Best Places to Visit in Asia to Add to Your Bucket List

Asia

Updated On: November 08, 2023 by   Salma IhabSalma Ihab

Travel destinations in Asia are rich in culture and traditions, not to mention the variety of delicious food. Besides being the homeland of Bollywood and K-pop, Asia’s beauty lies in its diversity. From the various natural landscapes to the historical tourist attractions and the kindness of the locals in each country and region, there is not a dull minute to spend in Asia.

Asia offers the best of both worlds; whether you want to go on an adventure in its mesmerising nature or relax by the beach, the multicultural continent has it all. First, let’s get to know more about Asia. The continent is 30% land, and the population is estimated to be around 4.7 billion people, making Asians nearly 60% of the world’s population.

Asia has a wide variety of cultures, ethnic groups, government systems, and economies. Additionally, unlike any other continent, most countries have multiple first languages. As a result, Asia is well-known for its numerous languages, some of which are quite difficult to learn.

Asia

Let us first give some facts about the continent you will be visiting before we dive into Asia’s limitless travel destinations.

8 Interesting Facts About Asia

  1. Asia covers almost one-third of Earth’s surface.
  2. Mount Everest, known to be the highest mountain in the world, is found in Asia, spread across five countries.
  3. Turkey and Russia are both Asian countries that are also in Europe.
  4. There is this breathtaking island called Borneo, known to be the 3rd most important island in the world, and it happens to be in Asia.
  5. It is said that all major religions originated in Asia: Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam and Hinduism.
  6. Asian countries have very different climates, some are tropical, and others have very cold temperatures, like Siberia.
  7. Asia has a total of 49 countries.
  8. Asia is split into 6 regions:
    • Middle East Asia
    • Central Asia
    • North Asia
    • East Asia
    • South Asia
    • Southeast Asia

Enough facts about Asia; it’s time to get down to business. Let’s look at Asia’s top 12 best travel destinations, ranging from beach resorts to metropolises.

1. Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

Destinations in Asia

Home for the best Thai massages, you’ve guessed it right, we are talking about Thailand. The country that their people are known to be the friendliest, making it hard for you to leave the country. Thailand is known to be one of the best destinations in Asia for many reasons, but we can assure you that one of the reasons is its beautiful beaches.

Koh Phi Phi‘s vibrant and fun nightlife is well-known. Tonsai Beach has dozens of beach bars where you can dance the night away, restaurants where you can relax, and Tonsai Village, which has shops if you want to buy some souvenirs. For the lovebirds, if you are on your honeymoon, there are also smaller beaches to enjoy around the island. There is something for everyone on Koh Phi Phi.

Location

  • Phi Phi island is found in the Andaman Sea.

Best Time to Visit

  •  The best time to visit is during the months from November to April. The weather is great, and the possibility of it raining is less likely than at any other time of the year.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • It has 2 major islands: Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh
  • In Phi Phi Leh, you will find a great destination to visit—the Viking Cave. You get there by riding a long-tail boat, which is around a 30-minute ride. It is located at the bottom of a limestone cliff. The name was given because of the paintings found inside the cave.
  • In Phi Phi Don, you can enjoy a shark-watching tour. It is a great diving destination; just make sure your instructor is fully certified before having a dive. The island is famous for its outstanding dive sites: Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and the King Cruiser Wreck. Besides spending time exploring the underwater, the island is also well-known for its beaches and nightlife. The beaches are known for their clear, crystal water, fantastic tropical vegetation, and white sands.

2. Bali, Indonesia

Destinations in Asia

Indonesia has made it to Asia’s list of best travel destinations because of its exquisite natural beauty, including the famous active volcanoes. It is a country that everyone should visit at least once in their lives.

Surf’s up, everyone! Bali is known as a surfer’s paradise. The lovely Island of Gods, Bali, is known for its beautiful nature, from volcanoes to fresh rice fields you’ve never seen before. It is a place that definitely gives peace and serenity!

Location

  • Southeast Asia in the Indian and Pacific oceans. 

Best Time to Visit

  •  In May, June, and September

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • Today it is a stand-alone island, but centuries ago, it used to be connected to Java Island.
  • Bali is home to an active volcano called Mount Agung.
  • The island is full of temples to visit on day tours.
  • It also has a few cities worth heading to, like Ubud and Penida Island.
  • It is an amazing destination for everyone, families, honeymooners, friends, and solo travellers.

Places you can go for one-day trips

  • Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
  • Ulun Dani Beratan Temple
  • Waterbom Bali, a water park for all ages.

3. Tokyo, Japan

Destinations in Asia

When you hear the word Japan, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Perhaps a cherry blossom tree? Or something else, but they have the world’s best cherry blossom tree. But seriously, this is one of the best travel destinations in Asia because you will get to see advanced technology and city life, as well as try all of the best Japanese food, such as sushi, that you probably never had anything like elsewhere. 

Tokyo is a city full of variety, like the Hen na Hotel in Tokyo Ginza, the world’s first and only hotel run by a robot, to the street food that you will never get tired of eating every day. We cannot forget the impressive vending machines selling almost everything, even cakes! 

Location 

  • Found in Tokyo Bay, in the centre of Japan’s main island, Honshu.

Best Time to Visit

  • March, April, September, and November

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • Do you want a fun adventure full of adrenaline? Then you have to visit Tokyo Dome City.
  • In love with nature? Head to the Ueno Zoological Gardens, the Sunshine Aquarium, Tama Zoological Park, or even the Tokyo Sea Life Park.
  • If you want to relax, then go to the beach. Pick any island you wish, like Oshima Island or Niijima Island, and book a night there to relax by dipping your toes in the sand. 
  • You will also be able to do some water activities such as snorkelling or fishing and many more.

4. Singapore

Destinations in Asia

Singapore is one of the most populated cities in the world, but don’t worry; it isn’t actually very crowded. It has a large city airport with a waterfall. Yes, a whole waterfall in an airport, how unusual! After all, it is one of the best destinations in Asia.

Location

  • Island in Southeast Asia.

Best Time to Visit

  • Between December and June, although it is excellent all year round.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • It is a continent, country, and island.
  • You can visit the Gardens by the Bay if you love nature and, of course, mesmerise yourself with natural beauty in UNESCO World Heritage Site Singapore Botanic Gardens.
  • Want to swim in the biggest infinity pool? Then pack up and head to the Marina Bay Sands.
  • Want a wild adventure? Then the Universal Studios of Singapore is loaded with fun for all ages.
  • Fascinated by animals, both cute and unique? Visiting the Singapore Zoo for daytime and nighttime adventures at Androng Bird Park will give you the best time to connect with nature.

5. Maldives

Destinations in Asia

The honeymooners’ destination; yes, we are talking about the Maldives. The Maldives has over a thousand islands in the Indian Ocean and the most beautiful emerald waters you’ll ever see. Not to mention the stunning water bungalows that line the beach, it is without a doubt one of the best destinations in Asia.

Location

  • It is found in the Indian Ocean, South Asia.

Best Time to Visit

  • From December to April to avoid the rainy season.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • It comprises many small islands where the resorts are built.
  • It is a great honeymoon destination.
  • You can get to the Maldives using a seaboat or a seaplane, depending on how far the island is from the airport on the mainland.
  • You will enjoy their beaches, food, and water activities and have the best nightlife time.
  • You may even go island hopping and stay in different resorts, depending on how long your trip is.

6. Luang Prabang, Laos

Destinations in Asia

Laos is the land of a million elephants. It is well-known for its breathtaking scenery, tribal villages, and unfamiliar territory that people continue to discover even today. It is stunning and one of the best destinations in Asia, a place on Earth that you must see.

During your visit to Luang Prabang, you will see many monks on a daily basis. This ancient city is a location for so many Buddhist temples that you will lose count—a lovely destination for learning about different cultures.

Location

  • Northern Laos, in a mountainous region.

Best Time to Visit

  • From November to March.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • It is considered a half-island between Nam Khan and the Mekong River.
  • It is greatly known for its architecture and the heritage of art.
  • It has the oldest Buddhist temple called Wat Wisunarat or Wat Visoun.
  • Pak Ou Caves is a beautiful destination to include in your must-visit list if you are in Luang Prabang.
  •  It has two caves, Tham Ting, the lower cave, and Tham Theung, the upper cave. Make sure you grab a flashlight because only some light enters the caves, and you will need to find your way around the Buddha statues that are found all over the cave.
  • Are you up for mountain climbing? Then buckle up and head to Mount Phousi. It is a great place to see the sunrise and enjoy the gorgeous panoramic view of the city and the temples.

7. Kathmandu, Nepal

Destination in Asia

Nepal is home to the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, Lumbini. Expect to see a lot of Buddha statues around, so make sure to get one as a souvenir of a location you won’t regret going to.

Nepal’s capital is Kathmandu, a region with delicious food, culture, and kind people. In terms of food, expect to eat many momos, one of this diverse country’s most famous street foods. Momo is a dough ball stuffed with meat or vegetables and steamed, fried, or a combination of both. It is served with tomato chutney that you won’t have enough of its very delicious taste.

Location

  • In the Center of Nepal.

Best Time to Visit

  • From September to November.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • It is well known for its beautiful architecture and religious monuments.
  • The Garden of Dreams is a place that you cannot miss. It is a beautiful garden with gorgeous landscapes and architecture.
  • Want to go hiking? In Kathmandu, you will have the chance to visit Mount Everest Base Camp Trek.
  • Do you love birds? They have a wonderful bird-watching tour at Phulchoki.
  • Spend some time in Kathmandu Durbar Square and enjoy people-watching along with the city’s buildings.
  • Do you love Yoga? You are in for a treat; one of the beautiful yoga locations is the Himalayan Yoga Association in Nepal. You will have the chance to attend yoga classes and learn in-depth all about the practice.

8. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Destinations in Asia

It is known that the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur are a must-see; the 88-story structure is Malaysia’s 21st-century icon. This multicultural hub is a beautiful country with stunning architecture and buzzing nightlife.

Location

  • Found on the central west coast of Malaysia.

Best Time to Visit

  • From December to January and June to August.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • You can enjoy city life and do a lot of shopping if you’re on a budget, either in malls or at the central market.
  • You can book a private city tour.
  • You will find the world’s first Intelligent Garden City on a boat cruise on Putrajaya Tour.
  • If you love art, then the Batik Coloring Workshop is waiting for you.
  • For families, Legoland is a must-visit for your kids to have the time of their lives.
  • Visit the Lata Iskandar waterfall and indigenous village by booking a full-day tour at Cameron Highlands Nature Tour.

9. Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam

Destinations in Asia

The country of Pho, Vietnam, is one of Asia’s best travel destinations. Its beautiful beaches, amazing culture, and of course, delicious food, not to mention the welcoming Vietnamese people and how friendly they are toward any travellers, will seduce you to stay for longer.

Hạ Long Bay, in northeast Vietnam, is famous for its clear emerald waters and thousands of limestone cliffs islands topped by rainforests. The best thing to do is to try out some outdoor activities such as scuba diving, rock climbing, and hiking in the mountainous Cát Bà National Park.

Location

Best Time to Visit

  • During fall, from October to December.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • You can enjoy kayaking tours, cave tours, and an indulging cruise and spend the night on the boat.
  • Don’t want to spend a night on a boat? Do not worry; you can enjoy a day tour on a cruise, enjoy swimming, hiking, kayaking, and having luxurious lunch.
  • Up for a mesmerizing adventure? Then you must go to Sung Sot Cave, Dua Go Cave, or Tien Ong Cave; if you have time, try exploring all of them!

10. Mandalay, Myanmar

Destinations in Asia

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is famous for its magnificent Buddhist temples. Mandalay is ideal for those who want to learn about different religions and cultures. It is home to numerous pagodas, temples, monasteries, and other Buddhist institutions. Many pilgrims and believers visit Mandalay to see the city’s exquisite golden pagodas and brilliant Buddha sculptures.

Location

  • On Irrawaddy River.

Best Time to Visit

  • From October to January.

Fun facts and Attractions

  • Shwenandaw Monastery is a must-visit to enjoy unique architecture; it is all built from wood!
  • Do you enjoy learning about cultures? You must book a Cultural Heritage Day Tour to learn about the intertwined and mingled cultures of the country.
  • Mandalay Royal Palace is an unmissable attraction to visit when in the city.

11. Mount Fuji, Japan

Destinations in Asia

Japan is full of natural beauty, and one of the divinely-made attractions is undoubtedly Mount Fuji. This peak is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, and photos do not do it justice; you must see it for yourself.

Why should you go to Mount Fuji? Despite being the tallest mountain in Japan, known for its graceful cone shape, it is also the holy symbol of the country. Many temples and sacred sites are located around the sacred volcano.

Location

  • In the centre of Honshu.

Best Time to Visit

  • From Autumn to Winter.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • It is made up of 3 active volcanoes: the top is Fuji, the middle is Kofuji, and Komitake is at the bottom.
  • Around Mount Fuji are five stunning lakes that are a must-visit:
    • Lake Yamanakako, which has plenty of water sports.
    • Lake Kawaguchiko, where you can enjoy a tour of the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum.
    • Lake Saiko: “Saiko” means the best, and many have said that it is undoubtedly the best lake. You can enjoy visiting a bat cave and an ice cave called Kurosawa.
    • Lake Shojiko, where you can enjoy land activities such as hiking and fishing. This lake is known for Mt. Fuji’s upside-down reflection on the water.
    • Lake Motosuko is the deepest lake out of the five. You can camp, hike, and even ride horseback along the lake. To top it off, enjoy a glass-boat ride on a yellow cruise ship.

12. El Nido, The Philippines

Destinations in Asia

The Philippines is a land full of beautiful juicy fruits and an incredible amount of beautiful beaches. It is a natural wonderland that outdoor enthusiasts will not want to leave. Its municipality El Nido has white sand beaches and coral reefs. Prepare yourself to see stunningly clear water and large lagoons, where you would want to dive right in and spend the rest of your day.

Location

  • In Palawan City.

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter and Spring.

Fun Facts and Attractions

  • It is widely known for its white sandy beaches, mesmerizing lagoons, and crystal-clear water filled with marine life.
  • You must visit the Secret Lagoon, enjoy water sports, and wipe off the day’s stress.
  • Shimizu Island has to be on your bucket list; it is a great snorkelling destination because of its colourful and wide range of marine life.
  • The island was named after a scuba diver whose body was found there after getting lost during a scuba diving trip.

These places have unique attractions ranging from theme parks and zoos to aquariums, religious monuments, beaches, and many more to ensure all travellers have a good time. We did our best to give you a taste of each location, but trust us when we say you’re in for a treat. Begin planning and saving!

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