Southeast Asia awaits you with its historical sites, dense forests, secluded beaches, and a tropical balmy climate. Besides its best places to visit, it is a treasure trove of hidden spots. But why scout for hidden spots? Because many of us want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The offbeat destinations are perfect for unwinding in tranquillity, whether you take on a solo trip or spending time with someone special. For example, although famous for its tourist attractions such as Angkor Wat, Cambodia can also be explored for Banteay Chhmar. It is a temple site with intriguing architecture and mystical stories.
Bukit Cinta, Bali
Bukit Cinta also known as “Love Hill” is an offbeat destination best explored with the Bali tour packages. It is around thirty minutes from Amed and is a magical vantage point to marvel at the rising sun. Bukit Cinta is filled with gorgeous scenic views of lush rice fields, verdant hills, and the majestic Mount Agung resting in the distance.
The ideal time and season to visit Bukit Cinta is during the dry season lasting from April to September. It is one’s best chance to view clear skies and stunning views. At dawn, the hills provide alluring views of the city as visitors can indulge in a stroll along the hill’s pathways and soak in the enchanting vistas.
Couples flock to Bukit Cinta to celebrate their love and commitment and many times leave behind love locks as tokens of their affection.
Hua Hin, Thailand
Hua Hin lies about 200 km southwest of Bangkok and has evolved from a fishing village to a hub of adventure activities. With the Thailand Tour Packages visit this hidden gem as you indulge in water sports, hiking, horse riding, and even golfing.
The perfect place to unwind and relax is the Hu Hin beach which is a four km long stretch of white sandy beaches and alluring views of the Gulf of Thailand. The beach is famous for its watersports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and water skiing. If you are a wildlife lover and have a keen interest in elephants then visit the Hutsadin Elephant Foundation. The foundation takes care of rescued and abandoned elephants.
Visit the Cicada Night Market which is an open-air market that showcases local arts, crafts, and yummy street food. Golf fanatics can have their fill as they can visit amazing golfing courses such as Black Mountain Golf Club. Dive into the rich marine life at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, famed for its beautiful beaches and limestone caves.
Quy Nhon, Vietnam
Quy Nhon is located in central Vietnam and is an offbeat destination famous for its pristine beaches, virgin islands, and seafood delicacies. This coastal town far away from the maddening crowds is a melting pot of natural beauty and old-world charm.
One of the best places to visit in Quy Nhon is the Thap Doi Towers, as these magnificent remnants are around a thousand years old. To experience the laid-back vibe, relax on the pristine beaches, especially Bai Xep Beach and the picturesque Ky Co beach which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling.
Nature lovers and thrill seekers can trek to the stunning Eo cliffs known for their natural beauty and hidden caves.
Kampot, Cambodia
Kampot lies snuggled along the banks of the Preaek Tuek Chhu River and provides an escape from the hustle and bustle. The town is known for its French colonial architecture and Bokor National Park is popular for its hiking trails and wildlife sightings.
The best place to kickstart your trip is the Durian Roundabout, which is Kampot’s iconic landmark. The landmark is an oversized sculpture of the durian which is a popular fruit of Southeast Asia. Visit the Old Market Street which divides Kampot into two halves with the Durian Roundabout to the north and the Saltworkers Roundabout to the south.
Farm Link is the renowned pepper plantation centre located in Kampot. It is famous for its Kadode Kampot Pepper and visitors can explore the place by participating in workshops where they can learn about collecting pepper, tasting, and witnessing pepper processes like drying, sorting, and packing.
Sandakan, Malaysia
Sandakan is one of the less popular destinations in Malaysia. But it still stands out because of its place in history. Earlier known as “Elopura” is the second largest city of Sabah and is mostly visited for its world-renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Kinabatangan River.
This coastal city is immersed in history and evokes the memories of the Second World War’s tragic Sandakan Death Marches where prisoners endured torture and harrowing conditions. The city in the present day honours those who lost their lives with memorials and museums as reminders of the human spirit.
A must-visit attraction in Sandakan is the Malaysian Turtle Island, a cluster of three islands-Selingaan, Little Bakkungan, and Gulisaan and are ideal for spotting green turtles and hawksbill turtles.
Hsipaw, Myanmar
Hsipaw is an ancient royal city and an excellent choice for hikers and anyone looking to experience the traditional Shan Town. This hill station is located on the banks of the Duthawadi River and houses two massive monuments namely Modaya and Bamboo Buddha monasteries made of teak.
Sunset Hill is the famous hill where Thein Daung Pagoda is located. It is also known as the Nine Buddha Hill and is visited by locals and tourists alike to marvel at the lovely sunsets.
Batanes, Philippines
Batanes is a remote archipelago located in the northernmost part of the Philippines. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers. It is known for its jagged landscapes, verdant hills, and quaint stone houses that provide a sneak peek into a simpler way of life.
It is also known as the “Home of the Winds” because of its windy weather. The province has ten islands out of which only three are inhabited namely Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat. Visitors can explore the tiny hamlets, hike, and marvel at the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. The prime highlights to visit include the Basco lighthouse to the unique culture of the Ivatans, the island’s first settlers.
Conclusion
These rare gems of Southeast Asia provide travellers with a unique chance to be part of rich culture, alluring landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. Plan your bucket list as you include magnificent beaches, ancient temples, and wilderness as there is something for everyone to discover and cherish in this region.
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