Asia is a true montage of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Each one of these varied countries on the continent has a charm of its own that appeals to the wanderer in every person across the globe. Come aboard on this journey through the best 17 Asian places to visit, where the sights and sounds promise to expose one to an experience akin to no other.
1. Japan: Land of the Rising Sun
- Top Attractions: Fablish temples, advanced sophisticated high technology, and fine cuisine.
- Highlights include the bright, futuristic cityscape of Tokyo; serene bamboo groves at Arashiyama in Kyoto; and ancient temples in Nara.
- Special Experience: The parks in Japan during spring boast cherry blossoms, while in autumn, the foliage is picturesque.
- Travel Tips: If you will be traveling to at least two cities using the Shinkansen Boleted train, buy a JR Pass.
It’s the perfect balance between modern innovation and still-ongoing traditional practices. From the flashing, neon streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan shows really how well past and future actually blend together. From ancient shrines and the samurai warlord culture, to stateoftheart technology, and food from sushi to ramen, Japan has it all.
- Top Attractions: Tropical Beaches, Opulent Royal Palaces, Ancient Ruins
- Highlights: bustling markets in Bangkok, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, and the stunning Phi Phi Islands.
- Unique Experience: Take in a traditional Thai massage in Chiang Mai or celebrate the wild Songkran festival.
- Travel Tip: Thailand is an excellent country for budget travelers; street food is cheap and delicious, as is transportation.
Thailand is not only about hustling Bangkok, but the hospitality of the Thais, street food in Chiang Mai, and tranquil islands of Koh Samui and Phuket combined make the nation a dream destination for any beach lover. The rich culture can be seen in many temples, vibrant festivals, and mouthwatering cuisine.
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3. China: Cradle of Civilization
- Top Attractions: Great Wall of China, Terracotta Army, Diverse Landscapes
- Highlights: the historic city of Xi’an, the beautiful Li River in Guilin, and modern Shanghai.
- Experience: A visit to the Forbidden City in Beijing and a cruise down the Yangtze River.
- Travel Tips: Learn basic Mandarin phrases; while English is spoken in major cities, it’s less common in rural areas.
Travelers to China find themselves face to face with millennia of history. Behold the Great Wall, explore the skyscrapers of Shanghai, and indulge in one of the white hot cuisines of Sichuan. The broad and varied landscapes of China run the gamut from towering mountains and deserts to modern cities and ancient villages.
4. India: A Land of Wonder
- Top Attractions: Majestic Taj Mahal, Serene Backwaters of Kerala, Colorful Festivals
- Highlights: the royal palaces of Rajasthan, the bubbly street life of Mumbai, the beaches of Goa.
- Unique Experiences: From taking a spiritual journey along the Ganges River in Varanasi to experiencing the vibrancy of the Holia Technicolor festival.
- Travel Tip: India is a vast country and you should plan your itinerary accordingly, so that you do not get overwhelmed with distances and cultural intensity.
India is a riot of colours and sounds, complete with chaotic vibrancy. From the snowcapped northern peaks of the Himalayas down to the southern tropical greenery, the spiritual depths combined with the cultural diversity of India are incomparable. The country comprises some of the world’s most famous landmarks, including the Taj Mahal; it offers a rich gastronomic tradition that varies from region to region.
5. Vietnam: A Blend of History and Natural Beauty
- Top Attractions: Buzzing Ho Chi Minh City, Serene Ha Long Bay, Lively Cultural Heritage
- Highlights: Hoi An Ancient Town, Sapa’s lush rice terraces, and bustling streets in Hanoi.
- Special Experiences: Mekong Delta boat tour, Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City.
- Travel Tip: Go to Vietnam for all food lovers. Pho, Banh Mi, and fresh spring rolls are not to be missed.
In Vietnam, tourists cruise the Mekong Delta, get down on their knees in ancient temples, or dodge motorbikes in Hanoi’s Old Quarterall with the smell of Pho. There is such a wide array of natural beauty within its borders, from limestone karsts to lush rice paddies.
6. Malaysia: Truly Asia
- Top Attractions include: the Twin Towers of Petronas, the Virgin beaches of Langkawi, and biodiverse Borneo
- Highlights: cultural melting pot, Cameron Highlands tea plantations abound, lively capital Kuala Lumpur.
- Special Experience: Explore the numerous temples and caves in Batu Caves and plunge into the crystal clear waters of Sipadan.
- Travel Tip: Malaysia provides a mix of luxury and budget options for any traveler.
Malaysia is a tapestry of ethnicities, frantic cities, teasloped hills, and island getaways a place where Penang serves as the cultural melting pot and the serene Perhentian Islands both soothe diverse appetites, from the interior jungles of Borneo to the urbane glow of KL.
7. The Republic of Korea: Dynamic Modernity Meets Traditional Roots
- Top Attractions: Lively Seoul, Jeju Island, Traditional Hanok Villages
- Highlights: Gyeongju Historic City, Lively areas in Seoul, Volcanic features of Jeju Island.
- Unique Experience: Visit a traditional Korean sauna, known as a jjimjilbang, or participate in a temple stay program.
- Travel Tip: This is South Korea, aka the country of fast internet and technology. So why not make full use of it by downloading helpful apps to guide your travels?
The contrasting elements of South Korea, from the hi-tech cityscape in Seoul to the volcanic landscapes of Jeju Island, can be captured with mere speed. The country is very well connected, showcasing a great combination of old and new. The country’s pop culture, the traditional Hanbok clothing, and the mouthwatering street food beg to be ticked off the to-do list for any traveler planning to visit the country.
8. Indonesia: The Lush Archipelago
- Best Attractions: Beautiful Bali, Ancient Temples, Komodo Dragons
- Highlights: Ubud, the cultural heart, beaches of Lombok; Sumatra’s wildlife.
- Unique Experiences Trekking to see orangutans in Sumatra or diving with rays in Raja Ampat.
- Travel Tip: Indonesia is spread out over the entire region. Just focus on the islands and divide the places according to some topics that interest you—beach, culture, wildlife, or adventures.
Indonesia is an archipelago that sprawls over a huge area, bringing with it a cocktail of incredible landscapes, pristine beaches, and a treasure trove of wildlife. Whether it is the allurement of Bali or the untamed wilds of Sumatra, it is a country that is as different as the islands that dot it. Its cultural and natural riches make it a must-visit destination for any traveller.
9. Philippines: The Pearl of the Orient Seas
- Top Attractions: Private beaches, underwater adventure, and warm hospitality
- The highlights include the limestone cliffs of Palawan, the vibrant city of Manila, and the white sands of Boracay.
- Unique Experience: Go swimming in Cebu with whale sharks, or take a tour to Bohol to see the Chocolate Hills.
- Travel Tip: Filipinos are very hospitable, so never hesitate to ask locals for recommendations or assistance in any way.
The Philippines is home to more than 7,000 islands, beckoning waters glinting under the sun, and beguiling landscapes successfully inviting one to plunge into a body of ocean paradise. From the urban rush of Manila to the calm allure of Palawan beach, the Philippines can offer just the right combination of adventure and respite.
10. Nepal: Birthplace of Buddha
- Top Attractions: Mount Everest, Lush Trekking Trails, Ancient Cities
- Highlight: Kathmandu Valley, historic; tranquil lakes at Pokhara; sacred city of Lumbini.
- Unique Experience: Hike to Everest Base Camp or go on a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park.
- Travel Tip: Nepala trekker’s paradise; prepare for unpredictable weather conditions and ensure that you have all necessary permits.
As the entrance to the Himalayas, Nepal is a dream destination for mountaineers. Besides pristine peaks, it also houses medieval cities and sacred sites steeped in spirituality. From exploring ancient stupas of Kathmandu to trekking through the range of Annapurna, it’s a different world outside one that perfectly blends nature’s beauty and significant depth of culture.
11. Sri Lanka: Teardrop of India
- The top attractions include: Ancient Sigiriya, Ceylon Tea Plantations, and welcoming homestays.
- Highlights: Galle is filled with colonial architecture, the sacred city of Kandy, and the wildlife of Yala National Park.
- Special Experience: Enjoy the scenery on the train ride from Kandy to Ella and/or explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura.
- Travel Tip: Sri Lanka is one of the most renowned countries for tea in the world. Visiting a plantation offers insight into production and a taste of the world-renowned Ceylon.
Small in size, Sri Lanka combines an equal proportion of history, culture, and nature. From the ruins of ancient kingdoms to colonial architecture in Galle, it charms at every turn. From the busy city of Colombo to a tranquil south coast beach, Sri Lanka is a destination for one-of-a-kind travel.
12. Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder
- Top Attractions: Graceful Angkor Wat, Bustling Markets, Pristine Islands
- Highlights: ancient temples in Angkor, the bustling city of Phnom Penh, and unspoiled beaches in Koh Rong.
- Unique Experiences: Viewing the moments of sunrise at Angkor Wat or enjoying their scheduled cruise on Tonle Sap Lake.
- Travel Tip: Cambodia has a complex history. For context on this area, a Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum visit in Phnom Penh will be so enriching.
Cambodia is a country of wonderland left with tales of the Khmer Empire whispering down Angkor Wat corridors, while its islands wait to be discovered. Intertwined with the great culture of Cambodia is natural scenery that is just perfect for combining culture and outdoor fun for visitors.
13. Laos: Land of a Million Elephants
- Top Attractions: Laidback Luang Prabang, life on the Mekong River, mysterious Plain of Jars.
- Highlights: the UNESCO-listed town of Luang Prabang, the karst mountains of Vang Vieng, the mysterious Plain of Jars.
- Unmatchable Experiences: Take a slow boat ride down the Mekong River or explore ancient temples at Wat Phu.
- Travel Tip: Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s most chilled countries; take your time, and soak in the slow pace of life.
Laos is the heart of Indochina, very much pulsing with cultural heritage and wrapped in such an atmosphere as to soothe the soul with its languid pace and mysticism. From the peaceful temples of Luang Prabang to the outdoorsy beauty of the Bolaven Plateau, Laos offers a tranquil and enriching travel experience.
14. Singapore: A CityState of the Future
- Top Attractions: Spectacular Gardens by the Bay, Vibrant Food Scene, and a CleanGreen Urban Environment.
- Highlights: Marina Bay Sentosa, cultural enclaves in Chinatown and Little India, Gardens by the Bay.
- Unique Experience: Savor dinner at the Hawker Centre for a truly Singapore gastronomic experience or take a walk through the many green spaces dotting the city.
- Travel Tip: Due to its small size, Singapore is packed with many attractions; utilize the efficient public transport system to get around with convenience.
Singapore is the archetype of urban perfection, with a compact exploration of Asian cultures set quite dramatically against a backdrop that lends as much to parklands as it does to skyscrapers. Clean and efficient, Singapore has no less a lust for good food, worldclass shopping, and a rich multiethnic heritage.
15. Mongolia: Land of the Eternal Blue Sky
- Top Attractions: The vast Gobi Desert, nomadic culture, untouched wilderness
- Highlights: include the historied capital of Ulaanbaatar, the rolling steppes of the countryside, and dramatic landscapes of the Gobi Desert.
- Special Experience: Overnight in a traditional ger yurt with a nomadic family, or visit the ancient ruins at Karakorum.
- Travel Tips: The weather in Mongolia can be extreme, and thus, one should be prepared for very hot summers, as well as freezing winters.
Landlocked Mongolia, from any other place than the empire of Genghis Khan himself, offers boundless horizons combined with unparalleled silence, into which one steps out to enter a world of nomadic people in ways little different from those lived by ancient ancestors. From sweeping deserts to roughly remote mountain ranges, Mongolia is a destination for adventure and solitude.
16. Bhutan: The Last Shangri-La Top Attractions:
- Top Attractions: Gross National Happiness, Imposing Dzongs, Untouched Scenery
- Highlights: The stunning Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), the cultural festivals (Tshechu), and the majestic Punakha Dzong.
- Unique Experience: Trek through the pristine valleys of the Himalayas or attend a traditional Bhutanese festival.
- Travel Tip: Bhutan limits tourist numbers; book well in advance and be prepared for a daily tourist fee that covers accommodation, meals, and a guide.
The Kingdom of Bhutan is famous for valuing happiness over economic indicators. Its breathtaking fortresses and untouched landscapes echo a commitment to cultural preservation. Bhutan’s unique approach to tourism ensures that its cultural and natural heritage remains pristine, offering travellers a glimpse into a truly unspoiled world.
17. Myanmar: The Golden Land
- Top Attractions: Thousands of Pagodas in Bagan, Unique Leg-Rowers of Inle Lake, Warm People
- Highlights: the ancient city of Bagan, the colonial architecture of Yangon, and the serene waters of Inle Lake.
- Unique Experience: Take a hot air balloon ride over Bagan’s pagodas or visit a local market on Inle Lake.
- Travel Tip: Myanmar is still developing its tourist infrastructure; be prepared for basic amenities in some areas.
Myanmar remains a place where the past is still palpably present. There’s a sense of timelessness as hot air balloons drift over Bagan or when you witness the leg-rowers on Inle Lake. The country’s rich history, coupled with its warm and welcoming people, makes it a rewarding destination for travelers.
The depth of humanity intermingles with the wonders of Earth, creating in each of these Asian jewels a tapestry rich in adventure, sprinkled with spirituality, and full of discovery. Whether it will be the electrifying pulse from a mega-city or the tranquil chant of a monastery, such diversity is the attestation to amaze, inspire, and transform anyone who traverses the lands. Pack your wanderlust and take off to the world’s largest and most vibrant continent.
