When traveling through the continent of Asia, one thing that you’ll definitely notice is an abundance of palaces.
Most of these royal residences are no longer in use, but the good news is that tourists can visit these former luxury homes. So, what are you waiting for? Here are five of Asia’s most beautiful palaces.
Taj Mahal: Agra, India
Yes, the Taj Mahal is a palace! This gorgeous white marble building, one of the world’s most recognizable and well-known, needs no explanation. Just go, already!
Imperial Palace: Tokyo, Japan
This unique palace in Tokyo is actually still in use by Japan’s emperor. Don’t expect a tour, however: the Imperial Palace is only open for tours on two days per year!
The Royal Palace: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace is also still in use, being inhabited by the King of Cambodia. It was completed in 1866 and has survived for over a century and a half.
The Grand Palace: Bangkok, Thailand
You’re guaranteed to never forget your your visit to this palace complex in the center of Bangkok. Ornately decorated and colorful, it’s a visual masterpiece.
Potala Palace: Tibet, China
Now, as we move from the ornate to the more restrained, the Potala Palace in Tibet was the residence of the Dalai Lama until he fled in 1959. It’s now a gorgeous monument to Tibetan Buddhism.
