded with rare orchids, untouched rainforest and lofty cliffs.
Vat Phou, Laos: Situated along the Mekong River, this remarkable Khmer temple in southern Laos dates to 600 AD. Shestupura, the region’s oldest settlement, can also be visited from Vat Phou.
Vigan, Philippines: The Spanish colonial town of Vigan is a Philippine highlight featuring well-kept buildings dating to the days of Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo. Chinese and Filipino architectural influences are also in evidence.
Tubbataha Reef Marine Park, Philippines: You don’t need to be a marine biologist to enjoy the wonders of Tubbataha Reef Marine Park, with this protected site home to pilot whales, sharks, turtles and manta rays.
Pulau Langkawi, Malaysia: The wildlife haven of Langkawi is best known for its beach resorts, but beyond luxurious hotels are karsts, deep forests and abundant wildlife.