As the largest continent in the world and home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations, there is no shortage of exciting places to visit in Asia.
Whether you want to relax on Thailand’s white, sandy beaches, see exotic animals in their natural habitat in India’s national parks, or witness the rich Eastern culture and spirituality you’ve heard other travelers rave about, visiting Asia is sure to be an amazing and life changing adventure.
From the Taj Mahal to Mount Everest to Halong Bay, whatever draws you to Asia, one thing is certain. Your trip will feature many once-in-a-lifetime experiences and allow you to tick many things off your Asia bucket list. Asia is also where you’ll find the most authentic and affordable yoga teacher training abroad.
As one of the safest and cheapest places to travel in the world, many destinations in Asia are also popular with backpackers but still offer a great value holiday for anyone with a taste for adventure. Volunteering in Asia is also an enriching way to connect with the friendly locals and give something back.
With so many great options, deciding where to visit in Asia can be a challenge. So to help you out, I’m sharing the best places to visit in Asia based on popularity, traveler ratings, and my personal experience.
The 10 Best Countries To Visit In Asia
Here are ten of the best and most visited places in Asia to add to your bucket list.
- Thailand
- Indonesia
- The Maldives
- Japan
- India
- Vietnam
- China
- Cambodia
- Sri Lanka
- Malaysia
Thailand
From its turquoise waters and warm climate to lush jungle and historic temples, Thailand is, by far, one of the most popular countries to visit in Southeast Asia.
The country is vast and diverse. In northern Thailand, you can explore picturesque cities and towns such as Chiang Mai and Pai, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and serene temples.
Meanwhile, down south, Phuket is popular tourist destination located in the Andaman Sea with numerous gorgeous islands close by while Koh Phangan is popular with backpackers for the full moon party and also home to many incredible yoga retreats.
Bangkok, the vibrant capital city, is also worth visiting for a few days. Experience its bustling nightlife, savor the cheap yet incredible Thai cuisine at local markets, or simply observe the excitement.
With so many amazing places to visit in Thailand, it’s hard to know how to fit them all into one trip. This is the perfect itinerary for 2 weeks in Thailand or if you’ve got more time check out the ultimate Thailand backpacking route.
Indonesia
Indonesia is best known for the bustling tourist island of Bali, full of lush jungles, rice paddies, waterfalls, temples and blissful yoga retreats. However, Indonesia has many other places to visit that offer a more authentic experience than Bali.
Many visitors enjoy island hopping around the Gili islands. The largest, Gili Trawangan, is known for its vibrant nightlife, while Gili Air is a renowned diving spot. Then next door is Lombok, which is much less touristy and boosts many untouched beautiful beaches.
Another spot not to miss in Indonesia is the island of Java, home to the capital Jakarta but most travellers make a beeline for the cultured historic city of Yogyakarta and the Buddhist temple of Borobudur, which is the largest of its kind and a UNESCO world heritage site.
The Maldives
The Maldives is famed for its picture-perfect white sand beaches and turquoise waters. It offers the iconic experience of staying in a luxury resort or overwater villa on one of the many tiny islands and atolls of the archipelago.
The Maldives is a fab part of Asia to go if you want to spend a few days relaxing, swimming, , sunbathing and seeing some of the best beaches in the world.
While these paradise islands have a reputation for being home to some of the best private island luxury resorts in the world it’s also possible to visit the Maldives on a budget if you stay in guesthouses on the local islands.
Japan
Most people who visit Japan head straight to Tokyo, a fascinating, futuristic city and the largest city in the world by area! You don’t have to be a science geek to appreciate this unique, high-tech, and lively city, and with so much entertainment and attractions on offer here, you will never get bored.
However, there is more to Japan than contemporary cities like Tokyo. The iconic snow-capped peak Mount Fuji is a must-visit, being the 7th highest island mountain on earth. You shouldn’t miss the former capital city, Kyoto, either. As one of the most beautiful cities in all the Asian nations, you’ll be mesmerized by the colorful gardens, peaceful Shinto shrines like the Golden Pavilion, and traditional wooden houses.
Plus, as the second safest country in Asia, Japan is a fantastic place for solo and women travelers to explore, however it’s not the cheapest.
India
India is not just the birthplace of yoga and THE country to find your inner self. It also has some of the world’s most famous historic monuments, like the Taj Mahal and the Golden Temple. India has something for everyone and is not just one of the cheapest countries to visit in Asia, but the whole world.
History buffs will love Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, and its iconic pastel-colored buildings, forts and palaces. Yogi’s flock to Rishikesh to do their yoga teacher training in India, wildlife lovers can try to spot a tiger in Ranthambore National Park, while beach bums should head to Goa and Kerala to experience India’s more relaxed side.
You will find endless delicious local cuisine including mouthwatering spicy food wherever you go in India, though the flavors vary from region to region. Many people in India also speak English which makes it easy to connect with the locals.
India is such a huge and diverse country but you can see all the highlights in one trip if you follow my epic India backpacking route.
China
China is the largest country in Asia and home to one of the most famous natural wonders and, of course, the Great Wall of China. While less than 10% of the original wall remains intact, there are a few sections you can still walk today; the nearest one from Beijing is just 45 miles.
The vibrant city of Beijing is most known for its famous palace complex, The Forbidden City. Other significant places to visit include Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven.
Cambodia
The most famous city in Cambodia is, by far, Siem Reap, which is the gateway to the largest religious monument worldwide, Angkor Wat. This vast complex has over 70 ancient temples and takes multiple days to explore fully.
Aside from the ancient ruins in Siem Reap, visit the floating village on Tonle Sap Lake and check out the undeveloped islands like Koh Rong and Koh Ta Tiev, which are peaceful alternatives to Thailand’s touristy islands. Cambodia really stole my heart and is one of my favourite places in the world.
Sri Lanka
If you love natural beauty and incredible wildlife, you will adore the island country of Sri Lanka. Lying in the Indian Ocean, just off the south coast of India, this small island has plenty of tourist attractions and unique places to visit.
You will find pristine beaches, great surf and yoga retreats and a peaceful ambiance here, perfect for those seeking solitude. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides through the jungles, mountains and tea plantations.
Sri Lanka also has a rich history dating back to the 3rd century. Thus, you will find many archaeological sites and monuments in the cities and towns including Buddhist stupas and temples. Read these articles for offbeat destinations and more on the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Vietnam
From the crowded but atmospheric streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, the ancient town of Hoi An and the mighty Mekong River, there is plenty to see and experience in Vietnam.
One of my favourite all time travel experiences happened when I got lost in Vietnam and was taken in my the kindness of strangers.
Whether you visit for the spectacular scenery, the fascinating history or the vibrant street life don’t miss your chance to try delicious local food like Banh mi, Pho, and Banh Xeo.
Malaysia
Malaysia is known for its multi cultural cities, pleasant temperature, diverse scenery and night markets. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, is one of the fastest growing cities in Asia, with many exciting attractions like the Petronas Twin Towers, the Petaling Street flea market, and the limestone Batu Caves.
Malaysia also offers tropical islands, tea plantations and charming historic towns like Penang and Malacca. Much of Borneo is also part of Malaysia where you can explore untouched rainforests and visit an orangutang sanctuary.
Malaysia is a seriously underrated country with so much to offer but is still a lot less touristy than neighbouring Thailand. Check out my Malaysia itinerary to plan an epic trip.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Asia
So, which of these best places to visit in Asia will you choose? If you have the time (and money), why not explore a few countries in one trip?
For example, many people heading to Southeast Asia will check out Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, as traveling between each country is easy and relatively cheap. If you want to join a like minded group there are some fun Southeast Asia backpacking tours too.
Or, if you have your heart set on India, why not schedule a few days in Sri Lanka and the Maldives too?
Wherever you choose, life is unlikely to be the same again after you have experienced the beauty and excitement of traveling in Asia!
So many places, so little time? For more travel inspiration check out my other blog posts:
