Asia is massive and has so many incredible places to visit, it'll take you multiple trips to see even half of the amazing things the continent has to offer. You'll find everything from relaxing beach getaways, to incredible temples and feats of engineering. Asia has something for every type of traveler. That's why we have compiled a list of 20 tourist must-see places across all of Asia, to help you get the most out of your trip!
1. Taj Mahal, India
Feast your eyes on the Taj Mahal, a stunning mausoleum built by Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife. Many people consider it to be the jewel of India. Its incredibly detailed architecture and symmetrical design make it quite the site to behold.
Photo by Tim van Kempen on Unsplash
2. The Great Wall of China, China
Take a walk along the Great Wall of China, one of the most impressive man made structures in the world. It stretches over 20,000 kilometers and was the primary defense against foreign invaders. Couldn’t they have just used ladders?
Photo by Damir Kalić on Unsplash
3. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Take a trip to Angkor Wat and visit the largest religious monument ever built. The temple is lined with massively detailed pillars and carvings. Quite the remarkable and grand architecture for its time.
Photo by allPhoto Bangkok on Unsplash
4. Petra, Jordan
Take a camel ride over to Petra, and visit the famous “Rose City” carved out of the side of a stone cliff. This amazingly elaborate temple and cave system was built way back in the 3rd century BC. It’s amazing that they were able to build such an intricate temple with the tools they had at the time.
Photo by Mihaela Claudia Puscas on Unsplas
5. Tokyo Skytree, Japan
Catch some incredible views from the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the entire world. Its total height is measured at 634 meters, and has two separate observation levels that allow you to see Tokyo like you’ve never seen it before.
Photo by Kakidai on Wikimedia Commons
6. Bali, Indonesia
Take a relaxing getaway on the beaches of Bali. You’ll find some of the best seaside resorts with crystal clear water, perfect for scuba diving the vibrant coral reefs. You’ll can also take a stroll into the town and visit the many temples and art markets.
Photo by Alexa West on Unsplash
7. Bagan, Myanmar
Take in the endless rows of temples, monasteries, and pagodas found in the ancient city of Bagan. You’ll find over 2000 monuments built over 1500 years, and get a close look at the architectural and cultural changes that happened over time. It’s also quite beautiful at sunset.
Photo by Thien Kim Nguyen Trinh on Unspla
8. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Catch views from the ocean of Ha Long Bay. The Bay is famous for the stunning untouched limestone formations covered in forests, that overlook some of the clearest water out there. You’ll find some of the most incredible views of these untouched islands.
Photo by allPhoto Bangkok on Unsplash
9. Mount Everest, Nepal
See if you can make the trek and stand atop the highest mountain on earth, Mount Everest. Its peak stands at 29000ft above sea level. It is quite the feat, but it's a perfect thrill seeker's adventure and you’ll be rewarded with truly one of a kind views.
Photo by kabita Darlami on Unsplash
10. Borobudur Temple, Indonesia
Gaze upon the largest Buddhist monument in Indonesia. The temple was built in the 8th and 9th century BC, during the reign of the Syailendra Dynasty. You’ll find the rows of massive bell shaped towers surrounding the temple to be quite a unique and impressive design.
11. The Maldives
There is no better place to relax and de-stress than in the Maldives. It’s basically a tropical paradise famous for their white sandy beaches and lagoons. You’ll find a mix of luxurious and affordable resorts, perfect for any couple or family relaxing getaway.
Photo by Mike Swigunski on Unsplash
12. Dead Sea, Israel/Jordan
Slide into the waters of the Dead Sea and float away til your hearts content. The waters unusually high salt and mineral content is apparently good for your skin and allows you to float effortlessly. It’s quite the unique swimming experience, just be careful if you ever put your head under the water!
Photo by Immanuel Giel on Wikimedia Commons
13. Jeju Island, South Korea
Take a trip to the island of Jeju. Enjoy some fresh delicious seafood, fall asleep on the beach, or stroll around the beautiful countryside. The trip is the perfect honeymoon destination for people who want an intimate experience.
Photo by Harry Cunningham on Unsplash
14. Walled City of Lahore, Pakistan
Tour the incredible Walled City of Lahore, and it’s 13 gates. Known as the walled city due to the reinforced mud wall that surrounds it. This dense city is home to the many Mughal monuments, mosques and palaces, making it full of rich culture and history.
Photo by Malik Tayyab on Unsplash
15. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sri Lanka
In Sigiriya, you’ll find an incredible stone fortress that contains ancient works of art and gardens at it’s peak. the structure was built on an expired volcano, allowing it to last for so long. Many archaeologists flock to the location for its importance in understanding Sri Lankan history.
Photo by Kelum Chathuranga on Unsplash
16. Chocolate Hills, Philippines
Go on a hike around the Chocolate Hills in the Philippines. The round hills are covered in grass that dry and brown throughout the season giving them a “chocolate” like color. They look as if they would fit perfectly in Charlie and The Chocolate Factory!
17. Terracotta Army, China
Take a tour of the Terracotta Army in China. The first Emperor was buried along side 1000s of life-sized terracotta warriors. It is one of the world biggest archeological sites, showing the significance and culture of the Qin Shi Huang Dynasty.
Photo by Aaron Greenwood on Unsplash
18. Gili Islands, Indonesia
For another tropical destination, visit the Gili islands. Any fans of snorkelling or diving will find the secluded nature and abundance of marine life in the surrounding waters to be spectacular. Be aware there is no motor transportation on the island, so you’ll definitely be getting your steps in!
Photo by Fajruddin Mudzakkir on Unsplash
19. Baikal Lake, Russia
Dare to jump into Baikal Lake. It is both the deepest and oldest freshwater lake found on our beautiful planet. Enjoy the refreshing ice cold water while you’re surrounded by mountains in every direction. A perfect spot for the adventure seeker to get those views you’ve always dreamed of.
Photo by Sergey Pesterev on Wikimedia Commons
20. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Take a trip down to the Gardens by the Bay in Singapore. It showcases a masterclass in ecological sustainability with its many “super trees.” These supports help the trees grow and produce, effectively giving us a glimpse into the future of vertical farming.
