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Explore Asia – A Spellbinding Travel Guide Across Cultures & Landscapes

Asia Tours, Tickets & Experiences

Discover the wonders of Asia — a continent where ancient traditions blend with modern marvels, offering something for every traveler. Book unforgettable cultural experiences, bucket-list tours, and hidden gem adventures across Asia. Book Asia Tours, Tickets & Experiences

Intro to Explore Asia

Start planning your journey with our complete Asia Travel Guide — a vast, mesmerizing continent of contrasts, from the sacred peaks of the Himalayas to the coral gardens of the Philippines, and from the neon buzz of Tokyo to the timeless charm of rural Laos.

Asia is a traveler’s wonderland — endlessly rich in culture, history, food, and landscapes. Whether you’re dreaming of spiritual treks, beach escapes, food pilgrimages, or megacity exploration, this guide covers it all.

Continent: Asia
Area: ~44.58 million km²
Population: ~4.8 billion (2024)
Density: ~108 people/km²
Capital: N/A (Multiple major centers: Beijing, Tokyo, New Delhi)
Regions/Subregions: East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, Western Asia
Language(s): Hundreds; most spoken include Mandarin, Hindi, Arabic, Russian, Japanese
Currency: Multiple (e.g., Chinese Yuan, Indian Rupee, Japanese Yen, Indonesian Rupiah)
Time Zone(s): GMT+2 to GMT+12
Airports: PEK (Beijing), HND (Tokyo), DEL (New Delhi), DXB (Dubai), SIN (Singapore), ICN (Seoul), BKK (Bangkok)
Climate: Varies—tropical (Southeast Asia), arid (Middle East), temperate (East Asia), continental (Central Asia)
Known For: Ancient civilizations, cuisine diversity, mega-cities, sacred sites, Himalayan peaks, tropical beaches, Silk Road history

Asia is made up of over 45 countries, each with its own visa rules.
Some countries offer visa-free access or eVisa for certain nationalities (e.g., Japan, South Korea, Thailand).
Others may require advance visas (e.g., India, China, Saudi Arabia).
Always consult the official immigration websites of each country before traveling.
Stay limits typically range from 15 to 90 days depending on destination and passport

Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Rabies (for rural travel), Japanese Encephalitis (in tropical areas), Cholera (if needed)
Reference: WHO – International Travel Health | CDC Traveler’s Health
Malaria risk: Southeast Asia, parts of India and Pakistan
Hospitals: Major cities like Bangkok, Seoul, Tokyo, and Singapore have world-class medical facilities. Rural access may be limited.

Varies greatly by country. Some regions (e.g., parts of Myanmar, Afghanistan, Syria) may have Level 3 or 4 alerts due to conflict or instability.
Check your government’s official advisory:
US State Department – Asia Travel
UK FCDO – Asia Advice
Specific zones (e.g., Kashmir, Gaza border) may have restricted access or heightened caution levels.

Vary by country and religion; common types include:
Lunar New Year (China, Korea, Vietnam – January/February)
Diwali (India – October/November)
Eid al-Fitr (Middle East, Indonesia, Malaysia – dates vary)
Golden Week (Japan – late April/early May)
Songkran/Water Festival (Thailand, Laos, Myanmar – mid-April)

Currency and practices differ by nation:
Credit cards widely accepted in cities, cash preferred in rural areas
ATMs are common in urban areas; notify your bank before traveling
Tipping: Not customary in Japan/Korea; expected in India/Southeast Asia
Duty-free rules: Typically 1–2 liters alcohol, 200 cigarettes; vary by country

Major Hubs:
Singapore – Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
China – Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Japan – Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND)
United Arab Emirates – Dubai International Airport (DXB)
India – Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi (DEL)
Thailand – Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok (BKK)
South Korea – Incheon International Airport (ICN)
Indonesia – Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Jakarta (CGK)
Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
Qatar – Hamad International Airport, Doha (DOH)
See individual country guides for more airport-specific information.

Asia offers diverse transport modes:
High-speed rail: Japan (Shinkansen), China, South Korea
Tuk-tuks & scooters: Common in Southeast Asia
Ride-shares: Grab, Gojek, DiDi operate across major cities
Driving: Right-side in most, but left-side in India, Japan, Thailand
IDP required for foreign drivers in many countries
Watch for unlicensed taxis and transport scams at airports

eSIM and SIM cards widely available at airports
4G/5G coverage excellent in urban areas (Japan, Korea, Singapore)
Public Wi-Fi found in hotels, cafes, and malls — but may be limited in rural zones
Use VPNs in censored countries (e.g., China, Iran, Turkmenistan)

Dress modestly in conservative countries (e.g., Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan)
Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
Public displays of affection may be frowned upon
LGBTQ+ safety varies: safe in Taiwan, Thailand; less so in Gulf states
Observe religious holidays and customs respectfully

Emergency Numbers (generalized by country):
Police: 100–112
Ambulance: 102–999
Travel with insurance. Use our trusted affiliate partner:
Travel Insurance – Ekta
Locate embassies via your country’s foreign affairs department

Asia spans all climate zones:
Tropical: Southeast Asia (hot & humid, monsoons from May–Oct)
Temperate: Japan, Korea, China – four seasons
Desert: Middle East (hot, dry summers)
Mountainous: Nepal, Bhutan – snow and alpine cold
For live forecasts and seasonal trends:
MeteoBlue – Asia Weather

Asia by Region – Where to Go

Asia is often divided into five primary travel regions, each offering distinct experiences:

Southeast Asia

Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi.
Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City.
Indonesia: Bali, Java, Komodo, Lombok.
Philippines: Palawan, Boracay, Cebu, Siargao.
Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Borneo.
Cambodia: Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, Kampot.
Laos: Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Pakse.
Myanmar: Bagan, Yangon, Inle Lake, Mandalay.
Singapore: Marina Bay, Sentosa, Chinatown.
Brunei: Bandar Seri Begawan, Ulu Temburong.

East Asia

China: Beijing, Shanghai, Guilin, Xi’an.
Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hokkaido.
South Korea: Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island.
Taiwan: Taipei, Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake.
Hong Kong: Victoria Peak, Kowloon, Lantau Island.
Macau: Cotai Strip, Taipa, Old Town.

South Asia

India: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Kerala, Goa.
Sri Lanka: Sigiriya, Ella, Galle, Colombo.
Nepal: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Everest Base Camp.
Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, Punakha.
Maldives: Male, South Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll.
Bangladesh: Dhaka, Sundarbans, Sylhet.
Pakistan: Lahore, Hunza Valley, Islamabad.
Afghanistan: Kabul, Bamiyan, Herat (security considerations apply).

Central Asia

Uzbekistan: Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva.
Kazakhstan: Almaty, Astana, Charyn Canyon.
Kyrgyzstan: Bishkek, Issyk-Kul, Karakol.
Tajikistan: Dushanbe, Pamir Highway.
Turkmenistan: Ashgabat, Darvaza Gas Crater.

Western Asia (Middle East)

Yemen: Socotra (limited access due to conflict).
United Arab Emirates: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain.
Israel: Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Dead Sea.
Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman.
Saudi Arabia: Riyadh, Al-Ula, Jeddah.
Qatar: Doha, Al Wakrah.
Oman: Muscat, Nizwa, Wahiba Sands.
Iran: Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz.
Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale.
Lebanon: Beirut, Byblos, Baalbek.
Armenia: Yerevan, Lake Sevan, Tatev.
Georgia: Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Batumi.
Azerbaijan: Baku, Sheki, Gobustan.
Iraq: Baghdad, Erbil, Babylon (security restrictions apply).

Top Places to Visit in Asia

Asia is overflowing with bucket-list destinations, from ancient capitals to remote natural marvels. Here are some of the most unforgettable:

Dubai, UAE – Where luxury meets desert adventure, sky-high towers, and cultural intrigue.
Kyoto, Japan – Where geishas, temples, and cherry blossoms preserve the soul of old Japan.
Bali, Indonesia – A spiritual haven with rice terraces, surf towns, and sacred water temples.
Petra, Jordan – The rose-red lost city carved into desert canyons.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia – A vast temple complex that’s a marvel of Khmer ingenuity and spirituality.
Shanghai, China – A futuristic skyline meets old-world charm in this global powerhouse.
Palawan, Philippines – Limestone karsts, turquoise lagoons, and shipwreck dive sites make it Asia’s tropical gem.
Himalayas, Nepal – Trek to Everest Base Camp or simply soak in the serenity of the mountains.
Taj Mahal, India – A monument to love, and a true architectural icon of the world.
Luang Prabang, Laos – A quiet, spiritual town where saffron-robed monks walk past French colonial villas.

Explore Asia

Bangladesh

Regional Breakdown: Dhaka’s urban energy, Sundarbans delta, Sylhet’s green valleys, Cox’s Bazar’s beaches.
Culture & History: Bengali traditions, Mughal-era architecture, Independence Museum, folk festivals.
Where to Eat: Bhuna khichuri, panta ilish, street biryani, mishti (sweets).
Beaches & Nature: Cox’s Bazar (world’s longest beach), Sylhet tea estates, Saint Martin’s Island, Sundarbans mangroves.
Viewpoints: Nilgiri hills, Sajek Valley, Lalbagh Fort terraces.
Nightlife: Limited—local cafés, teahouses, riverside dining in Dhaka.
Best Time to Visit: November–March (dry and pleasant), avoid monsoon floods June–October.
Nearby Destinations: India, Nepal, Myanmar.
Things to do in Bangladesh

Cambodia

Regional Breakdown: Siem Reap’s ancient ruins, Phnom Penh’s riverfront, Kampot’s pepper farms, Koh Rong’s beaches.
Culture & History: Khmer Empire legacies, Angkor Wat, French Indochina history, Khmer Rouge remembrance.
Where to Eat: Fish amok, beef lok lak, kuy teav (noodle soup), Cambodian BBQ.
Beaches & Nature: Koh Rong Samloem, Ream National Park, Cardamom Mountains, Tonlé Sap Lake.
Viewpoints: Phnom Bakheng (Angkor), Bokor Hill Station, Ta Keo temple ruins.
Nightlife: Pub Street (Siem Reap), Phnom Penh rooftop bars, beach huts in Koh Rong.
Best Time to Visit: November–March (dry season), early mornings for temple exploration.
Nearby Destinations: Vietnam, Laos, Thailand.
Things to do in Cambodia

China

Regional Breakdown: Beijing’s imperial sites, Shanghai’s skyline, Xi’an’s ancient heritage, Guilin’s karst landscapes.
Culture & History: Great Wall, Forbidden City, Confucianism, dynastic capitals, Silk Road legacies.
Where to Eat: Peking duck (Beijing), dim sum (Guangzhou), hot pot (Chengdu), soup dumplings (Shanghai).
Beaches & Nature: Hainan beaches, Zhangjiajie mountains, Yellow Mountains, Jiuzhaigou Valley.
Viewpoints: The Bund (Shanghai), Mutianyu Great Wall, Victoria Peak (Hong Kong), Leshan Giant Buddha.
Nightlife: Shanghai’s clubs, Beijing’s hutongs, Chengdu teahouses, Shenzhen rooftops.
Best Time to Visit: April–June, September–October (mild temperatures, less smog).
Nearby Destinations: Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, Mongolia.
Things to do in China

Hong Kong

Regional Breakdown: Central skyscrapers, Kowloon’s culture, Lantau Island’s greenery, outlying islands.
Culture & History: Cantonese heritage, British colonial blend, modern financial hub, traditional markets.
Where to Eat: Dim sum, roast goose, egg tarts, wonton noodles.
Beaches & Nature: Repulse Bay, Sai Kung hikes, Dragon’s Back trail, Tai O fishing village.
Viewpoints: Victoria Peak, Sky100, Tian Tan Buddha outlook.
Nightlife: Lan Kwai Fong clubs, Temple Street Night Market, rooftop bars in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Best Time to Visit: October–December (cooler, clear), May–August is humid.
Nearby Destinations: Macau, China, Taiwan.
Things to do in Hong Kong

India

Regional Breakdown: Delhi’s heritage, Rajasthan’s forts, Kerala’s backwaters, Goa’s beaches, Varanasi’s ghats.
Culture & History: Mughal palaces, Hindu temples, colonial-era buildings, spiritual festivals.
Where to Eat: Butter chicken (Delhi), dosa (Chennai), biryani (Hyderabad), chaat (Mumbai).
Beaches & Nature: Andaman Islands, Goa’s coast, Western Ghats, Himalayan ranges.
Viewpoints: Taj Mahal, Hawa Mahal (Jaipur), Munnar tea hills, Pangong Lake (Ladakh).
Nightlife: Mumbai lounges, Delhi pubs, Goa beach parties, Bangalore breweries.
Best Time to Visit: October–March (ideal weather), April–June for mountain escapes.
Nearby Destinations: Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives.
Things to do in India

Indonesia

Regional Breakdown: Bali’s beaches and rice terraces, Jakarta’s capital buzz, Komodo Island’s dragons, Yogyakarta’s temples.
Culture & History: Hindu and Islamic fusion, ancient temples (Borobudur, Prambanan), traditional crafts and rituals.
Where to Eat: Nasi goreng, satay, gado-gado, babi guling (Bali).
Beaches & Nature: Bali, Lombok, Raja Ampat, Mount Bromo, Lake Toba.
Viewpoints: Uluwatu cliffs (Bali), Mount Ijen crater, Borobudur sunrise, Kelimutu lakes.
Nightlife: Seminyak beach clubs, Jakarta rooftop bars, Ubud cafés, Gili Trawangan parties.
Best Time to Visit: May–September (dry season), October–April (green season in some islands).
Nearby Destinations: Malaysia, Philippines, Australia.
Things to do in Indonesia

Japan

Regional Breakdown: Tokyo’s urban edge, Kyoto’s temples, Mount Fuji’s natural beauty, Hakone’s hot springs.
Culture & History: Shinto and Buddhist temples, samurai heritage, Edo-era architecture, Meiji Restoration.
Where to Eat: Sushi (Tokyo), ramen (Fukuoka), kaiseki (Kyoto), wagyu beef (Kobe).
Beaches & Nature: Okinawa beaches, Arashiyama bamboo forest, Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi.
Viewpoints: Tokyo Skytree, Chureito Pagoda (Fuji Five Lakes), Fushimi Inari shrine trails, Mount Rokko.
Nightlife: Shibuya’s bars, Osaka’s street food alleys, Roppongi clubs, Gion’s geisha district.
Best Time to Visit: March–May (cherry blossoms), October–November (fall foliage), December–February (skiing).
Nearby Destinations: South Korea, Taiwan, China.
Things to do in Japan

Laos

Regional Breakdown: Luang Prabang’s spiritual calm, Vang Vieng’s rivers and cliffs, Pakse and the 4,000 Islands in the south.
Culture & History: French colonial influence, Buddhist temples, UNESCO heritage towns, traditional alms giving.
Where to Eat: Laap (meat salad), khao soi (Lao-style), sticky rice, tam mak hoong (papaya salad).
Beaches & Nature: Mekong River islands, Kuang Si Falls, Bolaven Plateau, Nam Et-Phou Louey jungle.
Viewpoints: Mount Phousi (Luang Prabang), Nam Xay viewpoint (Vang Vieng), waterfalls near Pakse.
Nightlife: Chill riverside bars, backpacker scenes in Vang Vieng, night markets in Luang Prabang.
Best Time to Visit: November–February (cool, dry season), avoid monsoons May–October.
Nearby Destinations: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia.
Things to do in Laos

Macau

Regional Breakdown: Cotai Strip’s resorts, historic Senado Square, Taipa Village, Coloane beaches.
Culture & History: Portuguese colonial heritage, Catholic churches, Chinese temples, UNESCO sites.
Where to Eat: Portuguese egg tarts, Macanese African chicken, seafood rice, pork chop bun.
Beaches & Nature: Hac Sa Beach, Coloane trails, hilltop viewpoints, floral gardens.
Viewpoints: Macau Tower, Guia Fortress, Penha Hill Chapel.
Nightlife: Casinos, hotel lounges, rooftop cocktail bars, night strolls in old town.
Best Time to Visit: October–December (dry and pleasant), summer is hot and humid.
Nearby Destinations: Hong Kong, China, Taiwan.
Things to do in Macau

Malaysia

Regional Breakdown: Kuala Lumpur’s skyline, Penang’s heritage towns, Langkawi’s beaches, Borneo’s rainforests.
Culture & History: Malay, Chinese, and Indian fusion; colonial ports; Islamic architecture.
Where to Eat: Nasi lemak, char kway teow, laksa, satay.
Beaches & Nature: Langkawi, Tioman, Perhentian Islands, Kinabalu Park, Bako National Park.
Viewpoints: Petronas Towers, Penang Hill, Sky Bridge (Langkawi), Mount Kinabalu summit.
Nightlife: KL’s rooftop bars, Penang hawker stalls, beach clubs in Langkawi, speakeasies in Ipoh.
Best Time to Visit: December–March (west coast), May–September (east coast).
Nearby Destinations: Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand.
Things to do in Malaysia

Mongolia

Regional Breakdown: Ulaanbaatar’s Soviet charm, Gobi Desert adventures, Lake Khövsgöl, Orkhon Valley.
Culture & History: Nomadic heritage, Genghis Khan legacy, Naadam Festival, Tibetan Buddhism.
Where to Eat: Buuz (dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pies), airag (fermented mare’s milk), tsuivan.
Beaches & Nature: Lake Khövsgöl, Gobi Desert dunes, Terelj National Park, Altai Mountains.
Viewpoints: Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue, Flaming Cliffs, Yolyn Am canyon.
Nightlife: Ulaanbaatar pubs, folk shows, Soviet-era lounges.
Best Time to Visit: June–September (mild, festival season), avoid harsh winters.
Nearby Destinations: Russia, China, Kazakhstan.
Things to do in Mongolia

Myanmar

Regional Breakdown: Bagan’s temple plains, Inle Lake’s floating villages, Yangon’s colonial center, Mandalay’s royal sites.
Culture & History: Buddhist monasteries, golden pagodas, British colonial legacy, local crafts and festivals.
Where to Eat: Mohinga (fish noodle soup), tea leaf salad, Burmese curry, samosa soup.
Beaches & Nature: Ngapali Beach, Inle Lake, Shan Hills, Mergui Archipelago.
Viewpoints: Balloon ride over Bagan, Mandalay Hill, U Bein Bridge at sunset.
Nightlife: Modest—Yangon teahouses, cultural shows, riverside bars in Mandalay.
Best Time to Visit: November–February (cool, dry), avoid heavy rains in summer.
Nearby Destinations: Thailand, India, China.
Things to do in Myanmar

Nepal

Regional Breakdown: Kathmandu Valley’s temples, Pokhara’s lakeside serenity, Everest region, Chitwan jungles.
Culture & History: Hindu-Buddhist traditions, ancient stupas, royal palaces, living goddess Kumari.
Where to Eat: Momos, dal bhat, thukpa (noodle soup), Newari cuisine.
Beaches & Nature: Himalayan treks, Annapurna ranges, Chitwan National Park, Phewa Lake.
Viewpoints: Nagarkot, Sarangkot (Pokhara), Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar.
Nightlife: Thamel bars in Kathmandu, lakeside pubs in Pokhara, rooftop lounges.
Best Time to Visit: October–December (clear skies), March–April (rhododendron blooms).
Nearby Destinations: India, Bhutan, Tibet.
Things to do in Nepal

Pakistan

Regional Breakdown: Lahore’s Mughal heart, Islamabad’s green capital, Hunza Valley’s peaks, Karachi’s coast.
Culture & History: Ancient Indus sites, Islamic architecture, Sufi shrines, Silk Road heritage.
Where to Eat: Nihari (Karachi), chapli kebab (Peshawar), biryani (Sindh), halwa puri breakfast.
Beaches & Nature: Hunza and Skardu valleys, Fairy Meadows, Kund Malir beach, Deosai Plains.
Viewpoints: Passu Cones, Karakoram Highway, Margalla Hills, Minar-e-Pakistan.
Nightlife: Modest—cafés, chai stalls, live qawwali music, cultural centers.
Best Time to Visit: April–October (mountain access), cooler cities in spring/fall.
Nearby Destinations: China, Afghanistan, India.
Things to do in Pakistan

Philippines

Regional Breakdown: Manila’s heritage districts, Cebu’s history and beaches, Palawan’s lagoons, Siargao’s surf towns, Bohol’s countryside.
Culture & History: Spanish colonial churches, indigenous traditions, WWII sites, vibrant festivals like Sinulog and Ati-Atihan.
Where to Eat: Lechon (Cebu), adobo, sinigang, kinilaw (raw seafood), halo-halo.
Beaches & Nature: White Beach (Boracay), El Nido & Coron (Palawan), Chocolate Hills (Bohol), Apo Reef, Tubbataha Reefs.
Viewpoints: Taal Volcano ridge, Osmeña Peak (Cebu), Banaue Rice Terraces, Mount Pulag summit.
Nightlife: Boracay beach parties, Manila rooftop lounges, Cebu bars, El Nido backpacker pubs.
Best Time to Visit: December–May (dry season), March–April for island hopping.
Nearby Destinations: Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan.
Things to do in the Philippines

Singapore

Regional Breakdown: Marina Bay’s futuristic skyline, Chinatown and Little India, Sentosa Island, Orchard Road.
Culture & History: British colonial past, multiculturalism, temples, shophouses, modern innovation.
Where to Eat: Chili crab, laksa, Hainanese chicken rice, roti prata in hawker centres.
Beaches & Nature: Sentosa beaches, MacRitchie Reservoir trails, Gardens by the Bay, Southern Ridges.
Viewpoints: Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, Singapore Flyer, Mount Faber, Supertree Grove.
Nightlife: Clarke Quay clubs, rooftop bars, speakeasies, Marina Bay night views.
Best Time to Visit: February–April (dry and festive), avoid haze season in September.
Nearby Destinations: Malaysia, Indonesia (Batam, Bintan), Thailand.
Things to do in Singapore

South Korea

Regional Breakdown: Seoul’s cosmopolitan energy, Busan’s beaches, Jeju’s volcanic beauty, Gyeongju’s history.
Culture & History: Joseon palaces, K-pop culture, Buddhist temples, Korean War history.
Where to Eat: Korean BBQ, bibimbap, kimchi stew, street tteokbokki, soju.
Beaches & Nature: Haeundae Beach, Jeju Island, Seoraksan National Park, DMZ trails.
Viewpoints: Namsan Seoul Tower, Sunrise Peak (Jeju), Gamcheon Culture Village.
Nightlife: Gangnam clubs, Hongdae indie bars, Busan beach lounges, karaoke rooms.
Best Time to Visit: March–May (cherry blossoms), September–November (autumn foliage).
Nearby Destinations: Japan, China, Taiwan.
Things to do in South Korea

Sri Lanka

Regional Breakdown: Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa), tea country in Ella, southern beaches, Jaffna in the north.
Culture & History: Buddhist relics, ancient kingdoms, colonial forts, Tamil and Sinhalese heritage.
Where to Eat: Kottu roti, crab curry, string hoppers, coconut sambol.
Beaches & Nature: Mirissa, Arugam Bay, Unawatuna, Yala National Park, Horton Plains.
Viewpoints: Sigiriya Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, Nine Arches Bridge, Lipton’s Seat.
Nightlife: Beach bars in Mirissa, Colombo lounges, Galle Fort cafés.
Best Time to Visit: December–March (south and west coasts), May–September (east coast).
Nearby Destinations: India, Maldives, Seychelles.
Things to do in Sri Lanka

Taiwan

Regional Breakdown: Taipei’s urban life, Tainan’s temples, Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan Forest Railway.
Culture & History: Indigenous roots, Chinese influences, Japanese colonial legacy, democratic evolution.
Where to Eat: Beef noodle soup, xiao long bao, stinky tofu, bubble tea.
Beaches & Nature: Kenting beaches, Taroko cliffs, Alishan sunrise trails, Orchid Island.
Viewpoints: Elephant Mountain, Jiufen village, Sun Moon Lake vistas.
Nightlife: Taipei night markets, Ximending bars, speakeasies, Kaohsiung clubs.
Best Time to Visit: October–April (dry season), May–September can be rainy/typhoon-prone.
Nearby Destinations: Japan, Philippines, Hong Kong.
Things to do in Taiwan

Thailand

Regional Breakdown: Bangkok’s temples and markets, Chiang Mai’s mountains, Phuket’s beaches, Koh Samui’s resorts.
Culture & History: Buddhist traditions, royal palaces, Ayutthaya ruins, Songkran water festival.
Where to Eat: Pad Thai (Bangkok), khao soi (Chiang Mai), green curry, mango sticky rice.
Beaches & Nature: Phi Phi Islands, Railay Beach, Similan Islands, Erawan Falls.
Viewpoints: Wat Arun, Doi Suthep, Big Buddha (Phuket), Phang Nga Bay cliffs.
Nightlife: Bangkok rooftop bars, Full Moon Parties in Koh Phangan, Pattaya clubs, Chiang Mai night bazaars.
Best Time to Visit: November–February (cool season), April (Songkran), May–October (green season).
Nearby Destinations: Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia.
Things to do in Thailand

Vietnam

Regional Breakdown: Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh City’s French colonial charm, Ha Long Bay’s karsts, Sapa’s mountain villages.
Culture & History: Imperial citadels, Vietnam War relics, water puppetry, Buddhist pagodas.
Where to Eat: Pho (Hanoi), banh mi, bun cha, fresh spring rolls, egg coffee.
Beaches & Nature: Ha Long Bay, Phu Quoc, Ninh Binh, Da Nang coastline, Con Dao Islands.
Viewpoints: Ha Long Bay cruises, Fansipan peak, Marble Mountains, Mua Cave viewpoint.
Nightlife: Bia Hoi corners in Hanoi, rooftop bars in Saigon, beach clubs in Da Nang, night markets in Hoi An.
Best Time to Visit: March–April and September–November (mild and dry), avoid summer heat and typhoon season.
Nearby Destinations: Cambodia, Laos, China.
Things to do in Vietnam

How to Choose Where to Go in Asia

Asia’s size and variety can be overwhelming — here’s how to narrow it down:

First-Time Travelers: Southeast Asia is ideal — Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali offer a soft landing with excellent tourism infrastructure.
Culture Seekers: Japan, India, Iran, and Uzbekistan are rich with heritage, religion, and tradition.
Nature & Trekking: Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Northern Pakistan, and parts of Indonesia offer epic adventures.
Luxury & Relaxation: The Maldives, Japan’s ryokan spas, and the Arabian Gulf offer top-tier comfort.
Underrated Gems: Consider Laos, Georgia, or Armenia for peaceful escapes without the crowds.
Island Escapes: Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia offer endless coastlines and island-hopping options.

How to Get Around Asia

Asia’s transport infrastructure ranges from ultra-modern to rustic. Plan your route based on country and travel style:

Flights: Asia has strong low-cost carriers — AirAsia, Scoot, VietJet, Cebu Pacific — making cross-border hops cheap and fast.
Trains: Japan (Shinkansen), China (high-speed rail), and India (slow but scenic) offer vastly different rail experiences.
Buses & Vans: Southeast Asia’s overland routes use sleeper buses and minivans — affordable but often slow.
Car Rentals & Motorbikes: Common in rural Bali, Vietnam, or Northern India — but be cautious about road conditions and traffic.
Boats & Ferries: Island-hopping in the Philippines or Thailand requires ferries or bangkas.
Apps: Use Grab, Gojek, or InDriver for safe and cheap urban transport.

Travel Budget & Costs in Asia

Asia is home to both some of the cheapest and most expensive destinations in the world:

Budget-Friendly (Southeast Asia, South Asia):
- Daily budget: $25–$50
- Hostel: $10–$20, Street food: $2–$5, Local transport: $1–$3
Mid-Range (East Asia, Central Asia):
- Daily budget: $60–$120
- Boutique hotels: $40–$80, Meals: $10–$25
Luxury (Japan, UAE, Maldives):
- Daily budget: $250+
- 5-star hotels or resorts: $200–$1,000+, Fine dining: $50+, Private tours and transport

Money Tips:

Cash is still king in many rural areas.
Use ATMs with global banks (HSBC, Citi, etc.).
Carry USD as a backup — widely accepted in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Central Asia.

Best Time to Visit Asia

Asia spans multiple climate zones — timing depends heavily on where you go:

Southeast Asia: Dry season is November to April.
Japan/Korea/China: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are best.
South Asia: Avoid monsoon (June–Sept). October to March is ideal.
Central Asia: Summer (June–August) is peak for hiking and overland routes.
Middle East: October to April has comfortable temps; summers are brutally hot.

Tip: Use WeatherSpark – Best Time to Visit to compare monthly temperatures and rainfall for your destinations.

Must-See Experiences in Asia

Asia is full of life-changing, soul-stirring experiences. Don’t miss:

Joining monks in sunrise chants at a Thai temple.
Floating through Ha Long Bay on a junk boat.
Feasting on sushi at Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market.
Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan.
Drifting in a houseboat on Kerala’s backwaters.
Sleeping under the stars in Jordan’s Wadi Rum desert.

Book immersive Asia tours and experience unforgettable things to do in Asia — from sacred temple rituals and highland treks to floating markets and lakeside food adventures.

Best Travel Itineraries in Asia

Whether you have one week or a few months, these sample itineraries help you build the ultimate Asia journey:

1 Week – Culture & City Break

Tokyo + Kyoto (Japan): Experience cutting-edge tech and timeless tradition.
Bangkok + Angkor Wat (Thailand & Cambodia): Temples, street food, and ancient wonders.
Istanbul + Cappadocia (Turkey): East meets West with hot air balloon views.

2 Weeks – Nature & Adventure

Nepal + Bhutan: Trekking in the Himalayas paired with Bhutanese serenity.
Vietnam + Laos: Motorbike routes, Mekong River cruises, and limestone caves.
Sri Lanka: A perfect loop through ancient cities, surf coasts, and tea highlands.

3–4 Weeks – Multi-Country Journey

Southeast Asia Circuit: Thailand → Laos → Vietnam → Cambodia → Malaysia.
Central Asia Silk Road: Uzbekistan → Kyrgyzstan → Tajikistan → Kazakhstan.
East Asia Combo: Taiwan → Japan → South Korea → Hong Kong.

Local Cuisine & Culinary Experiences

Asia is a continent of bold flavors, ancient recipes, and street food heaven. Some standout culinary moments:

India: Spicy curries, tandoori, and regional thalis — every state is its own cuisine.
Thailand: Tom yum soup, green curry, and bustling night markets.
China: From dim sum in Hong Kong to hand-pulled noodles in Xi’an.
Japan: Sushi, ramen, and Michelin-starred street stalls.
Malaysia: Fusion of Malay, Indian, and Chinese — try laksa and nasi lemak.
Uzbekistan: Plov (pilaf), samsa pastries, and market culture meals.
Iran: Saffron rice, kebabs, and ancient Persian flavors.

Tips:

Join local food tours for an authentic dive into markets and home kitchens.
Be cautious with water and ice in rural areas.
Don’t skip the snacks: samosas, mochi, bao, roti canai, and yakitori are iconic.

Travel Safety & Cultural Etiquette in Asia

Asia is generally safe for travelers — but regional knowledge goes a long way:

Safety Tips

Petty theft is common in touristy areas (e.g., Saigon, Delhi, Manila) — stay aware.
Research local scams (like gem tours or tuk-tuk traps).
Register with your embassy if traveling through unstable zones (e.g., parts of Afghanistan, Myanmar).
Carry cash, copies of ID, and travel insurance.

Travel Insurance: Always recommended. We suggest Ekta Travel Insurance for affordable, global coverage.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly in temples and conservative areas.
Remove shoes before entering homes or sacred spaces.
Use the right hand for giving/receiving in India and Muslim countries.
Respect elders and avoid public displays of affection.
Learn a few local phrases — it goes a long way!

Where to Go Next – Pair Asia with These Destinations

Asia connects well with neighboring continents, tropical archipelagos, and major transport hubs. Consider these pairings:

Australia/New Zealand: Frequent flights from Southeast Asia and East Asia make Oceania a natural add-on.
Middle East to Europe: Turkey, Israel, and the UAE are easy launch points toward Greece, Italy, or Eastern Europe.
Central Asia to the Caucasus: From Uzbekistan, continue to Georgia, Armenia, or Azerbaijan by land or air.
Tropical Islands: Extend your trip with a dive retreat in the Maldives or a cultural escape to Sri Lanka.

Explore more:

Final Planning Checklist for Asia

Check visa requirements per country (some need advance e-Visas)
Book travel insurance and verify health requirements
Plan overland routes and multi-destination flights early
Learn a few phrases in local languages — it shows respect
Save digital and paper backups of your passport and travel docs
Pack layers for varied climates — from tropical humidity to alpine chill
Use WhatsApp, Google Translate, and ride-hailing apps where available

Asia at a Glance – Key Travel Insights

Cultural Sensitivity: Deep-rooted traditions, sacred sites, and spiritual norms require mindful travel.
Size & Diversity: Asia spans 48 countries, climates from tundra to tropics, and cultures from Buddhist to Bedouin.
Transport Web: Asia has excellent regional airlines and growing rail networks — ideal for DIY or tour-based travelers.
Visa Complexity: Some countries offer e-Visas (India, Vietnam), others require advance approval (China, Bhutan).
Budget Range: $30/day backpacking to $1,000+/day luxury — Asia fits all budgets.

Ready to Explore Asia?

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in the Philippines, wandering ancient cities in Indonesia, or savoring sushi in Japan, Asia delivers unforgettable adventures at every turn. Use this guide to craft your perfect itinerary, discover lesser-known gems, and dive deeper into cultures that will reshape how you see the world.

Start planning your epic journey across Asia — the most diverse and dynamic continent on Earth.