Asia has been tipped to see a spike in tourism over the coming years. Compared to Europe and the Americas, the continent to the far east is cheaper. But while a haven for backpackers, it also offers luxury escapes and wild adventures, too. Together with colourful food, ancient traditions, and paradise islands, Asia is a treasure trove of adventure for holidaymakers.
With over half of the world’s population, the continent is a huge area within which to find your dream getaway. To help you narrow the search, here are our top recommendations for trending Asia destinations.
Beach worshippers holidaying India will likely make Goa their Asia destination of choice, but for everything else, there is Rajasthan. Neighbouring India’s capital, many tourists pass through Rajasthan State as they complete India’s Golden Triangle: New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, the latter of which is the architecturally impressive “Pink City” where holidaymakers can enjoy being treated like royalty among old forts and palaces. The state is home to India’s most romantic city, Udaipur, and the superb sandstone Jaisalmer, which rises out of the desert like something out of Aladdin. Ranthambore National Park offers a chance to get up-close-and-personal with India’s wildlife, while the Shekhawati Region is a free open-air gallery for art aficionados.
Nohkalikai Falls, courtesy of Sujan Bandyopadhyay
India isn’t just busy cities and paradise beaches; it has a wealth of natural, jungle beauty, too. Meghalaya is most popular for the man-made living root bridges which have been created by the native Khasi tribe, but this region, found high in the clouds, offers many more surprises. Ecotourists will want to stay in Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia, where they can enjoy the Sky View vista of the tree-covered Bangladesh border. Later, they can row canoes down the emerald Umngot River, marvel at ancient monoliths, or take a tour through the Mawphlang Sacred Forest. This is just scratching the surface of what Meghalaya has to offer. Just remember, before you book your trip, it is the wettest place on Earth, so pack a raincoat!
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Galle Fort, Sri Lanka, courtesy of James Mason-Hudson
Despite Sri Lanka’s small size, it somehow hosts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of these is the 16th-century coastal city of Galle, which has some of the most picturesque sunsets and gentle strolls that a holiday can buy. For beautiful weather and blissful relaxation in a small city with an impressive history, Galle is an ideal stay.
Bentota, courtesy of Vincent van Zeijst
Unawatana is probably the most popular beach choice for tourists visiting Sri Lanka. But as more learn about this once-tranquil spot, it is becoming more crowded every year. Fortunately, there are lots of other paradise beaches across the small country, and Bentota is one of them. The relaxing tide means it excellent for swimmers who want to enjoy the warm water in peace. Meanwhile, snorkellers will delight in spying the active wildlife beneath the surface. It is also close to the luxury Barberyn Reef Ayurveda Resort, which is popular among holidaymakers seeking a holistic getaway. Somewhere they can use the meditation and yoga classes and clean sea air to heal their mind, body, and spirit.
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Chiang Mai is a popular starting point for many beginning a tour of Thailand. Unfortunately, this means most pass through it too quickly, when it fully deserves a more thorough exploration. The Old City is a charming portal into the past, while the temples upon Doi-Suthep Mountain are as spiritually significant as they are beautiful. Chiang Mai hosts numerous markets during the day and live-music street events in the evenings. And despite being a city, it is a great place to relax, where you can enjoy some of the country’s best massages while overlooking tree-covered valleys.
Koh Phi Phi and Phuket are paradise beach getaways. And if you want an Asia destination where you can party on the sand, few places are better. However, with fame comes popularity, and both beachfronts have become jaded with tourism. For those looking to escape the crowds and to enjoy a more natural, relaxing experience, the nearby island of Koh Lanta remains relatively untouched and the friendly locals are eager to welcome you.
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The picturesque seaside city of Bodrum on Turkey’s western coast is the perfect midway gateway into both Turkey and Greece. While nothing remains of the Mausoleum of Halikarnassus, a Wonder of the Ancient World, the city is full of other ancient ruins, castles, and museums. Yet, it is also a luxury getaway for sailors preparing to cruise the azure-blue coast and sea to Greece. With warm but comfortable weather, white-washed buildings, and delicious food, it’s not hard to see why Bodrum is considered one of the most romantic getaway destinations in the world.
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No trip to Vietnam is complete without visiting Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City. Sadly, all can be crowded and chaotic places to visit. Nha Trang is a lesser known Asia destination where visitors can enjoy all the thrills and spills of a city, ancient ruins of Vietnam’s long history, and the country’s best scuba diving and sailing spots, without encountering the large crowds of other foreign tourists. However, its attractive beaches make it a popular spot for other Vietnamese holidaymakers, so don’t expect total seclusion.
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