A UNESCO World Heritage gem since 1979, Plitvice Lakes National Park dazzles with a fairy-tale cascade of tufa lakes, hidden caves and dramatic canyons, its waterfalls tumbling from heights over 250 feet. Emerald-green waters thread through 16 lakes and more than 90 falls, all inviting exploration along a network of wooden walkways and winding trails.

In the heart of the Guatemalan jungle, surrounded by lush vegetation, lies the ruins of an ancient Mayan civilization, inhabited from the 6th century BC to the 10th century AD. The ceremonial center is home to massive temples, palaces and public squares accessed by ramps.

The emerald green forests of Japan’s Arashiyama offer more than meets the eye. Come for the bamboo but stay to explore the charming temples, beautiful shrines and cherry blossoms along Ōi River.

Sri Lanka’s Ella is most well known for Nine Arches Bridge, a viaduct bridge built without any steel and set against a lush green landscape surrounded by rolling hills, cloud forests and tea plantations. The town also boasts epic waterfalls, exhilarating train rides and sacred Buddhist temples.

Over 10,000 torii gates line the path to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the head shrine of the deity Inari Ōkami and spirit of foxes, fertility, rice, tea, sake, agriculture, industry, general prosperity and worldly success. Placing offerings helps protect visitors from evil forces.

Located in the lush mountains north of Tokyo, Nikkō has long been celebrated as for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain worship. Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Nikkō National Park are highlights worth exploring.