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10 Amazing Countries to Visit in Asia

The best travel guides to Asia, all in one place

Asia has become increasingly popular to visit in recent years. Travelling around the continent is always an unforgettable experience, as every country has its own unique culture and way of life. Yet with so many incredible places to choose from, some destinations keep drawing more attention than others. That's why we've rounded up ten of the best destinations in Asia, all of which we already wrote about in Globetrotter over the years. You might just find the inspiration for your next adventure among them.

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1. Philippines

The Philippines deserves a place right at the top of any list of Asia's best destinations. With its paradise beaches and warm hospitality, it's easy to see why millions of travellers visit it every year. If you're thinking about travelling to the Philippines, you'll find inspiration in our three-part travelogue, where you’ll learn all about the chaotic capital Manila and the lesser-visited islands of Bantayan and Bohol, home to the famous Chocolate Hills, tarsiers and one of the country's most beautiful beaches. Alongside the writer's personal experiences, you'll also find plenty of practical tips to help you plan your own trip.

2. Japan

Japan is one of the most fascinating countries not only in Asia, but also in the world. It combines centuries of old traditions with cutting-edge technology, world-class cuisine and a culture unlike anywhere else. If you'd like to explore modern Japan, we recommend our article on Tokyo, where you'll find ideas for exploring the country's largest city, its top sights and practical tips for your visit. If you're more interested in Japan's history and traditional side, we recommend our article on Kyoto, the country's former imperial capital, known for its Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, geishas and one of the best-preserved historic city centres in Japan.

Woman wearing a traditional Japanese kimono with a pink paper umbrella.

3. Thailand

Thailand has been considered one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia for decades. It attracts travellers with its paradise beaches, Buddhist temples, excellent street food, lively nightlife and affordable prices. If you're planning a trip to Thailand, we recommend our article packed with travel tips, where you'll find ideas for exploring Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the Thai islands, suggestions for day trips and information about the local cuisine.

4. India

India is one of the most diverse countries in the world, which makes it almost impossible to experience in a single trip. The magnificent Taj Mahal, bustling cities, the deserts of Rajasthan, tropical beaches and sacred temples are only part of what India has to offer, and each region tells a completely different story. For a first-hand account, read our two-part travelogue, where you'll find honest stories about the culture shock, encounters with locals and the many experiences that make India such a special place.

View of the Taj Mahal through the monumental entrance to the complex.

5. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island nation just south of India, has become especially popular with young travellers in recent years thanks to its excellent surfing conditions, scenic train journeys through tea plantations, and safaris where you can spot elephants, leopards and other wildlife. If you'd like to see what else Sri Lanka has to offer, read our travelogue about travelling the island independently, where you'll find the writer's journey, memorable experiences and impressions of exploring one of Asia's most diverse countries.

6. Jordan

Not many countries as small as Jordan offer such a big variety of experiences. Among them are the ancient Petra, the Wadi Rum desert, the Dead Sea and the Red Sea's coral reefs, enough to put Jordan on any traveller’s bucket list. For inspiration, read our travelogue, which follows a road trip across Jordan and includes practical travel tips and the places that stood out the most along the way.

View through the Siq canyon towards the famous Treasury in Petra.

7. Indonesia

Indonesia is made up of around 17,000 islands, each with its own unique landscapes, cultures and traditions. It's also known for its active volcanoes, tropical rainforests, coral reefs, ancient temples and remarkable cultural diversity, with hundreds of different ethnic groups calling the country home. If you'd like to explore Indonesia beyond the tourist hotspots like Bali, read our series on Sumatra, which follows an adventurous journey through the rainforest, encounters with orangutans, a volcano hike and meetings with local people.

8. China

China is the third largest country in the world, so it comes as no surprise that the possibilities for exploration are endless. Some of the most famous sights and attractions are the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, modern cities, rice terraces and breathtaking landscapes, but this is only the beginning. Before your trip, read our travel guide, where you'll find practical planning tips and ideas for exploring different regions.

Two fishermen preparing a fishing net beside a river in the tropical landscape of the Philippines.

9. Nepal

Nepal is a land of the Himalayas, ancient temples and a rich spiritual heritage. It's home to eight of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest, and is also the birthplace of Buddha. Travellers are drawn to its unique blend of Hinduism, Buddhism and unspoilt natural beauty. If you're thinking about travelling to Nepal, read our four-part travelogue, where you'll find practical tips for planning your trip, exploring Kathmandu and its cultural heritage, information on renting a car, visits to Chitwan National Park and Pokhara, and other lesser-known places that most tourists usually skip.

10. Cambodia

Cambodia is best known for Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument. Beyond the temples of the former Khmer Empire, you'll also find floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake, tropical islands such as Koh Rong, and a laid-back atmosphere that many travellers consider most authentic in Southeast Asia. In Globetrotter, you can learn about Cambodia's tragic history or explore some of its most beautiful places through the eyes of a solo traveller.

Traveller sitting on Hanoi's famous Train Street.

Explore Asia with Globetrotter

These brief introductions only scratch the surface of what each country has to offer, so we invite you to read our travelogues and get to know the places that appeal to you most. Hopefully this helps you choose your next destination and made planning your trip a little easier – and if you're looking for more inspiration, you'll find plenty of travel stories, destination guides and practical travel tips in Globetrotter to help you plan your next adventure.

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