You guys, Asia just hits differently than anywhere else I’ve been. The first time I stood at the edge of Zhangjiajie’s massive pillars in China, watching the morning mist dance between those giant rocks, I literally had to pinch myself. It looked like Avatar came to life right in front of me!
After exploring this incredible continent over the past few years, I’ve found some of the most beautiful places in Asia that seriously live up to the hype. From watching the sun light up Angkor Wat like pure gold to seeing Mount Fuji peek through the clouds, these spots make me want to book a flight back right now. Ready to pack your bags? Here are 13 places that’ll make your jaw drop!
Best Places to Visit in Asia
Looking for the coolest things to do in Asia? Explore the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, Cambodia, cruise through the stunning Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, and immerse yourself in the cultural beauty of Kyoto, Japan. Discover the breathtaking beaches of Palawan, Philippines, and marvel at the cliffside monastery of Bhutan’s Tiger’s Nest. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or adventure, here are the top attractions to visit in Asia.
1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat still blows my mind every time I see photos from friends visiting – and honestly, the sunrise experience is way more magical than Instagram makes it look. You’ll need to buy your ticket online now at the official Angkor Enterprise site, and it’s $37 for a one-day pass in 2025. The ticket office opens at 4:30 AM specifically for sunrise chasers, which is pretty smart planning.
I visited during the dry season in February, and the weather was perfect – not too hot yet, and you actually get those misty mornings that make the whole complex look ethereal. The main temple complex is huge (we’re talking 400 acres), so don’t try to rush it. Book at least three days if you can swing it, because there are over 1,000 temples in the archaeological park.
Pro tip that locals told me: arrive by 5 AM for sunrise at the reflection pools – it takes about 20 minutes to walk there from the entrance. The Ta Prohm temple (yeah, the Tomb Raider one) is absolutely worth the detour, and Bayon with those giant stone faces is pretty incredible too. Skip the crowds by visiting Banteay Srei in the afternoon when everyone else is temple-tired.
2. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Let me be real with you – Ha Long Bay cruises aren’t cheap anymore, but they’re still totally worth it. Budget cruises start around $100-150 per person for two days and one night, while luxury options can hit $400-600. I actually splurged on a two-night cruise with Paradise Cruises and it was incredible.
The best time to go is definitely March through April or October through November. I went in October and the weather was perfect – not too hot, barely any rain, and way fewer crowds than peak season. Most cruises depart around 12:30 PM from either Tuan Chau Port or Halong International Port, so plan accordingly.
What surprised me most was how different Lan Ha Bay felt compared to the main Ha Long route. If you want fewer crowds and more pristine spots, definitely ask about itineraries that include Lan Ha Bay. The kayaking through Luon Cave was honestly one of those moments where you just stop and think “holy shit, this is real.”
Don’t skip the cooking demo on board – Vietnamese cuisine is way more complex than I expected. And if you’re prone to seasickness, bring meds because even calm waters can get choppy.
- Read next: 11 Most Beautiful Places in Vietnam
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3. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto during cherry blossom season is absolutely bonkers crowded, but I totally get why. The 2025 forecast puts full bloom around April 7th, and let me tell you – it’s worth dealing with the crowds. Temple entry fees are pretty reasonable: Kiyomizu-dera charges 400 yen, Nijo Castle is 620 yen, and many temples like Philosopher’s Path are completely free.
I made the mistake of only visiting during peak season my first time, but going in late November for fall colors was actually way better. Fewer tourists, gorgeous red maples, and you can actually take photos without random people in the background. Arashiyama is stunning year-round, but the bamboo grove gets crazy packed by 10 AM.
My favorite discovery was Ninnaji Temple – they have these late-blooming Omuro cherry trees that are only about 2-3 meters tall, so you get amazing close-up photos. Entry is 500 yen during cherry season and totally worth it. Fushimi Inari with those thousands of torii gates is iconic, but start early or stay late to avoid the Instagram crowds.
The best advice I got from locals: wake up early, eat breakfast near temples before 8 AM, and you’ll beat 90% of the tourist buses.
- Read next: Top 8 Airlines for the Best Flights To Japan
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4. Palawan, Philippines
El Nido is still the crown jewel of Palawan, and honestly, the island hopping tours are better than ever. Tour A costs 1,200 pesos (about $21) and includes Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. Just heads up – there’s now a 200 peso environmental fee per person for each lagoon on top of the 400 peso eco-tourism development fee.
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I did the Tour A + Tour C combo over two days and it was perfect. Hidden Beach and Secret Beach on Tour C are absolutely insane – you literally swim through narrow passages between limestone cliffs to access these secluded coves. The water is so clear it doesn’t look real.
November through May is definitely the sweet spot for weather. I went in March and had zero rain, perfect 28°C temperatures, and calm seas ideal for kayaking. Coron is also incredible if you have time – the wreck diving there is some of the best in Southeast Asia.
Budget around $35 per day for island hopping tours including lunch, but definitely book with reputable operators like Sea Quest or through Viator – they include hotel pickup and all the fees. Stay in El Nido town for easy access to tour departures, but Nacpan Beach is perfect if you want something quieter.
- Read next: 12 Most Beautiful Places in the Philippines
5. Bhutan’s Tiger’s Nest
Tiger’s Nest Monastery is hands-down one of the most incredible hikes I’ve ever done, and I say that as someone who usually avoids serious hiking. The trail to Taktsang Monastery takes about 2-3 hours up through pine forests, and the views just keep getting more ridiculous the higher you climb.
What I didn’t expect was how spiritual the whole experience feels, even if you’re not particularly religious. There’s something about hiking to a monastery that’s literally clinging to a cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley that makes you appreciate human determination. The prayer flags everywhere add this amazing pop of color against the mountains.
October through December is perfect weather – clear skies, moderate temperatures around 15-20°C, and incredible mountain visibility. I stayed at Zhiwa Ling Heritage which has traditional Bhutanese architecture and was actually really comfortable. The monastery itself doesn’t allow cameras inside, which initially bummed me out, but honestly made the experience more meaningful.
Pro tip: there’s a cafeteria halfway up the trail with decent food and the best views for photos of the monastery. Start early because afternoon clouds can roll in and block your shots. Also, bring layers – it gets chilly at altitude even when it’s sunny.
6. Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan is absolutely magical, and the hot air balloon experience is every bit as incredible as it looks online. Balloon rides cost around $320-400 per person during peak season (November to February), but watching sunrise over 2,000 ancient temples from 1,000 feet up is totally worth the splurge.
I explored the temple complex by e-bike, which was actually perfect. You can rent them for about $5-8 per day and cover way more ground than on foot. Shwesandaw Pagoda has the best sunset views, but Old Bagan has the most impressive temple concentration. Many temples are still being restored after the 2016 earthquake, so some areas might be off-limits.
The weather during the dry season (November through February) is ideal – sunny days around 25-28°C and cool evenings. I stayed at Aureum Palace which had great temple views and decent amenities. The local food scene in New Bagan was surprisingly good too.
Don’t try to see everything in one day – I spent four days and still felt like I could have used more time. Each temple has its own character, and wandering off the main tourist routes led to some incredible discoveries. Just remember to dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) when entering temple grounds.
7. Maldives
Maldives overwater villas are expensive as hell, but there are actually ways to do it without going completely broke. Budget water villas start around $300-500 per night during off-season (May to October), while luxury spots can hit $1,000-2,000+ per night. I stayed at The Standard Huruvalhi and it was amazing without totally destroying my bank account.
The dry season (November to April) has the best weather, but honestly, the wet season isn’t as bad as people make it sound. Rain showers are usually short and intense, then it’s back to sunshine. Plus, you get way better prices and fewer crowds. Many resorts offer free upgrades during low season too.
Swimming with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay was absolutely incredible – these gentle giants are massive and completely unbothered by snorkelers. Most resorts include snorkeling gear, but bring an underwater camera because the marine life is insane. I saw reef sharks, sea turtles, and schools of tropical fish right off my villa deck.
All-inclusive packages actually make sense here since everything is expensive and you’re stuck on one island. The sunset dolphin cruises are touristy but actually really good. Book direct with resorts for better rates than going through booking sites, and consider using hotel points if you have them – this is where they’re most valuable.
8. Gyeongju, South Korea
Gyeongju is basically an open-air museum, and it’s way less crowded than Seoul but just as fascinating. Bulguksa Temple (300 won entry) is stunning with those ancient stone pagodas, and the nearby Seokguram Grotto has this incredible Buddha statue overlooking the East Sea. The bus connections between sites are actually pretty good.
I visited during cherry blossom season in April and it was gorgeous, but honestly, October for fall colors might be even better. The Tumuli Park with those grass-covered royal tombs is weirdly beautiful – they look like perfect green hills scattered around the city. Gyeongju National Museum is definitely worth a few hours to understand what you’re looking at.
Anapji Pond at sunset is magical when they turn on the illuminations and the palace buildings reflect in the water. It’s free and probably the most photogenic spot in the city. I stayed at Gyeongju Hilton which was comfortable but definitely splurged – there are good guesthouses in the city center for way less.
The city is totally walkable, but renting a bike makes sense if you want to cover all the scattered historical sites. Korean temple food is incredible too – way more flavorful than I expected. Don’t miss trying the local specialties near Bulguksa Temple.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in South Korea
9. Ladakh, India
Ladakh is like being on another planet – the landscapes are so surreal they don’t look real. Pangong Tso Lake changes colors throughout the day from deep blue to turquoise to almost silver, and it’s completely mesmerizing. The drive there is intense but incredible, crossing Changla Pass at over 5,300 meters.
June through September is literally the only time you can visit unless you want to deal with closed roads and freezing temperatures. I went in July and even then it was chilly at night. The Grand Dragon Ladakh was perfect for acclimatization – good oxygen levels and comfortable rooms. You absolutely need at least 2-3 days to adjust to the altitude before doing any serious activities.
Leh Palace gives you amazing views over the town and Indus Valley, and it’s free to explore. The monasteries like Thiksey and Hemis are incredible – these ancient buildings just perched on impossible cliff faces with prayer flags everywhere. The drive to Nubra Valley through Khardung La Pass (world’s highest motorable road at 5,359m) is both terrifying and amazing.
Budget around $50-100 per day including accommodation, food, and local transport. The food is hearty – lots of momos, thukpa, and butter tea which you actually need at that altitude. Bring serious sun protection because the UV is intense at altitude.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in India
10. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is still incredible despite being way more crowded than it used to be. Ubud is perfect for the cultural experience – rice terraces, temples, yoga retreats, and amazing food. Tanah Lot Temple at sunset is touristy but genuinely beautiful when the waves crash against the temple on its rock outcrop.
The dry season (April to October) is definitely best, but even the wet season isn’t that bad – just afternoon thunderstorms that cool everything down. I stayed at Four Seasons Sayan in Ubud and it was incredible – perched over a river valley with the most amazing infinity pool. But honestly, there are great mid-range options everywhere.
Uluwatu has the best sunset views on the island, and the kecak fire dance performances are actually really good, not just tourist shows. The beaches down the cliffs are gorgeous but watch out for the monkeys – they’re aggressive little thieves. Kuta Beach is great for surfing but pretty hectic with vendors.
Don’t miss the local warungs (small restaurants) – the nasi goreng and gado-gado are incredible and cost like $2-3. Mount Batur sunrise hike is worth doing if you’re into that, but book with a reputable guide. Traffic in southern Bali is absolutely insane, so build extra time into your schedule or you’ll miss everything.
11. Petra, Jordan
Petra is every bit as spectacular as you’d imagine, but way bigger than I expected. The walk through the Siq to the Treasury is incredible – this narrow gorge that suddenly opens up to reveal that famous carved facade. Entry is $50 for a one-day pass, $55 for two days, which is worth it because you need at least two days to see the major sites properly.
March to May and September to November have the best weather – not too hot for all that walking. I went in April and temperatures were perfect during the day but chilly at night. The hike up to the Monastery is tough (about 800 rock-cut steps) but absolutely worth it – it’s even more impressive than the Treasury and way less crowded.
Petra by Night happens Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday and costs extra, but walking through the Siq lit by 1,500 candles is pretty magical. I stayed at Mövenpick Resort Petra right at the entrance which was convenient but pricey. There are good budget options in Wadi Musa town too.
Bring good walking shoes, lots of water, and sun protection – you’ll be walking on uneven stone surfaces for hours. The Royal Tombs are incredible and often overlooked by day-trippers. Don’t rush it – this place has been here for 2,000 years, it’s worth taking your time.
12. Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Samarkand completely blew me away – Registan Square is hands-down one of the most beautiful architectural ensembles I’ve ever seen. Those three madrasas covered in turquoise tiles and intricate mosaics are just ridiculous. Entry to the square is about $2, and you can spend hours just walking around taking photos.
April to May and September to November have perfect weather – warm days, cool nights, and clear skies. I stayed at Hotel Malika Prime in the old town, which was basic but clean and walkable to everything. Shah-i-Zinda necropolis is absolutely incredible – this avenue of mausoleums with some of the most intricate tilework you’ll ever see.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque is massive and impressive, though a lot of it is reconstruction. The bazaar nearby is great for buying traditional crafts and trying local food. Uzbek plov (pilaf) is incredible, and the bread from the traditional ovens is amazing. Don’t miss the Ulugh Beg Observatory – this guy was doing serious astronomy in 1420.
The whole city is very walkable, and locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Very few Western tourists make it here, so you’ll get genuine curiosity and hospitality. Budget around $30-50 per day including accommodation, food, and sightseeing. It’s incredibly affordable and totally underrated.
- Read Next: 7 Affordable Asian Destinations to Fly To
13. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
Zhangjiajie is basically the real-life Avatar mountains, and it’s even more incredible in person. The Bailong Elevator (world’s tallest outdoor elevator) costs about $15 and takes you 326 meters up a cliff face in 2 minutes – it’s terrifying and amazing. Yuanjiajie area has the famous Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and is totally worth the hype.
The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge is optional unless you really love heights – it’s $25 to walk across a 430-meter glass bridge spanning a deep gorge. I did it and immediately regretted it, but the views are incredible if you can handle the fear factor.
March to May and September to November have the best weather and visibility. I went in April and had perfect clear days to see the rock pillars. The cable cars and chairlifts make everything accessible, but bring good walking shoes because there’s still plenty of hiking between viewpoints.
Plan at least three full days – there are multiple scenic areas and it’s huge. I stayed in Zhangjiajie city which has decent hotels and restaurants. The local Tujia minority culture is fascinating, and their traditional performances are actually really good. Don’t try to see everything in one rushed day – this place deserves time to appreciate the incredible geology and scenery.
- Read next: 12 Most Beautiful Places in China To Visit
