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Best & Worst Times to Visit Southeast Asia 2024/2025, Rainy Season...

Southeast Asia lies within the tropics, with southern areas close to the equator, and so it's warm all year round. Average temperatures are around 27°C (80°F).

The climate varies significantly across the region of Southeast Asia. This makes it a year-round travel destination. The best time to visit will really come down to which country you would like to visit and what you want to do.

Generally speaking, the best time to visit most places in Southeast Asia is from November to February when the weather is dry (driest) and warm (on average) . Wet-season monsoon rains fall from June to October in most SE Asian countries.

• Weather Guide
• Best Times for Beaches
• Worst Times to Visit
• Travel Guide by Country
• Travel Guide by Month

Southeast Asia Weather Guide

Not all countries in Southeast Asia share the same seasons at the same time. There are some regional differences. They are roughly divided into two weather patterns.

There are three main seasons in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and the Philippines :

• Dry season: November to February
• Hot season: March to May
• Rainy season: June to October

There are two main seasons in Malaysia, Indonesia (Bali), and Singapore :

• Dry season: April to September
• Rainy season: October to March

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Most travelers choose to visit mainland Southeast Asia during its dry season as it's not so hot with little rain. During this time, go to the busy places as early or late in the peak season as you cann to avoid the crowds, such as the Grand Palace in Thailand and Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

The weather in the hot season, consistently getting to around 38°C (100°F). But it is a good time for the water fun at the beach. 

The rainy season is not so good, but you will find fewer crowds and lower prices for flights and accommodation. Travel to Southeast Asia in Summer: Places to Go, Costs, Weather

Check out how to plan a family trip to Southeast Asia >>>

Best Times for Beaches in Southeast Asia

• Thailand and Vietnam : November to early April
• Indonesia and Malaysia : April to October

If you hope to enjoy sunbathing and swimming in the sea , generally speaking, the best time to visit Southeast Asia's beaches is from November through early April when the weather is usually sunny and dry, and it's not too hot or too cool. The beaches in many countries, such as Thailand and Vietnam, are at their best during this period.

But if you would like to enjoy your beach vacation in Indonesia (like in Bali) or Malaysia's east coast (like on the Perhentian Islands or Tioman Island), the best time to go is between April and October .

If you're traveling to the beaches during the wet season, you should expect some rainy days, but there will also be days where it only rains for a short while and then the sun comes out. You'll find that hotel and resort prices are considerably cheaper during the rainy season .

Suggested read: Itinerary ideas for 10 days , 2 weeks , 3 weeks , 4 weeks , 5 weeks & 6 weeks in Southeast Asia>>>

Worst Times to Visit Southeast Asia

June to October is the rainy season and is generally considered to be the worst time to visit Southeast Asia. There will be some discomfort or inconvenience if you travel during these months. 

However, these worst times for the travel trade have benefits. You can enjoy very reasonable price and less-crowded beaches and temples. In addition, as  the rain in Southeast Asia is so predictable (it usually rains in the afternoon and at night) , it's easy to plan around the weather. This means there's not so much of a problem in traveling to Southeast Asia during the off-season, as long as you know what to expect and plan well.

If you are visiting northern Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Philippines) and particularly concerned about the weather, we would like to suggest you avoid April (the hottest month) and September (the wettest month). For dry experiences, you could visit Singapore and Bali  instead, which enjoy the best time from April to October.

Further reading:  How to Plan a Trip to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore >>>

Best Times to Visit Different Countries in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a large region. It is warm all year round. No matter when you visit, you will find a place that matches your interests and preferences.

Click the country name below to check the best travel time.

Best Times to Visit Thailand

Generally, the most popular time to visit Thailand is between November and early April when it is the cool and dry season. Northern and Southern Thailand experience different climates.

Southern Thailand :Southern Thailand is a perfect destination if you are looking for an excellent vacation on beautiful beaches, such as Krabi, Phuket, and Phi Phi on the west coast, or Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui on the east coast. The best time to visit Southern Thailand is from February to April when the weather is nice and sunny.

Northern Thailand :If you are going to visit Northern Thailand – including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, and Pattaya – you can consider visiting from October to January .

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Best Times to Visit Vietnam

The weather varies in northern, central, and southern Vietnam. Although the best time for travel depends on the region you visit, November to April are the best months to travel in most places of the country.

North Vietnam : North Vietnam includes Halong Bay, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and other great destinations. The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is warm and dry. In the mountainous regions, it can be covered in ice from December until January.

Central Vietnam : If you are planning to visit Hoi An, Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Hue in Central Vietnam, you can travel in the period from January to April . You can expect perfect beach weather — blue skies, warm sun, and gentle sea breezes.

South Vietnam : If you are traveling to South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet, and Mui Ne), the ideal time is from November to March . It can be hot from March to May, with an average temperature of up to 32°C/90°F.

Best Times to Visit Singapore

Singapore is a wonderful year-round destination with good weather. Unlike many destinations in Southeast Asia, there isn't that much of a difference between the wet season (October to March) and the slightly drier summer season (April to September).

You might find it strange that the peak season is from November to early January even though there is some rain and it is a little wet. Singapore is crowded with travelers, particularly during Chinese New Year.

If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit between February and May when the country is not overloaded with too many tourists and the weather is slightly hot. June to August is the driest time although it is unavoidable to encounter flash thunderstorms and stifling humidity.

Best Times to Visit Cambodia

Weather-wise, the best time to go to Cambodia is between November and April when it is sunny and dry. It is perfect if you are going to spend some time on a beach or hike through the jungles of Cambodia.

If you want to experience the country's fresh and lush greenery and quiet temples , the wet season (May to October) can be a good time. Heavy rains can occur but they only last for 1 or 2 hours in the afternoon.

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Best Times to Visit Myanmar (Burma)

The best time to visit most of Myanmar is from November to February when there are warm and dry days.

If you intend to visit areas in and around Mandalay and Bagan , which are the hottest and driest regions of Myanmar, you'd better avoid March to May as temperatures can rise to over 40°C/104°F. The wet season from June to October is considered a good season even though there is a bit of rain and it is good to avoid the winter crowds.

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Best Time to Visit Laos

Laos, a small and landlocked country in Southeast Asia, has a dry season (October to late April) and a wet season (May to late September).

If you are looking for warm and dry weather and want to enjoy outdoor activities, the ideal months to travel in Laos are from November to January , with temperatures ranging from 14–26°C (57°–79°F). This is also an excellent time for exploring the Mekong River.

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Best Times to Visit Malaysia

Malaysia has a classic equatorial climate with plenty of sunshine, high temperatures, and wet months throughout the year.

The best month to visit Malaysia depends on which side of the country you are going to visit. The seasons on each side of the peninsula are different.

The best time to visit the western islands is from December to February, while the perfect time to visit the east coast is from June to August.

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Best Times to Visit Indonesia

Indonesia is a year-round destination with warm tropical temperatures averaging 28°C/82°F throughout the year. The dry season in Indonesia spans from May to September and the wet season is between October and April.

If you plan to dive off the coast of Bali, Lombok, and Komodo National Park or want to plan to climb one of Indonesia's many volcanoes, the dry months from April to September are a great time.

If you are looking for good weather as well as fewer crowds, you can visit Indonesia in May, June, and September.

>>>Read about how to plan a trip to Thailand, Singapore and Bali

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide by Month

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

January Travel in Southeast Asia

January is one of the most popular travel periods for Southeast Asia. It's warm and dry in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Philippines, with temperatures hovering between 20°C (68°F) and the low 30s °C (86+°F) in most places.

Many visitors choose to spend their Christmas and New Year holidays on the sunny beaches. Diving and snorkeling are at their best during this period. Avoid the east coast of Malaysia and Bali, though, as it's the rainy season peak there.

You might like to join in Lunar New Year celebrations in (the Chinatowns of) these countries. In 2024, Lunar New Year is observed on February 9nd.

Reveal the top January destinations in Southeast Asia >>>

February Travel in Southeast Asia

Explore lively Bangkok in Thailand, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam in February before the heat of March. The temperature ranges between 20°C (68°F) and the low 30s °C (86+°F) in most places.

You are likely to experience rainfall only every four or five days, so you can spend the rest of your time trekking in the national parks, tasting yummy foods in the night markets, or listening to the holy chanting in the temples.

Book your hotels and flights 2–3 months in advance to ensure their availability and for better prices. Contact us for hotel recommendations.

Discover the must-visit spots in Southeast Asia this Febuary >>>

March Travel in Southeast Asia

The hot season arrives in March. Good deals for hotels and flights and fewer crowds make March a good month to travel for some.

With temperatures hitting the mid-30s °C (the 90s °F) on most days , March is a good time to swim in the sea, bath the elephants in a sanctuary or cruise on Halong Bay.

Start your touring/activities in the early morning to find some coolness.

Check more weather details, best places to go and costs in Southeast Asia in March >>>

April Travel in Southeast Asia

April is the hottest month in Southeast Asia. In some places, afternoon temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F).

A welcome chance to cool down comes with the water fights of Songkran Festival in Thailand from April 13th to 15th.

Laotians also celebrate their New Year from April 14th to 16th. It is a good opportunity to soak in Laos traditions, including washing Buddha statues, painting temples, candlelight processions around the temples, and splashing water on each other.

If you can handle the hot weather, April travel in Southeast Asia is full of traditional festivities. Find more weather details, best places to go and costs in Southeast Asia in April >>>

May Travel in Southeast Asia

May is the last month before the rainy season in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Temperatures in many areas are 35–40°C (95–104°F) . But, compared to April, May sees a welcome drop in temperature in some regions.

Rainfall starts to increase towards the end of the month, with more than half of the month seeing short thunder showers that last for about an hour. For most of the day touring is not affected.

For sunny beaches, Indonesia and the east coast of Malaysia are great options.

Find more travel-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia in May >>>

June Travel in Southeast Asia

June is the shoulder season in mainland Southeast Asia as it's in the monsoon season. The average daily maximum reaches around 33°C (91°F) and the average daily minimum is around 26°C (79°F) .

Thailand can expect an average of 15 to 22 days of rain in June. However, the rain is usually short-lived, occurring in short bursts in the afternoon or evening.

Indonesia and Malaysia provide visitors more dry days and ripe fruits in June.

Compared with the summer holiday crowds in July and August, June is still a good time to go.

July Travel in Southeast Asia

Though still in the rainy season, in mainland Southeast Asia, you will encounter more visitors in July than in June , as July is school holiday time for many countries.

The short-lived rains usually occur in the afternoon or evening. The average temperature is around 29°C (84°F) , and there is not a big temperature difference between day and night.

July is the peak season for Malaysia's east coast and Indonesia because of their dry (drier) weather and the summer holidays.

Typhoons happen frequently in Halong Bay in Vietnam . Your cruise might be canceled for safety. Always get insurance if you wish to cruise at this time.

Get some ideas about the best destinations to go in Southeast Asia in July >>>

August Travel in Southeast Asia

Like July, August is still in the rainy season in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The rains can be sporadic and unpredictable. The average temperature in August is 29°C (84°F) . Indoor activities are more advisable.

You're suggested to buy insurance if you plan to take a Halong Bay cruise in Vietnam as typhoons are likely to stop some cruises.

Indonesia and Malaysia's East Coast could be a better choice if you are seeking boat trips on the sea and sunny beaches.

Make tour reservation at least 3 months in advance for better deals.

See the best destinations to go in Southeast Asia in August >>>

September Travel in Southeast Asia

September is the wettest month in most areas of Southeast Asia. Heavy downpours are expected in the afternoon and evening with daytime temperatures around 30°C (86°F) and nighttime temperatures about 25°C (77°F) .

You will see much lower traveler numbers in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand in September as the rainy season peaks and the summer crowds have gone. The harvesting of the terraced rice fields in Sapa in north Vietnam begins. The golden yellow views and farmers working in the fields make a Sapa trek even more rewarding.

It is still hot and dry in Indonesia. With better hotel deals than in July and August, September is good time to relax on the sunny beaches of Bali.

October Travel in Southeast Asia

From October, the rain starts to increase in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, while northern Southeast Asian countries are ready to welcome their dry season. The average daily maximum and minimum temperatures in October for most areas are around 31°C (88°F) and 24°C (75°F) respectively .

The cooler temperatures, clearer views, and fewer travelers make October one of the best times to visit Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

November Travel in Southeast Asia

From November, the rainy season sets in for Indonesia, while the dry season really begins in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. November sees the start of Thailand's cool (warm) season. Days are usually hot (but not too hot) with balmy evenings. The average daily maximum is 31°C (88°F) and the average daily minimum is 24°C (75°F) .

Because of the pleasant weather and the Loy Krathong Festival (November 27th to 28th, 2023) , Thailand's peak travel season starts in November.

Avoid Koh Samui if you prefer sunny beaches. Unlike in Krabi or Phuket, November is the peak rainy month in Koh Samui and its side of the peninsula.

Unlock the best places to explore in Southeast Asia during November >>>

December Travel in Southeast Asia

December is good time for a trip to reward yourself for a year's hard work (before your accrued holiday is left untaken).

The temperature range is 24–32°C (75–89°F) on average . Pleasant weather and the Christmas and New Year holidays make travel businesses in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia reach their busiest point in December. You're suggested to make reservations 3 months in advance for better prices and to ensure availability.

Near to the end of the year, hotel/flight rates will increase a lot (1.5 times or even double) based on the large demand. Christmas or New Year dinners are usually fully booked in popular hotels/restaurants. Book that early too!

Singapore and Thailand are two best places to experience the atomaspheric festivals. Check how to plan a trip to Singapore and Thailand

For more weather details, check Southeast Asia Weather in December

Travel in Southeast Asia Your Way

Southeast Asia is a beautiful year-round destination and you're bound to have a good time no matter when you visit. We take everything, including the weather, into consideration when designing the best possible itinerary for you.

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32 BEST Places to Visit in Asia in December & January!

Categories Asia , Winter Travel

December and January are popular times of year to travel or to go on holiday. Many people, especially those in the Northern Hemisphere want to get away from the cold, dark days to somewhere sunny and Asia is the perfect place to travel to in December and January .

While some areas of Asia do experience thei r rainy season in December and January, most of the Southern parts of Asia are experiencing hot, dry, sunny weather .

However, if you like the cold and want to see some snow in December and January, Asia can also offer this, you just need to go further North within Asia .

I reached out to my travel blogging friends to get their thoughts, opinions and experiences from travelling Asia in the Winter months . Below are all the recommendations I received back to help you work out where to go on holiday in December and where to go in Asia in January .

Best Places to Visit in Asia in December and January

South East Asia is a clear winner as one of the best places to visit in December and January  due to the weather. A lot of countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia will have blue skies and less rainy days making them the perfect country for a Winter holiday destination .

We also have recommendations for other places in East Asia ,  Central Asia, the Middle East and the Sub Continent showing that no matter what you want from a trip to Asia during the winter months, you can get it.

From Tropical Islands to hop around, Indian Cities to explore , Middle Eastern adventures and Christmas celebrations in Asian countries you may not expect, if you’re looking for  where to travel in December and w here to travel in January , we have you covered!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

-Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is the perfect holiday destination in December and January as the transportation, accommodation, and activities are in full swing.

Koh Phi Phi is world famous because of the movie The Beach with DiCaprio , and it’s truly a paradise on earth. Be ready for sunny days, crystal clear water, secluded beaches, and delicious Thai Food. There are plenty of cool things to do in Koh Phi Phi , like soaking up the sun and swimming on the stunning Long Beach , go for a day kayaking to the Viking and Monkey beaches , and of course, going a boat tour to the small islands and the famous May Bay, AKA The Beach.

Koh Phi Phi is a group of islands, and only Phi Phi Don is inhabited and is there that you’ll stay, eat and play. The island is small, no cars are allowed there and the main mode of transportation is the traditional longtail boat. The good side is that all restaurants and bars are within walking distance from hostels and hotels.

There are some luxury resorts in isolated areas of the island with private beaches and amazing facilities, but if you are travelling on a budget in Thailand or want to be in the middle of the action , choose your room near Tonsai Pier, and be ready for an overdose of sun and sea.

Suggested by: Natalie from Love and Road.

Koh Lanta is one of the best places to visit in December in Asia . Contrary to Phuket and Krabi, the island of Koh Lanta is more laidback and sees fewer tourists in general. This means that the beaches won’t be as crowded and it will be more enjoyable for a relaxing vacation in the sun in Thailand .

The rainy season ends in Koh Lanta in November , and if you come here at the beginning of December , it will still be somewhat low-season with lower prices on accommodation and tours. Christmas and New Year will see more tourists, but it still won’t be as many as in Phuket .

January is also considered high-season in Koh Lanta and offers pleasant weather with temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius . Koh Lanta has many beautiful beaches with white sand and turquoise water. Additionally, there is also a jungle where you can go hiking on a day trip , where you can see wild monkeys.

Accommodation on Koh Lanta is available in all standards, ranging from backpacker guesthouses to luxurious resorts that have everything you could possibly wish for.

Suggested by: Alexander from Gourmand Trotter .

The island of Phuket in Thailand is a popular place to visit during the winter months . Not only is it hot all year round but the dry season runs from December to March leaving you with warm, rain-free days. This does mean that winter is peak tourist season and you can expect it to get busier during the lead up to Christmas and New Year so keep this in mind when planning where to travel in December.

Phuket has an awful lot of things to do with almost every kind of activity available. On the island, you can go hiking, ziplining, play golf , explore the local culture or simply sit on the beach all day. There are also countless tours available to the nearby Phi Phi Islands or the famous James Bond Island .

Personally, I believe the town of Kathu is the best place to stay in Phuket . It’s centrally located between Patong and Phuket City so it’s perfect if you’re trying to avoid the busy tourist areas. Kathu has plenty of things to see and do as well as having a more authentic feel to it than nearby Patong.  However, it’s not so great if you prefer to spend your nights partying .

As with many places in Thailand, Phuket is an affordable destination making it great for every type of traveller . Prices can be higher during winter but it’s still very cheap when compared to western countries. The real highlight is Thai food and eating out can cost the same as eating in so it’s the perfect place if you travel with the local cuisine in mind.

Suggested by: Oli from Not Brits Abroad.

-Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is one of the most wonderful islands in Thailand famous for its Full Moon parties, but recently more and more also as a yoga & mindfulness hotspot . Overall, Koh Phangan offers everything you might wish for in a tropical island destination – stunning beaches, lots of greenery, plenty of restaurants and cafés and nice people around.

There’s a lot to do in Koh Phangan  to keep you entertained for weeks.

Koh Phangan’s rainy season is over at the end of November and December becomes the first dry month making Koh Phangan a great December holiday destination . The temperatures are in their higher 20’s, sometimes low 30’s (Celsius) and become even a little cooler at night.

In terms of tourist numbers, January sees a lot more people coming than December and spending New Years’s Eve on Koh Phangan is also very popular, and fun, especially for people backpacking around Thailand.

Suggested by: Veronika from Travel Geekery.

The dry season begins in December on Koh Samui, making the weather sunny and warm without all the rain. And the weather in Koh Samui gets even better in January making it a great holiday destination in January .

The island is Thailand’s second-largest and there are lots of things to do in Koh Samui . Whether you want to travel with your family , go on a romantic couple retreat or stay in budget hostels on a backpacking trip , you will have a great time on Koh Samui .

There are plenty of beaches with long stretches of soft sand to choose from; some of them have souvenir shops , restaurants and lots of water activities going on while others are more secluded and quiet.

Apart from lounging on the beach , you can hike to incredible viewpoints, swim in waterfalls and admire the many stunning Buddhist temples around Koh Samui . Go inland to experience the lush landscape with the tall palm trees and a different, less-touristic side of the island .

Or go on a boat trip to the archipelago northwest of Koh Samui called Ang Thong Marine National Park for snorkelling, kayaking, and amazing views of an emerald lake and impressive limestone cliffs.

In the evening, you can enjoy a Pad Thai noodle dish or a mouth-watering curry at one of the many Thai restaurants on Koh Samui or visit the night markets to sample tasty, inexpensive Thai food and cocktails while shopping for clothes and souvenirs.

Suggested by:  Alex & Victoria from Northabroad.

Bangkok is a great place to visit all year round, but the weather is at its most pleasant during the months of December and January making it one of the popular places to visit in Asia in winter . The weather in Bangkok in December and January is drying out from the monsoon season and experiencing a slight cool down.

Humidity drops and temperatures are comfortable, without being too hot or too cold. These months also experience plenty of dry and beautiful clear sunny days which are perfect for going out and exploring all that the city has to offer.

There are many things for visitors to enjoy in Bangkok , with something for every type of traveller. P erfect December and January activities include taking a river cruise along the   Chao Phraya River and visiting many stunning temples such as Wat Arun and Wat Pho.

Many tour companies offer trips out of town to visit awesome places such as the ancient city of Ayutthaya or to visit a floating market . Outdoor food and shopping markets such as Chatuchak, Asiatique and  Ratchada Rot Fai Train Night Market are also great places to visit when the weather is cool and dry.

Bangkok is a perfect city to visit for a few days before travelling down south to the Thai islands , or up north for jungle trekking in Chiang Mai. Note that  December and January are also Thailand’s peak season for tourism , which means accommodation prices are slightly higher.

Suggested by: Caroline from CK Travels.

Laos makes a great South East Asian winter destination due to its tropical climate and dry weather during this part of the year. While travellers can and do visit Laos during the summer months, heavy rain during this period can make some parts of the country inaccessible – Laos’ roads are not as well developed as other Asian countries, and there is not a rail network like in Thailand or Vietnam .

Add that to the fact that parts of the country experience monsoon rains, the best time to visit Laos is in the dry season!

In Southern Laos, December and January typically have blue skies and hot days, with the nights still remaining warm. In the North, the nights and mornings can be a bit cooler, with foggy mornings in the mountain, but it is generally hot and sunny by late morning and in the afternoon.

The low (nearly non-existent) rainfall makes December and January a great time to explore the mountains of Northern Laos and make Laos one of the  best places to visit in December in Asia .

Laos is a Buddhist country , so there isn’t much in the way of Christmas celebrations – if you’re looking for somewhere with a festive feel to spend the holidays Luang Prabang will be your best bet, as it’s the most touristy city.

Suggested by: Claire from Claire’s Footsteps.

Philippines

Palawan, Philippines is one of the best tropical destinations to visit in December and January .  Palawan has two distinct seasons each year – a dry season from December to May, and a rainy season from June up to November .

By visiting in December or January , you will be almost guaranteed blue skies and sunny days.

The winter months are the best time of year to visit Palawan as you can take part in all the activities Palawan has to offer. The most popular thing to do in Palawan is to join an island hopping tour , which ranges from one-day to multi-day expeditions .

Joining a TAO Philippines expedition from El Nido to Coron last December was the highlight of my time in Palawan. Days were spent swimming in turquoise waters, snorkelling through vibrant coral reefs, chilling on secluded beaches, and fishing off the back of the boat.

If you love to celebrate Christmas, then visiting Palawan during December is perfect because the Philippines has the longest Christmas Season anywhere in the world! It starts as early as September and goes up to the first week of January . It’s so much fun to see how the locals creatively decorate the tropical fauna with Christmas lights .

If you’re looking for a tropical escape from winter or a warm place to celebrate Christmas in Asia , Palawan is the perfect place to go .

Suggested by: Lora from Explore with Lora.

-El Nido & Coron

For a tropical getaway full of adventure, there are a few spots in the Philippines that are calling your name – El Nido and Coron . If you’re looking for a longer holiday during December or January , we recommend taking a week in each area, as there is so much to do.

Off the tip of Palawan Island sits a cluster of 45 islands, better known as El Nido, that boasts some of the most beautiful scenery and bright blue waters you’ll ever see. While exploring the islands, make sure to check out both the Secret Lagoon and Large Lagoon , as they both are magical places.

Some other highlights of El Nido include Secret Beach, Snake Island and hiking up Taraw Peak. The area has tour operators that run day and overnight trips to all the best spots in El Nido and that’s the best way to see it all.

After exploring El Nido, c atch a ferry to Coron . Coron is another cluster of islands and just as beautiful, home to some of the most photographed spots in all of the Philippines. Another big draw of this area is the shipwreck diving, as Coron has multiple sites of sunken Japanese warships that divers can see up close.

When you’re not diving, make sure to spend some time at Kayangan Lake, one of the clearest lakes in all of Asia. Other must-stops include Maquinit Springs and Barracuda Lake.

Suggested by: Hannah and Adam from Getting Stamped.

Many travellers flock to the Philippines for its crystal clear waters and stunning white-sand beaches.  December and January are great months to visit the islands as the weather is dry and relatively cool.

However, I prefer to go farther away from the coastline and up into the mountains.  The quiet mountain retreat of Sagada is one of my favourite destinations in the Philippines , and December and January are among the best months to go.

Like many tropical countries, the Philippines has just two seasons – rainy and dry .  The rainy season typically starts at the end of May and goes until October .  This isn’t the best time to visit Sagada because the weather is hot and humid with heavy rains , especially around July till August which is usually the height of typhoon season .

Any hint of rain and it becomes dangerous to enter Sumaguing Cave , a striking subterranean system that’s quick to flood during the rainy season.

Instead, visit for the coolest and driest time of the year which is from December till January .  The weather is great in December but it’s also peak season for locals, so if you can, visit in January.  There are fewer tourists after the new year, making spelunking and trekking a quieter and more pleasant experience. You’ll appreciate Sagada more then.

If you do decide to visit Sagada , then I recommend making a trip to Batad as well.  Located about three hours southeast of Sagada , it’s home to the most beautiful rice terraces in the Philippines .  I often visit both on the same trip.

Suggested by: JB from Will Fly for Food.

-Caramoan Islands

Tucked away in the Bicol region of the Philippines, are the secluded Caramoan Islands . Largely unexplored and off the beaten track, these unspoilt islands are the Philippines’ last frontier .

If you’re looking for pristine beaches , powdery-white sands , stunning rock formations and marine life, then this far-flung jewel on the edge of the Camarines Sur is your ideal tropical destination.

With a balmy 30 degrees Celsius and a low chance of typhoons, January is an ideal time to visit making this island in the Philippines one of the places to visit in Asia in January.

You can spend your day’s island hopping from one serene spot to the other and it’s likely you’ll only bump into a few local fishermen, as most of the islands are uninhabited. Therefore, it’s not a surprise that the US hit TV show ‘Survivor ’ uses several of the islands as filming locations.

One thing to note is that the journey to the Caramoan islands is not for the faint-hearted . From Manila, it will take six hours minimum , including a one hour flight to Legaspi, followed by a 3-hour drive to Sabang Port and then a 2-hour speed boat ride to Caramoan .

However, the inaccessibility ensures the island’s sandy beaches and turquoise waters remain a secret Filipino paradise.

Suggested by: Roshni from The Wanderlust Within.

Bali is an idyllic island escape and one of the best places to travel in Asia in December and January for sun, sand and adventure . The island has a tropical climate , beautiful landscapes with temples , rice fields and beaches . It’s also one of the best places in Asia for surfers , as there are constant waves from the Southern Ocean all year round.

What’s more, the temperature of the water is a balmy 27 to 29 °C (80 to 84 °F) almost every month of the year! That means you can surf in boardshorts all year round.

If you’re not a surfer, your Bali itinerary could include sunbathing or getting a massage on the beach, sipping cocktails, tasting Balinese cuisine and renting a scooter to explore the island . Bali is also an affordable destination in Asia and a great place to go if you’re on a budget in Indonesia.

Bali is a great destination to visit in Asia at any time of the year . It can rain in December, but the slightly higher chance of rain doesn’t stop the holiday crowd from flocking to Bali as the water is warm, showers are usually brief and a holiday atmosphere. January is a better month to travel to Bali as it doesn’t rain as much in Bali and it’s not as humid.

Kuta Beach, Nusa Dua Beach Beach and Sanur Beach can get a little crowded a s December and January as this is peak season , but there are plenty of lesser-known beaches you can escape from the crowd. Try Keramas Beach and the beaches around Amed instead.

Suggested by: Christina from Travel2Next.

Here are some things to do in Bali which you don’t wanna miss out :

-Georgetown, Penang, Langkawi Island

Visit Penang and Langkawi Island on peninsular Malaysia’s western coast in January for long, sunshine-filled days and low rainfall making them a good holiday destination in Asia in January .

Start in the  UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town, Penang’s main city. This is quintessential Asia with crumbling Chinese shopfronts rubbing shoulders with British colonial buildings, Hindu temples and mosques and Hindu temples.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit George Town’s kongsi , or clan houses, scattered across the city’s streets and jetties. Checking out George Town’s vibrant street art scene and fill your boots with some of the best street food that you will eat in Asia. This is hawker stall heaven!

After you’ve had your fill of the history and culture of George Town take the ferry from Penang to the island of Langkawi .

This idyllic island is tailor-made for kicking back with a cocktail on a blindingly white sand beach, under the shade of a palm tree. But if you have a head for heights take the cable car to the top of Gunung Mat Chinchangandtake a walk across the Langkawi Sky Bridge.

This 125-metre-long pedestrian suspension bridge is not for the faint-hearted, but pluck up the courage to step onto it for sweeping views of Langkawi’s rainforests and islets.

I recommend allocating 5-7 days in Penang and Langkawi Island in your Malaysia itinerary   perhaps combining them with a few days in Kuala Lumpur and Malacca.

Suggested by: Bridget from The Flashpacker.

Ipoh is a small underrated town located in the state of Perak in Malaysia. Often overshadowed by Penang, Ipoh is still worth visiting for its authentic old town feel, colourful street arts and cave temples.

December and January are considered to be the peak season in Ipoh , which means that you’ll have perfect weather almost every day . Since Ipoh is not as popular as other towns in Malaysia, you won’t have to deal with the crowds! 

Just a heads up, if you’re travelling to Ipoh in January, it’s better to plan your trip outside of the Chinese New Year period as traffic can be a nightmare and hotel prices will be slightly more expensive.

If you’re wondering  what to do in Ipoh , you’ll be spoilt for choice! Head out to Mural Art’s Lane to see more than a dozen street arts! You can also check out Concubine and Market Lanes which are both great for souvenir shopping and a fun photo shoot with interactive murals. 

If you love being surrounded by nature, you’ll be pleased to know that Ipoh has an abundance of temples nestled in between the limestone formations. Perak cave temple is the most famous one but you’ll need to conquer 450 stairs before being rewarded with an incredible view of Ipoh. Other temples worth visiting are Kek Lok Tong and Sam Poh Tong.

Finally, you can’t leave Ipoh without tasting the iconic Ipoh white coffee which is best served with sweetened condensed milk and egg tarts. Nam Heong White Coffee and Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong are both known to serve the best coffee in town!

Suggested by: Stephanie from Let’s Venture Out

-Kuala Lumpur

No visit to Asia in December and January is complete without a stop in Kuala Lumpur . The capital of Malaysia has grown to become one of the best cities in Asia to offer a good mix of city life and cultural experience . Not to mention amazing places to visit and some of the best food .

Some of the iconic landmarks include the Petronas Twin Towers , Independence Square , and the National mosque, with the highlight being a visit to the 400-million-year-old Batu Caves .

With a classic equatorial climate, Kuala Lumpur is relatively humid overall , and there is always the possibility of rain at any time of the year . The weather does go through random floods and heat waves and is affected by two major monsoon seasons yearly . During this time the city experiences extensive rainfall and thunderstorms.

Arriving once the rains have passed in December, allows one to enjoy the city without having to worry too much about wet weather interfering in any activities. It is also a good time to experience many of the holiday celebrations that occur at this time of the year such as Hari Raya Puasa .

There is also the possibility of the Chinese New Year falling in this period, adding to the already festive atmosphere.

Suggested by: Rai from A Rai of Light.

Look for the best flights to Asia here!

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price! 

Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

-Cat Ba Island

One of the nicest places that you can visit in December and January is an island called Cat Ba which is located in the famous Halong Bay of Vietnam . A lot of people give it a miss because they prefer to take the more popular overnight cruises in the bay but I feel that since there are a lot of things to do in Cat Ba itself.

Cat Ba Island is definitely a cheaper alternative to the cruises around Halong Bay and you really don’t miss out on much since there are numerous (cheaper!) day trips that you can take along the bay.

If you love trekking then you definitely need to consider heading to Cat Ba national park . Adrenaline lovers will find rock climbing , cliff jumping , kayaking and so much more available. If you prefer a more sedate time, then just chill by one of the numerous beaches and enjoy the sound of the lapping waves against the sand .

Whenever anyone talks about visiting Vietnam, I always make sure that I suggest a few days stop on Cat Ba island. We found it immensely peaceful and relaxing .

January and February is the low season in Halong Bay since it is colder but it enables you to escape the crowds and have the island all to yourself making it one of the best places to visit in Asia in December and January .

Suggested by: Penny from GlobeTrove.

-Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to go for some sun during the winter months. While Northern Vietnam remains quite cold during this time of the year , the island of Phu Quoc enjoys temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius and plenty of sunshine.

Phu Quoc is known for its beautiful beaches with white sand and colourful water . The rainy season ends in September , and the months of December and January are some of the least rainy .

There are plenty of things to do on Phu Quoc, such as renting a motorbike and driving around the various beaches . Furthermore, you can join a boat tour and go snorkelling by the reefs , or visit deserted islands that are uninhabited.

Most tourists come here via a stopover at Ho Chi Minh International Airport , but it’s possible to take direct flights from Bangkok to Phu Quoc as well as all major airports within Vietnam plus some additional destinations.

Stay in style at the Radisson Blu Resort – book your stay today

Tourists who come to Phu Quoc directly can enjoy a special visa that allows you to stay for 30 days, instead of the regular 15 days. There is plenty of accommodation in Phu Quoc to choose from for all budgets, from backpacker to luxury. I can recommend the Radisson Blu Resort, which has a great location and beautiful rooms.

Suggested by: Christine from Christine Abroad .

The perfect time to visit Myanmar is December & January.   At this time of year, the monsoon rains have stopped and it’s starting to heat up but there is a nice cool breeze and it’s not as intense as it gets from March.

This is the busiest time for tourists in Myanmar so it is probably best to book your accommodation in advance if you can or at least before you arrive in a city.  You will find though, that there are a lot fewer tourists than in other South East Asian countries , making it a great country to choose.

Myanmar is an easy country to get around though you will find the transport and roads more basic than the countries surrounding it and so it can take a long time to go a short distance.

In my 2 weeks, I visited Yangon the old capital, Mandalay the 2nd largest city and centred around Mandalay Palace, Inle Lake and Bagan . Bagan had to be my favourite place, exploring some of the 2000 temples there and watching the sunset. 

Cut the hassle and book a tour to Bagan from Mandalay now !

I hired an electric bike in Bagan and visited many of the temples, it’s great to go see some of the smaller ones as you can be the only tourist there. I also did the 4 day hike from Kalaw to Inle Lake which was stunning and definitely worth doing, it was another highlight of the trip.

You should definitely consider visiting Myanmar for your holiday in Asia , it’s a beautiful country, with so much to see and do.

Suggested by: Claire from I Live 4 Travel.

Siem Reap, Cambodia is the perfect place to visit in Asia in December and January. Cambodia has two seasons for weather. A rainy season which goes from April to October and a dry season from October to April.

December and January in Siem Reap are typically dry, sunny, with low humidity and relatively cooler temperatures for this country. Although the average temperature hovers around 26 degrees Celsius, (78 degrees Fahrenheit) that is about the coolest Siem Reap will get.

December and January are ideal weather to comfortably explore this beautiful city and the Angkor temples during the day, although a lunch break in the shade will still be enjoyed!

While you are exploring Siem Reap, the Angkor temples are a must! Because of the ideal weather in these months, you might be worried about the bigger crowds at this UNESCO site. We recommend getting an early start when planning to explore the more popular temples like Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom to beat the crowds. Then venture off to the lesser-known temples later in the day.

The Angkor temples are the largest religious monument in the entire world and they are ENORMOUS . Most tourists stay at Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom and fail to adventure out. We promise you can still escape the crowds even during these busier months.

Lastly, for more things to do in Siem Reap , don’t miss the opportunity to explore Pub Street at night ! This street is filled with restaurants, markets and food vendors. Oh and let’s not fail to mention that a beer is $.25 which will be the perfect end to a day full of adventure !

Suggested by: Julie & Zach from Ruhls of the Road.

The palm-fringed beaches of Goa are the perfect destination to relax and refocus . Spend your days walking along the shoreline and swimming in the Arabian sea , before joining a sunset yoga session and tucking into a curry.

However, it’s important you time your visit right. From March right through to October , many of the large resorts in Goa close down and the majority of beach huts are dismantled due to the monsoon season . December and January really is the perfect time to visit Goa when the skies are clear, temperatures hover around 30 degrees , and there is a variety of beach huts on offer along the coastline.

December in Goa can get very busy as everyone ramps up for Christmas, Goa is a popular place to spend Christmas in Asia because the Portuguese religious influence is strong here so everywhere is sparkling with twinkling lights and in celebration mode. The downside to this is that accommodation prices rocket and you need to book early.

Come January in Goa , things have calmed down and the festive holidaymakers have left. This is the best month to visit Goa and plan your visit as you’ll find some great deals on accommodations . It’s just case of finding which beach is best for you as there is quite an eclectic mix catering to the raver, the yogi, the package sun-seeker and everything in between.

Party-loving backpackers often head to Palolem, whereas if you’re visiting Goa with kids and looking for something more low-key, we suggest heading to Agonda.

Suggested by: Jenny from TraveLynn Family.

Kerala is a beautiful state in South India bounded by the mountains of Western Ghats on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other side. The breathtaking landscape, the cultural diversity and great food make it live up to its nickname – “ God’s own country ”.

While the hill stations of the Western Ghats are evergreen travel destinations because of their temperate climate, the rest of Kerala is infamous for its humidity. That is what makes Kerala the best holiday destination for winter .

Treks, wildlife safaris, houseboats on backwaters, pristine beaches, historic monuments – Kerala has everything to make you feel special. The aromatic spice gardens of Wayanad , the spectacular tea estates of Munnar at an altitude where you can touch the clouds and the exotic wildlife of Thekkady – these are a mountain lover’s dream.

Normally the climate is moderate in these areas, but bringing light woollens is advisable, especially in Munnar because it does get cold in the evening even though it’s hot during the day.

Kerala also has many beaches that are cleaner and less crowded than that of Goa. Not to forget, the backwaters of Kerala which welcome thousands of migratory birds in December and January from all over the world.

While Kerala’s natural beauty is its highlight, there are many historic monuments in Kerala which deserve your attention. The imposing Bekal fort overlooking the sea and the new Jatayu Park which is one of its kind are just a couple of my favourites.

Suggested by: Sinjana from Backpack & Explore.

Rajasthan is one of the most popular destinations to visit in India.   Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and it is well connected with all major cities of India by air as well as Indian Railways. Once you are in Rajasthan, it is convenient to travel around Rajasthan by train and bus.

The weather remains pleasant to slightly cold in December and January in Rajasthan . The average temperature hovers between 2 5 to 10-degree Celsius . The days are sunny and bright and the evenings cool down. This makes December and January the best time of the year  to travel to Rajasthan.

Things to do in Rajasthan include visiting grand Forts , Palaces , Frescos Havelis, Historic Monuments and National Parks . The most popular cities to visit in Rajasthan are Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Pushkar and Ajmer.

Jaipur is Pink City, Udaipur is the White City , Jodhpur is Blue City and Jaisalmer is a Golden City. If you like offbeat places in Rajasthan then visit Bundi, Skehawati, Chittorgarh, Ranakpur, Bhangarh, and Kumbhalgarh . If you are a nature lover then visit Ranthambore Tiger reserve, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo bird sanctuary .

Suggested by: Sapna from My Simple Sojourn.

– Golden Triangle

India’s popular Golden Triangle route is ideal for travellers who want to experience a rich culture in good weather .

December and January is the best time of year to visit the Golden Triangle in India because it’s the dry season and temperatures are still mild. Nighttime lows can drop to 9°C but it can reach 25°C during midday. Best of all, there are plenty of exciting things to see within this three-city trek.

The Golden Triangle tour starts in India’s chaotic but enchanting capital of Delhi . This is the easiest location to fly in and out of for visitors from around the world. While there you should arrange visits to The Red Fort of Delhi, the main residence of the Mughal Emperor in the late 1600s.

Jama Masjid Mosque is also in Delhi and it’s one of the largest houses of worship in India . You should also visit the Chandni Chowk bazaar for souvenirs and to check out the spice stalls.

The second city on this route is Agra , home of the Taj Mahal. You’ll see one of the most well-known attractions in not only India but the world. Many travellers do this journey just for the Taj Mahal.

The impressive structure stands alone in beauty and was designed to be heaven on Earth – many think it achieved that goal. Before leaving Agra, you should also visit The Red Fort of Agra and the impressive citadel palace within.

Your final city in the Golden Triangle is Jaipur. It’s often the least well-known of the three destinations , but it’s teeming with beauty and history. While there you should visit and tour Jaipur’s City Palace. Continue with the Amber Fort , a great palace and fortress built into the nearby mountains. From there you can also visit the Water Palace and spend some time getting lost in Jaipur’s Old City .

Check out my Golden Triangle India Itinerary here!

Suggested by: Derek from Robe Trotting.

With warm temperatures and good weather year-round, Sri Lanka is a perfect place to visit in Asia in December and January. Most people head straight to the palm-fringed beaches , but Sri Lanka is much more than that. Inland you will find Sri Lanka’s hill country that is full of history, culture and tea estates.

Kandy is at the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country and is considered to be the cultural capital of the country . From there it is only a short trip to some of the top things to do in Sri Lanka . Among them are the ancient Buddhist cave temples in Dambulla , the iconic Sigiriya rock and the jungles of Minneriya National Park where you can see wild elephants.

Kandy is also the start point for the scenic Kandy to Ella train that goes straight through Sri Lanka’s hill country. It’s considered to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world and it is so popular that you need to book your tickets in advance.

Although you could travel straight to the small hill town of Ella there are several places on this train journey worth a stop. You can get out to Hatton to climb Adams Peak . Nanuoya is the gateway to the tea town of Nuwara Eliya and from Haputale are several nice hikes into tea country.

With so many things to see and do in Sri Lanka’s hill country, it is the perfect destination in Asia in both December and January . You can easily spend about two weeks in this region if you want yo see everything. The combination of nature, history, culture and great food will guarantee a great time.

Suggested by: Ellis from Backpack Adventures.

Bhutan is a beautiful South East Asian country enriched with its magical landscapes, stunning mountains, pristine rivers and cultural heritage. This Carbon Negative Country is also known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Only Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air operate flights to and from Bhutan. Direct flights are available only from India, Thailand, Singapore, Bangladesh and Nepal.

Although April-May is the peak season to travel Bhutan , perhaps December-January is the best time to enjoy the snowfall and the scenic view of Bhutan. Above all, these are the months when you find Bhutan less crowded and can travel Bhutan on a budget .

Thimpu, Paro, Punakha – these are the best three places to visit in Bhutan. Start exploring Thimpu with Buddha Point. This offers a stunning view of 50 meters tall seating Buddha statue that is totally made of bronze.

The main reason to visit Bhutan in December or January is Paro. It is the most beautiful city in Bhutan located at an elevation of 2200 meters . In a Winter morning, you will get a clear panoramic view of the wide mountain range. Don’t miss Chelela Pass , the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. There is a high chance that you will get snowfall in December-January . It will offer you a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains and trees.

Your Bhutan trip will be incomplete without the most popular Tiger’s Nest Monastery trek . It is not an easy trek, but you can enjoy the enchanting beauty of nature throughout the journey. We were lucky enough to get the snowfall here when we did this trek in January.

Suggested by: Trijit Mallick from BudgetTravelBuff.

While most of Nepal is difficult to enjoy in the winter, it’s actually the best time of year to visit the Terai which lies in the west of Nepal bordering India . The area has several claims to fame which make it a fantastic destination in and of itself.

For starters, you can visit Lumbini which known as the birthplace of Buddha . It’s a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists all over the world, and in 1997 was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Today, several countries have built Buddhist temples in the area.

The German temple is a crowd favourite with its bright beautifully painted ceiling. While you can visit Lumbini year-round , the temperature here reaches extremes of 110 F in the summer . Winter offers the perfect climate for walking around at 80 F during the day.

Another major site in the Terai is Chitwan National Park . It was declared Nepal’s first national park in 1973 , and later, it was also declared a World Heritage Site . Today, it’s a popular place to spot Bengal tigers in the wild. The park is home to approximately 125 Bengal tigers .

Winter is the perfect time to see them since those are the months with the least rain . With little rain, the tigers come to the river to drink every morning. Most of the guides in the park know their favourite spots making it a lot easier to spot one. The park is also home to the greater one-horned rhino and the gharial crocodile .

Suggested by: Michelle from Full Time Explorer.

Almaty in Kazakhstan is a great place for visiting all year round , but as the city is home to Central Asia’s only ski resort , it makes a perfect winter destination in Asia . The resort at Shymbulak is easily reachable  from the centre of Almaty (bus 6, 40 minutes).

There is also the Medeu Skating Rink which is th e highest open-air ice rink in the world. If you are not much of a skier, then head into the Tian Shan Mountains for some fine winter hiking, but wrap up warm!

Almaty is not just a great destination for adventure lovers as the cosmopolitan city has a wealth of attractions and entertainment . From exquisitely housed museums and theatres in the Russian style to top-end restaurants and amusement parks like Kok Tobe , there is something to suit everyone in this colourful Silk Road City . Although the weather is cold in December and January , the skies are usually blue with plenty of winter sunshine.

For even more stunning landscapes there are plenty of day trips from Almaty such as the enchanting Big Almaty Lake . A little farther afield you can spend a few days exploring Kolsai Lake or the Charyn Canyon . The newly paved roads mean travelling overland in Kazakhstan in winter is much easier now than in previous years and a modern rail network means exploring the rest of this vast country is more comfortable than ever.

Almaty also makes a great base for exploring the rest of Central Asia . Kyrgyzstan is reachable by bus (4 hours) and Uzbekistan by overnight train and taxi to the border (15 hours).

Suggested by: Steve from The Trip Goes On.

The best time of year to visit Muscat , the capital city of Oman is during the winter months as the average temperature ranges between 15-22° C as compared to the rest to the year when the temperature rises till 45° C .

Muscat has a lot of natural beauty to offer and the beautiful outdoor locations are best enjoyed d uring the winter months . The city has a mesmerizing coastline with some excellent clean and serene beaches. During winter, BBQ’s at these beaches is a favourite activity of the residents of Muscat . Al-Mouj marina is a lavish, luxurious marina area in the city which hosts many restaurants and other entertainment activities.

Muttrah area in Muscat offers some easy hikes of the rugged, brown mountains which reward the hikers with spectacular views of the city and the corniche area. Winter is the most popular time for these hikes in Oman as the sun isn’t as harsh as the rest of the year. Muscat has a beautiful marine life too and some excellent snorkelling and diving spots are found in the city.

One of the most visited islands in Muscat is the Dayminath Island with white sand which is very popular during the winter season. Pods of dolphins are found in the ocean surrounding the city and during the pleasant winter months, a large number of boat tours are organised to see the dolphins in natural habitats.

Book the top activities in Muscat and make your tour memorable!

Suggested by: Nabiha from Verses by a Voyager.

How to get the best flights??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different destinations and different dates for the best price and route!

For example, I type in ‘everywhere’ in the destination if I have fixed dates and want to find the best flights on those dates on Skyscanner.

And if I have a set destination I’ll look at the ‘month view’ to check the cheapest days to fly in that month

There are only a few places in the world boasting true sun guarantee and the United Arab Emirates is one of them and it almost never rains. In fact, you are lucky if you see rain on your trip. Not just because it’s rare, but because the locals will be psyched. It’s the highlight of their year, and they act accordingly. It should be a cultural experience you’ll never forget.

The Emiratis know how to cater to tourists, after all, it’s how they plan to survive once the oil runs out and that’s part of the reason you’ll find the biggest mall in the world there, the tallest skyscrape r and the largest ferry wheel . And those are just a few of the world records the country holds!

December or January is a particularly good time of the year to visit the UAE because temperatures are bearable. The scorching summer sun has turned itself down, and you will be able to survive outdoors. This means there are more things to do in the UAE , such as visiting the desert , sunbathing at a beach club , kayaking in the mangroves or participating in a lavish and boozy Friday brunch by the pool.

There will also be plenty of events taking place in those months, most importantly the UAE National Day , the Formula 1 season finale and the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship . So pack your sunscreen and bury your prejudices, it’s time to visit the Emirates! 

Suggested by: Nick from The Danish Nomads.

Winter may arguably be the best time of year to visit Shanghai without all the crowds. The city has adopted a lot more of the West’s Winter traditions than its fellow Chinese Cities. For example, Shanghai adores its Christmas markets with lightly spiced mulled wine, decorated trees twinkling their bells and the sweet scent of gingerbread.

January brings several seasonal celebrations: the Western New Year (on 1 January), which is a public holiday in China , and the Chinese New Year, which is important for family reunions. Because the Chinese calendar determines the date of the Lunar New Year, the holiday falls on a different date each year, sometimes in late January and sometimes in early February.

Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival or Chunyun period , as it is called in China, is often referred to as the largest annual human migration when millions of people pack up for a week or two and head to the countryside to see family.

That leaves big cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai feeling more like abandoned cities than metropolises. At the same time, the major tourist attractions, such as Yu Garden and the Bund , both become flooded with domestic tourists during public holidays. Indeed, there are so many visitors that soldiers have to serve as movable barriers to regulate the city’s traffic so keep this in mind if you plan to visit Shanghai in January .

Shanghai is a fascinating, cosmopolitan city rich in all aspects, yet it retains some ancient charm. It’s even truer when visiting suburban ancient towns with special events for the winter holidays. These are the ideal places to encounter everything Chinese, especially culture and customs.

You could listen to local operas and try to make your own handicrafts in person in Fengjing Ancient Town where buildings and bridges are in the style of Ming and Qing Dynasties. Located at the intersection of Nanjing Road West and Wanhangdu Road, Jing’an Temple is a must-see attraction.

It has a long history and contains some amazing Buddhist relics. The Qibao Ancient Town features cricket fighting shows, delicious traditional food from the Yangtze Delta region , and plenty of folk activities.

Suggested by: Ivan from Mind The Travel.

Hong Kong, or the Pearl of the Orient , is one of the biggest cities in Asia. Located right on the Tropic of Cancer, Hong Kong’s climate is characterized by humid and hot summer with mild winters . For this and many other reasons, Hong Kong is one of the best places in Asia to visit in December or January .

In general, Hong Kong is a great travel destination for anyone. Amazing infrastructures, beautiful skyscrapers, diverse cuisines , and an abundance of traditional Chinese culture , Hong Kong is one of the cities that has it all.

On New Year’s Eve, Hong Kong has one of the biggest fireworks showcase celebrations of the year. Situated on the Victoria Habor , the firework display is one of the best in the world. With the Hong Kong skyline as the background, it is an unforgettable sight and the best way to start the new year.

In January, Chinese New Year approaches and preparation will begin. Probably the most important holiday in China, Chinese New Year is one of the best times to be in Hong Kong .  Celebrations, parades, and festive spirit will fill the dynamic streets. If you are here in January, don’t miss out on the Lunar New Year Lantern Displays . It is one of the coolest things I have seen in Hong Kong.

Suggested by: Sean from Living Out Lau .

As one of the former capitals of Japan, Kamakura is a place of historical and religious significance , with lots of beautiful temples and shrines . Many of these temples and shrines have a number of cherry trees on their grounds, including the Kotokuin Temple , where the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) is situated. This is the second tallest bronze Buddha statue in the country and one of the main reasons to visit Kamakura .

Due to its many imposing religious structures and its proximity to the capital, Kamakura is one of the  best day trips from Tokyo . But if you want to be really thorough, an overnight stay in Kamakura is a great option. In December and January , temperatures in Kamakura tend to be slightly higher than in Tokyo, which is great if you’re not a big fan of the cold.

Although pretty small now, Kamakura is one of the best places to see temples and shrines in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Seriously, it feels like every few steps there is an interesting sight, including Hokokuji Temple with its small bamboo grove , Hasedera Temple with its magnificent views and Zeniarai Benten a small shrine where visitors can literally wash their money.

Suggested by: Laura from Travelers Universe.

And there you have it! I hope you can now work out where will be the best place to travel in December and January to get good weather in Asia for your Winter and Christmas Holidays.

If you want to do more research, here are my Asia blog posts:

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• Top 10 Places To Visit In January In Asia 2024 For A Great Time

23 Mar 2023

In Asia, January is considered as the best month for travelling because of its climate and festive. During January most of the places in Eastasia like Korea and China will be in cold and most of the places in southeast Asia (except Indonesia and East Timor) will be enjoying warm and dry weather. January is a perfect time to enjoy the pleasant weather in Thailand and nearby countries like Laos and Cambodia. Here we have picked the top 10 places to visit in Asia during January.

1. Phuket, Thailand 2. Gansu, China 3. Okinawa, Japan 4. Canggu, Bali 5. Luang Prabang 6. Unawatuna, Sri Lanka 7. Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Vietnam 8. Taipei, Taiwan 9. Kep, Cambodia 10. New Delhi, India

1. Phuket, Thailand

With the help of a new 12 lane highway and upgraded airport its easy to travel around the Phuket, Thailand. Phuket is the best party island which is located in Thailand. The fresh seafood, excellent weather, and friendly people are the best thing about Phuket. The pearl of Andaman offers romantic white-sand beaches and you don’t need to pay to visit these admirable beaches.

Things to do:

• Picking a great beach (The best thing to do in Phuket is picking any beach on the west side of the island which backs up to the thick forest and enjoying to the core)
• Try a massage (As you know Thailand is famous for the massage, you can try and get the best Thai-style massages here)

Suggested Read: 25 Best Honeymoon Destinations In Asia In Summer

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2. Gansu, China

When it comes to travelling during vacation China may not be in the first place which comes to the mind. But Gansu in northwestern China features provides stunning landscapes that you have never heard of. Gansu is located near Tibet and it is the home to the Gobi desert, yellow river, and mountain formations.

• Mago Grottoes (It is also known as Thousands Buddha Caves and it is considered as the most valuable discovery in the 20th century. Exquisite mural paintings and statues are the notable things about this place)
• Crescent Lake (This place got its name due to its crescent shape and it is considered as the first lake in the desert which is surrounded by sand mountains)

Suggested Read: 28 Amazing Budget Beaches of South-East Asia

3. Okinawa, Japan

January is the best time to travel to Japan, Okinawa. During this month you can enjoy the fresh powdery snow and clear blue skies. Okinawa is the home for incredible beaches and you can enjoy the very pleasant weather.

• Okinawa world (It is a theme park which is located on Okinawa Honto, and encompasses the Gyokusendo Cave)
• Iriomote (In this island you can trek through the jungle and also you can kayak around the island)

Suggested Read: 36 Best Places To Visit In Southeast Asia

4. Canggu, Bali

Canggu is the coastal village which is located in Bali and this place is filled with amazing food markets, beautiful beaches especially with cheap accommodation. Canggu has everything that you need for an amazing vacation.

• Explore the beaches (Canggu is known for its stunning beaches, so one of the best things you can do is explore and enjoy at the amazing beaches)
• Eat at every cafe (Another best thing about Canggu is its delicious food, so if possible have food at every cafe and fill your tummy)

Suggested Read: 23 Best Places To Visit In May In Asia For A Cool And Carefree Vacay

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5. Luang Prabang,

Luang Prabang is best for its unique culture and architecture. The other best thing about visiting this place is its amazing weather in January. Haw Kham Royal Palace and the watermelon-shaped Wat Wisunarat temple will be the best place you can visit in Luang Prabang.

• Explore the temples (Luang Prabang is a place that is known for the glorious temple. The best-known temple is Wat Xieng Thong)
• Witness sunset (Watching the stunning sunset from Mount Phou Si, it is a place that is halfway up the hill and can give you great experience)

Suggested Read: 10 Beautiful Islands In Asia That Should Top Your Travel Bucketlist

6. Unawatuna, Sri Lanka

If you are considering a beach vacation, if you want to explore and enjoy at the beach then Unawatuna is the best option for you. Sri Lanka is the home for clear blue waters and palm-lined beaches. And also you can get every facility for a good vacation especially within budget.

• Relax at Unawatuna beach (The beach is filled with wonderful places to relax, eat, and swim)
• Swing at the Dalawella beach (Swinging at the coconut treat on the Dalawella beach will be the best adventurous thing you can do)

Suggested Read: 23 Romantic Budget Honeymoon Destinations In Asia For Every Budget

7. Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Vietnam

One of the best places in Phong Nha-Ke Bang is the national park at this place. And this place is remaining as the untouched beauty of Vietnam. This park features the unique karst mountain in Asia which was formed around 400 million years ago.

• Explore the world’s largest cave (Hang Son Doong is the best reason to visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang. And this place is considered as the world largest cave)
• Day trip to public caves (You can take a wonderful day trip to some caves like Phong Nha cave, Paradise cave, and Dark cave)

Suggested Read: Hong Kong Itinerary For 7 Days: Our One Of A Kind Experience In Asia’s World City!

8. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan is the best place to visit for winter warmth. The best thing about this place is the fusion of American, Japanese, and Chinese culture. This vibrant city has a lot of attractions and amazing foods to taste.

• Take a short train ride into Shifen and visit the scenic Shifen Waterfall (Shifen waterfall is known as the Niagara falls of Taipei. Rainbow can be often spotted at this place)
• Hike at Mount Keelung (Hiking up at Mount Keelung will offer you an amazing view Jiufen)

Suggested Read: 14 Honeymoon Destinations In Asia In December To Celebrate Your Love Story

9. Kep, Cambodia

It is considered as the seaside retreat for the French elite and it was founded in 1908. In January Kep will have amazing and pleasant weather which you can enjoy. And this weather will be perfect for beach travelling.

• Tasting the delicious crab (The best thing you can have at Kep is its traditional food [crab] and the blue crab is famous across Cambodia)
• Hiking in the park (You can hike at the Kep National park which is situated on the small mountain)

Suggested Read: Kyrgyzstan Visa For Indians: Explore The Unexplored Lands Of This Asian Country!

10. New Delhi, India

There is so much to see and explore in New Delhi and it will warrant multiple visits. You can roam around Old Delhi market, and you can have a look at the Indian parliament buildings. And this place will give a lot of beautiful memories.

• Walk to India Gate (Visiting India Gate on the evening will be marvellous and the beautiful fountain around it will give a magical look)
• Gaze at Qutab Minar (One of the top attraction of Delhi is Qutab Minar and it will offer you an amazing feel)

Further Read: 5 Cafes Near Pulau Ubin In Singapore For The Authentic Asian Cuisine

So be it India or Thailand or any other tourist destination, each place has a very unique experience that it strives to deliver to its tourists. Travelling is more than just recreation, it is living, and each of these places is sure to teach you something new about life. Plan your trip to Asia now with us!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In January In Asia

Will language be a barrier to travel around Asia?

Each part of the Asian country will have their language and it will not be a barrier for you to travel because you can find some degree of English in allover Asia.

Is Asia safe for children and family?

Obviously, Yes Asia will be the safest place for your kids and family and you can be alert at the places to take extra care.

Do I need to have a visa to travel around Asia?

In most of the cases, the answer is yes. You need to have a visa to travel around Asian countries.

What is the interesting thing about Asia?

The interesting thing about Asia is its oldest civilization, the highest peaks, populous cities.

What are some other interesting places to visit in Asia?

Interesting places apart from the above-listed places are the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, South Korea, and Malaysia.

Is Asia safe for solo female travellers?

It is absolutely safe to travel across Asia for female travellers, it is always best to opt for public transportation while commuting . Stay well informed about the surrounding.

Do I need to vaccine myself from any allergies or heath issues ?

Asia is a safe and healthy space for travellers, you don’t need to get any extra vaccines or shots.

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When is the best time to visit Southeast Asia?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Southeast Asia depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. There are some significant climate variations across the region, but rather than limiting possibilities, this makes Southeast Asia a year-round destination with good conditions for exploring throughout the year.

In general, the cool, dry season lasts from November to April across mainland Southeast Asia and the Philippines making this a good time to visit Thailand, Vietnam or Indochina, while Indonesia and Borneo are drier from April to October, and Malaysia offers year-round sun on one coast or the other.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Southeast Asia

Visiting Southeast Asia in January

January is a great time to visit Southeast Asia and is one of the driest months across the northern part of the region, with comfortable temperatures for beach going or more intrepid exploration. Thailand and Malaysia’s west coast beaches are bathed in sunshine, river travel in Vietnam is at its peak, and there are a host of festivals in Myanmar and the Philippines.

Events & Festivals

• Ati-Atihan is the Philippines’ largest festival. It takes place in Kalibo, with street dancing and wild costumes to celebrate an ancient land pact between settlers and indigenous Atis.
• Chinese New Year, Lunar New Year and Naga New Year are celebrated across the region with traditional festivals, drumming and dancing.
• Sinulog is Philippine city Cebu City's biggest annual event, featuring a huge street parade, live music and plenty of food and drink.

Visiting Southeast Asia in February

Pleasant weather across Myanmar makes February a good time to explore the plains, foothills and beaches. High water levels in Tonle Sap and the Mekong make it a good time for river travel in Cambodia, while it’s not too hot for exploring the temples of Angkor. For good-value beach breaks, the west coast of Thailand and Malaysia are good bets.

• Chin National Day (20th February) is a day of celebrating the culture, traditions, history and language of the Chin people in Myanmar. Festivities include traditional bamboo pole dances.
• Tet is the biggest festival of the year in Vietnam, celebrations for the lunar new year can last a week or more and travel may be busier.
• Wat Phou Festival sees Laos’ Buddhists attend a three-day festival in Champasak, taking part in processions, recitals, boat races and dances.

Visiting Southeast Asia in March

It’s shoulder season in Borneo with mostly dry weather, low visitor numbers and promotional rates making it a great time to visit. Thailand and Malaysia are hot and sunny offering the pick of beaches on both coasts, and it’s a great time to visit Halong Bay in Vietnam or Cambodia, but you’ll need to book well in advance.

• Easter brings holy week celebrations in the Philippines, include large-scale religious processions with floats, costumes, masks, food and music.

Visiting Southeast Asia in April

It’s reaching the end of the dry season in Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia and the Philippines, temperatures are rising and visitor number are high. Book well in advance. It’s a good time to go trekking in Borneo and see orangutans, and Indonesia is beginning to dry out with promotional deals making it a good-value destination at this time of year.

• Songkran in Thailand, Thingyan in Myanmar and Lao New Year are celebrated with scented water thrown in the streets and onto passers-by as a cleansing ritual and a sign of goodwill.

Visiting Southeast Asia in May

May is a great time to visit Borneo, Bali, Lombok or the east coast beaches of Thailand and Malaysia. With long hours of sunshine, clear seas for snorkeling and diving, good orangutan viewing and shoulder-season prices, it’s one of our preferred times of year to travel here. Heat and humidity are building in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in advance of the rains.

• Boun Bang Fai, normally held in May or June, is a festival that marks the sixth month of the lunar calendar in Laos with homemade fireworks and rocket competitions.
• Flores de Mayo is a month-long, countrywide religious festival in the Philippines celebrating the coming of the rains. Processions are sometimes held after dark and lit by candles, creating a wonderful ambience.
• Gawai Dayak is an annual harvest festival celebrated by the Dayak people in Sarawak, where it's a public holiday. It's marked by the sharing of food, decorated longhouses and traditional dress.

Visiting Southeast Asia in June

Diving season is at its peak in Tioman, Redang and the Perhentians off Malaysia’s east coast, while Indonesia and Borneo are hot and dry with ripe fruit drawing orangutans to lower branches making forest treks particularly rewarding. June is shoulder season in Thailand and Central Vietnam and a good time to find a hotel deal before the European school holidays begin.

• Chinlone Festival lasts for almost a month. This Mandalay festival sees hundreds of chinlone (cane ball) teams compete in the traditional sport of Myanmar to live music.

Visiting Southeast Asia in July

It’s peak season on Malaysia’s east coast and in Indonesia with great visibility for diving but higher prices and busier resorts. Good orangutan sightings and turtles on the beaches makes Borneo a popular destination. Central Vietnam is hot and sunny and cruising along the Chindwin River in Myanmar is at its peak but the rains make road travel difficult.

• Borneo Cultural Festival is a ten-day annual festival held in Sibu with music performances, contests and plenty of good food.
• Rainforest Music Festival brings renowned world musicians and indigenous musicians of Borneo gather in Kuching to perform, with lectures and workshops for visitors.

Visiting Southeast Asia in August

A great time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit Borneo, the weather is hot and dry in August with turtle hatchlings on the beaches and great trekking but busy hotels. It’s peak season in Indonesia with great weather for temple visits, jungle hikes or relaxing on the beach, and the Malaysian east coast beaches are hot and sunny. Book well in advance.

• Taungbyone Nat Festival is a major gathering place for spiritual mediums in Mandalay. This festival attracts pilgrims and visitors in their thousands to make offerings and enjoy dances and other celebrations in honor of two famous nats (spirits).
• Yadana Gu Nat Festival is an eight-day festival in Amarapura in Myanmar, led by spirit mediums said to be possessed by nats (spirits) during the ceremony. Ritual dances and songs are performed and visitors make offerings of food, flowers and money to the nats.

Visiting Southeast Asia in September

Borneo is fine and dry throughout, so it's still a very appealing time to visit for relaxing on the beach, snorkeling and wildlife watching on Kinabatangan River. The weather in Indonesia also continues to be hot and dry but the summer crowds have eased and prices have dropped making it a great time to visit.

• Borneo International Kite Festival sees hundreds gather at Old Bintulu Airport to fly brightly decorated and complex kites.
• Pchum Ben is an important Buddhist festival marked throughout Cambodia over 15 days, with the main celebrations taking place on the final day as locals pay their respects to deceased relatives.

Visiting Southeast Asia in October

Dry weather begins to return to Laos and Cambodia with the landscape looking particularly lush after the rains. There are few visitors and early season offers make it a good value time to visit. Northern Vietnam is dry and sunny making it a good time to trek in Sapa, and it’s prime season for diving in Sipadan off Borneo.

• Boun Ok Phansa is a boat racing festival celebrated at the end of the rainy season in Laos. Elaborate boats are raced along the Mekong River and various festivities take place on the riverbank in honor of the Naga king.
• Deepavali/Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is celebrated throughout Borneo as families gather to pray and give gifts.

Visiting Southeast Asia in November

Temperatures rise and the weather is dry across Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar marking the start of the high season with rising prices and greater numbers of visitors. It’s a particularly good time to get out on Tonle Sap lake in Cambodia or go river cruising in Laos, but book well in advance.

• Bon Om Touk, the Cambodian water festival and one of the nation's most popular events, is celebrated over three days with concerts and boat races in Phnom Penh.
• That Luang Festival is a three-day religious festival in Vientiane where tens of thousands of monks and pilgrims gather at the That Luang or Grand Stupa bearing wax candles.

Visiting Southeast Asia in December

Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar are hot and dry and at the start of their peak season, book early to avoid disappointment and visit earlier in the month to avoid the most popular times around Christmas when prices rise considerably. It’s also the start of the peak season in the Philippines, though there is still a small risk of cyclones.

Our recommendations for when to visit Southeast Asia

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January in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Luis Castaneda Inc. / Getty Images

January in Asia can be cold but festive, assuming you aren't in Thailand or neighboring countries where the dry, sunny weather is ideal. January is also a pleasant time to travel in India.

Many large holidays and New Year celebrations stretch for a week or so after January 1. The Lunar New Year, known widely as Chinese New Year, is the largest holiday in Asia. On some years, the 15-day event falls in January and provides a second fresh start for anyone who already needs a "do over" for their resolutions!

While countries in East Asia such as Korea and China will still be freezing cold , there are certainly fewer tourists clogging popular sights. Meanwhile, much of Southeast Asia (excluding Indonesia and East Timor where monsoon season is bringing rain) and India will be enjoying dry, warm weather.

January is an excellent time to enjoy pleasant weather in Thailand and surrounding countries such as Cambodia and Laos before heat and humidity climb to brutal levels in March and April.

Lunar New Year in Asia

Make no mistake, if you're traveling anywhere in Asia on a year when the Lunar New Year holiday hits in January, your trip may be affected. You won't have to be anywhere near China; destinations as far away as Pai in Thailand get busier.

Millions of people in the region take advantage of a week away from work. They pack into many of Asia's top destinations , driving up hotel prices. With so many people on the move, flight prices tend to go up and transportation gets bogged down.

Monsoon Season in Bali

Although the delights of Bali can be enjoyed in some form or another throughout the year, January is often the rainiest month on the island. Beach days can get dreary as monsoon season peaks. Runoff causes poor visibility for diving and snorkeling unless you visit sites farther away from the island. But there is some good news: Bali will be far less crowded than during the peak months (summer) !

Asia Weather in January

(average high / low temperatures and humidity)

• Bangkok: 91 F (32.8 C) / 73 F (22.8 C) / 64 percent humidity
• Kuala Lumpur: 90 F (32.2 C) / 75 F (23.9 C) / 80 percent humidity
• Bali: 87 F (30.6 C) / 77 F (25 C) / 82 percent humidity
• Singapore: 87 F (30.5 C) / 76 F (24.4 C) / 81 percent humidity
• Beijing: 36 F (2.2 C) / 18 F (minus 7.8 C) / 44 percent humidity
• Tokyo: 49 F (9.4 C) / 40 F (4.4 C) / 44 percent humidity
• New Delhi: 69 F (20.5 C) / 46 F (7.8 C) / 73 percent humidity

Average Rainfall for January in Asia

• Bangkok: 1.06 inches (27 mm) / average of 1.8 days with precipitation
• Kuala Lumpur: 4.64 inches (118 mm) / average of 17 days with precipitation
• Bali: 5.55 (141 mm) inches / average of 16 days with precipitation
• Singapore: 3.14 inches (80 mm) / average of 17 days with precipitation
• Beijing: 2.7 inches (69 mm) / average of 2 days with precipitation
• Tokyo: 0.32 inch (8 mm) / average of 6 days with precipitation
• New Delhi: 0.40 inches (10 mm) / average of 3 days with precipitation

January is a month to enjoy perfect weather in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Burma—albeit high season. Warm days, dry weather, and relatively low humidity are ideal for exploring outdoor sights such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia .

In Southeast Asia, Vietnam's unique shape makes Hanoi an exception. Although most of Vietnam is warm in January, northern destinations such around Hanoi will still feel surprisingly cool, especially in the evenings. The average low there is 56 degrees F (13.3 C).

East Asia will be cold, maybe even inundated with snow. Meanwhile, India will be dry and warm throughout the subcontinent—excluding northern destinations at higher elevations near the Himalayas. January is a good month for exploring Rajasthan, India's desert state .

Places with the Best Weather

• Vietnam (Hanoi and the north can still feel chilly)
• Burma/Myanmar
• Langkawi and Penang in Malaysia
• Much of Sri Lanka (especially the south beaches such as Unawatuna )
• South India
• New Delhi, India

Places with the Worst Weather

• China (cold)
• Japan (cold; Okinawa and the islands in the south are an exception)
• Korea (cold)
• Kuching in Malaysian Borneo (heavy rain)
• North India (cold)
• Tioman Island, Malaysia (rain / rough seas)
• Perhentian Islands , Malaysia (rain / rough seas)
• Bali (rain)

What to Pack

If traveling to East Asian destination such as China, Korea, or Japan, you're definitely going to need warm clothing. Even places such as Hong Kong with moderate temperatures will feel chilly at night. The same applies to Nepal and any other destination at higher elevation than usual. Popular stops in northern Thailand can feel cool with temperatures in the 50s F at night after afternoons in the upper 80s F.

For Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore, have a good way to waterproof your passport and electronics in case you're caught in one of the frequent, pop-up showers.

If your trip coincides with Lunar New Year, you may wish to pack something red to wear for good luck . But don't worry: Shops will be filled with red items you can purchase for the event!

January Events in Asia

Many big winter holidays in Asia are based on lunisolar calendars; dates change from year to year. If you happen to be in one of the festival epicenters, things will get busy. These major events have the potential to land in January—be prepared and enjoy!

• Thaipusam : (January or February) Thaipusam is celebrated by Hindu Tamil communities throughout India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia—especially in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur . Thaipusam is one of the largest Indian celebrations. Some devotees volunteer to pierce their bodies with skewers to honor Lord Murugan, the god of war, as a large procession floods the streets. The Batu Caves outside Kuala Lumpur is a major epicenter for the event.
• Republic Day in India : (January 26) Republic Day, not to be confused with India's Independence Day on August 15, is one of three national holidays in India. The patriotic day celebrates India's adoption of a republic constitution on January 26, 1950.
• Thailand Full Moon Party : (monthly; on or close to the night of the full moon). The monthly Full Moon Party has grown into quite a spectacle. The event literally changes the flow of backpacking travelers through Thailand. January is a big month; people celebrate New Year's Eve and again for the full moon later in the month. As many as 30,000 revelers gather at Haad Rin on the island of Koh Phangan to dance in the sand; the party just gets going at sunrise! Transportation to and from the islands on the gulf side of Thailand is affected leading up to and after the party.
• Vietnamese Tet : (usually same as Lunar New Year) The Vietnamese Lunar New Year is big and loud! The streets of Saigon are chaotic with parties, firecrackers, and performances. The date for Tet typically coincides with Chinese New Year and is one of the most festive times to visit Vietnam .
• Shogatsu : (January 1 – 3) The Japanese New Year celebration stretches into the first few days of January. Many businesses close as people celebrate by visiting shrines and enjoying special food. Lunar New Year is also observed as a traditional New Year, however, January 1 has been the "official" start of the new year in Japan since 1873.

January Travel Tips

Although the weather in Singapore is fairly consistent year-round , November, December, and January are often the wettest months. You won't really have to worry about being chilly while traveling Singapore in January, but you should carry your umbrella at all times!

Tips for Traveling During Lunar New Year

The dates for Lunar New Year vary from year to year , however, the world's most widely celebrated festival usually falls in January or sometimes February. Yes, the numbers of celebrations even beat out Christmas and New Year's Eve. Expect millions of people to be traveling and filling up popular destinations throughout Asia before and after.

Plan on street stages, performances such as lion dances, cultural traditions , and yes, lots of fireworks meant to frighten away malicious spirits in the new year.

Book ahead to enjoy Chinese New Year, and know that you will have lots of company on the road!

Some Lunar New Year dates that fall in January:

• 2020: January 25
• 2023: January 22
• 2025: January 29

Tips for Traveling During Monsoon Season

The term "monsoon season" conjures images of a heavy, perpetual, vacation-ruining deluge. Sometimes that is the case, but more often, you can enjoy traveling during a country's monsoon season —with a few additional perks, even.

Rain may hold off for days or simply be a heavy, refreshing shower in the afternoon that provides an excuse to duck indoors or go shopping. The air is often cleaner during monsoon season as dust and pollutants get purged.

Because rainy months usually coincide with "low" season, deals are easier to find. Prices for accommodation are often lower during the monsoon season. Tour rates are also lower . But depending on the destination, many businesses may close up shop for the low-season months, so you might have less choices.

February in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

July in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

December in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

June in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

March in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

August in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Winter in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Top Ten Reasons to Visit Singapore

May in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Winter Festivals and Holidays in Asia

Spring in Asia: Weather and Event Guide

September in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

October in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Asia in April: Weather, Festivals, and Where to Go

Traveling to Asia in November

Winter in Thailand: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Weather & when to go: January

Our best destinations in january.

A great month to travel in Sri Lanka, with the beaches along the south and south-west coast all expecting plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall throughout the month, and temperatures averaging at around 30 °C.

North Thailand is likely to be cool and dry, enjoying a refreshing breeze, perfect conditions for visitors in need of a break from the heat further south. Bangkok is also dry although warmer due in part to its lower altitude. In the south, conditions on the beaches are similar from one coast to the other, however whilst on the west you can expect little if any rain, the east will most likely be feeling the tail end of its rainy season and therefore the odd short shower is to be expected, especially early in the month. On both coasts you can expect a cooling breeze...

Vietnam returns to its best with dry conditions expected throughout much of the country. Both the north and south enjoy sunshine whilst the central region steps out of its wet season, meaning the beaches of Hoi An, Danang and Nha Trang are back on the menu (joining the in season Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne). There is a variation in the temperature from one end of the country to the other with the south being close to its hottest and the north experiencing cooler weather.

January is amongst the best months for travel in India with excellent weather throughout other than the Himalayan region where some parts are inaccessible due to heavy snow…

Throughout January you can expect good weather conditions throughout Cambodia, with blue skies, little or no rain and pleasant temperatures (avg temp: 26 °C). Slightly cooler temperatures can be experienced in the more hilly regions of Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri.

The dry season continues during the month of January in Laos, promising premium travelling conditions. Comfortable average temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and minimal rainfall can be expected across the country. 

January is a great month to visit most of Malaysia, however the east coast destinations such as Tioman Island, Perhentian Islands, Terengganu and Redang Island will still be gripped by heavy rains and strong winds.

Excellent conditions are expected throughout Myanmar in January as temperatures begin to rise and the dry season continues. In the south and along the west coast the beaches will be basking in sunshine, whilst the chill in the foothills and Shan region starts to lessen. The central plains will also be dry and hot although more manageable than in the months to come...

Also expecting good weather conditions in January

Whilst January is one of the coldest months of the year in Nepal it can be a good month to visit. Typically the days are cold but see plenty of sunshine in cloudless skies. It's low season, so there are fewer tourists around, meaning you can soak up the timeless atmosphere of places like Kathmandu in peace and tranquillity. Trekking is possible, but probably best left until later in the year as there's snow at high altitude and temperatures frequently dip below zero...

It may be mid-winter, with night time temperatures plummeting far below zero in some parts of the country and many areas inaccessible due to snowfall, but January is still quite a popular time of year to visit Tibet. Visitor numbers tend to be significantly reduced, and in lower altitude destinations such as Lhasa the weather is usually quite pleasant. This is the coldest, windiest month of the year in Tibet, but the skies are beautifully clear, allowing for some truly sublime mountain panoramas...

Destinations with mixed weather conditions in January

January is mid-winter in Bhutan, and typically the coldest month of the year. Temperatures can fall well below zero at night, especially in the mountainous north and the west, and heavy snow makes some more remote areas difficult to reach. Yet rainfall is typically low during winter, and skies clear, allowing for magnificent views. There is much to recommend a January holiday in Bhutan, especially if you stick mainly to lower elevations...

South Korea

Be prepared for freezing temperatures and a blanket of snow across much of South Korea during January. Temperatures in Seoul in the north of the country will range from -7°C to 3°C, whereas the southern coast is milder, with Jeju Island expecting a minimum of 5°C and a maximum of 11°C. It may be cold but it will be dry as there is very little rain in the South Korean winter...

Destinations expecting poor weather conditions in January

January is one of the wettest months of the year in Borneo, particularly in Sarawak. Torrential downpours are the norm (making trekking activities problematic) and sunny days are few and far between. However, travellers to Borneo at this time of year will benefit from fewer crowds and discounted rates. 

Whilst much of Indonesia experiences very wet weather in January, the further east you look the brighter the outlook gets - visitors to the likes of West Papua, Raja Ampat and the Moluccas Islands are in for a real treat.

You may not find much sunshine in Japan during January, however the Winter Wonderland scenery is spectacular, and for any ski aficionados and photographers the snow, Mount Fuji landscape and hot springs in the mainland make January a very tempting option. Likewise if warm weather isn’t your style anyway then the crisp weather in Kyoto and Tokyo make it a great time for some sightseeing with lower crowds and some iconic views.

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South East Asia Tours in January 2025

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250+ South East Asia trips in January 2025

• Christmas & New Year

Bangkok to Singapore: Jungle Hikes & Island Nights

My tour was amazing thanks to Pimm!! She made it a trip to remember and it went very smoothly thanks to get great planning. Everyone on the group loved Pimm :). Overall the tour was the best holiday I have ever been one, I will definitely recommend G adventures and this tour to all my friends.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

10 Days in Vietnam From South to North

Vietnam South to North Good tour well run. Favorite spots Hoi An and Halong Bay. One big city was enough for us, Hanoi not so appealing.

21 days Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

21 Days Thailand Laos Vietnam Cambodia We had a great time on this tour! My husband and I had wanted to go to South East Asia for some time, and we were looking for a trip that would give us a realistic overview in the month we had available. We knew we wanted to get to Thailand (my favorite cuisine), Vietnam (lots of history and, again, the food), and Cambodia (Angor Wat), and thought, why not throw in Laos? This itinerary looked really ambitious but like it had a good balance of travel, activity, and leisure. Hoi An Adventures is a Vietnamese company, so we weren’t surprised that Vietnam got a disproportionate focus to the other countries. What we loved: Our gut instinct about the itinerary was spot on. Yes, we covered a lot of ground. I hadn’t quite realized just how many flights we’d take, but with one overnight train trip and five flights, we were able to see some amazing parts of each of the four countries. It’s hard picking highlights, as there were so many. Certainly, Halong Bay and Hoi An. The unexpected jewel of the trip was Luang Prabang, Laos, a town I’d never even heard of before this trip. Thanks for including it and for allowing us four nights there and free time just to wander its magical streets! There were, of course, lots of places we’d have liked to get that we didn’t have a chance to. But if/when we’re back, we’ll have a pretty good idea of where we want to go and how to get there. We also applaud the hotel choices. In each city except Chiang Mai, we were right in the heart of the town. The Chiang Mai hotel wasn’t bad, but quite possibly because we were further away from the activity, that was our least favorite stop. (It also made us more appreciative of all the others being actually in the towns.) The hotels themselves ranged from perfectly adequate (the Ho Chi Minh City hotel was one of only two “deluxe” hotels, and it was the least impressive) to rustically charming (the Luang Prabang guesthouse, Lao Wooden House, which we loved) to old world elegance (Siem Reap, City View). What we liked: the excursions were all pretty good. The guides English varied significantly. All were able to speak well enough to convey information, and some were able to understand it well enough to answer questions. All seemed passionate about their subject matter. Favorite guides included River in Hoi An and Top in Ho Chi Minh City, but we learned from all of them. We particularly appreciated the tour through a local market in Luang Prabang and the temples off the beaten track in Angor Wat. The tailored garment in Hoi An was a terrific souvenir. We liked the ratio of time committed to excursions and free time—though we had a travel companion who was unhappy the time wasn’t more scheduled, so opinions can vary on that. Being dropped off and picked up from all transportation hubs made traveling really easy. It’s the first time we’ve had that benefit, and it made us converts. What we liked less: Not Hoi An Tours’ fault, but my husband and I wound up traveling with one other person throughout our trip. That enforced intimacy can be a bit awkward. More people on the tour would have given each of the three of us more opportunities to find people who meshed with us and shared our interests. In some cities we paired up with other small groups, which was nice and gave us a bigger pool of new acquaintances to share the experience with. In the past we’ve been on trips with 10 or so other people, and sharing new experiences with them has been one of the benefits of travel. It’s luck of the draw, as the tour will go on with a minimum of two people. If you sign up, maybe you can get some friends or family to go with you! Communication hit some snags here and there. We made our initial reservation through Tour Radar, and all the communications that went on through that portal were fine. Unfortunately, someone in the Hoi An Tours office entered my email address incorrectly, and we had trouble getting some messages, not knowing we were missing them. They absolutely tried! They gave us a mobile phone, presumably so we could contact them easily. And any time we contacted them through the working email portal, they got back to us quickly. There were some variances between the itinerary we did finally receive and what actually occurred. For example, we were told we’d be on an upgraded boat on Halong Bay, but when we got there, we weren’t. So the stated features and activities didn’t jibe with what we actually received. Our itinerary also had some differing times and activities from the one our traveling companion had, which led to some confusion. Overall, this was a great trip and we would recommend it highly! We’ll relive the vibrant traffic of Bangkok, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City and treasure our memories of the Mekong River and Delta, the floating lanterns of Hoi An, the charming back streets of Luang Prabang, and the warmth and welcome of Siem Reap. Can’t wait to plan our next trip.

Vietnam and Cambodia - 12 Days. Departure every Monday from Hanoi

From booking to exit from Cambodia our private holiday was perfect. Legend Travel Group hosted by Toni Bui and Danny Nguyen were on the top of their game. There were many comms weeks before we travelled, and each one was clear and all requests accepted, with a reasonable charge of course. We were met at each airport and before each excursion by excellent guides and drivers. The guides were very well informed and enthusiastic. The best in Vietnam was Tiat in Saigon, but Tian in Hanoi, June in Hoi An and Borel in Phnom Penh, Ron and Raty in Siem Reap ere also good. We were able to determine our schedules and start times but relied on our guides to advise us which they did very well and politely. The drivers were excellent especially in Hanoi and Saigon where the traffic can only be seen to be believed! We went 5* with our hotel choices. They were variable in how 5* they were. Du Lac hotel in Hanoi was out of the French district but was only £1 ride in a Grab taxi, or 30 minutes walk. KOI resort and spa was lovely in Hoi A but was again away from the Old Town where the atmosphere was. A bit further out with a £1.50 Grab needed. It would have been better to be closer. The Majestic Hotel was lovely, in a great location. They tried to put us in a room without windows but quickly found another windowed room at the back of the hotel. It was okay but there was air con machine noise outside. The best 5* hotels were in Cambodia. The Palace Gate in Phnom Penh was literally outside the palace gates and also near nice restaurants etc. But again the room was next to a building site. Luckily our day started early to prepare for our excursions when building noise started at 7am. The best hotel of our trip was Angkor Village. An oasis in the middle of the city. Quiet, lush and peaceful. The staff were exemplary. Would definitely recommend these 2 Cambodian hotels. Throughout Danny was our point of contact via WhatsApp. He was responsive and helpful, and made every effort to make our holiday of a lifetime, perfect. And it was. Thank you to Danny and Toni.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• Sightseeing

Amazing Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam 18 days

This tour definitely gives you more than what you expect. The guide Sam in Cambodia was knowledgeable, honest, and genuine. This tour checks the bucket list you may have from each country. We would recommend this trip.

Bangkok to Bali Adventure: Street Eats & Beaches

Bangkok to Singapore

Had a lovely time with Ae our tour leader. The activities were amazing and the sites were very beautiful. We were busy all day everyday with things to see and do! Never a dull moment. Ae was an amazing tour leader! Very calm, patient and helpful. She’s quite funny and kept the group laughing. Loved her positive upbeat energy and just had an amazing time! The optional Phi Phi Island tour is not to be missed, inner tubing down the lake at the rainforest hotel and the eco bike ride in Malaysia

• Local Living

Bangkok to Kuta: Summits & Sunsets

Northern Thailand Adventure

Overall this was a great tour that was filled with do many things that I can cherish forever, the only thing id say is that sometimes the heat was unbearable for some of the things we wanted to do like the hikes. I think for the waterfalls, there should be an alternative or accomodation for people who really struggle with climbing up all those steps. We had the best tour guides ever, Pui and Gogi were amazing! Informative, fun, and always there to help us when needed!

• Island Hopping

Thailand Island Hopper

I had an excellent experience of Thailand with this tour. It really gave a great taste of what southern Thailand is like and I thought it was a great way to travel solo.

Wanderlands Bali & Lombok - 13 Days

Die Tour war sehr gut organisiert und es war sehr viel inklusive. Bei anderen Touren haben deutlich mehr Aktivitäten extra gekostet. Hier kam nur das Essen und persönliche Ausgaben dazu. Die Harmonie in der Gruppe war auch durch den Guide (Zio) sehr gut und locker. dadurch das man direkt am ersten Tag mit Tempel und Surfen viel erlebt hat war dies sehr bonding. :) Die Gruppe war sehr gut und von den Aktivitäten war für jeden was dabei und sehr unterschiedlich. von relaxen über Kultur und Surfen und Schnorcheln.

• €145 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Cambodia & Northern Thailand

Phil was great! We really enjoyed our vacation with G Adventures! It was great to experience Cambodia and Thailand

Philippines One Life Adventures - 10 Days

You see a lot of beutiful things that you wont see by yourself. Its nice to meet people from other countries. And you learn a lot about the Philippines and the culture.

Essential Vietnam

We had a terrific guide Binh Bui Van who was very thorough and looked after our group of ten 24/7, We did the trip from Hanoi to the Mekong delta and it was an adventure from day one, Binh explained the history and culture of Vietnam as we went along, we did planes,trains,boats,trekking,bikes, motorbikes kayaks,ate delicious foods and mete a lot of very friendly locals all the time watched over by our guide Binh, He organised us from day one so we had no waiting around going from hotel to a bus or taxi to our next destination, I am 71 and my wife 61 and found no problem doing this trip,which included a 14 km walk to a village in the mountains for a homestay, brilliant. Thank you Binh.

10 Days Beauty of Indochina

This was a great tour. Nice balance between organized activities and down time. Each city, hotel and tour guide was unique and had it's own style and personality.

What people love about South East Asia Tours in January

Embarking on the "Jungle Hikes & Island Nights" group journey from Bangkok to Singapore was an adventure of a lifetime, magnificently organized and flawlessly executed. From start to finish, the expedition was a resounding success, thanks to impeccable planning and an itinerary that promised—and delivered—an extraordinary experience. The locations we explored were nothing short of spectacular, offering us a diverse palette of experiences that ranged from the serenity of lush jungles to the vibrant nightlife on picturesque islands. The balance between exhilarating hikes and lively parties was just right, ensuring that every day was filled with new adventures and opportunities to create lasting memories. A significant part of this trip's charm was the fantastic group of fellow travelers I had the fortune to journey with. It's rare to find such a harmonious blend of personalities and backgrounds, but we clicked instantly, transforming a group of strangers into lifelong friends. The camaraderie that developed amongst us added a whole new layer of enjoyment to the experience. A special shoutout is deserved for our CEO, Fon, whose expertise, passion, and warm personality made her not just a guide, but a true friend. Her dedication to ensuring that we all had an incredible time was evident in every aspect of the trip. Fon, you are a gem, and your efforts were genuinely appreciated by all of us! However, no adventure is without its lessons. The pace of the tour, while exhilarating, sometimes felt a bit rushed. Extending the itinerary by a day or two could provide a more relaxed pace, allowing for some much-needed rest days amidst the action-packed schedule. For travelers like myself, towering over 185cm, be prepared for a squeeze, especially on the night trains which proved to be quite the challenge. An additional note for future adventurers: consider booking an extra night in Singapore to fully explore the wonders this city has to offer. The tour's conclusion in Singapore feels like just the beginning of another adventure waiting to be discovered. In summary, the "Jungle Hikes & Island Nights" trip from Bangkok to Singapore was an unforgettable journey filled with incredible sights, sounds, and experiences. While there's room for minor adjustments, the overall experience was profoundly impactful, leaving us with memories to cherish for a lifetime. To those seeking adventure, camaraderie, and a touch of magic, this journey comes highly recommended.

Was a great experience! Thank you

Everything worked as planned. Great tour and amazing guides

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18 Best Asia destinations in January of 2024

Asia is obviously enormous and January is one of the best months to visit because so many of the tropical cities have the nicest month of the year now. You probably don’t want to visit Tokyo or Beijing in January so our list below of 18 great cities with very good weather should be a good place to get some trip-planning ideas.

We check prices for hotels every year and it’s surprising that for January of 2024 many of the great Asian cities on our list are much cheaper than they had been for the last few years. You can now book a really nice hotel in many of the cities below for US$50 or less, which means if you can spend US$100 per night you can afford something resembling a fancy chain hotel that would cost US$300 per night in most of Europe or North America. In other words, this is looking like a really good year for a trip to multiple places in Asia if you’ve got some time off in January.

Note: This article was updated as of September, 2023

Important Asia holidays in 2024

• January 1 – New Year’s Day (public holiday in most of the world)
• January 26 – Republic Day in India (major national public holiday)

18 Best destinations in Asia for January

Bangkok, thailand.

• January avg high: 90°F/32°C
• January avg low: 70°F/21°C
• January avg precip: 0.4″/1.0cm

Bangkok is also the ideal starting point and hub for any exploration of southeast Asia. The large airport has cheap flights coming in from all directions, as well as cheap flights out to everywhere worthwhile in the region. Hotel rates are looking unusually cheap for January of 2024 so this could be a great year to visit.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $23 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $38 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $8 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Bangkok >>> Bangkok prices and travel tips

Phuket, Thailand

• January avg high: 89°F/32°C
• January avg low: 74°F/23°C
• January avg precip: 1.2″/3.0cm

This month Phuket is mostly filled with Europeans and a few Aussies, with groups of men mostly focusing on the Patong Beach nightlife. Families usually feel more comfortable in Kata or Karon Beach, just to the south of Patong. Overall value is very good, but beachfront hotels are expensive and so are most tourist restaurants. Hotel rates are looking very appealing in January of 2024, even compared to the last few years. This could be a good year to combine Bangkok (above) and Phuket on a city/beach holiday.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $24 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $34 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $11 per person

>>> Check hotel and resort deals for Phuket >>> Phuket prices and travel tips

Chiang Mai, Thailand

• January avg high: 84°F/29°C
• January avg low: 57°F/14°C
• January avg precip: 0.3″/0.8cm

Chiang Mai is also famously one of the  world’s cheapest cities for tourists . Hotels are amazingly cheap for what you get, and it’s quite easy to find cheap meals and drinks as well. The city itself isn’t Thailand’s most photogenic, but the surrounding area has many great things to see and do, including some top notch trekking. As with so many Asian cities in warmer climates, the Night Market in Chiang Mai is one of the top attractions, even during the cooler months.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $18 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $27 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Chiang Mai >>> Chiang Mai prices and travel tips

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• January avg low: 73°F/23°C
• January avg precip: 6.7″/16.8cm

This city is a very modern mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, and since English is one of the official languages it’s much easier to visit than most others on this list. KL, as it’s called locally, is also a nice and exotic mix of what you will find in Bangkok and the more modern things you’ll find in Singapore, and at a surprisingly reasonable price as well. Alcohol in bars and restaurants can be expensive, but almost everything else feels like outstanding value.

Hotel rates in January of 2024 are looking cheaper this year than last year. Book carefully though because often the cheapest rooms in hotels here have no outside window and for most people it’s worth paying more for some natural light.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $32 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $36 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $7 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Kuala Lumpur >>> Kuala Lumpur prices and travel tips

• January avg high: 85°F/29°C
• January avg low: 75°F/24°C
• January avg precip: 9.9″/24.8cm

As its popularity has steadily increased, Singapore has actually become the  most expensive city for tourists in Asia , but it’s small enough to see in 2 or 3 days and once you have your hotel booked it’s possible to find great and cheap food. The airport is also so nice that it’s worth a visit all by itself.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $85 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $140 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $20 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Singapore >>> Singapore prices and travel tips

Siem Reap, Cambodia

• January avg low: 69°F/21°C
• January avg precip: 0.1″/0.3cm

You’ll want to set aside at least one full day and probably the evening before to visit Angkor Wat (using a special one-day ticket), and the perfect January weather will make it all the nicer. You can get in by bus from Bangkok or Phnom Penh, but those in a hurry will probably want to fly in. Hotels are looking very cheap in 2024, but it’s still probably better to splurge for something nicer instead of booking one of the cheapest places.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $15 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $20 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $4 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Siem Reap >>> Siem Reap prices and travel tips

Luang Prabang, Laos

• January avg high: 82°F/28°C
• January avg low: 58°F/14°C
• January avg precip: 0.5″/1.3cm

Some people arrive on the famous slow boat that takes 2 full days from the Thailand border, and that is an interesting experience by itself. But you can also arrive by a new high-speed train from  Vientiane  if you don’t want to fly.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $27 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $65 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Luang Prabang >>> Luang Prabang prices and travel tips

Hanoi, Vietnam

• January avg high: 66°F/19°C
• January avg precip: 0.8″/2.0cm

Hanoi is also the culinary capital of Vietnam, which has arguably the best cuisine in all of Asia. Things here are also amazingly cheap, so it’s a popular place for long-term travelers to stay for a while. The nearby Halong Bay is a must-visit, as you can take a 2-night or 3-night sightseeing cruise for next to nothing.

• Good 4-star hotels in January from $26 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $6 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Hanoi >>> Hanoi prices and travel tips

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• January avg precip: 0.6″/1.5cm

Ho Chi Minh City has a large airport so you can fly in from any major city in the region and even some large cities from much farther away. Many people fly into Hanoi and then take the train south to Ho Chi Minh City, or the other way around. If you do that you’ll definitely want to stop for a few days in  Hoi An  on the way. Things here are a bit more expensive than in Hanoi, but still cheap by any other standards.

• Good 4-star hotels in January from $24 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Ho Chi Minh City >>> Ho Chi Minh City prices and travel tips

• January avg precip: 1.0″/2.5cm

Hotels in Hong Kong are quite expensive for Asia, but it’s still possible to get reasonable deals at hotels with good locations on Hong Kong Island itself. It’s worth noting that many cheaper hotels in Hong Kong get poor reviews compared to other Asian cities. In other words, it’s important to choose a hotel carefully. The restaurant scene and nightlife here are also both among the best in Asia, though you do have to prepare to spend a bit to participate.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $76 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $104 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $22 per person

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Hong Kong >>> Hong Kong prices and travel tips

Boracay Island, Philippines

• January average high: 82°F/28°C
• January average low: 73°F/23°C
• January avg precip: 3.7″/9.3cm

Hotels on Boracay Island aren’t exactly cheap, but that’s partly because nearly every one of them is directly on the beach or only a 1-minute walk from the sand. This long and thin island has a gorgeous beach along most of its west coast, so when you look at it on a map you’ll discover that every hotel is very well located. The eastern coast is home to some of Asia’s best wind surfing, in case that appeals to you.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $42 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $55 for two people

>>> Check Boracay resort deals >>> Boracay Island prices and travel tips

Malé, Maldives

• January avg low: 77°F/25°C
• January avg precip: 4.5″/11.3cm

Water villas in the Maldives  start at around US$400 per night, but you can get a huge water villa with a private Jacuzzi on a private deck starting at around US$600 per night with all meals included at  Meeru Island Resort . Those on tighter budgets can get island rooms at these same resorts starting at around US$100 and going way up from there.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $81 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $95 for two people

>>> Malé prices and travel tips

Pokhara, Nepal

• January avg high: 61°F/16°C
• January avg low: 39°F/4°C
• January avg precip: 0.7″/1.8cm

If you just want to chill out and relax in a fun town, Pokhara is perhaps the cheapest city in the world to do that. The trekking adventures that most people come here for aren’t quite so cheap though, so it can balance out.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $11 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $39 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $5 per person

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Pokhara >>> Pokhara prices and travel tips

Colombo, Sri Lanka

• January avg high: 88°F/31°C
• January avg low: 72°F/22°C
• January avg precip: 2.3″/5.8cm

The tourist infrastructure of Sri Lanka lags behind many others in the region, and that’s partly why there are very few hostels and cheaper hotels. The good news is that there are plenty of mid-priced hotels that offer good value, so it’s still a very affordable destination for most of us. The country has been going through some problems in the last couple of years with shortages and inflation, but tourists are now returning and early 2024 should be a good time to come with hotel rates being lower than usual.

• Good 4-star hotels in January from $40 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Colombo >>> Colombo prices and travel tips

Taipei, Taiwan

• January avg low: 56°F/13°C
• January avg precip: 3.4″/8.5cm

As a relatively rich country, Taiwan is a bit more expensive than most of China and many of its other neighbors, but it’s also very modern with a lot to see. The main museum here has more Chinese art and artifacts than any museum in China itself, for example.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $49 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $68 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $16 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Taipei >>> Taipei prices and travel tips

Delhi/New Delhi, India

• January avg high: 70°F/21°C
• January avg low: 43°F/6°C

Nearly everything here is cheap, although some hotels in the nicer parts of New Delhi are on the pricey side. The airport is new and modern, and the metro system is as well, making getting in and out and around much easier than just a few years ago. Quality at cheaper hotels in India is below the standards of some other countries so it’s important to find a place with a lot of positive reviews and do more research than usual.

• Good 4-star hotels in January from $25 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for New Delhi >>> Delhi/New Delhi prices and travel tips

• January avg low: 67°F/19°C

Goa is actually a state rather than a city, and it has about a dozen different beach areas to choose from. Some are famous for beach parties and electronic music, while others are better for families. Choosing your actual area is key, but once you get there pretty much everything is fabulously cheap.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $20 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $51 for two people

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Goa >>> Goa prices and travel tips

Mumbai, India

• January avg high: 87°F/31°C
• January avg low: 62°F/17°C
• January avg precip: 0.0″/0.0cm

One challenge is that the tourist-friendly parts of the city are surrounded by water in the south, so real estate is limited and hotel prices are fairly high. At least January has fantastic weather, which helps take the edge off of the crowd situation.

• Good 3-star hotels in January from $43 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in January from $102 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in January from $14 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Mumbai >>> Mumbai prices and travel tips

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18 Best Asia destinations in January of 2024 " --> All Comments

HEY ROGER..HOW ARE YOU. I AM PLANNING FOR MY ANNIVERSARY TRIP FOR DURATION 25-30 JANUARY MEANS NEARLY 7 DAYS TRIP.AS PER YOUR ABOVE SUGGESTION I HAVE DECIDED FOR COMBINATION OF SINGAPORE AND KUALA LUMPAR. I WILL GO FROM DELHI INDIA. WHAT YOUR SUGGESTION ABOUT THIS OR ANY OTHER PLACES.

I love both of those cities and I’m sure you’ll have a great time. I’d recommend taking a VIP bus between them, as it’s more comfortable than the train and usually cheaper as well. Kuala Lumpur’s hotels are MUCH cheaper than Singapore, so you can splurge a bit there. In Singapore the cheapest hotels rooms usually have no window at all, so be careful when you book. I don’t like hotel rooms with no windows at any price. I’m not sure what else you are wondering about, so please ask any specific questions you have. -Roger

Ep 197: South East Asia's Top 8 Travel & Tourism Talking Points in January

About This Episode

The 2023 visitor arrivals and airport passenger statistics are published, and the gloves are off. As the region prepares for a vibrant Lunar New Year travel season, 2024 is set to be the most shape-shifting year for travel since 2019. So, how has South East Asia started the year in travel and tourism terms? Gary and Hannah discuss January’s Top 8 talking points, which include bilateral visa-free travel agreements with China, proposals for a “seamless ASEAN” and a “single ASEAN airline”, plus a national MICE Sustainability certification. We also discuss the variable forecasts for visitor arrivals in 2024 and shifting post-Covid patterns of competition among Asia Pacific’s four largest airports.

Plus, we assess the origin and curtailment of a significant tax hike that caused uproar across Indonesia’s tourism industry.

Latest Episodes Catch up with the pods you may have missed

Ep 213: visa waivers, extreme weather, ai tools & ‘all-gender weddings’: revisiting the 2024 travel wishlist, ep 212: 'everyone wants to go to japan': the best bits from the south east asia travel show in april 2024.

🎙️ About The Creators 🎧

Hannah Pearson

Asia travel analyst and speaker. Director of Pear Anderson, a research & sales travel consultancy specialising in SEA and Muslim travel. Read more »

Gary Bowerman

Asia travel analyst and speaker. Co-founder and director of Check-in Asia, a travel content, marketing and market research agency. Read more »

We'd love to hear from our listeners, so please send us your comments, feedback and questions! And, if you’re interested in being a guest, drop us a note at [email protected]

One Month in Southeast Asia: Itinerary + Planning Insights

• August 22, 2019
• Affordable Travel , Art & Culture , Asia , Cambodia , China , City Escapes , Itinerary Inspiration , Laos , Luxury Travel , Road Warriors , Thailand , Travel Tips + Planning , Vietnam , Wildlife & Nature
• 10 Comments

Inspiration for a Luxurious Month in Southeast Asia’s Hotspots

UPDATE (July 2020): We are back from an incredible trip exploring some of Southeast Asia’s most famous cities, towns, and natural wonders. Below you’ll find links to our completed adventures as well, with some highlights and takeaways! 

I typically begin sharing about our fall adventure earlier in the year but this season got away from me. The countdown is officially on and we’re departing in two weeks for a bucket list trip that I’ve been dreaming about for over a decade. Southeast Asia has made our shortlist conversation every year when we debate how to spend our month away in the fall. It’s an area that really requires enough dedicated time to make any sort of dent and with the luxury of a bit of time on our side, we’ve always brainstormed what a month in this magnetic region would look like. After months – well, years, in some ways! – of giving thought to our perfect itinerary, we’re there. Below, I’m sharing our itinerary for one month in Southeast Asia, plus some planning insights and booked tours and experiences. Many of the itineraries that I’ve found online for a trip this length skew towards the backpacking/hosteling bunch so if you’re looking for a more luxe take on a similar itinerary (which, by the way, is still a great value in the scope of global travel), I hope this is helpful!

Shanghai, China {3 Nights}

HOTEL:  Shanghai EDITION  {Bookable through Marriott Bonvoy points}

My sister just moved to Shanghai so we’ll be kick-starting our adventure with three nights in Shanghai to visit her in her new home town while we acclimate to our new time zone. For beginning your trip in the region, major airports include Bangkok, Hong Kong and Singapore as well, with many direct flights from the US. Singapore Air recently announced its Newark – Singapore direct flight, and there are direct flights to Hong Kong available from many major US cities including LA, Dallas, New York, and San Francisco.

During our three nights in Shanghai, we’ve booked a couple of swanky dinners, rooftop lounges for drinks with a view, and a breakfast tour through Shanghai with Untour Food Tours . More details on our three days in Shanghai forthcoming – after we depart! – plus I’ll be sharing a full post on our food tour as well.

TIP 👉🏼 Traditionally American citizens require a visa to enter China. There are a few exceptions to this though for shorter stays. Recently, China has changed the policy to allow 72 hours visa-free in a selection of cities and up to 144 hours in some other major cities. If you’re going this route, plan on having your exit flight details printed to show upon entry.

READ MORE ON OUR ADVENTURES IN SHANGHAI ✧ A Breakfast Tour Through Shanghai •  Visiting Shanghai through China’s Visa Free Transit Program

Chiang Mai + Golden Triangle, Northern Thailand {6 nights}

HOTELS:  137 Pillars House (Chiang Mai) + Anantara Golden Triangle (Chiang Rai/Border Region)

From Shanghai, we begin the core of our adventure in Southeast Asia, starting in Northern Thailand. One of the major pieces in decision-making in terms of mapping out this itinerary was the way in which flights would work to be most sensible. When possible, I wanted one flight – no connections – between cities so we wouldn’t be wasting too much time in transit. We’ll be flying China Eastern from Shanghai to Chiang Mai direct (booked on AirFrance points, which is a great value if you have a Chase Sapphire card). We’ll have three nights in Chiang Mai including one day with a private guide (I’ll share more about that in forthcoming specific posts). Our time in Chiang Mai is followed by three nights at Anantara’s Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort where we’ll be touring the three countries (Laos, Thailand and Myanmar), enjoying a bit of pampering, and delving into some elephant learning experiences.

NOTE:  We have the luxury of time during our one month in Southeast Asia. If your time is more limited, you could combine Chiang Mai + Chiang Rai into a more condensed window. Many people do a day trip to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai for a brush with the elephants. Also note that we exclusively opted to focus on Northern Thailand during our time in the region. We live in a beach destination so the beach scene further south wasn’t as compelling for us. Your itinerary and time in Thailand may look different from this if you prefer the Thai beach scene to the jungles and temples in the north.

TIP 👉🏼 Tourist visas for Thailand are granted upon arrival for a 30-day period for US citizens. A number of visa points require a passport-sized photograph for entry. We each have 4 photos prepared for entries just in case! Again, in this instance, I’m keeping physical printouts of all ongoing flights to show departure information in case required.

READ MORE ON OUR ADVENTURES IN CHIANG MAI ✧ Three Days in Chiang Mai •  HOTEL INSIDER: A Stay at 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai

READ MORE ON OUR ADVENTURES IN THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE ✧  HOTEL INSIDER: A Stay at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort • Delving into Anantara’s Elephant Encounters • A Three Country Tour with Anantara

READ MORE ON OUR ADVENTURES IN MYANMAR ✧  A Three Country Tour with Anantara

Luang Prabang, Laos {4 nights}

HOTELS: Luang Say Cruise (1 Night, Downriver),  Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao  (Luang Prabang)

From Vietnam, we head downriver to Laos. Getting to Luang Prabang was one of our biggest question marks in this process but we knew that if possible, we’d prefer to skip the airport scene and opt for a more peaceful route. Flying from Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai would involve a layover in Bangkok and kill too much precious time with layovers and in airports. Instead, we opted to cruise downriver from the Golden Triangle to Luang Prabang on a 2 day/1 night cruise with Luang Say  (they also have a hotel in Luang Prabang if you want to combine those offerings). The cruise includes a stop in a traditional Laotian village, an overnight in Pakbeng at their accommodation, and then a stop at the Pak Ou Caves. Some of our interest in Laos generally was in visiting some smaller villages so this cruise is acting as transport, lodging, and sightseeing for us on this overnight.

From there, we’ll spend three nights in Luang Prabang at  Belmond’s La Résidence Phou Vao.  Our days include the morning Alms Giving Ceremony, a trip to Kuang Si Waterfalls and Bear Sanctuary, plus some sightseeing and temple visits in town.

TIP 👉🏼 Coordinating the cruise from the Golden Triangle to Luang Prabang was the biggest difficulty of the entire planning process. As you’d imagine, many of the cruises depart on specific days depending on whether you’re going upriver or downriver and depending on the season. Even after planning our schedule to accommodate for this we found that many of the boat operators wouldn’t take our booking as we were just two people and no one else had yet booked for our required day. A minimum of 4 people is generally required for the boat to go. I asked about paying more to compensate for being a lighter load but that wasn’t a viable option. I also asked about putting my name on a list so if other queries were to come through we could join forces to get a boat moving. Again, no luck with any operators. We were turned down flatly in almost every instance. As time drew closer and I began investigating flights I reached out to Luang Say yet again in my last-ditch attempts to finagle my way on to a cruise. As luck would have it, it was operating and we were able to get on board. All that to say that this requires coordination and you shouldn’t bank on being on a cruise until you are actually confirmed by the company. Also don’t be afraid to continue reaching out to verify options. If you’re a group (4+ people) this should be an easier proposition.

As far as visas are concerned, the Lao government issues visas on arrival for 30-day stays. A passport-sized photo is required and $30 – $42 for the visa fee is due upon arrival.

READ MORE ON OUR ADVENTURES IN LAOS ✧ Cruising to Laos Aboard the Luang Say •  Exploring Luang Prabang with Orange Robe Tours • ITINERARY INSPIRATION: Three Days in Luang Prabang

 Vietnam – North to South {13 nights}

HOTELS: O’Gallery Premier Hotel & Spa  (Hanoi), Indochina Junk (Halong + Bai Tu Long Bay), Little Riverside (Hoi An), Le Meridien Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

In some ways Vietnam is the core of our trip. It was the anchor when we started our planning and it’s also where we’ll end up spending the most time over the course of our month in Southeast Asia. Vietnam’s makeup, being long and skinny, means that travel times between cities can require flights as going overland can take days to make a given journey.

We’re starting our time in Vietnam in Hanoi where we’ll have three nights, allowing us to enjoy a walking tour, the night market, a vegetarian street food tour  and more. From there, we’ll be transferred to the starting point of our Indochina Junk cruise which provides us 2 days and 2 nights touring Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. Halong Bay is undoubtedly the most famous trip for visitors to the region but many friends who’ve visited encouraged us to add-on the additional night to get out to Bai Tu Long Bay where it’s more peaceful and clean, and where fewer tourists go on traditional trips. There are a range of operators for boating near Halong Bay, but we chose Indochina Junk because their boutique voyages appealed to us immediately with offerings like morning Tai Chi on the deck and plush staterooms.

We’ve pre-arranged transfers from our boat completion point to Cat Bi Airport (HPH) where we will catch a flight to Hoi An (Da Nang Airport) where we have 3 nights based at Little Riverside. We’re slated to spend two days in Hoi An exploring and have pre-booked a cycling adventure to My Son with Grasshopper Adventures for one of our days.

After three nights in Hoi An, we catch our final flight within Vietnam to Ho Chi Minh City where we’ll complete our time with three nights based at Le Meridien Saigon (bookable through Marriott Bonvoy points at a decent value). We’ll be doing some requisite tours in HCMC like the Cu Chi Tunnel Tour, but I’m most excited for our evening excursion with XO Tours where we’ll be jumping on motorbikes with a female-led team to eat our way through Saigon!

Click here for the Beginner’s Guide to Vietnam .

HOMEWORK:  If your knowledge of Vietnamese history is a bit muddled, I’d highly recommend the docuseries that we’ve been watching on Netflix simply titled,  The Vietnam War .  It’s an 18-hour documentary done over 10 episodes and it’s incredibly dense and super informative; an amazing primer before your trip!

TIP FOR VIETNAM VISAS 👉🏼 Vietnam is the one country that we needed to apply for visas in advance. Starting in Hanoi, we’re eligible for visas on arrival as US citizens as we’re coming in by air to a designated port. Those coming in by sea (on a cruise for example) would need to apply for visas in advance of arrival. A Visa on Arrival still requires a visa approval letter .  The process is simple enough: you’ll send in your details, pay a processing fee, and receive a document to print and show at the border when you arrive. The Vietnam visa costs $25 payable at the border if you go this route (the visa approval letter fee is additional).

READ MORE ON OUR ADVENTURES IN VIETNAM ✧  Exploring Halong and Bai Tu Long Bay with Indochina Junk • Cycling the Hoi An Countryside with Grasshopper Adventures • A First-Timer’s Guide to Tailor-Made Clothing in Hoi An   • Exploring Saigon’s Food Scene by Motorbike with XO Tours • ITINERARY INSPIRATION: Two Weeks in Vietnam

You can do this easily through iVisa – the cost is $20 per person (10% off through September 15th with this link ). See if you’re required to obtain a visa:

Siem Reap + Angkor Temples {4 nights}

HOTEL:  Jaya House River Park (Siem Reap)

We’re ending our month in Southeast Asia with a bang by visiting Angkor Wat, one of the seven wonders of the world and the largest religious monument on the planet. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap are readily available. We’ll be flying on Cambodia Angkor Air, which we booked directly through their site. When we began brainstorming our trip, Vietnam and Cambodia were the core of what we wanted to experience. A visit to Siem Reap has been on my wish list for what seems like eons and I think it’ll be a special ending to a whirlwind experience in the region. We’ve carved out four nights for Siem Reap and in addition to visiting the temples a couple of days, we’ve shortlisted a visit to the APOPO Center (to see the HeroRATs in action) and the Phare Circus (a Cirque du Soleil type offering).

There are many great hotels to choose from in Siem Reap, but we wanted something boutique-y and unique and opted for Jaya House River Park, which has an associated NGO supported through the property.

TIP 👉🏼  Cambodia also offers a visa-on-arrival program if you’re arriving into Siem Reap (or Phnom Penh) and as with the other visa processes, you’ll want to have a passport-sized photograph ready upon arrival to expedite the process.

READ MORE ON OUR ADVENTURES IN CAMBODIA ✧  Exploring Temples in Siem Reap  • Siem Reap ⏤ A Taste of Jaya Discovery • ITINERARY INSPIRATION: 4 Days in Siem Reap

If you’re planning one month in Southeast Asia, this itinerary could take many forms and much of how you edit down your itinerary will be a reflection of what you prioritize personally when you travel. A month seems like a lot of time but you’ll find that the days slip away quickly when you’re trying to incorporate all of your highlights in a region this large. Transit time is something to consider as well, and that reality helped shape this itinerary in part. Where we could cut out time in airports or limit time on planes, we worked on planning to make that happen. With time constraints, we had to skip southern Thailand entirely, had to cut out Sapa in Northern Vietnam, and had to opt out of visiting the town of Pai, a hippie enclave in Northern Thailand that visitors rave about. Across the board, we opted for around three nights per city, which we hope will at least give us a taste of each area. For anyone else working on a more luxe take on a month in Southeast Asia, I hope this is useful for planning! Please feel free to drop any recommendations, questions, or insights in the comments below!

More about Shannon Kircher

Shannon Kircher is the founder and editor of The Wanderlust Effect. Founded in 2009, she has continued to document her international escapes as an expat in Europe and the Caribbean. Additionally, Shannon is the founder of Compass & Vine, a luxury boutique travel design firm, and is the Director of Marketing for the Frangipani Beach Resort. Shannon holds an MSc in Social Policy and Development from the London School of Economics and is a current candidate for WSET Level 3 in Wines & Spirits.

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. 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. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

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29 Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on April 27, 2024

Southeast Asia is a group of diverse countries between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, featuring indigenous cultures influenced by Indian, Chinese and Western culture. The region includes the most populous Muslim country in the world, very prominent Buddhist countries, and quite significant Christian, Hindu and Animist communities.

It has long been a favorite corner of the world for globe-tramping backpackers, known for its perfect beaches, tasty cuisine, low prices, and good air connections.

The countries of Southeast Asia represent a totally different culture for Western travelers. Instead of cathedrals, they’ll find temples. Instead of cold temperatures and snow in the winter, for the most part they’ll be bathed in a tropical climate. They may find simple accommodations in remote fishing villages but also luxurious five-star hotels in the bigger cities and on the more popular islands.

Southeast Asia will appeal to active, adventuresome travelers, who want to trek through steamy jungles, dive in some of the world’s best coral reefs, camp or go whitewater rafting on new rivers. But the region also offers the less active travelers something, who, after a day of visiting temples and other cultural sites, just want to relax in comfort in a luxury hotel. An overview of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia

29. Vientiane

Both the capital and largest city of Laos, Vientiane is an underrated place to visit with lots of different sides to it. Besides boasting beautiful Buddhist temples, it is known for its elegant French colonial-style architecture and vibrant street food scene.

Set right in the south of the land-locked country, its charming tree-lined streets lie along the northern bank of the Mekong River. In recent decades, the city has doubled in size as malls, hotels and office buildings have shot up everywhere. While the traffic is much more chaotic now, its peaceful temple gardens and riverfront promenade are still wonderful to explore.

Other than admiring the glimmering gold Pha That Luang – Laos’ national symbol and most important religious site – you can amble about the many museums and night markets. Wat Si Muang and Buddha Park also attract visitors with their amazing architecture and artworks.

28. Sihanoukville

As it is home to many of Cambodia’s best beaches , Sihanoukville is a great spot to relax and unwind after exploring Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh. Lying along the Gulf of Thailand, it has heaps of fun watersports to enjoy with idyllic islands also located nearby.

Also known as Kampong Saom, the popular seaside city was quiet until pretty recently when swanky Chinese resorts and casinos were erected everywhere. Although it’s lost a bit of its laid back charm, there are now tons of restaurants and bars to try out.

Plenty of pristine beaches still line its coast with Ream National Park also preserving lovely mangroves and colourful coral reefs. Aside from sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling, you can rent jet skis or take boat trips to the gorgeous Koh Rong and Koh Russei islands.

Nestled away amidst the remote mountains and rice terrace-filled valleys of northwestern Vietnam is the scenic town of Sapa . An increasingly popular tourist destination, it is famous for both its stunning landscapes and traditional hill tribe villages.

Overlooked by the rugged Ham Rong Mountain, the small settlement is surrounded by loads of spectacular nature. While some hike to Muong Hoa Valley for its picturesque rice paddies, others climb up the 3,141 meter-high Mount Fansipan – the tallest peak in Southeast Asia.

Many also come to learn about the isolated region’s unique cultural heritage and the ethnic minorities that live here. In addition to picking up some local handicrafts at its market, you can stay overnight at the quaint Cat Cat Village or trek to some of the other towns nearby.

26. Perhentian Islands

Just a short speed boat ride off the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia are the incredible Perhentian Islands . Appearing as if out of a travel brochure, the jungle-clad archipelago and all its breathtaking beaches are surrounded by shimmering, turquoise waters.

Meaning ‘stopping point’ in Malay, the cluster of coral-fringed islands are completely unspoiled with only the larger Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil being inhabited. Protected as part of Pulau Redang National Marine Park, they have some stupendous snorkeling, scuba diving and sea-kayaking to enjoy.

After ogling at all its magnificent marine life, you can hike about its steamy jungle or lounge on picture-perfect beaches. Some epic rock formations also line their sparkling white sands with relaxing resorts and restaurants dotted here and there.

In stark contrast to the tranquil isles, the hectic, high-paced Hanoi threatens to overwhelm your senses. Once you get used to the constant traffic and hooting horns, Vietnam’s capital has much to love about it with millions visiting each year.

One of the oldest cities on Earth, it exhibits a fascinating mix of East and West as concrete communist blocks lie next to French colonial buildings and ancient Asian pagodas. In its Old Quarter, there are atmospheric markets and alleys to explore with the tiny cafes along Train Street always a big draw.

Other than trying terrific street food, there are numerous museums and galleries that cover the history and culture of the country. If the chaos ever gets too much, you can stroll about the handsome Hoan Kiem Lake or Temple of Literature.

24. Vang Vieng

Often called the ‘Adventure Capital of Laos’, Vang Vieng is renowned for its remarkable karst formations and fast-flowing river. Popular with party-seeking backpackers, it has lots of captivating caves and bucolic countryside to see nearby.

Located a couple of hours’ drive north of Vientiane, the small town lies along the Nam Song River, overlooked by dramatic, soaring mountains. Besides hiking or rock climbing, many go tubing along the river, stopping at various bars along the way.

With countless cool caves, waterfalls and viewpoints found in the surrounding region, most people book tours to places like Tham Chang or the Tham Nam Water Cave. Buggies and kayaks are also available for rent while fun ziplines shoot you above its pretty landscapes.

The largest island in Thailand, Phuket has long been a top destination thanks to its beautiful beaches and bountiful dive sites. Connected to the mainland by a couple of short bridges, its many mountains and rainforests overlook the Andaman Sea.

Offering various exciting outdoor activities, the wealthy province’s pristine parks are great for hiking and motorbiking. As well as exploring the lush rainforest, you can snorkel, sail and scuba dive in the warm waters.

Many also come to pamper themselves at high-end spas, restaurants and hotels with the picturesque Patong Beach being known for lively street markets and loud nightlife scene. Phuket Town, the island’s capital, also has some centuries-old temples, shrines and Sino-Portuguese mansions to see.

22. Kuala Lumpur

One of the most multicultural cities in the world, Malaysia’s sprawling capital Kuala Lumpur hums with energy at any time of day. Most known for the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, it has everything from old-time temples and markets to modern malls and skyscrapers to explore.

Since being founded as a tiny tin mining outpost in 1857, the dynamic KL has continued to grow and grow. Thanks to its large Chinese, Malay and Indian populations, the city has tons of tasty dishes to try with its architecture and historic sights being just as diverse.

Besides shopping at Berjaya Times Square’s stores or sampling Jalan Alor’s street food, you can enjoy awe-inspiring views from its high-up observation decks. The incredible Batu Caves and Genting Highlands can also easily be visited on day trips from the capital.

21. Gili Islands

A lovely, laid back place to visit, gorgeous Gili Islands lie just off the northwest coast of Lombok in Indonesia. Fittingly meaning ‘small beautiful islands’, their wonderful white sands and warm, crystal-clear waters are easily reached by either ferry or fast speed boats.

Although they have long been a popular tourist destination, the three secluded isles are still quite undeveloped despite more resorts and restaurants popping up each year. While Gili Air and Gili Meno are very relaxed, Gili Trawangan is much livelier with plenty of bars and clubs hosting party nights.

All of them boast some breathtaking scenery and beaches with swimming, scuba diving and sightseeing cruises being their main activities. With no cars at all on the islands, their little cafes and beachside retreats make for a delightful getaway.

20. Phnom Penh

Once known as the ‘Paris of the East’ and ‘Pearl of Asia’, Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh has slowly overcome the abuse it suffered under the violent Khmer Rouge regime. While it is still a bit rough and rundown in places, the growing metropolis certainly has a lot to offer.

As it acted as a hub for both the ancient Khmer Empire and French colonialists, fine temples and villas were erected around the city. Although many were damaged in the seventies, the wide boulevards and riverfront promenades for which it is famed still remain.

Aside from wandering about its attractive parks or enormous Phsar Thmei market, you can admire its Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Visitors can also learn more about its recent sad past at the Killing Fields or in its moving Genocide Museum.

19. Chiang Mai

The second-largest city in Thailand, Chiang Mai is located in the mountainous north, amidst scenic countryside. One of Southeast Asia’s must-visit destinations, it is known for not just its atmospheric temples and old town but its fun night markets and street food too.

Once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, it was founded in the thirteenth century with some of the city walls and moat still intact today. These contain impressive temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. You’ll also find bustling Night Bazaar and all kinds of enticing street food stands to try out nearby.

Outside of the city are natural wonders like Doi Inthanon National Park and Hang Dong Quarry to discover. Many also go trekking to meet remote hill tribes or bathe adorable baby elephants at some of the sanctuaries.

18. Inle Lake

Along with the ancient pagodas and temples of Bagan, Inle Lake has to be one of Myanmar’s most enchanting attractions. Tucked away amidst the rolling Shan Hills, its reflective waters are lined by charming monasteries and temples with floating villages, markets and gardens also bobbing about.

The second-largest lake in the country, it stretches 22 kilometres in length with lots of tribes living around it. Many motorboats and flat-bottomed skiffs take tourists out on the shallow lake so you can see the communities up close and learn more about their traditions.

As well as visiting stilt homes and fishermen’s villages, there are centuries-old stupas and pagodas to see too. While puttering about, you can bask in marvellous views of the lake and the mountains far off in the distance.

17. Palawan

With all the alluring beaches, immense limestone cliffs and azure waters, it is no wonder that Palawan is considered to be one of the prettiest parts of Southeast Asia. The westernmost province of the Philippines, it has around 1,780 mostly unspoiled islands and islets to explore.

Set between the Sulu and South China seas, the long, narrow archipelago stretches almost from Borneo to Mindanao. Characterized by craggy limestone cliffs and colourful lagoons, its white sand beaches and dive sites need to be seen to be believed.

Among the region’s many highlights are the irresistible karst landscapes of El Nido and the underground river at Puerto Princesa. Tubbataha Reefs National Park also attracts divers as do the coral reefs and shipwrecks off of Busuanga Island.

16. Taman Negara

Covering a massive part of Peninsular Malaysia are all the rivers, rainforests and mountains of Taman Negara . A must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the country’s largest national park offers a myriad of unforgettable adventure activities.

Established in 1938/1939, it sprawls across three states with Asian elephants, leopards and Malayan tigers all inhabiting its wild confines. The vast park also protects some of the oldest deciduous rainforest in the world. Some estimates reckon it is over 130 million years old!

Amidst its endless mountains and jungle, you can explore caves, climb peaks and enjoy cool canopy walks. Many also shoot down its rapids and take nighttime safaris through the dark rainforest to see its nocturnal creatures. There are also the tiny aboriginal villages of Orang Asli to visit where you can learn more about traditional life in Taman Negara.

Well-preserved, Hoi An’s little canals and lantern-lit streets are hemmed in by hundreds of historic buildings. A mix of eras and styles, they perfectly reflect the former trading port’s past and all the different peoples and merchants that have lived here over the ages.

Lying along Vietnam’s central coastline, it flourished for centuries until the mouth of the Thu Bon River finally silted up. Its attractive Old Town is home to not just Chinese-style temples and shophouses but French colonial villas and ornate Vietnamese tube houses too. Another of its main sights is its quaint Japanese covered bridge that crosses one of the canals.

At night, everywhere looks even more magical as lovely lanterns light up its narrow, winding streets and riverside. Besides shopping for souvenirs at its market and trying some delicious street food, many take trips to the majestic My Son ruins nearby.

Formerly known as Rangoon, Myanmar’s largest city Yangon has much more to see than just its shimmering gold Shwedagon Pagoda. Other than the ancient Buddhist shrine, there are plenty of British colonial buildings, parks and religious sites to check out.

Despite being replaced at the capital by Naypyidaw in 2005, it still acts as both the country’s cultural and commercial center. As it exhibits a mix of British, Burmese, Chinese and Indian influences, the city has loads to offer in terms of its historic sights, food and nightlife.

The undoubted highlight, however, is of course the gigantic golden Shwedagon Paya which is perched atop a hill overlooking the city. At its sizeable complex, you can examine its shrines and stupas and bang the giant Maha Ganda Bell for good luck.

13. Boracay

One of the Philippines’ most popular destinations, Boracay boasts some of the best and most beautiful white sand beaches in the world. A tropical paradise, all its relaxing resorts, spas and seafood restaurants lie just an hour’s flight from Manila.

Located just off the northwest coast of Panay, the idyllic isle is lined by soft, powdery sands backed by gently swaying palms. Aside from swimming and splashing in its turquoise waters, you can enjoy everything from sailing and windsurfing to snorkeling, jet skiing and scuba diving.

Many holidaymakers also make the most of its many spas and massage stations that border the beach. In the evenings, there are tons of lively bars and restaurants which offer superb music sets and sunset views.

12. Mount Kinabalu

Rising dramatically above the rainforests and rivers of Borneo is the massive great Mount Kinabalu. The highest peak in the Malay Archipelago, it towers 4,095 meters in total with numerous hiking trails winding their way about its rugged slopes.

Considered sacred by the local Kadazan Dusun people, its wild reaches are now protected as part of the national park of the same name. One of the most biodiverse areas on Earth, it is home to around 6,000 plant species. Over 300 kinds of exotic birds also flit about its dense foliage.

Despite its soaring summit, the mountain is actually quite easy to hike if you are moderately fit. After taking in all its astounding views and nature, you can always go and see adorable orangutans at one of the nearby nature reserves.

11. Komodo National Park

If you’re after a sighting of the world’s largest lizard, then the incredible Komodo National Park is the place to head. Part of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia, it also preserves some spellbinding mountains, beaches and marine life.

Founded in 1980, the important biosphere reserve includes not just the large islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar but dozens of smaller ones too. Here, you’ll find thousands of the remarkable creatures which can impressively grow up to three meters in length.

In addition to actually seeing the dragons, you can spot wild horses, water buffalo and other endangered species. Many also camp and kayak at its pristine white sand beaches with the park’s colourful coral reefs being amazing to snorkel and scuba dive above.

10. Singapore

Set off the southern end of the Malay Peninsula is the tiny city-state and island country of Singapore . Often called the ‘Switzerland of Asia’, it is a very prosperous and diverse place with its population speaking English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil.

Since being established by the British in 1819 as a small trading colony, the city has grown considerably. Still home to one of the world’s busiest ports, its iconic skyline includes famed, futuristic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands Resort and the Gardens by the Bay supertrees.

Nearer the ground are cool districts like Chinatown and Orchard Road to amble around with Singapore known for its tasty food and terrific shopping. Although it is one of the world’s most technologically advanced cities, it also has lovely jungles and beaches to enjoy.

9. Ko Phi Phi

Even more picture-perfect still than Phuket is the nearby archipelago of Ko Phi Phi. Home to some of Thailand and Southeast Asia’s most attractive islands, its charming coves, cliffs and sandy beaches are surrounded by the sparkling Andaman Sea.

Part of Krabi Province , its enchanting isles number five in total with Ko Phi Phi Don being the largest and only one that is inhabited. Towered over by tall karst cliffs clad in greenery, their beaches are often featured on the front of travel catalogues. It’s easy to see why as all their white sands contrast so stunningly with the emerald waters around them.

One of the most famous is Maya Bay which was the setting of the hit 2000 film The Beach. As well as sunbathing and swimming, you can take boat trips about the islands and snorkel and scuba dive in their waters. Ko Phi Phi is also known for its lively nightlife and fire shows.

8. Luang Prabang

Rightfully renowned for its countless temples and shrines, Luang Prabang is nestled amidst gorgeous green hills in northern Laos. Meaning ‘Royal Buddha Image’, its historic old town is very atmospheric to wander around with several waterfalls also found nearby.

Situated at the spot where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet, it acted as the country’s capital until 1975. At Wat Xieng Thong or the Temple of the Golden City, you can see where the Laotian kings of old were crowned. The nation’s most important monastery, it showcases some exquisite architecture, statues and murals.

In the Old Quarter, you can still see monks collecting alms in its laidback, stall-lined streets. Once you’ve explored its temples, make sure to take a trip to the fabulous Kuang Si Falls or carved Buddhas in the Pak Ou Caves.

7. Borobudur

The largest Buddhist temple in the world, the absolutely massive Borobudur monument lies in the center of Java, just northwest of Yogyakarta . Just one of Indonesia’s many must-visit sights , its collection of stupas look particularly spectacular at sunrise and sunset.

Dating to the ninth century, its enormous square platforms and circular terraces are made out of two million blocks of dark volcanic stone. Decorating the entire complex are elaborate relief panels and Buddha statues. These depict daily life, the concept of Karma and various fauna and flora from around the island.

Hidden for centuries under thick layers of ash and rainforest, it is very well-preserved with a couple of museums explaining more about the site. Every June, traditional Javanese dances are performed at Borobudur, highlighting its history and how it was constructed.

6. Ifugao Rice Terraces

Yet another picturesque place to visit in the Philippines are the beautiful Ifugao Rice Terraces in the northern part of Luzon . Tumbling their way down the sides of steep, sweeping valleys, their vivid green hues make for some phenomenal photos.

For thousands of years now, the Ifugao people have practiced rice farming this way, hidden away amidst the Cordilleras highlands. Carved into the side of the mountains, the irrigated paddies are an astounding feat of engineering. Some even label them the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’.

Aside from visiting viewpoints and snapping photos of the remarkable rice terraces, you can trek around and stop by some traditional hill tribe villages. Many sell woodcarvings and handicrafts with plenty of families also offering homestays.

The highlight of most people’s time in Myanmar has to be watching the sunrise above all the stupas, temples and pagodas of Bagan. Rising above the trees and plains about them, its more than 2,200 spires make for an unforgettable sight.

Built between the ninth and thirteenth centuries, the immense archaeological site was once the capital of the powerful Pagan Kingdom. Actually described by Marco Polo himself as the ‘gilded city’, it contained over 13,000 monasteries and temples at its zenith.

As the complex is so large, you’re best off choosing a few specific places to visit. Among the most popular, impressive and important are Ananda Temple and Dhammayangyi Temple. A lot of people also take hot air balloon rides at dawn to see Bagan from above and enjoy the glint of the rising sun on its stupas.

One of the largest, liveliest cities on the planet, Thailand’s capital Bangkok is certainly not to be missed when in Southeast Asia. Famed for its fantastic street food and nightlife scene, it also has magnificent temples and palaces to check out.

Home to almost 11 million people, its seemingly endless urban sprawl surrounds the Chao Phraya River. Numerous canals also branch off it with many taking peaceful cruises to avoid its intense heat and heavy traffic.

Alongside all its towering skyscrapers, you’ll also find interesting historic sites like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. Trawling its vibrant markets is loads of fun too as is sipping cocktails at one of the city’s many rooftop bars. With luxury spas and shopping also on offer, Bangkok has something for everyone to enjoy.

3. Ha Long Bay

Often listed among the world’s natural wonders, Ha Long Bay’s incredible karst landscapes really are special to explore. One of Vietnam’s top attractions , it lies right in the northeast of the country, not all too far from Hanoi.

Actually meaning ‘ Bay of Descending Dragons ’, its almost endless emerald waters are home to almost 2,000 islets. These mostly consist of craggy limestone outcrops, topped with lush green foliage or jungle. Some also have cool caves for you to enter and stunning swathes of sand to relax on.

On tranquil junk boat trips about the bay, you can visit its floating villages and kayak about its grottoes. Many also take Tai Chi, yoga and cooking classes aboard the ships while taking in the stupendous scenery all around.

Fittingly known as the ‘ Island of the Gods ’, Bali more than lives up to its name with all its romantic landscapes and revered religious sites. Lying right between both Java and Lombok, its rich culture, resplendent nature and warm hospitality make it the most visited of all the Indonesian islands.

Often described as a tropical paradise, its marvelous mountains and rice terraces give way to rugged cliffs and sandy beaches. Scattered about are thousands of ancient Hindu temples and fabulous valleys, paddies and waterfalls to hike or cycle to.

Other than spending time in Ubud , its cultural center and arts and crafts hub, you can enjoy the pounding nightlife and vivid sunsets at Seminyak. Many also attend yoga retreats or surf and party at Kuta Beach.

Covering an enormous area, Angkor in Cambodia contains the remains of several capitals of the ancient Khmer Empire. Fascinating to wander around, its hundreds of highly symbolic stone temples can be found just outside of Siem Reap .

Now believed to have been the largest pre-industrial city in the world, the important political and religious center was largely constructed between the ninth and fifteenth centuries. After its decline, the ruins of the temples were eventually reclaimed by the jungle.

While the iconic Angkor Wat may be its largest and most elaborate structure, there are also tons of other temples like the breathtaking Bayon and tree-covered Ta Prohm to see. All of them exhibit some amazing architecture and are decorated with detailed reliefs, statues and carvings. A place like no other, Angkor is a must-visit when in Southeast Asia.

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Reader interactions.

February 15, 2021 at 4:06 am

Stay away from Sihanoukville, it is now a huge building site ruined by the Chinese building Cambodia’s version of Las Vegas.

Cambodia’s main attraction for you tourists are the Angkor Park temples in Siem Reap, amazing temples built in the 12th century.

February 13, 2018 at 7:49 am

There is also a new Elephant eco-park in Phuket.

February 3, 2018 at 8:37 pm

I just visited an elephant sanctuary park near Chang mai in Thailand where we fed, washed and walked with rescued elephants . Never felt so emotionally rewarded … kindest gentlest giants . Say no to cruel elephant trecking where animals are abused both physically and mentally …

March 8, 2017 at 12:18 pm

I agree with Marie. It would be worth searching to see if there is an eco-tourist elephant park where there is no riding. I went to one in Chiang mai and it was fantastic.

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A Korean national accused of kidnapping and murdering a fellow Korean in Pattaya, Thailand, arrives at Changwon District Court in South Gyeongsang Province on May 15 for a pre-trial detention hearing. Yonhap

The recent murder of a Korean tourist in Pattaya, Thailand, allegedly by another Korean, has prompted a travel advisory for Southeast Asia, highlighting the frequent targeting of Koreans, especially by their fellow nationals, in the region, despite a temporary decrease during the pandemic.

Following the Philippines, known for cases of extortion, Thailand has seen a rise in violent crimes that some have linked to the legalization of cannabis, necessitating caution when travelling to the country.

On May 11, a 34-year-old Korean tourist, identified as A, was found dead in a reservoir in Pattaya. The victim's fingers were severed, and the body was concealed in a plastic drum, highlighting the brutality of the crime.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, Southeast Asia's gambling and nightlife culture made it a hotspot for crimes targeting Koreans.

The Philippines, in particular, is notorious for its rampant gun violence and extortion, where pre-selected victims are lured into traps using prostitution as bait, then demand money in exchange for their release.

Thailand has emerged as a dangerous area, particularly due to drug-related issues. In June 2022, Thailand effectively legalized cannabis by removing it from the list of narcotics.

The negative effects were swift, with foreigners increasingly becoming victims. Last year, a foreign tourist died after drinking cannabis tea at a cannabis cafe on Walking Street in central Pattaya.

The deceased Korean tourist may also have been a victim of drug-related crime. The perpetrators demanded a ransom of 11.2 million won ($8,300) from A's mother, claiming, "Your son discarded illegal drugs and suffered the consequences."

Thai police examine a black plastic barrel filled with cement and a body, believed to be that of a South Korean man, in Pattaya, Chonburi province, Thailand, on May 11. AP-Yonhap

High alert on drug-related crimes

Other Southeast Asian countries are also not safe from drug-related crimes. In October 2016, Park Wang-yeol, who became known as the "drug king," killed three Koreans in the Philippines and disposed of their bodies while using the country as a base to distribute large quantities of drugs worldwide.

As drug crime in Southeast Asia gains renewed attention, Koreans are growing fearful.

A 30-year-old office worker, only identified as Lee, said, "I was planning to travel to Thailand for my summer vacation, but I might change my plans. I'm worried not only about movie-like incidents but also about copycat crimes."

Online communities have also shared testimonies, with one person stating, "(A) was kidnapped from a club that is very popular among foreigners. I once lost consciousness after drinking a beverage given to me by someone there."

Korean Embassies are on high alert to ensure the safety of Korean tourists. The Korean Embassy in Thailand advised, "Check for cannabis-related symbols or ingredients listed on products or menus, and be cautious of cannabis specialty shops."

Similarly, the Korean Embassy in the Philippines posted a "Guidance on Preventing Drug Crime Involvement" on its website last year. International drug cartels luring individuals into drug trafficking with promises of high-paying jobs through social media should also be approached with caution.

If someone is suspected of being missing, it is crucial to report it immediately to the local embassy or police.

The Korean Embassy in Thailand said, "Thai police typically accept missing person reports only after 24 hours of no contact, and it is essential for the concerned party to report directly to local law enforcement. Initially, report the case to the relevant Korean police station and inform the embassy about the missing person's status."

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, sister publication of The Korea Times, was translated by generative AI and edited by staff of The Korea Times.

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The latest on the massive solar storm

By Angela Fritz, Elise Hammond and Chris Lau, CNN

Incredible lighthouse picture from Maine

From CNN's Chris Lau

Among a flurry of surreal images capturing the dazzling auroras is one taken by Benjamin Williamson of a lighthouse in Portland, Maine.

"It's one of the most incredible things I've ever seen, the awe and wonder," Williamson told CNN.

He said he used a long-exposure technique to snap the shot, but did not edit it.

Watch the full interview with Williamson here .

Things could be about to ramp up

If you still haven't seen the aurora, hold on for another 30 minutes to an hour, according to CNN meteorologist Chad Myers.

The next wave of coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, which cause the aurora, is about to arrive, he said.

"Just wait a minute because things are going to start to ramp up here," he said, adding that the increase could arrive "anytime now." "When it comes, get outside, get ready, put your coat on."

For those who are too busy to witness the phenomenon tonight, Myers said the aurora is expected to last three nights.

Why does the aurora last for a weekend?

By CNN's Chris Lau

Generally, it takes just eight minutes for light to travel 93 million miles to the Earth from the sun, but astrophysicist Janna Levin said the energized particles causing the current wave of aurora travel a lot slower, causing the phenomenon to last for the weekend.

"Some of these mass ejections are trillions of kilograms," she said. "They're slower. So they're taking longer, but still hours, maybe tens of hours."

Here's how the solar storm looks in the South and on the East Coast

The aurora was visible across the East Coast and in the South Friday.

Here's how it looked in Chester, South Carolina.

Down in Florida, waves of color swam through the sky.

Up north in New Jersey, a purple-ish haze could be seen in the sky.

Will solar storms get more intense and risky in the future?

The answer is probably not in the short term, according to astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi.

He said scientists study what is constantly happening on the surface of the sun and have found a pattern.

“Geological data shows us that in the past the sun was way more active than it is today. It has cycles where it goes very quiet ... and you have events that show that the solar activity was much, much greater,” he told CNN. “So there's no evidence that we're going to see those big maxima this cycle." 

But the astrophysicist also spoke of a caveat - the limitations of modern science.

“Even though it's predictable in the short term, we still don't quite understand what creates the magnetic fields in the sun,” he said, adding: “That's why NASA has so many satellites looking at the sun.”

In Pictures: Auroras light the sky during rare solar storm

From CNN Digital's Photo Team

A series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun are creating dazzling auroras across the globe .

The rare solar storm may also disrupt communications. The last time a solar storm of this magnitude reached Earth was in October 2003, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center.

See more photos of the aurora from tonight.

Behind dazzling aurora could lie “real danger,” Bill Nye the Science Guy says

The massive solar storm could present “a real danger,” especially with the modern world relying so much on electricity, according to Bill Nye the Science Guy , a science educator and engineer.

Scientists are warning an increase in solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun have the potential to disrupt communication on Earth into the weekend. Solar flares can affect communications and GPS almost immediately because they disrupt Earth’s ionosphere, or part of the upper atmosphere. Energetic particles released by the sun can also disrupt electronics on spacecraft and affect astronauts without proper protection within 20 minutes to several hours.

In comparison to tonight's event, Nye drew comparisons with another incident in 1859, known as the Carrington Event, when telegraph communications were severely affected.

“The other thing, everybody, that is a real danger to our technological society, different from 1859, is how much we depend on electricity and our electronics and so on,” Nye said. "None of us really in the developed world could go very long without electricity."

He noted that there are systems in place to minimize the impact, but “stuff might go wrong,” stressing that not all transformers are equipped to withstand such a solar event.

“It depends on the strength of the event and it depends on how much of our infrastructures are prepared for this the sort of thing,” he said.

Bill Nye breaks down significance of the solar storm | CNN

This post has been updated with more details on solar flares' impact on electronics.

Here's where clouds will block the view of the northern lights in the US

From CNN's Angela Fritz

After an incredibly stormy week, most of the Lower 48 has clear skies to see the northern lights. But there are some areas where clouds and rainy weather are spoiling the view.

A deck of clouds is blocking the sky in the Northeast, from parts of Virginia into Maine, as an area of low pressure spins off the East Coast.

In the Midwest, the aurora will be hard to see through thick clouds in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan — including the Upper Peninsula — and Illinois.

A stripe of clouds is tracking across Texas, including Dallas-Forth Worth, and into Louisiana.

And in the Southwest, patchy clouds across the the Four Corners region could make the northern lights difficult to spot.

Aurora seen at least as far south as Georgia

Barely visible to the naked eye, the aurora can be seen in Atlanta in the 10 p.m. ET hour. 

It is easier to see through photographs using a long exposure. The photos below, taken by CNN's Eric Zerkel and Emily Smith, used 3- and 10-second exposures.

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Moscow Oblast, Russia

The capital city of Moskovskaya oblast: Moscow .

Moscow Oblast - Overview

Moscow Oblast is a federal subject of Russia located in the Central Federal District. Moscow, the capital city of the country, is the administrative center of Moscow Oblast. At the same time, Moscow is not part of this region, it is a separate federal subject of Russia, a city of federal importance.

The population of Moscow Oblast is about 7,769,000 (2022), the area - 44,379 sq. km.

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Moskovskaya oblast latest news and posts from our blog:.

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History of Moscow Oblast

The territory of the Moscow region was inhabited more than 20 thousand years ago. In the first millennium AD, this land was inhabited mostly by the Finno-Ugric peoples (Meryane and Meshchera). In the 9th-10th centuries, the Slavs began active development of the region. The population was engaged in hunting, fisheries, agriculture, and cattle breeding.

In the middle of the 12th century, the territory of the present Moscow region became part of the Vladimir-Suzdal principality, the first towns were founded (Volokolamsk in 1135, Moscow in 1147, Zvenigorod in 1152, Dmitrov in 1154). In the first half of the 13th century, the Vladimir-Suzdal principality was conquered by the Mongols.

In the 14th-16th centuries, Moscow principality became the center of unification of Russian lands. The history of the Moscow region is inextricably linked to military events of the Time of Troubles - the siege of the Trinity-Sergius Monastery by the troops of False Dmitry II, the first and second militias.

More historical facts…

In 1708, by decree of Peter the Great, Moskovskaya gubernia (province) was established. It included most of the territory of present Moscow oblast. In 1712, St. Petersburg became the capital of the Russian Empire and the significance of the Moscow region as the country’s economic center began to decrease.

In 1812, the Battle of Borodino took place near Moscow. It was the biggest battle of the Russian-French War of 1812. In the second half of the 19th century, especially after the peasant reform of 1861, the Moscow province experienced economic growth. In 1851, the first railway connected Moscow and St. Petersburg; in 1862 - Nizhny Novgorod.

The population of the Moscow region increased significantly (in 1847 - 1.13 million people, in 1905 - 2.65 million). On the eve of the First World War, Moscow was a city with a population of more than one million people.

In November, 1917, the Soviet power was established in the region. In 1918, the country’s capital was moved from St. Petersburg to Moscow that contributed to economic recovery of the province. In the 1920s-1930s, a lot of churches located near Moscow were closed, a large number of cultural monuments were destroyed. On January 14, 1929, Moscow Oblast was formed.

In 1941-1942, one of the most important battles of the Second World War took place on the territory of the region - the Battle for Moscow. In the postwar years, the growth of economic potential of the region continued; several science cities were founded (Dubna, Troitsk, Pushchino, Chernogolovka).

In the 1990s, the economy of Moscow Oblast experienced a deep crisis. Since the 1990s, due to the motorization of the population and commuting, road traffic situation in the Moscow region significantly deteriorated. Traffic jams have become commonplace.

Pictures of Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast scenery

Author: Mikhail Grizly

At the airport in the Moscow region

Author: Evgeny Davydov

Nature of Moscow Oblast

Author: Alexander Khmelkov

Moscow Oblast - Features

Moscow Oblast is located in the central part of the East European Plain, in the basin of the rivers of Volga, Oka, Klyazma, Moskva. The region stretches from north to south for 310 km, from west to east - 340 km. It was named after the city of Moscow, which however is not part of the region. Part of the administrative authorities of the region is located in Krasnogorsk.

On the territory of the Moscow region, there are 77 cities and towns, 19 of them have a population of more than 100 thousand people. The largest cities are Balashikha (518,300), Podolsk (309,600), Mytishchi (262,700), Khimky (256,300), Korolyov (225,300), Lubertsy (209,600), Krasnogorsk (174,900), Elektrostal (149,000), Odintsovo (138,900), Kolomna (136,800), Domodedovo (136,100).

The climate is temperate continental. Summers are warm, winters are moderately cold. The average temperature in January is minus 10 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 19 degrees Celsius.

One of the most important features of the local economy is its proximity to Moscow. Some of the cities (Odintsovo, Krasnogorsk, Mytishchi) have become in fact the “sleeping districts” of Moscow. The region is in second place in terms of industrial production among the regions of Russia (after Moscow).

The leading industries are food processing, engineering, chemical, metallurgy, construction. Moscow oblast has one of the largest in Russia scientific and technological complexes. Handicrafts are well developed (Gzhel ceramics, Zhostov trays, Fedoskino lacquered miniatures, toy-making).

Moscow railway hub is the largest in Russia (11 radial directions, 2,700 km of railways, the density of railways is the highest in Russia). There are two large international airports - Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo. Vnukovo airport is used for the flights within the country.

Attractions of Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast has more than 6,400 objects of cultural heritage:

• famous estate complexes,
• ancient towns with architectural monuments (Vereya, Volokolamsk, Dmitrov, Zaraysk, Zvenigorod, Istra, Kolomna, Sergiev Posad, Serpukhov),
• churches and monasteries-museums (the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, Joseph-Volokolamsk monastery, Pokrovsky Khotkov monastery, Savvino Storozhevsky monastery, Nikolo Ugresha monastery).

The most famous estate complexes:

• Arkhangelskoye - a large museum with a rich collection of Western European and Russian art of the 17th-19th centuries,
• Abramtsevo - a literary and artistic center,
• Melikhovo - an estate owned by A.P. Chekhov at the end of the 19th century,
• Zakharovo and Bolshiye Vyazyomy included in the History and Literature Museum-Reserve of Alexander Pushkin,
• House-Museum of the composer P.I. Tchaikovsky in Klin,
• Muranovo that belonged to the poet F.I. Tyutchev,
• Shakhmatovo - the estate of the poet Alexander Blok.

The architectural ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The largest museum of the Moscow region is located in Serpukhov - Serpukhov Historical and Art Museum.

The places of traditional arts and crafts are the basis of the souvenir industry of Russia:

• Fedoskino - lacquer miniature painting,
• Bogorodskoe - traditional manufacture of wooden toys,
• Gzhel - unique tradition of creating ceramics,
• Zhostovo - painted metal crafts,
• Pavlovsky Posad - fabrics with traditional printed pattern.

Some of these settlements have museums dedicated to traditional crafts (for example, a toy museum in Bogorodskoe), as well as centers of learning arts and crafts.

Moskovskaya oblast of Russia photos

Landscapes of moscow oblast.

Nature of the Moscow region

Country road in the Moscow region

Moscow Oblast landscape

Author: Mikhail Kurtsev

Moscow Oblast views

Author: Asedach Alexander

Country life in Moscow Oblast

Author: Andrey Zakharov

Church in Moscow Oblast

Author: Groshev Dmitrii

Churches of Moscow Oblast

Church in the Moscow region

Cathedral in Moscow Oblast

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The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

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Solar Storm Intensifies, Filling Skies With Northern Lights

Officials warned of potential blackouts or interference with navigation and communication systems this weekend, as well as auroras as far south as Southern California or Texas.

By Katrina Miller and Judson Jones

Katrina Miller reports on space and astronomy and Judson Jones is a meteorologist.

A dramatic blast from the sun set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere on Friday that is expected to make the northern lights visible as far south as Florida and Southern California and could interfere with power grids, communications and navigations system.

It is the strongest such storm to reach Earth since Halloween of 2003. That one was strong enough to create power outages in Sweden and damage transformers in South Africa.

The effects could continue through the weekend as a steady stream of emissions from the sun continues to bombard the planet’s magnetic field.

The solar activity is so powerful that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors space weather, issued an unusual storm watch for the first time in 19 years, which was then upgraded to a warning. The agency began observing outbursts on the sun’s surface on Wednesday, with at least five heading in the direction of Earth.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday morning.

For people in many places, the most visible part of the storm will be the northern lights, known also as auroras. But authorities and companies will also be on the lookout for the event’s effects on infrastructure, like global positioning systems, radio communications and even electrical power.

While the northern lights are most often seen in higher latitudes closer to the North Pole, people in many more parts of the world are already getting a show this weekend that could last through the early part of next week.

As Friday turned to Saturday in Europe, people across the continent described skies hued in a mottling of colors.

Alfredo Carpineti , an astrophysicist, journalist and author in North London, saw them with his husband from the rooftop of their apartment building.

“It is incredible to be able to see the aurora directly from one’s own backyard,” he said. “I was hoping to maybe catch a glimpse of green on the horizon, but it was all across the sky in both green and purple.”

Here’s what you need to know about this weekend’s solar event.

How will the storm affect people on Earth?

A geomagnetic storm watch or warning indicates that space weather may affect critical infrastructure on or orbiting near Earth. It may introduce additional current into systems, which could damage pipelines, railroad tracks and power lines.

According to Joe Llama, an astronomer at Lowell Observatory, communications that rely on high frequency radio waves, such as ham radio and commercial aviation , are most likely to suffer. That means it is unlikely that your cellphone or car radio, which depend on much higher frequency radio waves, will conk out.

Still, it is possible for blackouts to occur. As with any power outage, you can prepare by keeping your devices charged and having access to backup batteries, generators and radio.

The most notable solar storm recorded in history occurred in 1859. Known as the Carrington Event, it lasted for nearly a week, creating aurora that stretched down to Hawaii and Central America and impacting hundreds of thousands of miles of telegraph lines.

But that was technology of the 19th century, used before scientists fully understood how solar activity disrupted Earth’s atmosphere and communication systems.

“That was an extreme level event,” said Shawn Dahl, a forecaster at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. “We are not anticipating that.”

Unlike tornado watches and warnings, the target audience for NOAA’s announcements is not the public.

“For most people here on planet Earth, they won’t have to do anything,” said Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

The goal of the announcements is to give agencies and companies that operate this infrastructure time to put protection measures in place to mitigate any effects.

“If everything is working like it should, the grid will be stable and they’ll be able to go about their daily lives,” Mr. Steenburgh said.

Will I be able to see the northern lights?

It is possible that the northern lights may grace the skies this week over places that don’t usually see them. The best visibility is outside the bright lights of cities.

Clouds or stormy weather could pose a problem in some places. But if the skies are clear, even well south of where the aurora is forecast to take place, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone. The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Another opportunity could be viewing sunspots during the daytime, if your skies are clear. As always, do not look directly at the sun without protection. But if you still have your eclipse glasses lying around from the April 8 event, you may try to use them to try to spot the cluster of sunspots causing the activity.

How strong is the current geomagnetic storm?

Giant explosions on the surface of the sun, known as coronal mass ejections, send streams of energetic particles into space. But the sun is large, and such outbursts may not cross our planet as it travels around the star. But when these particles create a disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field, it is known as a geomagnetic storm.

NOAA classifies these storms on a “G” scale of 1 to 5, with G1 being minor and G5 being extreme. The most extreme storms can cause widespread blackouts and damage to infrastructure on Earth. Satellites may also have trouble orienting themselves or sending or receiving information during these events.

The current storm is classified as G5, or “extreme.” It is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface — that is about 16 times the diameter of Earth. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Why is this happening now?

The sun’s activity ebbs and flows on an 11-year cycle, and right now, it is approaching a solar maximum. Three other severe geomagnetic storms have been observed so far in the current activity cycle, which began in December 2019, but none were predicted to cause effects strong enough on Earth to warrant a watch or warning announcement.

The cluster of sunspots generating the current storm is the largest seen in this solar cycle, NOAA officials said. They added that the activity in this cycle has outperformed initial predictions .

More flares and expulsions from this cluster are expected, but because of the sun’s rotation the cluster will be oriented in a position less likely to affect Earth. In the coming weeks, the sunspots may appear again on the left side of the sun, but it is difficult for scientists to predict whether this will cause another bout of activity.

“Usually, these don’t come around packing as much of a punch as they did originally,” Mr. Dahl said. “But time will tell on that.”

Jonathan O’Callaghan contributed reporting from London.

An earlier version of this article misstated the radio frequencies used by cellphones and car radios. They are higher frequencies, not low.

How we handle corrections

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and reporter for The Times who forecasts and covers extreme weather. More about Judson Jones

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A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

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Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .

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Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

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Coordinates of Elektrostal in decimal degrees

Coordinates of elektrostal in degrees and decimal minutes, utm coordinates of elektrostal, geographic coordinate systems.

WGS 84 coordinate reference system is the latest revision of the World Geodetic System, which is used in mapping and navigation, including GPS satellite navigation system (the Global Positioning System).

Geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) define a position on the Earth’s surface. Coordinates are angular units. The canonical form of latitude and longitude representation uses degrees (°), minutes (′), and seconds (″). GPS systems widely use coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes, or in decimal degrees.

Latitude varies from −90° to 90°. The latitude of the Equator is 0°; the latitude of the South Pole is −90°; the latitude of the North Pole is 90°. Positive latitude values correspond to the geographic locations north of the Equator (abbrev. N). Negative latitude values correspond to the geographic locations south of the Equator (abbrev. S).

Longitude is counted from the prime meridian ( IERS Reference Meridian for WGS 84) and varies from −180° to 180°. Positive longitude values correspond to the geographic locations east of the prime meridian (abbrev. E). Negative longitude values correspond to the geographic locations west of the prime meridian (abbrev. W).

UTM or Universal Transverse Mercator coordinate system divides the Earth’s surface into 60 longitudinal zones. The coordinates of a location within each zone are defined as a planar coordinate pair related to the intersection of the equator and the zone’s central meridian, and measured in meters.

Elevation above sea level is a measure of a geographic location’s height. We are using the global digital elevation model GTOPO30 .

Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia