According to ancient Babylonians and Assyrians, Ziggurat means a temple in the form of a pyramid with stairs around it, consisting of a number of levels and giving the appearance of many terraces. It also means light pinnacle. Crestone is a small town in Colorado with just over 100 people living there. In the 1970s, the town was a popular mining site, but today it is the focal point for many different religions and their centers. The Ziggurat at Crestone, Colorado, was built by Queen Noor of Jordan's father, an American businessman, in 1978. He built it as a place for reflection and prayer. Earlier considered as the way to communicate to heaven and a place for the Gods, it is now open to the public. Visitors can climb up the spiral staircase and express joy in witnessing the spectacles of the surrounds
Surrounded by picturesque landscape, Tashi Gomang Stupa perched up on the mountains of Sangre de Cristo of southern Colorado. Often termed Mini Tibet in the United States, the religious attraction comprises Buddhist monuments like 100,000 miniature stupas made by volunteers and ancient relics. The spiritual center also has a medical center and a retreat with a capacity to cater to 100 people. Climb atop for a peaceful time and a spectacular valley view.
Yeshe Rangsal Stupa is a beautiful Buddhist religious site that stands atop the mountain overlooking San Luis Valley. Located just outside Crestone, the beautiful temple offers instant tranquility. Perfect for meditation, immerse yourself in a journey of self-discovery. Enjoy the surroundings and admire the colorful prayer flags.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to North America's tallest sand dunes which measure roughly 750 feet (228 meters) above the San Luis Valley floor. The formation of these dunes took place approximately 440,000 years ago. Sand and soil deposits from the Rio Grande River led to the formation of these dunes. Though the sand dunes are the primary attraction, the park is also home to several wildlife species including the Sandhill crane, the Great Sand Dunes beetle, and bighorn sheep which are one of its most notable inhabitants.
Colorado Gators Reptile Park, a former tilapia farm is a bird and reptile sanctuary. Opened in 1990, the park shelters species such as alligators, pythons and tortoises.
Head to the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center before commencing your dune exploration. Through its exhibits and short film, this center offers a deep insight into the history and formation of dunes. Talk to a park ranger if you have any queries pertaining to your visit.
Colorado Gators Reptile Park, a former tilapia farm is a bird and reptile sanctuary. Opened in 1990, the park shelters species such as alligators, pythons and tortoises.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to North America's tallest sand dunes which measure roughly 750 feet (228 meters) above the San Luis Valley floor. The formation of these dunes took place approximately 440,000 years ago. Sand and soil deposits from the Rio Grande River led to the formation of these dunes. Though the sand dunes are the primary attraction, the park is also home to several wildlife species including the Sandhill crane, the Great Sand Dunes beetle, and bighorn sheep which are one of its most notable inhabitants.
The Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Almosa was constructed in 1922. It illustrates the Mission or Spanish Revival style of architecture. Built in beige stone, its exterior facade features a three-bay arched entrance. It was listed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1998.
With excessive focus on the lives of the people living in farms and ranches in San Luis Valley, The San Luis Valley Museum - Alamosa came to existence. The museum showcases many exhibits in the form of photographs, artifacts, antiques of the many communities that settled in the area. The museum hosts several events through the year.
The Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is located in Colorado's San Luis Valley. Established in 1953 to protect migratory waterfowl, the area encompasses a total of 14,800 acres (5989 hectares). Throughout the year, the refuge attracts thousands of visitors, who throng the place for outdoor adventures. The Meadowlark Nature Trail within the complex presents splendid opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography, offering glimpses of local forest dwellers. Various interpretive boars around the refuge allow visitors to learn more about its ecology, history, and natural habitats.