Southeast Asia is rich in color, culture, and wonders. From the bustling cityscapes of Bangkok to the lush greenery of Kuala Lumpur, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant corner of the world.
However, while many people come to experience these big cities and towns, they often need to remember all the other interesting sites and activities that can be found off-the-beaten-track in Southeast Asia.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want to explore outside your comfort zone and learn more about one of Asia’s oldest civilizations, read on as we discuss five lesser-known things to do in Southeast Asia that should not be missed.
Here are the top best things to do in South-East Asia
Explore the Gardens by the Bay, Singapore:
This beautiful park offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and features three gardens – Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central – full of exotic plants, waterfalls, and sculptures.
Visit the Angkor Wat Temple Complex in Cambodia:
Home to some of Southeast Asia’s most impressive temples, this World Heritage Site is an incredible place to explore. Don’t miss out on any of the five main temples of this UNESCO site.
Climb Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia:
Adventure seekers won’t want to pass up a chance to climb this 13,435 ft mountain in Sabah. The mountain is also home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests, and it, summit offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Visit Phuket Old Town in Thailand:
This old city is full of history, culture,e and charm. There are many temples to explore, markets to wander around,d and plenty of delicious food stalls serving a range of local dishes.
Indulge in the street food scene in Vietnam:
Vietnam is renowned for its amazing street food, with cities like Hanoi home to some of its tastiest dishes. Try local favorites such as Banh Mi (baguette sandwiches) and Pho (rice noodle soup).
Take a cooking class in Laos:
Learn how to make authentic Lao dishes such as Larb (minced meat salad) and Khao Phan (savory rice cakes). You’ll learn about the local culture, flavors, and ingredients used in traditional cooking.
Go scuba diving in Palawan, Philippines:
Palawan is home to some of the best dive spots in the world with its crystal clear waters and colorful coral reefs. Make sure you take advantage of a chance to explore this underwater paradise.
Explore Borobudur Temple in Indonesia:
This incredible 9th-century temple complex is full of intricate carvings and statues, making it a must-see for any traveler to Indonesia. Don’t forget to check out the stupas, or Buddhist shrines, on the top of this temple.
Visit Sihanoukville in Cambodia:
This coastal city is home to some stunning beaches, a vibrant nightlife scene, and plen, ty of seafood restaurants. Spend a day exploring the beach,s or head further inland for some amazing hiking trails.
Climb up Doi Inthanon National Park in Thailand:
This national park is home to two peaks – Doi Inthanon and Doi Chiang Dao – both offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Ensure you don't miss out on an opportunity to experience nature at its best.
Spot the Irrawaddy dolphins in Myanmar:
These rare species of dolphins can be found in the waters off Cheduba Island, and they are a sight to behold. Pack your binoculars and take a boat tour to spot these amazing creatures up close.
Take a surfing lesson in Bali, Indonesia:
Bali is known for its world-class surf breaks so why not take the plunge and try it yourself? You’ll find plenty of surf schools located on the beaches of Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak, where you can learn how to ride some waves.
Visit Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Towers in Malaysia:
This iconic landmark offers stunning views of the city and is the tallest twin towers in the world. Make sure you don’t forget to visit the sky bridge that connects the two towers!
Explore Sukhothai Historical Park in Thailand:
This important archaeological site is home to several ruined temples, palaces, and monuments, making it a great place for those looking to learn more about Thailand’s history.
Trek along Gunung Mulu National Park in Malaysia:
This stunning national park offers plenty of trekking opportunities, caving, and rock climbing for adrenaline junkies. Don’t miss out on seeing some of its unique wildlife, such as frogs, bats, and monkeys.
Take a trip to Pulau Perhentian in Malaysia:
These two small islands offer some of the region's best beaches and marine life – perfect for any beach-lover looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you want to relax on the beach or go snorkeling, this is worth checking out!
Visit Horse Shoe Bay in Singapore:
This stunning bay offers panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline and plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking opportunities. A perfect spot to watch the sunset!
Climb up Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia:
This massive mountain is located on Borneo Island and provides some of the best views in the region. Ensure you don’t miss out on an opportunity to climb this breathtaking peak!
Southeast Asia is a vast and fascinating region with plenty of things to see and do, no matter what kind of traveler you are.
From exploring ancient temples to taking cooking classes or scuba diving, there is something for everyone in Southeast Asia. So why plan your next adventure today? It promises to be an experience that you won’t soon forget!
FAQs
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Southeast Asia?
A: The best time to visit Southeast Asia depends on your destination and what kind of experience you seek. Generally, the dry season (from October to March) is a popular time for travelers as this is when the region's temperatures are most favorable. However, some places, such as Bali and Singapore, can be very busy during these times, so it's worth researching before booking your trip.
Q: How much does it cost to travel in Southeast Asia?
A: The cost of traveling in Southeast Asia varies greatly depending on where you go and how long you stay. Budget travelers can expect to spend around $15-20 USD daily for accommodation, food, and basic activities. However, your daily budget can quickly increase if you want to splurge on luxury hotels or participate in more expensive activities such as diving or trekking.
Q: What is the best way to get around Southeast Asia?
A: The most popular way to get around Southeast Asia is by plane, as flights between cities are usually quite affordable. Other options include trains, buses, and boats, so it’s worth looking into them before booking any transportation. Traveling in some parts of the region can be slow due to poor infrastructure, so make sure you plan!
Conclusion
No matter what kind of traveler you are, Southeast Asia will surely offer something that sparks your curiosity. From exploring ancient temples and monuments to taking cooking classes or going snorkeling, there is something for everyone in this vibrant corner of the world. So why plan your next adventure today? It promises to be an experience that you won’t soon forget!
