Uluru has been named as one of Lonely Planet’s top three best places to see worldwide, and we’re not at all surprised.

The travel bible confirmed on October 8th what most Australians already know: our spiritual heartland, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, is one of the most beautiful, iconic travel destinations anywhere in the world.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park’s third place ranking in 2020 puts the Aussie icon behind only two other destinations worldwide: Petra, Jordan and the Galapagos Islands.

Related travel story: Top 5 things to do at Uluru

Lonely Planet travel experts ranked Uluru in the top three locations to see in the world in 2020, however the full list will not be revealed until the second edition of their popular coffee table book – Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List – is published.

Eight other Australian experiences are expected to be included in the popular travel book, which features 500 experiences from around the world.

Related travel news: Travel the world with zero jet lag, courtesy of this new photography exhibit

Uluru has climbed the rankings rapidly over the past few years. It was ranked 33 in 2019, and jumped to number three in 2020: making it the best-performing Australian destination. 

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is being acknowledged for its sustainable practices as well as its ability to connect travellers with Indigenous culture. 

The second edition of the book will be quite different from the 2019 edition, reflecting the changing face of the travel industry. There are over 200 different entries since the first edition was published in 2019.

Related travel story: 14 of Australia’s best Indigenous travel experiences and tours for foodies