It is almost impossible to describe our planet’s beauty in a couple of words. The sheer beauty and infinitesimally diverse landscape all over the world plays host to equally countless holiday destinations. Of course, to list all of the world’s most beautiful places is a Herculean task that can never end. Here is a humble list of some of these places you should definitely visit during your lifetime:

Santorini, Greece – A unique collection of islands formed by volcanic eruption, Santorini hosts a myriad of cliffs rising in and out of the sea, along with beautiful white houses dotting the landscape. The azure expanse of the Aegean Sea, endless cliffs coated with pearly white buildings and pristine beaches attract thousands of visitors every year. Apart from the lush countryside, Santorini also exhibits numerous culinary opportunities, wine breweries and a massive showcase of Greek art and architecture.

Machu Picchu, Peru – This ancient ruin site is a time machine to the era when the South American Inca civilisation had a stronghold over the region. The Inca City here is shrouded in mystery as it has been never revealed why the structures were built. However, the meticulous planning gone into constructing the city of white, granite buildings is sure to keep you mesmerised. Surrounded on all sides by greenery growing on towering mountains, the delightful region and ancient ruins here provide excellent trekking routes.

The Great Wall of China, China – Built over two millennia ago, The Great Wall of China covers a staggering 5,500 miles across the country. This man-made structure has stood the test of time and it is absolutely remarkable to think how the wall was built so many years ago. A favourite amongst backpackers, The Great Wall of China snakes through deserts, meadows, plateaus and hills covered with dense forests. Mist covers sections of the wall during colder months and a hike through it is sure to enthrall your senses. At any time of the year, the wall has a unique appeal – from ice covered slopes overlooking the wall in winters to colourful blooming flowers during spring and summer.

Great Blue Hole, Belize – A paradise for scuba divers, the Great Blue Hole is a colossal submarine sinkhole that was formed over thousands of years covering the glacial periods of earth. The larger-than-life beauty of the place even earned it a spot on Discovery Channel’s list of 10 Most Amazing Places on Earth in 2012. Diving in the placid crystal clear waters here is an absolute treat and gives you the chance to get intimate with the exotic aquatic life here that consists of Caribbean Reef Shark, Midnight Parrotfish and the strange-looking Hammerhead Shark. Another highlight here is the magnificent coral reef formation. Situated 2 hours away from the Belize mainland, visiting this spot is sure to reward with an experience worth remembering.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Earning a well-deserved spot among the world’s seven natural wonders, The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system with over 900 islands. In fact, it is so noticeable that it can be viewed from outer space. It is one of the richest grounds of aquatic life and is a habitat to numerous endangered species. Fish like clownfish, snapper and red bass, whales, dolphins, sharks, turtles and sea snakes flourish here. The underwater realm is covered with multi-coloured coral reefs and countless fish species that make diving a lifetime experience to witness earth’s diversity in zoological evolution.

Mount Roraima, Venezuela-Brazil-Guyana border – This otherworldly plateau-like natural formation first saw limelight when it inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle for his book The Lost World. Rising into the sky like a monolith, the mountain’s top can be accessed only from Venezuela, but the trek is worth it. Covered in rainforests and possessing a mysterious aura around its landscape, Mount Roraima is believed to be home to various flora and fauna that are believed to have evolved in total isolation in the mountain. The humidity and moisture from the dense rainforests creates massive rain-filled clouds which envelope the mountain – a surreal experience if you happen to be here during this time. It is tough to reach here, but the journey and experience is surely worth it.

Kirkjufell Mountain, Iceland – Although the geographical marvels of Iceland are endless, the Kirkujofell Mountain is one of the most unique natural wonders here. In words it is just a simple forested mountain rising from green plains along a massive water body, but in reality it is much more than that. You need to see this place to believe the captivating appeal it possesses. The mountain resonates waves of peace and solitude; staring at it while the northern lights dance in the sky above is an image straight out of dreams.

So grab your stuff and set out on an exploration to these wondrous territories that will leave you spellbound.