Asia Travel Guide

Explore Asia with this helpful Asia Travel Guide and fall in love with its exotic culture, sun-kissed beaches, lush green forests, diverse wildlife, and hearted people!

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ASIAN COUNTRIES EXPLORED

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ASIAN UNESCO SITES VISITED

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ASIA NATIONAL PARKS

Experience the wonders of Asia

With an aura of intrigue, adventure, spirituality, and solace expanding over its massive and diverse landscape, Asia is one of the continents that hold a special place in a traveler's bucket list. The snow-capped ranges of Mount Everest, the sunkissed coastal lines, the enchanting climate, the bustling metropolises, and the marvels of its picturesquely lush terrains, grasslands, and forests, are other chief attractions of Asia. 

Stretching from the Eastern Mediterranean sea to the Pacific Ocean in the West, Asia is the largest continent with 49 countries and 41 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A third of the world's population resides in Asia, making it one of the densely populated continents. 

There are a plethora of national parks in Asia intending to preserve wildlife and our ecosystem. Some of the official national parks in Asia are Fuji Hakone Izu National Park (Japan), Chitwan National Park (Nepal), Goreme National Park (Turkey), Ranthambore National Park (India), Koh Sok National Park (Thailand), and Guilin-Lijiang National Park (China).

Sorting down the list of places to visit when you travel to Asia can be a strenuous job. Explore this helpful Asia travel guide and learn more about this amazing continent, that offers the best Asian food and some of the best beaches in the world! Find the best time to visit, things to know before you travel to Asia, and some of the best things to do while you are visiting Asia, a land of wonders!

Featured Asia Destinations

Popular countries to visit in Asia by region

Nusa Penida Indonesia

Southeast Asia

The best Southeast Asian countries to visit are Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The Tea Plantations of Malaysia, the many rice fieldsBali, the city of Bangkokparadise islands, Batad in the Philippines, and Inle Lake in Myanmar are some of the places to visit in East Asian Countries. These countries are worth visiting for the adventure, nightlife, temples, sublime coastal line, and other scenic locations they offer. Other countries are Brunei, East Timor, Laos, and Singapore.

Hong Kong thing to do: Victoria Peak

East Asia

The most popular East Asian countries to visit are China, Hong Kong, and Japan. Other countries in East Asia are North Korea, South Korea, Macau, Taiwan, and Mongolia. Some of the best places to visit are Kyoto, bustling Tokyo, the Great Wall of China, Hong Kong Island, and Victoria Peak.

Visit Nepal in South Asia

South Asia

The best countries to visit in South Asia are India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan, Tibet, Nepal, and Pakistan. Afghanistan and Bangladesh are other countries located in South Asia. The Taj Mahal, The Himalayas, Taktsang Palphug Monastery, and Sigiriya Fortress are some destinations you can add to your list while visiting South Asia. They are famous for their colonial architecture, Buddhist ruins, coral islands, and other religious shrines.

North Asia Travel: Northern Siberia

North Asia

While traveling in North Asia, the area is mostly part of the Russian regions east of the Ural Mountains: Ural, Siberia, and the Russian Far East, but the northern parts of Kazakhstan (Central Asia) and Mongolia (East Asia) are also sometimes related to North Asia. Amongst them, Russia is the largest country and one of the hubs of tourism. The Urals and Belukha mountains in Russia, Korgalzhyn and Burabay lakes, the Kyzylarai mountains in Northern Kazakhstan, and the Siberian Great Taiga Wilderness of Northern Mongolia are some of the dominating tourist sites in Northern Asia. The region is mostly known for its epic train rides, snow-capped mountains, rich wildlife, and many freshwater lakes, such as Khuvsgul Lake National Park.

Central Asia Travel: Kyrgyzstan

Central Asia

Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan are some of the best countries to visit in Central Asia. Samarkand, Khorog, Kabul, Herat, and Ashgabat are some fascinating places to visit in Central Asia. Tourism is not high in Central Asian countries compared to the other parts. These countries are famous for their scenic beauty and ancient culture.

Middle East Travel: Abu Dhabi UAE

West Asia

Bahrain, Iran, Oman, Cyprus, Qatar, Lebanon, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey are some of the best countries to visit in West Asia. Manama, Wabi Shab, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Wahiba Sands, Salalah, Istanbul, Pamukkale, and Bierut are a few places worth visiting in West Asian countries. They are known for their immense expanse of deserts, ancient culture, and hospitality. In total 20 countries are located fully or partly in Western Asia, out of which some are (also) part of The Middle East and the Arab world. Other countries are Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Lebanon, and Yemen.

Best time to visit Asia: weather and climate

Best time to visit Asia

It is not easy to specify the exact time to visit Asia as a whole due to its vast geographical expanse. Climate and weather vary according to the differences in the regions. The best time to visit Asian countries is during the dry (March to June) and cold (December to February) seasons. While planning your trip, try to plan according to the country and region you are visiting. For instance, you can visit Cambodia anytime during the year, and it is best to visit Indonesia either between January to March or June to September. Explore Asia by country, to learn more about the best time to visit specific places in Asia, such as the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, and Hong Kong.

Things to know before you travel to Asia

Is it safe to travel to Asia?

Most Asian countries are safe to visit

Most parts of Asia are safe to visit and I felt safe in every Asian country I've visited. However, you may confront delays, cancellations, scams, thieves, and other such problems in most parts of Asia. You have to take care of yourself and your valuables like money, credit or debit cards, gadgets, and bags while traveling. Some of these precautions can help you while in Asia. Try to avoid walking on isolated roads and streets at night: in Flores, someone tried to rob our handbag. Carrying a money belt is helpful to avoid being the prey of bumps and grabs as well as pickpockets. Try to split your money and keep them in different places. Store expensive items in the locker of your hotel or hostel. While traveling on local buses or metros, you can have your bag in front of you. Always follow local rules and respect them as offending the natives can, at times, cause 

What is the Currency in Asia?

Currency in Asia

Though many countries in Asia accept the US dollar, it is always safe to keep the local currency as cash in your hand. Some of the countries in Asia that take the US dollar are Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam. You must know about the exchange rates as it will help you keep track of the money spent. Another essential thing regarding currency is to always carry your debit or credit card in Asia. E-wallets for payments are another great way of making transactions while traveling. Though most ATMs in Asia accept foreign cards, the withdrawal charges can be high. It is always better to withdraw a bulk amount based on the requirements or visit an exchange office. Having backup currency with you is necessary as in rural areas, online or card transactions are not always possible.

Tipping in Asia

Tipping in Asia is encouraged in most places

Tipping is encouraged in Asia. However, in some countries, the natives consider it impolite. In China, Singapore, and Malaysia, people don't give tips in local shops and restaurants. But, in western restaurants and luxury hotels, you can provide around 10% of the bill as a tip. Even in high-end restaurants in Singapore, it is better to tip no more than 10% of the bill. In many Asian countries, there is a service charge of 10-15%. In such places, tipping is not necessary. However, in some countries like Vietnam and Thailand, service charges are not collected. So, it is essential to give a 10% tip. In these countries, you can also tip in dollars.

Responsible Travel and Tourism in Asia

Sustainable Tourism in Asia

It is pertinent to ensure that we consider future generations while traveling. Sustainable tourism is a way of traveling where you care for the ecosystem and resources. You can travel responsibly by bringing some changes by relying on shuttle buses, trains, or metros for traveling from one place to another. Opting out of laundry services is also a way to travel sustainably. Overtourism in Asia is a significant issue. From 2005 onwards, Bali has been implementing sustainable tourism measures. Vietnam is another country that focuses on green tourism. You can always travel sustainably by opting for eco-friendly tour operators and accommodations. You can always participate in eco-friendly programs like Angkor Wat Marathon.

Required vaccinations for traveling in Asia

Vaccinations to be taken while traveling to Asia

Vaccinations for Asia differ across countries. The WHO and CDC provide a list of vaccinations that one has to take before traveling to Asia. Getting vaccinations can act as a great preventive measure. In most parts of Asia, travelers are often affected by Yellow Fever and Cholera. Other vaccinations to be taken are for Measles, Hepatitis, and Typhoid.

Do I need a Visa for traveling to Asia?

Visa while traveling to Asia

Many countries in Asia provide on-arrival Visas and e-Visas. The need for a visa while visiting Asian countries depends on two factors. They rely on your nationality and the duration of your trip. Several countries in Asia allow tourists to travel visa-free if they are planning for a short-term visit (15 to 30 days). India, Cambodia, and Vietnam offer e-visa options for travelers. In countries like China and Japan, a visa is mandatory regardless of your nationality. It is always best to cross-check with the official websites of the countries before planning your trip.

Things to do in Asia to cross off your Asia bucket list

Batad Rice Terraces of the Ifugao in Northern Luzon, Philippines

Batad Rice Terraces, Philippines

Located in the mountain ranges of Cordillera in the northern Philippines, Batad Rice Terrace is one of the UNESCO sites in Asia. It is part of five clusters of lush green mountains and rice terraces, which include Bangaan, Mayoyao, Hungduan, and Nagacadan Rice Terraces as well. It is a product of the Ifugao Ethnic group and therefore also called The Ifugao Rice Terraces. The amphitheater-shaped terraces of Batad are situated near Cambulo village and are known for their natural stairway to heaven. The best time to visit the Rice Terraces of Batad is either between April and May or October and November.

El Nido Palawan, Philippines

The Lagoons of El Nido (Palawan)

El-Nido often referred to as a tropical paradise of the Philippines, has several beaches, lagoons, and spots for adventures. Palawan is one of 1700 islands with sites of shipwreck, crystal clear lagoons, underground ruins, and Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park, which is yet another UNESCO's world heritage site in the Philippines. The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry months, which is between November and May.

Bangkok Thailand

Experience the Best of Bangkok

While touring Thailand, it is essential to go on a city trip to Bangkok. Consider visiting Wat Pho, Wat Arun, the floating markets, and Bangkok's China Town. Wat Pho or the temple of the Reclined Buddha is located right behind the temple of Emerald Buddha. You can buy a bowl of coins before entering the temple and drop each coin in the 108 bowls in the temple. Floating markets are yet another attraction in Bangkok. Some of them are, Damnoen Saduak floating market, the Amphawa floating market, the Khlong Lat Mayom, etc. These markets have lively boats moving about selling fruit and other food items. There are many things to do in Bangkok, including its bustling nightlife with night markets and fancy rooftop bars. Also, don't forget to add the Grand Palace to your Bangkok itinerary.

Big Buddha Lantau Island Kong Kong

Big Buddha, Hong Kong

Big Buddha or the Tian Tan Buddha is the second-largest outdoor seated bronze Buddha. Located on Lantau Island, it is at a ten-minute walking distance from Ngong Ping Village. The statue is on the peak of Mount Muk Yue, and it is seated in the South, facing Beijing. You would have to climb 268 steps to reach the Big Buddha. Along the way, there is an exhibition of the valuables of Buddha also.

Asia Travel: Temples of Bali Indonesia

Enchanting Bali and its temples

Bali is known for its varied landscape, mountainous volcanoes, and sandy beaches. It is an Indonesian island popular for its resorts and adventure sports. Some of the cities worth visiting in Bali are Candidasa, Denpasar, Sanur (famous for its sea resorts), Ubud (known for its terrace paddies, and culture). If you are someone interested in watersports, you can go Scuba diving in Tulamben. For surfing, Kuta, Legian, and Canggu are the best regions. You can also visit Mount Agung, which is a volcano, and the cliffside Uluwatu Temple is a religious spot worth visiting in Bali.

Bali also has surrounded Islands, that are known predominantly for their lifestyle, culture, and scenic beauty. Nusa Lembongan is an island known for having no traffic, as four-wheelers are not permitted. It has thick mangrove forests and a variety of aquamarine life. Nusa Ceningan is less known and is the favorite of people who love adventure. The 12m high jumping point and its blue lagoon are the chief attractions.

Padar Island Komodo Flores

Flores Island, Indonesia

There are many places worth visiting on Flores Island. Kelimutu lakes are three crater lakes inside the mountains. The waters of these lakes sparkle in blue, green, and red color. Labuan Bajo is at the entrance of Komodo National Park. Belaraghi village and Bajawa are great spots for experiencing the local culture in Flores Island. 

Malaysia Tea Plantations

Admire the Tea Plantations of Malaysia

There are many tea plantations in Malaysia. BOH or Bohea tea plantation, located 203 Km's away from Kuala Lumpur, is known for its production of the finest quality tea in Malaysia. Cameron tea plantation is the second largest tea plantation in Malaysia and is famous for its aromatic tea in the Cameron Highlands. Located 185 Km away from Kaula Lumpur, Gaharu Tea Valley is known for its production of organic farming and its picturesque views.