10 Surreal Places on Earth Worth a Visit

BENGALURU: Our planet has more to offer than we can think of. With diverse geographical conditions prevailing all over the world, we bring you some of the surreal locations that are worth a visit, as told by Talia Avakian from Business Insider.

The Door to Hell

First discovered by Soviet geologists in 1971, The Door to Hell in Turkmenistan is a 230ft wide pit that has been burning for 44 years. A site near to Derweze, it was first believed to harbor oil. However, it was later realized that the pit was a giant gas crater, which collapsed shortly while the scientists were working. Fearing the spread of poisonous gas emitted from the crater, they set the crater on fire which even burns today.

Hierapolis-Pamukkale

In the province of Denizli in western Turkey, one can find the naturally terraced thermal springs of Hierapolis-Pamukkale which dates back to the second century B.C. Formed by calcite in the water, the hot springs look like stunning white clouds.

The Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

In New Zealand, the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland has been formed as a result of volcanic activity for thousands of years. Considered as New Zealand’s most colorful and diverse geothermal attraction, the site features bubbling mud pools, mineral terraces, and geysers.

Lake Natron

Tanzania's Lake Natron is known for its deep red hue. Its rich color comes from algae and salt-loving organisms, and it draws millions of flamingo who flock from June to November.

The Danakil Depression

One of the hottest places on the planet, with temperatures reaching as high as 145 degrees Fahrenheit, the Danakil Depression in the northeastern corner of Ethiopia has a picturesque scenery to evoke the artistic self in you. With two active volcanoes, a bubbling lava lake, geysers, acid ponds, and several mineral deposits, the setting looks like something from another planet.

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon, located near Page, Arizona, draws travelers from all over the globe who capture its masterpiece of vivid colors while admiring its smooth, wave-like texture. It is one of the most photographed canyons in the American Southwest.

The Crescent Lake

An oasis amidst the golden sands of the Gobi Desert, The Crescent lake (or "Yueyaquan" in Chinese) is a fresh water spring in the shape of a half moon. The oasis is believed to have existed for around 2,000 years (though it has seen its water levels decline), and attractions include activities like dune surfing and camel riding.

Marvel

Famous as the largest natural hot spring in the US, Marvel at Grand Prismatic Spring, located in Wyoming's Yellowstone National Park is a favorite spot for its dazzling colors that shift from orange and reds in the summer to green hues in the winter.

Salar de Uyuni

The salt flats of Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia are covered in a thin layer of water during the wet season, creating surreal reflections of the sky. The striking landscape draws many tourists who flock to witness the surreal transformation of the salt flats.

The Kelimutu volcano

The Flores island of Indonesia is home to the Kelimutu volcano which has three colored lakes ranging from a hue of turquoise to a rich green. The lakes are incredibly dense, adding to the striking appearance of their colors, which are thought to be caused by dissolving minerals.