Shwedagon Pagoda history dates back over 2,500 years. This Buddhist Temple is said to be the oldest stupa in the world, and it is one of the most sacred Buddhist landmarks in all of Myanmar. This exceptionally intricate structure is gold-plated and encrusted with thousands of glittering diamonds at the top. The interior shelters relics from three Buddhas, as well as hairs from Gautama Buddha. Here, you can witness an oil lamp ceremony at sunset, which will prove to be one of the most sacred moments that you can experience at the pagoda. The Shwedagon Pagoda is one of Yangon's most brilliant highlights -- you must make time to see it as you explore the city.

Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple in Bahan township, Yangon is known for its Reclining Buddha image which is 213 feet (65 m) long. Originally created in 1907, this sculpture underwent revisions to lengthen it by 16 feet (5 m) in 1966. This artwork displays a rich palette of hues, including the Buddha's pearl-colored skin, resplendent golden robes, sky-blue eyes, and ornate crimson and gold decorations that adorn the soles of his feet. At the pagoda, you can find small monasteries where monks teach about Buddhism, as well as plaques in Burmese and English that describe the Buddha's message.

Built over 2,000 years ago, the Sule Pagoda is truly magnificent. This impressive Buddhist stupa is octagonal, glitters with gold leaf, and stands at a lofty 144 feet (44 m) high. Sule Pagoda is another Burmese temple that safeguards a sacred hair relic from the Buddha. The magnificent temple occupies a traffic circle; here, tradition and modernity collide as fast-paced vehicles travel around this centuries-old building!

The Bogyoke Aung San Market (also known as Scott Market) is in a lovely colonial building, located in Yangon's downtown. With over 1,600 shops, you can easily spend an entire day at the market looking for souvenirs! From everyday goods to luxury items, this fascinating market overflows with varieties of clothing, handicrafts, antiques, and art galleries, and Bogyoke Market jade is especially prized. If you have a hankering for delicious Burmese cuisine, there are plenty of food stalls that serve traditional dishes which are sure to be a feast for all of your senses.

Few Southeast Asian sites are more spectacular than the Golden Rock Pagoda. This massive boulder is an important religious artifact and famous for its precarious position. Covered in gold leaf and crowned with an ornate stupa, it delicately balances on the side of a cliff and seems certain to fall. According to legend, it stays in place because it is tied with a lock of the Buddha's hair. Amazingly, the boulder has stood firm for many centuries, and today, Kyaiktiyo Pagoda remains an important Buddhist pilgrimage site in Myanmar. During the evening, make sure to visit this lofty summit when it is ablaze with the fiery light of sunset.

The ruins at Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserve the culture of Siam’s most prosperous eras. This historic site in Sukhothai has many highlights, and the Sukhothai kingdom is considered to be a golden age of Thai architecture and art. The park’s central zone, where the impressive Wat Mahathat Sukhothai temple is found, is truly stunning. Here, discover a grand stupa that is surrounded by a host of spires, beautiful Buddha statues, and intricate bas-reliefs of monks praying -- true testaments to the splendor of the period. In addition to the striking remnants, you can also find intriguing paintings, sculptures, and decorations. Unsurprisingly, this historic site is believed to have been the spiritual and political center of Thailand’s ancient capital. In addition, Sukhothai Historical Park spreads across approximately 27 square miles (70 sq. km). This spaciousness allows for plenty of room to explore historical remnants and the park’s lovely natural scenery, including lotus-covered pools, flowing canals, and plenty of lush greenery.

The impressive ruins in Lopburi stand as reminders of the city's glory days during the Khmer Empire. Built in the 13th century atop a small mound, Prang Sam Yot Buddhist temple is one of the most striking Lopburi temples. Years later, it was converted into a Hindu religious site, and its three towers (which are linked by corridors) are thought to represent Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. During King Narai's reign in the late 17th century, Prang Sam Yot returned to its Buddhist roots, and a special hall was built to house sacred Buddha statues. Today, these ruins remain one of the most famous sites in all of Lopburi. However, please be careful of the monkeys! Prang Sam Yot (Monkey Temple) is home to over 3,000 primates, and it’s not uncommon to be pickpocketed by this clever animal. Make sure to keep your eyes on your belongings, especially any snacks or food.

If you’re looking for the most revered Buddha image in Thailand, you may be surprised to find it in the quaint town of Phitsanulok. This small municipality is home to Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, a temple that is situated on the banks of the Nan River and has a long history that stretches back to the Sukhothai era. Inside this sacred wat, you’ll find Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha image, seated on a golden throne. The temple was commissioned by King Phaya Lithai in the 14th century, who also decreed that three sacred Buddha images would be placed inside. Originally, the first two were considered to be perfect, but the third required revision. In time, the third statue -- also known as Phra Buddha Chinnarat -- was widely regarded as the best of the trio. It remains in the sanctuary today, and the other statues are now displayed in Bangkok. Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat also features a stunning giant Buddha statue in its main pagoda that is definitely worth a visit.

Built in the 17th century, the Grand Palace complex is truly stunning. This snow-white building, accented with vibrant shades of orange, emerald, and glistening gold, boasts unique architecture that blends traditional Thai styles with influences from the Italian Renaissance. Near the complex, discover the mint, ministries, and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). The Grand Palace Thailand was once the heart of the Thai Kingdom. Today, the palace is still used for special occasions, especially the robe changing ceremony for Wat Phra Kaew’s Emerald Buddha statue. This beautiful Buddha statue dons different sets of gold robes for the summer, rainy, and cool seasons. If you choose a Grand Palace tour package, you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of these striking monuments.

In the late 18th century, Wat Phra Kaew history began when King Rama I first declared Bangkok as Siam’s new capital. Today, this iconic temple continues to be heralded as the center of Thai Buddhism and is also home to the Emerald Buddha -- the country’s holiest image. This stunning Buddha sits in a meditative position, and it was carved from a single block of jade in the Lanna style of Thailand’s north. The Wat Phra Kaew Emerald Buddha not only remains an important part of Thai religion but also a quintessential example of the country’s vibrant history and culture. In addition, this magnificent Buddha statue and historic temple are found on the grounds of the Grand Palace. Located in the heart of Bangkok, the Grand Palace is an especially impressive example of traditional Thai architecture. You must stop by to see the country’s most important relic.

Bangkok was built around the Chao Phraya River, and Bangkok river cruise tours offer tourists an exciting opportunity to glimpse Bangkok’s sacred temples and traditional buildings from a unique perspective. Bangkok’s waterways, including the picturesque Chao Phraya, are critical to a city that is crammed with traffic. Today, traditional Thai life still takes place along the river’s intricate network of canals. Gently float along on a Chao Phraya dinner cruise to see Bangkok in the evening, when the city is at its most beautiful. Savor delicious Thai cuisine as you take in views of stunning temples and the glittering city, alive with a spectrum of colorful lights. Whether you choose to travel during the day or night, Bangkok river cruises never fail to reveal new aspects of this amazing metropolis.

Even though Wat Arun is known as the Temple of Dawn, this iconic structure is especially impressive at sunset! Located directly opposite of Wat Pho on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun’s spires are adorned with shimmering fragments of colored glass and Chinese porcelain. Wat Arun Temple's tallest spire is almost 230 feet (70 m) high, and it truly defines the city’s striking landscape. Take a Chao Phraya River cruise to this dazzling monument, or catch one of the local ferries that take you past impressive temples and picturesque scenery. Please note, local Buddhists and tourists alike must follow the Wat Arun dress code and keep their shoulders, arms, torsos, and legs covered at all times.

When it comes to Bangkok sightseeing, the beautiful temple of Wat Pho is an absolute must-see. Not only does Wat Pho hold the biggest collection of Buddha statues in Thailand, but it is home to a striking Reclining Buddha -- a gold statue that stretches almost 50 feet (15 m) high and 150 feet (46 m) long! Equally impressive are the Buddha’s feet, adorned with intricate mother-of-pearl inlays that illustrate specific bodily features of the Buddha. Continue exploring Wat Pho chapels to see more beautiful golden Buddhas seated in the lotus position, as well as multicolored murals that depict former lives of the Buddha. Wat Pho is also home to charming Chinese statues that were used as ships’ ballasts from the maritime trade between Thailand and China many centuries ago. As with most sacred sites in Southeast Asia, please remember that the Wat Pho dress code asks visitors to dress modestly.

The Temple of the Golden Buddha in Bangkok’s Chinatown is known for its precious artwork: a solid gold Buddha image that weighs approximately five and a half tons! Likely 700 to 800 years old, this stunning statue is the largest golden Buddha in the entire world. The Golden Buddha story is fascinating. During either the Sukhothai or Ayutthaya periods, it was covered in plaster to protect its true worth from Burmese invaders. In the 1950s, the Buddha’s solid gold interior was finally uncovered when the statue was accidentally dropped, cracking off part of the plaster coating and revealing the priceless precious metal shimmering underneath.

When it comes to Southeast Asia's highlights, visiting Angkor Wat Temples is at the top of many travelers' bucket lists. Angkor Wat is the centerpiece of the UNESCO-recognized temples of Angkor -- a well-preserved reminder of the Khmer Empire's former grandeur. It comes as no surprise that Angkor Wat tours provide fascinating insights into bygone eras. At least once in your lifetime, see this massive temple complex in silhouette before it shines with the golden light of early morning. As you witness a beautiful sunrise over Angkor Wat, be prepared for a truly unforgettable moment. Over the centuries, overgrown foliage has interwoven itself into the picturesque temple of Angkor Thom. And, if you're looking for less touristic Angkor complex ruins, venture to the hidden gems of Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre to see exquisite salmon-pink sandstone carvings.

Royal Palace history began in 1866, when it was built under the command of King Norodom. The king, in collaboration with ministers and astrologers, decided on this exact site due to its geographic significance. With its traditional Khmer- style roofs, dramatic spires, and generous flourishes of gold, this iconic palace can be seen across the city. Many years ago, the Royal Palace also featured traditional Cambodian dance performances. Discover the Throne Hall -- a site for local ceremonies -- with its tower that stretches almost 200 feet (59 m) into the sky. As with all sacred Southeast Asian sites, the Royal Palace dress code requires conservative clothing that fully covers your shoulders, arms, torso, and legs.

One Phnom Penh attraction you should definitely visit is the Silver Pagoda, named for its floor made from solid silver tiles. This pagoda, as well as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, are two striking structures that form the Royal Palace Complex. Constructed in the late 1800s and early 1900s, this magnificent pagoda was rebuilt in the 1960s. Some of the temple's treasures were lost when Vietnamese forces swept into Phnom Penh to overthrow Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. Yet today, the pagoda still houses many invaluable works of art including Buddha statues made from precious metals. The most impressive of these Buddha images is crafted from gold, encrusted with diamonds, and weighs almost 200 pounds (90 kg)!

Wat Phnom Temple is a major attraction in Phnom Penh. According to legend, Lady Penh found a large tree near the Mekong River with four bronze Buddha statues inside. She later built a small shrine for these artworks that eventually became Wat Phnom. Located on the city's only hill, this temple has an especially impressive entrance, including a staircase with lion and naga (serpent) sculptures. In addition to the beauty of Wat Phnom's religious and artistic treasures, the building is surrounded by abundant trees and emerald-green foliage. Today, devoted locals come to the wat to wish for good luck and success in school or work.

The Central Post Office dates back to French colonial times and was designed by Gustave Eiffel with his collaborator Marie-Alfred Foulhoux. It is located next to Notre Dame Cathedral and encourages visitors to imagine what life was like in the late 1800s. It also remains in excellent condition and fully functional. Tourists are welcome to stop by and send postcards that will serve as reminders of their trip to this rich historical site. The Central Post Office still keeps two old glue pots, which were used many years ago for attaching stamps to envelopes. Some of the building's most distinguishing features include its marble floors, two overhead maps, and a colossal portrait of Ho Chi Minh.

Set on lovely grounds with manicured trees, the airy and open Reunification Palace is a fascinating example of 1960s architecture. Many dramatic scenes from Vietnam’s modern history took place at this building; the Reunification Palace is most famous for being the site where the Vietnam War ended. In 1975, a North Vietnamese tank smashed through the building's gates, and a soldier rushed inside to fly a Viet Cong flag from the balcony. Today, it still hosts important occasions including meetings with national and international dignitaries. Unless official events are taking place, this fascinating palace remains open to visitors.

The Cholon Area is Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown and abounds with classical Chinese architecture and temples. As you explore this bustling town, you'll see Chinese characters decorating the shop houses and find people chatting in Chinese. Cholon also includes Binh Tay Market, built by the French in the 1880s. Binh Tay offers exceptional insight into local culture, tradition, and cuisine. Here, the wide range of available foods is an experience in itself, and their varied colors and textures make for excellent photographs.

Ho Chi Minh's Notre Dame Cathedral, named for the Virgin Mary, was built by the French during the late 1870s and early 1880s. This elegant Catholic church is almost 200 feet high (60 m) and constructed from brick imported from Marseille, which still retains its bright red color. The cathedral's design includes two large bell towers with bronze bells, as well as exquisite stained- glass windows. There is a Virgin Mary statue located in the church's front square, and it is believed that this statue shed actual tears in 2005. Each day, numerous people visit the church to pray, light votive candles, and hope that they will see a miracle.

The War Remnants Museum, formerly known as the Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes, is a stark memorial to the Vietnam War. It includes U.S. military equipment, bombs, armored vehicles, and an immense helicopter. In addition, there are hundreds of striking exhibits and horrific photos. Each year, approximately half a million visitors visit the museum to learn about the intense suffering brought about by the war. While the War Remnants Museum is a very somber place, and these artifacts are extremely difficult to look at, they stand as powerful reminders of the importance of peace.

The 155-mile-stretch (250 km) of Cu Chi Tunnels, which were used by Northern Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War, are located north of Ho Chi Minh City. These tunnels served numerous functions; they were a hiding spot from enemies, places where families lived for extended periods, storage facilities, military command centers, and hospitals. If you wish, you may try to crawl into the tunnels, although you will be startled by how narrow they are. In recent years, some of the tunnels have been slightly enlarged to allow visitors easier access.