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Sacred Wonders of the World - BBC One's latest series
BBC1’s beautifully shot new three part series, Sacred Wonders, takes us to some of the world’s most famous landmarks that have been built in the name of religion. Whatever your religious beliefs, it's fair to say these man-made wonders are nothing short of magical.
Here are a few sacred wonders we'd be delighted to take you to.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Known as the biggest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat is the largest temple in the vast temple complex of Angkor. Dating back to the 12 th century, the temples are architectural masterpieces, each with hundreds of intricate carvings telling various tales of love and war. A visit here is sure to leave you awe-struck. We’ll make sure you don’t miss out as each of our holidays in Cambodia include a dazzling tour of Angkor Wat.
The Golden Temple, India
The Golden Temple is the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion. The top structure of the temple is covered with pure gold leaf, hence the name. It appears as if its floating, surrounded by a pool of water in which pilgrims bathe and pray. Enclosing the pool and temple are ornate marble buildings with four entrances, the four sides symbolise equality and that all people are welcome, wherever they are from. Enjoy a full afternoon exploring this breath-taking sacred site on our
Gentle Walking, Indian Hill Stations & the Golden Temple tour.
Nachi Shrine & Nachi Falls, Japan
The Nachi falls is the tallest waterfall in Japan at 133 meters, considered to be sacred by both the main religions in Japan, Buddhism and Shinto. For believers and non-believers alike, the thundering sound of water cascading in the middle of a primeval forest is sure to offer a spiritual experience. A complex of shrines has been built on the nearby mountainside, including, one of Japans most photogenic places, the stunning Nachi Grand Shrine overlooking Nachi falls. Experience Nachi Shine and Nachi Falls, plus many of Japan's ancient cultural delights on our Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trek.
Taktsang Monastery
Perched dramatically on a cliff above the Paro Valley this very photogenic attraction has genuine wow factor. It is said to be where the legendary saint, Guru Padma Sambhava, flew from Tibet on the back of a tiger to defeat five demons, who were opposing the spread of Buddhism. You can visit this breath-taking sight on all of our trips to
Bhutan apart from our Gentle Walking Eastern Bhutan trip.
Boudhanath Stupa
Located about 11 km (6.8 mi) from the centre of Kathmandu, lies one of the biggest and most impressive stupas in the world - Boudhanath Stupa, said to house the remains of Gautama Buddha. The structure dates back to the 14th century but still remains in perfect condition. This is due to the flood of donations coming from the local people, who in return hope for good karma. Legend has it, each part of the stupa represents one of the elements, the plinth symbolising the earth, the dome depicts water, the tower fire and the rings from the bottom to the top signify the path to enlightenment. Explore this sacred wonder on any of our Nepal trips that features a sightseeing day in Kathmandu, or alternatively add it as an extension.
All the episodes of BBC One’s Sacred Wonders are now available to watch here on iPlayer.
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