23 Best Places to Visit in Asia to visit in 2024

Asia is one of those places that will never cease to amaze me. It almost seems like the name is too simple for a country with such a variety of cultures, history, food, and personalities. If you’ve been intimidated by Asia, I implore you to visit. While many travelers think of the big names of Japan and China, there are so many other places to explore! I partnered with travel bloggers to continue my dream destinations series (be sure to check out the Europe, USA, Africa, Oceania, and South America destinations if you’re still looking for travel inspiration!). So in no particular order, here are 23 Best Destinations in Asia to visit.

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Goa, India

Goa is a well-known tourist destination in India known for its countless beaches. The beaches here are lively, with some having tons of beach shacks, clubs, cafés and visitors whereas others are pristine and completely untouched. The famous beaches here include Arambol beach, Palolem beach, and Anjuna beach. On the other hand, Cabo de Rama beach and Cola beach are off the tourist radar, a little hard to find but incredibly beautiful and highly recommended by locals.

While in Goa, apart from the beaches, it’s worth checking out the many Churches (Old Goa Church and Panjim Church are the most famous ones). You can even visit Chorao island which is a bird sanctuary. The capital city of Goa – Panaji has many things to offer including the old Latin quarters which is a colorful and photogenic neighborhood. You can easily spend at least 3 days in Goa, though most people end up staying here for a week or more. Now, since Goa is the most popular state in India and is a popular choice among both foreign and domestic travelers, it’s quite commercial.

There are innumerable places to stay here which include hostels, budget hotels and fabulous upscale resorts. Moreover, there are excellent cafés and restaurants at every step here. Zomato is a great website/app to check the latest trendy places to eat in Goa. All in all, it’s a great and inexpensive place for an incredible beach vacation for any budget.

Thanjavur, India

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu’s cultural capital, is located in the lush Cauvery delta and is recognized for its temples, arts, handicrafts, and fascinating history. It is known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu’ because of its extensive rice cultivation. Some of the best things to do in Thanjavur are: 

Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple or the Big Temple: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Chola architectural marvel. This spherical apex structure is said to be cut out from a single stone.

Saraswathi Mahal Library: The Nayak rulers built this library around the 16th-17th centuries, and it was later enhanced by the Maratha king Serforji II.

Royal Palace Museum: This palace, located to the north of the Brihadeeswarar Temple, is a huge cultural monument. It has a history dating back to the Thanjavur Nayaks, who ruled the region from the 16th to the 17th century.

And, while you’re visiting these magnificent sites, you have to take a break and stop by to eat at:

Sri Venkata Lodge: This café serves vegetarian meals and is said to be one of South films’ actors, Sivaji Ganeshan’s favourite places to eat in town. Do try out Puli Sadam, which is delicious tamarind rice!

Anbu Milk Bar: Set up roughly 40 years ago, it is a well-known shop that serves long lines of customers. Their most popular drinks are the frothy and decadent Bombay lassi (a drink made of yoghurt) and Almond milk, served with a dollop of cream on top. 

While in Thanjavur, you can stay at Svatma, a luxurious resort that is tranquil and peaceful but is also not too far away from major tourist attractions. 

Thanjavur Big Temple. Photo by Munni of All Trades.

Leh, Ladakh, India

Leh is the capital of the Ladakh region in north India at the foot of the Himalayas. Its location at a 3000-meter altitude surrounded by endless barren mountain ranges makes the charming small town one of the most extraordinary places on earth. It is where Tibetan Buddhism is the most authentically practiced. In contrast to other parts of India, Leh is scarcely populated, quiet, and clean, with most people being Tibetan Buddhists or Muslim immigrants from Kashmir. Apart from the summer month (June-September), harsh winter conditions prevail in Leh, which you should consider when you plan your trip. Leh is a perfect place to discover the rest of Ladakh, with monasteries clinging against the rock. Also, many people combine it with visiting Kashmir. 

Visit the ruins of the Leh Palace, the former royal palace of the Ladakhi kings. It looks more like a massive fortress decorated with wooden balconies.

The white-domed Buddhist Shanti Stupa is a must-see in Leh, especially during sunset or sunrise with stunning views of the valley. 

However, it is the landscape that makes Leh the most memorable.

The Tibetan kitchen is a cozy restaurant in the heart of Leh and one of the best places to try local cuisine. One famous Ladakhi food is Chutagi, a pasta-like dish with a rich vegetable-based sauce or Momos, boiled dumplings filled with minced meat, spinach, potato, cabbage, carrots, or onions.

Leh, India. Photo by Voice of Guides.

Kochi, India

Kochi is a beautiful city in the state of Kerala in South India. Kerala  is popularly called as ‘God’s own country’ & Kochi showcases that perfectly.

Kochi has a beautiful coastline with great beaches & a lot of history … But the backwaters are the distinguishing feature of  Kerala & they can be experienced in Kochi too.

Kochi is perfect for travelers interested in beaches, food & history. Buy some spices & sarees as memories of your travels. 

While in Kochi, you must tick off these experiences:

1.Backwaters from Kochi Kerala 

You can visit Vaikom backwaters to experience the maze of canals & lagoons that make Kerala backwaters famous.Book a houseboat,shikara or kayak for cruising them.

2. Heritage walk around Fort Kochi &  Chinese fishing nets.

Fort Kochi gives a peek into the city’s multi-cultural history with Dutch, French & Jew influences. Do check out the Chinese fishing nets in the area.Visit the spice market nearby to buy quality spices at very reasonable prices from here. 

3. Kathakali & Kalari show at Fort Kochi

Kathakali is the traditional dance of Kerala. Do reach the venue early to catch the elaborate & unique make-up session of the dancers. Kalaripayattu is the ancient art of sword fighting . Both are held in the same precinct.

Kochi is famous for its variety of seafood. Appam with Stew & Puttu with Kadala Curry should not be missed in the vegetarian fare. Do remember to have Sadya here- lot of types of vegetables with rice & assortments that’s served on a banana leaf. It’s typically eaten with hands- no spoons. BTH & Gokul Ottupura are famous for the sadyas. Taj Malabar & Avenue Regent are recommended for an enjoyable stay.

The Chinese fishing nets in Kochi. Photo by TheTravelingCA

Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-track adventure in Asia, then look no further than the state of Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo. Famous for its natural beauty, lush rainforests, unique cultures and incredible food, Sarawak is the perfect place for those seeking a different experience. 

Any visit to Sarawak must include at least one trip to a national park – amazingly, the area is actually home to 30 different conservation areas! One of the most famous is Gunung Mulu National Park, where you can explore some of the largest caves in the world, watch the incredible spectacle of three million bats flying out of a cave at dusk, and go jungle trekking and adventure caving.

If you love music, then plan your visit to Sarawak in July as this is when the annual Rainforest World Music Festival is held. Each year over 20,000 people attend this 3-day festival, which features incredible performances from musicians from all over the world, arts and crafts workshops, food bazaars and even meditation and wellness workshops. 

Don’t miss the chance to try Sarawak’s signature dishes, including Sarawak Laksa, a spicy coconut milk based noodle soup that Anthony Bourdain famously described as “the breakfast of the gods” and kek lapis, a brightly coloured layer cake. 

Most trips to Sarawak start from the state capital Kuching – for a comfortable stay head to The Ranee, a boutique hotel on Kuching’s waterfront that was rebuilt from two 19th century shophouses.  

Hunza Valley, Pakistan

One of the best places to visit in Asia in 2022 is undoubtedly the majestic, peaceful, and jaw-droppingly beautiful Hunza Valley. 

This large and remote valley (which is also a district) is in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan territory and is filled with friendly, welcoming people and landscapes that seem too good to be true.

I’ve spent months in this region and have found that there’s always more to explore. One thing you absolutely MUST do while in traveling Hunza is visit the remote Shimshal Valley, and check out the insane sunset view from Eagle’s Nest viewpoint in the village of Duikar.

The best place to eat in Hunza isn’t exactly what you’d expect, but it’s truly one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life, not just in Asia. 

The Yak Grill in Passu (home to the famous mountains known as the Passu Cones) cooks with yak and makes the best burgers ever, but they also have the best veggie options in the region too. 
Backpackers will love staying at the Passu Cathedral Inn in a traditional style room in Passu while travelers with more room in their budgets should definitely check out Mountain Story in Ali Abad.

Hunza Valley. Photo by International Detours.

Penang, Malaysia

Penang island on the northwestern side of peninsular Malaysia really is an unmissable place to visit in Asia. Not only its capital George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008 and offers one of Asia’s most famous street art trails, plenty of charming boutique accommodation, and many hip cafes and bistros. Also 833-metres-high Penang Hill — once the first Hill Station opened in Malaya by the British colonizers — and the cluster of peaks that surround it just earned the title of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in September 2021, and welcome keen hikers and nature lovers to walk kilometers of jungle paths thriving with rare animals like the Dusky Lef Monkey, Sunda Colugo and Slow Loris.

If you can’t get enough of nature, the Penang National Park, the country’s smallest, is perched on the island’s northwestern corner and has a few nice beaches, the most popular of which are Monkey Beach and Kerachut Beach.

George Town is certainly the place to go and stay for any first-timers: the Lebuh Chulia- Beach Street area brims with culture, street food, and great hotels. Try T

Penang. Photo by Kit Yeng Chan.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Vietnam

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park can be found in the beautiful mountains of Central Vietnam. It’s a hidden gem, not yet on the main Vietnam tourist trail. The scenery is stunning and within the National Park is the largest limestone cave system in the world. Phong Nha-Ke Bang has UNESCO world heritage status and a growing reputation as an adventure seekers paradise. You can join a caving expedition to a number of caves within the National Park including Hang Son Doong, the world’s largest cave. 

But you don’t have to be especially adventurous to enjoy visiting. The Phong Nha Cave is easy to access and it’s amazing! To reach the cave you take a scenic half-hour boat trip along the lovely Son River, then your boatman or woman will row you quietly through the cave. It’s a magical experience! The stalactites and stalagmites inside are lit up and their reflections shimmer in the still water. Dark Cave is also easy to visit and will astound you with its phenomenal size. Hiking, kayaking, and swimming are also popular in the area.

The Lakehouse is a great place to stay in Phong Nha. It has a convenient onsite restaurant and spacious bungalows right on the lake a few kilometres outside town.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang. Photo by Muy Linda Travels.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay is one of the most popular places to visit in South East Asia. It’s a place of exceptional natural beauty and a UNESCO World Heritage National Park off the coast of northern Vietnam.  Halong Bay is scattered with thousands of tiny, forested islands. Sheer limestone cliffs fall into the calm, emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. The scenery is stunning! Most of the islands are uninhabited and covered with dense jungle so the best way to see Halong Bay is by boat. You can sail on a traditional Chinese junk with colored sails and wooden decks.

On an overnight cruise, you’ll watch the sunrise and set over lovely Halong Bay, hike to some incredible lookout points, and visit limestone caves. Some cruises include kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, and cooking classes. An overnight cruise is enough to see Halong Bay but you can easily spend several days exploring nearby BaiTu Long Bay and Cat Ba Island. Most cruise packages provide meals, accommodation, and transfers from your hotel in Hanoi to the boat. And there are lots of cruises to choose from. I sailed with “La Fairy Sails”.Cruising on Halong Bay is one of the best experiences in Asia and a highlight of a trip to Vietnam.

Halong Bay, Vietnam. Photo by Muy Linda Travels.

Phuket, Thailand

Known for its stunning beaches and incredible nightlife, Phuket, Thailand should be on your list of places to visit in Asia in 2022.  Situated in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and one of the most famous.  Explore the northern parts of the island if you are seeking tranquil beaches or head to the south of the island if you are looking for more popular tourist attractions. Stay in Phuket for a few days or consider spending 7 days exploring the best of Phuket and southern Thailand.

From wandering the streets of Old Town to exploring the Naka Night Market, there is something in Phuket for everyone.  If you are shopping at any of the local markets, don’t forget to barter!  Take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to visit the Big Buddha in Karon and then check out Karon Beach.

Consider staying in Patong, which is close to the nightlife and provides a great home base to explore the rest of the island.  The Deevana Plaza Phuket is a four star hotel centrally located in Patong that features an incredible pool with a pool bar and a spa that offers amazing Thai massages! 

Coordinate with your hotel to arrange a taxi to take you to Wassa Homemade for a delicious meal.  Wassa Homemade is located at the top of a very steep hill and offers incredible views of Patong.  The restaurant serves tasty Thai dishes, smoothies and drinks. Plan to go around sunset so that you can watch the sunset of the coast of the island.

Phuket, Thailand. Photo by Roadmaps and Restaurants.

Tokyo, Japan

Japan is a mix of old traditions passed down generations, combined with cutting-edge modernization in every aspect of life, making it the perfect playground for travelers like me. No other country in the world combines this philosophy like Tokyo.

There are so many things to do in Tokyo that it can be overwhelming! From the Tokyo Tower that lights up the skyline to the unique vending machines around the city, big and small Tokyo entertains every visitor. A combination of old and new contrasts in the city as well. Senso-ji Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple. When visiting you can see the skyscrapers of the city not too far away. Be sure to discover some of the best places to eat in Tokyo for any budget!

For a more modern vibe, visit Akihabara – a geek’s paradise! From ground to the sky is covered in bright lights – trying to get you to come in for food, video games, arcades, or shopping! Go-kart your way through the city or enjoy taking in the sights and smells through walking. Public transportation is super easy to use as well. No matter what you decide to do in Tokyo, you’ll be glad you visited.

Tokyo Tower and Skyline. Photo by The Directionally Challenged Traveler.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto was my favorite city to visit in Japan – the history of the city radiates through every street, around every corner. I was excited to visit the “Instagrammable” places like the Aaryshiama Bamboo Forest (not really a forest, more like a lane) and the Fushimi Inari Shrine (which once you make it past the crowds at the entrance trying to take the perfect photo, you’ll actually be able to appreciate the shrine for its incredible beauty. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes – there are over 10,000 Inari shrines on the mountain. We got to this viewing point about 2/3 up the mountain just in time for sunset. It just goes to show that there is more to a city than a pretty picture. There are in fact plenty of things to do in Kyoto other than these two big places.

There are over 1,500 temples in the city of Kyoto, literally on every corner. Don’t be afraid to go down alleys to explore. To get around the city easily, you can rent a bike. There are bike paths throughout the city. Chances are you’ll see geishas and geishas-in-training in the city. Please be sure to ask before taking pictures of them, it’s a sign of respect. We also saw a lot of people renting kimonos for photos throughout the city. It’s seen as an appreciation for the culture, not appropriation (I didn’t feel comfortable with it still).

Read more: Ultimate Guide to Kyoto

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is one of the most vibrant cities in Asia with a fascinating, rich culture, and a huge variety of activities for every age. 

To dive deeper into the country’s culture, visit the Grand Palace and the nearby Wat Pho, two of the most beautiful decorated temple complexes with massive Buddha statues. Another unique attraction you can’t miss is the floating markets. There are a couple to choose from but the most colorful one is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. No matter if you are interested in purchasing a souvenir or want to eat your way through the city, you will be in the right place.

Talking about food, you can’t go wrong with all the delicious street food options. A fantastic area to try classic Thai food like Pad Thai or more exotic dishes like scorpions can be found in Chinatown. If you are looking for a more upscale (but still very affordable) experience, head to a rooftop restaurant and bar. For the most stunning views of Thailand’s capital, check out View Bangkok.

After a day full of unforgettable experiences, you don’t want to travel far to get your good night’s rest. The Khao San area is right in the heart of the city and is most popular for its street food markets and nightlife. Here you can find great cheap hostels, but also affordable, charming hotels like the Villa Phra Sumen Bangkok or the Old Capital Bike Inn.

Wat Pho. Photo by Traveling Found Love

Kho Phi Phi, Thailand

Kho Phi Phi (Phi Phi islands) is a group of Islands in Thailand, not far from Phuket. It can be easily reached by ferry. Like many destinations in South East Asia they cater well to backpackers. People speak English, there are many places where you can do your laundry and the tropical climate combined with palm trees and turquoise oceans makes for a great beach vacation spot.

Most tourists probably come to Phi Phi for nightlife. The beach is lined with clubs, bars and pubs. You can find everything from Thai boxing bars to shisha bars to dancing on the beach with live DJs. 

During the day it is a snorkeling and scuba diving paradise. You can see sea stars, blue sea stars, slugs, lobsters, clown fish (Nemo!), butterflyfish, and oh so many colorful species of fish and corals. 

For the best views of car free Kho Phi Phi, take the hike to the viewpoints. Bring plenty of water and don’t be shy on the sunscreen that day. There are several viewpoints along the trail, most visitors just go to the first or second one. For more details read about how to spend day away from the crowds on Kho Phi Phi.

Kho Phi Phi, Thailand. Photo by Christin has Fernweh.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Known as the gateway to Cambodia’s famed Angkor Wat temple complex, Siem Reap is the quintessential Southeast Asian town. Of course, the most popular thing to do in the area is to visit the famed temple ruins themselves. Hire a private tuk tuk driver and spend a couple of days channeling your inner Tomb Raider and whizzing from temple to temple. In addition to Angkor Wat itself, don’t miss Ta Prohm, Bayon and Beng Malea. Beng Malea is about 60 kilometers from Siem Reap and is very popular (for good reason). Visit around noon when most of the tour buses head back to town.

As for dining, there are tons of great options in and around Pub Street (both western and traditional Cambodian). For something truly special, make a reservation at SPOONS, a restaurant serving upscale Cambodian dishes that doubles as a training site for local hospitality students. After dinner, stop at one of the many streetside spas for a foot massage before calling it a night. If you fall in the budget or slackpacking category, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better lodging option than Lub D, but if you’re looking for something more luxury, consider Jaya House River Park or Mulberry Hotel.

Siem Reap, Cambodia. Photo by Up and Away Magazine

Sagada, Philippines

Sagada is a little town 6 hours north of Manila in Mountain Province.The town is quite small and everything is quite close to each other, so it is easy to move from one place to another, even with backpacks, if you didn’t book accommodation in advance.

Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe is an excellent place to stay. Enjoy their complimentary breakfast and free wifi. The Hanging Coffins in Echo Valley and the Church of St Mary the Virgin are within easy walking distance.

The Echo Valley, a picturesque place of century-old coffins and beautiful limestone cliffs, got its name from the echoes created when one shouts towards the cliffs, is a good introductory walk to Sagada, and a must for anyone visiting the town for the first time. It is a nice walk taking in some pleasant scenery, including, of course, the famous hanging coffins, Sagada’s unusual burial tradition.

Follow this by exploring a nearby Cave and Underground River. The “subterranean river” can be followed for around 100 metres through the cave before it exits. If you choose to explore, make sure you have a torch. Be ready to get wet as you need to wade through water in places.

If you’re looking for a place to eat with good food and beautiful views, a walkout to Gaia Cafe and Crafts, a vegetarian restaurant, near the famous Sumaging Cave, which you can explore before or after your meal, is really recommended.

The Hanging Coffines in Echo Valley. Photo by Silver Backpacker

Tagaytay, Philippines

If you have 2 weeks in the Philippines but don’t want to spend a day in Manila, you can head to Tagaytay instead, which is 2 hours south of the capital Manila. It’s known for its cooler temperature, the misty atmosphere from constant fog, and the world’s smallest active Volcano.

When you see Taal Volcano, no one would even guess that it’s a volcano at all. The island is surrounded by a mixture of fresh and salt water, and the flat surface and the hidden crate make the spot look like a flattened island. Before it erupted in 2020 and 2021, visitors can trek the crater as a day trip. At the moment, travellers can only sign up for a boat tour that goes around the volcano instead of setting foot on its ground.

Apart from Taal, Tagaytay is one of the few places near Metro Manila where the city is covered in pine trees and open areas. Visit Picnic Grove where you can enjoy a view of the volcano for just a $1 entrance fee, and pay extra for rope cycling and riding the ferries wheel. You can also head to the amusement park called Skyranch known for ziplining, incredible views of Taal, and plenty of rides for children and those young at heart.

Finally, you cannot leave Tagaytay without dining at a local restaurant and trying out the native dish Bulalo. It’s a beef soup cooked with vegetables and eaten with rice. 

You can get here by taking a bus from PITX bus station with a bus sign “Tagaytay/Olivarez/Mendez”. The ticket cost is between $2-$3 depending on the bus company. The bus goes every once every hour from 4 AM to 6 AM and 9 PM to 11 PM, but every 30 minutes from 7 AM to 8 PM.

Tagaytay, Philippines. Photo by The Two Week Traveller.

Taipei, Taiwan

Brimming with history and bustling with creative energy, Taipei, Taiwan’s capital city, is a dream destination in Asia. Now is the perfect time to go: Taipei recently made it onto Lonely Planet’s ‘Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2022’ list, a sure sign of its popularity for the year to come.

Taipei is efficient, easy to navigate, and budget-friendly, making it suitable for travelers of all types. With world-class museums, pedestrian shopping precincts, a legendary street food scene and rugged nature right on its doorstep, there is no shortage of things to keep you busy.

Start by visiting a few of Taipei’s major landmarks: The Kai-shek Memorial Hall, National Palace Museum and Lungshan Temple, before walking the streets of Zhongzheng and Ximen districts to take in the two sides of the city, old and new. Ride the underground to Beitou to soak in the natural thermal hot springs, or take a side trip to the iconic Jiufen Old Street. For something different, Keelung City is an alternative day trip from Taipei and boasts a beautiful harbor and legendary food market.

Come sundown, it’s time to don your comfy pants and hit the Taipei night markets. Raohe, Shi Lin, and Ximending are a popular trio, each with their own street food delicacies: Stinky tofu, fried chicken, and bao buns.

If eating is your number one priority (understandable), Amba Taipei Ximending is conveniently located near one of the best night markets and within walking distance from some of the city’s best restaurants.

Photo by Lisanto 李奕良 on Unsplash

Kampong Glam, Singapore

One of the best places to visit in Asia in 2022 must be Singapore. Singapore is the perfect destination for anyone who loves architecture and history,  a mash of old-time charm with an ultra-modern urban scene, great food, and a mix of cultures. One of our favorite neighborhoods in Singapore is the flamboyant Kampong Glam.

Kampong Glam is situated not far from the city center but it has a totally different vibe. Start your day in Kampong Glam by visiting the majestic Masjid Sultan whose golden dome is one of the symbols of this area. There are many souvenirs and carpet shops in the vicinity of the mosque, as well as small cafes and restaurants.

Another fun thing to do is check some of the incredible street art in Kampong Glam. Some of our favorite murals can be found at Sultan Arts Village, a small compound with some galleries and shops but there are many hidden gems in the form of street art all around Kampong Glam, including at the trendy Haji Lane. Haji Lane is another favorite spot in Kampong Glam. You’ll find here beautiful murals, great restaurants and bars, fashionable boutiques and unique shops. Make sure to stop at Limaa café for a healthy breakfast or lunch. They serve beautiful and delicious smoothie bowls, sandwiches, homemade pasta, and more. 

Masjid Sultan Arab Neighborhood. Photo by Chasing Lenscapes.

Luang Prabang, Laos

If offbeat destinations are something that you have in mind, Luang Prabang, Laos must catch your eye. I am surprised that it does not feature in most people’s lists but I highly recommend giving it a chance, also because it thrives on sustainability.

Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Town and has everything to make a great vacation. Luang Prabang attractions include adventure sports, spiritual tourism, culture, food, and nature tourism. The town has many temples that you must visit. Being the center of Buddhism, the Buddhist monks participate in an alms giving ceremony, wherein they receive their daily food from the locals who line up every day. It is a culturally astounding experience.

A few kilometers away lies one of the most beautiful waterfalls of the country. Kuang SI Waterfalls are aqua coloured waterfalls that provide a refreshing relief as visitors can swim in the pools, trek to the top of the waterfall, hang out at the falls, or visit the bear rescue centre. 

Like all Asian countries, one of the must-do things includes a stroll in the Luang Prabang night market. The market consists of local artisans selling souvenirs, handicrafts, tie & dye fabrics, Laotian coffee, and alcohol. While on the stroll, a healthy, delicious, and soul-satisfying plate of freshly-cooked and piping-hot coconut pancakes served on a banana-leaf plate is the answer to the much-required sugar rush after shopping through Luang Prabang Night Market.

Luang Prabang has great options for stay and most hotels and resorts follow sustainable practices. My recommendation would be The Luang Say Residence, a property that has French influence and charm.

Some of the monks in Luang Prabang. Photo by Explore with EcoKats.

Shanghai, China

Shanghai – China’s most populated city where east meets west and skyscrapers reach the clouds. As China looks towards a 2022 travel boom, kickstarted by hosting the Winter Olympics in February, Shanghai will once again see its streets filled with tourists from all around the world. 

No trip to this sprawling city should be complete without trying the Shanghai speciality of xiaolongbao. These steamed dumplings are typically filled with crab and/or pork soup, which when eaten provide an explosion of flavour! A great place – popular with locals – to get your hands on xiaolongbao is Jia Jia Tang Bao, located just north of People’s Park. This small eatery shuts when it’s sold out for the day, so go early to avoid missing out!

Other must-visit attractions include The Bund – for breath-taking views of the skyscrapers in the Lujiazui district – as well as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, for 360-degree views of the city and the unique glass floor viewing platform. For more cultural activities, pay a visit to Jade Buddha Temple and Jing’an Temple. For more ideas, read this Shanghai 5-day itinerary.

Be sure to stay in the heart of the city to experience everything Shanghai has to offer – the Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World is conveniently located next to People’s Park and the pedestrianized Nanjing Road shopping street.

Shanghai. Photo by Zoe Goes Places.

Chengdu, China

Chengdu is a fantastic city to visit in China. While most famous for its pandas and spicy cuisine, Chengdu offers visitors so much more.

After seeing the cute pandas (of course, this is a must), wander around Jinli Ancient Street or Kuan Zhai Alley. These picturesque pedestrian-only areas are chockablock with street food stalls, souvenir shops, Sichuan opera venues,  and restored wooden buildings.

The Wuhou Temple, at the entrance to Jinli Street, is one of the most beautiful places in the city. You can spend a few hours here wandering between the winding red walls that will lead you to bonsai gardens, temples and shrines.

Relaxing at a teahouse is another highlight of visiting Chengdu. The teahouses in People’s Park are a popular place to spend an hour or two to relax, drink tea and even get your ears cleaned or a vigorous shoulder massage.

The food in Chengdu alone is a reason to visit. Sichuan cuisine is the spiciest but also the most popular in all of China.  Spicy hotpot is something that you absolutely must eat when you’re in Chengdu. The cheap and colourful Ma lù biān biān restaurant (吗路边边) is a great place to dip into the hotpot for first-timers.

Tianfu Square is the best area for tourists as it’s central with excellent public transportation. The Lavande Hotel is a solid mid-range option with an ideal location. 

Pandas in Chengdu. Photo by Museum of Wander.

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

While Mongolia should always be on traveler’s bucket lists, it’s especially true for 2023. The country itself has plenty to offer in terms of diverse landscapes, nomads, and animal encounters, but it’s the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, that’s gaining more recognition recently as one of the best places to visit in Mongolia.

Travelers looking for a peaceful escape in (and near) the city will enjoy listening to the morning chants at Gandantegchinlen Monastery or making the day trip to see the stone carvings at Aglag Monastery, which also happens to be one of the most beautiful, scenic drives from Ulaanbaatar.

While the world’s largest equestrian statue also lies 1.5 hours by car from Ulaanbaatar in Terelj National Park, the city’s most famous khan can also be seen guarding the Parliament Building in Sukhbaatar Square.

The newly opened Chinggis Khan Museum isn’t to be missed either with eight floors of exhibitions. The National MuseumZanabazar Fine Arts Museum, and Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery round out some of the best museums in the city.

Finally, at the end of a long day of exploring, pulling up a stool at the bar at La Rosa or Bitsy & Co., or grabbing a bite to eat on the outside patio at Veranda, round out the best things to do in Ulaanbaatar, one of 2023’s dream destinations in Asia.

Mongolia is one of the best destinations to visit in Asia.
A temple in Mongolia. Photo by Meanwhile in Mongolia.

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Best Places to Visit in Asia
Best Places to Visit in Asia
Best Places to Visit in Asia

7 thoughts on “23 Best Places to Visit in Asia to visit in 2024”

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