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Whether they be manmade or natural, sacred sites around the world have a way of captivating the human spirit. Well-known sacred sites like Uluru, Hagia Sophia, and Angkor Wat attract scores of visitors each year. Sacred sites are alluring whether people are looking for faith or inspiration, find themselves on a path of self-enlightenment, or are simply curious. Sacred sites around the world are plentiful and diverse, offering insight into the world’s cultures and religions. Whatever your faith, sacred sites are undeniably intriguing. Let us explore some of the lesser-known sacred sites that warrant a visit during your lifetime. batu-caves

Batu Caves: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Located to the north of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Cave system incorporates a Hindu shrine honouring Lord Murugan. While the temple is around 100 years old, the limestone formations of the caves are said to be around 400 million years old. The caves offer stunning views, monkeys, bats, and a good deal of stairs to climb. Cathedral Cave is the largest and most visited cave, offering a 100-metre-high ceiling where you can witness Hindu rituals and artefacts. shwedagon-pagoda

 

Spanish Synagogue: Prague, Czech Republic

The Spanish Synagogue is a 19th-century Jewish house of prayer that rests on the site of the oldest Prague Jewish house of prayer known as "Old School". Although modest on the outside, the synagogue’s interior is breathtakingly beautiful and offers insight into the history of Prague’s Jewish Quarter. A visit will provide you with the history of both the synagogue and the Jewish people of Prague. meteora

Meteora: Thessaly, Greece

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Meteora consists of six Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched precariously upon natural rock monoliths. The area, which is home to around 60 monks and nuns, was featured in the popular T.V. series Game of Thrones. Although the monasteries were built in the 14th century, human habitation dates back some 50,000 years. Explore artefacts, paintings, and incredible views during your visit to Meteora, which translates as “suspended in the air”. 

 wudang-mountains

Wudang Mountains: Hubei, China

Located in a small mountain range in China lies a group of Taoist temples and monasteries. It is recognized as one of the most famous Taoist holy sites. The area offers breathtaking scenery as well as several Wudang Kung Fu and Tai Chi training halls. There are numerous stunning temples and palaces to experience, but note that photography within the buildings is prohibited. devils-tower

Devil's Tower: Wyoming, U.S.A.

Devil's Tower is a nearly 400-meter natural monolithic rock structure rising from the surrounding landscape. America’s first National Monument, Devil's Tower, is sacred to many Native American Indian Tribes. The rock contains dramatic and impressive vertical grooves, which makes it popular with rock climbers. Legend has it the vertical grooves were made by the claws of bears that chased and tried to reach a group of girls who made their way to the safety of the Towers top. The girls would then be transformed into the constellation known as Pleiades. travel-advice

Important Advice When Visiting Sacred Sites

  • Respect local customs when it comes to your attire and behaviour. You should research how to dress in inappropriate clothing to restrict your entry.
  • Always ask permission before taking photos or videos
  • Refrain from altering or removing any items from sacred sites
  • Learn and have respect for the differing belief systems you will be visiting
  • Sacred sites are located in regions or landscapes you are unaccustomed to
  • Consider a travel insurance policy to protect you from unforeseen events such as natural disasters, overseas medical expenses, and lost/stolen belongings.