39 Famous Landmarks in Asia You Must Visit

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the most famous landmarks in Asia up close? Maybe you’re planning a trip, building a bucket list, or just want to see what makes Asia so special.

This blog is your guide to some of the most amazing sights across the continent, from ancient temples and royal palaces to soaring towers and natural wonders.

You’ll find must-visit places, each with a short story about what makes them unique and the best time to go.

These picks are not random; they’ll save you time, spark new ideas, and make your travel plans even better.

Which of these famous landmarks will capture your imagination first? Let’s find out.

Why These Landmarks Matter

Landmarks aren’t just beautiful places to visit. They are living pieces of history, culture, and human achievement.

Each site on this list tells a powerful story. They show the dreams, beliefs, and skills of the people who built them.

These places also inspire travelers, artists, and dreamers around the world. They remind us that hard work, imagination, and beauty leave a mark that lasts forever.

When you visit these landmarks, you are not just sightseeing. You are connecting with the past, feeling the present, and becoming part of a story that will continue into the future.

Famous Landmarks in Asia You Should Visit

These landmarks below are the places where one must visit in a lifetime to see the beautiful structure along with the eminence.

1. Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble masterpiece is known for its symmetry, detailed carvings, and beautiful gardens. It is often called a symbol of eternal love.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for walking around.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset, except on Fridays when it is closed for prayer. Early morning visits offer fewer crowds and softer light for photography.

2. Hawa Mahal, India

Hawa Mahal, or the “Palace of Winds,” is a unique five-story building in Jaipur made of pink and red sandstone. Built in 1799, it has 953 small windows, allowing royal women to watch street festivals without being seen. Its honeycomb design also creates a natural cooling effect inside the palace.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between October and March when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Morning visits offer softer light, perfect for photos of its colorful facade.

3. Golden Temple, India

The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is the holiest site in Sikhism. Located in Amritsar, it is famous for its stunning gold-plated structure surrounded by a sacred pool. The temple welcomes people of all religions and offers free meals to thousands of visitors each day through its community kitchen.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Visiting Hours: Open 24 hours a day, but early mornings or late evenings offer a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful reflections of the temple in the water.

4. Sigiriya Lion Rock, Sri Lanka

Sigiriya Lion Rock is an ancient rock fortress located in central Sri Lanka. Rising about 660 feet above the surrounding jungle, it was once the site of a royal palace. The fortress features colorful frescoes, massive lion-shaped gateways, and beautiful water gardens, making it one of the country’s most iconic landmarks.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season from January to March to avoid rain and enjoy clearer views.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Early morning visits are best to beat the heat and crowds.

5. Nine Arch Bridge, Sri Lanka

The Nine Arch Bridge, located in Ella, is a stunning example of colonial-era engineering. Built entirely out of stone and brick without any steel, the bridge has nine beautiful arches and is surrounded by lush tea plantations. Watching a train pass over the bridge is a favorite experience for many visitors.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from January to March during the dry season, when the landscape is green and the weather is pleasant.

Visiting Hours: Open all day, but early mornings offer the best chance to see misty views and catch a train crossing the bridge.

6. Bouddhanath Stupa, Nepal

Bouddhanath Stupa, located in Kathmandu, is one of the largest and most important Buddhist stupas in the world. Its massive white dome, topped with a gilded tower and the all-seeing eyes of Buddha, is a powerful symbol of peace. Prayer flags and spinning prayer wheels create a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere around the site.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between October and May when the skies are clear and the weather is mild.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from around 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to experience local rituals and fewer crowds.

7. Mount Everest, Nepal

Mount Everest, standing at 29,032 feet, is the highest mountain on Earth. Located in the Himalayas on the border between Nepal and China, it attracts climbers and trekkers from all over the world. Even if you don’t plan to climb it, scenic treks to nearby viewpoints like Kala Patthar offer stunning views of this giant peak.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (late September to November) seasons when skies are clearer.

Visiting Hours: Open year-round for trekking and tours, but weather conditions heavily affect access. Mornings generally offer the clearest views.

8. Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan

Tiger’s Nest, or Paro Taktsang, is a sacred Buddhist monastery perched on a cliffside about 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley. According to legend, a holy man flew to this spot on the back of a tiger to meditate. The steep hike to reach the monastery rewards visitors with stunning views and a deep sense of peace.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between October and December for clear skies and comfortable hiking conditions.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Morning hikes are best to avoid afternoon clouds and larger crowds.

9. Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

Cox’s Bazar is home to the world’s longest natural sea beach, stretching over 75 miles along the southeastern coast of Bangladesh. With its golden sands, rolling waves, and rows of palm trees, it’s a perfect spot for relaxing, beach sports, and sunset watching. The area also has vibrant local markets and fresh seafood.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is dry, sunny, and comfortable.

Visiting Hours: Open all day, but mornings and late afternoons are ideal for pleasant temperatures and beautiful lighting for photos.

10. Badshahi Mosque, Pakistan

The Badshahi Mosque, located in Lahore, is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. Built in 1673 by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, it features red sandstone walls, grand white marble domes, and an enormous courtyard that can hold thousands of worshippers. It is a symbol of Mughal architecture and history.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between October and March when the weather is cooler and ideal for exploring.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds.

11. Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan is an ancient city filled with over 2,000 temples and pagodas spread across a vast plain. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries, the temples vary in size and design, creating a magical landscape, especially at sunrise and sunset. Hot air balloon rides offer breathtaking views over this historic site.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to February during the dry season, when skies are clear and temperatures are cooler.

Visiting Hours: Open all day, but sunrise and sunset are the best times for beautiful light and cooler weather.

12. Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar

Shwedagon Pagoda, located in Yangon, is the most sacred Buddhist site in Myanmar. Covered in gold plates and topped with thousands of diamonds and other gems, it stands about 326 feet tall. The pagoda is believed to house relics of four Buddhas and shines beautifully, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between November and February when the weather is dry and temperatures are cooler.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Early mornings and evenings are perfect for peaceful visits and stunning golden views.

13. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap, is the largest religious monument in the world. Originally built as a Hindu temple in the 12th century, it later became a Buddhist site. Its grand towers, detailed carvings, and wide moats make it one of the most awe-inspiring landmarks in Asia.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from December to February, when the weather is cooler and there’s less rain.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Visiting at sunrise offers the most iconic views and fewer crowds.

14. Petronas Twin Towers, Malaysia

The Petronas Twin Towers, located in Kuala Lumpur, were once the tallest buildings in the world. Standing 1,483 feet tall, the towers are connected by a skybridge on the 41st and 42nd floors. Their sleek, modern design and sparkling lights at night make them one of Malaysia’s most iconic landmarks.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between May and July or December to February when the weather is generally drier and better for sightseeing.

Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Closed on Mondays. Evening visits offer stunning views of the city lights.

15. Batu Caves, Malaysia

Batu Caves, located just outside Kuala Lumpur, is a series of limestone caves housing important Hindu temples. A giant golden statue of Lord Murugan stands at the base, and visitors climb 272 colorful steps to reach the main cave. The caves come alive during the Thaipusam festival with vibrant celebrations.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from January to March, when the weather is drier and cooler.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds for climbing the steps.

16. Chocolate Hills, Philippines

The Chocolate Hills, located on Bohol Island, are a group of more than 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills. During the dry season, the green grass covering the hills turns brown, giving them the look of giant chocolate drops. Their unique shape and color make them one of the Philippines’ most famous natural wonders.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between November and May during the dry season for clear skies and the best views.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Morning visits offer cooler weather and less crowding.

17. Borobudur, Indonesia

Borobudur, located in Central Java, is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Built in the 9th century, it features nine stacked platforms topped by a large central dome, with over 500 Buddha statues and intricate carvings. The temple’s design reflects Buddhist cosmology and offers breathtaking views at sunrise.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from April to October, during the dry season when the weather is more pleasant.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Sunrise visits are highly recommended for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

18. The Grand Palace, Thailand

The Grand Palace, located in Bangkok, served as the royal residence for Thai kings for over 150 years. The complex is filled with glittering buildings, golden spires, and the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Its detailed architecture and rich history make it one of Thailand’s most visited landmarks.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between November and February when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for walking around.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Early morning visits are best to avoid heavy crowds and heat.

19. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

Gardens by the Bay is a futuristic park in the heart of Singapore, famous for its towering Supertree structures and climate-controlled domes. Visitors can stroll through the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and walk along the skyway for stunning views. At night, the Supertrees light up in a colorful show set to music.

Best Times to Visit: Gardens by the Bay can be visited year-round, but February to April offers slightly cooler and drier weather.

Visiting Hours: Outdoor gardens are open daily from 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM. Conservatories like the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

20. Golden Bridge, Vietnam

The Golden Bridge, located in the Ba Na Hills near Da Nang, is a striking pedestrian bridge held up by two giant stone hands. Opened in 2018, the bridge offers panoramic views of the lush mountains and surrounding countryside. Its unique design quickly made it one of Vietnam’s most iconic attractions.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is cooler and skies are clearer.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Morning visits are best for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

21. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, located in northern Vietnam, is known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands topped with rainforests. Many islands feature caves, beaches, and floating villages. The bay’s breathtaking scenery has earned it a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Asia’s top natural wonders.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between October and December when the weather is cooler, drier, and the skies are clearer.

Visiting Hours: Open for tours and cruises throughout the day. Early morning cruises offer calmer waters and fewer crowds.

22. Taipei 101, Taiwan

Taipei 101, located in the heart of Taipei City, was once the tallest building in the world. Designed to look like a giant bamboo stalk, it stands 1,667 feet tall with 101 floors. The building is known for its high-speed elevators and its massive tuned mass damper that helps it withstand earthquakes and typhoons.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is from October to February, when the weather is cooler and skies are clearer.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Evening visits offer stunning views of the city lights from the observation deck.

23. Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China stretches over 13,000 miles across mountains, deserts, and plains. Built mainly during the Ming Dynasty, it was designed to protect China from invasions. Today, it stands as one of the most impressive architectural feats in history, with many sections open for hiking and exploring.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is during spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful.

Visiting Hours: Most sections are open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Early morning visits are best for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

24. Forbidden City, China

The Forbidden City, located in Beijing, served as the imperial palace for 24 Chinese emperors over nearly 500 years. With 9,999 rooms spread across 178 acres, it is the largest ancient palace in the world. Its grand halls, golden roofs, and intricate designs offer a glimpse into China’s royal past.

Best Times to Visit: Visit during spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays. Arriving early helps you avoid large tour groups.

25. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in Hunan Province, is famous for its towering sandstone pillars. These natural formations inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. The park features glass bridges, cable cars, and scenic trails that offer unforgettable views of the misty peaks and lush forests.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between September and November for cooler temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful fall colors.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Morning visits offer clearer views before mist and crowds build up.

26. Potala Palace, Tibet

Potala Palace, located in Lhasa, is a 13-story fortress that once served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Sitting on top of Marpo Ri Hill, it has over 1,000 rooms filled with ancient murals, statues, and sacred texts. Its striking white and red walls make it one of Tibet’s most iconic landmarks.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between May and October when the weather is warmer and travel conditions are better.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Entry is limited, so it’s best to arrive early and book tickets in advance.

27. Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Japan

Fushimi Inari-Taisha, located in Kyoto, is one of Japan’s most famous Shinto shrines. It is best known for its thousands of bright orange torii gates that form scenic trails up Mount Inari. Each gate is donated by individuals or businesses hoping for good fortune and success.

Best Times to Visit: Visit in spring (March to May) or fall (October to November) for mild weather and colorful scenery.

Visiting Hours: Open 24 hours a day. Early mornings or evenings are best to enjoy the peaceful paths without crowds.

28. Mount Fuji, Japan

Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, stands at 12,389 feet and is known for its nearly perfect cone shape. It is a sacred symbol in Japanese culture and appears in many artworks. Climbing Mount Fuji or viewing it from nearby lakes and towns is a highlight for many travelers.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit is during July and August, which is the official climbing season with safer weather conditions.

Visiting Hours: Open for climbing 24 hours during the official season. Early morning climbs are popular for reaching the summit by sunrise.

29. Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Uzbekistan

Bibi-Khanym Mosque, located in Samarkand, was once one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world. Built in the 15th century by the ruler Timur, it features massive blue domes, grand arches, and intricate tilework that reflect the beauty of Timurid architecture.

Best Times to Visit: Visit during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) for pleasant temperatures and clear skies.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light for photos and fewer crowds.

30. Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan

The Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell,” is a fiery pit in the Karakum Desert. It has been burning continuously since 1971, when a drilling accident caused the ground to collapse and release natural gas. The glowing crater, especially at night, offers a surreal and unforgettable sight.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between March and May or September to November when desert temperatures are milder.

Visiting Hours: Open all day and night. Nighttime visits are the best for seeing the crater’s full fiery glow.

31. Baiterek Monument, Kazakhstan

The Baiterek Monument, located in Astana (formerly Nur-Sultan), is a symbol of Kazakhstan’s modern identity. Standing 318 feet tall, it represents a mythical tree of life with a golden egg at its top. Visitors can ride an elevator to an observation deck inside the egg for panoramic views of the city.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between May and September when the weather is warm and ideal for sightseeing.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Evening visits offer beautiful sunset views over the city.

32. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Iran

Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the “Pink Mosque,” is located in Shiraz, Iran. It is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows that create a rainbow of colors across the floor when the morning sun shines through. The mosque’s delicate tile work and colorful designs make it a must-visit landmark.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between March and May or September to November when the weather is cooler and more comfortable.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Early morning visits are best to catch the sunlight through the stained glass.

33. Shah Mosque, Iran

The Shah Mosque, located on Isfahan’s famous Naqsh-e Jahan Square, is a masterpiece of Persian architecture. Built in the 17th century, it features stunning blue tiles, towering minarets, and a grand dome that echoes perfectly when you speak. Its beauty and craftsmanship have made it a symbol of Iran’s rich history.

Best Times to Visit: Visit during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) for mild weather and comfortable sightseeing.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Morning visits offer softer light for admiring the detailed tile work.

34. Burj Khalifa, UAE

Burj Khalifa, located in Dubai, is the tallest building in the world, standing at a height of 2,717 feet. It features observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors, offering breathtaking views of the city and beyond. Its sleek design and towering presence make it a symbol of modern achievement.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between November and April when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Sunset visits are popular for stunning city views and beautiful evening lights.

35. Sheikh Zayed Mosque, UAE

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque, located in Abu Dhabi, is one of the largest mosques in the world. It features stunning white marble, gold details, and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet. With its beautiful domes, reflective pools, and intricate design, it welcomes visitors of all faiths to admire its beauty.

Best Times to Visit: Visit between November and April when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, except on Friday mornings. Evening visits offer breathtaking views under the lights.

36. Petra, Jordan

Petra, known as the “Rose City,” is an ancient city carved into pink sandstone cliffs in southern Jordan. Built by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, it features impressive structures like the Treasury, the Monastery, and hidden tombs. Walking through the narrow Siq to see Petra’s wonders is an unforgettable experience.

Best Times to Visit: Visit during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) for mild temperatures and comfortable hiking.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early morning visits are best to avoid heat and crowds.

37. Mount Rinjani, Indonesia

Mount Rinjani, located on Lombok Island, is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia. It features a stunning crater lake called Segara Anak, hot springs, and scenic trails. Climbing Rinjani is a challenging adventure, but the breathtaking views from the summit make the effort worthwhile.

Best Times to Visit: Visit during the dry season from May to September when the trails are safer and the weather is clear.

Visiting Hours: Open for trekking during the dry season. Most hikes start early in the morning to take advantage of cooler temperatures.

38. Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace, located in Seoul, was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Built in 1395, it features beautiful traditional architecture, scenic gardens, and grand gates. Visitors can also watch the colorful changing of the guard ceremony held at the main entrance.

Best Times to Visit: Visit in spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms or in fall (September to November) for colorful autumn leaves.

Visiting Hours: Open Wednesday to Monday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Tuesdays. Morning visits offer cooler weather and fewer crowds.

39. Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Bukhara is one of Central Asia’s oldest cities, with over 2,000 years of history. It is filled with well-preserved madrasahs, mosques, and ancient trading domes. Walking through Bukhara’s old town feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow streets, historic architecture, and lively bazaars.

Best Times to Visit: Visit during spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring.

Visiting Hours: Open for exploration all day. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for walking tours and taking photos in soft light.

Conclusion

Asia is full of famous landmarks that show its deep history, rich culture, and natural beauty. Each place tells a story and offers something special for every traveler.

Now that you know about these amazing sites, you can start planning your own adventures or simply dream about where you might go one day. These landmarks are reminders of what people and nature can create over time.

Remember, the best trips start with a little inspiration. Keep learning, stay curious, and add your favorite spots to your travel list.

If you enjoyed exploring these famous landmarks in Asia, check out our other blogs for more travel ideas and tips!