Asia is the largest continent by area and also the most populous. It is a multicultural continent with some of the prehistoric civilizations in the world. Tourists love to explore new landscapes around the world. Asia has some of the best hideaways like the Taj Mahal in India, the Great Wall in China, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and Halong Bay in Vietnam. These are the sites most people know, but it’s much more than that.
Asia is a wonderful continent full of wonders. There are other astounding world-class tourist destinations that only a few people know about, let alone visit. Here are ten lesser-known and fascinating destinations in Asia.
10 Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Kanchanaburi is one of Southeast Asia’s most cherished undisclosed jewels. It’s on a peaceful river two hours from crowded Bangkok; waterfalls, historical sites and green jungles are nearby. The town has an untold history of how Japanese soldiers mistreated Allied troops, POWs and Asian laborers in harsh conditions during World War II to build the railway to Burma.
One can cross the famous bridge over the River Kwai and visit the moving museum and memorial to those who died there. After learning about the town’s history, stop by the bustling shops and restaurants along the river, or explore the town’s beautiful trails and waterfalls.
9 she, sri lankan
Ella is full of adventure, which is why it ranks at the top of Asia’s hidden gems. Take a spectacular train ride through green countryside and drink a cup of fresh tea from a local plantation. Put on a pair of boots and get ready to walk along the railway to Ella Rock or climb Little Adams Peak.
Explore Ella’s waterfalls; there are many to choose from or watch the sun set over the Ella Gap. No matter which activity you choose, Ella will provide you with the best adventures and memories in Sri Lanka.
8 Phong Nha-Kibang National Park, Vietnam
Listed as Phong Nha-Kẻ Kẻ Bàng National Park by UNESCO, it has one of the unique landscapes in Asia. Located in north-central Vietnam, this region features jungle-covered mountains, prehistoric caves, winding rivers and mountains formed more than 40 million years ago.
Son Doong Cave, one of the largest caves in the world, is also located in Phong Nha-Kẻ Kẻ Bàng National Park. One can kayak along the river, meet locals and walk through ancient caves. The best news is that Phong Nha is still a little secret among travelers, so plan to visit Phong Nha before everyone else.
7 Wuyuan, China
Wuyuan is one of the most beautiful villages in China. Located in the northeast of Jiangxi Province. It is a settlement of more than 40 prehistoric villages with well-preserved buildings dating back to the Tang Dynasty some 1,000 years ago.
Settlements are surrounded by bright forests, yellow flowers, rivers and mountains, and it will take days of exploration to see all of the natural wonders. Wuyuan is the perfect destination to escape the busy city life.
6 Con Dao Islands, Vietnam
Imagine coral reefs, emerald forests and cays all converging into one remarkable archipelago… this is the Kunda Islands. It is located on the southern coast of Vietnam. Côn Đảo was once used as a prison by the Americans and French after the invasion of Vietnam, but today it is a peaceful beach paradise.
This is a group of islands where one can spend days snorkeling and diving in the crystal clear waters, or visit Bay Canh Island, where sea turtles breed. Other endangered species such as dugongs, green sea turtles, eagle-billed turtles and dolphins are also present in the marine park.
5 Kuang Si Falls, Laos
Kansai Falls consists of a chain of waterfalls with beautiful blue water. Take spectacular photos, hike through the dense jungle to the top of the waterfall or swim at the base of the waterfall. It is only an hour’s drive from Luang Prabang to Kuang Si Waterfall.
4 Yakushima, Japan
Yakushima is a subtropical island inhabited by some of the oldest trees in Japan; some are over 7,000 years old. You can take a quiet walk in Shiratani Unsuikyo, a rich natural park, or hike through the mountains. The mountain is home to monkeys, Yakushima deer and other beautiful animals.
3 Koh Rong Island, Cambodia
Koh Rong Island is home to Asia’s hidden beaches. It is located off the coast of Sihanoukville Province, Cambodia. It has waterfalls, lush jungles, coral reefs, clear seas and sandy beaches. This is the perfect destination for those looking to unwind and relax on the beach. Or join the lively party at the beach restaurants and bars.
2 Koh Lipe, Thailand
Koh Lipe also has amazing hidden beaches in Asia. This is a place not to be missed. Turquoise waters and white sands surround it. Koh Lipe is located in the South Andaman Sea within the Tarutao National Marine Park, providing the best environment for snorkeling and diving.
It has plenty of sandy beaches to soak up the sun, while not forgetting trails in the jungle for hiking and picturesque views of the island.
1 Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Comprising more than 1,500 islands, Raja Ampat is home to some of the most spectacular places on Earth. It is located in West Papua Province, Indonesia. One will discover sandy beaches, secret entrances and hidden caves. It is part of the equatorial Coral Triangle. As such, it is home to a wide variety of marine life. Raja Ampat is a magical place.
