Places vijayhm Wants to Go

Ming Dynasty necropolis raided during the Cultural Revolution.

The embalmed remains of the communist leader lie within a custom crystal coffin.

An ancient Chinese temple where even the emperor dressed like a farmer in the name of the harvest.

This ancient Chinese observatory still contains early astronomy technology.

A bisected journey through evolution's history in the heart of Beijing.

This probably wasn't what Mao had in mind.

North Korea's massive art and propaganda factory now has an official gallery space in Beijing.

Two Chinese dragons guard the caves of this medieval temple in Iran.

The cathedral stands in New Jufa, Isfahan's Armenian quarter that was established in 1606.

This 17th-century structure is a beautiful testimony to traditional Persian architecture

One of the holiest Shi'i shrines in Iran honors the life and death of a learned noblewoman who became a saint.

This circular Iranian jail was once a political prison run by the country's secret police.

A historic trade hub teeming with gorgeous architecture, colorful goods, and vibrant designs.

The tower in this 1,000-year-old mud-brick village seems to vibrate for no apparent reason.

Burial site of a Jewish prophet revered in Iran.

The hottest, driest, and most scenic desert on Earth.

This ancient burial site is believed to be one of the first earthquake-protected structures in the world.

A dreamy mausoleum honors Persia's most famous poet.

In this tiny Iranian town playing on the roof isn't just encouraged, it's the only place to go.

One of the largest and oldest caravansaries in Persia.

The ancient necropolis houses the immense rock-cut tombs of four Persian kings.

Modern-day cave dwellers carve elaborate homes out of volcanic debris.

One of the world's largest salt caves is filled with fragile salt sculptures, salt rivers, and huge salt megadomes.

17th century mosque for Shah Abbas' harem.