The most miraculous places on our planet that will enchant you
Breathtaking places that everyone would like to see in person. Everybody admires them. They are full of mystery, rich history and energy. They offer incredible richness and experiences that you will absorb long after you have visited them. Hop aboard our plane and come take a short trip with us.
Living Bridges (India)
Northeast India is home to the rainiest place in the world. A few centuries ago, the local inhabitants (Khasis) started building paths between their villages. But now and then they had to cross the rivers, which are quite waterlogged due to frequent rains.
So they urgently needed bridges, so they thought they could weave the aerial roots of the rubber tree into a bridge-like structure.
But it's not easy. The young roots of the fig tree are channeled where they need to be, using troughs hollowed out from betel trunks. However, the roots need 15-20 years to become strong enough to support a human. The more they grow, the more load they can bear. The oldest living bridges in the area are estimated to be 500-600 years old. They can carry up to 50 people or a horse and cart.
Phraya Nakhon Cave (Thailand)
If you enter Phraya Nakhon Cave in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park (about 250 km south of Bangkok), you will witness one of the few caves located in the limestone cliffs above the Gulf of Thailand, which is itself an amazing place to explore.
The path here leads up steep stone steps, winding through a pine forest. If you enter the main part of the cave, you don't have to worry about 100% darkness. The ceiling of the main chamber collapsed in ancient times and the sunlight penetrates here like a theatrical spotlight. In the middle stands the Kuha Karuhas pavilion, surrounded by a handful of trees. It is a sight you will never forget.
The pavilion was built in the late 19th century for the Thai king Rama V. Although he never saw it, several other Thai kings have visited here since. The sight of the cave bathed in sunlight and glittering stalactites is proof that no matter what we try to build, nature always has the last word.
Danakil Gorge (Ethiopia)
The gorge is part of the Afar Basin, a geomorphological phenomenon formed by the presence of three tectonic plates. It is thus one of the hottest but also one of the most dangerous places on earth.
At first glance, this area looks like it's from another planet. There are many hot lakes that are green or yellow in colour and form sulphur mounds.
There are countless excursions in the area, which include visits to active volcanoes, but most importantly, you will enjoy a view you will never forget. Among other things, the site is a haven for many scientists who are exploring the area to understand the origins of life on other planets. All the microorganisms that live here are certainly capable of living in extreme conditions.
Tsingy de Bemaraha (Madagascar)
This karst landscape lies in the west of the island of Madagascar and is divided into a nature reserve and a national park. Its origins date back to the Jurassic period, when erosion created a huge labyrinth of very sharp rocks, sometimes referred to as the "forest of knives".
One of the best ways to explore this area is by canoeing down the red-orange Manambolo River, during which you may even catch a glimpse of the majestic Madagascar eagle. However, you must plan your visit carefully. The area is only accessible during the dry season.
In the past, Madagascar's original inhabitants, the Vazimba, found refuge here. Later, in 1990, this unique natural site became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ningaloo Coast (Australia)
This site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a vast area of 7 050 square kilometres which, in addition to land and water, includes the underwater world of the Indian Ocean.
Its centrepiece is the Ningaloo coral reef, which measures approximately 250 km in length. In addition to the beautiful plants, divers and snorkelers will enjoy the rich underwater life in the form of turtles, manta rays, dolphins, whales and even whale sharks.
If you don't want to get wet and would rather enjoy the beauty of the environment while you're dry, hop aboard one of the glass-bottomed boats and you might just witness whales jumping over the side of the sea.
