This article looks at the 5 most underrated travel destinations in Asia. If you wish to check out our detailed analysis of Travel Trends concerning Tourism in Asia, you may visit 20 Most Underrated Travel Destinations in Asia.
5. Koh Rong, Cambodia
IM Score: 2.30
At number 5 on our list of most underrated travel destinations in Asia, the island network of Koh Rong is the perfect location for a reclusive vacation. The island offers plenty of watersport activities and authentic Cambodian cuisine. It promises a tranquil escape from the stresses of everyday life, along with plenty of opportunities to explore coral reefs, lush green tropical forests, and waterfalls.
4. Ipoh, Malaysia
IM Score: 2.34
Present in the Kinta Valley, Ipoh offers a unique proposition of historical charm embellished with naturistic beauty. The city contains some of the most exquisite cave temples, including the Perak cave temple that features a 40-foot statue attributed to Buddha. If you come for its historical wonders, you’ll stay for its culinary delights. Every corner of the city features vibrant restaurants, offering some of the most appeasing food you will experience in your life.
3. Bagan, Myanmar
IM Score: 2.48
Myanmar, formerly Burma, is an extremely underrated tourist destination, primarily due to its gruesome history. The country is still classified at level 4 (i.e. do not travel) of the US travel advisory. However, the city of Bagan is generally considered safe among travelers and is worth a visit for adventure seekers. This tourist destination is home to some of the most jaw-dropping range of temples and pagodas found on the planet. The city houses over 1000 ancient temples, constructed while this city was the capital of the Pagan kingdom. Tourists can witness the 1500-year evolution of this historic city from the panoramic views of a hot air balloon. Much like the rest of Myanmar, Bagan is an untouched jewel, even among the most underrated travel destinations in Asia.
2. Luang Prabang, Laos
IM Score: 3.39
Luang Prabang is a stunning fusion of Buddhist temples, French colonial monuments, and natural wonders. The Kuang Si Waterfalls located just outside the city comprise of cascading turquoise pools, each of which is a perfect spot for a refreshing dip. You can also trek Mount Phousi to gain a scenic view of the Laos sunset, while visiting multiple Buddhist shrines along the way. Esthetes would particularly enjoy a visit to the Wat Xieng Thong temple which features incredible 16th century mosaics.
1. Dalat, Vietnam
IM Score: 3.62
The number one spot on our list of 20 most underrated travel destinations in Asia goes to the mountain perched city of Dalat, Vietnam. Termed as “the city of eternal springs”, Dalat was historically utilized by Nguyen rulers and French colonizers to escape the country’s scorching summers. Presently, the city boasts historical monuments as well as natural wonders such as orchid gardens and Xuan Huong Lake. Its abundance of flowers is demonstrated in the annual flower festival. One of the unique excursions in this city is a visit to the Crazy House, a creative blend of spiral staircases, hidden passages, and wobbly surfaces.
Insider Monkey focuses on uncovering the best investment ideas of hedge funds and insiders. Please subscribe to our free daily newsletter to get the latest investment ideas from hedge funds’ investor letters by entering your email address below. You can also take a peek at 15 Biggest Wind Energy Companies in the World and 20 Most Visited Cities in the US by Foreign Travelers.
