The continent of Asia is simply amazing and while you can visit there at any time, there are a few best places to visit in Asia every month. When you choose to follow these guidelines and visit specific destinations each month, you will find that your time in this part of the world exceeds your expectations. The reason for this is that you won’t need to worry about not having anything do to, dealing with horrendous weather, or worrying about overcrowding in some of the more popular destinations.
Best Places to Visit in Asia Every Month
Best Places to Visit in January in Asia
Tourism in Asia is slow during the month of January, so you will not need to worry about the crowds ruining your travel. Plus, since the weather in this part of the world is still warm, you won’t need to pack a heavy coat or any other type of winter wear. While you can visit any part of Asia during this time, I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to visit in Asia in January.
1) Luang Prabang, Laos
The gorgeous landscape of Luang Prabang should be enough to get you to visit, but if you need more, consider the expanding arts scene and the cafés that are popping up on every corner. What used to be the sleepiest part of Laos has now transformed into a bustling area that will capture your attention at this time of the year.
2) Bangkok, Thailand
This massive city will keep you on your toes, whether you are interested in trying out the newest Michelin star restaurants or finding your way amongst the creative arts scene. There are many new art spaces opening up, so you can try them all out when you are not outside enjoying the beautiful weather.
3) Singapore City, Singapore
The weather is much cooler in Singapore City at this time of the year, which is perfect since this is when many outdoor festivals are held. St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival is quite popular, and you never know which international headliners are going to show up to steal the show.
Best Places to Visit in February in Asia
The New Year is celebrated at many different times over in Asia, so depending on where you are, you may be in for a treat during the month of February, because that is when Chinese New Year is held. Of course, you do not need to celebrate a New Year, other than your own, when it comes to seeing the best places to visit in Asia in February. Here are a couple of my favorites.
1) Moc Chau, Vietnam
Moc Chau can be found within the Son La Province in Vietnam and it is quite easy to reach from the city of Hanoi. The weather is cooler here at this time of the year, but it is not as bitter cold as the winter months. The trees are all covered in blossoms and you can watch them grow and turn more colorful during your visit. A few of the must-see sights in Moc Chau at this time of the year include Ang Village, Phieng Canh, and Long Luong.
2) Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Rain is more prominent in this part of Vietnam, but the water allows for more activities when you are there. One of the best things to do in Mekong Delta at this time of the year is taking a river cruise, as you check out the floating markets over in Cai Rang. If the water isn’t too high, you can also take a bike ride to many of the local villages
3) Da Lat, Vietnam
As you can see, Vietnam is one of the best places to visit in February in Asia, due to the weather and the beauty that is beginning to blossom. Da Lat is also called the City of Eternal Spring and it is during the month of February that you can attend the infamous flower festival there. When the festival is over, you might want to consider walking along the Lang Biang Trail or seeing Elephant Falls and the Lake of Signs.
Best Places to Visit in March in Asia
The temperatures quickly rise at this time of the year in Asia and this is when their dry season begins as well. Thankfully, the humidity stays low, so you can enjoy multiple activities without worrying about falling over from being overheated. Here are my favorite best places to visit in Asia in March.
1) Koh Phangan, Thailand
This island in Thailand becomes very crowded in March when the Full Moon Party takes place. While a Full Moon Party is held for every full moon, the one in March is the one to be at, and tens of thousands of people show up for it. Since the island will be packed, you must plan this trip well in advance, and plan on joining in on the fun and not doing anything else while you are there.
2) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
If you have always wanted to see a Holi Festival, then you must be in Kuala Lumpur in March when this Hindu celebration is held every year. During this festival, people dance around in a frenzy, while covering each other in colored dye. This is quite the messy festival and while it is the worst over in India, you will get the picture when you celebrate it in this fabulous city.
3) Bali, Indonesia
Not many people want to stay quiet while on vacation, but if you happen to be in Bali for Nyepi, or the Balinese Day of Silence, you must! On this day, the entire island of Bali is shut down and no one makes a sound. You must stay in your room, keep the lights off, and never speak more than a whisper, if at all. Don’t worry, you might be sleeping the day away, because the night before is full of fireworks and lots of partying!
Best Places to Visit in April in Asia
The rainy season approaches Asia at this time of the year, so while the temperatures are still warm, there is a chance of rain at any time of the day. Some countries in Southeast Asia will experience the opposite though and they will finally start to dry out after a long wet winter. A few of the best places to visit in Asia in April are some of my personal favorites.
1) Chiang Mai, Thailand
This fabulous city is a must-visit due to the Songkran festival that takes place this month. This New Year’s celebration is full of water and the locals can be seen in the streets as they splash, dance, and have numerous water fights. You must be prepared to get soaked when you attend this festival, so make sure you are in clothes that will dry quickly.
2) Hanoi, Vietnam
This is one of the many cities in Vietnam that celebrates Reunification Day in April every year. A temporary stage is constructed, and performances are held on the streets throughout this city. While this is a great time to see the flag waving and all the locals in one place, you may miss out on some of the best that Hanoi has to offer. The reason for this is that many major attractions close down for this event and those that stay open will have extremely long lines.
3) Bali, Thailand
Yes, Bali has multiple months that are perfect for visits, but April is the one where the weather is practically picture perfect! The weather is nice, and the massive crowds have yet to arrive to start celebrating summer.
Best Places to Visit in May in Asia
The month of May brings warmer temperatures to Asia, as well as some much-needed rain in some areas. However, many tourists hold out on traveling there until June or July, which is why this month is one of the best for many of these destinations. When it comes to the best places to visit in Asia in May, only a couple make my list.
1) Singapore
Singapore is gorgeous at any time of the year, but the month of May brings weather that is perfect for sunbathing on the beach, shopping, and simply roaming around seeing the sights. I recommend taking the time to see Sentosa and the Gardens by the Bay, but you might also want to visit Universal Studios Singapore if you have the time and the energy.
2) Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is one of the best places to visit in Asia, especially if you are looking for a vibrant nightlife at the end of every long day. When you are exploring during the day, you must see many of the infamous temples that are in this city. A few of my favorite attractions in Bangkok are Wat Arun Ratchawararam, the Grand Palace, and the Temple of the Emerald Palace.
3) Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap, Cambodia might be a small town, but it packs a huge punch when it comes to attractions and things to do. While Angkor Wat is the most popular temple, you may also want to see Nayon and Angkor Thom during your visit.
Best Places to Visit in June in Asia
The weather in Asia can change in a heartbeat at this time of the year, so you must be prepared for almost anything when you visit. While you may hesitate to go, due to the possibility of rain and heavy storms, I recommend that you reconsider since many festivals are held there during this month. You may have a hard time deciding what the best places to visit in Asia in June are, but I have a couple in mind.
1) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
This is one of the drier months in this huge city, which is perfect if you want to wander through the streets looking for something new. The modern touches add to the ambiance of Kuala Lumpur, and while some bars and restaurants are pricy, you can still find amazing deals on both food and beer. You may want to explore some of the other areas of Malaysia after staying in the city for a few days, but this also makes a wonderful spot for day trips.
2) Chiang Mai, Thailand
Since this city is in northern Thailand, you will see less rain during the month of June. While you are out exploring the temples and other cultural attractions, you will see the mountains in the background. Those mountains will beckon until you give in and finally take the time to hike the trails and participate in many of the other outdoor activities.
3) Bali, Thailand
If you do not mind massive crowds, then Bali is perfect during the month of June. You may get wet while experiencing the Bali Arts Festival, but you will be having so much fun learning the traditional Balinese dance that you will not notice. This is the busiest month on this island, so you will have a hard time escaping if it all becomes too much for you.
Best Places to Visit in July in Asia
During the month of July in Asia, you are either going to see extremely hot temperatures or enough rain to make you feel like you are floating away. Thankfully, I have a few of the best places to visit in Asia in July for you.
1) Penang, Malaysia
The area of Georgetown in Penang became a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 2008 and that special occasion has been celebrated every year since. Georgetown Heritage Day is held on July 8th and a massive festival is held all throughout Penang. There is a ton of different street foods for you to try, so plan on arriving hungry and not needing to eat for days afterwards.
2) Koh Phangan, Thailand
July isn’t the busiest when it comes to Full Moon parties on Koh Phangan, but it is a wonderful month to visit due to the weather. Accommodations book rather quickly during this month, so determine when the full moon will be and plan your travel accordingly.
3) Nha Trang, Vietnam
Nha Trang very rarely gets rain during the month of July, or at any other time of the year, so it is the perfect place for a beach vacation. This beach town will have you relaxing in paradise in no time at all and since many expats live there, you can have a taste of home while halfway around the world. While you will see many foods from back home as well, make sure you take the time to try some of the local cuisine or you will really be missing out on some deliciousness.
Best Places to Visit in August in Asia
It will be a toss up between the extreme heat and the pouring rain when choosing one of the best places to visit in Asia in August. However, there are a couple destinations that should be on your list.
1) Langkawi, Malaysia
Monsoon season arrives in Langkawi during the month of August, but you can get some amazing deals on this otherwise really expensive destination. Unless a monsoon does hit, you can still have thrilling experiences in this part of Malaysia. A few of the best include parasailing, taking a cable car ride to see magnificent views, and wandering through the Ayer Hangat Night Market on Friday evenings.
2) Bangkok, Thailand
You might need to spend more time inside due to the rain in Bangkok this month, but there will still be plenty for you to do. After making a stop at the must-see Wat Arun Temple, you can shop at the markets, visit an oriental spa, and finally take that tour of the Grand Palace.
3) Singapore
The weather in Singapore rarely changes, which is why August might be the best time for a visit. While it is still hot, you won’t see as much rain as other parts of Southeast Asia. A day tour of Bintan Island can be fun, but you may prefer to spend your days at Marina Bay Sands and in the Cloud Forest. Whatever you choose, do not forget to do a little shopping over on Bugis Street.
Best Places to Visit in September in Asia
The rain never seems to end in Southeast Asia and September can be just as rainy as the few months prior. However, if you can brave the rain, you will find that many destinations are clearing out since students are back in school and summer is officially over. Here are a couple of the best places to visit in Asia in September.
1) Phuket, Thailand
While it still may be rainy in Thailand during the month of September, that won’t stop the locals from enjoying the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, or the Nine Emperors Gods Festival. This festival is nine days long and it is one of the most bizarre festivals within the country.
2) Bali, Thailand
The rain finally starts to subside, along with the crowds, on this popular island, which is why many couples will choose to visit at this time of the year. Beaches will be less crowded, and you can finally claim your spot in the sand without arriving well before dawn.
3) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Rain is still in the forecast in Kuala Lumpur, but this large city has plenty of things for you to do inside when it is really bad. The good news is that you have a fifty percent chance of it raining every day that you are there, so you might find a good day or two to get out and explore the rest of this fascinating city.
Best Places to Visit in October in Asia
Travel to the best places to visit in Asia in October is phenomenal, because your choices become even more plentiful than the summer months. The weather finally changes so there is less rain and you can finally enjoy gorgeous scenery without the major crowds.
1) Chiang Rai, Thailand
This unique city in Thailand is known for its art and culture and you will find more things to do than you have time for. A few of the must-see sights include Wat Rong Seur Ten, Wat Huay Pla Kang, and the Baandam Museum. Don’t forget to try some of the amazing Thai food and go out to experience the nightlife at least once when you are there.
2) Java, Indonesia
Quality time is possible over in Java, Indonesia where the city seamlessly meets the countryside. While the city is quite busy, you can find the solace in the surrounding areas. While you are here, you must visit the Borobudur Temple and do a little shopping in Badung. You might also want to take the time to see Sempu Island.
3) Halong Bay, Vietnam
Boat rides are a must in Halong Bay in Vietnam, as it is the best way to experience the floating villages and the area that surrounds the bay. When you are not on a boat, you may find yourself in the water snorkeling or scuba diving. Cat Ba National Park will also be calling your name, wanting you to explore the beauty that can be found along the trails.
Best Places to Visit in November in Asia
The weather in Southeast Asia is still nice during the month of November, so you will have quite a few options available to you. Here are my favorite best places to visit in Asia in November.
1) Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
These islands are one of the most beautiful parts of Southeast Asia, which is one of the many reasons you may want to consider visiting them during this month. You can simply sit on the beach, participate in water activities like snorkeling, or indulge in romantic dinners with a view of the setting sun.
2) Komodo, Indonesia
Komodo hasn’t been as popular in recent years, but that is exactly why you should visit this part of Indonesia. You can save some money while having the best experience of your life, as you wander around Komodo National Park and spend some time at Pink Beach. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the giant monitor lizard while you are there.
3) Boracay, Philippines
This small island is considered one of the top best places to visit in Southeast Asia, especially during the month of November. After spending days at the beach, you will finally be ready to do some exploring. It is then that you can venture out to Wiley’s Rock or go over to Yapak to watch the sun set late in the day.
Best Places to Visit in December in Asia
Holidays are plentiful during the month of December, which is why so many people spend the entire month traveling all over the world. While you can choose to visit any part of any country, I prefer to go to these best places to visit in Asia in December.
1) Palawan, Philippines
This gorgeous island of Philippines Poffers everything from diving to shipwrecks to massive limestone cliffs. When you are not island hopping or diving in El Nido, you might find that you are exploring the Tabon Caves or doing a little shopping inside the San Jose Market.
2) Vang Vieng, Laos
The limestone formations are what makes this part of Laos so spectacular and you will want to spend hours hiking the trails around them. When you are not hiking, you will find yourself doing a little rock climbing or ziplining. However, I recommend that you also visit the Tham Chang Cave for a unique experience.
3) Sihanoukville, Cambodia
It is all about the beach in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, so make sure that you want to relax before booking your trip here. I recommend that you spend most of your time at Serendipity Beach but take a few hours to venture out to Kbal Chhay Waterfall or go on a sailing tour as well.
These are the best places to visit in Asia every month, so you will never need to worry about when you can get time off from work. Simply choose your month and then find the perfect destination to fit your needs!
