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Southeast Asia Itineraries: From 2 Weeks to 3 Months

Itinerary planning is a complex beast. There’s no single best route out there. Everyone has different travel desires, goals, and needs (let alone budgets). It’s why I’ve always shied away from discussing itinerary planning for long-term travel .

Showing someone how to plan a trip is one thing, but actually planning a trip for someone else is tricky, because I don’t know what they want or like.

Because, at the end of the day, there is no such thing as a perfect itinerary. You have to go where you want to go and, while suggested routes can help inspire you, at the end of the day, only you can plan the best route for you.

However, that can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to tackle an entire region like Southeast Asia . So, in this post, I’ll provide a few suggested itineraries to help you conquer this fantastic region.

For the two-week itinerary, I’ll break things up by day, but as we get into one-month and three-month territory, you’ll have a lot more flexibility with your time, so I’ll give rougher estimates of how to spend it.

After all, part of the beauty of travel is keeping yourself open to serendipitous moments and experiences!

Table of Contents

Southeast Asia Two-Week Itinerary

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If you only have two weeks in Southeast Asia, I suggest sticking to just 1-2 countries so that you don’t spend all your time in transit. You’ll also be able to better soak up the atmosphere if you’re not trying to cram too much in. With a more limited time frame, just accept that you’ll have to leave some things to look forward to on your next trip!

Take a walking tour to get your bearings and get local recommendations from the guide. Bangkok Walking Tours or Free Bangkok Walks are two great free options — just remember to tip your guide at the end!

For a more in-depth tour, you can take a city highlights tour , on which your guide will take you through some of Bangkok’s major attractions.

While the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market just outside of Bangkok exists mostly for the benefit of tourists, I still like visiting it. The tours that go there leave early in the morning and last about half a day. It’s not a great place to shop (prices are much higher than elsewhere), but the area is good for photography and eating.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK : Lub d Siam – This is a very popular spot for backpackers looking to stay somewhere other than the infamous party district that is Khao San Road. The hostel is modern, the rooms are spacious, and there are plenty of common areas to socialize in, including a café/bar.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s most famous temple (the pagoda supposedly contains relics of the Buddha himself). It offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and, at 6pm each day, you can watch the monks chant. The main other temples are Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Jet Yot. Walking tours that visit several of these main temples start at 500 THB.

If you want to see elephants, a good way to get up close with them is to volunteer at or visit Elephant Nature Park. This sanctuary near Chiang Mai rescues abused and injured elephants from around the country. It’s a phenomenal place, and after coming here, you will know why you should never ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs 2,500-3,500 THB for adults.

WHERE TO STAY IN CHIANG MAI : Hostel Lullaby – This fantastic hostel in the heart of Chiang Mai was even voted the best in Thailand. Besides the comfortable facilities, there are a ton of perks here, including free bikes, free breakfast, and free Thai boxing, cooking, and yoga classes.

Days 7-9: Chiang Mai to Bangkok Here you have a few options: stay longer in Chiang Mai to do more jungle trekking; head up to Chiang Rai to see the famous White Temple; or take the long way back down to Bangkok, stopping for a night in each of Thailand’s ancient capitals (Ayutthaya and Sukhothai) or spending some time in one of the national forests, such as the incredible Khao Yai National Park .

Once back in Bangkok, you can either head into Cambodia to see Angkor Wat if you’re ambitious, or just hang out in Bangkok for a few more days before your flight home.

If you choose to go to Angkor Wat, here are my recommendations:

Be sure to visit the Landmine Museum. Landmines have devastated the country, maiming and killing thousands. They still cause destruction today, as remaining mines from the Vietnam War (which spilled over into Cambodia) are discovered every year. The museum has an in-depth exhibit that is very worthwhile, as it gives perspective on their use, dangers, and efforts to remove them.

Also, spend a day at Angkor Wat , the ancient site that was the center of the Khmer Empire that once ruled most of Southeast Asia. The temple was built in the 12th century and covers over 500 acres.

While a single-day visit can cover the main temples, this is an amazing site to explore, so I highly recommend two days (at least).

You can hire a tuk-tuk for the day or rent bicycles and explore on your own. Tuk-tuks have room for 3-4 people, making it a cheap and convenient option if you can split the ride with other travelers. You can also take a full-day guided tour to learn even more from a professional.

Admission is $37 USD per person for a day pass, $62 USD for a three-day pass, and $72 USD for a seven-day pass.

WHERE TO STAY IN SIEM REAP : Mad Monkey – This is a fun, lively, and social hostel with a bar, pool, and lots of tours and organized activities to help you meet people and explore the city.

Day 13: Bus back to Bangkok Take the bus back to the Thai capital, where you can spend the last day of your trip exploring more of the many things to see and do in Bangkok , or just simply hang out, relax, and eat all the delicious Thai food you can before your journey home.

Day 14: Departure day Head off to the airport knowing that you made the most of your two weeks in Southeast Asia. Chances are that you only whetted your appetite for traveling through this amazing region of the world, and you might already be planning your next trip on your way back home!

With one month, you’ll be able to take it a little slower, see more places, and get off the beaten path a bit more. You can add another country and leave more flexibility in your itinerary.

Days 1-3: Bangkok Follow the Bangkok itinerary above, and stay for a few more days if you like! There are endless things to do in Bangkok.

For more recommendations, check out my free Bangkok city guide .

Day 4: Bangkok–Chiang Mai With one month, you can choose to take the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. It’s not only cheaper but a nice way to see the countryside. Sure, you “waste” a day, but you see the countryside, experience how Thais take the train, and can eat from vendors who briefly board at every stop.

The day train remains one of my favorite experiences in Thailand. Just make sure you have a good book as the journey is 10-13 hours long.

Days 5-7: Chiang Mai See the Chiang Mai itinerary above. For more recommendations on things to do, check out my free Chiang Mai city guide .

Days 8-10: Slow boat from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, Laos After spending your first week in cities, take a load off and drift down the river on a slow boat. These boats generally take two days, stopping overnight at a guesthouse along the way. It’s a beautiful way to see the scenery and recharge a bit from a busy week.

Alternatively, if you want to save time, you can fly between the two destinations, or skip ahead in this itinerary to Vietnam .

Although it’s small (around 56,000 people live here), there’s a lot to see and do, with dozens of temples, streets lined with French colonial architecture ( this walking tour hits all the highlights and then some ), a bustling night market, river tours , and waterfalls. I came here for three days but ended up staying a week!

Start off with a visit to the “Buddha Caves” (officially, the Pak Ou Caves). They hold over 6,000 Buddha statues that the locals still use for worship. There are standing Buddhas, sitting Buddhas, reclining Buddhas — you name it! You can visit solo or book a guided tour .

While you’re here, don’t miss the iconic Kuang Si waterfalls (you’ve probably seen them on Instagram already). They flow through the limestone-rich jungle and empty into a series of three gently cascading pools. While it’s one of the most popular attractions in the area (avoid the weekends, when it’s super busy), the Kuang Si Falls was also one of the most breathtaking things I saw in Laos.

Other things to do here include:

• The Royal Palace
• Mount Phousi
• Wat Xieng Thong Monastery
• The alms ceremony
• Kayaking the Mekong River

For more things to do, check out my free guide to Luang Prabang .

WHERE TO STAY IN LUANG PRABANG : Downtown Backpackers Hostel 2 – This is a great little hostel with free breakfast, moped rentals, clean dorms, and super helpful staff.

Kick things off with a tubing trip down the river. It’s the best way to relax and stay cool. A tubing and kayaking tour costs around 575,000 LAK.

And if you want to stretch your legs, climb Pha Poak Mountain. It’s only a 30-minute climb to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the area’s limestone mountains.

Other things to see and do in Vang Vieng include:

• The Golden Cave
• Hot air balloon rides
• The Blue Lagoon

For more things to do, check out my free guide to Vang Vieng .

WHERE TO STAY IN VANG VIENG : Nana Backpackers Hostel – This is a fun, social hostel with a swimming pool, movie room, small gym, and bar with free vodka and whiskey every night from 7pm to 9pm.

Nowadays, the city is a hub for café culture, cheap spas, golden temples, and diverse riverside markets. Much of its historical center has kept its colorful colonial architecture intact too, making it a nice area to stroll around.

Wander the wide boulevards, take in the crumbling mansions, chill out in Chao Anouvong Park, enjoy the flavorful local cuisine (there are a ton of delicious French bakeries here as well).

Make sure you visit Buddha Park, a sculpture park is just 25 kilometers (15 miles) outside of Vientiane. There are around 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues here, all of which appear to be centuries old (they’re not — they were made in the 20th century out of concrete). While not “historic” per se, it’s still worth visiting, as there are all kinds of unconventional designs, including a three-meter (9.8-foot) demon head that you can enter, and staircases from heaven and hell that you can climb. Admission is 15,000 LAK.

You’ll also want to admire the Great Stupa (Pha That Luang). It’s a 44-meter (148-foot) gold-covered stupa (dome-shaped Buddhist shrine) and is the most important monument in the country. Built by King Setthathirat in 1566, its exterior looks like a fortress with high walls. Inside, the walls are covered in Buddhist, floral, and animal imagery. Admission is 10,000 LAK.

Other things to see and do in Vientiane include:

• The COPE Visitor Centre
• Victory Gate (Patuxai)
• Chao Anouvong Park
• Lao Boat Racing Festival

For more things to do, check out my guide to Vientiane .

WHERE TO STAY IN VIENTIANE : Dream Home – This is a fantastic hostel that offers everything you need while staying in the capital. There’s free breakfast, comfy beds, AC, a nightly happy hour at the hostel bar, and a 24-hour reception with friendly staff members.

Days 20-22: Pakse Pakse is the gateway to Laos’ 4,000 Islands (in the Mekong River), so there isn’t a ton to do here other than chill out and relax. It’s a nice place to stop while heading south to Cambodia. Alternatively, you can take a 1.5-hour flight from Vientiane to Phnom Penh to save some time and give you extra days elsewhere.

WHERE TO STAY IN PAKSE : Sanga Hostel – This cozy hostel has super comfortable beds, a restaurant with fantastic home-cooked food (free banana cakes!), and a lovely owner.

The Royal Palace is home to beautiful flower gardens and the Silver Pagoda, whose floor is made up of more than 5,000 silver tiles; inside is an emerald-covered Buddha and a diamond-covered Maitreya Buddha. The palace also has murals around its outer wall that tell the story of the Ramayana.

On the palace grounds are five stupas, with the two largest to the east containing the ashes of Kings Norodom and King Udung (the two most famous kings of modern Cambodia) and a statue of King Norodom on horseback.

The most important thing to see here, however, is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. Tuol Sleng is a former school where the Khmer Rouge interrogated and tortured people in the 1970s. You’ll see rusty beds and torture devices, in sharp contrast to the beautiful trees and lovely jasmine smell in the gardens.

After, head to the Killing Fields. It may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for a hallowed and memorable experience, a testament to the dangers of uncontested power. Admission to the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is $20 USD. This includes a guided tour so you can get an in-depth look at this haunting place.

For more things to do, check out my guide to Phnom Penh .

WHERE TO STAY IN PHNOM PENH : Mad Monkey – This is a lovely social hostel with a bar, restaurant, beer garden, and swimming pool. They organize all kinds of events and tours, so it’s easy to make friends here.

Days 27-29: Siem Reap Follow the Siem Reap and Angkor Wat itineraries from above.

If you have time, visit Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and UNESCO nature reserve. It is 52 kilometers (32 miles) from Siem Reap. Sailing down the river and around the lake gives you a look at how closely Cambodian life is tied to this major waterway. Guided tours to Tonle Sap start at $20 USD.

Day 30: Bangkok Head back to Bangkok for your flight home!

If you have three months to spend, you don’t want to have everything plotted and planned out to the day, like you might want to with the shorter itineraries above. Having flexibility to change plans is a must (and will make your travels much more enjoyable). On a trip of this length, you don’t want to burn yourself out too fast!

With three months, you have enough time to be flexible and still see a lot. I’d recommend rough planning in weeklong chunks.

MONTH ONE: Thailand

Week 1: Bangkok and Backpacking Kanchanaburi Province Follow the three-day Bangkok itinerary above, and extend your stay by a few days to take things slower and see even more of this vibrant city. You can also do more day trips or even multiday trips to the surrounding region.

When you’ve had your fill of bustling Bangkok, take your time heading north. Kanchanaburi Province is a great place to spend some time, as it’s home to a lush, undisturbed forest, wetlands, and mountains that are perfect for trekking, either on multiday tours or day trips from Bangkok . The area is very biodiverse, with two wildlife sanctuaries: Thung Yai Naresuan, and Huai Kha Khaeng.

However, its history is rather dark. The infamous Death Railway linking Myanmar and Thailand runs through here, which was built during World War II by prisoners of war and civilians. Around 90,000 civilian forced laborers and more than 12,000 Allied prisoners perished in the railway’s construction. The bridge over the River Kwai is also located here, built using POW labor and the subject of both a famous film and a book. While these sights are haunting reminders, they are an essential part of Thailand’s history.

Here are some options to consider for your meandering journey north:

Ayutthaya – Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767, when it was razed by the Burmese during a war. The city’s ruins, with its palaces, temples, monasteries, and statues, form an archaeological park that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s about 1.5 hours from Bangkok by train.

You can also visit on a day trip from Bangkok for just 1,105 THB.

Khao Yai National Park – Established in 1962, Khao Yai was Thailand’s first (and one of its best) national park and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s visually stunning and empty of tourists but filled with lush flora and fauna, bat caves, and even a few wild elephants. It’s about 2.5 hours north of Bangkok.

There are also day trips to Khao Yai from Bangkok starting at around 2,500 THB.

WHERE TO STAY : Greenleaf Guesthouse – This hostel has the best tour/accommodation deals in the area. Let them know when you’re arriving by train or bus, and they’ll pick you up at the station.

Sukhothai – Sukhothai was the Kingdom of Siam’s first capital city, in the 13th century. There are hundreds of ruined buildings here, including the royal palace and countless temples.

There are actually three ruined cities that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and since they’re a bit spread out, seeing them by bike is a fun way to cover a lot of distance. You can take a full-day or two-hour bike tour with Sukhothai Bicycle Tour .

WHERE TO STAY : Old City Boutique House – This hostel is in a great location, right near the entrance to the historical park. The guesthouse has AC, free breakfast, bike rentals, and friendly owners to help you with whatever you need!

Chiang Mai is the main starting point for all sorts of jungle trekking tours. I like the three-day ones the best, but the longer the tour, the more interesting and secluded places you’ll visit. Be careful with whom you sign up, as many guides simply walk with you and don’t tell you much about the land or wildlife.

Moreover, if you visit a tribal village, make sure that the money stays with the villagers, and that they aren’t being exploited, which unfortunately happens a lot.

If you prefer to do a few different day trips rather than multiday tours, TripGuru Thailand offers full-day tours to Doi Inthanon National Park and the Chiang Dao cave system , among others.

Week 4: Northern Thailand If you want to continue soaking up northern Thailand, a great way to do so is on a motorbike trip. Many people rent bikes and tour the countryside and take in the scenery. This area is particularly popular for a 1–3-day trip. Mai Hong Son Province offers a great loop, starting in Chiang Mai and ending in Pai.

Note: Make sure that if you’re renting a motorbike, you’re comfortable with driving it. And never ever drink and drive. Accidents are incredibly common.

Pai – Pai has grown as a tourist destination in more recent years, but it is still a great place to escape some of the craziness of the larger cities. It’s nestled in rolling green mountains and near incredible hiking trails. Stay on the outskirts of this backpacker town in a lovely little bungalow, rent a bike, traverse the hills, and bathe in the cool waterfalls.

Be sure to take a day trip to the Tham Lot Caves; you can stop off to swim in waterfalls and hot springs on the way.

WHERE TO STAY : The Famous Pai Circus Hostel – This is the best hostel in Pai, with a host of amenities, from air-conditioned dorms, comfortable mattresses, and bamboo bunk beds to an infinity pool, nightly bonfires, a fantastic buffet breakfast, free dinners, and overall, a great atmosphere.

Chiang Rai – Many people visit Chiang Rai on a day trip from Chiang Mai , expressly for the purpose of seeing the White Temple. This intricately designed complex with its reflective pools and shimmering white exterior is designed in the style of a Buddhist temple. However, it’s actually a work of art by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, and is still currently in the process of being completed.

WHERE TO STAY : Baan Mai Kradan Hostel – This sleek, modern, and centrally located hostel has free breakfast, fast Wi-Fi, comfortable pod-style beds, and plenty of indoor and outdoor common areas to relax in.

MONTH TWO: Laos and Vietnam

Week 5: Slow Boat to Luang Prabang Take the two-day slow boat to Luang Prabang. Once there, follow the Luang Prabang itinerary above, but at a slower pace. You can also spend some time in the surrounding, even smaller villages like Nong Kiew, a sleepy village located a few hours from Luang Prabang. The towering limestone cliffs surrounding it are ideal for experienced climbers, and there are many hiking trails leading to nearby waterfalls and caves. You can take the bus from the city for about 40,000-65,000 LAK.

WHERE TO STAY : Lamorn Guesthouse – This is an incredibly affordable guesthouse located right on the river. The rooms are basic but clean, each with its own private bathroom and air-conditioning.

Week 6: Vang Vieng and Vientiane Follow the itineraries for Vang Vieng and Vientiane above. Then, you can either choose to continue your trip in Laos by heading south to Pakse and 4,000 Islands (in which case, follow the itineraries outlined above), or head on to Vietnam.

If going to Vietnam, you can take an overnight bus to Hanoi or a quick flight from Vientiane. If flying, keep in mind that there are only direct flights a few times a week (otherwise you must connect through Bangkok), so plan ahead if going with that option.

It’s also one of the best places to eat endless bowls of pho, bun cha, or cheap bahn mi from food vendors on just about every street corner.

Start your visit by exploring the narrow streets of the Old Quarter. Its 2,000-year-old streets are a web of shopping opportunities and cheap eateries. There’s also a lot of fascinating Old World architecture that highlights the influence the French had on the area.

Hanoi is also a good base for doing multiday tours to postcard-perfect UNESCO World Heritage Site Ha Long Bay. One of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, the area comprises more than 3,000 islands, all with different activities on offer. Tours here usually last 3-5 days and can include sleeping on a boat or staying on some of the islands around the bay, as well as cave tours and kayaking. If you really want to splash out, take a 3-day luxury cruise .

If you don’t want to do a longer cruise, you can choose a two-day (overnight) cruise or a full-day trip from Hanoi ; however, given that you’re on a three-month adventure, I’d recommend going with the few-day options.

Other things to see and do in Hanoi include:

• The Temple of Literature
• See a water puppet show (an ancient Vietnamese art form)
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Dong Xuan Market
• Go on a food tour
• Quan Su Pagoda

For more things to do, check out my guide to Hanoi .

WHERE TO STAY : Little Hanoi Hostel – Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, this hostel has air conditioning, free breakfast, free welcome drinks, and — most importantly — clean, comfy rooms. The staff will help you book tours of the city and surrounding region.

It’s also an extremely popular place for ordering tailored clothing, which is one of the main reasons people come here. You can get anything made here — from custom-made suits to gowns to sundresses to leather boots to sneakers. The tailor shops will even mail all your goods home to you.

Otherwise, Hoi An makes for a relaxing destination in an otherwise hectic country, with the beach only a 15-minute bike-ride from town.

Some of the top things to do here include the following:

• Explore My Son Sanctuary: – This is one of the most important sites relating to the ancient Kingdom of Champa and is said to have been Vietnam’s religious and intellectual center. Even in their ruined state, the remaining Hindu temple structures are impressive. Go in the morning to beat the crowds and heat. A morning guided tour with transportation from Hoi An is the best option.
• Relax on the beach – An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are both close to Hoi An and great places to spend an afternoon. Cua Dai is designated as one of Vietnam’s five UNESCO World Heritage sites; both beaches offer soft white sand and excellent beachside restaurants.
• Attend the Full Moon Festival – Hoi An’s Full Moon Festival is held on the 14th day of the lunar cycle each month and is probably the best time to visit the city, if you don’t mind the crowds. This is a fun time to party with locals, as the streets come alive with folk music, plays, and dancing!
• Learn about (and eat!) all the food – Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and delicious. Hoi An offers a few ways to dive into this incredible cuisine: take a food tour , do a cooking class , or learn how to make Vietnamese coffee !

WHERE TO STAY : Vietnam Backpackers Hoi An Hostel – Located conveniently between the Old Town and the beach, this hostel has a great outdoor pool and terrace, tons of social events, small dorms (max. 6 beds), and rain-head showers with excellent pressure. If you stay in a private room, you’ll even get a free bicycle to use (rentals are also available if you’re staying in a dorm).

Ho Chi Minh City – My favorite Vietnamese city after Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is the largest and most chaotic in the country. Motorbikes, bicycles, cars, and rickshaws go wherever they please, and lots of street stands and markets spill into the traffic lanes.

It’s a metropolis with a billion things happening at once, and a lot to offer travelers. Stay a few days here to take in the wonderful shops, fantastic nightlife, delicious food, plentiful historic sites, and interesting (though propaganda-heavy) museums.

WHERE TO STAY : The Hideout – This is a conveniently located, social hostel with super clean rooms, free beer at the bar every day, and showers that you can use even after you check out. They organize many tours of the city and area as well.

MONTH THREE: Cambodia

If you’re looking to soak up some sun, Independence Beach and Otres Beach are probably your best bets. But mainly, Sihanoukville is a jumping-off point for other islands and beach towns in the area, such as:

Koh Rong – This island is a 45-minute ride from Sihanoukville. If you’re pressed for time, you can do it in a day trip, but stay overnight if you can. The beaches here are way better than on the mainland (and a lot less polluted), and there’s great snorkeling and diving.

Bokor National Park – Hike through a stunning rainforest or see the atmospheric ruins of the French aristocracy for whom Bokor was a big drawback in the day. You’ll have some amazing views, and there are ruins, waterfalls, and temples all around.

Kep – This quaint beach and fishing village is a quiet version of Sihanoukville but without a party atmosphere, therefore a nice place to relax near the ocean. It’s famous for its pepper crab and empty beaches. Sure, it’s quite sleepy and there’s not a lot to do, but it’s the perfect place to relax, read a book, and eat all the delicious crab. You can also spend some time on nearby Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay), a secluded and charming escape from the world if you’re looking to disconnect.

Kampot – This is another quiet town on the coast. Most people come here to enjoy the scenic riverside views as well as the rolling hills and pepper farms that surround the city. The area used to be a getaway for the French, so you’ll see old colonial architecture around. At night, the street near the old bridge is lined with fruit shake vendors. Try a million — the city is famous for them. Also, if you only do one thing in this entire itinerary, make sure it’s eating the ribs at the Rusty Keyhole — they are some of the best ribs I’ve ever had.

Week 11: Siem Reap and Angkor Wat Follow the above suggestions for Siem Reap and Angkor Wat but at a slower pace. There’s a lot to see and do in the area. You can easily spend several days just exploring Angkor Wat. You can also do more day trips into the surrounding region.

A great way to spend a day is to head to Koh Ker, located in the jungle around 2.5 hours from town. Koh Ker was briefly the capital of the Khmer Empire, and many of the temples here are over a thousand years old. It’s a massive archeological site that sees far fewer tourists than Angkor Wat.

For another fun day trip, head to Phnom Kulen, considered the country’s most sacred mountain. It’s located just 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Siem Reap and offers some amazing jungles, hiking, and picturesque waterfalls where you can take a dip to beat the heat. You can easily spend a day here. If you head up to the summit, there are some great views, as well as a large reclining Buddha statue. Try to arrive early, as the park fills up by lunchtime.

There’s seemingly an island for every type of traveler here. Some are overdeveloped, while others only have a single bungalow. Some of my favorites are Ko Samet, Ko Taruato, Ko Lanta, Ko Chang, Ko Tao, Ko Jum, Ko Lipe, Ko Samui, and the Similan Islands. You could easily spend weeks (or months) bopping around to different islands, but if you’re on your last week, just choose one or two, depending on what you’re looking for.

Some recommendations to get you started:

Ko Lipe – This lesser-known island is one of my favorite places in the world. There are amazing seafood meals, beautiful beaches, and warm waters in which to swim and snorkel . I came for three days and ended up staying for a month. In the last few years, it has become more developed, and it’s not the sleepy little island it used to be, but it’s still way less touristy than many other destinations in Thailand.

Phuket – Phuket is the biggest destination for tourism in Thailand. There are great beaches and amazing activities on this island. While most visitors stick to the overdeveloped south, if you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the crowds. In fact, the northern part of the island is one of my favorite places to visit in all of Thailand.

Ko Phangan – This island is home to the infamous Full Moon Party , one of the most famous parties in the world, with a lot of drinking, dancing, and drugs. Each bar has its own sound system, so you’ll hear different music loudly blasting onto the beach every few feet. The beach itself is lined with people selling alcohol, fire dancers putting on shows, and little booths selling glow-in-the-dark face paint.

Ko Tao – If you’re looking to dive in Thailand, go to Ko Tao , which caters specifically to divers. If you dive here, be sure to see Elephant Head Rock, as the reef is home to plenty of fish, snappers, rays, and turtles. Day trips start at 5,900 THB for two dives, including equipment and park fees. If you’ve never dived before, a day trip that teaches you all the basics starts at 2,500 THB while a four-day open water course starts at 11,000 THB.

After your time in the islands, head back to Bangkok for your return flight home.

If you’ve got even longer, this region has so much to offer — from Malaysia to Singapore to Indonesia and more!

The best time to visit Southeast Asia largely depends on your preferences, where exactly you’re going, and what you plan to do. But generally, the dry season, spanning from November to April, is prime time for travelers. During these months, countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos boast sunny skies, lower humidity levels, and comfortable temperatures.

If you don’t mind occasional rain showers, the shoulder season (from May to October) is much less crowded. You’ll get lower prices on accommodations too. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates.

This is all a vast generalization though, as it’s a big region and conditions vary drastically depending on where you are. Be sure to check my Southeast Asia Travel Guide and specific country guides for more information.

U.S. citizens don’t need a visa for many countries in Southeast Asia, and where a visa is required, it’s usually pretty easy to get. Assuming the purpose of your trip is tourism only, here are the latest visa requirements:

• Thailand: U.S. citizens can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days.
• Vietnam: U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam. The easiest option is an e-visa through the Vietnam Immigration website. The e-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days and does not allow for renewal from within the country. You can also get one through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
• Cambodia: U.S. citizens can get a visa on arrival at major entry points or apply in advance for an e-visa. Both options typically allow for stays of up to 30 days.
• Laos: U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Laos. Visas can be obtained on arrival at major entry points or in advance through a Laotian embassy or consulate. You can extend the visa for up to 60 days through the Department of Immigration in Vientiane.
• Myanmar (Burma): U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Myanmar. You can either get an e-visa online in advance or apply through a Burmese embassy or consulate.
• Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and the Philippines: U.S. citizens typically do not need visas for short stays (usually up to 30 days) in any of these countries.

Visa requirements do change periodically though, so be sure to check before your trip in case any of the above has changed. Also ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after the end of your trip and that you have enough blank pages for entry visas. While not all countries require this, most do!

Southeast Asia is one of the best regions to backpack in. It’s fun, affordable, safe, and has something for everyone. But it can be tricky to plan a trip here, as there is a ton to see and do. So, as you try to craft the perfect Southeast Asia itinerary, just keep in mind that plans change. You meet people or learn about something new, and all of a sudden your meticulous preparation goes out the window.

These days, I leave much more room in case plans change — because they always do. Give yourself that wiggle room. That way, no matter what comes your way, you’ll be able to adapt.

Be flexible. Go slow.

That’s how you plan an amazing itinerary. Not only to Southeast Asia but anywhere in the world!

Book Your Trip to Southeast Asia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. It is my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as it has the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money too.

Want More Information on Southeast Asia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Southeast Asia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Malaysia , Thailand , The Philippines , Vietnam

3 month southeast asia itinerary & backpacking route.

Table of Contents

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Looking for the perfect Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months? You found it! There are so many fascinating destinations and beautiful sights to see in this region. If you have no idea where to start or how to get around, fret not as I’m sharing my tried and tested Southeast Asia backpacking route.

Read next: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

Where to go during 3 months in Southeast Asia

The countries I’ll be talking about in this blog are Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. If you’ve yet to decide which countries to visit, you might be best off reading my guide to the best things to do in Southeast Asia ordered by country. If you know where you want to go, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, I’ll share 3 travel itineraries for spending 3 months in Southeast Asia. The first is for the big four: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam . This Asia backpacking route can be explored entirely by land with no flights needed. The second two Southeast Asia itineraries include Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines although, a word to the wise, I don’t recommend trying to see all eight countries in three months. It would be insanely busy!

3 MONTHS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA ESSENTIALS Copy of Lonely Planet Southeast Asia on a shoestring Book buses and trains: 12GoAsia Book flights on Skyscanner Accommodation: Browse Hostels (Hostelworld) // Browse hotels (Booking.com) Tours: GetYourGuide For foodies: A Chef’s Tour Stay connected: an Airalo e-SIM for 18 Asian countries Travel insurance:  True Traveller  (European travellers) /  Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /  Safety Wing  (digital nomads) Essential reading: Things to do Southeast Asia / Vietnam travel guide / Backpacking the Philippines / Malaysia itinerary / Bali itinerary

Before we get stuck into my Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary, I want to share…

The perfect Southeast Asia backpacking route

I believe I’ve hacked the perfect route around Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. It was trial and error because I definitely did it ‘wrong’ during my first trip. My first attempt at a Southeast Asia backpacking route was from northern to southern Laos to visit Four Thousand Islands on the border of Cambodia only to travel back up (which took almost two days!) for my flight to Vietnam. Then I ended up in Cambodia two months later. In retrospect, there’s a more sensible route…

Perfect Southeast Asia backpack route:

• After seeing Thailand, take the slow boat from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang, Laos
• Travel down Laos by bus to the Four Thousand Islands
• Cross the border to Cambodia
• After seeing Cambodia, cross the border to Vietnam (by boat or bus) and arrive in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh)
• Travel up Vietnam and finish in Hanoi.

I believe this is the perfect Southeast Asia backpacking route. You won’t pay for any flights (which is great for Planet Earth) and you’ll take the more adventurous, scenic route. This 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking route doesn’t include Myanmar, Malaysia, the Philippines or Indonesia so keep reading as I’ll include an itinerary for these later.

How to get around Southeast Asia

One of the best things about backpacking Southeast Asia is how easy and affordable it is to get about. Here are the main options: Flights – there are numerous budget airlines in Asia including Nok Air, Lion Air, Scoot and Air Asia. Book them on AirAsia or Skyscanner . Buses – this is a popular way to travel in Asia and usually my preferred option. Many of the Southeast Asia backpacker buses are comfortable with reclining seats, aircon, and snacks included with the ticket. Use 12GoAsia to book and compare prices. Trains – you can travel by train in various parts of Southeast Asia. These are a scenic way to travel and usually very comfortable. Trains can also be booked on 12GoAsia . Boat – don’t overlook boat as a way to get around. The slow boat from Northern Thailand to Laos and the bus and boat along the Mekong between Cambodia and Vietnam are adventures in their own right.

My top tip for backpacking Southeast Asia – travel early in the morning for short journeys and throughout the night for longer ones. Yes, it feels a bit rough but it saves you so much valuable time.

How long to spend in Southeast Asia

How long is a piece of string? I spent almost a year in Southeast Asia from 2015-16 and another year from 2018-19. But I’m aware most people probably don’t have that much time on their hands, especially if they don’t work online. I would suggest spending 3 months in Southeast Asia at a minimum. The following 3 month Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary will help you see the best of the region. Note – these itineraries are busy and fast-paced to incorporate as much as possible. Don’t be afraid to stay longer in places you love and miss a few stops!

Want to stay connected while travelling? Download an Airalo e-SIM and connect as soon as you land in Asia. Browse packages for individual countries or get the Asialink card for 18 countries.

#1 – Southeast Asia 3 month itinerary (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam)

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary is a classic. This popular section of what’s often called the ‘Banana Pancake trail’ is the perfect place for beginner travellers, solo travellers and those who’ve never backpacked before. It’s safe, affordable and you’ll meet plenty of other travellers. There are beaches, adrenaline adventures and bucket list experiences aplenty…

Overview: 1 month Thailand , 2 weeks Laos, 2 weeks Cambodia and 1 month Vietnam .

Weeks 1-2: Southern Thailand

After flying into Bangkok, make your way down to the islands by night bus or flight. There are two main clusters of Thai islands : – Koh Tao (famous for diving), Koh Samui and Koh Phanang (famous for the Full Moon Party) off the east coast – Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Koh Yao Yai further south off Krabi on the west coast. If you have 2 weeks in Thailand, include these stops in your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary…

Days 1-2: Bangkok. A two-day Bangkok itinerary is enough time to see highlights including the Grand Palace , Wat Pho , Wat Arun and Chinatown. Catch a flight to… Days 3-4: Koh Samui . Visit the Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple and explore beaches and waterfalls – you can also join this tour to explore. Swap this stop for Koh Phangan if it times with a Full Moon Party. Read about the differences between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan . Days 5-7: Koh Tao. Try diving and spend longer if you wish to complete your Open Water diving qualification. Catch a ferry to Surat Thani and a bus to… Days 8-10: Krabi. Explore Railay Beach and its caves, hike to Wat Tham Sua temple, and visit Krabi Hot Springs. Days 11-12: Koh Lanta . My favourite Thai island has loads to do from boat trips, kayaking, volunteering at Lanta Animal Welfare and visiting caves, beaches and national parks. Days 13-14: Koh Phi Phi or, if you’re not a fan of parties, visit quieter Koh Yao Yai .

Read next: the ultimate guide to solo female travel in Thailand

Weeks 3-4: Bangkok and Northern Thailand

After two weeks of island paradise, get your culture fix by travelling back to Bangkok and making your way towards Northern Thailand. The mountains, countryside and temples are a total contract to the south. Here’s my itinerary for 2 weeks in Northern Thailand : Days 15-16: Return to Bangkok. Take a trip to Ayutthaya , Thailand’s ancient temple site.

Days 17:18 : Take a bus or train to Sukhothai , a UNESCO site populated from 1238 until 1438. Days 19-21: Chiang Mai. This small city in Northern Thailand is one of my favourites in Asia. Take a bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or catch a flight. Check out my Chiang Mai itinerary . Days 22-24: Pai. This hippie town in the mountains is a lovely spot for a couple of days exploring hot springs and Pai Canyon.

Days 25-26: Head back to Chiang Mai and take a trip to Doi Inthanon National Park with GetYourGuide . Alternatively, take longer overnight hikes from Chiang Mai . Days 27-29: Chiang Rai. Not only is this town a fantastic place for temple-hopping but it’s an essential stop if you’re heading to Laos. Tour companies will take you to Huay Xai to begin the boat ride. Check out my 2 day Chiang Rai itinerary . Day 30: Slow boat to Laos. Follow my Southeast Asia backpacking route by taking a 2-day slow boat from Thailand to Laos and soaking up some amazing scenery along the way.

Weeks 5-6: Laos

The small, landlocked country of Laos may be lesser-visited but it’s well worth including in your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. Here’s how to spend 2 weeks…

Days 33-36: Luang Prabang. The slow boat from Thailand arrives in Luang Prabang. Things to do in Luang Prabang include temple-hopping, shopping and eating at the night market, watching sunset from Mount Phusi and swimming in Kuang Si Waterfall. Days 37-38: Vang Vieng: Spend a couple of days in eco-adventure paradise, kayaking, canoeing, abseiling and trekking.

The most popular tours in Vang Vieng:

• 🛶 Experience adventure in Vang Vieng by kayaking on the Nam Song River and tubing inside Tham Nam None Cave with this tour
• 🏞️ Enjoy an easy half-day zip lining experience surrounded by green beautiful forests and mountains
• ⛰️ Discover some of the most beautiful caves and trails available in Vang Vieng with this full day trekking tour

Days 39-40: Vientiane : The capital of Laos has a few cool attractions including Pha That Luang temple and Buddha Park . It’s also a good place to try tasty Vientiane food . Days 40-41: Kong Lor Caves. These huge limestone caves in central Laos can be explored by boat. Days 42-44: Pakse . Travel from Kong Lor to Pakse. Visit Wat Luang Temple and learn about the region’s culture at Champasak Historical Heritage Museum. Days 45-47: Don Det, Four Thousand Islands. Three months in Southeast Asia can be busy so take some time to relax. The Four Thousand Islands are scattered in the Mekong connecting Laos and Cambodia. Bag yourself a $5 beach hut on Don Det and book a kayaking tour to spot river dolphins.

When you’re done, continue my Southeast Asia backpacking route by booking your transportation from Don Det to Siem Reap, Cambodia .

Weeks 7-8: Cambodia

Days 48-51: Siem Reap . It wouldn’t be a trip to Cambodia without marvelling at Angkor Wat , a Hindu temple site dating back to the 12th century. Stay in Siem Reap town and hire a tuk-tuk driver who will bring you to the temples for sunrise.

Days 53-53: Kep . Once an elite French seaside town, Kep is now a popular stop for travellers. Hike in Kep National Park, soak up the sunset and sample fresh seafood. Days 54-55: Kampot. This is favourite stop for foodie travellers who come from far and wide to sample famous Kampot crab seasoned with Kampot pepper. Days 56-57: Koh Rong . Travel from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong island known for its diving, snorkelling and lively beach bars. Days 58-59: Koh Rong Samloem . Take a trip to the smaller and more peaceful Koh Rong Samloem. There are fewer busy beach bars and more empty beaches.

Days 60-62: Phnom Penh. Explore Cambodia’s capital and visit tragic but important locations, the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide . Book activities on GetYourGuide . Afterwards, catch a 3-day boat and bus combo ticket from Phnom Penh to Saigon .

Weeks 9-12: Vietnam

I adore Vietnam! It’s well placed on the Southeast Asia backing route and home to cities, beaches, mountains and more. Spend four weeks here to finish up your Southeast Asia itinerary.

Read next: The ultimate Vietnam itinerary

Days 65-68: Saigon . Explore the War Remnants Museum, Chu Chi Tunnels, Walking Street and Ben Thanh Market. Follow my Saigon itinerary .

Days 69-70: Mui Ne . Try your hand at sandboarding. Days 71-72: Da Lat . This cool, mountainous part of Vietnam is known for coffee, canyoning and countryside tours . Day 73-74: Nha Trang . I don’t love Nha Trang but you’ll need to stop over to break up the journey up the coast. Take a trip to the nearby hot spas. Days 75-78: Hoi An . This quaint city is a must for any Southeast Asia backpack itinerary. Include the Ancient Town and My Son Temples in your Hoi An itinerary . Day 79: the Hai Van Pass . Cruise the coastline by scooter or Jeep to soak up some of Vietnam’s best scenery. Days 80-81: Hue . Spend 2 days in Hue to explore Vietnam’s ancient capital and explore the temples.

Read next: guide to travelling solo in Vietnam as a woman

Days 82-83: Phong Nha National Park . The largest caves in the worlds are found in Phong Nha . Take day trips from the town at the centre of the national park. Board a night bus to… Days 84-85: Ninh Binh.  Spend 2 days in Ninh Binh . Explore mountains and countryside temples. Days 86-87: Hanoi. Vietnam’s atmospheric capital is one of my favourite places. Spend 3 days in Hanoi to catch the highlights. Days 88-90: Sapa.  A few days hiking in Sapa is a must for nature lovers. Days 91-93: Ha Long Bay.  Spend a couple of nights cruising between islands in Ha Long Bay. Book a 2-day Hanoi cruise to finish your 3 month trip!

3 month Southeast Asia itinerary – more than the big 4!

Want to do more than Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia? I don’t blame you. The next two Southeast Asia itineraries include some of my other favourite countries. Add to your Southeast Asia backpacking route:

Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore , Indonesia and the Philippines

#2 – Southeast Asia itinerary (inc Myanmar and Malaysia)

This 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary is similar to the one above but it spends a little less time in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos to allow for a month exploring Myanmar and Malaysia .

Overview: 2 weeks in Malaysia, 3 weeks in Thailand, 2 weeks in Myanmar, 10 days in Laos, 10 days in Cambodia, 2 weeks in Vietnam

Weeks 1-2: Malaysia

Malaysia is truly one of my favourite countries which is why I recommend visiting during your 3 months in Southeast Asia. In my 2 week Malaysia itinerary , I share three different itineraries suited to city, beach and nature lovers. Here’s a quick overview:

Days 1-2: Kuala Lumpur. Explore highlights in the Malaysian capital like the Petronas Towers, Chinatown, the Batu Caves and Little India. Use my 2 day KL itinerary to plan your trip. Days 3-5: Taman Negara . This ancient rainforest and national park in central Malaysia makes a great escape from the big city. You can stay overnight (I spent 3 days trekking and spotting wildlife on guided nature walks) or if you’re short on time, take a day tour from KL . Days 6-8: Cameron Highlands. Drink tea in the cool, lofty climate of this ex-British hill station. Days 9-11: Penang. Stay in Georgetown and explore the vibrant capital of Penang Island. Once you’re done with street art , street food , cool cafes and culture, you can take a day trip to Kek Lok Si Temple .

Days 12-14: Langkawi . Spend a few days snorkelling, beach-basking, taking boat trips and other activities in Langkawi , Malaysia’s most beautiful island.

How to get from Malaysia to Thailand: Of course you can fly from KL or Penang airports but this Southeast Asia backpacking route is all about overlanding! You can travel by bus and boat from Langkawi to the Thai islands without catching a flight. The Langkawi ferry arrives into Koh Lipe from where you can catch another ferry to Koh Lanta.

Week 3-6: Thailand

Spend 2-3 weeks in Southern Thailand depending how much you like beaches and nightlife. An itinerary could look like this (for descriptions about these places, see my #1 itinerary above). Days 16-19: Koh Lanta . Relax in island paradise. Days 20-21: Koh Phi Phi . Party and snorkel. Days 22-23: Krabi . Visit beaches and rock climb. Days 24-26: Koh Tao . Try your hand at diving or check out Koh Samui or Phangan instead. Days 27-30: Bangkok . Explore the Grand Palace and eat street food. Days 31-34: Chiang Mai . Visit temples and night markets. Head from Chiang Mai to Myanmar by bus or flight.

Week 6-7: Myanmar

Note – in 2022, Myanmar is not safe for travel due to the political situation. I will update this post if this changes. One of the most captivating and culturally rich countries I’ve been to is Myanmar, a must for your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. Tourism is still fresh compared to Thailand and it’s the perfect place to get off-the-beaten-track and see how locals live. Here’s how to spend 2 weeks… Days 35-36: Yangon. Explore the vibrant and busy city of Yangon. Visit 99-metre Shwedagon Pagoda, eat barbecued seafood on 19th Street, walk around Kandawgyi Lake and take a trip to pilgrimage site, the Golden Rock. Days 37-40: Bagan. With 1,000 years of history and hundreds of ancient temples to explore, there’s nowhere quite like Old Bagan. Stay within the temple site and explore the countryside by e-bike or day tour , finding shrines and pagodas as you go.

Days 41-43: Kalaw to Inle Lake trek. Arrive by bus into Kalaw and locate Sam’s Family restaurant and trekking company. They’ll take you on a multi-day adventure through the countryside destined for Inle Lake. Days 44-45: Inle Lake. Spend a few days exploring Inle Lake by boat, watching local fishermen row with their feet and visiting floating markets. Finish your day with a sunset Inle Lake tour . Days 46-48: Mandalay. Visit Kuthodaw Pagoda, travel to U Bein Bridge and watch sunset from the top of Mandalay Hill.

From Myanmar, fly back to Northern Thailand. When you arrive back in Chiang Mai, you can continue your Southeast Asia backpacking trip by taking a bus to Chiang Rai and boarding the slow boat to Laos. Alternatively, fly into Luang Prabang.

Week 8-9: Laos

Spend 2 weeks exploring the highlights of Laos. For descriptions about these stops, see my #1 itinerary above. Days 50-52: Luang Prabang. Visit temples and swim in Kuang Si Falls. Days 53-54: Vang Vieng. Try adrenaline activities and explore the countryside. Days 55-56: Vientiane . Visit the Laos capital. Days 57-58: Kong Lor . Cruise through this enormous cave complex by boat. Days 59-60: Pakse. Stop overnight. Days 61-63: Don Det, Four Thousand Islands. Relax and kayak to see river dolphins.

Week 9-10: Cambodia

Spend 2 weeks exploring the highlights of Laos. For descriptions about these stops, see my #1 Southeast Asia itinerary above. Days 65-67: Siem Reap . Explore Angkor Wat. Days 68-69: Kep . Relax and hike. Days 70-71: Kampot . Eat Kambot crab. Days 72-73: Koh Rong . Party and snorkel. Days 74-75: Koh Rong Samloem . Chill in paradise. Days 76-78: Phnom Penh. Catch a boat and bus combo ticket towards Saigon or for a quicker journey, a bus from Phnom Penh to Saigon.

Weeks 10-12: Vietnam

With two weeks in Vietnam, following this itinerary. Check out my 2 week Vietnam itinerary for more details. Days 80-81: Saigon. Explore War history and eat street food. Days 82-85: Hoi An. Soak up Hoi An Ancient Town and take day trips. Catch a night train from Da Nang to Hanoi. Days 86-87: Hanoi. Shop and eat in Hanoi Old Quater. Days 88-90: Ha Long Bay. Take a 1 or 2-night boat cruise. Days 91-93: Sapa. Hike in the mountains to finish this Asia itinerary.

#3 – Southeast Asia itinerary (inc Indonesia and the Philippines) 

For this final Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary, I’ll include two of my favourite countries: Indonesia and the Philippines. If you’re keen for beaches, diving and island-hopping, this is the Asia itinerary for you!

Overview: 2 weeks in Thailand, 1 week in Laos, 1 week in Cambodia, 2 weeks in Vietnam, 3 weeks in Indonesia, 3 weeks in the Philippines

Weeks 1-2: Thailand

Spend a week in the Southern Islands and a week in the North. For descriptions about these places, see my #1 Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months (above). Days 1-2: Bangkok . Visit temples, museums, eat and party. Days 3-4: Krabi . Hike and rock climb. Days 5-7: Koh Lanta . Relax, snorkel and hike. Days 8-10: Koh Phi Phi . Enjoy the nightlife. Catch a ferry to Phuket and flight to… Days 11-13: Chiang Mai . Take cooking courses and visit temples. Days 13-14: Chiang Rai. Board the slow boat to Laos from Huay Xai.

Week 3: Laos

For a flying trip to Laos, stick to three locations. For descriptions about these places, see my #1 itinerary above. Days 16-17: Luang Prabang . Eat, temple-hop and chase waterfalls. Days 18-19: Vang Vieng. Take eco tours. Days 20-23: Don Det, Four Thousand Islands . Relax, unwind and spot dolphins.

Week 4: Cambodia

For a flying trip to Cambodia, stick to three locations. For descriptions about these places, see my #1 itinerary above. Days 25-26: Siem Reap . Marvel at Angkor Wat. Days 27-28: Kampot. Beaches and seafood. Days 29-30: Phnom Penh. Museums and history.

Weeks 5-6: Vietnam

Spend a glorious two weeks catching the highlights of Vietnam. Follow my 2 week Vietnam itinerary mentioned above. Days 33-34: Saigon. History and street food. Days 35-37: Hoi An. Wander lantern-lined streets and visit Hoi An cafes . Days 38-40: Hanoi. Explore the vibrant capital. Days 41-43: Ha Long Bay . Take a boat cruise . Days 44-45: Sapa. Hiker’s paradise!

Weeks 7-9: Indonesia

The captivating country of Indonesia is comprised of 17,000 islands, of which Bali, Lombok, the Gili trio and the Nusa islands are the most popular and accessible on the Southeast Asia backpacking route. While there are countless lesser-visited islands to explore, with just 3 weeks in Indonesia , I would suggest exploring both Java and Bali. Follow my Asia backpacking itinerary…

Week 7 (days 46-53): Java . Fly into Yogyakarta (you may need to transfer in Jakarta), the culture capital of Java island. Spend up to four days in Yogyakarta to explore the city’s highlights, sample Javanese food and take a day trip to Borobudur and Prambanan temple sites. Head overland towards Mount Bromo, an active volcano that you can hike for sunrise. Fly from Juanda Airport into Denpasar, Bali. Alternatively, take an overland tour (usually lasting 9 days) from Yogyakarta to Bali visiting Malang and Mount Bromo en route. This arrives in Bali by ferry. Weeks 8-9 (days 54-68) Bali : Spend two weeks in Bali to get the best of the island, from rich Hindu culture, unique Balinese architecture and fresh, veggie-friendly Balinese cuisine . Be sure to get off-the-beaten-track and find the Bali hidden gems especially in North Bali !

2 weeks in Bali

– 3 days in Ubud . Visit temples, rice fields, do yoga and indulge in the Ubud food scene. – 3 days in Canggu . Relax, eat, surf, repeat! – 3 days in Uluwatu . Visit Uluwatu Temple for sunset. – 4 days on Nusa Penida island. Swim with manta rays!

Weeks 9-12: The Philippines

I spent two whole months in the Philippines and can safely say it’s one of the most beautiful countries on earth. If you don’t have that long, no worries – just follow this Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months. This condensed version whizzes around the Philippines’ highlights in just 3 weeks. There are countless Filipino islands to visit so do your research and pick the ones best suited to you. This 3 week Philippines itinerary includes Coron, Palawan, Cebu and Siargao. Day 69: Manilla. I didn’t love this city so I would recommend moving on fairly quickly to… Days 70-73: Coron . On this picture-perfect island, you can dive a shipwreck and explore beaches aplenty. Day 74: Ferry to El Nido , Palawan .

Days 75-77: Island hop in El Nido . Spend a couple of days taking boat trips, hiking to Taraw Peak and visiting Nacpan Beach. Days 78-79: Port Barton . Take more boat trips in Port Barton and find hidden gems in this less touristic version of El Nido. Days 80-82: Puerto Princesa . Visit the Underground River and watch prisoners perform hip hop dance shows to aid their rehabilitation at Iwahig Jail . Day 83: Fly to Cebu . This busy city isn’t the greatest so I’d suggest boarding a bus to… Days 84-86: Moalboal . Here you can snorkel with turtles and sardine shoals, hike to Osmena Peak and swim in Kawasan Falls. Days 87-90: Siargao. Finish your Southeast Asia itinerary in paradise! Things to do in Siargao include learning to surf and taking boat trips to nearby islands. To spend more time here, consider skipping Cebu and Moalboal.

Essentials for 3 months in Southeast Asia

• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Copy of Lonely Planet Southeast Asia
• A GoPro if you’re into making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
• Sustainability: stainless steel reusable water bottle to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Travel luggage: Osprey Farpoint backpack ( men’s ) ( women’s )
• Microfibre quick-drying towel
• Security: A handy bum bag with secure zip .

Southeast Asia bucket list

Check out my ultimate Asia bucket list including 101 experiences to tick off during your Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months. For a quick rundown, here are my top 15… – Go temple-hopping in Chiang Mai – Take a Muay Thai boxing class – Celebrate Songkran Festival in Bangkok – Cruise through Ha Long Bay by boat in Vietnam – Watch sunset over Angkor Wat – Trek through misty mountains and earn about minority groups during a Sapa tour in Vietnam – Eat famous Penang street food in Malaysia – Climb the rainbow staircase at the Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur – Visit the world’s largest Buddhist temple site, Borobudur on Java Island, Indonesia – Dive with manta rays around the Nusa Islands, Indonesia – Dive a shipwreck in Coron, the Philippines – Take a cooking class in Hoi An, Vietnam (or anywhere else!) – Stay in a hostel and explore the nightlife with new friends – Learn a few words of a new language – Learn a new skill like kayaking, surfing or boxing.

Thanks for reading my Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary!

I hope you find it easy to follow my Southeast Asia backpacking route and have countless fantastic experiences along the way! Let me know how you get on.

If you liked it, please share it!

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked my 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary? Pin it for later! 

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

41 thoughts on “ 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary & Backpacking Route ”

What was your daily budget in SO Asia?

Probably about £30 per day!

The last plan is insane! i genuinely think i wanna follow it and do it! one thing tho, how do you commute between all these spots? it will be my first time travelling solo, so a bit nervous as you can imagine

Hello! Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam can all be done by land (mainly bus), Bali you usually need taxis to get around, and Philippines is about flights and boats! Most things can be booked there: just ask at your accom! 🙂 enjoy your trip!

Suuuuch a great website – thank you so much for the insanely helpful info ✌️

Thanks Raph! Enjoy your trip

Hi such great itineraries! i would like to follow the last plan but im a bit unsure how to get from sapa to Indonesia ive tried googling flights but cant find any. Any help would be great thank you!

Hi Elle! Glad you liked them. I would suggest bussing it back to Hanoi to get a flight 🙂

Hi, I’m looking to do the same route for 3 months, do you know how much money you left more or less between everything, to have an idea of the budget to take, thanks.

Hi Mark! On a backpackers budget, I’d say you could do it for as little as $1000 a month 🙂

Hi, thank you for these itineraries they’re amazing! I’m thinking of doing the last one including the phillipines/indonesia – in terms of budgeting does the above budget of approx 1000 dollars a month include flights between countries etc? I can see for some of these they’re super cheap but some a bit pricier so just wanted to triple check. Thank you!

Hi Lara! Great question, I would say my budget of 1000 did not include flights as I mainly took buses where possible. Best add a bit to the budget for them!

Hi, your blog has been so useful for me in planning my backpacking trip next year, they’re great itineraries! I’m probably going to follow your 3 month itinerary for the big 4 to start with, as then have another 3 months to spend in Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia. I was wondering if you had a map or link to map of your 3 month itinerary with all the locations you visited? As would be great to see how all the locations look on a map to plan travel between those. Thanks

Hi B! I just made and added a map for each itinerary so check back:)

Hey Rose, I love your plans!! Just a quick one about the big 4 how did you get between them without flights and how much did it cost you. Thankyou so much!

Hello! Cambodia to Thailand can be done by bus; Northern Thailand to Laos can be done by bus and boat; Laos to Cambodia can be done by land too and so can Southern Vietnam to Cambodia by bus and boat. The only place you’ll want to fly is Laos to Northern Vietnam as the bus is hellish.

Check 12go for prices!

Hey Rose, really enjoyed reading through your guide as i am preparing my trip to the south at the end of this year. I will do slight the opposite, as i will start in Hanói and make my way down these countries as i plan to end my trip in Australia!

My question is related to Visas! do you have a guide or any advice how i can easily manage to get visas between the different countries? I am slightly worried about this. Apologies if you have this information in your guide but could’t find it.

Hi Jay, glad you liked the guide and hope you have an amazing trip!

All the visas vary per country and depending on what your passport is, and they change from time to time. So I don’t like to give advice and it be wrong – so I would recommend researching them individually 🙂

Hi Rose! This post has been super helpful learning the must see spots and some suggestions with routes. I am planning to go to South East Asia starting Oct/Nov until end of April. Do you have any suggestion on where to start so the weather works in the countries along the way. (Wanting to hit the 6 countries you listed)

Hi Sophia, sounds like a great trip! To my knowledge, they are all pretty good in that season… Apart from Northern Vietna which is cold in winter so maybe you want to save that region until like March!

Hi Rose! How far would you book accomodation and flights in advance?

Hello – accommodation you can do last minute, but flights between Asian countries I’d do a month in advance. For your flights out to Asia, try and do a few months before!

Hi Rose Very helpful post! Would you say that May-July might be too hot/humid/rainy for doing Thailand (including the gulf-side islands), Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam? Ideally would be a better trip Jan- April but timing means I’m likely to travel in May/ June from the UK. I know Malaysia and Indonesia are fine/great May- Sept but seems less so for Thailand/Indochina. Any thoughts?

Hello! I have only been in Vietnam in that season and it’s pretty hot but you can work around it. Not too sure about the others, sorry!

Hey Rose, awesome itineraries thank you 🙂 How far in advance would you recommend booking cross-border trains, boats and buses between South East Asian countries?

Hello, just a day or so before is fine!

Really great article. Thanks for taking the time to explain things in such great detail in a way that is easy to understand.

Absolutely Brilliant Rose Old fart going solo and planning 9-10mths. It’s given me the heads up ive been looking for to look into. Its either 1 or 3 Tks

Hey David! Have a amazing time!

Hey! I love this itinerary. I want to travel to SOA beginning of next year and want to take a very similar route to this one. I initially planned Feb – Apr, but someone warned me about burning season in north Thailand & Laos. Do you have any experience with this issue & how bad is it? If I start in January, are my chances of avoiding this better? Anyway, thanks for this post, it’s helped me tons with planning!

Hello, yes it’s pretty bad! I would avoid the region in Feb and March. Hope you can work around it and have a fab trip!

Hi Rose, this is super helpful – thank you! My wife and I will be spending 6 months in SE Asia next year and want too also include Borneo to go and try and see the orangutans. Would you recommend going from Bali or after the Philippines (potentially on the way back to KL or Bangkok)

Hi Laura, thanks for reading! I think you’ll find it easier and cheaper to get a return flight from KL so maybe do it as a side trip from there? That’s what I did anyway!

Incredible post thank you! Saved for our trip in a year’s time!

Woah, I got tired and anxious whilst reading? Btw, how did you manage accomodations? Did you book them in advance or book them as you arrive to the place? There’s a lot of jumping.

Lol, yes a lot of travel can be tiring and I’m sure anxiety-inducing for some. I usually just book on Hostelworld on my phone the day before arriving!

Hi! Thank you for such detailed itineraries. I’m thinking of doing the last one but only Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia and Philippines (leaving out Laos and Vietnam). But I only have 6-8 weeks. Do you think this would be possible?

Hi Emma, yes I think so, I would spend the most time in Thailand and Malaysia… Maybe just pick 1-2 places in the Philippines as moving around islands is time consuming!

Hi Rose, Thank you so much for this itinerary! I was wondering (in terms of the 3-month big four trail) if it could work better to fly from the UK to Phuket and start there then work our way up to Bangkok so that we don’t have to double-back on ourselves? Then follow the rest of the trail from there. We are yet to book our flights and thought this could be a good option?

Hello yes great idea! Enjoy!

Thanks Paula!

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Three Awesome Southeast Asia Travel Routes For An Unforgettable Trip

Ready for an epic southeast Asia road trip? Here are three unmissable itineraries for the trip of a lifetime.

Southeast Asia. The land of majestic views, awesome beaches and unimaginable adventures. 

So… You’ve decided on your dream trip and now you’re wondering what’s the best Southeast Asia travel route to take. 

From Angkor Wat and Siem Reap to Krabi and Vang Vieng, we don’t want to hype ourselves up too much, but boyyyy we have put together a killer trio of itineraries. You’ll struggle to decide which Asia trip itinerary to choose (sorry, not sorry).

Whether you’re a beach lover, a culture addict, an adventurer or someone who’s just keen to see a little bit of everything, here are three one-month Southeast Asia travelling routes to help you rock your trip.

Ready? Pack your bags and book those flights, let’s get going…

South East Asia Travelling Routes: At A Glance

• The Beach Lover’s Dream: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia
• The Cultural Odyssey: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar
• Adventure and Adrenaline: Vietnam, Laos, Thailand

Travelling Southeast Asia Route 1: The Beach Lovers’ Dream

Southeast Asia has more beaches than you could ever visit, even if you were travelling for a year. It’s a beach bum’s paradise. 

But which beaches do you choose? Here’s a Southeast Asia 1 month itinerary with the best beaches on the subcontinent. 

Day 1-3: Ho Coc Beach, Vietnam

Why go to Ho Coc?

*Checks watch* How long have we got? Ho Coc is a haven for rest and relaxation. We’d wager a bet that Ho Coc Beach is the most beautiful beach on the southern coast of Vietnam, with golden sands and crystal clear blue waters. 

Tip: Try to visit in the middle of the week when it’s much quieter and you will have the beach to yourself.

How to get to Ho Coc from Ho Chi Minh City?

Fly into Ho Chi Minh City, and make your way to Ho Coc Beach Resort. The cheapest way of doing this is to hire a car, which will take around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Suggested Stay: Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort

Day 4-6: Phú Quốc

Why go to Phú Quốc?

Alright, I know we hyped up Ho Coc, but you should go to Phú Quốc as the island has some of the best beaches that Vietnam has to offer. Including its most popular beaches, Long Beach and Star Beach. 

Sink down into the golden sand and admire the swaying coconut palms (maybe accompanied by the delectable martinis from the beach bar). 

Make sure that you stay on the beach for sunset at least one day- Phú Quốc is famous for the dazzling light show it puts on every evening.

Suggested Stay: The Shells Resort & Spa

How to get to Phú Quốc from Ho Coc

It’s an early start today and drive your car back up to Ho Chi Minh City. You then need to take a bus or taxi to Ho Chi Minh Mien Tay, and then jump on the Kumho Samco Bus to Rach Gia. 

Once there, take the ferry to Phú Quốc and head onwards to your hotel. This route will take you a little over 9 hours, if you time things right. 

Day 7-10: Koh Rong Samolem and Pineapple Island, Cambodia

Why go to Koh Rong Samloem?

Koh Rong Samolem, only 9km long and 4km wide, is one of the main beach destinations in Cambodia . This spot is part of a tiny cluster of islands and, don’t tell the others, but this one is our fave.

There are great places to snorkel, kayak, mountain bike and even jungle-trek all over the island. Not to mention sun-bathing on the island’s beautiful beaches. 

They also hold Full Moon parties at Good Vibz Camp on the island during the high season. If you have more time, spend at least a few more days exploring the cool things to do in Cambodia.

Suggested Stay: Sok San Beach Resort

How to get from Phú Quốc to Koh Rong Samolem

Catch the ferry from Phú Quốc to Hà Tiên, and then take a taxi to Kampot. From Kampot, take a bus to Sihanoukville, and then a ferry to Koh Rong Samloem. This route should take about 9 and a half hours.

Day 11-14: Ko Samui and Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand

Why go to Koh Samui?

This Southeast Asia travel route is all about the beaches – and there’s no way we could miss Koh Samui off the list.

It’s been a long day of travelling, we’ll give you that. But Koh Samui is more than ready to reward you for your efforts with some spectacular beaches.

Our favourites are Choeng Mon, Taling Ngam (which is the best for the sunset), and Bang Po. The latter has a reputation for being the most laid-back beach in Northern Samui – and I don’t disagree.

By now, after spending pretty much two weeks travelling Southeast Asia on a quest for the best beaches, you should be pretty relaxed. While there’s plenty of scope for more of the same in Koh Samui, take one of your three days to catch the 20 minute ferry ride to Koh PhaNgan. 

Pha Ngan doesn’t really need an introduction: the beautiful island is renowned for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and of course its huge full-moon party .

If you have more time, take a detour to Koh Tao, the diver’s mecca and one of the cheapest places to get your PADI qualification in the world. 

Is this the best south east Asia travel route? Hells yeah.

Suggested Stay: Moon Cottage, Choeng Mon Beach

How to get from Koh Rong Samolem to Koh Samui

First things first, get up early – you’ve got a long day of travelling to do! Although the distances when you are travelling Southeast Asia are relatively small, this is one that involves a lot of connections.

Catch the ferry back to Sihanoukville and get a taxi to the airport, and then get a flight from Sihanoukville Airport to Bangkok Airport. From there, then take a flight to Koh Samui Airport, and then a taxi to your hotel. 

This could take up to 12 hours, after waiting for your connecting flight.

Day 15-16: Railay Beach, Thailand

Why go to Railay?

You are NOT ready for Railay. Though it’s increasingly on the tourist radar, Railay has lost none of the chilled-out vibe and friendly atmosphere that attracted travellers in the first place. 

This paradise is surrounded by warm blue sea, golden sand and lush jungle – not to mention all of the karst rocks rising from the sea and in the surrounding areas. 

The area is a rock-climber’s dream and a great place to test your vertical skills if you can peel yourself off of your beach towel.

Suggested Stay: Sand Sea Resort

How to get from Koh Samui to Railay

From Koh Samui, take a ferry to Don Sak Pier. Grab a taxi to the Lomprayah Donsak Pier, and then get a bus to Krabi. Walk 9 minutes to the Krabi Town Pier, and then get a ferry to Railay Beach. 

This journey should take about 6 and a half hours. Once there, if you’re not too tired, head straight to the beach!

Day 17-19: Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

Why go to Koh Phi Phi?

You didn’t really think we could make a beach lover’s South East Asia travel route without including THE Beach did you?! 

The Phi Phi island group is made up of 6 islands, but the two main ones are Phi Phi Don and the uninhabited Phi Phi Leh. Not heard of Phi Phi Leh? How about Maya Bay, where Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘ The Beach ’ was filmed? Thought so.

These picture-perfect islands, with their tropical beaches, amazing rock formations and colourful marine life are pretty close to paradise on earth. Just don’t blame us if you don’t want to leave.

Suggested Stay: P.P. Blue Sky Resort

How to get from Railay to Koh Phi Phi?

Take the ferry from Ao Nang Pier to Phi Phi Island, which takes about an hour and a half.

Day 20-21: Ko Lanta, Thailand

Why go to Koh Lanta?

For the beaches, DUH. There are plenty of beaches on Koh Lanta (which is actually several islands), but we recommend checking out Long Beach and Klong Dao Beach, on the north of Ko Lanta Yai.  

Both have huge stretches of beautiful white sand with clear water, which make them perfect for swimming. Koh Lanta’s got a really cool vibe overall, just one of the reasons we’ve named it one of the top places to go in Thailand.

Long Beach has got something of a reputation as the island’s trendiest beach: head there for a (slightly) more upmarket vibe and lots of people spotting.  

Suggested Stay: Lanta Pearl Beach Resort

How to get from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta

Take the ferry from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lanta, and then take a taxi to your hotel. This journey should take around 2 and a half hours. Now it’s time for you to explore…

Day 22-23: Ko Lipe, Thailand

Why go to Koh Lipe?

Koh Lipe is what everyone thinks of when they think of travelling Southeast Asia.

The island has 3 beaches: Sunrise Beach (our personal favourite with great views of the sunrise of course). There’s also Sunset Beach, a quieter beach with views of the sunset, and Pattaya Beach, the liveliest beach on the island, with great bars, restaurants and nightlife to entertain you. 

Guess where we spent most of our time? Answer: Pattaya.

That said, we recommend staying at Sunrise Beach, because it has got all the best bits of Pattaya without the crowds! And a tip – if you go to the top of Sunrise Beach, you can see the sunrise and also the sunset from the same spot – it’s out of this world.

Suggested Stay: Salisa Resort

How to get from Ko Lanta to Koh Lipe?

Take a taxi to the Ko Lanta Port, and then jump on a ferry to Koh Lipe, which should roughly take around 3 and a half hours.

Looking for more inspiration for a beach holiday? Our beach destination guides and tips are filled with ideas galore.

Day 24-26: Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Why go to the Perhentian Islands?

After a few days in more popular spots, head to these islands to simply get away from it all. 

There are 2 main Perhentian Islands, Kecil, which is popular among the backpacking crowd, and Besar, which is more relaxed, full of blindingly white sand and crystal clear water.

While not as party-orientated as their Thai neighbours, you can usually find a beach party on the Perhentian Islands, and there’s always a bonfire. They’re like the Thai islands 20 years ago – all beauty and chill.

Suggested Stay: Perhentian Island Resort

How to get from Koh Lipe to the Perhentian Islands

You’ll spend most of the day travelling but it will be worth it. First take a ferry to the Pakbara Pier from Koh Lipe, and then take a taxi to Padang Besar. 

From there, get the train down to Sungai Kolok. Take a taxi or rent a car to Kota Bharu, and then take a bus to Kuala Besut. From there get the ferry to Malaysia’s stunning Perhentian Islands. 

Although this route is long, taking about 12 hours, it is by far the cheapest.

Day 27-29: Tioman Island, Malaysia

Why go to Tioman Island?

Shhhh… Tioman Island is still something of a hidden gem and you should put it onto your Southeast Asia travel route before everyone else does. It’s only 20km long by 11km wide, and the surrounding emerald sea is a perfect place to swim, snorkel and even dive. 

And it doesn’t stop there – there are cascading waterfalls, thrilling jungle hikes and laid-back island villages to bring out your adventurous side. You’ll never want to leave… Unfortunately though, your Southeast Asia travel adventure is almost over. 

On Day 30, head to Singapore Changi Airport to depart for home.

Suggested Stay: Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort

How to get from the Perhentian Islands to Tioman Island

From the Perhentian Besar, take a ferry back to Kuala Besut. From there, take a bus to Mersing, change at Kota Bharu, and then take a ferry from Mersing Jetty to Tioman Island. 

This route will take about 13 hours, so make sure you get up early.

Want more Southeast Asia travel ideas? Check out my collection of Southeast Asia travel guides to help you plan your trip.

Travelling Southeast Asia Route 2: A Cultural Odyssey

Southeast Asia has incredible architecture, ruins and monuments, all oozing with culture (not to mention the perfect Instagram opportunity or two). 

Love culture and looking for the best Southeast Asia route for your trip? This backpacking Southeast Asia route will take you to the best of them. You can thank me later.

Day 1-3: Hué Monuments, Vietnam

Why go to Hué?

If the impressive visuals alone don’t convince you, the fact that the complex of Hué Monuments is a UNESCO world heritage site and it is located in and around the city of Hué, really should. 

History buffs will adore Hué. Designated as the capital of unified Vietnam in 1802, the huge complex features a number of monuments and ruins, such as the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City, and royal tombs, pagodas and temples. 

Rich in architecture and with a beautiful landscape surrounding, a visit to the Hué Monuments is definitely worth a visit if you’re on the lookout for some of the best cultural sites in Southeast Asia.

Suggested Stay: Cherish Hué Hotel

How to get to Hué from Hanoi?

Start your Southeast Asia 1 month itinerary by flying into Hanoi (if you have time – spend a day or two here checking out the best things to do in Hanoi, which has more than a few cultural sites of its own), and then get a 1 hour flight to Hué. 

Alternatively, you can take the (much slower but more panoramic) train from Hanoi to Hué. It’s one of the classic Southeast Asia travel experiences and worth it if you have the time.

Day 4-5: Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary, Vietnam

Why go to Mỹ Sơn?

The Mỹ Sơn Hindu Sanctuary is a cluster of more than 70 partially ruined Hindu temples, devoted to Hindu Gods and Goddesses, especially the God Shiva.

The intricate temples contain grand stone sculptures and towers in lush, tropical jungle settings. 

Learn from our mistakes, people. We recommend getting there in the morning, before it gets too hot and before the crowds arrive, and then returning to Hoi An in the afternoon/evening, so you can explore its Ancient Town. 

An increasing number of those travelling Southeast Asia visit the temples, but they’re still a relatively quiet spot.

Suggested Stay: Mỹ Sơn Hội An Resort and Spa

How to get from Hue to Mỹ Sơn

From Hué, take a bus to Da Nang, and then take a taxi to Mỹ Sơn. This should take about an hour and 40 minutes, but it’s best to stay in Hội An, as it is the closest big town to Mỹ Sơn.

Day 6-7: Temple of Preah Vihear, Cambodia

Why go to Preah Vihear?

This is where history nerds will really come into their own – bring your A-Level History knowledge with you. Dating back to 11BC, the site’s architecture and carved stone ornamentation is very high quality, and so well preserved for its remote location. 

Stay in a hotel in Preah Vihear for the night and then carry on exploring in the morning, before heading back to Siem Reap for night seven.

Suggested Stay in Preah Vihear: Sokha Home

How to get from Mỹ Sơn to Preah Vihear?

Take a taxi to Danang Airport and then take a flight to Siem Reap, which should take around 2 hours in total. 

In order to get to Preah Vihear, the easiest method is to rent a car, which should take about 3 hours. Preah Vihear is a temple situated on the top of a 525m cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains, dedicated to the God Shiva.

Day 8-10: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Having spent the night in Siem Reap, head into Angkor Wat, a 5 minute taxi ride away. We recommend hiring a tuk tuk or bike to get around between the temples as some of the distances between the less visited ones are quite far.

Why go to Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom?

Because it’s one of the most fascinating architectural complexes on the planet – ‘nuff said.

But seriously, Angkor Wat is a complex of temples which also happens to be the largest religious monument in the world. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, this huge and incredibly detailed temple is awe-inspiring.

Angkor Thom was the last capital of the Khmer Empire, and was a city with the residences of palace officials, military and priests inside, enclosed by a 12km high wall and a moat. 

Some of the best attractions and most important monuments in Angkor Thom to check out are the Royal Enclosure, Baphuon, Bayon and the Terrace of Elephants. 

We recommend spending about 3 days in the Angkor complex to see everything in depth.

Suggested Stay: Lotus Blanc Resort

Day 11-13: Grand Palace Bangkok, Thailand

Why go to the Grand Palace in Bangkok?

Seriously… just look at that photo! The Grand Palace is a huge complex of ornate buildings that have been the official residence of the Kings of Thailand since it was built in 1782.

There are 35 sights to see in the Grand Palace Complex, including the Phra Maha Monthian and Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, the two oldest, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which contains a Buddha Statue over 2000 years old. 

The beautiful complex of buildings is a must-see on your cultural sites itinerary.

The Grand Palace also features in our pick of the best things to do in Thailand – here’s why .

Suggested Stay: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

How to get from Siem Reap to Bangkok?

From Siem Reap, get a bus to the Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal. This will take about 7 hours, so after arriving, head to your hotel and then explore Bangkok for the evening.

The next morning, take a short taxi ride to the Grand Palace Bangkok, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the old city.

Day 14-15: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Why go to Ayutthaya?

Who doesn’t want to walk among these beautiful ruins? Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya was the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom, after Sukhothai, and is an island at the meeting of the Lopburi River, the Chao Phraya River, and the Pa Sak River.

The ancient city continued to flourish until it was attacked in 1767 by the Burmese Army, and today the site boasts incredible ruins, such as the Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest temple in Ayutthaya, and the Phra Chedi Suriyothai, a white and gold chedi built in memory of a past queen.

Suggested Stay: iuDia Hotel

How to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya?

Get the train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya Station, taking only about 1 hour, and then get a short taxi ride to Ayutthaya.

Day 16-18: Sukhothai Historical Park, Thailand

Why go to Sukhothai?

Sukhothai Historical Park contains 193 ruins of Sukhothai, the capital of the Kingdom in the 13th-14th century. The entire area smacks you in the face with impressive temples and ruins.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, inside the park sits the remains of the Noen Prasad (the Royal Palace), Wat Mahathat (the most impressive and important temple in the park), and our favourite, Wat Sa Si, which is beautifully situated in the middle of the Traphang-Trakuan Lake.

Suggested Stay: Sawasdee Sukhothai Resort

How to get from Ayutthaya to Sukhothai?

From Ayutthaya, get a 6 hour bus journey to Sukhothai, and then get a short taxi ride to the Sukhothai Historical Park.

Day 19-21: Luang Prabang, Laos

Why go to Luang Prabang?

We could ramble on about our love of Laos for hours, but Luang Prabang might just be our fave spot. This is an ancient town in Northern Laos , which lies between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. 

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town is well known for its beautiful and ornate Buddhist temples and monasteries, including the Wat Xiang Kong Temple, and also for its natural sites, such as Mount Phou Si and the Kuang Si Falls.

Suggested Stay: Indigo House Hotel

How to get from Sukhothai to Luang Prabang?

Get up early because you’ve got a whole day of travelling to do! Get a bus from Sukhothai to Phitsanulok, and then a bus to Loei. 

All in all this should take about 15 hours, so we recommend heading straight to your hotel and resting before you start exploring tomorrow.

Laos is also one of the cheapest countries in the world and the perfect destination to help your cash go further. Check out the full list of affordable holiday destinations for a luxury trip .

Day 22-24: Chiang Rai, Thailand

Why go to Chiang Rai?

Views, views, and more views. This south east Asia route is a killer.

Chiang Rai is a big city in Northern Thailand, and it is home to some of the best sights in the country, such as Wat Ming Meuang, Wat Phra Singh and White Temple. 

But one of our favourite things was going up to the top of Buffalo Horn Hill – the views over the city were incredible. 

Suggested Stay: Maryo Resort

How to get from Luang Prabang to Chiang Rai?

From Luang Prabang, get a bus to Chiang Kong, and then another bus to Chiang Rai. This in total will take about 13 hours, so head to your hotel when you get there. 

The other option is to take a two-day slowboat from Luang Prabang up the Mekong river to the Thai border, cross into Thailand and then get another bus to Chiang Rai from there.

Day 25-27: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Why go to Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand – it’s comparable to Bangkok, but with far fewer people. Which makes for a far more pleasant experience, if you ask us. 

There’s a vast array of things to see in the city, including Wat Phra That Doi Kham, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. If you want a more relaxed day, it’s also the kind of place where you can just leisurely walk and take in the Thai atmosphere, sampling scoffing some of the local cuisine. 

And if nature is more your thing, take a short scooter or Tuk Tuk ride out of the town into the rain-forested countryside, which is interspersed with beautiful waterfalls.

Suggested Stay: Anantara Chiang Mai

How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?

Get a bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, which takes about 3 hours.

Day 28-30: Bagan, Myanmar

Why go to Bagan?

It’s a hidden gem! Bagan is an ancient city in Myanmar, known as the temple town, and home to 2,229 temples and pagodas. Trust us, Bagan is guaranteed to be one of the highlights on your cultural Southeast Asia travel route.

We recommend seeing the Ananda Temple and the Shwesandaw Temple, also known as the ‘sunset temple’ – head here in the evening to see the fantastic Bagan sunset.

On your last day, head to Mandalay Airport to get a connecting flight home.

Suggested Stay: Royal Bagan Hotel

How to get from Chiang Mai to Bagan?

Fly from Chiang Mai to Yangon, the Myanmar capital where you will connect onto another flight to Nyaung-U and get a taxi from there to Bagan.

Travelling Southeast Asia Route 3: Adrenaline + Adventure

Adventure opportunities abound when you travel Southeast Asia, so if you’re an adrenaline-seeker, this is the place to go. 

Whether you’re into diving, hiking or climbing, this continent’s got it all. This is your backpacking Southeast Asia route for ultimate thrills.

Day 1-2: Sandboarding at Mũi Né, Vietnam

Why go to Mũi Né?

Not that you’ll ever be bored on this trip, but this is the place where thrillseekers will thrive.

Mũi Né is a beach resort town in Southern Vietnam, famous for its Saharan-like white and red sand dunes, which are perfect for sandboarding down. And if you want something even more upbeat, try the quad bikes or the dune buggies.

Suggested Stay: The Cliff Resort and Residences

How to get to Mũi Né

Start your Southeast Asia 1 month itinerary by flying into Ho Chi Minh City, and then from there take a bus to Phan Thiet, and then a bus from there to Mũi Né. This all in all should take around 4 hours. 

On your first day, I suggest heading to your hotel for an early night before your month of adventure begins. Of course, it’s completely up to you whether you take that advice or not and you could start your Southeast Asia travel itinerary with a bang.

Day 3-5: Spelunking (Caving) at Hang Sơn Đoòng, Vietnam

Why Visit Hang Sơn Đoòng?

Nature lovers will adore this beautiful Vietnamese spot.

Located in the middle of the Vietnamese jungle in the Quang Binh Province, Hang Sơn Đoòng is the world’s largest cave – it’s 3 sizes of Wembley Stadium! And inside there is even a fast-flowing subterranean river. 

One of nature’s most incredible natural marvels, you can’t miss this on your Southeast Asia travel route.

Suggested Stay: Riverside Hotel – Quang Binh

How to get from Mũi Né to Hang Sơn Đoòng

Get up early, as you have a long travel day ahead. From Mũi Né, take a bus back to Phan Thiet, and then take another bus to Nha Trang Dien Thuan. 

Take one more bus from there to Dong Hoi Quang Binh, and then take a taxi to your hotel.

Day 6-8: Rock Climbing in Vang Vieng, Laos

Why go to Vang Vieng?

Vang Vieng is a tourist-oriented town in Laos. Originally, it’s known for its bars, partying and tubing, it’s a cool destination in itself. 

Rock-climbing is Vang Vieng’s hidden gem. The small town is surrounded by beautiful cliffs overlooking idyllic greenery and rice paddies. So clip on your gear and hold on to your ropes – there are cliffs for you to climb!

Check out our guide to rock climbing in Vang Vieng.

Suggested stay: Silver Naga Hotel

How to get from Hang Son Dong to Vang Vieng

Get the bus to Dong Hoi airport, fly to Luang Prabang and then get the bus from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng.

Day 9-11: Hiking from Luang Prabang to Ban Hadkhor, Laos

Why hike from luang prabang to ban hadkor.

This two day hike starts at Luang Prabang, passing through Ban Hadkhang, Pha Theung, and finishing in Ban Had Khor. We love this route because you get to see a massive area of jungle landscape, as well as walk through local villages and trek across rice paddies. 

Camp on the riverbank overnight and then kayak to the Holy Pak Ou Cave on the second day, before heading back to Luang Prabang. It’s fabulous.

Green Discovery Tour from Luang Prabang to Ban Hadkhor

How to get to Luang Prabang from Vang Vieng?

Catch a direct bus from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, which takes around 6 hours. Then it’s time to get your hiking boots on.

Day 12-17: Hiking, Ziplining and Waterfall Abseiling in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is filled with an abundance of things to do.

First off, head into the jungle for a three-day hike. This trek allows visitors to hike all over the landscapes of Chiang Mai, swim in waterfalls and walk in the jungle. 

We’ll level with you – we don’t recommend taking a tour that visits the Karen Hill tribes, thanks to the questions of exploitation and ethics that surround these, nor do we advocate any treks that involve elephant riding. 

We think that hiking through the Chiang Mai jungle is an adventure enough though, so you should definitely do it.

Next up is ziplining. Nothing says adventure like zipping through the sky at fast speed. Chiang Mai’s ‘Flight of the Gibbon’ zip-line is not only the first in Chiang Mai, but the first in all of Asia! It features 5km of zip lines with 33 platforms, as well as abseiling and sky bridges.

If you’re not exhausted from your days of thrills, it’s time to go waterfall abseiling . After trekking in the forest and jungle, you can abseil down a 100m rocky waterfall in the middle of the jungle. 

If you want an adrenaline rush paired with some beautiful scenery, this is the one for you.

Suggested Stay: Wing Bed

How to get from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai?

The easiest way to travel from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai is to take a direct flight. The much slower and more scenic way is to take a two-day slow boat from Luang Prabang to Chiang Khong and then get the bus from Chiang Khong to Chiang Mai.

Day 18-20: Scuba Diving in Koh Tao

Why go to Koh Tao?

We’re sure you’ve heard plenty of tales about Koh Tao – but mainly, Koh Tao is a fabulous place to scuba dive. With over 20 different dive sites, and we recommend using Crystal Dive as your guides. 

If you’ve ever thought about getting your PADI diving qualification, Koh Tao is the place to do it. 

There aren’t many places where your first dives will be in such spectacular sites. Crystal Dive offers normal dives and also wreck dives for the more adventurous among you, with all sites boasting stunning reefs.

Suggested Stay: Mango Bay Boutique Resort

How to get from Chiang Mai to Koh Tao?

From Chiang Mai Airport, fly to Koh Samui. From there, take the ferry to Koh Tao. All in all, this should take around 6 hours.

Day 21-23: Rock Climbing at Railay Beach, Thailand

Why go to railay beach.

Around Railay Beach is a rock climber’s paradise – all of the rock is limestone and part of the world’s largest coral reef. With over 700 routes around Railay Beach, ranging from beginner to extreme, there’s something for everyone. 

And if that’s not enticing enough, the views of the beautiful beaches should have you hooked. We recommend climbing with Real Rocks Climbing School .

How to get from Koh Tao to Railay?

From Koh Tao, take a 2 hour ferry to Koh Samui, and then take a bus to Krabi. Take a short walk to the Krabi Town Pier, and then get a ferry to Railay Beach. This journey should take about 6 and a half hours.

Day 24-26: Scuba Diving in Andaman Islands

Why go to the Andaman Islands?

Because who doesn’t dream of spending a couple of days on what feels like a private island? The islands are very remote and so have excellent areas for diving with stunning turquoise waters. 

In fact, diving in the Andaman Islands is some of the best in the world. That’s why it deserves its place on this epic southeast Asia itinerary.

There are hundreds of deserted islands to explore, a chance to snorkel with swimming elephants, and a dive site at a live volcano with beautiful marine life, near Barren Island. What more could you want?! 

We recommend diving with Original Diving . After you’ve finished your scuba diving, fly to Delhi, where you will make your trip home, until next time.

Suggested Stay: Advhasaha Resort

How to get from Railay to the Andaman Islands?

The last stop on your adventurous trip is probably the longest to get to, but it is probably also the best – so don’t stop now! Go to Krabi Airport and then get a flight to Port Blair, stopping at Bangkok and Madras, taking a total of about 17 hours.

Useful Resources

Travel currency.

UK travellers can take advantage of the fee-free Monzo prepaid card. Spend your money on cocktails and hotels, not on bank charges.

The Lonely Planet and Rough Guides are go-to reliable books for your Southeast Asia trip.

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Sophie Ritchie is a writer for The Discoveries Of. She’s had a passion for travelling since a young age, and loves to visit new places every year. If she had to pick a favourite place it would be Cuba. Her ultimate dream? To travel to every country in South America.

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If you have more time you could add Da Nang at the beginning of the trip and then to Nha Trang to go to Cam Ranh Bay. At the other end of the trip you could add the Mentawai islands and then the Gili Islands.

Thanks for the suggestions – totally agree. Although there’s a lot you can add in if you are going to Indonesia as well as SE Asia.

Thailand looks insane!! It has been on my mind for a while and after reading this, I know its my next destination!! Great guide and options for different types of travelers!

Hey Aaren – it’s really cool and I love it. In fact, heading back later this year. I hope you have a brilliant time!

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A Perfect Southeast Asia Itinerary – 3 Months on the Banana Pancake Trail

The perfect Southeast Asia itinerary for 3 months of backpacking and travel is a tough trip to plan as the “perfect” route highly dependent on you, your tastes, and what you enjoy most in your travel experiences. 

With so many countries, so many options for proceeding through them, and so many sites and experiences that you absolutely must experience, it can be a pain crafting your perfect trip . Trust me; I know what you’re feeling.  During my first trip through Southeast Asia, I pretty much just wandered with no timeline, experiencing each place as it came and deciding the next city of my trip just a couple days before departure.  Though this is a wonderful way to travel, not everyone has an unlimited amount of time to wander the way I did.    Of course, we all still want to experience Asia’s best, even with limited timelines .

Lucky for you, I discovered all of the highlights of Southeast Asia not to be missed.  With this perected Southeast Asia Itinerary 3 Months will be more than enough to discover the best of Southeast Asia. These highlights add up to a list of unique experiences suited to specific “types” of travelers (street food, surfing, trekking, partying, safaris, motorbiking, etc.) and patched them together into a “create your own adventure” itinerary.

Don’t fret about creating that perfect SEA backpacking trip.  In this post, we’ll share the perfect core itinerary for backpacking Southeast Asia for three months. We’ll then share how to adapt the perfect Southeast itinerary to your specific tastes by recommending a couple of extra countries focused on specific adventures and experiences.  The result – the perfect Southeast Asia travel itinerary for you .

MY EXPERIENCE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA ON THE BANANA PANCAKE TRAIL

Three years ago, I quit my job, packed my things, and set out to treat myself to a year of discovery wandering the world.  Though I had already been to the Middle East, South America, and Europe, a close friend still recommended Southeast Asia and, what he called, the “Banana Pancake Trail” as the best starter for travel around the world.

He was absolutely right.

At his recommendation, I booked a one-way flight to Thailand and a rough plan to travel to the Thai islands and find a deserted beach with a beach hut to gather myself for the trip to come.  However, the beauty of experiencing Southeast Asia is that the “Banana Pancake Trail” already has a plan for you.

By the end of my first night in Bangkok (where I first arrived), my plan for Southeast Asia had been scrapped, I found a travel buddy, and the adventures were in full swing.

The following day, we decided to go to the north’s Chiang Mai hill country, exploring and wandering as our crew grew from 2 members to 10.  The adventures that followed over the next four months were more than I could have planned, asked for, or dreamed.

The Banana Pancake trail’s momentum took us tasting, exploring, and partying with like-minded travelers in Thailand.  We continued to experience history, culture, and adventure in Vietnam.  Surprisingly, Vietnam turned out to be one of the richest destinations of all my travels, suitable for any age.  We continued by cruising the Ho Chi Minh trail by motorbike “moto-packing” on 125cc Vietnam and made motorcycles up to China and down through Laos, ultimately experiencing places that hadn’t seen people like us in decades.  Through Cambodia, we continued exploring ancient kingdoms and Asian castles that are rightly called “wonders of the world.” 

Then, we all parted ways, but my adventure continued.

I trekked to floating cities and wandered through lost kingdoms and thousands of Pagodas in Myanmar.  I trekked alone to the highest mountain in the world, Everest, in the peaceful quiet of Nepal.  I shared bananas with a wild elephant alone in Sri Lanka. I tackled fears and surfed waves taller than me in Bali. And I swam with giants, diving breathlessly below whale sharks in the Philippines.

All of this happened with no plan, with ease, and on a budget.

My experience was genuine but far from uncommon for backpackers on the Banana Pancake Trail.

I highly recommend the experience.

After al of this firsthand experience bouncing around the best of Asia, how long is the perfect Southeast Asia Itinerary? 3 Months.  Yup.  You guessed it.

Now that we have your interest let’s explore how you, too, can experience the Banana Pancake Trail with this Southeast Asia Itinerary for three months of mind-blowing travel and experiences.

THE “ADVENTURE FIRST” SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY FOR 3 MONTHS

To maximize your enojoyment and experience, here is a Southeast itinerary for 3 months that will help you see more than you ever thought possible.  This itinerary helps you start with adventures and end with countries specific to your favorite travel experiences.

• Weeks 1 to 3: Vietnam
• Weeks 4 to 5: Laos 
• Week 6: Cambodia
• Weeks 7 to 9: Thailand
• Weeks 10 and 11: Additional Country #1
• Weeks 12 and 13: Additional Country #2
• Additional Countries Recommended: Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bali (Indonesia), The Philippines, Nepal

WHAT IS THE “ADVENTURE FIRST” ITINERARY, AND WHY SHOULD YOU DO IT?

The first itinerary starts you off in Vietnam, arguably the new hotspot for backpacking (dethroning Thailand). Thailand’s long north to south stretch of traveler trail is filled with likeminded backpackers and travelers that are bussing and “moto-packing” between cities to hike, climb, party, and explore in a very adventurous way.

Followed up Vietnam with even more rural and adventurous Laos for jungle trekking and outdoor adventures, and your trip will be front-loaded with adventurous memories.

Then, proceeded through the more relaxed and slower-paced Cambodia sites on to the beaches, rice fields, and street food experiences of Thailand before moving on to the “name your own adventure” portion of your itinerary.

THE “PLEASURE FIRST” SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY FOR 3 MONTHS

For those that need to start their travels with a chance to recharge and refresh, this itinerary for three months in Southeast Asia takes you through the peaceful pleasures of the Banana Pancake Trail before introducing its adventures.

• Weeks 1 to 3: Thailand
• Weeks 6 to 8: Vietnam
• Week 9: Cambodia

WHAT IS THE “PLEASURE FIRST” ITINERARY, AND WHY SHOULD YOU DO IT?

Thailand is renowned for its beaches, street food, traditional Thai massages, and how easily new travelers can experience the country.  If you’re escaping the world and need to “decompress” to get yourself into the travel mood, “the Thailand first itinerary” is the one you want to roll with.

Thailand is the original backpacker paradise offering a slower-paced experience (if you want it to be) with all of its highlights catering to the senses and enjoyment.  In Bangkok, street food and traditional Thai massage rejuvenate you and awaken the senses.  In the northern portion of the itinerary, in Chiang Mai and Pai, temples, rice fields, and pleasant company pull you into a state of peace.

In the southern portion of the Thailand itinerary, the beautiful beaches and countless islands keep you in that state of pleasure and relaxation with the option of all-night parties with fellow travelers.

If the idea of a cottage on the beach or serene rice field is exactly what you need right now, start with Thailand first, continue through Laos, on to the adventures of Vietnam and the ruins and history of Cambodia.  Finally, end your itinerary with one or two of the “additional countries” listed below that speaks to your unique travel tastes.

THE “OTHER COUNTRIES” I RECOMMEND IN SOUTH ASIA

The four core countries on the “Banana Pancake Trail,” Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos , are all amazing experiences that nearly any traveler can appreciate.  However, there is beauty, pleasure, and adventure strewn across Southeast Asia to experience far beyond just these four countries.

Of the seven “optional countries” in South Asia, I recommend adding on at least one or two to the end of your trip.  Each of these extra countries has an irreplaceable theme or experience that perfectly fits a certain type of travel urge.

The five additional countries to consider adding to your Southeast Asia backpacking trip are:

• Myanmar : Remnants of an ancient empire with thousands of temples and lake treks in the backdrop of a recently opened country
• Sri Lanka : The Garden of Eden, wild animals, ruins of ancient kingdoms, hiking, and surfing for all levels
• Bali, Indonesia : A true paradise with rice fields, beaches, hipster backpacker havens and a spiritual backdrop
• The Philippines : A true water world of those of islands and the most pristine water and beaches I’ve ever seen – perfect for divers, free divers, snorkelers, and water children
• Nepal : A mecca for trekking, rural mountain cultures (Sherpa) and home to the tallest mountain in the world

SOUTHEAST ASIA HIGHLIGHTS NOT TO BE MISSED

As you adapt this itinerary for your travel preferences, spend more time in places that offer what you love and don’t be scared to skip places that don’t offer anything that interests you.  Your time and money is precious, treat it as such.

Lucky for us, and planning, each country in Southeast Asia naturally has a specific theme, experience, or adventure that it offers better than any other destination in the world.  Use the list of SE Asia highlights

SOUTHEAST ASIA HIGHLIGHT EXPERIENCES + WHERE TO FIND THEM

• Street Food: Thailand, Vietnam
• Ancient Cities and Ancient Ruins: Angkor Wat (Cambodia), Pagan (Myanmar), Polonnaruwa (Sri Lanka)
• Animal Experiences: Sri Lanka
• Diving Adventures: Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand
• Surf Adventures: Bali, Sri Lanka
• Trekking: Nepal, Myanmar, Indonesia
• Wild Motorbiking Adventures: Vietnam, Laos – mini-adventures in Thailand and Bali
• Wild Outdoor and Rural Experiences: Laos

WHY IS THE BANANA PANCAKE TRAIL A PERFECT TRAVEL ADVENTURE?

This route through southeast asia offers every sight, taste, and experience you want from a good travel adventure, all for cheap and easily navigated..

There are many other backpacking routes through the world:

• The Gringo Trail **
• The Balkan Walk **
• The Arabian Trail **
• and more…

However, the Banana Pancake Trail through Southeast Asia is one of the best, cheapest, and easiest, making it perfect for first-time travelers.

THE BANANA PANCAKE TRAIL IN SOUTHEAST ASIA IS THE BEST FOR NEW AND BUDGET TRAVELERS.  HERE’S WHY…

Wherever you travel to in Southeast Asia you’ll always find these amazing benefits:

• Cheap Cost of Travel
• Great Travel Infrastructure
• Variety in the Adventures
• Several exotic cultures in an easily navigated experience
• Fantastic Food Experiences
• Boundless pleasures suitable for all types of travelers

Cheap Cost of Travel: $15 to $35 per day, with cheap intercity/intercountry buses and budget airlines

Great Travel Infrastructure: From the cheap yet extremely comfortable hostels to the easily and cheaply booked buses, rail, and trains, navigating Southeast Asia on a budget is very easy and convenient

Variety in the Adventures: Day trips by boat, motorbiking around an entire country, swimming in empty bays with glowing plankton, trekking, food adventures, diving, surfing, and so much more.  Few other regions of the world offer such a variety of adventures in such a small area for such a low price.

Several exotic cultures in an easily navigated experience: Though westerners may think of Southeast Asian countries as all the same, each country on “the trail” has its own very unique culture and highlight experience.   This variety accents the overall travel experience and opens the mind, all presented in a way that isn’t too shocking for even newbie travelers.

Food Experiences: Southeast Asia – specifically Thailand – has one of the most robust food scenes globally.  The street food scene of Thailand boasts food carts with Michelin stars, and Bali is the peak of “hipster fusion,” creating an adventure within an adventure for foodies on the road.

Pleasures: From traditional massages to the most beautiful beaches in the world with sunsets on beanbags with coconuts, in Southeast Asia, there is always a new (or old reliable) pleasure around the corner to soothe the senses

THE PERFECT SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY FOR 3 MONTHS

The beauty of the Banana Pancake trail, for old and new travelers alike, is how well the tourism and travel infrastructure is built out and well defined the “highlights” are for each location.

Thanks to this well defined and supported travel route, choosing the right cities to visit – that deliver experiences worth your precious time and energy – traveling between them are easy.

The following itinerary of countries and cities hits the irreplaceable highlights of the region. It flows in such a way that you will be able to cheaply and easily travel to your next stop while bumping into familiar friends along the way.

Note: This itinerary is the “Adventure First” itinerary.  To prioritize relaxation and pleasure, make the same city stops, but placing Thailand first

OVERVIEW OF THE PERFECT BANANA PANCAKE TRAIL ITINERARY

1.     vietnam (3 weeks).

• Ho Chi Minh City (2 Days): A big, bustling city with 3 centuries-old – Essential Ho Chi Minh City Experiences –   Ben Thanh Market , touring the Cu Chi Tunnels from the Vietnam War, city tour by motorbike** , free walking tour**, countryside bike tour
• Dalat (2 Days): Vietnam’s city of eternal spring with amazing architecture and a mountain backdrop – Essential Dalat Experiences – Canyoning tour, a coffee experience with a trip to a plantation and several cafes, “chase clouds” in Trai Mat, visit Truc Lam Buddhist Temple, visit Elephant Waterfall, visit Maze Bar Dalat (100 roofs café).
• Da Nang (1-2 Days): Another big city offering typical tourist delights – Essential Experiences – Visit Ba Na Hill & Golden bridge, ride the dragon bridge by motorbike, explore the nightlife, and plenty of great restaurants
• Motorbike the Hai Van Pass from Da Nang to Hoi An (2-hour ride): A straight of coastal mountain highway with beautiful, peaceful ocean views for the entire stretch, perfect for two-wheeled adventures and open-air Jeeps
• Hoi An (2 Days): A beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City and one of the most well-preserved Southeast Asia trading ports dating back to the 1400s. Hanoi artfully blends local and foreign influences into architecture, food, and experience – Essential Experiences – Hoi An Central Market, wander Hoi An Old Town, plenty of food adventures, walking across “Japanese Bridge,” get some tailor-made suits or clothes for fun, take a cooking class, grab a beer by the Thu Bon River on itty bitty plastic chairs, motorbike to the Marble Mountains, Hoi An Night Market
• Hanoi (3 Days): Charming and heavily influenced by French architecture and food.  Wonderful for relaxing while being a gateway to the more beautiful north of Vietnam – Essential Experiences – Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake + Legend, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi Hilton tour (Hoa Lo Prison) Pho, Egg coffee at Café Pho Co overlooking the legendary Hoan Kiem lake, street food tour, shop for potentially counterfeit outdoor and adventure gear/clothing (“Made In Vietnam” store), Phung Hung Mural Street, Dong Xuan Market
• Essential Side Trips from Hanoi: Ha Long Bay (2 Days), Sapa (2 days), Ha Giang Loop (4 Days),  Ba Be (2 Days), Ninh Binh

TIP: From here on the Vietnam itinerary, continue on to northern Vietnam as the often skipped north has what I would argue to be the most beautiful landscapes and experiences in Vietnam

2.      LAOS (2 WEEKS)

• Luang Prabang (3 Days): Kuang Si Waterfalls, countless Buddhist temples, 
• Vang Vieng (3 Days): Tubing or kayaking the Nan Song River (with booze and friends), dense jungle day hikes – both of these are only possible outside of monsoon season
• Vientiane (3 Days): Sunset by the river with the evening market and experiencing Laos local life, visit the COPE Center (Vietnam War in Laos history)
• Optional: “Don Det” 4000 Islands in Si Phan Don (if traveling by motorbike to Cambodia): to float, wander, and relax
• Optional: Motorbike Thakek Loop en route to 4000 Islands
• Optional: Gibbon Experience** ziplining through the jungle canopy in Nam Kan National park

3.      CAMBODIA (1 WEEK)

• Phnom Penh (1 Day): S-21 Genocide Museum, shoot big guns, temples (Wat Phnom), a river cruise on the Mekong
• Siem Reap/Angkor Wat (2 Days): Angkor Wat by tuk tuk at sunrise, night market experiences of The Lane + Pub Street
• Optional (2-3 Days): Sihanoukville to Koh Rong and Koh Ron Samleon island for beautiful beaches and phosphorescent plankton
• Optional – Kampot: A low key town where backpackers enjoy riverside cocktails and food, rent scooters to cruise the hills nearby

4.      THAILAND (3 WEEKS)

• Chiang Mai (3 Days):   Walking tour of Old Town Chiang Mai, Temples, Old Town and Nimman Street Food Night Markets, Thai Massags, a Thai cooking class,
• Pai (2-3 Days): Cruise the hills of Pai by motorbike, and hike a beautiful Pai Canyon hike by sunset. cave tours. By Street food at the Pai Night Market by night
• Bangkok (3 to 5 Days): Party on Khao San Road, street food, Bangkok floating market, Chao Praya River area and ancient royal district, the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho temple
• Krabi / Railay (3 Days): Railay Beach, the towering Tiger Cave Temple (+1,237 steps), Soi RCA, Ao Nang Night Market & street food, Emerald Pool and hot spring  waterfalls, jungle trek through Khao Sak National Park, cave swingat Hollow Mountain
• Ko Phi Phi (2-3 Days): Maya bay day trip, boat tour between the islands, lots of beach time, or consider Ko Lanta for a more peaceful experience as Ko Phi Phi tends to be a party island
• Koh Tao (2-3 Days): Motorbike, cruise, and snorkel between beaches, SCUBA dive certification, Ko Tao pub crawl, sunset at Mango Bay, Love Koh Tao Viewpoint Café for coffee.
• Ko Pha Ngan (2-3 Days): Full Moon Party ( Full Moon Party calendar here for 2020 + 2021 ), half-moon beach party, wander between beaches andwaterfalls,

5. ADDITIONAL COUNTRY OF YOUR CHOOSING #1 (2 WEEKS)

Choose an additional country specializing in something you love, based on our list of additional recommended countries .  Choose two shorter ones, or just one country if a 3+ weeks itinerary is required.

6. ADDITIONAL COUNTRY OF YOUR CHOOSING #2 (2 WEEKS)

Choose a second additional country that specializes in something you love, based on our list of additional recommended countries

A Tip on itineraries: Prioritize the sites and adventures that are “musts” for you, and from there, don’t stick to a strict itinerary abiding by the days recommended.  Stay in each city as long as you’re vibing with that particular city. Don’t feel pressured to book accommodations, transport, or excursions far in advance as there will likely always be a suitable option available.  Leaving that room for flexibility in your adventures is invaluable.

A Note on “Days per Destination” in this itinerary: Each destination has a 2 to 3-day buffer, allowing you to stay longer if you are enjoying a place more than normal.  On the other hand, if you arrive in a place and you’ve either 1) quickly completed all of the experiences or 2) simply don’t like it, I highly recommend proceeding onward to create extra time for your favorite places that pop up in the itinerary.

THE PERFECT SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY FOR 3 MONTHS IN-DEPTH

• Vietnam (3 Weeks)
• Laos (2 Weeks )
• Cambodia (1 Week)
• Thailand (3 Weeks)
• Additional Countries 1 and 2 (We offer our favorite suggestions below)

VIETNAM ITINERARY FOR 3 WEEKS

Vietnam is a cheap, beautiful, and adventure packed country that is arguably the best place in Southeast Asia for backpackers – old and new. 

Whereas Thailand was once the “go-to” Southeast Asia travel destination, Vietnam is now single easiest, most entertaining, and most economical destination in SEA. 

THE TOP 5 REASONS WHY VIETNAM IS AN EXCELLENT DESTINATION:

• A deep, unadulterated cultural experience: food, experiencing Vietnamese daily life, and finding tourist-free locales
• Amazing adventure opportunities : Motorbiking the entire country, canyoning, trekking
• Amazing beauty and landscapes: “Floating islands”, Patagonia-esque mountains, beautiful beaches, jungles, canyons, rice fields and more
• Making new backpacker friends on the backpacker trail is insanely easy
• Great transportation infrastructure makes getting around easy and cheap and tons of cheap yet comfortable lodging in every city (~$5 to ~$25 USD per night) keep travel cheap

VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Motorbiking the length of the country, the Ha Giang Loop, and the Ho Chi Minh Trail
• The Hanoi experience: Heavy French influence in Asia
• Beautiful Northern hill country: rice fields, amazing views, and a great cultural experience (Sapa & North)
• Ha Long Bay and the “Castaway” experience
• Plenty of friendly backpackers and travelers to befriend

 OVERALL RATING FOR VIETNAM

• Tourist Rating: 8/10 – Something for everyone and travel options to fit all tastes
• Adventure Rating: 9/10 – Motorbiking, trekking, and adventure sports to fit all types
• Backpacker Travel Rating: 9/10 – Cheap, fun, social, and easy to travel. The new “it’” destination

 THE VIETNAM ITINERARY: 3 WEEKS

With this near perfect Vietnam itinerary, 3 weeks will be enough to experience the best and most unique of Vietnam while experiencing the food, culture, amazing landscapes, and adventures you’ll find few other places in the world

• Ho Chi Minh City (2 Days)
• Dalat (2 Days)
• Da Nang (1-2 Days)
• Motorbike the Hai Van Pass from Da Nang to Hoi An (2 Hours)
• Hoi An (2 Days)
• Hanoi (3 Days)
• Ha Long Bay (2 Days) or Ha Long Bay Castaway Experience (2 Days)
• Sapa tour and ricefields trek (2 Days)
• Ha Giang Loop – solo by motorbike or via tour (4 Days)
• Ba Be National Park (2 Days)

HO CHI MINH CITY (2 DAYS )

The capital of Vietnam is big and bustling but proceed quickly to other, better adventures throughout Vietnam

TOP EXPERIENCES IN HO CHI MINH CITY

• 3 centuries-old Ben Thanh Market
• touring the Cu Chi Tunnels from the Vietnam War
• City tour by motorbike: Bookable through most hostels
• One of the many free walking tours in Ho Chi Minh City
• countryside bike tour

WHERE TO STAY IN HO CHI MINH CITY

• Hideout Hostel
• Airbnb for a more private yet economical option

DALAT (2 DAYS)

Vietnam’s city of eternal spring with amazing architecture and a mountain backdrop

TOP EXPERIENCES IN DALAT

• Canyoning tour
• coffee experience with a trip to a plantation and several cafes
• “chase clouds” in Trai Mat
• visit Truc Lam Buddhist Temple
• visit Elephant Waterfall
• visit Maze Bar Dalat (100 roofs café)

WHERE TO STAY IN DALAT

• Pretty Backpacker House
• Tigon Dalat Hostel

DA NANG (1-2 DAYS)

Another big city on the Vietnam adventure trails that offers typical tourist delights

TOP EXPERIENCES DA NANG

• Visit Ba Na Hill & Golden bridge
• Ride the dragon bridge by motorbike
• Explore the nightlife
• Plenty of great restaurants.

MOTORBIKE THE HAI VAN PASS FROM DA NANG TO HOI AN (2-HOUR RIDE):

The “Hai-Van Pass” is an epically beautiful stretch of coastal mountain highway between Hoi An and Da Nang. The entire stretch of peaceful ocean views is perfect for motorbiking adventures and open-air Jeep tours from Hoi .

How to ride the Hai Van Pass: Arrange rental of a motorbike to cruise at your own pace from Hoi An to Da Nang and arrange transport of your bags to be taken separately by car.  The scooter/motorbike rental will be for a one way trip and the provider should be able to arrange delivery of your bags. Ask your hostel/hotel staff for motorbike rental recommendations – they will be the best source of information for the adventure.

HOI AN (2 DAYS)

A beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City recognized as being one of the most well-preserved Southeast Asia trading ports dating back to the 1400s, artfully blending local and foreign influences into architecture, food, and experience

TOP EXPERIENCES HOI AN

• Hoi An Central Market
• Hoi An Old Town
• Plenty of food adventures,
• Japanese Bridge
• Getting a tailor-made suits or clothes for fun with wacky prints
• Vietnamese cooking class for Hoi-An specific cusisine
• Grabbing a beer by the Thu Bon River on itty bitty plastic chairs
• Motorbiking to the Marble Mountains
• Hoi An Night Market

WHAT TO EAT AND WHERE

• Grab Bánh mì at Banh Mi Phuong, recommended by Anthony Bourdain
• Pork buns, Bahn Xeo

WHERE TO STAY

• Vietnam Backpackers Hoi An : A resort-like hostel tucked into an artistically remodeled historic building

HANOI (3 DAYS)

A charming city despite its size, heavily influenced by French architecture and food.  Wonderful for relaxing exploration while being a gateway to the more beautiful north of Vietnam

TOP EXPERIENCES HANOI

• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Hoan Kiem Lake + Legend
• St. Joseph’s Cathedral
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Hanoi Hilton tour (Hoa Lo Prison) Pho
• Egg coffee at Café Pho Co overlooking the legendary Hoan Kiem lake
• A street food tour
• shop for potentially counterfeit outdoor and adventure gear/clothing at one of the “Made In Vietnam” store)
• Phung Hung Mural Street
• Dong Xuan Market
• Vietnam Backpackers Central: 100% party and instant social life (book directly via the hostel’s site)
• Republik Backpackers hostel : Peace, quiet, and comfort

WHAT TO EAT

• Bun Cha, Pho

ESSENTIAL SIDE TRIPS FROM HANOI AND IN NORTHERN VIETNAM 

Recommended tours from hanoi.

• Ha Long Bay (2 Days) or Ha Long Bay Castaway Experience (recommended via Vietnam Backpackers)
• (Optional)Cat Ba Island
• (Optional) Ninh Binh

HA LONG BAY (2 DAYS)

This bay of 1,600 floating islands inspired the dreamscapes of the movie Avatar and are the best experience for a fun boat tour, allowing you to swim and kayak along the way. Consider leveling up the experience with a party heavy two-day castaway leaving you stranded on an island for an excitingly irreplaceable experience.

SAPA (2 DAYS)

This romantic mountain town is nestled in the cool north.  Experience the relaxing ambiance with a day trek (guided by locals) through the hills and rice fields, sharing history and culture along the way.

HA GIANG LOOP (4 DAYS)

Rent a motorbike and ride this four-day loop of northern Vietnam through rice fields, mountains, and to the border of China for arguably the most beautiful and authentic adventure in Vietnam.  Grab your motorbike for the trip from Style Motorbikes in Hanoi.

BA BE NATIONAL PARK (2 DAYS)

4.5 hours from Hanoi lies a peaceful escape, a national park of only bays, caves, and flooded rice paddies.  Stay at a guesthouse on the cheap and take a guided tour of the park (by boat) for an experience you can’t have anywhere else.

(**Ba Be National Park video**)

(OPTIONAL) NINH BINH

If you have extra time consider adding the beauty of Ha Long Bay’s floating islands experienced on land.

OTHER GREAT EXPERIENCES FOR ANYWHERE IN VIETNAM

• Vietnamese Coffee making class: Best in Dalat
• Vietnamese cooking class: Best in Hanoi, Hoi An, or Ho Chi Minh city
• Riding all of Vietnam by Motorbike: Buy a motorbike from a fellow backpacker for $200-$500 USD, and ride!
• Vietnam Backpacker’s “Bull Run”
• Vietnam Backpacker’s Castaway in Ha Long Bay
• Ninhvana Backpacker’s Resort in Ninh Van
• Riding the Hai Van Pass

VIETNAM IN PICTURES

BUDGETING AND COSTS IN VIETNAM

• Nice Hostel Bed per Night: $7/Night
• Hotel Room Per Night: $25/night
• Average Meal: $3
• Daily Backpacker Budget: $25/day + additional $30-$50 for each big trip

ESSENTIAL FOOD AND DRINK IN VIETNAM

• Bun Cha (Best in Hanoi)
• Egg Coffee (Best in Hanoi)
• Vietnamese Coffee
• Local beer: Made from rice, and served draught streetside at the bars with countless tiny chairs
• Banh Mi (Best everywhere, style varies by city
• Cao Lao (Best in Hoi An)
• Cha Ca (Best in Hanoi)
• Guoi Cuon (Spring Rolls)
• Bun Bo Hue (Best in Central Vietnam)

HOW TO GET AROUND VIETNAM

• From Airports: Grab Rideshare app (to avoid being ripped off by taxis)
• Between Cities: 12go.Asia or Rome2Rio for planning buses or booking shuttles through your hostel, hotel, or local travel agent kiosk
• In-Town: Byfoot is the best option for explorers, booking tour buses for adventures outside of town.  Moto taxis are great for getting around town and best booked in the Grab rideshare app or with a price agreed upon in advance
• Adventure Option – Motorbike Vietnam: Join the Vietnam Backpackers FB groups and purchase a used motorbike from a fellow backpacker for $200-$400, “moto-pack” the length of Vietnam, and resell before leaving.

VIETNAM VISA STRATEGY

Available for 1, 3, and 6 months, authorization required before arrival

• Vietnam Visa Fees: Agent fee (varies) paid in advance and stamp fee on arrival (varies)
• All visas require a visa approval letter attained prior to your arrival from a visa agent and printed to present at the airport on arrival – you won’t have the chance to print on arrival and will be turned away if you don’t have it
• Different visas are required if you fly internationally into Vietnam or cross a land border (via Cambodia, Laos, or China).  Request the correct type of Visa accordingly.
• Average Visa Agent Fees (paid in advance to private visa agent): 1 month single: $6 / person; 1 month multiple: $6 / person 3 months single entry: $15 / person ; 3 months multiple entry: $20 / person – these are in addition to stamp fees paid on arrival
• Visa Stamp Fees (paid on arrival to Vietnamese government): Bring cash (in USD or VND) as you will have to  pay for visa stamp fee (paid by yourself upon arrival at the airport: 25$ for 1 month and 3 month single entry, 50$ for 1 month multiple entry and 3 month multiple entry, 95$ for 6 months multiple entry, 135$ for 1-year multiple entry
• My Visa Agent: I used http://vietnamvisapro.com/ several times with no issues

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN VIETNAM

I highly recommend having travel insurance in Vietnam, as the motorbiking, canyoning, and off the beaten path adventures.  I recommend the following two options

• World Nomads : Higher cost, but great support and few issues filing claims
• SafetyWing : Lower cost, but sufficient to cover most all adventures in Vietnam

ESSENTIAL HEALTH TIPS FOR VIETNAM

  Consider getting a rabies booster in advance.  Carry the medications you need for most situations for a minimum of 3 days, including stomach meds as you adjust to Asia (Pepto, Immodium, etc.) and pain relievers.

WHEN TO VISIT VIETNAM

December to March during high season, when the weather is dry.

LAOS 2 WEEK ITINERARY

Laos is a rugged and often overlooked backpacking destination in Southeast Asia, but the hidden beauty, preserved culture, and numerous outdoor adventures – trekking, rafting, motorbiking, and more – make Laos a fulfilling locale for budget travelers and backpackers that love the outdoors.

HERE ARE THE TOP 5 REASONS TO TRAVEL TO LAOS

• Rural, off the beaten track feel: No matter where you go in Laos, it feels like you’re traveling back in time experiencing Asia before the Banana Pancake Trail set in
• Plenty of Outdoor Adventures: Jungle treks, floating down the river on inner tubes, and exploring limestone caves/bunkers are a few of the many adventures that we miss in urban destinations
• Laos is cheap: For travelers on a budget, Laos will be the cheapest destination on your itinerary while still providing plenty of easy travel and transport infrastructure
• Hidden history: From unexploded ordance to the history of the “Secret War”, Laos will shock you with history you likely have never heard about
• Amazing Landscapes: Top to bottom, Laos is filled with towering mountains, green jungles, and rolling hills that most westerners will only witness in pictures

OVERALL RATING FOR LAOS

• Tourist Rating: 6/10 – Not as glitzy as other SEA destinations as Laos lacks urban flare
• Adventure Rating: 9/10 – Perfect for lovers of the outdoors and adventure sports
• Backpacker Travel Rating: 9/10 – Cheap, easy to travel, and rugged enough to be charming

2 WEEK LAOS ITINERARY

If you’re backpacking SEA and want the best of everything, this 2 week Laos itinerary helps you maximize your time by hitting the quintessential experiences that you can only experience in Laos.

• Luang Prabang (3 Days)
• Vang Vieng (3 Days)
• Vientiane (3 Days)
• Optional: “Don Det” 4000 Islands in Si Phan Don (if traveling by motorbike to Cambodia)

LUANG PRABANG (3 DAYS)

Luang Prabang is an absolute highlight of adventuring through Laos.  A former French colonial town, this UNESCO world heritage site boasts an amazingly rough and southeast backdrop, monasteries and temples to explore, and countless wild adventures outside of the city

TOP EXPERIENCES IN LUANG PRABANG

• Kuang Si Waterfalls, countless Buddhist temples

VANG VIENG (3 DAYS)

A haven for wild backpackers and backpackers that love the wild outdoors, Vang Vieng is a jungle town with adventure and relaxation in equal parts.  Cheap, cozy, comfortable, and perfect for a genuine travel experience.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN VANG VIENG

• Tubing or kayaking the Nan Song River (with booze and friends), dense jungle day hikes – both of these are only possible outside of monsoon season

VIENTIANE (3 DAYS)

A big colonial French city, Vientiane is more of a “transit and resupply” location with much less charm and adventure than Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.  Plan in this stop as simply a transit point, and use the days to wander Laos’ biggest city, eating the local (and French inspired) food, observing the architectural influence, and ending sunset on the local river walk next to the market.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN VIENTIANE

• Sunset by the river with the evening market and experiencing Laos local life, visit the COPE Center (Vietnam War in Laos history)

OPTIONAL ADVENTURES LAOS

• “Don Det” 4000 Islands in Si Phan Don (if traveling by motorbike to Cambodia) to float, wander, and relax
• Optional: Gibbon Experience** ziplining through the jungle canopy in Nam Kan National Park

LAOS IN PICTURES

BUDGETING AND COSTS IN LAOS

• Nice Hostel Bed per Night: $5
• Hotel Room Per Night: $20 – $40
• Daily Backpacker Budget: $20
• Daily Tourist Budget: $60

ESSENTIAL FOOD AND DRINK

• Larb/Laap – A meat salad served with sticky rice
• Khao Jee – Baguette Sandwich
• Khao Poon – Spicy Soup with Vermicelli Noodles and Pounded Meat
• Sai Gok – Laotian sausage, season pork served with sticky rice
• BeerLao – A local beer brewed with rice (vice grains)
• Laos Pho – Similar to Vietnamese Pho but served with flat noodles (or thin rice noodles on request) and may have beef innards (heart, liver, etc.)
• Or Lam – A Lao stew originating in Luang Prabang made with dried buffalo meat
• Sien Savanh – Laotian beef jerky
• Tam Mak Hoong – Lao papaya salad

GETTING TO LAOS

• From Vietnam by Air, fly from Hanoi into Luang Prabang, making for a smooth, one-way tour south (~$100).  Most flights from Ho Chi Minh city connect through Hanoi, making Hanoi the best departure point
• Consider leaving Hanoi to Luang Prabang from Vietnam by bus, but plan on a 25-hour bus ride.
• From Thailand, consider taking the relaxingly adventurous slow boat from Huay Xai to Pak Beng to Luang Prabang.  Travel by bus from Chiang Rai, Thailand, to the border
• BEST OPTION: Buy a motorbike in Vietnam , ride into Laos**, ride to the northern border (China), ride west into Laos, and ride south toward Vang Vieng à Luang Prabang à Vientiane.  Be sure to by a bike with the “blue card” to ensure you can make it across Laos – Vietnam border

GETTING AROUND LAOS

• Plan for roughly a day of travel (4 to 12 hours) between cities
• Minibusses between Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane arranged through your hostel, hotel, or local travel agency – Online bookings and route times available at 12goAsia
• Consider buying a motorbike in Laos, easiest in Vientiane for ~$150, and explore the country

VISA STRATEGY

• 30-day visa on arrival available for most nationalities at 27 entry points/border crossing. Extendable twice up to 90 days total. ($30 to $42 depending on nationality, plus passport photo) (Link: http://www.immigration.gov.la/visas.html )
• 60-day e-visa available to nationalities ineligible for the Visa on arrival and can be used to enter at the Thai-Laos friendship bridge, Wattay International Airport (Vientiane), and Luang Prabang International airport ($50) (Link: https://laoevisa.gov.la/)

PACKING ESSENTIALS

• A good backpack – roller luggage or duffel bag would make travel miserable
• A good compressible daypack as most of the adventures are less than a day’s length
• Good boots for hiking, to make the most of the exploration opportunities
• Adventure and trekking ready sandals like the Xero Trails or Chacos
• A 10L to 20L waterproof bag to keep the essentials dry in wet weather and on river floats
• Ziploc bags large and small, to keep things dry and un-muddied on the adventures
• Bug spray to start the adventures as jungles are filled with buggies

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN LAOS

Laos is an adventurous destination.  With the river floating, jungle trekking, and motorbiking experiences, travel insurance is an absolute must .  I wouldn’t consider visiting without it.  I highly recommend either World Nomads or SafetyWing as they have both been reliable on adventures and the cost is reasonable

WHEN TO VISIT LAOS

January to March in Laos is best as temperatures are manageable and the weather is drier. The Laotian monsoon season is May until October, and the dry season is from November to April.

MOVING ON FROM LAOS: GO TO CAMBODIA OR VIETNAM

Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia are all very accessible from Laos.  Plan on flying out of Vientiane to your next destination, or consider motorbiking through Laos and on through Cambodia

CAMBODIA 1 WEEK ITINERARY

OVERALL RATING FOR CAMBODIA

• Tourist Rating: 9/10 for Angkor Wat, 6/10 elsewhere
• Adventure Rating: 6/10
• Backpacker Travel Rating: 9/10 for Angkor Wat, 6/10 elsewhere
• Phnom Penh (1 Day): S-21 Genocide Museum, shoot big guns and things that go “boom,” markets (Russian Market + food stalls), temples (Wat Phnom), a river cruise on the Mekong
• Siem Reap/Angkor Wat (2 Days): Angkor Wat by tuk tuk ($25 for Tuk Tuk + $37 entry ticket) tour starting at sunrise, night market experiences of The Lane + Pub Street
• Optional (2-3 Days): Sihanoukville to Koh Rong and Koh Ron Samleon island for white sands, clear waters, and phosphorescent plankton
• Optional – Kampot: A low key town best for backpackers, enjoy riverside cocktails and food, rent a scooter for a fun half-day ride through the hills nearby

CAMBODIA IN PICTURES

BUDGETING AND COSTS IN CAMBODIA

• Hotel Room Per Night: $35
• Average Meal: $6
• Daily Budget: $25 to $70 + fees for major attractions
• Note: Siem Reap will be much more expensive than Phnom Penh, Kampot, and Koh Rong

GETTING AROUND CAMBODIA

• Plan to travel between cities by bus booked through your hostel or hotel, or at a local travel kiosk.  Aim to only travel between cities during the day due to safety risks (bandits, robberies targeting foreigners on roads between cities at night).

CAMBODIA VISA STRATEGY

e-Visa valid for 30-day stay costing $36 USD available at the Kingdom of Cambodia visa pagehttps://www.evisa.gov.kh/

PACKING ESSENTIALS FOR CAMBODIA

Fanny pack/bum bag or other means of tightly securing valuables from “run-by” bag thieves

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN CAMBODIA

Absolutely necessary! Confirm coverage includes medical evacuation

Most reputable travel insurance options will do because there are few “high risk” activities to do in Cambodia.  I highly recommend SafetyWing for budget travelers and World Nomads for travelers with larger budgets.  Due to the risk of getting sick (stomach bugs) and relatively poor medical facilities, having medical evacuation coverage with your travel insurance is highly recommended.

WHEN TO VISIT CAMBODIA

Visit during the dry season between November and May, with November to February being the coolest months. Visiting during the dry season ensures the weather will be suitable for the Angkor Wat experience. 

Cambodia’s wet season is from June to September.  Expect extreme heat (highs of ~35 Celsius, 95 Fahrenheit) between March and June

ESSENTIAL BOOKS AND MOVIES ABOUT CAMBODIA

The Killing Fields (movie)

GETTING TO CAMBODIA

Arriving in Cambodia from Vietnam, a 6-hour bus ride from Ho Chi Minh city to Phnom Penh is the best entry plan.  When arriving from anywhere else to Cambodia , an international flight into Phnom Penh or Siem Reap is the best, cheapest, most efficient option.

MOVING ON FROM CAMBODIA

Fly on to Chiang Mai or Bangkok in Thailand or to Ho Chi Minh city or Hanoi in Vietnam to continue the Banana Pancake Trail.

THAILAND 3 WEEK ITINERARY

The original “backpacker” paradise: Street food, beautiful islands, and peaceful hill country

HIGHLIGHT EXPERIENCES IN THAILAND 

• Excellent starter destination
• Street food (Bangkok and Chiang Mai Old Town)
• Bangkok backpacker experience
• Khao Sak National Park
• Hill Country and Monastaries (Chiang Mai and Pai)

LOWLIGHTS OF TRAVELING IN THAILAND

• Fading “backpacker” vibe, as prices rise and heavy tourism takes over

OVERALL RATING FOR THAILAND

• Tourist Rating: 9/10
• Adventure Rating: 9/10
• Backpacker Travel Rating: 9/10

CHIANG MAI (3 DAYS)

Walking tour of Old Town Chiang Mai + visit the Temples around Old Town Chiang Mai ( Wat Rajamontean , Wat Lok Molee , Wat Suan Dok ), visit Wat Doi Suthep in the hill country + Doi Suthep hike, visit the many Old Town and Nimman Street Food Night Markets, Thai Traditional Massage Experience, take a Thai cooking class, visit the mega mall and a hipster café in Nimman.  Also, check out the many Chiang Mai cafes and coworking spaces to plan the rest of your trip.

Getting to Chiang Mai: Take the train from Bangkok (booked at the train station), then take a red collective taxi (the pickup trucks) for 35 Baht to your destination

PAI (2-3 DAYS)

Rent a motorbike (from the main road) to cruise and explore the hills of Pai, then ride and hike to the following adventure spots: Mae Yen waterfall, the World War II Memorial Bridge (Japanese Bridge), the short yet beautiful Pai Canyon hike by sunset. Take a cave tour (Tham Lod is a good choice). By night, enjoy street food at the Pai Night Market ( here ) on the main road.

Getting to Pai: Book a shared van through your hostel/hotel or 12go.Asia to Pai. You’ll take the same van back to Chiang Mai when moving on

My Personal Notes on Pai: Pai is a backpacker haven where solo travelers will make tons of friends.  Stay at a good hostel close to the main strip, be social, and make the most of the time.  Rent a motorbike (~150 Baht per day on the main street of Pai) for ultimate freedom.

BANGKOK (3 TO 5 DAYS)

Party on Khao San Road, explore the street food scenes near Khao San Road and in China town, eat a whole suckling pig (like Anthony Bourdain) at Tang Jai Yoo restaurant, visit the airplane graveyard and the flooded mall, visit the Bangkok floating market, explore around the Chao Praya River and ancient royal district, visit the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, visit Wat Pho temple to see the golden reclining Buddha and get an amazing traditional Thai massage, visit Siam or Chatuchak Weekend Market.  Also, consider the Damnoen Saduak Floating Markets & Bridge on River Kwai day trips from Bangkok.

KRABI / RAILAY (3 DAYS)

Enjoy Railay Beach, rent a motorbike and ride to the Tiger Cave Temple (+1,237 steps), party at Soi RCA, street food at Ao Nang Night Market, dip in the Emerald Pool and hot spring-fed waterfalls, jungle trek through Khao Sak National Park, swing under the huge cave at Hollow Mountain, hike to the Hang Nak Mountain for a towering viewpoint, raft the Songprak River.

KO PHI PHI (2-3 DAYS)

Maya bay day trip, boat tour between the islands, lots of beach time, or consider Ko Lanta for a more peaceful experience as Ko Phi Phi tends to be a party island

KOH TAO (2-3 DAYS)

Rent a motorbike and snorkel and cruise between beaches to sun and snorkel, consider taking a course for SCUBA dive certification, join the Ko Tao pub crawl that happens nightly for new friends and some interesting experiences, sunset at Mango Bay, Love Koh Tao Viewpoint Café for coffee.

KO PHA NGAN (2-3 DAYS)

Full Moon Party ( Full Moon Party calendar here for 2020 + 2021 ), half-moon beach party, wander between and soak up the sun on countless beaches, hop between waterfalls, Thong Sala Night Market for street food, explore the forbidden on at “Eden,” smoke some “stuff” at Amsterdam Bar.

THAILAND IN PICTURES

TRAVEL BUDGET AND COSTS IN THAILAND

• Nice Hostel Bed per Night: ~$10
• Private Hostel Room or Hotel Room Per Night: $20-$30
• Average Meal: ~$3
• Daily Budget: $30
• Pad Thai – Thai Stir-Fried Noodles
• Khao Pad/Khao Pad Kai – Fried Rice/Chicken Fried Rice
• Pad Krapao – Fried Basil and Chicken/Pork
• Panang – Thai Curry
• Guay Teow – “Noodle Soup”
• Tom Yum Goong – Spicy Shrimp Soup
• Tom Kha Gai – Chicken in Coconut Soup
• Som Tam – Papaya Salad
• Laab Moo/Ka – Spicy Pork/Chicken Salad
• Pad See Eiw – Stir-Fried Thick Noodles
• Pak Boong – Morning Glory
• Salted, grilled fish (street food)
• A “bucket” of alcohol – on Khao San Road, or in the Thai Islands

GETTING AROUND THAILAND

• Between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, traveling by train is your best option, bookable at 12Go.Asia or directly at the train station.  Still, use 12Go to find timetables.
• For any other travel in mainland Thailand (Chiang Mai to Pai, Chiang Rai, Krabi), aim for vans and buses, best booked at one of the many small travel agent kiosks throughout Bangkok, or 12Go.Asia
• Traveling by ferry is the obvious option for travel between islands .  It is best to book in advance at your port of departure or at one of the small travel agent kiosks you will see around.

VISA STRATEGY THAILAND

Thailand’s Visa Exemption is free and allows most nationalities to stay up to 30 days, but beware; you are only allowed two visas exemptions per year. Note that you must have a confirmed departure ticket (from Thailand) within 30 days from arrival.  You may be required to show proof that you have at least 10,000 Thai Baht (in any currency), but this part is rarely enforced

If you plan on expat’ ing or traveling Asia extensively, it is best to get a 60-day Tourist Visa in advance (at most Thai embassies and consulates) and save the Visa Exemptions.  Thailand is a great fall back location if something goes wrong anywhere else. Bangkok is a great hub for getting anywhere else – keeping at least one visa exemption creates a great backup plan when travels elsewhere in Asia go sour.

Thailand is an extremely developed destination, and you will likely be able to find anything you need on the road in Bangkok. 

You will absolutely be adventuring heavily through wet and dry climates, so a good pair of adventure-ready sandals are crucial as well as a pair of adventure-ready shoes or boots .

Leave the roller luggage at home and bring a good travel backpack and daypack, ideally carry on size.

Bring a rain jacket or waterproof shell as Thailand does have those surprise Asia rains year-round – or go cheap and buy a poncho on arrival

TRAVEL INSURANCE IN THAILAND

Though traveling Thailand can be exciting and slightly risky, hiking canyons, SCUBA diving, and cliff jumping, most reputable travel insurance companies will do for the adventure – so stick with travel insurance you know and trust, but check to ensure they cover any of your “crazier” activities (like SCUBA diving or freediving )

If you’re searching for travel insurance suitable for Thailand, I highly recommend Safetywing as a budget option and World Nomads if you have the extra cash to spare.  Both have served me very well during my travels.

WHEN TO VISIT THAILAND

November to early April is the best time to enter Thailand, during the cool, dry season, but this applies mostly to mainland Thailand.  For coastal Thailand, on the Gulf of Thailand in the east and the Andaman Sea in the west, the dry and wet season aligns with summer and winter.  Because of this, Thailand always has an island to runaway to for great relaxing and diving.

ESSENTIAL BOOKS AND MOVIES FOR TRAVELING TO THAILAND

The Beach is a classic and arguably the quintessential “backpacking” movie.

GETTING THERE TO THAILAND

Flying into Bangkok is your best, and cheapest bet as Bangkok connects to most major international destinations

MOVING ON FROM THAILAND

If you are just starting the “Banana Pancake Trail” backpacking tour through Southeast Asia, continue east to Luang Prabang, Laos.  The journey (via bus then boat) is best started from Chiang Mai.

If you’ve already completed the basic Banana Pancake Trail (Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam), consider continuing through Southeast Asia to create a more “tailored” experience.  Add one or two of the following “additional” countries in Southeast to your itinerary to build in specific adventures and specific experiences that are especially meaningful to you.

THE BEST “ADDITIONAL COUNTRIES” TO CONSIDER ADDING TO YOUR SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY

The core itinerary of Southeast Asia – Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos – is perfect for any traveler and easy to do enjoyably within two months.  For those travelers with three months to spare, this extra month leaves a fantastic chance to experience a few more of South Asia’s gems of travel.

Each of the countries listed below is just as easily traveled as the other core SEA countries but offers something special, making it one of the world’s best places to experience that.

Cap off the adventure of your dreams by adding one or two of these countries to the end of your itinerary based on what you love about travel.

ITINERARIES FOR THE BEST “ADDITIONAL COUNTRIES”

MYANMAR (1 TO 2 WEEKS)

• Mandalay (2 Days): U Pein Bridge by sunrise, a bike tour of Mandalay, Mandalay Hill by sunset, Jade market
• Bagan (Day 2): Take an “e-bike” mounted tour past thousands of temples (~$4), sit atop a temple for sunrise and sunset overlooking the Bagan Archeological Zone
• Inle Lake trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake (2 to 4 Days): ~$30 USD for a two-day trek
• Inle Lake Experience  (2 Days): Tour Inle Lake by boat, Mingala Market, Pindaya Caves, cooking class
• Optional: Yangon (Rangoon) (2 Days):  Bagyoke Market, Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon Circular Train experience

Highlight Experiences: 1000’s of ancient temples in Bagan, trekking through the rural country, witnessing a floating city on Inle Lake, Mount Popa, and the monastery (on the way from Bagan to Kalaw)

SRI LANKA (3 WEEKS)

Note: The best Sri Lanka itinerary in the south is heavily dependent on the monsoon season.  Plan accordingly with the timelines below to avoid being caught in a storm

DECEMBER TO APRIL SRI LANKA ITINERARY

(Start on the Southwest Coast for Beaches)

• Colombo/Negombo (2 Days): Consider renting a tuk tuk to drive yourself around Sri Lanka
• Hikkaduwa (1 Day): A small beach town an hour outside of Negombo with great surfing and cheap hotels (and beach bars) ~20ft from the beach
• Galle (1 Day): Visit the beautiful Dutch Galle Fort, walking on the fort’s wall’s by sunset
• Weligama (2 Days): Enjoy relaxing surfing in the sandy-bottomed and calm Weligama Bay
• Tangalle (1 to 2 Days): Spend a day on beautiful, desolate beaches
• Tissamaharama & Yala National Park:
• à Proceed onto the northern circuit to Ella and cultural triangle

APRIL TO DECEMBER SRI LANKA ITINERARY

(Focus on the Southeast Coast for Beaches)

• Colombo/Negombo (2 Days): Considering renting a tuk tuk to drive yourself around Sri Lanka
• Tangalle (1 Day optional and weather dependent on the season): Spend a day on beautiful, desolate beaches
• Yala National Park Safari via Tissamaharama (1 Day): Take a jeep tour through Yala National Park ($35 to $90) to see leopards, elephants, crocs, peacocks, and more, follow up with a   self-guided tour of Yala by Tuk Tuk ending at the Sithulpawa Monastery, sleep in Yala National Park
• Arugam Bay (3 Days): Soak up sun and vibes in this cozy surf town with varied, mellow waves suitable for new and advanced surfers alike
• Proceed onto the northern circuit and cultural triangle

CONTINUE ONTO THE NORTHERN CIRCUIT AND CULTURAL TRIANGLE ITINERARY

• Ella (3 Days): A beautiful mountain town in the cool, high country filled with trekking and surrounded by tea plantations.  This town is built around backpackers and tourism and is arguably the comfiest city in Sri Lanka (tying with Arugam Bay)
• Ella/Nuwar Eliya to Kandy Train Ride (1 Full Day): The most beautiful train ride in the world, stretching a 2 to 9-hour ride through Sri Lanka’s green high country
• Nuwara Eliya (2 Days): A once English settlement that maintains its British roots and is a perfect base for the epic Adam’s Peak hike
• Kandy (1 Day): A big city and gateway to Sri Lanka’s cultural heart
• Dambulla/Sigiriya (1 Day): A tour of ancient caves turned into monasteries at Dambulla and the epic Lion’s Rock of Sigiriya, both with insane backstories reminiscent of Game of Thrones
• Anuradhapura (1 Day): Spend a day wandering the 1000+-year-old temples, castles, and ruins that make the entire city an archeological site comparable to Angkor Wat and Bagan

Highlight Experiences: Driving a tuk tuk around a country, surfing, wild animal safaris, ruins,

BALI, INDONESIA (2 WEEKS)

• Canggu (3 Days): Learn to surf and soak up the sun in Bali’s hipster center and favorite surf village on the beach filled with trendy bars, cafés, yoga studios, and endless nightlife (+ Seminyak and Kuta)
• Ubud (3 Days): Visit the spiritual heart of Bali tucked in the mountains and hills of rice field laden high country for trekking, jungle excursions, monkey forests, and cultural experiences
• The “Gili’s” (2 Days): Disappear to the islands free of cars and motorbikes for parties and peace & quiet with white sand beaches and plenty of turtles in between.  Great for SCUBA diving and snorkeling
• Nusa Lembongan (2 Days): Head to an even smaller island for amazing surfing and diving all in one spot
• Uluwatu & the Bukit (3 Days) : Crystal clear turquoise waters and some of the best surfing and most beautiful beaches in Bali along with cultural experiences like seafood markets, temples, and Kecak dances
• Optional: Amed (snorkeling and diving), Medewi (longboard surfing), Candidasa (peaceful and quiet)

Highlight Experiences: Beautiful beaches, spiritual experiences, SCUBA and freediving, surfing, hipster traveler/backpacker partying

THE PHILIPPINES (3 TO 4 WEEKS)

• Manilla (2 days): Explore mega malls, museums, and plenty of food
• Cebu City (1 day): Move quickly on to Oslob
• Oslob, Cebu (2 days): Dive with whale sharks
• Dumaguete (2 days): Snorkel and SCUBA dive with turtles and beautiful coral on “Turtle Island” aka Apo Island
• Bohol (2 days): Motorbike rides to the chocolate hills and nightlife on the beach
• El Nido (3 days): Consider a liveaboard cruise (like Tao Philippines), rock climb, sun on the beach, cruise a motorbike around the many beautiful beaches
• Coron (3 days): Take a boat tour each day to the most beautiful and recently discovered destinations for mainstream travelers
• Siargao (Optional): Surf and sun in this hip new destination made famous by Red Bull surfing

Highlights: Day trip boat cruises, pristine beaches, and waters, amazing diving, liveaboard cruises, swimming with whale sharks

When to Visit: November to April is the dry season & peak tourist season.  April is best for whale shark sightings

Optional Additions: Volcano country, eco-friendly whale shark diving in Donsol

NEPAL (2 TO 3 WEEKS)

• Kathmandu (2 Days): Acclimatize and pick up the gear you’ll need for your trek of choice
• One Trekking Route: Everest Base Camp (12-14 days) or Annapurna Circuit (20 days)

Highlights: Trekking in the Himalayas

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES ABOUT BACKPACKING THE WORLD

• The 9 Best South America Backpacking Routes for 2 Weeks to 6 Months of Travel
• 5 Essential Routes for Backpacking the World and Visiting Every Continent
• The Balkan Walk: The Perfect Backpacking Itinerary for the Balkans
• 3 Months in Southeast Asia: A Perfect Plan for the the “Banana Pancake Trail”
• The Mini Backpacking Trails: 15 Itineraries Aroudn the World for 2 Weeks or Less

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

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• South Korea
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• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
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• China Travel Reviews

6-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary Guidance for First-Timers

A 6-week Southeast Asia tour could be a wonderful gift for a big birthday, a romantic milestone, or perhaps retirement...

In this article, we offer suggestions on allocating your time, a classic itinerary, and cost ranges to help you plan your dream trip.

How to Spend Your 6 Weeks in Southeast Asia

• A Classic 6-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary

Costs for a 6-Week Private Southeast Asia Tour

Instead of the popular 2–3 weeks in Southeast Asia that many choose, you could take advantage of a slower travel pace, visit more eye-opening destinations, enjoy leisurely days in a tropical paradise, and have a more flexible travel schedule with 6 weeks.

When selecting your destinations, you're suggested to balance adventure with relaxation. Among the 10+ Southeast Asian countries, Thailand, Indonesia (mainly Bali) , Malaysia, and the Philippines are great choices for beach vacations. Thailand is the most popular destination among them for its more comprehensive and diverse experience.

Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar have their hidden gems where you can deeply experience their cultures and rustic life. Meanwhile, if you seek a leisurely feel with some adventure opportunities, Vietnam is an excellent place to go.

For a comfortable tour pace, visiting around 5 countries in 6 weeks is suggested. If you aim to see the multiple facets of Southeast Asia, SE Asia's top five destinations (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar) are the best choice for first-timers. You could get some itinerary ideas from our hand-picked 28-day Grand Indochina tour >>>

By planning changes of pace into your itinerary, you could leisurely refresh/recharge at a spa resort or on a sunny beach after every activity-filled week. Travelling on a private tour with some free days offers the perfect mix of guided exploration and independent discovery as well .

For any other interests, simply contact us to customize your itinerary based on your preferences.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

A Classic 6-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar

If this is your first time visiting Southeast Asia and you are seeking a diverse range of experiences, this itinerary is ideal for you. You would discover the core nations of the Southeast Asia peninsula: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

With this 6-week Southeast Asia trip plan, you can fully indulge in an awesome range of activities: our well-organized food-hunting tours, exclusive Angkor Wat walking tour, carefully-selected 3-day Ha Long Bay cruise...

In addition, staying at character-filled boutique hotels would make your trip especially memorable (perfect for unique and romantic occasions) : elegant 1920s-style hotels, floating houses, jungle hotels, tree houses, and cliff hotels with infinity pools...

For an energetic-to-relaxing pace sequence, you're suggested to travel Myanmar–Thailand–Cambodia–Laos–Vietnam. Here's a classic 6-week Southeast Asia itinerary that we can customize based on your preferences:

8 Days in Myanmar: Mandalay – Bagan – Inle Lake – Yangon

• Days 1–2 in Mandalay (city tour with temples, witness thousands of monks dining, watch the sunset over U Bein Bridge)
• Days 3–4 in Bagan (underground monastery, local markets, and sunset balloon ride over 2,000 pagodas)
• Days 5–6 at Inle Lake (floating villages, floating markets, stunning lake view, and traditional fishing)
• Days 7–8 in Yangon (an interesting local train ride, museums, and Shwedagon Pagoda at sunset)

In Myanmar, Bagan promises to be a memory-making treasure, particularly for romantic celebrations . You and your partner could find great photo opportunities from the grand pagodas complex to a sunrise/sunset balloon ride.

A trip to Inle Lake would unveil traditional floating-village life to you. In Yangon, visiting Shwedagon Pagoda at sunset would showcase the locals' devout Buddhist faith. Every Saturday evening, you would have a chance to take part in its candlelight-themed grand ceremony.

13 Days in Thailand: Chiang Mai – Phuket – Bangkok

• Days 9–12 in Chiang Mai (foodie tour, flower market visit, elephant sanctuary, hill tribe trek)
• Days 13–17 on Phuket (5 days of beach time, your choice of activities)
• Days 18–21 in Bangkok (Grand Palace, temples, railway market, and a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, excursion to Kanchanaburi)

Compared with Myanmar, Thailand offers more active and various experiences. You would explore its top three destinations: Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai.

In Chiang Mai, walking and bathing elephants together would be a special and memorable experience. A romantic Yi Peng Festival experience could be an added bonus when travelling around November .

To take you away from the hustle and bustle, a hill tribe trek in Chiang Mai and an overnight floating house stay in Kanchanaburi would definitely be highlights during your trip .

For a tropical getaway, Phuket is a great choice, known for its stunning beaches and abundant water activities. Alternatively, Koh Samui would be better if you're keen on a more romantic vibe.

Check out more ideas about planning your dream trip to Thailand >>>

3 Days in Siem Reap, Cambodia

• Days 22–24 in Siem Reap (Angkor Wat, Apsara Dance Show, 1-hour sunset quad bike ride, sunset cocktail on Tonle Sap Lake)

In Cambodia, Angkor Wat is not to be missed. You could walk through the main complex illuminated by a Khmer scholar, or bike to discover somewhere less crowded with our local guides. Our exclusive sunset cocktail boat trip would help to create beautiful moments for you and your beloved.

4 Days in Luang Prabang, Laos

• Days 25–28 in Luang Prabang (offering alms to monks in the early morning, temples, Royal Palace, waterfall, sunset long-tail boat ride, free days)

Luang Prabang is filled with a romantic and cultural atmosphere. Almsgiving would allow you and your partner to engage with local life , and a sunset long-tail boat ride would be a beautiful journey. During your free days, explore the local streets, sample authentic Laotian food, soak in a traditional spa… make memories your way!

14 Days in Vietnam: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh – Phu Quoc Island

• Days 29–30 in Hanoi (Old Quarter cyclo tour, museums, water puppet show)
• Days 31–33 in Ha Long Bay (Trung Trang Cave, squid fishing, cooking class, biking around a rustic village near Ha Long Bay)
• Days 34–35 in Hoi An (lantern-making, sunset boat ride, an evening foodie tour)
• Days 36–37 in Ho Chi Minh City (city tour with Vietnamese coffee experience, the Cu Chi Tunnels)
• Days 38–42 on Phu Quoc Island (your choice of beach-time activities)

Two weeks is recommended to discover a variety of Vietnam destinations: from northern Hanoi to southern Phu Quoc Island.

While in Vietnam, we highly recommend a 3-day Ha Long Bay cruise for undisturbed scenery and quality private hours. Escaping from the large one-day groups and regular 2-day travelers, you'll enjoy more fantastic activities onboard or ashore, such as biking in a rustic area.

Hoi An offers an immersive laid-back atmosphere. You could stroll hand in hand around the ancient town, take a foodie tour and take photos in traditional Vietnamese clothing with your partner.

Tranquil Phu Quoc Island is a perfect destination to conclude your Southeast Asia trip. You could indulge in picturesque island scenery, enjoy couple massages, and relax in your boutique hotel with swim-up pool rooms.

If Phu Quoc Island would not be your top choice, Sapa is a more active and interesting alternative. Hiking through the mountain paths presents you with the best countryside views and ethnic life in northern Vietnam. Contact us to customize your own itinerary!

Want More Itinerary Options?

The above-mentioned itinerary has been welcomed by our clients as the basis for many a customized tour, but we are always ready to tailor-make a fulfilling tour for you from your dream-trip ideas.

For example, if you prefer a slower tour pace and in-depth explorations, you could focus on the classic Southeast Asia trifecta — Thailand (2 weeks), Vietnam (2½ weeks), and a Mekong River Cruise (1 week) to Cambodia (3 days).

If you have your own bucket list or want to travel to Southeast Asia along with Japan or China , just let us know . If you don't have enough inspiration yet, check out our Best Southeast Asia Tour Packages .

Southeast Asia offers affordable, premium-quality, and hassle-free private touring, making it an excellent choice for milestone trips.

At around US$200–250 per day per person, you can enjoy 4/5-star hotels, excellent meals, convenient transport, and private, customized touring. Thus, a six-week couple's private tour in Southeast Asia costs about US$16,000–21,000, excluding international airfares.

Seasonal changes impact Southeast Asia's prices, with the highest rates from November to April during the dry season and the lowest from May to October during the rainy season, which is still quite travel-worthy, featuring mostly brief 1–2-hour afternoon rainfall.

For budget-conscious travelers seeking optimal weather, consider inviting friends or family for a shared and memorable experience that makes the same trip season cost less.

Personalizing Your Southeast Asia Trips With Us

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, budgets, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

In addition to the above itineraries, we also have other itineraries you may be interested in:

• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam
• 28-Day Grand Indochina Tour
• More Southeast Asia Tours

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
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• Maximize Your Flexibility:
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• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
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• 19-Day Highlights Tour of Southeast Asia: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam
• 14-Day Classic Vietnam and Thailand Tour
• 12-Day Best of Thailand and Cambodia Tour
• How to Visit Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam 2024: 10, 14 and 21-Day Itinerary Ideas
• How to Plan a 2024 Trip to Southeast Asia With Itinerary & Cost
• Southeast Asia Itinerary for 2 Weeks 2024 (Tailored for Beginners)
• Southeast Asia Itinerary for 3 Weeks: Best 5 Ideas in 2024
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The most amazing 3 month southeast asia itinerary.

If you’re thinking of going on a backpacking adventure, Southeast Asia is a great choice. In fact, this fascinating region is a very popular choice for first-time backpackers, as well as avid adventurers. Coupled with the low cost of travel, incredible activities, and sights to offer everyone, you can’t go wrong. This sub-region boasts out of this world scenery, unique cultures, mouth-watering food, buzzin’ metropolitan cities, and heavenly tropical beaches. So, without further ado, let’s dive right into this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. We cover a whopping 8 countries, recommend the best route to take, how long to spend in each place, the must-see attractions, and give recommendations of where to stay.

Disclosure: Untold Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Northern Thailand (13 days)

Bangkok (3 days).

This Southeast Asia travel route starts in the heart of Thailand; Bangkok.

How to get to Bangkok: This itinerary kicks off in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. Bangkok boasts a large international airport, making it super easy and convenient for tourists to find cheap flights from places such as Europe or the USA. We recommend checking Skyscanner for the best deals and prices.

Top attractions:

The Grand Palace Wat Arun Shopping at Chatuchak Market Party on Khao San Road Taling Chan Floating Market Wat Samphan Temple (Pink Dragon)

Where to stay in Bangkok: Comfy Bed Hostel for a dorm, or Amarin Inn for a budget private room.

Ayutthaya (2 days)

How to get to Ayutthaya: 2-hour minivan from Moh Chit BTS Station in Bangkok. The cost is 50 Baht ($1.65). Or take a tour from Bangkok .

Ancient town Cycle ride around the temple complex

Where to stay in Ayutthaya: A cute boathouse with cheap double rooms, Ayutthaya Riverside House.

Chiang Mai (3 days)

How to get to Chiang Mai: A comfy 9-hour VIP bus for $24.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple Take a Thai cooking class Doi Inthanon National Park Eat at the night markets or take a food course and tour Go water crazy at the Songkran festival (April)

Where to stay in Chiang Mai: Red Brick Guesthouse for a dorm room

Pai ( 3 days)

How to get to Pai: Take a 3 hours mini-van ride for $6

Explore on a scooter Pai Canyon Pam Bok Waterfall Love Strawberry Farm Land Split Bamboo Bridge

Where to stay in Pai: Pai Loess Resort for a private double room

Chiang Rai ( 2 days)

How to get to Chiang Rai: 7.5 hours mini-van journey , costing $18

White Temple Black House Tea plantations Golden Triangle House of opium

Where to stay in Chiang Rai: Busket Hostel for a cheap modern dorm

For a more detailed Thailand backpacking guide, don’t miss this post!

Laos (8 days)

Luang prabang (3 days).

How to get to Luang Prabang: 2-day slow boat from Chiang Rai

Kuang Si Waterfalls Watch the morning Tak Bat Phousi Hill & Temple Night market Late-night bowling alley

Where to stay in Luang Prabang: Sok Dee Guesthouse for a cheap cosy double room

Vang Vieng (3 days)

How to get to Vang Vieng: 5-hour mini-van ride for $16

Tubing on the Nam Song River Blue Lagoon Phu Kham Cave

Where to stay in Vang Vieng: Faraway Suites for either a dorm room or a private room

Vientiane (2 days)

How to get to Vientiane: 4-hour bus that costs $9

Explore the city by bicycle Buddha Park COPE Museum

Where to stay in Vientiane: My Box Hostel & Cafe , great value for money dorm rooms

Don’t forget to check out our ultimate 2-week Laos itinerary here!

Vietnam (20 days)

Hanoi (3 days).

How to get to Hanoi: 22-hour sleeper bus that costs $32. This is a super long journey so you may prefer to fly instead.

Hoan Kiem Lake St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hoa Lo Prison Train Street Take a food tour Bia Hoi Street Hanoi Night Market Drink egg coffee at the Note Coffee shop

Where to stay in Hanoi: Nexy Hostel for a super clean, modern dorm

For more things to do in Hanoi at night, don’t miss this post!

Ha Long Bay (2 days)

How to get to Ha Long Bay: Scheduled tour from Hanoi

Limestone islands Kayaking

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: On the boat.

Sapa (3 days)

How to get to Sapa: 6-hour bus for $12

Ride the Fansipan cable car Go on a trek through the rice terraces Meet H’Mong tribes Drink at the H’Mong Sisters

Where to stay in Sapa: Sapa Village Hotel for a modern stay overlooking the mountains

Ninh Binh (2 days)

How to get to Ninh Binh: 9-hour bus for $17

Cycle through rice paddies Eat at Chookies Hang Mua Caves Tang An boat ride Bich Dong Pagoda

Where to stay in Ninh Binh: Amira Homestay for a cosy stay & free bicycle rental

Hue (2 days)

How to get to Hue: 11-hour bus for $14

Old Citadel Abandoned water park Thien Mu Pagoda

Where to stay in Hue: Bon Ami Hostel  for cheap private rooms in a central location

Hoi An (4 days)

How to get to Hoi An: Ride the Hai Van Pass

Cycle around the old town Take a boat ride Shop for lanterns Stroll around the rice paddies Go shopping for lanterns Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills Eat Cao Lao noodles

Where to stay in Hoi An: The Serendipity Hostel for a dorm bed, or Aroma Homestay & Spa for a budget private room.

For a more detailed Hoi An guide, click here!

Dalat (3 days)

How to get to Dalat: 14-hour sleeper bus for $17

Drive around the mountains on a scooter Sip coffee by the romantic lake Go canyoning Crazy House The Clay Tunnel Eat Dalat Pizza

Where to stay in Dalat: Dalat Backpackers Hostel for a social dorm or private room, or Original Kens Backpacker Hostel for a more relaxed vibe

Don’t miss this amazing detailed Dalat itinerary !

Ho Chi Minh City (3 days)

How to get to Ho Chi Minh City: 7-hour bus for $22

Bui Vien drinking street Ben Thanh Market Saigon Notre Dame & Post Office War Remnants Museum Bitexco Tower Half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels Day trip to the Mekong Delta

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: Galaxy Capsule Hotel for a modern stay in the heart of the city

For a more detailed Vietnam itinerary, make sure to check out this awesome 3-week in Vietnam itinerary. Or, click here for a super detailed Vietnam travel guide .

Cambodia (9 days)

Phnom penh (2 days).

How to get to Phnom Penh: 6-hour bus for $12

The Killing Fields S21 Prison Royal Palace Silk tour at Angkor Artisans

Where to stay in Phnom Penh: Golden Boat 72 Guesthouse for a cheap, quiet retreat

Kampot (3 days)

How to get to Kampot: 3.5-hour mini-van for $9

Ride a scooter up Bokor Mountain Abandoned casino Kep fishing town Pepper farm Fireflies boat tour

Where to stay in Kampot: Marany Guesthouse for a private double room

Siem Reap (4 days)

How to get to Siem Reap: Take a bus back to Phnom Penh , which takes 3.5 hours and costs $9. You can either stay one night in Phnom Penh or if you leave early enough, take another direct minivan from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap . It takes 6 hours and costs $10.

Take a tuk-tuk tour of Angkor Wat and the other ancient temples Siem Reap Silk Farm Pub Street

Where to stay in Siem Reap: Pub Hostel for a social vibe with choices of dorms or private rooms

If you need a more in-depth itinerary for Cambodia, don’t forget to check out our backpacking Cambodia guide! Also, don’t forget to check if a Cambodia visa on arrival is available for your nationality or not.

Southern Thailand (10 days)

Bangkok (1 day).

How to get to Bangkok: 9-hour bus for $24

Koh Phangan (4 days)

How to get to Koh Phangan: From Bangkok, you will need to take an overnight bus and ferry. You can read in more detail about the trip here.

Thong Sala Night Market Phaeng Waterfall Paradise Waterfall Lazy beach days Explore by scooter

Where to stay in Koh Phangan: Backpackers Hacienda for a cheap stay with a pool overlooking the beach

Krabi (3 days)

How to get to Krabi: 6-hour high-speed ferry and bus that costs $18

Railay Beach Tonsai Beach Tiger Temple Emerald Pool

Where to stay in Krabi: J Hotel for a cheap double room with balconies overlooking the sea

Phuket (2 days)

How to get to Phuket: 3-hour mini-van costing $15

Beach days Bangala Road

Where to stay in Phuket: Bed Hostel for a social atmosphere and a choice of a dorm bed or private twin room

Malaysia (14 days)

Penang (5 days).

How to get to Penang: Take a direct flight from Phuket

Ride a bicycle around the street art Drink beer at the Elbow Corner Eat Wan Tan Mee Chew Jetty Kek Lo Si Temple Kapitan Keling Mosque

Where to stay in Penang: Rainbow House for a quiet stay, or Drippin’ Dragon Hostel for a social vibe & pool.

For a more detailed post on things to do in Penang at night , make sure to check out this awesome post!

Cameron Highlands (3 days)

How to get to Cameron Highlands: 4.5-hour bus for $10

Tea plantations Strawberry farm Parks

Where to stay in Cameron Highlands: Traveller Bunker Hostel for a range of dorms & a lively atmosphere

Kuala Lumpur (4 days)

How to get to Kuala Lumpur: 4.5-hour bus for $11

Petronas Towers KLCC Park China Town Little India Merdeka Square National Mosque Bukit Bintang

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur: Big M Hotel for affordable, modern private rooms, or Dorms KL 2 for cheap but super clean dorm beds.

If you only have 2 days spare for Kuala Lumpur, make sure to check out this ultimate Kuala Lumpur itinerary!

Melaka(2 days)

How to get to Melaka: 2-hour bus for $5

UNESCO town Dutch Square Ride a funky tri-shaw Hang out at the mall

Where to stay in Melaka: The Pillohouzzze for dorms and private rooms

For a more detailed itinerary, make sure to check out our backpacking Malaysia post!

Singapore (2 days)

How to get to Singapore: 4-hour bus for $8

Marina Bay Sands Gardens by the Bay Little India China Town Sentosa Island Universal Studios

Where to stay in Singapore: OSS Backpackers Hostel for a dorm bed, or Hotel Classic by Venue for a cheap double room

Click here for a more detailed Singapore itinerary!

Indonesia (9 days)

Yogyakarta (4 days).

How to get to Yogyakarta: Fly from either Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. If you choose to fly from Kuala Lumpur, you can take a direct 5-hour bus for $17 from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur.

Borobudur Temple Prambanan Temple Malioboro Market Taman Sari Rent a motorbike & ride in the mountains Eat gudeg

Where to stay in Yogyakarta: The Journey Hotel for budget stylish private rooms

You can read our full Yogyakarta itinerary here!

Bali (5 days)

How to get to Bali: Take a flight from Yogyakarta

Visit the rice terraces Relax on the beaches Explore waterfall after waterfall Go temple hopping Snorkelling on Gili T Party in Kuta

Where to stay in Bali: Grandmas Hotel for a cheap relaxing stay

Read a more detailed Indonesia itinerary here!

Myanmar (11 days)

Yangon( 2 days).

How to get to Yangon: Take a flight from Bali

Shwedagon Pagoda Ride the circular train Eat on 19th Street Watch a movie with the locals

Where to stay in Yangon: Agga Youth Hostel is one of the few properties that offer dorm beds. They also have private rooms too.

Bagan (3 days)

How to get to Bagan: Take a 10-hour night bus for $10

Watch sunrise and sunset over the thousands of ancient temples Get around by electric motorbike Jasmine Lacquer Ware Factory

Where to stay in Bagan: Shwe Na Di Guesthouse for a cheap homely guest house

Mandalay (2 days)

How to get to Mandalay: Take a 5.5-hour bus for $6

Mandalay Hill U Bein Bridge Hsinbyume Pagoda Old British Fort Watch the local football team, Yadanarbon

Where to stay in Mandalay: Hotel 82 for a cheap but heavenly stay

Inle Lake (4 days)

How to get to Inle Lake: 9-hour bus for $12

Take a tour of In le Lake Marvel at the floating villages Visit a silverware factory Visit a boat-making factory Explore the village by bicycle

Where to stay in Inle Lake: Silver Lake Hotel for a private double room

Don’t miss our ultimate Myanmar backpacking guide!

Your 3 month Southeast Asia travel route has come to an end

Phew! What an epic 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary . From Inle Lake, you can take a bus back to Yangon. From Yangon, you can either try to find cheap flights back home. However, we recommend heading back to Bangkok to fly from there, as international flights tend to be much cheaper.

How much does it cost to travel to Southeast Asia for 3 months?

This is a hotly debated topic among backpackers. One would proudly announce you can get by on as little as $15 a day, and one would argue that you would easily need $50. The truth is, is everyone is different, and so is their travel style. However, we won’t leave you hangin’. We will give you our recommendation on how much to budget for this 3-month Southeast Asia itinerary. Just remember, your travel style could be totally different from ours, so take this with a pinch of salt and judge your budget according to your preferences.

Our 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary budget

From our previous travels in Southeast Asia and living in Vietnam for 4 years, we would personally budget $50 per day for the two of us. Clean modern dorm rooms average $7 per night, whilst private double rooms average $12. Furthermore, local food in this region is super cheap and convenient, with almost every city and town serving up the most delicious meals from a cart on the market or the side of the road. You can easily eat three square meals a day for less than $10. In terms of activities, if you plan, you can do lots of exciting things for free. Most of the time, there is no need to pre-book tours! Getting around is made easy too, with plenty of scooter rentals, and motorbike taxi apps such as Grab.

Additional costs to consider

Further to your daily budget for your Southeast Asia trip, you will need to factor in the cost of flights and any visas you may need. Again, this is just our personal opinion of how much a reasonable budget for this itinerary is. If you want to go out partying every night, tuck into Western food, or sit back and relax in the comfort of air-conditioned taxis, you will, of course, need to increase your budget.

Looking for what to pack? Check out this essential Southeast Asia packing list !

Essential resources for this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Travel Insurance – No matter whether you’re travelling around Asia for 3 months or just a week, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . Bookaway offers multiple forms of transport, from buses, mini-vans, trains, and ferries. The routes on offer are extensive and certainly cover most of the backpacker trails. Bookaway works a little like Skyscanner but for overland transport. You will find plenty of transport options from a range of companies. All you simply need to do is book online and receive your ticket by email. The email will contain essential information, such as where the bus leaves from and departure and arrival times.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

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2 thoughts on “ The Most Amazing 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary ”

That s a great summary of your trip! How long did it take by boat to get to Luang Prabang? and similarly how long did it take to get to Hoi An? I d love to know the time it took with public transportation ??

Hi, Thanks for the comment. The slow boat to Luang Prabang takes 2 days. We have an entire post on it 🙂 check it out.

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Southeast asia starts here.

Coming up with a 2 month Southeast Asia itinerary is hard, no matter how well you know the region. For starters, it’s as much about choosing where you don’t want to go as it is deciding the places you will visit. Then, there’s sequencing and timing, and all the rest of the practical matters that planning any trip entails.

Although I have nearly 15 years of experience traveling in Southeast Asia, I’ve decided not to construct a post that dictates or preaches to you. Rather than telling you where to go, for example, or how long (necessarily) you should spend there, I want to inform and inspire you to create the trip that’s right for you.

Even if you’re feeling anxious now—trust me, I’ve been there—you’ll soon have a plan your can easily execute. Can’t you almost smell the Pad Thai noodles sizzling through the streets?

Practical Matters

When to visit southeast asia.

In most of Southeast Asia, the dry season takes place between about December and March. As a general rule, this is when you should plan this trip, although there are a couple exceptions. First, if you plan to travel heavily or primarily in Indonesia (where the dry and rainy seasons are “flipped” compared to the rest of Southeast Asia), you’ll actually want to visit between about June and September. Secondly, you should be aware that northern parts of Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam can be relatively cold at this time of year, in spite of also being dry.

Where to stay in Southeast Asia

As you plan your Southeast Asia itinerary (2 months or longer), you’ll be delighted to learn that accommodation in most of the region is extremely affordable. There are some notable exceptions to this—Singapore is outrageously expensively; Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are not nearly as cheap as they used to be—but as a general rule, your money goes farther here than it will anywhere else in the world.

• Traveling in Thailand ? While no longer as cheap as it used to be, this is still an affordable place to get a fancy hotel, particularly in Bangkok with high-end properties like Sofitel SO/Bangkok and the Eastin Grande Sathorn . In the islands, accommodations run the gamut from luxurious Rayavadee in Krabi ‘s gorgeous Railay , to simpler digs such as Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel in Phuket Town . Headed up north? I absolutely love the Riverside Guest House in Lampang .
• In my opinion, Vietnam (at least when it comes to hotels) is how Thailand was 10-15 years ago. From Hotel des Arts in Saigon to Hanoi ‘s chic Meritel , and from resort-style properties like Sin Chai Ecolodge in Sapa and Ancient House Resort & Spa in Hoi An , your money goes farther in Vietnam than it does in almost any other Southeast Asian country, in spite of Vietnam’s rapidly increasing popularity.
• As you explore underrated Malaysia , make sure to avail this country’s impressive selection of impressive hotels. From the five-star Majestic Hotel in Kuala Lumpur , to boutique properties like Cheong Fatt Tze in Penang and Ranee Boutique Suites in Kuching , Malaysia tends to be somewhere between Vietnam and Thailand in terms of price, although (if I’m honest) the subtler elegance of its hotels is often preferable, at least for me.
• I’ll be frank: Singapore is simply not a budget travel destination. You can make it into one— Atelier Chinatown is great if you don’t mind sharing your sleeping and bathing space; the Hotel 1888 Collection is bare-bones, but has private facilities—but you really need some cash to enjoy Singapore to the fullest. Not necessarily the sheer opulence of the Fullerton Hotel , mind you, but if you can splurge on (for example) the The Scarlet , your experience will be much more pleasant.

How to get around in Southeast Asia

Infrastructure in Southeast Asia has vastly improved over the time I’ve been traveling there, especially within cities. Still, the easiest (and often cheapest) way to navigate this region is by plane, usually (but not exclusively) using low-cost carriers such as AirAsia. If you’re unsure of how to get from place to place, I personally find that 12Go is a great tool for both research and booking.

Money, costs and communication

Another thing that’s vasty improved in Southeast Asia over the years? Money and payments. Specifically, being able to use credit cards (even though, as time passes, QR payments are definitely the most common ways to pay here). At the same time, you’ll likely need a bit of cash on you in most places—and unfortunately, every country uses different currency, which can complicate things. The good news is that airport exchange counters tend to offer competitive conversion rates, and low commissions, so you can change money either before you depart one place, or after you arrive in another.

Cost-wise, Southeast Asia is cheap, albeit not as cheap as it used to be. You can expect to pay around 50-100 USD per person, per day in most countries for modest private rooms, 2-3 meals per day and all your local transportation. While there’s technically no limit to how much you can spend, I find it difficult to go much beyond 200 USD per person, per day in most places, unless you’re simply trying to be extravagant.

Communication-wise, in a literal sense, English is all you need in most places, and certainly in countries like Singapore, the Philippines, Myanmar and Malaysia, where it’s an official language. In terms of communicating figuratively, WiFi is plentiful in Southeast Asia, though I do recommend staying connected via your mobile—either buy buying local SIM cards, or using a global travel plan like Google Fi —to make your life easier.

Visas for Southeast Asia

If you’re reading this page in English, you probably come from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or somewhere in Europe. If this is the case, congratulations: You can access most of Southeast Asia visa-free! I say “most” because there are notable exceptions: Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia require e-visas or visas on arrival, while Vietnam still requires you to apply for a visa in advance. If you’re unsure as to whether you require a visa to enter any country, contact the embassy or consulate of that nation in your place of citizenship.

Where to Go With 2 Months in Southeast Asia

No matter how extensive your Southeast Asia travel route—2 months, or something much shorter—you absolutely have to visit Thailand . Bangkok , in addition to being the de-facto hub of Southeast Asia, is one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Beyond this, you can divide your time between the Kingdom’s lush north (focus on the cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai , plus Lampang ) and the various islands and archipelagoes that define its south, from Samui , Tao and Pha Ngan islands in the Gulf of Thailand , to Phuket , Krabi and Trang in the Andaman Sea .

Another giant you can’t avoid during your 2 month Southeast Asia itinerary is Vietnam . I sort of consider Vietnam a wilder and more unruly Thailand, somewhat resembling an older version—maybe 10, 15 years—of the Kingdom. I usually like to go south-to-north, but you can reverse this order if you prefer. Begin in Saigon (aka Ho Chi Minh City ) and the Mekong Delta , heading northward to Da Nang (via coastal Mui Ne or Nha Trang , or hilly Da Lat ). Explore ancient Hoi An and imperial Hue , before heading north to the capital of Hanoi , scenic Ha Long Bay and finally to Sa Pa , which is rich with waterfalls and rice terraces.

Malaysia might just be the most underrated country you visit during your 2 months in Southeast Asia. While I go back and forth on the capital city of Kuala Lumpur , it’s impossible to deny the charm of Penang and its historical shophouses, or of Kuching , which sits on the edge of the rainforest. Visit tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands , scale Mt. Kinabalu in Borneo ‘s Sabah state or visit crystal mosques and some of Asia’s best islands in Terengganu on the east coast.

I’ll admit: It’s been controversial even to discuss visiting Myanmar for a hot minute. At the same time, if you can look past the politics, this country is one of the most unique in Southeast Asia. While not as ramshackle as it was when I first visited in 2010, today’s Myanmar remains captivating. Start in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay , before expanding outward. Do you prefer getting lost amid the temples of Bagan , relaxing on Inle Lake or having your mind blown amid the perfect beauty of the Mergui Archipelago ?

The bad news? In my opinion, the island of Bali is one of the worst places you can visit during your Southeast Asia 2 month itinerary. The good news? Indonesia is home to literally thousands of other islands. From hectic Java (home to manic Jakarta , charming Yogyakarta and the otherworldly Kawah Ijen volcano), to lush Borneo and its wild orangutans, to the paradisiacal Kawah Ijen archipelago, Indonesia is so much more than Bali.

In the past, I mostly saw Singapore as serving a functional role within a 2 month Asia itinerary: A respite from the craziness of the rest of the region. However, as time has passed and “the rest” of Southeast Asia has become less manic, I’ve started to appreciate Singapore for what it is: A city that’s also a country that’s also a microcosm of a continent. Organize your time in Singapore (it will likely be just a few days) around its ethnic neighborhoods— Little India , Chinatown and Malay-Muslim Kampong Glam —as well as around both the natural Singapore Botanic Garden and the delightfully artificial Gardens by the Bay.

Another small country whose borders you may cross during 2 months Southeast Asia is Cambodia . For most travelers, Cambodia requires a week or even less. Many will split their time between the oft-overlooked capital of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (home of Angkor Wat ); others will also choose to overlook PP. If you have longer or are more curious, you might also opt to hit the beaches of Koh Rong in the Gulf of Thailand , or travel overland to Laos—more on that in a minute.

As I explained earlier during this post, Laos is not a must-see if you have a 2 month itinerary Southeast Asia—I usually recommend it or Cambodia, but not both. If you do spend time in Laos, however, context matters. If you can, for example, you might take the “slow boat” from Chiang Rai, Thailand to Laos’ charming Luang Prabang , via off-the-beaten path Pak Beng . Another exciting way is up from Cambodia, via Don Det and the 4,000 Islands . Alternatively, you can fly to Vientiane or Luang Prabang if you’re pressed for time or simply can’t be bothered to travel overland.

The Philippines, Brunei and East Timor

I’m not including The Philippines last on my Southeast Asia 2 month itinerary because I don’t like it—that’s far from the truth. Rather, I haven’t been back there in a while, and so I don’t feel as comfortable recommending destinations and experience as I do for other countries on this list. However, if you have a couple of weeks to spare, make sure to follow up a long weekend in underrated Manila with some time on the country’s award-winning beaches, whether in mainstream Boracay , lush Palawan or off-the-beaten-path Siargao .

As far as Brunei is concerned? Well, it’s unique, I’ll say that. It’s a place I’m glad I went , but don’t necessarily care to visit again. I haven’t yet been to East Timor , and as of this moment have no plans to visit.

Is 2 Months Enough for Southeast Asia?

As you browse Southeast Asia backpacking routes, 2 months is typically the minimum recommended amount of time—this is not a coincidence. The region is huge, and although the infrastructure has improved massively in the 15 years I’ve been exploring it, can still be a place where the going is pretty slow. If you’re a backpacker who plans to rely primarily on land transport, in fact, I might actually suggest you devote 3-4 months (or even longer!) to Southeast Asia!

Indeed, this 2 month Southeast Asia itinerary is really optimized toward travelers seeking a slightly elevated travel experience. Some overland travel—the slow boat between Thailand and Laos; a couple of trains in Vietnam—but is primarily getting around using places. Select rural areas—Indonesia’s Blue Fire Volcano; the Chocolate Hills of the Philippines—but mostly staying in cities and enjoying day trips from there.

Other FAQ About Spending 2 Months in Southeast Asia

How much do you need to travel southeast asia for 2 months.

I usually count on spending an average of about 100 USD per person, per day when traveling in Southeast Asia. That translates to about 700 USD per person, per week and about 2,800 USD per person per month. This means that you can plan to spend between 5,000-6,000 USD per person to travel in Southeast Asia for 2 months, not including international flights (but including all your internal transport).

How long do you need in Thailand and Vietnam?

Thailand and Vietnam are two of the largest and most interesting countries in Southeast Asia—I usually recommend spending a minimum of three weeks in each. With this being said, you could divide a month between Vietnam and Thailand, if you’re very judicious about where you visit in each country. Hiring me as your Travel Coach would be very advisable in this situation.

How long to spend in Laos and Cambodia?

Laos and Cambodia are beautiful countries, but it’s not a coincidence that they sit geographically between the titans of Thailand and Vietnam: They’re simply neither are large nor as interesting as their more famous neighbors. Often times, I recommend that people with a shorter amount of time choose one of these two; in any case, even if you’ve got two months to explore Southeast Asia, don’t split more than two weeks between Cambodia and Laos.

The Bottom Line

If you’ve made it this far, then congratulations: You’ve got all the information you need to assemble the perfect 2 month Southeast Asia itinerary! Some of you will take a straightforward path—a couple weeks in Thailand; one split between Laos and Cambodia; three weeks in Vietnam or Indonesia, and then two in either Malaysia, Myanmar or the Philippines. For others, things might be a bit less structured, if they’re even set in stone at all. You might even end up staying in the region for a lot longer than two months! Still feeling stressed out at the thought of planning your trip? Consider hiring me as your Travel Coach!

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6 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary & Backpacking Route

This post about the ultimate 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary contains affiliate links.

Backpacking Southeast Asia has become more and more popular over the years with the increase in accessibility and availability to travel to the likes of Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam on a budget.

We spent almost 7 months travelling Southeast Asia and during that time we visited 7 different countries, and while it was incredibly challenging at times, it was also such a rewarding trip.

I think a backpacking trip around Southeast Asia is a definitive experience in any traveller’s life and whether you travel for 6 weeks, 6 months, or 6 years, it’s still a place that I think needs exploring at least once in your life.

This guide is pretty extensive and includes details about everything you need to know about the best Asia travel route, including a thorough itinerary of each country/city plus all the best things to know when planning a backpacking trip in Southeast Asia!

6 months backpacking Southeast Asia tour highlights

Planning your 6-month backpacking trip to Southeast Asia? Here’s a quick summary of the top tours and attractions I’d recommend!

• Day Trip to Nusa Penida , Atuh & Diamond Beach from Bali
• Snorkelling Tour of the Gili Islands
• El Nido Tour A – this was one of my favourite experiences in the Philippines !
• Bohol Island Day Tour – a great option if you don’t want to hire motorbikes
• Batu Caves Tour from Kuala Lumpur – one of my favourite places in KL!
• Universal Studios Singapore – definitely worth a visit!
• Wat Pho and Grand Palace Tour in Bangkok
• Island Hopping Day Trip to Phi Phi Islands
• Angkor Wat Sunrise Day Trip from Siem Reap
• Cu Chi Tunnels Day Tour

6 month Southeast Asia itinerary summary

• Indonesia – 1 to 2 months
• The Philippines – 1 month
• Malaysia – 2 to 4 weeks
• Singapore – 1 to 2 weeks
• Thailand – 1 months
• Cambodia – 2 to 4 weeks
• Vietnam – 1 month

How much money do you need for 6 months in Southeast Asia?

Now, I know the first question that’s gonna be on your mind is how much did we spend in total while backpacking Southeast Asia?

While I didn’t keep track of absolutely every single purchase, since we returned home, I’ve combed through our bank statements meticulously to find out a very close estimate of how much we spent…

We spent £5,550.03 each during our 7(ish) months in Southeast Asia. This works out to approximately £792.87 each per month.

Of course, we spent more in some countries than others ( Singapore for example, was pretty expensive, whereas we spent significantly less in Cambodia and the Philippines ), but a good estimate of how much you’re likely to spend backpacking Southeast Asia is between £700 and £800 each, each month.

This will depend entirely on exactly which countries you’re travelling to and the type of travel you plan on doing – e.g. extreme budget, mid-range or luxury travel.

Our expenditure is a very accurate representation of a low to medium-range budget.

Read more: How Much Money We Spent Travelling NZ, Australia & Southeast Asia

Indonesia – backpacking Southeast Asia route

Length of stay: 1-2 months

Where to go in Indonesia – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Before we flew to Indonesia , I had no idea just how big the country is – it’s frigging enormous . In the grand scheme of things, we barely scratched the surface of places to go in Indonesia and I’ve mentioned it before, but it really isn’t my favourite place in the world .

While we did enjoy Gili T and Nusa Penida somewhat, Bali just didn’t live up to the incredibly high expectations I had of it from all the hype I’d heard on Instagram and from other travellers. However, I still think it’s a place that’s worth seeing for yourself, especially if you’re planning on doing an epic trip around Southeast Asia.

We spent two months in Indonesia as we travelled very slowly, spending weeks at a time in most places. However, you could easily spend just one month there, depending on where you want to go and how much time you want to spend in each place.

Here are a few recommendations of where to go in Indonesia.

Read more: My Top 13 Favourite Experiences in Indonesia

Bali – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

My relationship with Bali really is an odd one as, at the time, I was kind of mega frustrated with how much I wasn’t enjoying it when all I’d heard were good things about the little island.

However, so many travellers absolutely adore Bali and my opinion of it really isn’t gospel so I would still always encourage you to decide for yourself.

We spent almost two full months in Indonesia as we extended our visas (if you’re from the UK, you’re only entitled to spend 30 days in Indonesia unless you extend). I’ve written a comprehensive guide on how to extend your visa in Indonesia here .

Top things to see/do in Bali:

• Ubud Monkey Forest – book a guided tour here
• Tegallalang Rice Terraces
• Mount Batur
• Lempuyang Temple (read about what I really think of it here!)
• Agro Santi Coffee Plantation

Read more: Why I Didn’t Love Bali As Much As I Thought I Would

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida was possibly my favourite island in Indonesia. It was much quieter than Bali or Gili T (although this might not always be the case) and it’s an absolutely stunning place.

The island is pretty easy to get around as it’s not huge and many travellers hire scooters to get around. However, we decided against hiring a scooter as the roads aren’t exactly in the best shape and we didn’t feel comfortable riding a scooter at the time so we hired a private driver to take us around on the day trips instead.

Top things to see/do in Nusa Penida:

• Diamond Beach (absolutely stunning beach)
• Kelingking Beach
• Angel’s Billabong
• Thousand Islands Viewpoint
• Broken Beach

Read more: Nusa Penida Day Tour – Diamond Beach, Kelingking Beach & More!

Gili Islands

The Gili Islands comprise of Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno and all three islands are just a short (albeit often very rocky) boat ride from Bali.

We spent 10 days in Gili T and then did a brief boat trip that took us to Gili Meno as part of a snorkelling trip. There aren’t an awful lot of things to do on the islands and you definitely don’t need to spend 10 days on Gili T in order to see everything; we only spent that much time so that we could relax for days on end.

Top things to see/do in Gili Islands:

• Snorkelling
• Scuba diving
• Bar Crawls with the Irish Bar
• Bingo Night at Lava
• Jiggy Boat party

Read more: An Epic 10-Day Travel Itinerary for Gili Trawangan

Philippines – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Length of stay : 1 month

More guides to the Philippines here!

Where to go on a Southeast Asia backpacking route in the Philippines

We spent pretty much one full month in the Philippines and I think that’s a good amount of time to see a fair bit of the expansive country.

As the Philippines is so huge and is home to more than 7000 islands, it can be hard to narrow it down to just a few places to spend time in while you’re there. While we did visit numerous islands/cities during our time there, we still barely even scratched the surface and I’d definitely like to go back one day.

Here’s some inspiration for the top places to visit in the Philippines during your Southeast Asia backpacking route.

Read more: 1 Month Philippines Itinerary: Coron, El Nido, Cebu & More!

Manila is the capital city of the Philippines and it’s the place that we flew into from Bali. It’s also one of the worst places I’ve ever been and even though we were only there for around 6 hours, it’s a place that I never want to have to return to.

Many travellers we met agreed with us and said they hated Manila too, so if you can, I’d recommend just passing through there if you have to fly in or out of Manila.

After the brief 6 hours in Manila, we took the overnight ferry to Coron ; the ferry was an experience to say the least and not necessarily one that I’d particularly love to embark on again.

The little area of Coron itself isn’t really up to much but it is home to some fabulous islands that you can take day trips to see. I’d highly recommend spending at least a day or two in Coron so that you can see the beautiful islands, corals and beaches for yourself.

Top things to see/do in Coron:

• CYC Sand Bar
• Siete Pecados Marine Park
• Calachuchi Beach
• Kayangan Lake
• Hidden Lagoon

Read more: The Ultimate Coron Island Hopping Day Tour Itinerary

El Nido – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary and route

El Nido was a place that I wanted to visit for many years, even before we started travelling and I think it definitely lived up to my expectations.

Again, while it’s not necessarily the most beatific place itself, it’s surrounded by the most incredible islands, ocean and beaches and the day trips you can enjoy from El Nido are unlike anything you’ll have likely experienced before.

There’s also a great backpacking scene in El Nido itself, with plenty of hostels, cheap bars and many affordable places to eat.

Top things to see/do in El Nido:

• Big Lagoon (somewhere I was desperate to see and enjoyed every minute of)
• Small Lagoon
• Seven Commandos Beach
• Shimizu Island
• Miniloc Island
• Nacpan Beach
• Secret Lagoon
• Matinloc Island
• Helicopter Island

Read more: Ultimate El Nido Tour A Island Hopping Day Trip Itinerary

After El Nido, we headed down to Puerto Princesa to catch a flight to Cebu where we spent a couple of days.

Cebu isn’t really somewhere you need to spend a long time in as there aren’t tonnes of things to do, but it is a good place to base yourself for a day or two for getting around the Philippines.

Top things to see/do in Cebu:

• Taoist Temple
• Fort San Pedro
• Cebu Westown Lagoon

Bohol/Panglao

From Cebu City , you can take a short ferry ride to Bohol Island and Panglao . Panglao was actually probably my favourite place in the Philippines; we stayed there for a good few days, at a tiny hostel just 100m from the beach.

Panglao was also the first place that we hired and rode a scooter for the first (and only) time while travelling as everything is pretty spread out across the adjoining islands.

Bohol and Panglao are absolutely stunning places and I’d highly recommend adding them to your Philippine itinerary while you’re backpacking Southeast Asia.

Top things to see/do in Bohol/Panglao:

• Libaong White Beach
• Bohol Chocolate Hills
• Alona Beach
• Bilar Man-made Forest
• Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary

Read more: 5 Things To Do In Panglao/Bohol

Malaysia – backpacking Southeast Asia itinerary

Length of stay : 2-4 weeks

Where to go in Malaysia – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

If you’ve followed me on Instagram since we were travelling, you’ll know just how much I adore Malaysia . In fact, within just a few days of being there, I decided that it was one of the best countries I’d ever been to.

Many people overlook Malaysia when backpacking around Southeast Asia and usually only view Kuala Lumpur as a layover city , but it definitely isn’t; I really think it’s a place that you need to spend some proper time in.

We spent almost 6 weeks in Malaysia in total and split our time between Kuala Lumpur and George Town.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur was the first place that we visited in Malaysia and I absolutely fell head over heels in love with it. While many people brush it off and use it only as a stopover when travelling around Asia and beyond, I personally adored it.

It was never somewhere that crossed my mind to visit, as no one I knew really raved about it, but we spent three fabulous weeks there and we’ve already talked about moving there for a couple of months one day.

From the food (SO good), to the people, to the beautiful architecture and things to see and do, KL is undoubtedly one of my favourite cities in the world.

Top things to see/do in Kuala Lumpur:

• Petronas Towers
• Wilayah Mosque
• Tapak Urban Street Dining
• KL Eco Forest Park
• Jalan Alor Night Market

Read more: 17 Best Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

George Town/Penang

After our incredible experience in Kuala Lumpur, I really didn’t think I could love anywhere in Malaysia as much but George Town proved me wrong yet again and it also turned out to be one of my favourite places we visited while travelling.

It’s the cutest little town, filled with so much incredible food (seriously, the food markets here are to die for ) and stunning street art; George Town is 100% a place that you need to add to your Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary.

Top things to see/do in George Town/Penang:

• Kek Lok Si Temple
• Kapitan Keling Mosque
• The Top at Penang
• Antarabangsa Enterprise
• Penang Hill

Read more: 10 Best Things To Do In George Town, Penang (Malaysia)

Singapore – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Length of stay : 1-2 weeks

It’s no secret that Singapore is incredibly expensive so it’s a place that a lot of travellers avoid when backpacking Southeast Asia, however, it is still possible to visit Singapore on a relatively strict budget.

We actually spent Christmas and New Year in Singapore which definitely wasn’t cheap at all , especially for accommodation, but there are still ways to save money in the famed city.

We found some of the food in Singapore some of the cheapest we ate in Southeast Asia as there are a tonne of Hawker Markets and street food stalls that not many people seem to realise.

My point is, if you really want to see Singapore but you’re worried it’s going to be too expensive, then you just need to come up with more inventive ways to save money while travelling .

On our second visit to Singapore in December 2023, we spent two nights at the YOTEL Orchard Road hotel branch which is one of the best and more affordable accommodation options located right in the heart of Orchard Road!

Top things to see/do in Singapore:

• Gardens by the Bay
• Marina Bay Sands Hotel
• Universal Studios
• Singapore Flyer
• ArtScience Museum
• Clarke Quay
• Merlion Park
• Stay at YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road
• Haji Lane and Arab Street
• Southern Ridges
• Little India

Read more: 25+ Best Things To Do In Singapore

Thailand – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Where to go in Thailand – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Thailand is synonymous with being a backpacking haven for travellers from all over the world, and while many parts of it is great for backpackers, it wasn’t quite as impressive as I was expecting it to be.

Don’t get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed our time in Thailand and it’s an amazing country, but it just wasn’t quite as cheap as everyone told us it would be.

We spent roughly a month travelling around Thailand and during that time we saw and did an awful lot of awesome stuff. Here are some of the top places I’d recommend visiting in Thailand during your Southeast Asia backpacking trip.

Read more: The Ultimate 1 Month Backpacking Thailand Itinerary & Guide

Bangkok – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Bangkok is often cited as the pinnacle mecca of backpacking life in Asia and from the amount of other travellers you’ll inevitably meet there, it’s easier to see why.

However, you’ll soon have to become accustomed to a much quicker pace of life in Bangkok as it’s without a doubt one of the craziest and busiest cities I’ve ever been to. It’s also not quite as affordable as you might think; especially down the world-famous Khao San Road – expect to see a lot of scantily-clad women too!

Top things to see/do in Bangkok:

• Wat Arun Ratchawararam
• Khao San Road
• Muay Thai at Baan Chao Praya Gallery
• Chatuchak Weekend Market 
• Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse rooftop bar
• The Grand Palace
• Wat Anongkharam Worawihan
• Erawan Shrine

Read more: Three Days In Bangkok – What To Do, See & Eat

We actually started our time in Thailand in Phuket as we flew there from Singapore just after New Year’s.

We spent around five days on the island and while I definitely don’t think you need to spend that long there, as we were travelling pretty slowly compared to most other travellers, we didn’t see the harm in being there for a little while.

Phuket is renowned for being quite a rambunctious party island and we definitely experienced that side of things, but it’s also filled with awesome cultural excursions too that you shouldn’t miss out on.

Top things to see/do in Phuket:

• Island hopping day trip to Phi Phi Islands
• Phuket Old Town
• Wat Chalong
• Promthep Cape Viewpoint
• Karon Viewpoint

Read more: Phuket Island Hopping Day Trip To Phi Phi Islands

Koh Lanta was an island that I really wanted to visit after hearing a few fellow travellers rave about it and I have to say, it really is a fab little place.

There aren’t a tonne of things to see and do there, but it is the perfect place to base yourself for a few days if you want to do little else apart from eat, drink, lay on the beach and watch endless beautiful sunsets.

Our little homestay was situated just a 2-minute walk from the beach so we headed there every evening for sundowners and to watch the most magical sunset over the ocean.

Top things to see/do in Koh Lanta:

• Mu Ko Lanta National Park
• Pra-Ae Beach
• Island hopping

Chiang Mai is situated at the very top of Thailand and is another great place for backpackers. We took the overnight bus there from Bangkok which isn’t exactly the most enjoyable journey, but it’s very cheap and pretty easy to embark on.

I really enjoyed Chiang Mai and I think it’s definitely a place you need to have on your Thailand travel itinerary.

Top things to see/do in Chiang Mai:

• Blue Daily Elephant Care Sanctuary
• Wat Chedi Luang
• Wat Phra Singh
• Old City Temples

Read more: Blue Daily Elephant Care Sanctuary Chiang Mai

Kanchanaburi

Famed for being the home of part of the Death Railway and the Bridge on the River Kwai , Kanchanaburi is unfortunately often a place that’s overlooked in Thailand, with most backpackers sticking to places like Bangkok , Phi Phi and Phuket.

However, we spent a couple of days in Kanchanaburi largely just to see the Death Railway and I’m really glad we did because it was an awesome, albeit slightly harrowing experience. We actually rode the train along the railway all the way to Nam Tok where the tourist route ends.

Aside from the River Kwai and numerous bars and restaurants, there’s not much to do in Kanchanaburi itself, unless you take a few day trips. It is remarkably easy to get to and from Bangkok however, so many people just opt to take a day trip there.

Top things to see/do in Kanchanaburi:

• Bridge on the River Kwai and Death Railway
• Erawan National Park (day trip)
• JEATH War Museum
• Tiger Temple

Read more: Death Railway and River Kwai Bridge, Kanchanaburi – Ultimate Guide

Cambodia – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Where to go in Cambodia – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

The next place on our Southeast Asia backpacking route and a place that’s very easily accessible from Thailand was Cambodia.

Cambodia always receives such mixed views and opinions from various travellers; one girl we met claimed it was her favourite place in the entire world, whereas other backpackers have said that it really wasn’t up to much and would happily never go back again.

I think I’m somewhere in the middle. Some places we visited in Cambodia were pretty cool such as the Angkor Wat Temples and a little city called Kampot . Whereas the capital city, Phnom Penh, wasn’t up to much and the southern coastal city of Sihanoukville was undoubtedly The Worst Place On Earth.

I’m always a huge advocate for people forging their own opinions about a place and I would never tell you not to visit anywhere, but I think it’s a good idea to note that Cambodia isn’t the best place in the world, in my opinion, at least.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide To Backpacking Cambodia On A Budget

Siem Reap – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Siem Reap, the home to the world-famous Angkor Wat temples and the city that is often mistaken for the capital city of Cambodia is a place that pretty much every backpacker visits if they’re in the country.

It’s a great little city for backpackers as there are plenty of affordable hostels and cheap eateries and the nightlife is great, especially if you hop on one of the many pub crawls (like we did).

Of course, it’s most famous for Angkor Wat and all the surrounding temples which are definitely worth seeing for yourself as they’re so unbelievably otherworldly.

Top things to see/do in Siem Reap:

• Angkor Thom
• Ta Prohm (my personal favourite temple)
• Bayon Temple
• Pub Street (literally what it sounds like)
• Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Read more: The Ultimate Angkor Wat Guide – Ta Prohm, Ta Keo & More

The capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, was actually pretty anticlimactic and we really didn’t do an awful lot there apart from visiting the incredibly harrowing S21 Prison (Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum) .

Phnom Penh is home to an awful lot of horrific history surrounding Cambodia so it felt like a pretty sad place to be. However, I do think it’s worth spending a few days there, even just to learn more about the happenings at the Killing Fields , S21 and the history of the Khmer Rouge .

Top things to see/do in Phnom Penh:

• Royal Palace
• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
• Killing Fields
• Central Market
• National Museum of Cambodia

Koh Rong/Koh Rong Samloem

If you follow me on Instagram , you may have seen me talk in great depth about the coastal city of Sihanoukville in the south of Cambodia.

Once famed for being the gateway to the Cambodian islands, Sihanoukville is now a city that’s in a perpetual state of construction since Chinese investors overtook it and built hotels and casinos at an impressive speed. The entire city is now a derelict construction zone and quite frankly, it’s not an enjoyable place to be. In fact, I’ve often cited it as The Worst Place On Earth.

However , being avidly curious travellers (and because I had to travel there for a company I was working with so I could write about it), Matt and I headed to Sihanoukville for two nights before heading on to Koh Rong Island.

I’ve written more about Sihanoukville in my Cambodia itinerary post and I would seriously advise you to undertake your own research on the city to determine whether you think it’s worth visiting, just to get to the islands.

If you do decide to make your way there, check out a few of the top things to see and do on Koh Rong/Samloem.

Top things to see/do in Koh Rong:

• Koh Toch Beach
• Sok San Beach
• Royal Beach
• Pagoda Beach
• Koh Rong Samloem Lighthouse

Aside from seeing all the incredible Angkor Wat temples in Siem Reap, I think Kampot was my favourite place in Cambodia and it’s a place that I’d encourage you to add to your Southeast Asia backpacking route, largely just for the abundance of awesome places to eat that you’ll find in Kampot .

We ate so well while staying in Kampot and there are dozens of restaurants, cafes and bars in this tiny little city. It didn’t feel too touristy at all, but I loved that it did still cater to tourists in terms of food, bars and the fact that the locals spoke pretty good English.

Kampot isn’t exactly teeming with exciting activities or excursions, but it’s a lovely little place to spend a couple of days just walking around, eating as much yummy food as possible and experiencing some of the local culture.

Top things to see/do in Kampot:

• Eat lots of food
• Salt Fields
• Watch the sunset on the river
• Durian Roundabout
• Preah Monivong Bokor National Park

Read more: The Best Places To Eat In Kampot, Cambodia

Vietnam – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Where to go in Vietnam – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

The final country on our Southeast Asia backpacking route and a place that I would recommend to everyone is Vietnam .

We originally planned to spend a full month in Vietnam so before we even travelled there, we extended our visa from 14 days to 30 days (you have to do this online before you travel to Vietnam). However, due to the bloody awful COVID-19 pandemic, we had to cut our travels short and fly home much sooner than we’d intended.

Anyway , we still spent a good few weeks exploring Vietnam and we travelled pretty much the full length of the country; from Ho Chi Minh City, all the way up to Hanoi, with multiple stops in various cities in between.

I really loved Vietnam and I’m excited to head back hopefully one day soon to finish off the things that we missed out on.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City was the first place we visited in Vietnam as we took the bus all the way from Phnom Penh in Cambodia to HCMC.

We were there for a full week and as we were there over Matt’s birthday, we splashed out somewhat on a slightly fancier Airbnb apartment that provided us with the perfect base for our time in Ho Chi Minh.

HCMC is a fab place in Vietnam and I would 100% recommend adding it to your 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary.

Top things to see/do in Ho Chi Minh:

• Cu Chi Tunnels
• Cafe Apartment Block
• Tan Dinh Church
• Bitexco Financial Tower
• Ben Thanh Market
• Bui Vien Street
• War Remnants Museum

Read more: 3 Days In Ho Chi Minh Itinerary – Best Things To See & Do In Ho Chi Minh

After Ho Chi Minh, we headed to Da Lat which is a cute little town in the mountains.

There are lots of great day trips to enjoy from Da Lat, and we created some of my favourite Vietnam memories there.

Top things to see/do in Da Lat:

• Datanla Waterfall
• Datanla rollercoaster
• Hành Trình Trên Cao High Ropes
• Crazy House

Read more: Top Five Fun Things To Do In Da Lat, Vietnam

Nha Trang was probably my least favourite place in Vietnam. It was a nice enough place but it was absolutely overcome with tourists, particularly Russian tourists and even though we were there just as the COVID-19 pandemic was starting to outbreak, it was still very busy everywhere.

On the plus side, there are lots of great places to eat in Nha Trang, in order to accommodate the many tourists so you won’t struggle to find a plethora of amazing restaurants!

Top things to see/do in Nha Trang:

• Long Son Pagoda
• Ponagar Tower
• Vinpearl Water Park

Hoi An – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Hoi An, on the other hand, is an absolutely fab place and it’s definitely somewhere you should have on your 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary!

While there’s not a crazy amount of “big” activities to do in the city itself, it’s a truly beautiful place to spend a few days. Hoi An is famed for its abundance of lights and lanterns that make the city come magically alive at night.

Top things to see/do in Hoi An:

• Japanese Covered Bridge
• Hoi An Night Market
• Ancient Town

Read more: Hoi An Photo Diary – 20+ Photos To Inspire Your Trip To Vietnam

Da Nang was the last proper place we explored before we had to head straight to Hanoi to catch our flight home back to the UK.

Da Nang is such an incredible place with lots to see and do and it’s definitely somewhere that I’d go back to again.

From the world-famous Golden Hands Bridge to the Sun World theme park, to the beautiful beaches, Da Nang is somewhere you need to include in your Southeast Asia itinerary.

Top things to see/do in Da Nang:

• Golden Hands Bridge
• Sun World at Ba Na Hills
• Marble Mountains
• Dragon Bridge
• My Son cultural heritage site

Hanoi – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

The last proper place we “visited” in Vietnam and consequently the last place we were before our world trip came to an abrupt end, Hanoi is somewhere that I was longing to visit for a long time and it was such a shame that we weren’t able to stay there very long.

Unfortunately, we only managed to stay in Hanoi for 12 hours before we had to catch a flight home so we literally didn’t do anything there apart from spending 4 hours in McDonald’s…

I’ve still collated a few ideas of the best things to see and do in Hanoi to give you guys inspiration in case you head there yourself.

Top things to see/do in Hanoi:

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Temple of Literature
• Thăng Long Imperial Citadel
• Hoàn Kiếm Lake
• Ta Hien Beer Street
• Tran Quoc Pagoda
• St. Joseph’s Cathedral

And there you have it! A fully comprehensive 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary and backpacking route!

Related posts:

• Backpacking Southeast Asia Ultimate Packing List
• 12 Best Bahn Mi In Hanoi, Vietnam
• The Ultimate Vietnam Backpacking Guide
• A Guide To Backpacking Cambodia On A Budget
• The Ultimate 1 Month Backpacking Thailand Itinerary & Guide
• One Month In The Philippines Ultimate Itinerary

Pin for later – 6 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Which places are on your Southeast Asia backpacking route? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram at @imjustagirl_16 .

Southeast Asia Packing List Essentials – Ultimate Packing Guide For Asia

6 Months Travelling New Zealand, Australia & Asia Itinerary

Things You’ll Know If You’ve Travelled Southeast Asia

Wow, this whole trip looks like it was amazing! I didn’t expect it to meet a COVID-19 ending (SUPER sad) but it looks like you had a wonderful 7 months!

Thank you so much!

This looks amazing, and so useful for a good guide! What month you started your 6 months?

Thank you! We arrived in Indonesia in August.

Super useful guide!! Thanks Chloe. I’d also suggest a good tip on money in SE Asia. Atms are a good way of getting cash and you can use apps like ATM Fee Saver – it helps finding the fee-free and lower fee ATMs in the region along with withdrawal limits for foreign card holders. worth adding to your list of tricks!

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Where to Travel in Southeast Asia for 3 Months

If you’ve only got three months, this Southeast Asia itinerary will take you through the region’s best bits—both the highlights and the hidden gems.

When you tell your friends you’re leaving to “backpack Southeast Asia,” they’ll probably envision you in harem pants, partying with fire dancers on Thai beaches.

Your parents probably think you’re off to volunteer caring for elephants or teaching Cambodian kids English. And you’re probably getting excited to break some serious boundaries—like summiting mountains, eating scorpions in night markets and practicing your meditation from temples.

The truth is that it’ll probably be an amalgamation of it all—and Southeast Asia is a sunny, culturally diverse and cheap ( like really cheap ) place to do it all.

When I say Southeast Asia, I’m talking specifically about Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. While there are other plenty of other countries in the region, there are time constraints when traveling Asia for just three months.

Meanwhile, in the “core four,” and with this Southeast Asia itinerary, you can travel freely without having to book tickets in advance.

Southeast Asia is often touted as a backpacker’s haven, likely because you and other travelers are spoiled for choice when it comes to hostels. There are also clearly defined routes that run throughout the region, and most backpackers in the area are heading in the same general direction, which means making travel buddies in those hostels is easy.

There is no need for flights because day and night buses between all of these countries are simple and cheap, and hitchhiking is even common due to the population of backpackers.

And, for the more experienced backpacker who feels comfortable venturing off the beaten path, there’s more to Southeast Asia than the standard route. It’s stupidly simple to rent a motorbike for days on end and explore these countries without seeing others for days.

If you’ve only got three months, this itinerary will take you through the best bits and hidden gems.

Thailand: One Month

Thailand should be your first stop since Bangkok’s airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport, is the largest hub in and out of Southeast Asia. Most international flights will fly into there. More than 35 million people visited Thailand in 2017, which means that the country caters to tourists, and you’ll have an easier time navigating the different cities and finding accommodation in each place.

If you have never been to Asia before, Bangkok will induce serious culture shock, but embrace it; you’re not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy.

Your one month in Thailand is going to be all about visiting temple ruins, trekking through the jungles and consuming fresh, fragrant foods. You will see, hear, smell and taste things you’ve never experienced before and you will be immersed in a new and fascinating culture. Say yes to everything (except maybe “Ping Pong” shows… just trust me).

Day 1-3: Bangkok

As you travel from the airport into city (I recommend the tram) you’ll be hit with an explosion of color and sound. Multi-colored taxis honk as they swerve across five-lane highways, while motorcycles transporting entire families weave through the traffic. It’s chaos, and it’s a little overwhelming, but it’s exciting.

I have friends who have planned trips to Thailand and banked on spending a week in Bangkok at the beginning to ‘get their bearings.’ Don’t do this. Bangkok is absolutely incredible, but a week here is too long simply because there are better places to spend your time .

I recommend spending just a few days here exploring. You’ll want to check out the Wat Pho Temple , one of the largest temple complexes in the city known for its 151-foot-tall reclining, gold-leaf Buddha. Shopping in the Chatuchak Market could consume an entire day.

If you’re in the mood to party, spend the night bar hopping in Soi Cowboy , a street made famous by The Hangover that offers live music dive bars, clubs and go-go bars to a crowd of travelers and expatriates alike. One night should also be dedicated to Khao San Road , Bangkok’s most famous party street.

While you’re in Bangkok, it’s worth getting lost in the streets of skyscrapers to check out the hundreds of food stalls selling chicken skewers and scorpions and pla pao erupting with smells that could alone sate an appetite. There are also floating markets during the weekends and tons of biking trails to be discovered.

Day 4-11: East Coast Islands or West Coast Islands

Had your fill of the city? Now, it’s time to head south and hit Thailand’s world-renowned beaches. You can take buses and trains down south, and trains are usually more scenic. Choose either the East Coast ( Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan ) or the West Coast ( Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Phuket ) and island hop.

Just keep in mind that monsoon season will be affecting one side, while the other is sunny. It typically lasts from July to October and typically dominates the southwest—so if you go during those months, you may want to choose the eastern islands instead.

The islands are super simple to hop, as ferries run regularly between them for decent prices. You don’t need to plan or buy tickets in advance either.

On the West Coast, the more famous Ko Phi Phi Leh , an island of the Phi Phi Archipelago in the Krabi Province, was made famous by Leonardo Dicaprio’s The Beach. If that’s not reason to visit, its bath-temperature waters will be begging you to swim.

But also be sure to take a day trip from one of the main islands to Koh Hai or Koh Yao Yai . These islands are far less developed than their neighbors and boast amazing opportunities for cliff jumping, snorkeling, hiking, and swimming.

Meanwhile, the East Coast’s Koh Phangan is home to the world famous Full Moon Party. This is not for everyone. It’s 30,000 people covered in neon paint drinking questionable concoctions from buckets on the beach. But for party-people, this is heaven.

If you’re not interested in the Full Moon Party, there are plenty of smaller parties on the islands, including the Half Moon Party and Lost in Paradise, among regular nightly beach parties with fire dancers.

You should also take the opportunity to get your PADI diving license on Koh Tao . It’s one of the cheapest places on the planet to do it and the diving there is unparalleled. Or, if you’d rather keep on terra firma, trek through the jungle to find the Na Muang Waterfall on Koh Samui .

Day 12-16: Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is well known for its role in World War II. It is the site of the Death Railway, a tragic railroad that was built under Japanese orders to connect Thailand and Burma. The Japanese used prisoners of war and civilian laborers to construct the railway in hellish conditions. Malnourishment, tropical diseases and poor safety on site led to the deaths of over 100,000 people.

Nowadays, you can ride along the Railway from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok and learn about the history of this region for an adventure through time.

While you’re here, take a walk across the bridge over the River Kwai. From the bridge, there are beautiful views of the river and the floating accommodations that line its banks. Other popular activities worth doing include exploring the Erawan National Park , canoeing along the River Kwai, trekking through the jungle and bamboo rafting.

Day 17-22: Chiang Mai

As you meet people along your travels you will hear the same place muttered over and over again: Chiang Mai. It’s up north, but it makes the most sense to start working your way back north since the next country on your list, Laos, will be easier to enter up there.

So let’s start with Chiang Mai, a little city is a universal favorite with travelers and recognized as the digital nomad capital of the world.

In fact, you’ll meet a lot of Westerners in Chiang Mai who visited once years ago and never left. It is the kind of place that sucks you in and captivates you.

There is a lot to see and do in Chiang Mai and, because of its leisurely pace, you won’t want to rush. So, give yourself at least five days here.

Chiang Mai is the hub of adventure activities in Thailand . Here, you will find ziplining, jungle treks ATV riding and a whole lot more. These adventure tours are usually very reasonably priced and include transfers and lunch. In the evenings, head to the night bazaar in the city center and gorge on freshly cooked Thai street food.

For example, you could fly through the treetops and see the Mae Kampong Falls and, if you’re lucky, elusive wild gibbons. Or you could spend an entire day trekking up Doi Inthanon , Thailand’s tallest mountain.

Important Heads Up

If you want to spend time with elephants in Chiang Mai then do your research. While there are some legitimate elephant sanctuaries around, there are also a lot of sham sanctuaries (learn more about that here ). Elephant Nature Park is the only rescue center that I can comfortably recommend, as it comes highly recommended by experts for its ethics and I’ve been there myself.

The same thing goes for Tiger sanctuaries. You might have seen people on Instagram posing with cuddly, subdued tigers. The tigers look this way because they have been drugged. Err on the side of caution and give the tigers a miss altogether if you don’t want to contribute to animal abuse.

Day 21-26: Pai

Pai is a quiet town in northern Thailand, which can be used as a base for trekking adventures. Northern Thailand is hill country covered with lush green grass and rice paddies. From Pai, you can take a day trip to the Mae Yen or Huay Chang Waterfalls or you can go for something more hardcore like a five-day trek through the entire region .

In the Huay Nam Dang National Park , Soppong and Mae Hong Son also have plenty of hiking routes to explore. If you have the stamina, there are multi-day treks in these areas, some of which include bamboo or white water rafting. While you’re trekking, you’ll have the chance to drop in to hill-tribe villages, small communes of Thais who still maintain a traditional way of living. Think straw huts and tribal outfits.

Day 27-30: Chiang Rai

As you make your way to Laos, make a brief stop in Chiang Rai It’s home to the exceptionally beautiful White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), an all-white, spiky building that looks like its made of icicles. It’s also surrounded by outstanding natural beauty—think tea plantations and rivers. Grab a bike and cycle around the area to get a taste for what life is like in this northern region.

To immerse yourself fully in nature, there is a treetop walk that stretches through the sublime Mae Fah Luang Gardens in Doi Tung. You can share a taxi with others for about an hour ride from Chiang Rai, and you’ll find signs for the walk not far into the gardens. From the walk’s aerial vantage point, there are spectacular views of the gardens along with a mild adrenaline rush from being suspended 100 feet in the air.

When you’ve walked the whole route, come down and enjoy the gardens from ground level. Entrance to the garden and the treetop walk combined comes to around $7.

Laos: Two Weeks

From Thailand, Laos is just a hop, skip and a really long boat ride across the border. If you thought you had gotten used to Southeast Asia after a month in Thailand, think again. Laos is a whole new ball game and, while it might only be next door, you are still going to experience some culture shock when you arrive.

One thing you should know about Laos is that there are no trains. You will have to get around by bus, which would be fine, were the roads in Laos a little… better developed. It’s all part of the adventure and being jolted around in a bus for a few hours is a small price to pay to experience Laos.

To get from Thailand to Laos, you either need to sit on a boat for two days or in a minivan for 14 hours. Neither is ideal, but both will leave you with a handful of interesting stories.

Day 31-33: Vientiane

Compared to Bangkok, Vientiane is child’s play. It is quiet, easy-going and small. Despite the fact that it’s the capital, you really won’t need long here to cover the bulk of the city’s attractions. Once you’ve got your culture fix at the Museum of Lao Art, the Lao National Museum and the Wat Simuang Temple , head out to Vientiane’s outskirts for some nature.

Xieng Khuan , a meadow filled with Buddha statues,is a popular day trip from Vientiane. Otherwise, the Ang Nam Ngum Reservoir is an idyllic spot for camping, hiking and paddling around in boats. That’s the capital city covered.

Day 34-36: Vang Vieng

From Vientiane, head north in the direction of Vang Vieng. This once notorious backpacker hub is now a lot more chilled since tubing has been banned . The town is a ghost of its former self—that’s exactly why you should visit.

Nowadays, there are no more Chads chugging beers and wearing lurid vests. It’s peaceful, beautiful and tubing is still on the cards—it’s just way calmer than it used to be. Enjoy a beer as you float along the river and soak up the stunning views of the jungle around you.

While you are in Vang Vieng you should go hot air ballooning (the photo above is all the convincing you ought to need). Also check out the Blue Lagoon and Cave . The water that feeds into this lagoon comes from the mountains and is a beautiful turquoise color. There are swings that hang from the trees over the lagoon.

Don’t forget to take a walk around the cave, too! All of these sites will be easy to visit by motorbike on your own or by setting up tours at your hostel or with travel companies in the center city.

Day 37-40: Luang Prabang

Deservedly on the UNESCO World Heritage list, Luang Prabang is a charming city in the northern part of Laos. A lot of people are tempted to miss out Luang Prabang because it is too far North. Don’t miss it out. It may well turn out to be your favorite place in Southeast Asia.

The number one sight in Luang Prabang is the stunning  Kuang Si Waterfalls . You can swim at the top of these cascading falls that tumble into more tiered pools of crystal clear water. It’s best enjoyed visiting on your own, as opposed to going with a tour that’ll rush you through it. Consider renting a motorbike because it’s a relatively easy drive.

If you still have energy to expend after the waterfalls, you might want to climb the 355 steps to the top of Mount Phousi . OK, it’s not exactly a mountain, but the views from the top are insane. You’ll see the mighty Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers that carve through the vivid green scenery and the houses and huts that pepper the landscape.

Day 41-44: Phongsali

In the mountains of northern Laos sits Phongsali, the capital of Laos’ northernmost province. Although the town itself is reasonably large, you won’t find many other travelers here. If you were looking to get off the beaten path, this is the place to do it. By way of stimulation, there’s not a whole lot going on in Phongsali. But, that’s not why you came.

You come to Phongsali to breathe in the fresh mountain air, look at the stars at night and fall asleep to the cries of nature. And, above all, you come to Phongsali to trek. Set out on foot and explore the gorgeous scenery that flanks the town on all sides. Delve deep into the wilderness and seek out some of the secret hill-tribe villages.

BONUS: 4,000 Islands

If you happen to have more time in Laos because you opted to skip one of the above or you’d spent less time than you anticipated in one of them, you should check out the 4,000 Islands. You can catch an overnight bus to the 4,000 Islands from most major cities like Vientiane or Vang Vieng.

The overnight buses will take you to a town called Pakse, where you’ll have to catch another tourist bus to the port to the islands in Ban Nakasong. It’s about a three-hour journey. Once you’re there, you can decide between Don Det or Don Khong , connected via a bridge.

I recommend checking out both Don Det and Don Khong if you have the time. Don Det offers higher-end guesthouses and attracts an older crowd. But it boasts the beautifully cascading Liphi Waterfalls , where you can spot fresh-water dolphins.

Don Khong is the biggest of the 4,000 islands and is a sleepy hippie haven peppered with hostels and inexpensive guesthouses. It has tons of riverfront bars and restaurants, too.

Vietnam: Three Weeks

Just when you thought you’d adjusted to the lazy pace of Laos, it’s time to shake things up again. Welcome to Vietnam. Despite still bearing the visible scars of its conflict with the US, Vietnam is a thriving country with modern cities.

I’ll admit, one thing that plagued me before I touched down in Vietnam was how the Vietnamese would treat me given the fact that I’m American. Honestly, I had no problems.

The older generation occasionally gave me disapproving looks but, as a whole, people were super friendly—especially young people. Just try not to be too American while you’re there , if you get what I mean.

Vietnam is the perfect mixture of urban and rural, and it’s teeming with man-made and natural beauty. There’s a lot to see in this country and, in three weeks, you’ll barely scratch the surface. But, that’s all the more reason to go back someday.

Day 45-47: Sapa

Your first stop on your journey through this beautiful and historically fascinating country will be Sapa. It will also, most likely, be your most beautiful stop. But, be aware that the climate in Sapa is a lot cooler than what you’ve experienced so far due to the altitude. Wrap up warm and bring some waterproofs.

As you emerge from the fog that often blankets Sapa, the world will suddenly be tinged with green. Terraced rice paddies sit one on top of the other, verdant and pristine. This is what happens when people work in tandem with Mother Nature. Spend your time here trekking through hill-tribe villages and dosing up on fresh, clean air.

Day 48-51: Hanoi

Home to over four million motorcycles, Hanoi thrums with energy and simply crossing the road is an adventure in itself. It’s Vietnam’s capital city and is, in itself, a historical relic.

Yet, while the streets are chaotic, the parks and plaza are oddly serene. French style architecture can be found throughout the city, as well as bakeries selling French pastries—remnants from their colonial rule.

Take it slow in Hanoi. Hire a bike and cycle around the Hoan Kiem Lake, or just walk if you don’t trust yourself on two wheels near a body of water. Cross the bridge that leads to the middle of the lake and visit the temple there. I also recommend paying your respects at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, an impressive building fit for such a respected military leader.

Day 52-53: Halong Bay

Pretty much everyone who goes to Vietnam goes on a cruise of Halong Bay. While I usually advocate avoiding places heaving with tourists, Halong Bay is an exception.

Boat tours go out in the bay for days at a time, laden with adventurers who want to admire the pinnacles up close. If somehow you haven’t already seen photos of Halong Bay, it consists of dozens of jagged green islands that plunge up out of the water. Each island has sheer walls densely covered with vegetation and the whole place has a prehistoric feel to it.

There’s not much to do here other than sitting on a boat and enjoy yourself. You can sign up with Halong Bay tours through your hostel, which I recommend over sometimes dodgy and overpriced tour companies in the city.

Day 54-56: Hoi An

Head a little further south and you’ll hit Hoi An. Most people will take the train to Danang and a cab from there, but there are also minivans that pass through the Hai Van Tunnel. This is the longest tunnel in Southeast Asia, stretching a staggering four miles.

Once you arrive in Hoi An, you are likely to be approached straight away by someone trying to sell you custom-made clothes. Hoi An is the tailoring capital of Vietnam and, if you were looking to get a bespoke suit or dress made for a fraction of what you would pay back home, you need look no further.

Strolling through Hoi An, you’ll encounter the Japanese Bridge , the Fukian Assembly Hall and lots of beautiful, old buildings. I recommend hiring a bike for a couple of dollars and cycling through the city and out into the rice paddies. Again, motorbikes are easy to rent here and the freedom is worth the extra money for a few days.

Day 57-60: Nha Trang

Nha Trang is the most popular beach spot in Vietnam. Given that you haven’t been on the beach since the Thai Islands over a month ago, you should treat yourself to a bit of sea and sand here. A few days is all you need to check out the highlights and top up on your tan before you carry on your journey through Vietnam.

You’ll notice a lot of dive shops all over Nha Trang. The diving here is excellent and the prices are reasonable. Whether you’re a qualified Dive Master or have never so much as seen an oxygen tank before, you should spend a morning diving here.

Now, this is a bit of a guilty pleasure but, after months of temples and cultures, it is certainly justified. In Nha Trang you will find Vinpearl , one of Southeast Asia’s premier theme parks. Sitting on its own little island, the park has a safari, water park, golf resort, spa and just about anything else you could think of.

Theme parks may not be the most culturally enlightening experience, but whoever said travel had to be all about culture? This is guaranteed to be a day of seriously good fun.

Day 61-62: Mui Ne

Mui Ne is the driest place in Southeast Asia. Although the region is just four hours by train from Ho Chi Minh City, it feels like you’ve just been transported out to the Sahara. You only need a day here to experience it; it really is just sand dunes as far as the eye can see.

Visiting Mui Ne is worth it though. Get up at the crack of dawn and watch the sunrise over the dunes. Then rev up a quad bike and prepare for action. Racing around these dunes is a cool experience that will get the adrenaline pumping before breakfast.

Day 63-66: Ho Chi Minh City

Finally, you’ve made it right down to the bottom of Vietnam, to the commercial hub of the country: Ho Chi Minh City. You might be more familiar with the city’s previous name, Saigon. During the Vietnam War, this city played a pivotal role in the military developments and eventually fell to the communists, ending the war entirely.

The city is an interesting mixture of old and new, with modern business centers sitting side by side with colonial churches. The post office in downtown Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best-preserved examples of colonial architecture.

To get a taste of HCMC’s history, check out the War Remnants Museum . Getting to see the Vietnamese perspective of that notorious war is both interesting and valuable.

When you’re ready for adventure, leave the city and travel to the Mekong Delta for a day. Here, you can float along the river, explore floating markets and even try your hand at fishing.

Cambodia: Three Weeks

Your final country on your journey through Southeast Asia is Cambodia. Yet again, you’re going to need to readjust to a completely different culture. Vietnam and Cambodia might be neighbors, but they are startlingly different.

Cambodia moves at a slower pace to its neighbors and it is noticeably less developed. Just like in Laos, your primary modes of transport here are going to be buses, minivans and, this time, tuk-tuks. But, don’t worry, everywhere in Cambodia is well connected and, given that it is such a compact country, it’s reasonably easy to pack a lot into three weeks.

Day 67-70: Phnom Penh

For a capital city, Phnom Penh will seem exceptionally quiet. There are no crowded freeways or mega-malls with glitzy billboards like in Bangkok. Instead, you’ll find dirt roads laden with street vendors and tuk-tuks, and rickety shacks filled with local snacks (and Oreos—you can find Oreos everywhere).

Phnom Penh has a turbulent past. The year 1979 marked the end of Pol Pot’s bloody dictatorship that ordered a systematic genocide of the Khmer people. The regime slaughtered an estimated three million people.

The Tuol Sleng Killing Fields Museum and the Killing Fields are two important sites for those wishing to understand more about Pol Pot’s regime.

Tuol Sleng , a former high school turned concentration camp, is still in the exact state it was when the Vietnamese liberated Cambodia. It is a macabre and harrowing place to visit, but it’s worth the trip to understand just how brutal Cambodia’s dictatorship was.

Even if you’re not a history buff, the genocide was relatively recent and most Cambodians living today have lost family and friends during it. Understanding what happened will help you to understand the country and its people living today, too.

Day 71-74: Kampot

Kampot is where people come to kick back and relax. But, there are still activities on offer if you’ve got itchy feet. Or hire a kayak for the day and paddle through the mangroves and tributaries of the Kampot River.

As you move along the water, you’ll catch a glimpse of life on the banks of the river. For the rural villages that flank that waterway, the Kampot River is a lifeblood around which they have built their lifestyle. Then simply stroll or cycle through the town and along the edge of the water. Nothing moves fast here so neither should you.

Day 75-80: Sihanoukville & Koh Rong

Time for some more beach—and this time it will be even cheaper than anything you’ve experienced before. In Sihanoukville you can live like royalty for less than $20 each day. Cambodia might not have much of a coastline, but what it does have will blow you away.

Not keen on lying on the beach all day? Watersports are the main attraction for thrill-seekers in this part of the country. Diving, windsurfing and kitesurfing are all on the menu here. Fortunately, the water there is delightfully warm so you don’t need to squeeze yourself into a wetsuit if you don’t want to.

While here, be sure to spend at least a few days on the island of Koh Rong . Far less developed than the Thai islands, Koh Rong still has an element of wild about it. Sure, there are bars and resorts, but there are also patches of untouched natural beauty and utter tranquility.

Day 81-83: Battambang

Also known as Cambodia’s rice bowl, Battambang is a photographer’s mecca. That is, if you go to the right places. Less than 7.5 miles out of town is Phnom Sampeau , a large hill with a temple on top. The temple itself is nothing to write home about. But turn 180 degrees and there are magnificent views of the rice fields. They’re green as far as the eye can see.

Phnom Sampeau is also home to more sobering sites, including the Killing Caves . Just as the name suggests, these caves saw the deaths of thousands of regime dissenters during Pol Pot’s rule. Not for the faint-hearted, the caves display the skulls of hundreds of victims who’d lost their lives here.

If the Killing Caves are too chilling to experience, the nearby Bat Cave should be a more light-hearted experience. In the evening, hundreds of bats fly from the caves in what is quite an astonishing natural spectacle. Once they are all out of the cave, you are free to go in and explore.

Day 84-86: Tonle Sap Lake

The Tonle Sap Lake is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. It’s depended on by over a million Cambodians. In fact, it’s the lifeline for some Cambodians, who bathe in, use it as a bathroom, illegally fish in it, wash their dishes and clothes in it, and even drink from it. At the level of poverty that hits Tonle Sap Lake.

There are tours that’ll allow you to hop in a canoe and float through the stilted villages that sit on top of the water (read about my experience doing just that here ), but I recommend only visiting to educate yourself —don’t contribute to poverty tourism in Asia.

Of course, part of the adventure is to learn about how other people live. But remember: These people’s home are essentially on display for tourists who travel to Cambodia, an incredible luxury that many of them will never be afforded.

Day 87-90: Siem Reap

Wow. After three months of adventure in Southeast Asia you have finally come to your last stop—and, what a way to end the trip. Siem Reap is home to, among other things , the most famous collection of ruins in Asia, and possibly the world: Angkor Wat .

The Cambodians built it somewhere between A.D. 1113 and 1150, and about two million people visit to revel in its storied history each year.

There’s a lot to learn about this temple, dubbed the most spiritual temple in the world. Originally a Hindu temple, the Cambodian’s dedicated this one to the god Vishnu, and they added Buddha effigies in the 14th century.

People also generally accept that Angkor Wat was a funerary temple for King Suryavarman II, who built it to mark the capital of the Khmer Empire as his state temple and eventual mausoleum.

Some people just spend a day at Angkor Wat. I wholeheartedly advise you to dedicate at least two days to it though. You need it to really understand its magnitude.

If you visit for just the sunset around 5 p.m., you can get in for free. Then use your ticket again for the following day. But you must get your ticket from an office a short drive away from the temple itself. Make sure you buy your ticket before heading to the temple.

While sunset is gorgeous, sunrise at Angkor Wat is famous for a reason. On day one, get up while it’s still dark and make your way to the temple complex. Get there in time to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat and the lily lake. It’s a phenomenal sight

Spend the rest of the day and the following day exploring the dozens of temples.

Cambodian Temples to Visit

• Bayon : Fifty-four gigantic stone faces with creepy smiles fill the Khmer temple. Architects built it in the late 12th or early 13th century. It was the official state temple of the Mahayana Buddhist King Jayavarman VII.
• Ta Phrom : Architects built it in the Bayon style in the late 12th and early 13th century. Today, thick tree roots cover it, and it was the set of the film, Tomb Raider.
• Banteay Srei : Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva is this 10th-century temple. Intricate, beautiful carvings decorate it.
• Preah Khan : Architects built this one in the 12th century for King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. Today’s it’s one of the largest and least-restored temples.

And that concludes your journey through Southeast Asia. You’ll make your way back to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok and fly home from there. As the international hub of Southeast Asia, this is where you’ll find the cheapest flights.

And while this itinerary is detailed, remember that it should only be used as a guideline. Part of the beauty of backpacking through Southeast Asia is having the freedom to be spontaneous.

If you want to take a detour via a temple you’ve heard about, do it. If a national park keeps getting recommended to you by other travelers, see it!

After all, that’s what adventure is all about.

Let us know in the comments what you’re most excited about!

Southeast Asia Itinerary FAQs

How long do you need to travel southeast asia.

You can take anywhere from a week to several months to travel Southeast Asia.

How much should I budget for 4 weeks in Southeast Asia?

You should be able to spend 4 weeks in Southeast Asia for around $1500.

What is the cheapest country in Southeast Asia?

Thailand is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia.

Is Southeast Asia cheaper than Mexico?

Southeast Asia is cheaper than Mexico overall. However, some cities (like Singapore) will be more expensive.

What is the most underrated country in Southeast Asia?

Cambodia is one of the most underrated countries in Southeast Asia.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Wow, this itinerary is so comprehensive! Is it based on your own trip? I wish I had done something like this! I mean backpacking Southeast Asia for 3 months 🙂 But at least I saw parts of Thailand and Cambodia. The other 2 are still on my to-go list.

Hi Jeremy, Jules Verne wrote “Around the World in 80 Days” and you wrote in 90 Days; hahaha! However, your post was really informative and I just loved to read. Maybe I’ll try once to discover the world in 90 days!

I have been to Vietnam, I feel this place is wonderful to come back again. how to make slime

So many great places to visit in SEA, and they each have their own unique culture.

I also like to take better advantage of each place I go, and one thing I’ve been trying to do is really policing myself to take better care of my finances and to be more selective in every place I decide to visit and get to know in a city or country. Because since we are long-term travelers it is easy to end up having unnecessary expenses and this post helped me to reflect on the importance of this. Thanks for sharing your experience the Asian region with us Jeremy 🙂

Wow what a cool place .. I even gave it a try to take a tour in this region. I have been looking for places like this here in the Country that I am going through but I have not yet found. Thanks for the tip. I’ll take a closer look at who knows the Asian places too.

Amazing itinerary!! I know its hard to give an accurate answer but could you give an estimated budget for this trip? Excluding international flights of course! Thanks in advance…

Southeast Asia can definitely be done for $1k/mo if you’re on a budget. It all depends on the types of places you stay and where you eat. Hostels and street food vendors are your best friends!

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My 4 Month South East Asia Solo Backpacking Itinerary

• Post author: Kieren
• Post last modified: February 14, 2024
• Post category: South East Asia

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Quit your job and go travelling. It’s the cliche right? Well I did it and the 4 months I spent travelling around South East Asia were some of the best in my life. It was my first big trip as a solo traveller and after 4 months travelling alone I wonder how the heck I ever travelled with other people before.

Of course, travelling solo never really means travelling alone. I met incredible people, travellers and locals, who made the journey extra special. There were relatively few language barriers and the infrastructure for backpacking in South East Asia (hostels, buses and the like) made it super easy to travel.

With so many incredible places to choose from, deciding upon a travel route is a little daunting at first, but just seems to develop naturally as you move around. Nevertheless, I’ll provide some inspiration by sharing my own South East Asia 4 month itinerary (17½ weeks to be precise).

What is the Banana Pancake Trail?

Northern thailand [2-3 weeks], laos [3-4 weeks], cambodia [3 weeks], vietnam [4 weeks], south of thailand [2 weeks], malaysia + singapore [2-3 weeks], got longer in south east asia, related questions.

Backpacking routes through the region have been dubbed the ‘ Banana Pancake Trail ‘, a reference to the abundance of banana pancakes catering to us westerners. (If you’re a fellow pancake lover reading this, don’t get your hopes up – you’ll soon be returning to the Asian cuisine.)

My itinerary is a very typical journey along the Banana Pancake Trail. I began by heading north from Bangkok, working my way through Northern Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. From Hanoi, I flew back to Bangkok, ready to begin the second leg of my journey, this time heading south until I reached Singapore.

Average spend in Northern Thailand: £35/day

Conveniently in the centre of South East Asia, Bangkok provides a great central hub and starting point for your journey. The best part about starting your adventure here is that you’ll meet many like minded travellers doing the same thing. I continued to meet up with friends I had made in Bangkok throughout my trip and even travelled with some of them for a few weeks.

There’s plenty to keep you occupied in this busy capital city, from the temples that line the river to the infamous Koh San Road where backpackers have partied the night away for decades. Check out some of the streets surrounding Koh San Road which have a better atmosphere these days.

Where to stay in Bangkok? I can highly recommend Nap Park hostel , especially for solo travellers. Read my full list of hostel recommendations for Bangkok .

Things to do in Bangkok

• Party on Koh San Road
• Chatuchak weekend market
• Wat Pho and the Grand Palace
• Floating markets
• Day trip to the dragon temple ( Wat Sam Phran )

2. Chiang Mai

With a less traffic jams and more scenery, Chiang Mai is known as Thailand’s ‘Rose of the North’. The central area of the city is surrounded by historic walls and a moat that date back to the city’s origins. Inside the walls lie a trove of temples, massage parlours, bars and restaurants making it the backpacker and expat haven it is today.

Things to do in Chiang Mai

• Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary such as Elephantland
• Grand Canyon water park
• Visit Wat Doi Suthep
• See a Muay Thai flight
• Trekking with a hill tribe

Where to stay in Chiang Mai? I’ve compiled a list of the best

hostels for your stay .

About 3 hours drive from Chiang Mai (a twisty journey to say the least), you’ll find the hippy paradise of Pai. A swathe of beautiful nature can be found in the surrounding areas, from stunning mountain backdrops, lush green paddy fields, waterfalls, caves, hot springs and more.

TIP : The region is best explored on a scooter or motorbike. If you can’t yet ride one then now is the best time to learn as it will benefit your entire trip, I’m speaking from experience. The quiet open roads around the area make it the perfect place to practice and most of the rental shops will offer a short lesson to newbies.

Pai also has a buzzing nightlife, from the party atmosphere of the towns main club, Don’t Cry, to the hippie vibes and fire shows at Paradise bar. Many backpackers visit Pai for a few days and have such a great time that they stay for weeks, it’s become known as getting ‘ stuck in the Pai hole ‘, hopefully it won’t happen to you.

Things to do in Pai:

• Pai Grand Canyon
• Bamboo Bridge
• Hot springs
• Bamboo raft through Tham Lod caves
• Paradise bar

4. Chiang Rai

Unfortunately Pai is a little out of the way, so getting anywhere else will usually require a journey back to Chiang Mai and maybe even an overnight stay.

The final destination I recommend in Northern Thailand is Chiang Rai. Whilst many backpackers will use it as a quick stop over on the journey to Laos, I recommend spending a few days to explore this laid-back little city.

It’s most popular attraction is undeniably the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) with it’s majestic design making it a hot spot for Instagram photo shoots. Look out for the pop culture references cleverly hidden in the interior artwork.

Things to do in Chiang Rai

• Night food market
• The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
• Full list of things to do in Chiang Rai

Taking the Slow Boat to Laos

From Chiang Rai, the most scenic way to get to Laos is via the 2 day slow boat. With an overnight stop in Pak Beng (an awful place but you won’t be there long), the boat cruises down the Mekong river through glorious landscapes until arriving just outside Luang Prabang.

Don’t overpay for the journey like I did, follow my slow boat tips to get a good deal.

Average spend in Laos: £21/day

5. Luang Prabang

My first stop during my three weeks in Laos was the country’s cultural capital Luang Prabang. Having spent two days together on the slow boat, I had already met dozens of other tourists that would be in the city for the coming days, making it really easy to visit as a solo traveller.

Whilst in Luang Prabang, you need to see Kuang Si Falls, a stunning waterfall with turquoise blue water and triple tiered splash pools. It’s a tourist trap for sure, but well worth seeing.

Things to do in Luang Prabang

• Kuang Si Falls
• See the monks Giving Alms
• Party at the bowling alley

6. Vang Vieng

From the capital of culture to the adventure capital , Vang Vieng. There are now two roads from Luang Praband to Vang Vieng, one that cuts right over the mountains usually taking 3-4 hours in a minibus (this is the one I took and it’s a guaranteed bumpy ride) or the longer route which is usually favoured by larger buses but will take a few hours longer.

Despite being a small town situated amongst jagged limestone cliffs and beautiful rolling green fields, Vang Vieng still has a good nightlife with backpackers drawn to the open sale of marijuana, magic mushrooms and more at the towns bars. Originally famous for it’s crazy river tubing parties, this is now highly regulated but you can still enjoy the daily tubing trip along with other, more adrenaline-fuelled, activities.

Things to do in Vang Vieng:

• River tubing
• Blue Lagoons and caves
• Kayaking, Zipling or Paramotoring (paragliding with an engine)
• Cheapest hot air balloon ride in the world

7. Vientiane

From the adventure capital to the country’s official capital city, Vientiane. With an unusually relaxed pace of life for a capital city, you’ll notice the distinct remnants from French colonization across the city, including French road names, an abundance of French bakeries and the large ‘Patuxai’ monument which is best described as a ‘mini Arc de triomphe’.

Things to do in Vientiane:

• Vientiane night market
• Buddha Park
• Pha That Luang – Laos’ sacred stupa
• COPE visitor centre

8. Pakse and the Bolaven Plateau

From Vientiane, many backpackers on the Banana Pancake Trail will head up to Hanoi, but you’d be foolish to miss out on the beauty of southern Laos. In my opinion, the south was even better than the north.

Travelling from Vientiane to Pakse requires an overnight bus; an experience in itself. If you’re lucky you won’t have to share your bed!

The small city of Pakse is a relatively quiet affair with little going on. But, rent a scooter and you can see some of the best nature on this South East Asia route, especially if you head out to the Champassak highlands along the Bolaven Plateau motorbike loop.

Things to do in Pakse

• Bolaven Plateau Motorbike Loop
• Wat Phou – Temple ruins built in the same style to those at Angkor Wat

At the southern border of Laos lies Si Phan Don, with a literal translation of 4000 islands. Here the Mekong divulges in to many smaller waterways creating an array of islands. Most are very tiny, but three are inhabited, the most popular one being Don Det where you’ll find restaurants and guesthouses in plentiful supply.

You’ll be able to purchase a combination ticket from Pakse to Don Det, including the bus and a return boat journey across to Don Det. There are no ATMs on Don Det so make sure you stock up on cash at the ATM’s you’ll find before getting on the boat.

The best part of this island is watching the sun set across the Mekong from one of the sun set bars.

Things to do in Don Det

• Island tour with waterfall and kayaking
• Watch the sun setting from the sun set bars

Crossing the Laos-Cambodia border

Watch out for corruption at this border. You can expect to pay a few extra dollars for a ‘stamping charge’ which is pretty much non-negotiable. But, I also noticed someone selling Cambodian visas at the Laos border for an inflated price which many tourists were falling for.

Remember – You’ll stamp out of Laos at the Laos exit border, then walk across to the Cambodian entry border to get your visa and stamps for Cambodia. Don’t get your Cambodian visa at the Laos border.

Also, there are no ATMs here so ensure you have enough dollars for the visa and ‘stamping stamp’ before getting on the bus.

Average spend in Cambodia : £37/day

10. Siem Reap

After the relaxed evenings in Laos, you’ll definitely be ready for the upbeat atmosphere in Siem Reap where it’s ‘Pub Street’ is reminiscent of Bangkok’s Koh San Road. With $0.50 draft beer and clubs open until early hours, you’ll have some unforgettable nights here.

Of course, you’ll need to find time to visit Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most famous landmark. A 1 day pass should be fine for most people wanting to get a glimpse at the temple ruins but for temple-nerds, a 3 day pass will allow you to explore a wider variety of Temples within the vast complex.

Things to do in Siem Reap:

• Floating Village

TIP: Don’t visit Sihanoukeville – Some older South East Asia itineraries will advise a visit to Sihanoukeville on the way to Koh Rong, but this city is no longer the glorious destination it once was. Enormous Chinese investment has seen hundreds of ugly skyscrapers clogging the skyline, most only catering to package holiday tourists. There are few backpacker hostels, the beaches are flooded with litter and crime is high, it has gained the deserving nickname ‘shits-ville’ amongst travellers. I recommend heading straight for Koh Rong.

11. Koh Rong

By this point I’d spend over 6 weeks travelling in South East Asia and still hadn’t seen a real beach, luckily this is where the islands at the south of Cambodia did not disappoint. With a mix of beautiful white beaches and dense jungle terrain, your time on the island of Koh Rong can’t go wrong. Look out for some epic weekly beach parties at some of the island’s bars.

Things to do on Koh Rong:

• Relax on 4K beach
• Jungle trek to long beach
• Snorkelling boat trip
• Experience the beach parties

12. Koh Rong Samloem

Just a short ferry journey away, the paradise island of Koh Rong Samloem is less developed and a little more easy-going than it’s sister island. There are plenty of resorts scattered around, including a secluded experience at Mad Monkey, but I would recommend staying near the main serendipity pier for easy access to everything you need.

Things to do on Koh Rong Samloem

• Watch the sun set at Lazy beach
• See the luminous plankton
• Full moon party at Jungle Bar

Cambodia has a huge variety of destinations and the sleepy riverside town of Kampot is an altogether different experience. Once the country’s many fishing port, today Kampot is better known for it’s pepper. Flouted by locals as the ‘best pepper in the world’, Kampot pepper was Cambodia’s first ever product to receive Protected Geographical Indication in 2016.

Things to do in Kampot

• Visit a pepper plantation
• Day trip to Kep
• Bokor National Park

14. Phnom Penh

Before leaving Cambodia, you’ll want to make a quick stop in the country’s capital, Phnom Penh. I’d recommend spending a little less time here than the previous destinations, but visiting the Killing Fields and S-21 museum is something you must-do whlst in Cambodia.

On a combined visit to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre (Killing Fields) and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), you’ll learn about Cambodia’s dark and harrowing recent history as it lived through a genocide that wiped out a quarter of the population.

I found it to be quite emotional as we heard the stories of survivors on the audio tour but really interesting and hugely worthwhile to anyone who has even the slightest interest in Cambodian history.

Things to do in Phnom Penh

• Killing Fields and S-21 museum
• Speakeasy and rooftop bars
• Royal Palace

Crossing the Cambodia-Vietnam border

Vietnam is the only country on my South East Asia itinerary that you’ll need to apply for an e-visa in advance of arriving in the country . I recommend doing this about 5 working days before you plan to enter the country to allow enough time to receive it. You’ll be required to give a specific entry date which I recommend you stick to.

Average spend in Vietnam: £30/day

15. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

Formerly known as Saigon , the city was renamed after Ho Chi Minh, the former politician who lead Northern Vietnam forces to success during the Vietnam war. Your visit to HCMC will be brimming in history as many of the attractions are dedicated to telling the story of the Vietnamese war.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

• Cu Chi Tunnels
• War Remnants Museum
• Visit the Mekong Delta
• Ben Thanh street food market

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City? Check out this guide to my favourite hostels

Over 1,500m above sea level, Dalat provides a much needed break from the heat found in the rest of Vietnam. But it’s not just the temperate climate that attracts visitors to this hillside resort, Dalat has stunning waterfalls, beautiful lakes and a city that is oddly charming.

Things to do in Dalat

• The Crazy House
• Alpine Roller Coaster

Here are my best hostel recommendations in Dalat

From Dalat, jump aboard one of Vietnam’s sleeper buses and head north to Hoi An. The sleeper buses in Vietnam are much nicer than neighbouring countries and provided you don’t sit at the back, you’ll be treated to your own individual reclining seat.

The ancient town of Hoi An will capture your heart. With the entire city centre designated a UNESCO world heritage site , it’s traditional architecture and local crafts have been well preserved. It’s become known for it’s lanterns which light up the city’s streets and rivers by night making it one of the most photogenic destinations in Vietnam.

Things to do in Hoi An

• Explore the beautiful old town
• Take a lantern crafting workshop
• Cycle through Tra Que Vegetable village
• An Bang Beach

Hoi An to Hue via the Hai Van Pass

The journey from Hoi An to Hue featured on top gear where the Hai Van Pass was described as ‘o ne of the best coastal roads in the world ‘. I was really keen to make this journey for myself so rented a scooter from a rental shop in Hoi An that allows drop off in Hue, they even transported my backpack for me. The journey took a full day, with many other beautiful landmarks to stop off along the way, I can high recommend doing it.

Hue’s position in the very centre of Vietnam has seen it play a crucial role as capital of the Đàng Trong Kingdom and of the Nguyen Dynasty. It’s important historical role can be observed by the large citadel found in the city, with huge stone walls and a vast surrounding moat. The impressive tombs of former emperors can also be visited, each designed by the emperors’ themselves before they died.

Things to do in Hue

• See the imperial city
• Visit the abandoned water park
• Royal tombs

19. Phong Nha National Park

Phong Nha is an exquisite region that has been blessed with an incredible networks of caves, including the largest cave in the world . However, a visit to this record breaking attraction comes with a 2 year waiting list and a USD $3,000 price tag. Luckily, for us backpackers, Phong Nha also has some great budget caving options , including the Dark cave, Paradise cave and Phong Nha cave.

A trip to Phong Nha would not be complete without a visit to The Duck Stop . Here, you can play with over 100 friendly ducks that will follow you around and give you a ‘foot massage’ with their beak, this is the most I laughed during my trip.

Things to do in Phong Nha

• Kayaking and mud bath at the Dark Cave
• The Duck Stop
• Boat trip through Phong Nha Cave

20. Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is often called ‘ Ha Long Bay on land’ due to the protruding limestone monoliths scattered across the landscape akin to those in Ha Long. One of my highlights of Vietnam was the Trang An boat tour where we took a small rowing boat around these beautiful cliffs and caves.

Things to do in Ninh Binh

• Trang An or Tam Coc boat trip
• Hang Mua caves view point

21. Cat Ba Island

Many budget backpackers, including myself, now decided to skip Ha Long Bay which has become riddled with package tourists. Instead, I headed for neighbouring Lan Ha Bay which is part of the same geographical formations as Ha Long Bay but much more affordable.

Cat Ba Island is the launching destination for Lan Ha Bay cruises but also has a number of other attractions including a vast national park to discover..

Things to do on Cat Ba Island

• Lan Ha Bay cruise
• Hiking in Cat Ba national park
• Sunrise at Canon Fort

With over 1,000 years of history, Hanoi is bursting with culture from every corner. Navigating through the city and weaving between the chaotic traffic presents a challenge in itself.

Originally, there were 36 streets, each dedicated to a certain trade. Some of these streets have remained true to this, it’s baffling to walk down a street where every single shop sells the exact same items. Whilst exploring the city I came across a street for shoes, a street for kitchenware, a street for hand tools, etc.

No visit to Hanoi is complete without a visit to the legendary train street. Here, an array of quirky cafes line the edges of a train track. Twice a day they must rush around to bring their tables and chairs inside as they prepare for the train to speed past. It can become overcrowded when the trains are due to pass so visit earlier on to properly enjoy it.

Things to do in Hanoi

• Train street
• Explore the old quarter
• The Note Cafe
• Friday + Saturday night street market

Also read: The best hostels in Hanoi for solo travellers

Getting from Hanoi to Southern Thailand

From the second part of my South East Asia trip, I’d be heading down the southern peninsular, starting with the south of Thailand . Whilst you could fly straight from Hanoi to the south of Thailand, it works out cheapest to fly to Bangkok and take a sleeper bus to the south.

Average spend in South of Thailand: £42/day

23. Koh Tao

By now you’ll likely be over half way through your 4 months journey and ready for a little more beach action. The first stop in the South of Thailand is Koh Tao. Literally meaning ‘turtle island’, Koh Tao was originally an island for political prisoners.

Nowadays, the island is renowned for diving, it’s the perfect spot for beginners with more diving qualifications awarded here than anywhere else in the world. But the island also caters to more experienced divers with Sail Rock considered one of the best dive sites in the gulf of Thailand. Those looking for a more intimate diving experience may want to consider a Thai liveaboard , these usually depart from Khao Lak and head out in to the Andaman Sea for up to 10 days.

If diving isn’t your thing, it’s also a popular spot for snorkelling where you could end up swimming with baby sharks or turtles just off the shore.

Things to do on Koh Tao

• Get a diving qualification
• John Siwan View Point

24. Koh Samui

Thailand’s second largest island has a raft of activities to keep you occupied in between some good beach time. From a coffee shop suspended up in the jungle to the delicious street food and boxing at Lamai saturday night market.

Tourists also flock in their droves to see Hin Ta and Hin Yai, rocks that are famed for their likeness to male and female genitals. It tickled me to watch some of the photo shoots that were taking place at these rocks.

Things to do on Koh Samui

• Tree Bridge Coffee
• Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks

TIP: Although I visited Phuket on my trip, I wouldn’t recommend it at all. Not only was it crazy expensive but also my least favourite place. There were some nice viewpoints and I met some awesome people, but it generally feels quite tacky and would be better suited for stag/hen parties (aka bachelor parties for my friends across the pond) rather than backpacking.

25. Koh Phi Phi

I’ll warn you now, the little island of Koh Phi Phi will steal your heart. From the extraordinary views straight from a post card, to the vibrant nightlife unlike anything else I’d experience during my 4 months in South East Asia.

Although the infamous Maya Bay, made famous by the movie ‘The Beach’, is closed to tourists, there’s an abundance of other remarkable beaches to explore by foot or by boat. In the evening, head to Reggae bar where amateur tourists are encouraged to try their hand at Muay Thai in return for a bucket of cocktail for their sportsmanship – get in the ring if you dare.

Things to do on Koh Phi Phi

• Take a snorkelling day tour
• Sunset at the viewpoint
• Muay Thai at Reggae bar

Average spend in Malaysia: £30/day and Singapore: £33/day

Note: I could probably have spent less but after being on the road for 3+months I ended up splashing out on a sim card in Malaysia , more upmarket hostels and eating in a few nicer restaurants, even still I thought it was cheap prices.

The narrow streets of Penang’s capital, George town , is a destination famed for it’s multiculturalism. Here, Chinese, Indian and Malay influences come together to form an interesting array of architecture, art and cuisine unlike anywhere else in the region.

Look out for the creative Banksy-style murals found on streets throughout the city, some incorporating objects such as bicycles or swings making the art come to life.

Things to do in Penang:

• Street art tour
• Penang Hill
• Batu Ferringhi beach and night market

27. Cameron Highlands

If you love the great outdoors then a few days in the Cameron Highlands will be right up your street. The beautiful Cameron Highlands is a resort made up of a few small towns in the hills of Pahang district, the centre being Tanah Rata.

From here you can take one of the 13 hiking routes of varying difficulties or visit the numerous tea plantations that flourish under the warm climate with heavy rainfall.

Things to do in the Cameron Highlands

• Tea plantations
• Pick-your-own strawberry farms
• Time tunnel museum

28. Kuala Lumpur

In Kuala Lumpur, an eclectic mix of culture, architecture and cuisine fuse together to form the country’s capital city. Whilst you won’t want to spend too much time here, a visit to the capital with give you an insight in to the diversity of Malaysia. The city is in a seemingly endless battle to keep up with the rapid development of neighbouring Singapore which gained independence from Malaysia just 50 years ago.

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur

• See the Petronas towers
• Cocktails on a helipad at Heli-bar
• KL Forest Eco Park – small jungle within the city

29. Malacca

Once the capital of the Malay kingdom and an important trading port, Malacca has been through many regime changes including Portuguese, Dutch and subsequently British colonial rule which saw the demise of Malacca’s influence.

Things to do in Melacca

• Visit Jonker Street weekend market
• Sunset at the floating mosque
• St Paul’s Church ruins

30. Singapore

The final stop on my epic 4 month South East Asia itinerary is Singapore. This modern city at the southernmost point of continental Asia is a massive contrast to some of the other destinations in the region. Clean, green and full of incredible architecture, Singapore would almost blend in better in the west than it does in South East Asia.

Although generally more expensive than neighbouring countries, if you follow my Singapore on a budget recommendations it’s still possible to have a good time at an affordable price. I’d recommend spending 3-4 nights here to fully appreciate it.

Things to do in Singapore

• Marina Bay Sands Light Show
• Gardens by the Bay
• Eat at one of the Hawker Centres

If you move around quicker than me or have longer than 4 months in South East Asia, then you may want to consider these additional destinations:

Phillipines

Unlike the other destinations which can all be reached via land, you’ll need to fly to the Philippines which lies East of Vietnam, but there are plenty of cheap flights from most airports in the region.

Whilst you’ll probably begin your adventure in the capital of Manilla, the country is made up of thousands of islands to explore. Palawan and Cebu are some of the most popular spots to visit in the Philipines where you’ll also find some of the best diving in the world.

Bali, Indonesia

One of the most popular destinations in SE Asia is Bali which is known for its backpacker and digital nomad scene. An interesting fact about Bali is that many people wrongly assume Bali is a separate country whereas it’s actually the name of four islands (the main island of Bali plus 3 smaller islands) in Indonesia.

It’s full of temples, caves, museums, and waterfalls, with the top attraction being the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel South East Asia for 4 Months?

During my 4 months backpacking in South East Asia, I averaged £32 per day (equivalent to USD $40 or €36) whilst living reasonably well. I stayed in mid-range hostels, ate street food or in average priced restaurants, didn’t hold back on the touristy stuff and got wasted alot experienced the nightlife culture.

My spending varied significantly between countries, from an average of £21 per day in Laos up to £42 per day in the south of Thailand, I’ve included my average spend for each country below which doesn’t include inbound/outbound flights, travel insurance or visas.

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Home » Itineraries » Southeast Asia Backpacking Itinerary: A 6 Month Route

Southeast Asia Backpacking Itinerary: A 6 Month Route

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary is designed to help you plan a great trip around the region. It covers the typical backpacking route of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. It then moves onto Peninsular Malaysia and Indonesia, with Singapore to finish. These are great diverse countries with lots to do and see. I have also included Myanmar at the end, should you wish to visit, however this is dependant on the political situation in the country.

This route is by no means rigid and you can amend it as you see fit. Its purpose is to inspire you, to help you decide where to visit, should you visit the region. Use this as a guide to plan to your trip to see what appeals to you. Of course if you want to follow the entire route I think it really does cover the area well.

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary should take around 6 months to complete if you are travelling at a ‘standard’ pace. This means where you can spend a few days here and a few days there. Do as feels right without any need to rush.

It covers a wide variety of places and is designed to show you not only the highlights of each country but some real local gems to. It is based on staying in hostels or guesthouses, and generally taking buses or minivans as the method of transport. Though you could also catch trains in parts of Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia.

Start and end points

Bangkok is selected as the starting point as it’s a major transport hub. It’s an easy city to introduce you into the Southeast Asian way of life. From here you can start exploring the rest of Thailand. The country receives millions of tourists each year and is well set up for backpackers. This is great as you can settle into your rhythm and find out what works for you.

Singapore makes a natural end point, though Bali in Indonesia might be a better option. As with Bangkok, Singapore is a major transport hub, from which you can continue your travels elsewhere or head home. 

If you decide to visit Indonesia then I would still recommend Singapore as your last destination. You can always head straight from Malaysia to Indonesia, or go via Singapore and then head back. This is unless you are heading to Australia, New Zealand or surrounding countries. In that case you are probably best to fly out from Bali. This is based on the idea that generally you can get cheap flights from Bali to Singapore, though of course you might find a better deal going from Bali elsewhere.

They key is to be flexible and check your options before you commit.

I haven’t covered The Philippines or Borneo in this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary. I intend to visit them in the future and add them as extensions.

The route this Southeast Asian backpacking itinerary takes goes like this:

• North Thailand
• South Thailand
• Peninsular Malaysia

If your starting point is Australia or New Zealand, I would recommend doing this route in reverse, beginning with Indonesia and then moving onto Singapore, then onto Malaysia etc.

You can also find Myanmar (as an option, please check the political situation) at the end of this post. If you do visit Myanmar, it make sense to fly there from either Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur. So for the above 6 month route insert it between/around South Thailand and Malaysia. You can check current UK government travel advice for Myanmar here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar

Have a play around with the map to look at the route and the destinations. Hopefully you will feel inspired and it will help with planning your ultimate 6 month Southeast Asian backpacking itinerary!

Thailand (Round 1 – The North)

Lets begin!

Start your journey by flying into Bangkok   and taking a couple of days to explores its temples and acclimatise yourself to the region. It’s a great city to start any Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary as it’s well set up for backpackers. The Grand Palace and Wat Pho can be done together in a day. They make for a nice introduction to Buddhist culture. Khao San Road is big backpacker area so you can easily find people in hostels to go out there with. It’s a great place to make some new friends right away.

Before you head north go westwards, pop over by bus or minivan to Kanchanaburi . Here you can see some World War 2 history in the form of the infamous Bridge Over The River Kwai and the Death Railway. Take a day trip to the beautiful Erawan Waterfalls and view its 7 layers. Go early so you can bus it back into town as they stop running late afternoon.

Then it’s time to start your path up the country. It’s incredibly cheap to catch a train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya   and only takes a couple of hours. It and Sukhothai   (you can take a train to Phitsanulok then bus it there) are both home to UNESCO world heritage sites. These are ancient ruined Thai cities and are well worth 3 or so days between them to explore. Both are former capitals of kingdoms that preceded Siam (which in turn became Thailand).

Embrace culture in Northern Thailand

Then it’s onto Chiang Mai   with its many attractions. Spend up to a week in the area visiting temples, enjoying great food, trekking in Doi Inthanon National Park and visiting the Elephants at the Elephant Nature Park , a sanctuary which seeks to help and protect them. Take a minivan to Pai which is a backpacker town in the mountains. Chill out for a few days, visiting waterfalls, hot springs, caves and backpacker bars! Pai is a big hub for backpackers, and many stay quite awhile. When I visited I planned on 3 days and stayed for 6!

Next up is Chiang Rai , home to the famous Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) and its effective counterpart Baan Dam (Black House). Since I visited a ‘Blue Temple’ has now also opened and comes highly recommended.

Last stop for now in Thailand is the border town of Chiang Kong. It’s easily reached by local bus where you can stay the night before crossing the border to Laos. Whilst it may not have the big attractions of the above places, it’s nice to see what life is alike in a small border town.

Northern Laos

Once you’ve got your visa and headed into Houay Xay and secure your place on the 2 day, 1 night Slow Boat journey along the Mekong. It’s a fun way to enjoy the slow-paced river life and make new backpacker friends aboard the boat. You’ll stop for the night in Pak Beng where there will be a scramble for guesthouse rooms.

Once you arrive in Luang Prabang take your time to explore the laid back city and be sure to famous the famous Kuang Si waterfalls, renown for their natural beauty.  

Then head north to Nong Khiaw . You can spend some time in the town if you like it, it’s very scenic, and then head by boat along to Muang Ngoi Neua   where you can chill for a while and then do some trekking with a local guide to stay with a hill tribe.

Central Laos

Head back to Luang Parabang then onwards to the backpacker town of Vang Vieng , known for tubing and parties but also a nice place to chill out and appreciate life. Just pick your accommodation carefully if you want to be able to sleep! You can also spend hours just sat in a cafe watching Friends! The 90’s TV show is a popular one here with bars/cafes based around its viewing!

Then it’s onto Vientiane which is a good place to sort your visa for Vietnam, though you will have to know the dates of your visit. Whilst it is the capital of Laos I don’t think it’s that great for backpackers. So don’t plan to dwell long! I’d advise to get the visa sorted asap. However do be sure to stop by the COPE museum. Here you will learn about the horrors inflicted on the Laos people in the ‘secret war’. This was an American bombing campaign inflicted upon Laos in the Vietnam war.

Then it’s time to head off the beaten track again, and Konglor is a great place to get away from the traditional route as it has very few overnight tourists, just handful each day, though there is a steady stream to visit Konglor Cave. Some people also choose to do the (Motor) Bike Loop from Thakhek (which includes Konglor) and everyone I know who’s done it has enjoyed it.

Southern Laos

Heading down the country will require at least passing through Savannakhet and given the sheer amount of time the bus journeys take it’s wise to stay in Pakse for the night, even though the town itself is nothing special. Although very backpackers go there I really recommend a day in Champasak as it has the largest Khmer ruins outside of Cambodia which are fun to explore for the afternoon, and you can spend the evening relaxing by the riverside in what is a very quiet peaceful little town.

The 4000 Islands are a wonderful place to spend a few days doing not a lot. Don Det is the main backpacker island here, turn up and grab yourself a bungalow (I recommend West facing for great views of sunset) and chill out in a hammock for a while. You can also head over to Don Khon to see the beautiful Somphamit Waterfalls. Consider a boat trip too around the islands for sunset. It’s a great spot on this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary to recharge before journeying on. 

Then it’s decision time – Vietnam or Cambodia?

It’s easier to get to Cambodia from the 4000 islands, but personally when I made this trip I went for Vietnam. This required me to head back up to Savannakhet and then across to Dansavan. I crossed the border and somehow flagged down a minivan. They took me to Đông Hà and then put me onto another van which took me to my goal – Huế.

It wasn’t easy and if I had to do it again I would do it differently. I’d take a night bus from the 4000 islands back to Vientiane. Then I would either fly or long distance bus it to Hanoi from there.  

Why Vietnam first? Because you can work your way from top to bottom of the country. Then head into Cambodia and from there into Thailand again with relative ease.  You can see from the map points how it makes logistical sense once you’ve got from the 4000 islands to Hanoi.  Of course you could skip the 4000 islands all together. Though they are an awesome place to relax for a few days! Do what feels right for you.

But if you want to visit Cambodia before Vietnam simply swap the 2 countries around here. Then do Vietnam in reverse order, flying from Hanoi to Bangkok at the end.

Northern Vietnam

The capital Hanoi is a great base for backpackers and there are plenty of museums to keep you occupied when you’re not wandering the streets of the old quarter dodging motorbikes or hanging out in backpacker bars.  

Take the bus to SaPa  and go trekking with a local hill tribe guide. The mountain scenery is superb and the area is famous for its rice terraces. You can stay overnight in a home stay which is a really worthwhile experience.

After passing back through Hanoi over to Cat Ba Island from which you can also take a tour of the scenic Halong Bay .  If you’re feeling active Cat Ba is a good place to go rock climbing or Kayaking. The local operators will take you out to their own private islands which is very cool!

The Middle Bit

Phong Nah has only opened up to tourists in the past few years. Its home to the largest cave in the world, Hang Sơn Đoòng. Whilst you won’t be able to see that (only 400 people per year and a few thousand dollars in price) there are plenty of other caves to explore. Phong Nah Cave and Tien Son Cave are 2 you can reach by river boat. Join a tour of the park where you can do the longest zipline in Vietnam and experience the Paradise Cave and Dark Cave. Bring swimwear – to say it’s muddy is understatement of epic proportions! Don’t worry they have lockers.

Huế is home to the Imperial City. Whilst it was badly damaged by French bombing and fighting in the Vietnam-American war it’s still worth checking out. There are also some cool Pagoda’s and a good backpacking scene.

As you head downwards next stop is Hội An , with its beautiful old city which served as a trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries and has an interesting blend of cultural influence including Japanese and Chinese. Its also famous for its tailors and pretty shop fronts. Be sure to stay out by the beach for a day or 2 as well for some relaxation. An Bang has some good accommodation options right by the beach. This includes the wonderful ‘Under The Coconut Tree’ which has dorms and private bungalows.

Southern Vietnam

There is a lot to see and do in and around Da Lat , and be sure to check out the 100 Roofs Café which blends a bar with a maze with a haunted house. Sound fun? It is! The designer also built the Crazy House which has to be experienced to be believed. Outside the city you will find the Dalanta Waterfall complete with one of the coolest roller coaster experiences. Then head to the mountains where you can get great views from LangBiang. Plus my all time favourite hostel, Cozy Nook, is located here!

When in Mui Ne   take a tour of the fairy stream, fishing village and sand dunes (white and red), they are cheap and it’s worth it. The chill out on the beach, which has many kite surfers to watch (or join in if you fancy it!)

The frantic Ho Chi Minh City (aka Saigon) can be a bit much at times. Loads of traffic and people hassling you in the street (in the backpacking district). But still a trip to the Củ Chi tunnels used by the Viet Cong and a visit to the War Remnants museum will really hit home the horrors of war.

The Mekong Delta – heading to Cambodia

Be picky when choosing a tour of the Mekong Delta , go for one which has good reviews online as they can be a bit hit and miss but are worth it for their look at local life on the waterways. Plus you can take one that includes border crossing by boat into Cambodia.  Which is a lot quicker and easier than the bus routes!

The capital

Start your time here with a trip to the royal palace grounds in Phnom Penh before preparing yourself to learn about the genocide of the Khmer Rouge with visits to the S21 Prison and the Killing Fields. It is a harrowing experience.

Pop up to Kratie to see the endangered Irrawaddy river dolphins in the Mekong river.

Take note that a lot of travel in Cambodia will require passing through Phnom Penh whichever way you’re going.  The infrastructure here is understandably lacking given what happened under the Khmer Rouge.

Those famous ruins

Siem Reap is the base from which to see The Temples Of Angkor , including of course Angkor Wat and many others. You can buy a 3 day pass to the Temple zones. Unless you’re on a flying visit this is advised as there is a lot to see! Siem Reap itself is a bit of  party town, its main street is named ‘Pub Street’ after all.

Head on over to Battambang where you can watch over a million Bats leave their cave in a stream that lasts for over half an hour, as they head out hunting for the night. Visit the killing caves to learn more about the horrors of the past.

The south coast

The riverside town of Kampot is a nice place to relax for a couple of days. Be sure to head up into the mountains to see the ruins of Bokor, a French colonial mansion and church. Kep is only 45 minutes drive away, with a pleasant beach and a national park you can wander around in. If you fancy it you can visit the secluded Rabbit island from here. 

Sihanoukville is somewhat overrun with tourists whose main purpose is to drink, but venture away from town to the Otres beaches for some quiet and to be rewarded by beautiful sunsets. It’s also the gateway to the islands of  Koh Rong , Koh Rong Sanloem and Koh Ta Kiev . Koh Rong’s main beach isn’t that pleasant but the others on the island are superb. Sok San’s white beach in particular where you can rent a bungalow for a while! Koh Rong Sanloem’s M’Pai Bay is a chilled out backpacker village.

Many people choose to cross back in Thailand at Poipet but this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary recommends going via Koh Kong . You can take a night or 2 town and take a tour to visit the uninhabited island.  It’s owned by the military and overnight stay is forbidden, which means empty beaches! The border crossing itself is easy. Take a Tuk Tuk to the border. Then once you’ve sorted your Thai entry you can take a minivan to Trat.

Thailand (Round 2 – The Islands)

Island life

Trat.  Whether you stay a night here or not is up to you. There’s not a lot to see in truth, it’s really just a transit point. Go by ferry to get to the nearby islands, or head by road to Bangkok. The main island nearby is Koh Chang (Big) which has multiple beaches. Lonely beach is the popular party spot so you might want to stay elsewhere then head there in the evening. Pyjamas hostel is right by Klong Prao beach so is a good backpacker option. If you fancy it you can always visit the islands of Koh Mak or Koh Kut whilst here too.

Then it’s time to head back through Bangkok before you head down south. Take your time to get supplies if you need them. Bangkok is also a great place to do things like go to the cinema or browse shopping malls, so if you need a small time out from backpacking consider staying a few days.

Next up take the train to Chumphon as it’s pretty cheap. From here you can take the ferry to 3 of Thailand’s most famous islands. Koh Tao , famous for its diving and scenic viewpoint, Koh Phangan which hosts the Full Moon Party so is the big party spot once a month, but quieter other times, and Koh Samui which has both quiet and loud spots. The ferry’s tend to go early in the morning, so you’ll probably need a night in Chumphon before catching them.

If you want to do a Full Moon party, check here for dates .

Once you’ve finished visiting these islands you can then take a ferry to Surat Thani on the mainland. From here where you can catch a bus or mini van to your next stop on this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary. 

Stop for a night or two in Krabi Town and visit the Tiger Cave Temple (no actual Tigers).  Here you can climb up a long flight of steps (1,237 steps to the summit) to get a great view of the surrounding area. Krabi is on the mainland but still has parts that can only be reached by boat. This is due to the area’s dense jungle. Head to Ao Nang to catch a boat to Tonsai   which is backpacker village in the jungle, a haven for hippies and rock climbers. You can walk across the beach or through a small part of the jungle to reach Railay which has beautiful beaches (West Railay and Phranang) and is a very popular destination. Stay here if you don’t fancy a jungle bungalow, though the prices are significantly more.

More Islands!

Head back to Krabi town before deciding where to head next. If you’re enjoying the popular islands then Koh Lanta , Koh Phi Phi and Phuket are all nearby. The latter is the largest island in Thailand and a very popular holiday destination. Koh Phi Phi’s popularity soared after the film ‘The Beach’ was filmed there. If you fancy something more quiet, head up to Ranong and take a ferry to Koh Phayam . It’s a quiet paradise island with beautiful beaches and very few people on them. Nearby is the smaller Koh Chang which is of the same theme. Both are ideal for a few days away from it all!

Moving on Thailand you could either head south and cross by land or return to Bangkok and take a flight.

This segment of the Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary covers Peninsular Malaysia .  Many backpackers explore what Kuala Lumpur has to offer in a couple of days, the Batu Caves and the Petronas Twin Towers are the 2 big ones here. Though invest some more time in the city and you can discover much more. Highlight include the amazing Islamic Arts Museum and the view from the KL Tower. From here take a bus to Cameron Highlands and see the impressive tea plantations, stay in Tanah Rata which is the biggest of the towns in this old British Colonial Hill Station. The take a bus and boat trip to the village of Kuala Tahan . From here you can explore the oldest rainforest in the world, Taman Negara !

Colonial History

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary now move onto with the British Straits Settlements. Explore the streets of  Georgetown on the island of Penang . Here you will find street art and Chinese temples, and can take a bus Penang Hill too for great views over the city. Then Malacca which has interesting blend of history and culture from in Chinese influences as a trading port. It also has some great street art to check out. It’s easy to get a bus from here to Singapore to continue this 6 month Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary. Stop at Johor Bahru if you want one more night in Malaysia and experience life in a border city. Or alternatively head back to Kuala Lumpur for a flight to Indonesia.

Singapore and Indonesia

At this part of your Southeast Asia backpacking trip it would be wise to have a plan in action regarding flights. It could work out best for you to go next to Indonesia, either straight from Malaysia or via Singapore. Or it might make sense to visit Singapore first and then end this route by flying out of Bali.

For the purpose of this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary I’ve decided to go with Indonesia first, and end with Singapore. But it could also work the other way around, have a good look at flights and figure out what gives you best value (in both time and money).

The listed countries in this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary cover around 6 months worth of travel. If you want to extend this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary then Indonesia is a great choice to spend more time in. It is of course a huge country, comprising of 17,508 islands. What I’ve listed here for this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary covers around 3 to 4 weeks worth of travelling. You could add places like Sumatra and Sulawesi and really explore the country. Be sure to check visa requirements though, generally a visa on arrival grants you up to 30 days. So you would need to get a visa in advance if you’re thinking of doing much more.

Culture and Nature 

Yogyakarta  is great place to start, you can fly here direct from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. It’s a cultural hub and you can visit the amazing temples of Borobudur and Prambanan from the city. Then head to Mount Bromo and take a look into an active volcano! Crossing over to Bali you can experience Balinese culture and religion in Ubud . The beautiful rice fields are a great thing to see here too. Then check out some of the beaches. You also have the opportunity to visit another active Volcano. A trek up Mount Batur for sunrise is a popular excursion here.

Sunsets and Dragons

From Bali you take a boat over to the Gili Islands . Gili Trawangan is the party island here. The other 2 are more relaxed. Gili Air is the best for backpackers who want a social vibe without the party pressure. Flying from Bali (or taking a boat via Lombok) you can reach Flores. From here you can take a boat tour to explore the Komodo National Park . The major highlight for many here is the opportunity to see the Komodo Dragons who live in the islands. Afterwards head back to Bali for your flight out of the country.

The city-state is major transport hub and therefore a natural end point for this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary. A good stop whether you are planning to continue to Borneo or The Philippines, head home or go on elsewhere. But lets not focus just on the end of the journey here, Singapore is worthy addition to any Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary in it’s own right. There’s plenty of attractions to keep you busy for a couple of days (or longer) before you do.

The Gardens By The Bay are awe inspiring modern construction, with an amazing light show every evening. China Town and Little India are well worth explore, especially for the food! And there are many museums including the Asian Civilisations Museum which has a huge detailed collection covering the region. Singapore really has a lot to offer and if it’s your last stop on your Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary then it’s a good one to end with.

Visiting Myanmar

The political situation in Myanmar has changed a lot over the last decade. When I visited it was before the 2021 military coup and this will obviously have an effect on travel to the country going forward. I really recommend checking the political situation before you and checking what travel restrictions are in place. I strongly advise not visiting until democracy is restored. The country is in a civil war at present. If you do decide to visit Myanmar be sure to have sorted an e-visa online before you head there. It’s probably best to fly into Yangon from Bangkok, and out via Mandalay.

Starting out

Fly into Yangon   and spend a couple of days here. There’s plenty of Buddhist sites here including the huge Shwedagon Paya. The downtown area is full of interesting colonial buildings and local life. 

Myanmar’s central plains are home to the magnificent temples of Bagan . Over 2000 temples constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries still remain here, marking its legacy as the capital of the Kingdom Of Pagan.

The 3 day trek from Kalaw to Inle Lake is a popular highlight and it’s easy to see why, you stay with locals and get a really good insight into life in the area as well as trekking through its amazing scenery. Sort the trek when you arrive in Kalaw. Be sure to meet your guide beforehand and check other options if you’re not keen on them. There are usually groups going so you can join one (if you don’t have one yourself). It makes the journey more fun as you have people to chat with.

When you arrive at Inle stay in Nyaungshwe where the wonderful Song Of Travel hostel caters for backpackers, along with numerous guesthouses. You can take a boat tour of the lake to see local life on it.

Getting off the beaten track

If you’re feeling adventurous head down Loikaw . Not visited by many backpackers, you can take a guide to see local villages and the tribes that inhabit them. It may be worth trying to arrange this whilst in Nyaungshwe. These villages have only just opened up to tourists and there’s little infrastructure in place.

The bus journey to Hsipaw is a long and windy one but it’s worth it as it’s a friendly town with good trekking options to stay with local villages. Mr Charles is the big guesthouse in town and has good options but i’d recommend Lily The Home as the trek I did with them was great.

Afterwards take the train across the Gokteik Viaduct, it’s a really scenic ride and crossing the viaduct is an experience you’ll remember! Get off at  Pyin Oo Lwin and enjoy the beautiful National Kandawgyi Botanical Gardens for the afternoon.

Take a shared taxi to   Mandalay where you can explore the religious sites and visit the famous U-Bein Bridge before your flight out of the country.

This brings the destination part of this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary to an end. Now for some advice about how to organise your trip.

Planning the details.

Before you head off there are of course somethings you need to consider.

When to go?

November is the ideal month to begin this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary, should you be able to pick as you please. This is so you can avoid ‘rainy season’ and acclimatize yourself to the heat. It won’t all be sun, you will come across some colder conditions in Northern Vietnam in December and January time. And should you choose to visit, Myanmar does get very hot in April. But on the whole, starting your 6 months in November should give you a good balance.

Of course this date might not be practical, so as a guide for planning bear in mind the following. March to August is generally going to be very hot in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Rainy season generally starts around May, and the storms can be very big. There can be flooding, for example Bangkok has suffered much with this in the past. September and October are when raining season is at it’s most wettest.

Take note that this is different in Malaysia and Indonesia. Malaysia’s west coast experience’s its rainy season from around April to October. East coast Malaysia then gets its rainy season from November to March. Indonesia generally experiences its dry season from May to September.

Air pollution is also a factor to consider. I would advise against travelling to Northern Thailand between January and March as air quality can become very low and hazardous. This is because of ‘smoky season’ where the farmers burn the land to prepare it for crops.

Budgeting for this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary

Generally South East Asia is very cheap to travel, especially when compared to Europe or North America. Of course how much you spend will vary depending on how many activities you wish to participate in. Things like rock climbing and kayaking are great fun but do add a big chunk to your daily spend. You don’t want to miss out though so always have some extra cash for activities.  And of course alcohol adds a big chuck to your budget to, if you’re a big drinker! This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary covers many spots where it’s easy to meet other backpackers. And whilst partying isn’t the focus on this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary, there is plenty of opportunity to do so if you wish.

Treks however are great value for money when overnight accommodation and meals are included. Don’t forget that when negotiating a price, it might seem expensive but don’t forget about these 2 things.

In general i’d say plan for around 1000$ a month. This is including everything apart from your flights to and from the region. And your immunizations before you go of course! Don’t forget them.

Cultural considerations

You may be packing for many beach days but don’t forget that you will need to ‘cover up’ when you visit temples. This means covering your shoulders and your legs to below the knee. If you don’t you will cause offence in Buddhist temples and other holy sites. You would likely not be allowed entry if they have staff working there. Usually there are clothes available to rent to cover up but it’s better to wear your own.

You can read my specific advice on Buddhism here .

Note that this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary covers several predominantly Buddhist countries but you will encounter various religions over the region. Especially in Malaysia, which is a Muslim country also home to many Hindus as well as Buddhists. And also Indonesia, which is Muslim with a significant Hindu population in Bali and Christian populations dotted around.

Visas 

Make sure you check the visa requirements for your nationality before you enter a country. Whist many countries in South East Asia do offer ‘visa on arrival’ make sure you qualify for it. Check how much you will need to pay so you have the currency ready at the border post.  It will be time limited too. Vietnam for example offers 14 days for some nationalities. I personally don’t think this enough time to really explore the country, so I got a visa in advance in Laos. Also before you fly out check your airline’s requirements. Sometimes ‘visa on arrival’ technically requires you to have outbound travel booked. Often airlines are much more concerned with this than border officials.

If you are planning to get visas in advance at embassies remember to check public holidays and visa process times. You don’t want to get stuck somewhere for longer than intended because you are waiting for a visa. For example during the Buddhist celebrations of Songkran in Thailand and Thingyan in Myanmar you will find their embassies closed. Make sure you check the dates first.

Going alone?

There are loads of people who travel solo and Southeast Asia is a popular place for it. Don’t worry about meeting people, you will come across loads who want to hang out. Staying in hostels is a good way to do this. Use hostel booking sites to read reviews before you go, so you can find an atmosphere you will like. For example to check whether it’s a party hostel or not, you may or may not want that so find out beforehand. For some more tips check out my Solo Travel Advice.

Making your own Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary

This Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary is of course not rigid. I have made it to help people plan their own journeys, not for it to be stuck to precisely. If you have your own particular interests then you will want to focus more on them. Research is of course fun but don’t be afraid to figure stuff out as you go. Other backpackers are a great source of information. The key is to be flexible, don’t book stuff too far in advance unless you absolutely you have to. Give yourself room to amend plans and you will be happier for it.

I also recommend using this post in conjunction with my Southeast Asia Highlights to help build your bucket list. It features a collection of my favourite experiences in the region.

Yes, it is relatively safe. Violent crime is low. Your main concern should be petty theft, which means always keeping your stuff safe. But this goes for travel anywhere, I wouldn’t say Southeast Asia was ‘worse’ than anywhere else. In fact, it’s safer than many western countries.

These are of course real concerns, and I advise taking precautions. In terms of malaria you should check with your medical provider before you go. If you’re planning to enter any high risk zones, it’s definitely advised to take antimalarials. In terms of dengue, there is currently no specific treatment available. You should do what you can to prevent yourself being bitten by mosquito’s. Put on bug spray that is 50% DEET (children use 15% to 30%). Try to cover to your wrists and ankles. Wearing loose fitting clothes as they can bite through tight clothes. If you can sleep under a mosquito net.

Yes. I really recommend that you get everything you can. Plan in advance as some courses take months to administer.

I wrote this itinerary based on six months as that is generally regarded as a decent amount of time to backpack the region. I have certainly met many people doing six months here either before or after working in Australia, for example. Personally though I say if you can do longer than six, then do longer.

Want more Southeast Asia backpacking tips? Click here to check them out.

More detailed itineraries:

As well as this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary I have also developed more detailed itineraries that cover the areas mentioned here. Click the relevant link below to go to the itinerary:

I hope you found this Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary useful and are inspired to go on your own trip! If you enjoyed this article feel free to connect with me on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram !

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Home » Southeast Asia » Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking Southeast Asia Travel Guide (Budget Tips • 2024)

For many travellers, backpacking Southeast Asia is the ultimate highlight of their backpacking adventures. If you are coming from Western civilisation, exploring these mystical countries is like being catapulted into an alternate reality.

Over my travel experiences, I’ve spent YEARS bouncing around this dazzling area of the world. And still – to this day – I am awe-struck by it, time and time again.  

From the moment you set foot on the continent, you can feel the electricity in the air. Your senses explode from stimulation as you head out into the hustle and bustle in search of the BEST street food and an ice-cold beer…

If you’re new to backpacking, this corner of the world is a great place to start your travels: it’s affordable, safe, diverse, friendly, and astonishingly beautiful. From the heart of Bangkok to the islands of Indonesia, legions of inspiration are found in every country throughout the region – and you’ll want to see it all. 

With enticing tales of adventure coming from generations of travellers, it can be hard to know where to start planning your visit to Southeast Asia. It’s not as straight forward as arriving in other continents in the world. Having some travel tips with do you a world of good. 

Never fear! This Southeast Asia travel guide details ALL the low-down with everything you need to know to embark on your epic journey. From the OG Banana Pancake Trail itinerary to my favourite cheap eats, this guide has it all.

Spoiler alert : banh mi is the best street food!

Fasten your seat belts and don’t forget your motorcycle helmet. This is the ultimate backpacker’s guide to travelling Southeast Asia!

Why Go Backpacking in Southeast Asia?

Backpacking Southeast Asia is wildly chaotic, punctuated by brief moments of reflection and utter calm. When I first landed in Vietnam and began my travels in the region, I got that wonderful thought of so this is what travelling is about .

The best thing about visiting Southeast Asia is that you can stick to the well-trodden path and still have a mind-blowing adventure that’s easy on logistics. There are cheap buses you can catch between countries, it’s easy to buy your own motorbike and explore yourself, plus internal flights are usually cheap too.

Conversely, it’s very easy to step off into the wilderness and have a raw, untamed adventure. Some of my best memories come from taking a side road through the jungle on the Vietnam-Laos border. I camped on the outskirts of small villages amongst unruly jungles that hadn’t seen tourists come through in 10 years. Of course, obligatory rice wine was shared each night!

Generally speaking, backpacking in Southeast Asia is very cheap compared to travelling to other parts of the world. You don’t have to count your pennies and hustle at every step of the way in order to enjoy a beer at the end of the day. I’d say this part of the world takes the cake when it comes to budget backpacking .

Because the region is so cheap, you can enjoy big-ticket experiences that you might not be able to afford in other regions of the world. This could include world-class SCUBA diving in Malaysia , or a freediving course in the Philippines.

Even the ‘everyday experiences’ of backpacking Southeast Asia are epic, though! Think about taking yoga classes in the morning and surf in the afternoons in Indonesia . What about hiking through dense jungles exploding with wildlife, raging rivers, and massive waterfalls in Laos ? And you can’t forget to explore Vietnam by motorbike .

There is a reason that, despite how touristy some parts of the region get, Southeast Asia remains an incredibly special place to both first time and veteran travellers!

It’s just that bloody good .

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Southeast Asia

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Let us be clear about one thing: Southeast Asia has so many things to do and see that it would be impossible to see it all in one lifetime let alone in just one backpacking trip. That said, you can sure pack in a whole lot no matter what your time frame is!

Also, remember that this is a region that lives, breathes, and thrives on a certain degree of chaos. Backpacking in Southeast Asia requires one to adapt to that chaos and embrace the wonderful spontaneity that can arise here.

I don’t think that you should attempt to plan your trip to the last tuk-tuk ride. That said, having a general Southeast Asia travel itinerary in mind will help you get the most out of your trip. You don’t want to spend your time scrambling for things to do – nor do you want to pack so much into your travels that you forget to enjoy yourself.

Do you have 2 weeks? 3 months? 6 months? No matter what your time frame is, the itineraries I have listed below have helpful travel routes for Southeast Asia to suit all schedules.

Note that each itinerary can be combined with another, done in reverse, and customized based on your interests. Sometimes it’s worth leaving off one or two sights in order to fully enjoy the others.

2 Weeks Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: An Epic Getaway

When low on time, I advise sticking to smaller countries like Laos, Thailand, or Cambodia. That way the transportation distances won’t eat a big bite out of your precious backpacking time. You will certainly only be scratching the surface, but you will leave with an even more intense hunger to return!

You could start your 2 weeks by visiting Bangkok  and exploring the city for a few days. Thailand also has some spectacular temple ruins of its own at Ayathuya and  Sukhothai which are close to Bangkok and well worth checking out.

From Bangkok, it’s easy to travel to Chiang Mai  in Northern Thailand and from Chiang Mai onwards to the mountain town of Pai in just a few hours. If the north doesn’t quite do it for you, you can always go party on the epic Thai islands in the south.

Alternatively, you could go from Bangkok across the border into Cambodia . There you can go see Angkor Wat and go south to visit the tropical islands off Cambodia. While there is a party vibe on the Cambodian islands, they’re definitely more relaxed. Think swimming at night with bioluminescence and chilling all day in a hammock with just a splash of psytrance.

3 Months Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: The Banana Pancake Trail

This backpacking itinerary takes you through the heart of what put Southeast Asia on the map. This is the juiciest of the banana pancake trail!

I would recommend flying into Bangkok and still kicking off your Southeast Asian travel with a bang. As you head north to the likes of Chiang Mai and the hippie village of Pai where there are lots of opportunities to creep off the beaten path.

Explore the best of what Thailand has to offer before heading to Laos. Take the slow boat from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang . If you have time,  climb Mount Phousi , because daaaaaaaamn , those views are insane! 

Laos receives a fair amount of backpackers, however far fewer than Thailand. The main attraction to Laos is its unmatched natural beauty, kind people, and rock-bottom prices. Vang Vieng is the main backpacker playground in Laos; this is the place where you can smoke a joint and eat banana pancakes all day.  Tad Lo Waterfall is definitely worth the visit as well.

Vietnam is another classic stop on this route. Soak in the majestic views and cooler temperatures of the mountains in the north before heading south. Hire a motorcycle, explore the cities, go scuba diving, or hop around the islands.

Vietnam has THE best street food in all of Southeast Asia, so prepare your belly for bliss. From backpacking Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi there are ample rice paddies, bustling metropolises, and banh mi glory to enjoy!

Finally, travel to Cambodia and Angkor Wat en route back to Thailand’s southern beaches. Learn about Cambodia’s sobering recent history whilst exploring some of the most impressive temples and beaches in all of Southeast Asia.

You can finish your 3-month extravaganza with a full moon party on one of Thailand’s best beaches. Bottoms up! You deserve it.

6+ Months Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: The Longterm Backpacker

You will not be the first backpacker who loved backpacking Southeast Asia so much that you spent 6 months there followed by another 6 months followed by another cheeky 6 months. The longer you spend here, the more that the region opens up beyond parties on the beach.

Go trekking in Borneo! Get your ass to Indonesia and explore a few of the thousands of remote islands there! Hit up far-flung places in the Philippines! I will always vouch for travelling off the beaten path .

This itinerary would still have you flying into Bangkok AKA Asia’s Sin City. Backpacking Thailand is almost a rite of passage for those that backpack Southeast Asia. Now, while Thailand is crazy beautiful, you can experience a lot of Thailand’s best highlights  in a month or less. 

You can travel south to explore Cambodia and the Thai islands before crossing over into Northern Malaysia . Check out Langkawi Island before heading south. Staying in Penang is the best; it’s one of my favourite cities in Southeast Asia, with some great hikes and diving to be had around Penang National Park .

Alternatively, you can travel to Bali or Manila  from Bangkok and explore a totally new part of Southeast Asia. Philippine highlights include climbing Mt Pulag ,  Sagada’s Crystal Cave  and  Olahbinan ,  Kalinga Jungle ,  El Nido for some climbing and partying, and Coron for epic scuba diving.

If you want to dedicate a couple of months to Indonesia you won’t be disappointed. Alongside the Bali to Flores route, you can also catch a flight to Sumatra . Here, visit the orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang  and the stunning Lake Toba .

Also on tap here is world-class diving at Pulau Weh . This tiny island is located at either the beginning or end of Indonesia, depending on which way you’re looking at the map. You’ll have to pass through the town of Banda Acehto  to reach here, which is the only place in Indonesia that has Sharia Law in place. This definitely isn’t the place to come party while backpacking Indonesia, but the juice is worth the squeeze if you get to Pulau Weh.

Is this the Best Hostel in South East Asia?

Tribal Hostel  – Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!

An ideal hub for Digital Nomads and backpackers, this very special hostel is now finally open…

Come on down and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi and a game of pool?

Southeast Asia is truly massive .

There are 11 countries that comprise the Southeast Asian region; each one is special and also radically different in its own ways. You won’t even be eating the same food from country to country. Sure, it’s all mostly rice-based, but is it fried Nasi Goreng with an egg on top or is it laden with spicy green Thai curry?

The landscapes are even more varied with jungles, mountains, epic coastlines, and deserted islands all found in this region.

There’s something addictive to landing smack bang in the humid collection of markets, traffic, and skyrises that do crop up amongst all major Southeast Asian cities. Just visiting one or two of these countries will have you desperate to come back for more!

Backpacking Thailand

For many first timers, backpacking Thailand is the image at the forefront of their imaginations when it comes to destinations in Southeast Asia. Those white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and towering jungle peaks are sprinkled with a little hedonistic fun and low, low prices.

Finding a Thailand backpacking route is easy, as many routes are well-established and there are plenty of backpackers on the ground to grab tips from. You just never know who will suggest an epic street food vendor where you find spicy watermelon, or who will give you the heads up that certain roads have become notorious for police asking for bribes.

In addition to its natural splendour, Thailand boasts some of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities, especially if you are wanting to settle in somewhere as long term as a digital nomad. In fact, Thailand is rapidly becoming the digital nomad capital of the world. While being a digital nomad changes your travels , it can be incredibly rewarding – especially if you’re surrounded by a group of like-minded people.

Thailand receives more visitors annually than any other Southeast Asia nation by a long shot, so it’s not super easy to get off the beaten path. That being said, if you drive far enough north, you’ll stop seeing tourists and start seeing covert drug smuggling routes. I’m not suggesting that drug smuggling routes make the best adventure – especially for first-time backpackers – but if you happen to find work as a fresh-faced, aspiring journalist, then this country is definitely still full of stories.

There are also some lesser-known hikes nearby Chiang Pai – plus the motorbike riding around there is amazing . Just be aware of elephant experiences–the vast majority are unethical, so make sure you do your research and only visit TRUE sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park.

What to Know Before Visiting Thailand

• Don’t miss out on… the North – this is the REAL Thailand! Sure, those Southern Islands are beautiful and full of some cheeky debauchery, but if you want to get off the beaten path then you need the jungle mountains of the north.
• You know what’s overrated… the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan – it’s pretty sloppy here, not to mention hectic. The Eden Party is way better.
• The coolest hostel is… Get Hi Hostel in Chiang Rai is a The Broke Backpacker favourite! Especially if you’re travelling solo through Thailand, it’s a perfect place to find your tribe.
• The best food is found in… Bangkok. If you find yourself craving a cheesy pasta or fat steak you won’t be disappointed in this city! But even better (in my opinion) are the endless side alleys and markets selling incredible street food. Spicy watermelon, pad thai style noodle salads, and soups so spicy you’ll sweat out your demons… YES, please!

Backpacking Vietnam

Over the last few decades, Vietnam has charged to the head of the line as a top destination for backpackers. Delicious cuisine, cheap places to stay, epic ancient temples, and mind-boggling motorbike routes are just a few of the draws that make up the charm in Vietnam.

If you are wanting to explore Southeast Asia by motorbike, then Vietnam is the best place to go. The country is long and thin, so it’s perfect for a road trip and bikes with Vietnamese plates can enter most other countries in Southeast Asia (this is pretty unique).

Vietnam has the feeling of a country that’s leapt into the future so quickly that its countryside is buffering to catch up. When exploring Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City, or any of Vietnam’s big cities you’ll find skyscrapers and high-speed internet. There are underground music scenes and students who deal a little weed on the side to ex-pats. The streets are thick with motorbikes.

Then there’s the countryside: rolling green rice paddies, straw hats, and shacks. The mornings are long and slow, the evening is full of the sound of insects. Fields are thick with buffalo herds. And yet, both sides of Vietnam are united by their incredible food.

Pho might be the most famous noodle broth, but it’s far from the only tasty meal. Vietnam knows how to make a meal out of very little and they know how to make it taste good . Most backpackers will at some point indulge in a 3 am banh mi after a big night out and know what I mean!

What to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

• Don’t miss out on… the  Ha Giang Loop by motorbike . This one of the hidden gems of Vietnam that takes you through towering jungle covered mountains on windy, delicate roads. This is not for the faint hearted or ill prepared. This is a real adventure!
• Look out for… those bamboo pipes in the north – they’re used for smoking local tobacco and hit HARD. You might risk lung cancer, but all in the name of experiencing the local way of life, right?
• The coolest hostel is… Redhouse Dalat . It’s easily one of the most beautiful hostels I’ve ever stayed in and the owner, Linh, is an absolute gem!
• The best food is found in… Hue – it’s well known for its Central Vietnamese plates. I had quite possibly the best meal of my life here (definitely top 10, anyway). In a back alley, crammed into plastic chair far too small for me, I sampled the legendary Bun Bo Hue… I never knew noodles and broth would make me want to become a foodie.

Backpacking Laos

Laos is truly a special country in Southeast Asia and one that has managed to retain its easy-going identity in the era of mass tourism. Wild jungles, river deltas, smiling locals, and amazing treks make Laos the backpacking paradise that it is.

Places in northern Laos, like the areas in and around Luang Prabang , experience cooler temperatures in the mountains and rainforest. The south is more of the agricultural heart of the country.

Each area holds a lot to explore for backpackers. Laos is the perfect country for backpackers wanting to experience Southeast Asia within a short time frame as you can get in a bit of all climates, different cultures, and party vibes.

One can easily see the highlights and experience the country off the beaten path in 2 weeks to a month. Take it easy though. Laos is a country that is not to be rushed through. Plus, going slow means you might just end up on the 420-friendly river island– Don Det –just like I did!

You will see when you get your boots on the ground that nothing happens quickly in Laos anyway… This is a land of chill .

What to Know Before Visiting Laos

• Don’t miss out on… the mountains around Vang Vieng. Lots of people neglect exploring these in favor of tubing the river. The river party scene in Vang Vieng is diminishing anyways.
• You know what’s overrated… Luang Prabang. In recent years, it’s become very touristy and a bit disingenuous. The nearby waterfalls are still cool though.
• The coolest hostel is… Vang Vieng Chill House . It encompasses all the things I love most about hostels: chilling and good vibes. It gets a little noisy sometimes but it’s a great place to meet people.
• The best food is found… on the streets! The street food in Laos is absolutely top-notch.

Backpacking Cambodia

The temples at Angkor Wat are an obvious draw for those backpacking Cambodia and are truly impressive. Cambodia is a country rich in culture, beautiful beaches and islands, the Mekong River Delta, and bustling markets.

The nation of Cambodia is a country still pulling out of an extremely dark, recent past. A staggering 1.5 – 3 million people were killed by the Khmer Rouge, led by tyrant Pol Pot. It happened only 35 – 40 years ago and is still very fresh and raw to the Cambodian people.

Despite the tragic history, the local Khmer people are some of the kindest humans in the world. The country is still recuperating, rebuilding, and moving forward, however, corruption is hindering its rehabilitation.

There is a strange energy in the air in Phnom Penh sometimes. It can be quite tense and stifling amongst the humidity. It’s as if everyone is waiting for the other shoe to drop and for chaos to return.

This is a country that makes you think about how lucky you were to be born into a country of peace. And I think that it’s important amongst the wild nights partying in Cambodia that you pause and really learn something from the lands you’re travelling in.

Cambodia is one of my favourite Southeast Asian destinations to travel to; I loved it so much that I ended up overstaying my visa. From the awesome hostels , cheap prices, and epic off-the-beaten-track travels, Cambodia seriously has it all. See it for yourself and you’ll fall in love too.

What to Know Before Visiting Cambodia

• Don’t miss out on… the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng. One of the most sobering places in Southeast Asia and a refreshing change of pace.
• Keep an eye out for… temples other than Angkor Wat. Cambodia is full of Khmer ruins, like Koh Ker. You can spend days getting lost in the ruins of an empire past.
• The coolest hostel is… Yellow Star Hostel . It’s the kind of place you extend your stay for as long as your Cambodia itinerary allows.
• The best food is found in… the outdoor food market in Siem Reap. Most of the backpacker accommodation is conveniently located around here so it’s simply a matter of walking down and gorging yourself silly!

Backpacking Myanmar

Oh, Myanmar. For a few years between roughly 2011 and 2019, backpacking in Myanmar really took off as the country instituted democratic reforms and started to open up to the world. There was even a fear that in opening up to the world too quickly, Myanmar would lose some of its authenticity and charm.

I want to stress that I love Myanmar. I love the country and I love the people. I travelled there through some of the remote Northern regions. I caught the dilapidated trains, hitchhiked with monks, and even publically pooped my pants on a public bus after some dodgy food.

The temples are second to none, the food is cheap and delicious, and the countryside is beautiful .

But, the seeds of what has happened to Myanmar had been sown many years before. You can trace the military take over and crackdown back to the consequences of British rule back in Imperial times. There was a lot of tension during the decolonial period too with the government shirking a lot of international aid and joining any international forums.

This isolationism was intensified with the first military coup of the 1960s. This was the same military that was loosening the reigns during the 2010s that allowed a few of us to explore what truly is one of my favourite countries on the planet.

The tensions with the various ethnic groups on the borders never went away though. And neither did the military. As of early 2021, Aung San Suu Kyi (the former democratic leader) has been imprisoned and political dissenters shot and jailed as the military clamps down on control again.

I couldn’t in good conscience advise anyone to go backpacking in Myanmar at this time. But I don’t want to strike this country off the map entirely. The people deserve better than that.

It’s probably not the place of a travel guide to tell you to support democratic movements – especially not ones that are as flawed as Aung San Suu Kyi’s – but I think it’s fair to say that the moment it’s safe. Go backpacking Myanmar!

February 2023 Update : In the past few months, Myanmar has reopened its e-visa program and is officially “open for tourism.” Many travellers have reported successful and problem free trips, BUT it’s still important to proceed with extreme caution. Though the political situation has stabilized, there is the chance of getting stuck in the country.

What to Know Before Visiting Myanmar

• Don’t miss out on… Bagan. There are touristy spots in Bagan, however, the scope of the area is immense. Riding an e-bike to a secret place and setting up for sunset is the way to go. There are so many side roads and off the beaten path ruins here that you’ll find something special.
• You know what’s overrated… Inle Lake. Super beautiful, super touristy, and super expensive. Visit, then shoot through for some of the mad trekking in the nearby regions.
• The coolest hostel is… Ostello Bello . These guys are a solidly run hostel chain that will have your back and provide a place of comfort while travelling Myanmar.
• The best food is found in… Mandalay. I actually love staying in Mandalay , and the aromas drifting from the nighttime street food market is a big reason why! It’s a big city so there’s a lot

Backpacking Malaysia

I absolutely LOVE backpacking in Malaysia. Somehow, Malaysia has managed to stay below the radar of many travellers on the Southeast Asia backpacking circuit. To write off Malaysia as uninteresting would be a mistake: Malaysia should be your next backpacking destination!

For one, I found Malaysia to have some of the lowest prices in all of Southeast Asia. The country is extremely clean, the roads are in great shape, and the people speak decent English. Malaysia is also a majority Muslim country, which I found to be an interesting contrast to the Buddhist majorities of the countries to the north.

Tioman Island is one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets. Getting your PADI open water certificate is cheaper on Tioman than anywhere in Thailand. Also, diving is better – in my opinion. The coral reefs are not experiencing the same level of bleaching as they are in Thailand. I saw plenty of turtles, sharks, and more vibrant reef systems generally.

Malaysia is also home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests at Taman Negara . So alongside some of the most vibrant and developed cities in Asia are some of Asia’s most wild and unruly jungles! And, if that wasn’t enough, Malaysian food is seriously delicious.

Then there is Malaysian Borneo . Parts of Borneo are surprisingly well developed. That said, there are giant swaths of the island that are still wild and teaming with rhinoceros, orangutans, and other rare wildlife. The trekking here is of the old school, beat your way through the jungle variety! Malaysia has incredible adventure opportunities for those willing to get well off the beaten path!

What to Know Before Visiting Malaysia

• Don’t miss out on… Borneo. It’s such an overlooked destination but there’s so much cool stuff going on here. Get a tattoo in Kuching!
• Look out for… hidden speakeasies in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. They’re VERY well disguised, and absolutely worth it! Being an Islamic country, it’s harder to get alcohol here but where there’s a will there’s a way.
• The coolest hostel is… Best Attitude Hostel Cenang . This hostel has great social events running all the time – even if the karaoke makes me cringe!
• The best food is found in… Penang. Whilst ALL the food in Malaysia is good, Penang takes top honors. Seriously, those soups had me in a proper food coma.

Backpacking Singapore

Singapore is the smallest country to make our list. This tropical island city-state nation might be a blip on the map, but it is a regional economic and cultural powerhouse.

Backpacking Singapore has the reputation of being an expensive place to visit in Southeast Asia. Whilst Singapore is certainly more expensive when compared to its relatively cheap neighbours, there is still plenty to do for backpackers on a budget.

Some of the best street food in the world can be found amongst the food stalls of various markets. Singapore is a multi-cultural melting pot, so it is possible to taste the influences of many different cultures in a single dish. Rub elbows with locals and chow down on some epically delicious cheap eats.

Visit Chinatown , explore Arab Street , and be sure to grab a curry in Little India . Just based on the neighbourhood names alone, you can gather that many ethnic groups are represented across this city-country.

If you are visiting Singapore for longer, be sure to check out the nature reserves surrounding the city. Few people realize that just outside of Singapore’s urban centres there are some great day hikes to be had in the surrounding jungle. There’s also plenty of local life to be experienced beyond the neon landscape.

Singapore is a city that has something for every backpacker. Whether you are just passing through or coming specifically to backpack Singapore, you can be sure that there is always something awesome (and tasty) to get into here. It’s wildly different to other countries within the region, and yet there are glimmers of something similar. You’re sure to love it!

What to Know Before Visiting Singapore

• Don’t miss out on… the hawker centres (cafeterias). When you’re in Singapore, you EAT. The food is incredible.
• You know what’s overrated… Sentosa Island – it’s just Disney World with a fake beach. And you know what’s worse than hoardes of people? Paying to be around hoardes of people.
• The coolest hostel is… The Bohemian . This colourful little corner of Singapore makes my heart sing… apore.
• The best food is found in… Maxwell Food Centre. This is the most famous hawker centre in Singapore. In fact, the world’s cheapest Michelin-star restaurant is here! But aside from that, there are countless delicious options. There’s little wonder I ended up a couple of kilos heavier after backpacking in Singapore!

Backpacking Indonesia

As a vast archipelago nation composed of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. The country is so big and so spread out that exploring it can feel overwhelming.

Backpacking Indonesia is an adventure like no other. For starters, you can climb active volcanoes, encounter orangutans in the jungle, visit ancient temples, and enjoy spectacular diving.

All along the way, you’ll be welcomed in by some of the most friendly people out there while you enjoy the varied and delicious cuisine. Best of all, you can easily backpack Indonesia on a budget.

Bali is definitely the backpacker magnet of Indonesia and for good reason. Along with a blossoming digital nomad scene and tons of epic places to see, Bali is also surf and party central. If you are wanting to become a yoga teacher, there are countless programs being offered all across the island.

It’s worth staying in Bali for some time, but be sure to visit some of the other islands as well. Though fun, I would argue that Bali is not at all what the rest of Indonesia feels like. The country is jam-packed with off the beaten path exploration potential.

17,000 islands bro! Get yourself out there and explore some of them and you will quickly fall in love with this massive island nation. Because the real Indonesia is well outside of Bali.

The streets of Jakarta are a hot mess of traffic and street food contrasted with towering skyscrapers. The outer islands are deserted. There are jungles and villages as much as there are modern cities.

What to Know Before Visiting Indonesia

• Don’t miss out on… island hopping. Backpacking Nusa Penida , Derawan, the Kai Islands, Wakatobi; these are some of the best, but there are many more to see.
• You know what’s overrated… Kuta, Bali. Avoid it like the plague. Drunk Australians and piles of garbage. Plus, the tourists have made many of the locals suspicious of travellers. Not a vibe.
• The coolest hostel is… Tribal Hostel . Super cool, open and tropical, you won’t find a better place to stay than Tribal. In the quiet area of Pererenan Bali, and with a huge coworking space, Tribal has it all!
• The best food is found in… Jakarta. This city takes satay to a whole new level. Be sure to try as many satay sticks as possible – and Nasi Goreng, of course.

Backpacking The Philippines

Cheap beer, beautiful beaches, adrenaline-pumping activities, and some of the most friendly, genuine, people in all of Asia; the Philippines truly captured my heart. I made some incredible friends in the Philippines and I have to say, it is one of the easiest countries in the world to travel around as the locals are so friendly.

Getting around the Philippines as a backpacker and finding a sweet and cheap place to stay (and a sweet and cheap thing to eat) is breezy.

There are thousands of islands to choose from. This translates into EPIC scuba diving, a great place to learn to snorkel and to go fishing. If you have never learned to spearfish , you should absolutely give it a go. Spearfishing doesn’t get much better than in the Philippines where the visibility is insanely good!

If you love trekking like me, then you will be pleased to find some epic hiking opportunities in the Philippines. Caves, rivers, mountains, you name it, one can find all the outdoor playgrounds here. There are heaps of adventure opportunities in The Philippines if you’re equipped for the job!

There are endless trekking options in the Philippines: remote hill hikes and active volcanoes, gentle strolls, and multi-day backpacking trips. Some popular treks include  Cordillera and its rice terraces and trekking Mt. Pulag .

Not too far from here you can reach Sagada (and my saucy Sagada travel guide ) and hike in the hills. Bohol and the Chocolate Hills are a great place to trek as well. The Philippines is home to 25 active volcanoes that can be climbed to the summit!

If you’re a fan of a party then you’re in the right place as festivals in The Philippines are some of the most lively events you can experience as a traveler, and a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the culture of such a diverse country.

What to Know Before Visiting the Philippines

• Don’t miss out on… El Nido. It’s utter paradise, the stuff of dreams and legends. Stay here forever if you can.
• Look out for… crowds at Baguio. It’s becoming one of the most popular places in The Philippines; let’s hope it doesn’t become TOO popular.
• The coolest hostel is… Mad Monkey Hostel Siargo . The MM chain is somewhat legendary – but this one is my favourite.
• The best food is found in …hard to say, really – there’s just so much diversity when it comes to Filipino food . Suckling pig in Cebu, empanadas in Ilocos, bulalo in Tagaytay; nothing really beats adobo  made by a local grandma though.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Southeast Asia

Once you have your boots on the ground, the Southeast Asia backpackers circuit will be as obvious as the stars in the night sky. Backpackers generally don’t venture too far off of the so-called Banana Pancake trail.

That said, if you are a keen and adventurous type, there are many parts of Southeast Asia that are untouched by backpackers to this day. Many regions are very wild and make for endless exploration opportunities.

Additionally, there are islands in Southeast Asia (think Indonesia) that are so damned remote, few westerners have ever been to them. Have fun on the Banana Pancake Trail, but don’t forget to dip out once in a while to truly explore.

For starters, I’d suggest trekking in Borneo or taking a long motorbike excursion to the Vietnam-China border. These are two wildly different types of adventure, but they hint at the wild times you can forge for yourself if you avoid other tourists like the plague.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Southeast Asia is an adventure playground. It is a backpacker paradise and a place teeming with awesome budget adventures. There will certainly never be a day where you are bored for lack of things to do in Southeast Asia. Let’s dive in and take a look at some of the radical adventures that await you in Southeast Asia…

1. Jungle Trekking

There is some great jungle trekking in Northern Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam… Hell, in every country in Southeast Asia, really! If you choose to go trekking make sure to go on a multi-day hike. Personally, I prefer trekking in Laos, and I had an epic experience in Myanmar back when it was safe to travel through.

I would love to explore more of the remote corners of Indonesia and Borneo too – the options to go jungle trekking in Southeast Asia are really limitless!

2. Scuba Diving

Many backpackers fall in love with scuba diving whilst in Southeast Asia. Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia offer incredible diving opportunities in crystal clear waters with abundant marine life and plenty of wrecks for the underwater adventurer. The cheapest place to learn is the island of Kao Tao in Thailand and the islands in Malaysia.

If you’re not up to learning to dive, you can always learn to snorkel too. But with the affordable prices of Asia combined with the excellent visibility, you can’t really go wrong!

3. Motorcycle in Southeast Asia

Perhaps there is no better way to explore a country than by motorbike . You’re truly free to design your own itinerary and take every side alley that takes your fancy.

Plus, you become part of the landscape when you’re riding. There aren’t windows of a bus separating you from the buffalo or the mountain.

But there also isn’t much of anything to protect you if you fall off. So I’d suggest wearing proper riding gear and having insurance. That way, you’re free to enjoy the jungle roads, the epic peaks, and the offbeat camping destinations that Southeast Asia has to offer with some peace of mind.

4. Learn To Cook

Love the hell out of Southeast Asian cuisine? Me too!

Taking a cooking class whilst visiting a Southeast Asian country will supercharge your cooking skills. You will be preparing delicious meals for years down the line that remind you of the good ol’ days backpacking Southeast Asia.

Each country is full of such diverse dishes, too. You could pick up a nasi goreng recipe down in Indonesia which would stand completely apart from a classic Thai green curry, or a delectable set of Vietnamese rice paper rolls.

5. Chase Waterfalls

Don’t go chasing waterfalls… What nonsense! In every country in Southeast Asia, you will stumble upon waterfalls, epic waterfalls. Each will be more impressive than the last and will have you dreaming of turquoise waters for years to come.

6. Go Caving

Southeast Asia is home to some truly impressive cave systems. If you have the chance, you must explore some of them! There is the world’s largest cave in Vietnam, but many of the smaller caves throughout the region are equally as epic and more accessible. Over in the Phillippines, you can even try your hand at cave diving – that shit’s UNREAL!

7. It’s Street Food O’Clock

Love trying new things? There is something delicious, tasty, and bizarre to put in your mouth around every turn.

I hope the words “no, I don’t think I want to try that” never come out of your mouth. You will find food that makes you cry tears of joy. There will be times when your entire mouth becomes a burning pit of hell. And there will be magical moments where it’s a bit of both.

Each country brings something unique to the table for you to sink your teeth into – literally. So you’ve got no choice but to start munching your way through street carts!

(Exceptions are granted only if the food in question is an endangered or protected animal.)

8. Go climbing

Southeast Asia is full of karst mountains, which rise like pillars and towers from the ground. For the casual tourist, these spires make great photos. For climbers though, these are the stuff of dreams.

Visit Railay, Cat Ba, and Kuala Lumpur for some grade-A routes.

9. Island hopping

The Philippines has over 7,100 islands; Indonesia has 17,000. Combine these with all the other random islands scattered throughout Southeast Asia and you have a shit ton of islands to live out your Robinson Crusoe adventures. Better get started now – it’s going to take a while to visit them all.

If you get really addicted to island life, you may want to try boat life . That way you can perpetually traverse the best of Southeast Asia’s islands and beyond…

10. Stay in a Coworking Hostel

More and more backpackers are looking to turn their travels into a full time way of life… the best way to get inspired is to meet and brainstorm with other aspiring entrepreneurs and digital nomads, check out Tribal Hostel in Bali to find ideas, support and new friends 🙂

Psssst…. Searching for your Tribe?

Tribal Hostel – Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!

Come on down and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi and a game of pool 😉

The most common place to stay while backpacking Southeast Asia is, of course, hostels. They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and can be a helluva a lot of fun.

Never stayed in a hostel before? You’re in luck! Southeast Asia is the best place to learn how to live the hostel life .

Southeast Asia has some of the most well-known and well-regarded hostels in the world, which would impress even the most seasoned backpacker. There’s a real mix of cheap places to stay, too. There are the classic party hubs where to beer never stops flowing. But there are some really chill places where it’s more likely that everyone is sitting around smoking a joint while swapping travel stories.

If you’re going to be hitting the Banana Pancake Trail hard and for several months, you’ll want to pack the right stuff with you. We all know that guy who steals towels from hostels and takes them wherever he goes; don’t be that guy.

Whilst it’s easier to find hostels in the well-trafficked parts of Southeast Asia, there are some real gems just slightly off the beaten path. One of the best hostels I ever stayed in was in the middle of nowhere Northern Vietnam.

As is always the case, camping would be the ultimate way to save cash while backpacking. Just make sure you take a good tent with you and do your best to check your site – there are some really dangerous snakes and crazy, heavy rain out there in the remote, jungle areas.

There is really never a need to stay in a hotel while backpacking Southeast Asia. If you need a private space, book an airbnb or find a local guesthouse instead. Because it’s Asia, it won’t be very expensive and might be just what you need to recharge yourself.

• Where to Stay in Vietnam
• Where to Stay in Thailand
• Where to Stay in Malaysia
• Where to Stay in the Philippines
• Where to Stay in Singapore
• Where to Stay in Cambodia

Southeast Asia is the Mecca for cheap places to travel broke . Nowhere else on earth can you drink beer, find accommodation, and eat out every day easily for under $10 USD .

To give you an idea of the cost of backpacking Southeast Asia, here are some examples of shoestring travel budgets:

• $20 – $30 / day: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia
• $25 – $35 / day: Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia
• $30 – $40 / day: Indonesia, Philippines

As you can see, some countries in Southeast Asia are more expensive than others. For example, the cost of a trip to Thailand  is not as dirt cheap as you might think, especially if you plan on just eating Western food.

Generally speaking, any of the islands you visit whilst backpacking Southeast Asia will be more expensive than the mainland. Also, Singapore kind of stands as its own thing – you can expect a much higher cost of travel there than the rest of Southeast Asia as it’s not catered to budget travellers.

Creating the right Southeast Asia budget for yourself is the key to a successful backpacking adventure. Travelling in Southeast Asia should never be super expensive. With a few budget travel hacks up your sleeve, you will save a ton of money and have the time of your life.

A Daily Budget in Southeast Asia

Here is a more in-depth breakdown of what you can expect to pay on a daily basis whilst backpacking Southeast Asia…

Budget Tips for Visiting Southeast Asia

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst travelling in Southeast Asia, I recommend sticking to these basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Camp : With plenty of untouched beaches, forests, stunning countryside, and far-flung jungle, Southeast Asia can be a great place to pitch a tent for the night. A solid sleep system saves you money and can help you get off of the beaten path.
• Eat street food : Southeast Asia has the BEST street food in the world. You can easily load up on just a few dollars. Night markets are iconic places to start from.
• Couchsurf: Southeast Asian locals are awesome, so get to know some! Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see a country from the perspective of locals. When using Couchsurfing, be sure to send personalized messages to your potential host – make yourself stand out!
• Haggle: Barter, negotiate, sit down for a tea, and philander hedonistically if necessary. A good haggling game is going to go a long way towards backpacking Southeast Asia on a budget.
• Hitchhike: This is just your friendly neighborhood reminder that hitchhiking is the best, and it saves you cash! But more than that, it launches you right into the thick of it and entices adventures to come out of their hidey-holes.
• Leave “The Bubble”: Staying in the tourist bubbles always gets more expensive. Remember to leave the bubble and live the local life for truly cheap Southeast Asia travel.

Why Should You Travel to Southeast Asia with a Water Bottle?

Whilst there’s a lot that we can do when it comes to travelling responsibly , reducing your plastic consumption is one of the easiest and most impactful things you can do. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, don’t take plastic shopping bags, and forget straws. All of this just ends up in landfills or in the ocean.

One way you can minimise your plastic footprint is by investing in a premium filtered water bottle . That way, not only do you save money by not having to buy bottled water everywhere you go, but you aren’t contributing to the problem. You’re being part of the solution! And the turtles thank you!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Due to the great distances involved when we are talking about ALL of Southeast Asia, the weather can really vary.

The peak tourist season in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam is from November to February when the weather is beautiful across the region, but there’s a high chance you’ll run into a ton of tourists. The really popular guesthouses fill up fast.

The local people are a really friendly bunch and keen to help so if you have any problems don’t be afraid to ask for directions from the locals. It is best to avoid northern areas of Thailand from February to April as the burning season starts and mountains will slowly be covered in smoke.

When we are talking about Indonesia for example, keep in mind that Indonesia is WAY farther south and nearer to the equator. The weather in Indonesia can be loosely applied to Malaysia as well.

Generally speaking, there are 2 seasons in Indonesia – the dry season and the rainy season. In most parts of the country, the dry season lasts from May to September . Of course, this is also the most popular time to visit.

Consider visiting in either May or September if you want to try and avoid the massive summer crowd, especially in Bali. This way you can find cheaper accommodation which is difficult to find during peak season.

Most of the rain in Indonesia falls from October to April , with some regional variations. Those looking to do some serious trekking or diving may want to try and plan a trip in the dry season. There’s no need to let a little rain spoil your trip, though. Rain usually comes in quick downpours so just take a solid rain jacket; you’ll still get to enjoy several hours of sunlight.

Best Time to Visit – Country Breakdown

Best Months to Travel: November-February, March-September (Southeast Coast)

What’s the climate in Thailand like? 

Most of Thailand is dry and comfortable to visit from November-February. In March and April, the temps start to rise until they become horrible in June. The rains start in May.

The exception to this is the southeastern coast of Thailand (Koh Samui, Hat Yai, etc). The rains come a bit later here.

Best Months to Travel: November-April (North & South), February-July (Center)

What’s the climate in Vietnam like? 

Vietnam is a weird one: the North and South have similar rainy seasons, but the center’s is a bit later in the year. The absolute perfect time to visit the whole country would be in February and March.

Best Months to Travel: October-April

What’s the climate in Cambodia and Laos like? 

Pretty straightforward with only two distinct seasons: a wet one and a dry one.

In the wet summer season, downpours can washout dirt roads, and the heat can be OPPRESSIVE. Be prepared for lots of lazy days of doing nothing if traveling to Cambodia or Laos during the summer season.

Best Months to Travel: October-March

What’s the climate in Myanmar like? 

Typical Southeast Asia. The dry season in Myanmar actually runs until May but the temperatures at the end of the month are just WAY too much. June is unbearable to visit.

Visiting during March or October (shoulder months) are great times.

Best Months to Travel: November-February (West Coast), March-September (East Coast)

What’s the climate in Malaysia like? 

Pretty hot and humid all year round but each coast has opposing rainy seasons. Stick to one coast depending on when you’re visiting Malaysia.

Note the Cameron Highlands are temperate all year-round with a rainy season from September-December.

Best Months to Travel: May-September

What’s the climate in Indonesia like? 

In most of the country, the wet, hot season runs from October to April. Around May, the rains start to subside, temps drop, and tourists return. Visit Indonesia in May before prices go up.

Northern parts of Indonesia, like Maluku and Raja Ampat, experience the wet season in OPPOSITE months. October-April is the best time to visit these.

Best Months to Travel:  November-May

What’s the climate in the Philippines like? 

Not quite as hot as continental Southeast Asia, which makes travel in April and May more viable. But June-August should definitely be avoided – this is typhoon season and storms can very dangerous. Most ferries and resorts shut down during this time.

What to Pack for Southeast Asia

An adventure backpacking in Southeast Asia means navigating a certain level of chaos. If this is your first backpacking trip, or even if you’re a veteran, you gotta make sure you’re equipped for the job!

Make sure that packing list is spot on. For every adventure, there are a few things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Is Southeast Asia Safe? This is easily one of the most common questions I’m asked.

Every country on earth has a certain degree of crime and the associated shitty people. Southeast Asia is no different. Though violent attacks on backpackers are extremely rare, they can happen.

A common problem in Southeast Asian cities is the motorcycle bag snatch. Two dudes roll up on a motorbike and grab your purse or day bag and they ride off into the night (or day). I have heard reports of this gig being particularly rampant in the touristic areas of Phnom Penh.

Keep an eye on your stuff, especially when you are in the big cities and crowded bus stations. Be smart hiding your valuables and money when travelling and things will be chill. In general, Southeast Asia is one of the safest places in the world to go backpacking, so fear not!

Wear a helmet when you hop on a motorbike in Asia . Despite being an experienced driver, I’ve had a total of 3 crashes in Southeast Asia over the last 10 years. On the one occasion, I wasn’t wearing a helmet, I split my head open and had to go to the hospital. Your mum doesn’t want to get the call about your insides being on the outside…

To stay safe, every backpacker should follow the common-sense rules of safe backpacking .  In general, being out late, drunk, and alone is a recipe for trouble anywhere in the world.

If ever you run into the very rare hold-up situation, give them what they want and don’t resist. Your iPhone and wallet are never worth dying over, ever!

• Is Thailand Safe to Visit?
• Is Vietnam Safe to Visit?
• Is Cambodia Safe to Visit?
• Is Myanmar Safe to Visit?
• Is Indonesia Safe to Visit?
• Is Malaysia Safe to Visit?

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll in Southeast Asia

There’s a reason that those seeking something a little hedonistic oftentimes get stuck in Southeast Asia… You can buy ketamine from certain pharmacies and the acid seems to be ubiquitous amongst travellers. Many Southeast Asian countries have very harsh drug penalty laws though, and even without harsh laws, there are some truly crippling fines dished out.

Drugs on the road is pretty much a guaranteed experience – and in Southeast Asia more so than ever. There are the magic mushroom shakes popular in Thailand and Cambodia; there are the strong and freely available prescription meds too.

Plus, doobies are a staple of almost every hostel. So, if you’re gonna do the good stuff, then stay hydrated and watch out for ya mates!

What seems to go hand in hand with travelling even more so than drugs? Why, love and sex of course! But we don’t like to have frank and honest discussions about sex on the road out of fear we’ll be too judgemental – or not judgmental enough.

At the end of the day, love and sex will on the road is inevitable so we might as well have a conversation about it.

Remember that free love is about love as much as it is about sex. And I’d be dancing around the elephant in the room if I didn’t talk about how easy it is to engage with sex tourism in Asia.

Regardless of your beliefs and thoughts on prostitution, remember this is another person with thoughts, feelings, and a life outside of the sex industry too. You are not superior to these people; you just happen to be from a more privileged background.

Go to Asia and have the time of your life, do the things you’ve dreamed of – but be respectful along the way. Travelling the world makes you an ambassador for your country , which is awesome. We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with our countries…

Travel Insurance for Southeast Asia

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

As I said before Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are Southeast Asia’s two main international hubs. Most backpackers start their journeys visiting and staying in Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok for a spell. Budget flights throughout the region will almost certainly have you passing through one of those airports.

If you are looking to do the classic Southeast Asia Loop or the Banana Pancake Trail, then starting off by staying in Bangkok is the obvious choice. Flights into Vietnam through Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are getting increasingly less expensive as well, so keep an eye out if the prices keep falling.

Visas and Entry Requirements for Southeast Asian Countries

The biggest headache of travelling is getting a visa organised! The rules are subject to change at a moment’s notice and you never know what the land border will actually be like. All I can say is do your research, (politely) refuse to pay bribes that you don’t have to, and get organised in advance.

Luckily, most Southeast Asian countries have pretty straightforward visa requirements. Tourism is their bread and butter after all.

• Visa on arrival: Visa-free travel, 30 days for most countries.
• Extension: Yes, one-time, usually for 30 additional days, $60.
• Notes: Those arriving by land usually receive a 15-day visa-free waiver.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, but only for a small group of countries.
• Evisa: Yes, 30-day validity, $25, longer stays possible.
• Extension:  Yes, but you’ll need to leave the country and reapply for the evisa.
• Notes: Evisas are not valid at many border crossings.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30 days for most countries, $37.
• Evisa: Yes, same price and length as visa-on-arrival.
• Extension: Yes, one-time, usually for 30 additional days, $48.
• Notes: If crossing from Laos or Thailand, visas will cost more if you pay in baht or kip.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30-day validity, $35.
• Evisa: Yes, 30-days, price varies
• Extension: Yes, $2/day, filed in Vientiane .
• Notes:  The evisa is inconvenient, most travelers may opt for visa-on-arrivals.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 90-day validity, no charge.
• Extension: Possible at embassy.
• Notes: Malaysia is very easy to enter but takes overstays very seriously.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, between 30-90 days, free.
• Extension: Possible to file online.
• Notes: Like Malaysia – easy to get in, just don’t overstay.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30-day validty for most nations, $35.
• Extension: Only available to those with visa-on-arrival or prearranged visa.
• Notes: Foerginers can enter Indonesia on a visa-waiver program for free but they will not be able to extend stay. Some ports of entry require prearranged visa.
• Visa on arrival: Visa-waiver (30-day validity) or visa-on-arrival (59-day validity) available.
• Extension: Possible for those with visa-on-arrival.
• Notes:  You will need proof of an outbound flight to enter the Philippines.

The most popular and rewarding way of independent travel in Southeast Asia is to rent or buy a motorbike. It also helps if you can rent for longer periods of time. Most shops in Bali charge around $5 a day for a motorbike, but I was able to rent one for only $50 a month!

With a full tank of gas costing only around $1, you can cover a lot of ground without burning a hole in your wallet if you’ve got a long-term motorbike rental. Pair this with a proper motorcycle tent , and you’ll hardly ever spend a dime!

Common Types of Transport in Southeast Asia

You can easily buy a bike in Thailand or Vietnam (or anywhere really) and then pass it on to a local or fellow traveller when your time backpacking Southeast Asia is through. Don’t buy the first piece of shit bike you come across!

If possible, try to get the bike checked out by someone who knows bikes. It would be a shame to buy a bike just to have it break down the next day. Again, always wear a fucking helmet!

Taking local buses and trains (when possible) is the most economical way of getting around. Sometimes, this will mean rocking up at the bus or train station and sussing out a ticket, but it’s getting easier than ever to sort your journeys in advance.

Bookaway is an epic online booking platform where you can book bus, train, and ferry tickets in advance for a nominal fee – this is way better than rocking up at the bus or train station and hoping you can get a ticket – because sometimes you can’t.

One can find budget flights in Southeast Asia, but these flights and taking ferry boats to the islands add up. So pick and choose where you want to go and budget accordingly.

For short distances,  tuk-tuks are your best bet just keep an eye on your shit and keep your wits about you when in a tuk-tuk . Luckily, Grab (similar to Uber) is now readily available in several countries in the region, including Thailand!

Grab is hands down the best way to get around cities, the price is locked in on the app so you can’t get ripped off, AND it will always work out cheaper than travelling by taxi or rickshaw.

Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia

Hitchhiking should not prove to be too difficult and in some countries, it is fairly easy to get picked up. You have to be persistent and make sure the locals understand where you need to go or you will end up getting dropped at a bus station.

Some locals decide to turn their car into a taxi cab the minute they spot a foreigner on the highway. I would never assume that the ride is free initially. Always ask to avoid having an awkward scenario in which the driver who picked you up is demanding an unexpected fee.

Due to the large number of backpackers riding motorbikes across Southeast Asia, it is possible to score a ride with some fellow travellers. Generally, hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though you still have to be smart and use good judgment.

Onwards Travel from Southeast Asia

Whether you are heading home or carrying on travelling, budget international flights are your best bet. Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur is where you will find the lowest prices.

India and South Asia may beckon the vagabond to continue their travels. Or, Australia and New Zealand might get the backpacker to settle down in a sense and get a backpacking job .

Many backpackers pop over to Australia or New Zealand for 6 months to a year on a working holiday visa, make some cash, and come right back to Southeast Asia for their second round of backpacking escapades.

• Backpacking Australia
• Backpacking New Zealand
• Backpacking Fiji
• Backpacking Oceania

Working in Southeast Asia is certainly popular – though not especially lucrative. Scoring a gig as an ex-pat of some kind is always great, but most backpackers won’t fall into that category. Since work visas are sometimes difficult to get, a lot of the work ends up being done under the table.

That’s not to say it’s all dodgy run businesses, of course. There are a surprising amount of opportunities for backpackers to find work in Asia, but don’t expect to make a lot of money. You’re here for the lifestyle and experience, not the cash.

Popular jobs include dive instructor, English teacher, or some kind of hospitality. How easy it is to get a job will depend on the country. But a more popular way of making money while on the road in Asia is to work as a freelancer or digital nomad – this is where Asia truly shines.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

The Digital Nomad Scene in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is THE most popular place for digital nomads to base themselves (based on recent digital nomad stats ). Places like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Bali are thriving nomad hubs that attract people from all over the world. Kuala Lumpur and many large Vietnamese cities are quickly following suit.

Southeast Asia is a paradise for remote workers for many reasons:

• The cost of living is very low.
• Internet is ubiquitous and reliable.
• Expat communities are strong.
• Local economies are booming.
• Visas relatively easy to organize.
• Conferences and events are frequently organized.
• There’s a lot to do in your free time.

If you’re a digital nomad or someone who wants to give the lifestyle a try, you can’t go wrong living in Southeast Asia.

Teaching English in Southeast Asia

For another way of living or extending your trip to Southeast Asia, people have been teaching English abroad for a long time. Though you won’t always need one, having a TEFL certificate will increase your chances of scoring a gig.

We suggest using MyTEFL to get accredited. Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50 ).

I think that working as an English teacher does give you a deeper appreciation of the country that you’re travelling in. You spend time fostering connections to a place and you are, ultimately, teaching people a skill that will carry them far in life.

Volunteering in Southeast Asia

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in Southeast Asia including teaching, construction, agriculture, and pretty much anything.

There are so many different volunteer opportunities in Southeast Asia to suit any skill set. You could support communities doing social work in Vietnam, help out on farms in Thailand, teach English in Cambodia, or volunteer in a hostel in Laos.

Other opportunities include bartending, doing community work, and web development. Short-term volunteers should apply for a tourist visa before arriving, but you’ll need the appropriate permits to stay longer depending on what country you’re in. 

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are great places to start looking for volunteer work – but it doesn’t cover you for everything . Always tread with extra caution, especially if you’re working with kids or animals.

Ask the average Joe what they know about the history of Southeast Asia and most will be able to think as far back as the Vietnam War, maybe the Japanese occupation of Thailand. Beyond that, Southeast Asia is kind of a mystery.

But the history of Southeast Asia is long, complex, varied, and extremely fascinating. Before the Europeans arrived – the French in Vietnam, English in Burma, and Dutch in Indonesia – there were great kingdoms: the Toungoo, Khmer, and Malaca Sultanate, to name a few. Through these channels, Buddhism, Islam, trade, and science all flowed.

It is quite difficult to talk about “Southeast Asian Culture” because it would be a generalization; there are just so many different aspects.

What travellers SHOULD know about Southeast Asia is that it is, in fact, way deeper than it seems. Thanks to a long history of colonization that dates back before the Europeans – Indians, Arabs, and the East Asians all settled in SE Asia – the region is enormously diverse. Food, religion, politics, customs, all of the things that SE Asia does so well, come in part from external sources.

Of course, the colours of people’s personalities also change from country to country. Thais are legendarily nice (and open to just about anything). Malaysians are incredibly diverse ethnically and thus incredibly tolerable. Cambodians are the most laidback people in Southeast Asia by far. All of these traits become more obvious as you spend time in each country.

Don’t stay on the established Southeast Asian backpacking route if you want to get to know the locals. Koh San Road, Hanoi’s Beer Street, Kuta, and all the other tourist hotspots are poor representations of the culture.

The real Southeast Asia is found at the plastic tables on the street, inside the bike repair shops, and in the dusty corners of the region.

There are people who go backpacking in Southeast Asia just for the food. And for good reason, too: it’s fantastic! More than just delicious, it’s also cheap and hugely varied depending on where you are.

You can definitely expect a lot of rice, noodles, and curry in Southeast Asia. Luckily though, no two of these are ever the same. For example, noodles in Vietnam are traditionally served in broth ( pho being the most famous). Thailand, on the other hand, usually prefers dry noodles.

This is just the tip of the gastronomic iceberg that is food in Southeast Asia. And honestly, it’s really difficult to lump everything into one category. I will simply say that countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand consistently rank among the most delicious in the world, every year.

Because of its tropical climate, the fruit in Southeast Asia is also ridiculously good. Borneo is practically the Garden of Eden where just about everything grows, and the local markets in all the major cities have incredible selections to choose from. Be prepared to eat lots of fruit on your backpacking trip, especially bananas when served with pancakes.

I definitely recommend eating at the local markets and street food stalls. The prices are super low and the food is just as good as anything you’d find in a restaurant. Just keep on an eye out for sanitation – make sure the food is fresh and things look clean (enough).

Food to Try in Southeast Asia

There are some dishes you simply HAVE to try when you go to Southeast Asia:

• Banh Mi Thit (Vietnam) – The best sandwich in Asia.
• Pho (Vietnam) – Noodles served in broth w/ extras.
• Pad Thai (Thailand) – Dry noodles w/ peanut sauce and chilis.
• Tom Yung Goong (Thailand) – Soup made with lemongrass, herbs, and shrimp.
• Satay (Malaysia, Indonesia) – Grilled meat skewers.
• Fish Amok (Cambodia) – Spicy fish coconut curry served in a banana leaf
• Burmese Curry (Myanmar) – Local take on the dish that is famously good.
• Shan-style noodles (Myanmar) – Thin-sliced, flat noodles.
• Nasi Goreng (Indonesia) – Fried rice.
• Chili crab (Singapore) – Singapore’s claim to fame.
• Larb/Laap (Laos, Cambodia) – Beef salad with lots of seasoning.
• Tam Mak Houng (Laos) – Spicy green papaya salad.

Southeast Asia is a fantastic budget destination that is great for your everyday travels, but it’s also amazing because it allows you to splurge on some truly unique experiences.

You can go surfing, sky diving, bungee jumping, or any number of exciting things! But there are two big-ticket items that grabbed my heart more than any other: trekking and SCUBA diving .

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Southeast Asia

Each country in Southeast Asia offers up trekking experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Whether you prefer guided or independent trekking, there is ample hiking on hand for every backpacker to enjoy. Pack yourself the right adventure gear , and go do something crazy!

• Taman Negara, Malaysia : Explore the oldest rainforest in the world and spend the night in a bungalow in the jungle (for free).
• Kibungan Circuit, The Philippines: A 3-mountain circuit in the town of Kibungan in Benguet . The circuit, which takes anywhere from 2 to 3 days to complete, spans across the mountains of Tagpaya , Oten , and Tagpew .
• Shan State, Myanmar : Shan state is a popular place to go trekking and there are some great hikes around Kachin state as well. You will likely encounter no other travelers whilst trekking here.
• Phongsali, Laos : If you want to get off-the-grid and go trekking in Laos, I recommend making the long journey to the northern town of Phongsali . Though tough to reach, it’s equally rewarding for trekkers. While there isn’t much to do in the actual town, there are plenty of opportunities to visit remote hill tribes through the Provincial Tourism Office.
• Ring of Fire, Indonesia: While the beautiful beaches in Indonesia may be the major draw for tourists, there are also plenty of opportunities for adventures on land. Located in the Ring of Fire, Indonesia is home to well over 100 volcanoes. Trekking to the summit of some of these volcanoes is one experience you won’t want to miss when backpacking Indonesia. In addition to the aforementioned Mt. Bromo  and  Mt. Rinjani , you can also scale  Mt. Agung on Bali or  Mt. Egon on Flores .

Scuba Diving in Southeast Asia

If you have been paying attention, you should be aware now that Southeast Asia is fucking paradise when it comes to scuba diving. Without a doubt, Southeast Asia is the cheapest place in the world to become a certified diver. That fact coupled with some of the best dive sites in the world make scuba diving a no-brainer whilst you are backpacking Southeast Asia.

If you want to go diving in Thailand, go for it! Though I must reinforce how great diving is in Malaysia and Indonesia. The reef systems are in better shape and you won’t have to contend with quite so many tourists. Bali has loads of diving sites , and that’s just the start of the underwater sightseeing.

And if you aren’t up to learning to SCUBA, then you can always learn to freedive or snorkel. There is truly a whole other world waiting to be discovered once you leave the surface!

You’ve got questions about Southeast Asia and we’ve got answers!

Is backpacking in Southeast Asia safe?

Yes. Violent crime against tourists is very low in this part of the world – and even petty theft isn’t that common. That being said, you should still watch out for your valuables in very touristy areas. The thing to watch out for here is food/water bugs that can really knock your health back.

Where can I backpack in Southeast Asia?

Currently, all countries in Southeast Asia are open for backpackers, though Myanmar is still (sadly) risky to visit.

How long do you need to backpack Southeast Asia?

A backpacker could get a good idea of the region by spending 3 – 6 months there. Really, you could spend a lifetime exploring Southeast Asia and still have oodles left to explore. But this is enough time to explore a heap of places without feeling too rushed.

How much does it cost to backpack Southeast Asia for 6 months?

Southeast Asia is a blessing to broke backpackers. You can live comfortably here on $10 a day and splurge every so often on unique experiences. Including flights, insurance, and wiggle room within your budget, 6 months in Southeast Asia should cost between $5000 – $10 000.

What’s the best country to backpack in Southeast Asia?

This is a contentious question! My personal favourite is Vietnam simply because their food is my favourite. Aside from that, it’s cheap, full of epic motorbike adventures, and deadly rice wine!

Be good to Southeast Asia. It’s an incredible region that truly does have a little bit of something for everyone – all while being super cheap. We risk ruining a place when we don’t appreciate how special it is, and Asia is pretty freaking special.

Whether you stop by just one of its countries for a short SCUBA diving trip, or whether you get lost on the banana pancake trail for a year or so, you know you’re in for a good time. There are rice paddies, ancient temples, piles of spicy noodles, and some of the friendliest faces in the world waiting for you here.

Now, I hope I’ve been a source of inspiration in this guide but I also hope you’re ready to forge your own path through this great region. Because there are so many offbeat adventures and epic trekking to be done – you don’t need to get lost in the endless supply of cheap beer.

So off you go, you broke backpacker! I hope to see you deep in the Malaysian jungle or ordering your fifth banh mi of the week in Vietnam. Whatever you choose to do in Southeast Asia, it’s sure to be an adventure.

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Updated February 2023

Will Hatton

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40 Comments

Hi! Me and a friend of mine are planning on backpacking in Asia from start of April to beginning of July. The only problem is, we are scared it is going to be too hot and humid. We are both from norway and not really used to super high temeratures, so my question is basically: what route can we take, without dying from the extreme heat? It does not have to be in the southeast of asia, but more asia in general. Love your website btw. Love from 20 year old adventurers and coldblooded girl.

Head to the islands, riversides and coastlines. If you are really struggling, follow the lead of locals and do things early morning and late evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Dress appropriately in layers that you easily remove. Keeping properly hydrated will also help you acclimatise .

Hi there, anyone who has read this brilliant article should definitely try out south east Asia, there are so many amazing experiences on offer. Me and my partner took six months off work a few years back and decided to go travelling around southeast Asia. We visited Vietnam first, then Laos then we discovered our new home – Thailand which is where we spent most of our time as we fell in love with the people, the culture and just the country in whole. We loved it so much that we decided to take the leap and move to the island of Koh Samui. We hope to one day be as travelled as the owners of this amazing blog. 10 out of 10 read!

This was amazing…leaving in 3 days for a year to SE Asia and this post nearly brought me to tears of joy with the emotions it generated. So excited about what is to come!

Superb blog

Will, thank You for the effort and time You invested in writing this informative and useful article about backpacking around southeast Asia. Also, I really appreciate the fact that through this article You inspire other people to travel on a budget, which is something that I also encourage 🙂 Keep up the great work!

Hi Will, thanks for the info! Two questions: Can one easily get through customs when you enter a country and stay for thirty days without having a return ticket back to the US and not knowing what country you will visit next? I bought a one way ticket from San Francisco to Singapore and going to make up my trip as I go over 6 months. 2nd question: Is it safe to leave your MacBook or other valuables in a hostel while you are at the beach? How do you protect your belongings when you want to go swimming and your stuff is on the beach. Thank you for your answers!

Hi Jamie, great to hear from you!

Regarding return tickets and immigration, every country and airline has a different policy on return and onward tickets. Yes, even your airline can refuse to fly you if they feel it’s a risk immigration at the other end may not allow you entry based on a one way ticket. Your best bet is to research throughly on forums and travel sites to see the experiences of others. There are some destinations that are well known for NOT allowing entry without an onward ticket, such as The Philippines. Other destinations may allow you entry with none, some may allow you to say you are leaving overland on an approximate date. It’s a calculated risk, onward ticket companies, expensive full refundable tickets and cheap throw away tickets are also options if you find yourself if a pinch.

Unfortunately its a fact of long term travel, eventually you will probably have stuff stolen, lost or broken, no matter how careful or diligent you are. Following are my golden rules for reducing the bad feels of such an experience as much as possible.

1. Back up your shit, regularly! Ultimately the data inside the device will prove far more valuable to you than the device itself. 2. Lock up your shit, don’t leave your stuff unattended in dorms or on the beach, keep your valuables on you if possible when travelling and lock things away while in accommodation. 3. If you have a bad vibe about a place or person, follow your feeling and use your common sense. 4. If you have expensive gear, insure it correctly, make sure you know where the receipts are before your trip. 5. If something happens, get a police report. 6. Don’t take anything travelling with you that you aren’t willing to have lost, stolen or trashed. Leave it at home. 7. When it’s gone, it’s gone. Theft can happen anywhere, don’t spend too long dwelling on the event or let it be a singularly defining experience of a destination.

Have a great trip!

Great blog, really good and usefull info in it. Thanks a lot.

I would so recommend getting vaccinations in the country once you arrive – we got them at medconsult clinic ( a british doctor based in Bangkok), saved a fortune compared to the UK for the exact same vaccine – got typhoid, japanese encephalitis and a hep b booster done.

Excellent information! Thanks for sharing.

I am really appreciative of this blog post. My boyfriend and I had been dreaming of backpacking SE Asia on a shoestring budget for some time now. He is Norwegian, and I am from the USA, but have been living with him in Oslo for the last three months. My visa extension was just denied, and he cannot get a visa for the US until January, so, we decided to push up our dreams and go backpacking and not be split up! We are starting in Bali, May 16th and I had NO idea where to go after that. I want to be adventurous and go where the wind blows, but also have some sort of a plan as we are on the smallest of budgets and HAVE to figure out how to make some money online, or find volunteer locations to house us. Anyway, this has helped me so much, as we are planning a 6 month trip right now, and are leaving in less than a month!

Thanks for dropping by! We hope that your backpacking trip in SE Asia is amazing!

What a long list of South East Asian countries to visit. The photos you used here just enticed me to add some of these places that I haven’t visited in my bucket list! I can’t wait!

Such amazing post!!

Thanks man!

Great post! I cannot wait to visit Asia next summer, my friend and I are looking for volunteering opportunities in Asia, we would like to know if it is possible and easy to find as we tavel around. We will really appreciate any kind of information about that.

If you’d like to find work as you travel through Southeast Asia, then try asking around English schools. Otherwise, Worldpackers is an excellent way to find work exchanges as well.

Thanks for the informative travel guide! My girlfriend and I are planning a trip to Thailand in June and were looking for something like this! We are planning on staying in Southeast Asia for a while, so we have plenty of time to do everything there is to do.

This may be the best travel article I have ever read and I have read a lot! Massive amount of useful information and I love that you added in the message about being respectful as a backpacker. I was actually warned in Japan by a young Belgian girl working at a hostel that drunk backpackers had a negative impact on her trip thru Vietnam. I’m on an 8 month trip thru Asia but do to some rookie mistakes will only have 3 weeks to get from Ha Tien, Vietnam to Singapore. Super disappointed not to have more time to explore Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia but your article gave me hope that I will at least see some amazing things along the mad dash. Thank you for all the time and effort!

Really glad you found this guide helpful and informative. Enjoy the rest of your trip!

I saw your Myanmar political situation post was made in February, do you know if there has been any change in government?

Just a little correction Will. Its “Lake Toba” not “Lake Tabo”. It`s in the 2nd paragraph below the Penang street art image. Anyway, if you guys planning on visiting West Sumatera, Sipora Island or Nias Island hit me up for some local tips.

Thanks for the correction, cheers!

Love his advice, thank you! Would you say it’s cheaper and better to do backpacking alone on a whim with rough idea of things to do rather than paying for a set tour prior to arriving? Some set tours are like 2500 excluding flights and I’m just wondering if it would be cheaper to get to Thailand, get a bike and then do any internal train bus journeys whenever I want.

Personally, I think paying for a tour in an ‘easy’ country like Thailand is a waste of money. Go with the flow, it’s probably the easiest region in the world to explore 🙂

Hi, Dig the site. Thanks for setting it up. My name is John. I’m from Texas. I’m currently in The Philippines. Looking for the best deal on a round trip ticket, from Manila to Cambodia, and back again . Any helpful hints?

Not a flight hacker or travel agent brother 😉

Wow @ Will – super extensive write up! Some of our friends just asked us for recommendations how to travel SE Asia. We send them your post together with our own experiences (which were much less exhaustive). 🙂

I see you mentioned that the hammock tent has been quite useful, though regards to safety, sleeping out in the open with your belongings. What exactly do you do with your pack and such? Also as a solo female traveler, would you still recommend this mode of accommodation?

Hammocking, and hammock tents, are an awesome way to sleep out as they don’t weigh as much as a traditional tent… However, I would not encourage sleeping out in a hammock EVERYWHERE – You need to pick your spot wisely, make sure it’s cool to camp there etc. I keep all my valuables in a daypack which acts as my pillow. My main pack I put under the hammock.

Truly an amazing post filled with so much information and more. Me and my boyfriend are planning to travel south east Asia for 7 weeks at the end of the year. You have given me so much information for us to digest and use. Thank you so much!

You are very welcome! Happy to be of service 🙂 Have an awesome time traveling in Southeast Asia!

Dude this was an epic write up and has gotten my partner and myself super excited to head off on our 6 month journey to South East Asia in October. Looks like Malaysia has now made the cut, and we are looking into adding The Philippines back on the agenda after getting some pretty mixed reviews. Wise words and sound advice, thanks again!

You are welcome! I’m glad you find it useful 😀

Great post!

I just came back from Thailand, Indonesia and Philippines, and I am 100% going back. Beautiful countries and each with their own unique cultures as well. I went for 40 days! Here’s a video of my travels:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osXq2N6e5aA&t=4s

I hope it inspires everyone to travel to these same places I did! 🙂

What a RAD article…thank you 🙂 I am about to embark on my first backpacking adventure around SEA and this was really helpful!

Great Post! Could get some very good information for my own worldtravel. Which country is your favorite one?

Myanmar and Thailand are my favourites…

As a seasoned spearfisher, I really need to put Asia on my agenda. I actually have a trip planned for the end of this year for Thailand and will definitely look into some fishing whilst I am there. I am only afraid of one thing. That I won’t want to return home!

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The best countries to travel to in Southeast Asia

From indonesia to malaysia, the must-visit destinations on this corner of the continent, article bookmarked.

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Southeast Asia is a blend of fascinating traditions and cultures, with some of the most incredible temples, palaces and natural sites on the planet.

This region is home to famed attractions, from Angkor Wat to Ha Long Bay, as well as a selection of sprawling cities – including Bangkok , Kuala Lumpur and Singapore – and miles of pristine coastlines around Indonesia and the Philippines.

And though places such as Bangkok and Singapore have seen high numbers of British tourists for decades, other destinations are starting to attract more people, from lesser-known Laos to the neighbouring backpacker favourite of Cambodia .

Whether you’re looking to throw yourself into exploring a city or hop around a handful of serene tropical islands, your options are pentiful in this corner of the world.

Below are Independent Travel’s  picks for the region’s best countries to visit on holiday; read on to start planning your next long-haul getaway.

Thailand has long been a tourist favourite for Brits, whether for travelling youngsters or business people. Its capital, Bangkok (known locally as Krung Thep) was the most visited city in the world for several years in a row before Covid and is just a short journey away from the ancient city of Ayutthaya .

With dozens of famous white-sand beaches around the country (such as Railay and Ko Phi Phi ), as well as several areas of natural beauty (one of the most unique being Khao Sok National Park) and dozens of temples and palaces, Thailand offers anyone visiting the country a diverse mix of sightseeing, city experiences and relaxation – not to mention the nation’s delicious cuisine.

Best time to visit Thailand

With a rainy season falling between July and October, the best time to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are higher (with average highs in the early 30s). May is usually a quieter time to visit, but the sunshine may be interrupted by short rain periods.

Vietnam’s various areas of natural beauty are among the most notable in the region. Ha Long Bay is the country’s most famous natural area, while the beaches of Phu Quoc and the Cham Islands offer equal beauty in different settings. Other natural attractions include the caves of Phong Nha and Hang Son Doong, the Marble Mountains and the sand dunes at Mui Ne.

As for cities, Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi and Da Nang are the best destinations for those who want to experience Vietnamese ‘hustle and bustle’ (Da Nang also has beach areas), while Hoi An is sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of Vietnam’ due to its canals and the well-preserved Ancient Town comprised of wooden Chinese shophouses and French colonial buildings.

Best time to visit Vietnam

April and September fall just before and after the high season in Vietnam and also offer less humidity and lower temperatures than at the peak of summer. With weather that can vary quite drastically across the country in different months, these should give the best weather across the board too.

Read more on Asia travel :

• Why you should visit Koh Samui now
• Can Cambodia become Southeast Asia’s sustainable travel capital?
• Celebrating Thailand’s Songkran festival in Chiang Mai

Singapore is a popular destination for British expats, with an estimated 50,000 living there. It’s a country that is almost unlike any other; its urban planning strategy has created a metropolis and enabled almost six million people to live in an area roughly half the size of London.

Despite its diminutive size, the country offers numerous attractions , from its Botanic Gardens (a Unesco world heritage site) and historical and art museums to the Gardens by the Bay , a nature park spanning 101 hectares, and a Universal Studios theme park. It also hosts a Formula 1 race, which takes place in September on the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

Best time to visit Singapore

Singapore has significant rainfall all year, although the country’s dry season falls between February and April, when humidity levels are also at their lowest. Specifically, February and September offer the lowest rainfall and humidity, with average highs of around 31C. September also falls in low season.

By far the largest country in Southeast Asia, Indonesia lies at the southern end of the region and consists of roughly 17,500 islands, including Sumatra and Bali. With so many islands, it’s no surprise that the archipelago contains some of the region’s most attractive areas. Bali in particular is a tourism hotspot, while many of the islands offer tropical rainforests, rugged terrain and even volcanoes (the country sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire and is prone to both eruptions and earthquakes).

Jakarta is the capital and largest city in the country and is located – along with the popular tourist town of Yogyakarta– on the island of Java. Idyllic locations include Lombok and the Raja Ampat islands; Bromo Tengger Semeru and Komodo National Parks offer unreal nature and wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Best time to visit Indonesia

The dry season usually runs from April to October, which is also when the country welcomes the most tourists. If you want to avoid crowds, May and June offer average highs of roughly 31C and over eight hours of sunshine per day.

Malaysia’s culture is an eclectic mix of European, Chinese, Indian and Malay influences, while the country itself is famous for its rainforest, beaches and the capital city of Kuala Lumpur , with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers being one of the country’s most iconic symbols.

Away from the capital, many tourists decide to visit the Malaysian part of Borneo – in the north of the island – where rainforest treks, wildlife viewing and relaxing on the beach are all possible. The Perhentian Islands and Sipadan are two other popular destinations, while nature-lovers flock to the Batu Caves, Mount Kinabalu and the Cameron Highlands.

Best time to visit Malaysia

You can expect fewer crowds from March to June; these months have average temperatures of around 28C, while June is the driest month of the year (though bear in mind you can still expect showers every month).

Philippines

Another archipelago, the Philippines consists of more than 7,000 islands. Under Spanish rule for over 300 years, it is one of the only predominantly Roman Catholic countries in the whole continent and has been widely influenced by Western culture and traditions. For those keen to see its cities, Manila is the capital while Quezon is the largest.

Tropical white-sand beaches are plentiful on the nation’s thousands of isles, while the volcanoes of Mayon and Tail offer dramatic scenery overlooking the water. Other sites include Sigma Lagoon, Pagsanjan Falls and the Batad rice terraces.

Best time to visit the Philippines

The Philippines dry season falls right in the middle of the low season for tourism. The driest months are between January and March, where there is little rainfall and humidity falls to much more tolerable levels. Expect temperatures of up to 24C – and lows of 15C – every day.

Cambodia welcomes visitors eager to learn about its complicated history and experience its mix of Asian and French culture. A largely rural country, only three of its cities are home to over 100,000 people despite the country’s 16 million-strong population. Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city, while Siem Reap is another metropolitan centre that also acts as the gate to Angkor Wat, an ancient temple which today is the largest religious structure in the world.

The country’s islands, such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, contain pristine white beaches, sandy coves and coral reefs , and are popular spots for partying too. The Cardamom mountain range stretches over 4.4 million hectares of rainforest through the Southeast and into eastern Thailand, and is home to a vast range of wildlife, including sun bears, elephants and Siamese crocodiles. Tonle Sap lake is the largest in Southeast Asia, with its waters and floodplain home to over three million people and hundreds of different animal species.

Best time to visit Cambodia

Temperatures are at their lowest in the dry season between November and February, but you’ll still see average highs of 30C.

Laos is one of the continent’s smaller countries, and its shared borders – with Vietnam to the east, Thailand to the west and Cambodia to the south – give you an indication of the geography that you’ll find here. Whether you want to go through dense jungle on a cruise along the winding Mekong River, trek through the jagged karst around Vang Vieng or simply relax in the laid-back capital of Vientiane, there’s something to appeal.

Laos’ most important landmark is the Pha That Luang, a golden Buddhist stupa in Vientiane, while the capital’s other highlights include temples like Wat Si Saket and the old quarter. If you have time, visit the peaceful Song River and the town of Vang Vieng, before exploring the Unesco city of Luang Prabang and surrounding nature, including waterfalls, plunge pools and the banks of the Mekong.

Best time to visit Laos

The weather is Laos is best between October and April, when conditions are dry and not too warm. For river cruises, November through to January is best for high water levels, while August is both the wettest and most humid month.

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