Top 10 Underrated Places to Visit in Asia

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It's time to think about veering away from the popular tourist routes and heading towards those less traveled by the masses. Many of these undiscovered gems ... read more...

  1. The first underrated place to visit in Asia is Ipoh City, Malaysia. Ipoh City, the third-largest city in Malaysia, serves as the entrance to the Cameron Highlands. The state capital of Perak is Ipoh, which is located on Peninsular Malaysia's western coast. Ipoh has five nicknames: The phrases "Town Built on Tin" and "City of Millionaires" refer to the enormous fortunes generated during the tin mining boom. referring to the enormous mining pumps that were employed in the early extraction of tin ore, are still affectionately referred to as Paloh by the local Chinese. The Bougainvillea is referred to as the city's emblem flower in the Bougainvillea City. Ipoh is referred to as "The Hill City'' because of its hilly surroundings. Despite having many fascinating sites to offer visitors, Ipoh in the state of Perak is one of the least visited cities in the area. In Malaysia, Ipoh is well-known for its old town, which is home to beautiful street murals, museums, and a wealth of fascinating history. The main attraction in this location is that, in addition to enjoying the city, visitors can venture out into the countryside and take in a variety of interesting locations like cave temples and soaring limestone cliffs.


    Most people think of Penang when they think about renowned Malaysian food cities. However, that is just because they haven't visited Ipoh. There are many good reasons to visit Ipoh, like its cuisine and the city's well-known white coffee, but there are also stunning limestone hills and caves that are home to unusual temples and incredible secret bars. Be astounded by the beautiful stone carvings and bronze statues of Chinese deities surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites when you visit the Chinese temples of Perak Tong, Sam Poh Tong, and Kek Lok Tong. The colonial legacy of Ipoh is also seen in the city's architecture, which includes the Old Post Office, Birch Clock Tower, Railway Station, and town hall.

    Photo: Kayak
    Photo: Kayak
    Photo: Lonely Planet
    Photo: Lonely Planet

  2. Isaan is a country of first-rate Khmer ruins without the tourist congestion and national parks without the crowds, located away from Thailand's booming metropolis of Bangkok. One of Thailand's poorest regions, it now has one of the country's fastest-growing economies. Tourists can therefore find a wide variety of activities in Isaan. Isaan, which is bordered by Cambodia and Laos, moves at a leisurely and nostalgic pace. The Sanskrit word Ishan, which means "in a northeastern direction," is where the name Isaan originates. A series of exquisite worshiping sites were constructed in the region during the expansion of the Khmer empire, and they are still there today. Isaan offers some of Thailand's most magnificent landmarks despite lacking the sky bars and opulent spas. From a magical mushroom farm to exquisite wines that would have you believing you are in Europe, Isaan, Thailand, has something to offer everyone.


    Despite how well-liked Thailand is among foreign visitors, the region's northeast, known as Isaan, is frequently disregarded. But Isaan checks all the appropriate boxes and then some for travelers looking for a lesser-known location with beautiful scenery, historical architecture, and delectable cuisine. Due to its outstanding infrastructure, which includes numerous domestic airports with daily flights to Bangkok and a variety of upscale hotels, it is one of the friendliest places in all of Asia and is quite accessible. The decision of which highlights to see is the only difficult part. Isaan, which consists of 20 provinces, is bordered by Laos and Cambodia, and their impacts can be seen in the cuisine, language, historic monuments, and festivals of the area. The food is another factor. Isaan food, which is now widely available on menus in Thai restaurants around the world, consists of tangy Sai Grok Isaan (eastern sausage), refreshing som tom (papaya salad), and larb, a tasty minced-meat salad.

    Photo: Pinoy Thaiyo
    Photo: Pinoy Thaiyo
    Photo: Matador Network
    Photo: Matador Network
  3. Skardu, Pakistan is the next underrated place to visit in Asia. Many of the tallest mountains on earth are situated in the Skardu district of Pakistan's Gilit Baltistan region, a place of stark enormous grandeur. The second-highest plateau in the world is where Deosai National Park is located. It is a riot of color and teeming with butterflies and birds. The stars are extremely bright when there are no ambient city lights, and the Milky Way appears to be almost touching the horizon. The Sarfaranga Desert is in stark contrast. It is the coldest and tallest desert in the world, with ebony mountains and diamond-white dunes. Skardu has been inhabited for many years and is dotted with historical Buddhist stupas and carvings, Middle Ages mosques that have been well preserved, and Sufi saint shrines. Shigar Fort and Khaplu Palace, two of the picturesque country's best-kept hotels, have been refurbished by the Serena hotel brand. Both provide regional cuisine like Mamtu dumplings and grilled trout while being surrounded by gardens and built using wood that is climate-friendly.


    A stunning waterfall may be seen about one hour southeast of Skardu is another place you can visit. Manthoka Waterfall, which is surrounded by a tranquil, green valley, rises so magnificently and tallly from the mountains that it is difficult to believe it is artificial. In one of the most stunning locations close to Skardu, you may take a refreshing shower in the waterfall's crystal-clear water, photograph silky streams and rainbows, and take pleasure in a leisurely lunch. Skardu has been inhabited for many years and is dotted with historical Buddhist stupas and carvings, Middle Ages mosques that have been well preserved, and Sufi saint shrines. Shigar Fort and Khaplu Palace, two of the picturesque country's best-kept hotels, have been refurbished by the Serena hotel brand. Both provide regional cuisine like Mamtu dumplings and grilled trout while being surrounded by gardens and built using wood that is climate-friendly.

    Photo: Guide to Pakistan
    Photo: Guide to Pakistan
    Photo: Zameen.com
    Photo: Zameen.com
  4. Despite being only 150 km (93 miles) north of Tokyo, Nikko has a completely different atmosphere. With its beautiful, gold-dripping Toshogu Shrine as its focal point, this little city is one of the most significant locations in Japan for Shinto culture. Nikko is the best spot to discover tranquility if that's what you're looking for. Nikko National Park is a 443 square mile area spread across three prefectures. It is home to stunning waterfalls, groves of fir and cedar trees, intricately carved gates, and rocky outcroppings. The park is also home to a number of Japan's well-known natural hot springs, which makes Nikko a fantastic visit during the fall or winter. In particular, the Okunikko region around Lake Chuzenji in Nikko is well known for its stunning autumnal hues (koyo). On average, the colors begin to fade from Yumoto Onsen's higher elevations in early October, peak at Lake Chuzenji and the Irohazaka route in the middle to late month, and finally reach Nikko in the first half of November.


    The 103 buildings that make up Nikko's World Heritage temples and pagodas are dispersed among three complexes. You can spend an incredible day learning about Japan's most priceless religious architecture thanks to the fact that they are all within easy walking distance. Mountain worship has a long history, and it is still practiced in Nikko National Park. The entire region is covered by the three sacred mountains Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro, together known as Nikko Sanzan. You can ascend these mountains to reach the mystery portion of the region.

    Photo: KKday
    Photo: KKday
    Photo: Hotels.com
    Photo: Hotels.com
  5. Davao City is a true tapestry of Filipino culture unlike found anywhere else in the country and is more than just the provincial capital of the southernmost region of the Philippines. The Roxas Night Market has something for everyone, including grilled and barbecued fish, as well as simple but exquisite dishes like substantial law-uy vegetable soup and fresh seaweed salad called lato. Pungent durians, which are widely grown in the area together with pineapples, bananas, and sugarcane and are served in a variety of dishes from shakes to pies, are what best characterize Davao. The city takes pride in its native heritage and holds the Kadwayan Festival in August to display local textiles, woodwork, song, and dance from 11 tribes that rule from the surrounding mountains and sea. You can reach opulent Samal Island, well renowned for its immaculate beaches and pearl farms, by taking a ferry from the city. Travel by car down the palm tree-lined roads that lead to Mati, a popular surfing location, or take a side excursion to Mount Apo, the Philippines' tallest mountain and active volcano.


    Davao is proud to protect its magnificent natural wonders. You may ascend to Mount Apo, the highest point in the Philippines, or descend to Samal Island's deepest seas. It kindly offers their Philippine Eagle Center, which houses the uncommon but endangered species of the Philippines like the monkey-eating eagle, if you're interested in learning more about wildlife preservation. Davao has a variety of attractions to suit everyone's preferences. As Filipinos, Dabawenyos are unquestionably friendly. The inhabitants of this country are kind and pleasant, and most, if not all, will smile at you when you arrive. Talk to some people and enjoy yourself as you make memories that will remind you why Davao is one of the nicest places you'll ever visit. That's all about the fifth underrated place to visit in Asia we want to mention.

    Photo: KAYAK
    Photo: KAYAK
    Photo: Forbes
    Photo: Forbes
  6. Meghalaya, which means "abode in the clouds" in English, is a state in northeastern India and is home to some of the region's most tranquil and beautiful scenery. It could be difficult to visit because a permit is needed. It's worthwhile, though. The settlements of Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong are located in Meghalaya. Both locations hold the record for being the wettest on Earth, with an average annual rainfall of around 12,000 mm (472 inches). As a result, the state's iconic bridges provide access to lush, leafy forests with rivers and creeks that can be explored. Locals constructed these 500-year-old structures out of ficus tree roots to represent the Khasi tribe's independence and connection to the wild. Over 70 villages have living root bridges, also known as "jingkieng jri" in Khasi, which are still utilized and cared for by residents today to preserve them for future generations.


    Some of the well-known tourism destinations in Meghalaya include Shillong, Tura, Jowai, Cherrapunjee, Nongpoh, and Baghmara. More specifically, Meghalaya has many tourist destinations that are well worth visiting, including Wards Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Sweet Falls, the Butterfly Museum, Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Thangkarang Park, Eco Park, Khoh Ramhah, and Green Rock Ranch. When it comes to bringing something back, you'll be happy with your bag of moments becoming memories and the ability to bring along the exquisite handiwork created by this state's citizens. Overall, this incredibly lovely, lush, and vibrant state is ideal for vacations and may be enthusiastically enjoyed by all! They were included on UNESCO's potential list of World Heritage sites in 2022. The Umshiang Double Decker root bridge in Nongriat village, south of Cherrapunji, and one in Riwai in Mawlynnong, which has been recognized by UNESCO as the "cleanest village in Asia" since 2003, are the most well-known living root bridges.

    Photo: Memphis Tours
    Photo: Memphis Tours
    Photo: Swirlster
    Photo: Swirlster
  7. Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam would be the next underrated place to visit in Asia. The UNESCO-listed waterway Ha Long Bay in northern Vietnam is well-known and has long been a favorite of both luxury and budget vacationers. But travelers should head to Lan Ha, south of Ha Long Bay, if they wish to navigate the waters with a lot fewer neighbors. Similar to its more well-known sibling, Lan Ha Bay is a glistening body of water dotted with islands made of limestone (karst), which may be visited either for a day trip (by kayak or canoe) or an overnight stay (cruise ship, junk boat). The majority of visitors arrive by bus or automobile from Hanoi or Haiphong, and it is simple to arrange door-to-door service with tour operators in advance. Leave Cat Ba Island to explore the white-sand beaches, grottoes, and caves of Lan Ha Bay.


    The bay's unique feature is its abundance of islands with sandy beaches at the base of the mountains, which enhances the area's natural beauty and allows guests to visit the boat to wander on the sand or swim at these pristine sand beaches. Due to its pristine and serene natural beauty, Lan Ha Bay is now second only to Ha Long Bay in popularity among domestic and international tourists as a resort destination. Lan Ha Bay is regarded as one of Vietnam's most beautiful bays, despite the fact that few tourists are aware of it. Lan Ha Bay is at its most beautiful during the transition from summer to fall, when the temperature is mild, calm, and tempered by the cold ocean breeze, which makes tourists feel at ease and relaxed while sailing and taking in the bay.

    Photo: Mon Chéri Cruises
    Photo: Mon Chéri Cruises
    Photo: IZITOUR.com
    Photo: IZITOUR.com
  8. Bangladesh is one of India's long-shadowed neighbors when it comes to tourism. Although it is a smaller country, South Asia has a lot to offer that many tourists may not be aware of. This is particularly true of food, history, nature, and architecture. The Ahsan Manzil is an elaborate, magnificent pink structure in the Bangladeshi city of Dhaka. It was completed in 1872 during the British colonial era as a palace for the local rulers of the time and is located on the banks of the Buriganga River. Today, it is a well-liked museum. Visit the unfinished Lalbagh Fort to see an example of the architectural beauty of the Mughal Empire. And if you want to go to a mosque, think about going to the stunning Tara Masjid, which is known for having hundreds of blue stars on its brilliant white domes.


    Bangladesh is endowed with a wealth of scenic features, including mountains, rivers, beaches, flora and fauna, ancient archaeological sites, medieval monasteries, temples, pagodas, mosques, and churches, among many others. The gorgeous Himalayas are located some distance to the north, and the Bay of Bengal is located some distance to the south. There are several streams and rich vegetation in this large delta. Its Padma (Ganges), Meghna, and Jamuna rivers sculpt the lush plains, while the monsoon gives the essential rain to cool the sweltering summer, creating a lovely climate all year long. The seventh-best value vacation destination for 2019 according to Lonely Planet, the world's largest publisher of travel guides, is Bangladesh. But in actuality, the entirety of Bangladesh is a well-known ecotourism hotspot with a wide variety of natural treasures.

    Photo: Tripoto
    Photo: Tripoto
    Photo: Nomad Paradise
    Photo: Nomad Paradise
  9. The boomerang-shaped Pulau Ubin has a surface area of roughly 10.2 square kilometers. Less than 100 homes live on the island, which is in the Johor Strait northeast of Singapore's main island. Despite being relatively near to the mainland, visiting Pulau Ubin will make you feel as though you are exploring an earlier Singapore. The majority of the island's territory is still covered in beautiful forests, and many of its homes still display remnants of its historic architecture. The island is easy to navigate since, in typical Singaporean fashion, everything is clearly designated, from forest trails to concrete sidewalks. Despite this, the island is still largely undeveloped. Mountain riding is very well-liked, especially during the week when there are fewer people around. But on weekends, Ubin really comes to life as families, couples, and nature enthusiasts flock there in search of a glimpse of the past Singapore.


    Visitors can immerse themselves in the rural community atmosphere surrounded by granite quarries, coconut and rubber plantations, mangrove forests, shrimp and fish ponds, and "kelong" small wooden houses used for traditional fishing because the majority of the island's natural environment has been preserved. You can take a walk or ride a bike here to take in the clean, natural air. In the village, you may hire bicycles. New bike paths provide conveniences like rest areas and restrooms along the route. You can also plan an overnight camping trip or a natural exploration tour here, as well as go fishing, flying kites, climbing hills, and watching birds sing. Chek Jawa is a saltwater mangrove wetland with a variety of marine life, making it one of the island's most well-known attractions. Through the mangrove, a sturdy wooden walkway allows visitors to get up close and personal with plants and aquatic life like sea sponges, octopuses, starfish, and cuttlefish.

    Photo: Trevallog
    Photo: Trevallog
    Photo: Sassy Mama Singapore
    Photo: Sassy Mama Singapore
  10. To end the list underrated places to visit in Asia, we want to mention Tengchong, China. Despite the fact that China is still off limits to foreign tourists, Yunnan province alone received 350 million domestic tourists in the first half of 2022. Go to Tengchong if you want to experience historical Yunnan like a seasoned local. Tengchong, located in western Yunnan and bordering Myanmar, served as a significant commerce hub along the ancient Tea Horse Road and Silk Road. Heshun, an ancient village constructed around a mountain and a lake, is now frequently visited by local visitors as their first stop. Some must-sees when visiting the quaint village include the Double Rainbow stone arch bridges, the Laundry Pavilion, and the 98-year-old Heshun Library, the largest rural public library in China.


    The most well-known of Thengchong's three main geothermal sites is the Hot Sea scenic area, which is located in the southwest. The Hot Sea picturesque region, which spans nine square kilometers, is home to more than 80 hot springs and geysers, with the hot spring water's peak temperature reaching 96.3 degrees Celsius. There is a really soothing hot spring bath available. Additionally, you can steam maize, peanuts, and eggs while visiting the spa. The tranquil town of Heshun is four kilometers from Tengchong. The town is full with diverse natural and cultural landscapes. Heshun, a halt along the historic Silk Road, is a location where several cultures coexisted while maintaining a strong sense of its own ethnic character. It is advised that visitors stay a few days in this peaceful town and visit some well-known tourist attractions, including the Heshun Library, the Clothes-Washing Pavilion, and the Wenchang Temple.

    Photo: EYESHENZHEN
    Photo: EYESHENZHEN
    Photo: CGTN
    Photo: CGTN




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