Top 6 Natural Thermal Baths in the world
Thermal baths or hot springs are generally formed because of various tectonic activities of Earth. They are spots in certain areas of the world where warm water surfaces from the ground when it is dug. Here are a few famous natural thermal baths in the world.
1. Hot Water Beach, New Zealand
Located in the Waikato region, Hot Water Beach is a beach which is home to many naturally occurring hot springs. It is situated on the east cost of the Coromandel Peninsula near Whitianga. At certain times of a low tide, tourists can dig the sand of the beach so that naturally occurring hot water can pass and create a small pool in which they can immerse themselves. The water of thermal baths of this beach can measure up to 140 degree Fahrenheit. Like many other tourist destinations of New Zealand, Hot Water Beach is also very picturesque and a must visit thermal bath destination.
2. Beppu, Japan
Hot springs or thermal baths in Japan are locally known as onsen and soaking in an onsen is an inherent part of Japanese culture. Naturally occurring thermal baths are found in many parts of Japan but the one found in Beppu in Oita is the most popular tourist destination. Beppu Onsen is known to have the second highest amount of underground hot water discharge in the world after Yellowstone National Park in America. Beppu Onsen is further divided into eight major hot springs and there are many mythological stories associated with their origins. The naturally occurring water of these baths is also known to have many therapeutic qualities for skin.
3. Banff Upper Hot Springs, Canada
Banff Upper Hot Springs are one of the highest hot springs in Canada located amidst a magnificent view of the Rockies range. Upper Hot Springs are one of the nine hot springs that naturally occur at Banff. These springs have been commercially developed as a recreational area which includes a bathhouse and a pool. The waters of these springs originate from Sulphur Mountain and are known to have healing qualities and are rich in minerals.
