Top 10 Countries in Asia to Visit

South East Asia has become the most popular hotspot for Tourists and Backpackers over last 2 Decades. Going a little further, I have complied a list of my favourite countries in Asia where you can spend your holidays and enjoy the surreal landscapes and plethora of activities at pocket-friendly prices.

1. India

I believe India is the most diverse and beautiful country to visit. From Snowcapped Himalayas to Beaches, Wildlife Safaris to Intricately Carved Temples, you would find everything in India. The biggest draw for most of the first time visitors is Taj Mahal, but the country offers way beyond that. Indian Cuisine alone can be further dissected into more than 20 cuisines based on regions & indigenous cultures.

2. Philippines

I love Island Life and therefore I love Philippines. The country is home to around 8000 islands, has amazing natural landscapes and the people are always happy to show you around. I spent a week exploring Palawan & Boracay and witnessed some of the most breathtaking scenery. Also, the country is relatively unexplored as compared to Thailand and Indonesia, and you can have the entire the beach to yourself at times.

3. Uzbekistan

Silk Route is what comes first to my mind when I think of Uzbekistan. I haven't seen such beautiful & intricate work ever before, as I saw in the mosques and Mausoleums of Uzbekistan. The markets are buzzing and the trains allow you to comfortably explore the beautiful cities of Tashkent, Samarkand & Bukhara.

4.China

I have not been to many places in China, but what little I have seen, it has left craving me for more. If Beijing has the historical squares & Great Wall of China, Shanghai is modern and buzzing. On one hand the country is coming up with latest tech attractions to entertain us and on other, towns of Guilin and Hunan are happy taking people back in time.

5. Thailand

Siam, has always been on travellers bucket List since ages. The country has the most developed tourism Infrastructure in Asia as per me and Thai Hospitality has raised standards around the world. If Chiang Mai offers Serene temples nestled in Mountains, Phuket would take you the beautiful islands and city of Bangkok would have something for you every-time you visit.

6. Vietnam

I had amazing food experiences in Vietnam, wherever I went. If Hanoi is Chaotic and Traditional, then Ho Chi Minh is Eclectic and modern. Halong Bay is the most popular draw for tourists around world, but you must go and explore Sand Dunes of Mui Ne, Caves in Central Vietnam and Hoi An, the most pretty small town I have ever visited.

7. Indonesia

Bali is the most visited Island in the world and for all the reasons. it deserves to be on the list. However the country is home to another 15,000 island that you can visit. I would highly recommend to go Beyond Bali and visit Lombok, Java, Borneo and Gili Islands.

8. Macau

Macau was a Portuguese territory , hence it reflects a mix of cultural influences. Its giant casinos and malls on the Cotai Strip, which joins the islands of Taipa and Coloane, have earned it the nickname, "Las Vegas of Asia." One of its more striking landmarks is the tall Macau Tower, with sweeping city views.

9. Maldives

The most dreamy landscapes are found here. There is no better place in the world if you want to enjoy a lavish water villa experience surrounded by Turquoise waters. Ideal Destination for honeymooners, surprisingly Maldives can be done on Budget as well and has tons of activities such as Diving, swimming with Dolphins and Whale Sharks to offer.

Dont forget to Check out my post : Maldives on Budget

10. Sri Lanka

I Recently Visited Sri Lanka and was blown away by the fact that for the size of this country it packs a punch. Beautiful beaches down the southern Coast, Tea Gardens in Hill Country and temple regions up north would keep you wondering where to explore first. I Believe Sri Lanka is best enjoyed when you slow down and rent a car driving around the country.

I wish to visit more countries in Asia, as the cultures and food tend to excite me. The places in Asia are not organised as in Europe, and that adds a whole lot of fun and adventure to the trip.

P.S. I really wish to visit Japan, Iran and Russia soon, and hope these countries make it to top of my list.