Holidays, Travel Guides
Top Asian Destinations to Visit This Month 2024
January, 2024
Are you planning a trip to Asia and searching for the best countries to visit in January? Then look no further! During the first month of the year, several amazing cities and countries across the continent offer the perfect getaway. From Tokyo to India, there are plenty of great options. Let’s look at some of the best Asia countries to visit in January.
- East Asia:
Tokyo is a great destination to explore in January. The typically mild weather and the vibrant city make it a popular choice for tourists looking to escape the cold. Tokyo is filled with plenty of cultural attractions, shopping, and food. The city is also home to some of the world’s most innovative technology companies, which visitors can explore when visiting the Tokyo Electronics Show.
South Korea is another excellent choice for travellers searching for an Eastern getaway in January. The country’s cities offer some of the best shopping in Asia as well as numerous cultural attractions. In addition, South Korea’s ski slopes make it an ideal destination for winter sports fans. Tourists can also experience the unique nightlife in Seoul, which is sure to make any trip even more fun.
- Southeast Asia:
Malaysia is an ideal destination for a tropical holiday. The country offers lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and some of the best cuisines in the region. January is also a great time to visit Malaysia as it is usually cooler and dryer than the hotter months. The city of Kuala Lumpur is especially popular, with its vibrant atmosphere and numerous historical and cultural attractions.
Other popular options thanks to cooler temperatures are Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.
- Farther south in Asia:
India is another incredible country to visit in January. With its ancient monuments, holy sites, and cultural attractions, India is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. However, January is also a great time to explore since the climate is much cooler than in the summer months. Major cities like Delhi and Mumbai are packed with temples, markets, and vibrant nightlife, so visitors will have plenty to enjoy.
- For some wonderful snowy mountain locations:
Try Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan for the ultimate thrill experience, particularly Kazakhstan due to its vast mountain landscapes and more extreme challenges for those daring adventurers.
It’s worth noting that Nepal and Tibet are visited in these months due to lower volumes in tourism, but the weather conditions can be quite extreme depending on where in the locations. Take Kathmandu for example, it’s less crowded by tourists and the cooler climate is welcome before the waves of tourists come in future months.
February, 2024
Although a great time to visit any country in Asia, February offers some stellar travel destinations particularly ideal for those seeking a mid-winter escape. So, if you’re looking for some warm weather and unique experiences, here’s a breakdown of the best Asian countries to visit in February.
- India
India is a massive country, with unique climates and experiences in each region. During February, the south of India is the ideal spot for beach lovers, with temperatures between 28-29°C (82-85°F) across the region. From scenic beaches to bustling cities, there’s something for everyone here. Goa is one of the best places to visit, with its stunning white-sand beaches, cultural variety, and lively nightlife.
- Nepal
With a mass of stunning terrains, from subtropical jungles to high mountain ranges, Nepal is a great place to visit in February. The temperatures average around 17°C (63°F) during this month, allowing for fantastic trekking opportunities across the country. My top pick is Chitwan, home to an incredible amount of wildlife and the exotic jungles of the Terai region.
- Thailand
A favourite for beach lovers, Thailand offers travellers tropical climates and stunning beaches. During February it’s usually between 28-30°C (82-86°F) throughout the country. Thailand has something for every traveller, from stunning beaches to cultural and culinary experiences. My personal recommendation is Koh Phangan, an idyllic island paradise filled with spectacles for everyone.
- Japan
Japan is one of the most popular destinations in Asia, with its blend of high-tech cities, incredible landscapes, and fascinating culture. A great time to visit, February sees mild temperatures and limited rainfall, making it the perfect time to explore the country’s many exciting activities. If you’re looking for something unique, then head to Kochi -one of Japan’s hidden gems featuring beautiful beaches and renowned street food.
- Indonesia
This Southeast Asian country is home to some of the world’s best beaches, jungles, and diverse cultures. With temperatures ranging in the mid-20s (77°F), February is the perfect time to explore. Some of the top destinations include Bali, famous for its stunning beach fronts and incredible temples, and panoramic Lombok Island. Or, for a truly unique experience, the Raja Ampat Islands boast some of the planet’s most vibrant animal and plant life.
- Other options for Classic Tours and other Active Tours:
Here are some worthy mentions to consider as popular alternatives. Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Bhutan.
It’s still ski season in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.
March, 2024
March is a great time of the year to travel around Asia. With milder temperatures, tropical climates, and the availability of inexpensive flights and accommodations, many Asian countries become popular destinations. Whether you’re looking for a city break, an adventure, or a relaxing getaway to a beach paradise, below are some of the best Asia countries to explore in March.
- Thailand
March is the start of hot season with slightly more rain than the drier months. However, the rain well-spaced out with mostly dry days in between. There are plenty of things to do and attractions to explore in Thailand, from the beautiful beachscapes to stunning natural landscapes. From the buzzing city of Bangkok to the forest-covered mountains of Chiang Mai, you can find something for everyone in March.
- Vietnam
Vietnam has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity. In March, the country experiences sunny skies and mild temperatures, making it a great month to explore this Southeast Asian gem. There are numerous interesting activities and attractions in Vietnam. From the bustle of its capital, Hanoi, to the charming Dalat in the Central Highlands, there is something for everyone in Vietnam.
- Japan:
Japan is a wonderful country that is full of ancient culture, thriving cities, stunning nature and iconic views. March is a great time to visit Japan, as the weather is mild with fewer crowds due to the cherry blossom festival being over. Popular sites like Tokyo and Kyoto offer plenty of historical and cultural attractions to explore, while Naoshima is a true paradise for art and nature lovers.
- Malaysia:
With its balmy temperatures and plenty of sunny days, March is a great time to visit Malaysia. Here you can experience the vibrant cities of Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, and Penang, or explore the untouched rainforests, exotic islands, and beautiful coastlines. March is also a great time to beer spot in the country, with microbreweries popping up all over the place.
- Sri Lanka:
Sri Lanka experiences two monsoons during the year, but thankfully for travellers, March is the transition month between these two monsoons. This makes it an ideal month to visit the country as temperatures are still comfortable and rainfall is low. There are plenty of attractions to enjoy in Sri Lanka, from stunning beaches to the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Cambodia:
Another ideal place to visit in March is Cambodia. Around this time weather throughout the country is in the early 30C temperatures and all the countries major sites are in full swing for the holiday season. Numbers of travellers will be growing but not at the stage of overcrowded at this time of year.
- Central Asia:
Central Asia starts to come alive in March with Uzbekistan a popular destination due to the rising temperatures and particularly the festival in the Navruz region. Tajikistan is also a popular choice especially Dushanbe. The horse games are a popular draw in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.
April, 2024
April is one of the most sought-after months for traveling in Asia. Here are the best Asian countries to visit in April.
- India:
From north to south, India is home to many famous monuments, beaches, mountains, and more. The capital city of New Delhi is known for the historic Red Fort while the city of Agra is home to the iconic Taj Mahal. April is the perfect time to visit India as the cooler temperatures make sightseeing much more enjoyable.
- Japan:
Whether you’re looking to marvel at the gorgeous cherry blossoms or explore the ancient temples, Japan has something for everyone. Popular tourist spots in Japan include Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and Kyoto. April is the perfect time to visit Japan as the weather is mostly cool and the days are longer.
- Thailand:
With an array of breath-taking beaches and beautiful islands, Thailand makes for a great holiday destination. Popular spots such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui welcome tourists with its vibrant culture and charm. April is an ideal time to visit as the temperatures remain bearable.
- Nepal:
Known for its mountainous terrain, Nepal is perfect for trekkers and mountain climbers. Trekking in the region can include stops at Kathmandu and Pokhara. Tourists can also visit popular Hindu sites such as Muktinath and Pashupati. The beginning of April marks the end of the dry season in Nepal, making it more suitable for activities such as trekking and mountain climbing.
- Sri Lanka:
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach retreat, then look no further than Sri Lanka. The country is home to stunning beaches, stunning wildlife, and a unique culture. April is the perfect time to visit as the temperatures are relatively cooler than other months.
- Bhutan:
Bhutan is a wonderful month to travel to trek its vast mountainous landscapes. Temperatures are at a nice level for this activity and the colours of spring bring the countries flora and fauna species to life.
- Malaysia:
Borneo comes alive, and the dryer climate brings the start of tourism to Sabah and Sarawak without the huge crowds of travellers that can come in later months. It’s an ideal month of the year to visit to appreciate the best sites with lots of room to breathe even though that should never be a problem in the vast landscapes of Borneo.
- South Korea:
It’s worth visiting as it’s spring and that means the start of the short Cherry blossom season where the country comes alive with spectacular blooms across the country. This is reason alone to visit but this is still the end of the countries winter season so temperatures may not be completely ideal for every traveller.
- Central Asia:
April is the start of peak season in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The silk road routes open on a more mass scale, and you can enjoy some lengthy tours of the historic routes that colour the Central Asia countries. The cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva have plenty of options for great tours in this month.
May, 2024
May is the gateway to summer in Asia and other regions around the world. With warmer temperatures and just the right amount of sunshine, it’s a great time for people to explore certain parts of Asia to experience their unique cultures and make some amazing memories! Here are some of the absolute best Asia countries to visit in May:
- Thailand:
With its beautiful tropical beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, Thailand is a must-visit spot in May. Thailand has numerous attractions, from bustling cities to laid-back rural areas. The country is known for its friendly people, exotic wildlife, great cuisines, and affordable prices. Whether you choose to explore Bangkok, the ancient ruins in Sukhothai, or chill at the beach in Koh Samui, you’ll never be disappointed!
- Singapore:
There is something for everyone in Singapore! From gorgeous gardens to urban attractions, you can find a place to unwind and relax during your visit to Singapore. With an array of food, festivals, and events happening all through the month of May, you’ll be sure to make some incredible memories here.
- Japan:
There’s so much to take in when you visit Japan in May! Start off in the bigger cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, and don’t miss out on the famous cherry blossoms when exploring the countryside. You’ll love the vibrant and exciting atmosphere of Japan, and with unique food, art, and culture, you may find yourself wanting to stay for a little longer!
- Vietnam:
This is a great place to explore in May. With its stunning landscapes and captivating cities, you’ll enjoy taking in the beauty of Vietnam. From the beaches of Nha Trang to the bustling cities of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, you’ll be able to take in the local culture, try different foods, and explore the striking sights.
- Indonesia:
This country might take a bit of planning to get around, but it’s certainly worth the effort. Indonesia is known for its stunning temples, lush jungles, and crystal-clear waters, all of which are sure to make your trip a memorable one. With its interesting heritage, diverse culture, and incredible landscapes, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
- China:
China is also enjoying improving weather and this is the month that is still relatively quiet and a good time to visit but with the crowds already here in mass some highly popular areas in the country can get quite busy so try exploring some local villages for a more fruitful experience and a welcome escape from those crowds.
- South Korea:
Like Japan, South Korea is also in full spring, and the cherry blossoms can be at their most beautiful in the countryside and some areas of Seoul.
- South and Central Asia:
May is also one of the best months to visit Tibet and this is a trekkers paradise with too many options to count, even with two hands.
May is when the silk and spice festival in Bukhara in Uzbekistan towards the end of the month and this is the country’s premium festival that should not be missed when planning to visit Central Asia. The neighbouring Tajikistan is well worth a visit during the month as well.
June, 2024
When it comes to planning a holiday to Asia, most travellers plan a trip during the winter months, as temperatures tend to be mild across the continent. However, a trip to Asia in the summer months of June and July can be just as rewarding, and there are several countries that are great for an unforgettable holiday during this time of year.
- China:
June is a great time to visit China as all the top attractions are fully open and temperatures are very nice in most areas of the country, even in Tibet. Summer in the northern part of the country is hot, while the southern region experiences a cooler wet season during that time.
- Vietnam:
Vietnam is very good to visit in June due to the varied temperatures making most of the country ideal to visit and the North is especially pleasant around this time. The central highlands are particularly beautiful and mild temperature in midsummer make it the perfect time for some trekking and exploration. In the north, you can bask in the air-conditioned comfort of Sapa or explore the spectacular Halong Bay.
- Japan:
The start of summer in Japan is an ideal time to visit as temperatures are at a good level throughout most of the country. You can explore ancient temples and shrines, explore the high-tech cities in Tokyo or Osaka, or take a hot-spring bath in Hakone. The blooming cherry blossom trees can also be seen in June, especially if you visit the Jigoku Valley near Hakone.
- Malaysia:
In June, Malaysia is enjoying dry and hot conditions and there is a wide range of activities such as diving in the reefs of Tioman Island, visiting the Perhentian Islands or the Cameron Highlands with its lush green tea plantations.
- Thailand:
The best time to visit Thailand is during June and July, as the temperatures are not too hot and the beaches are less crowded.
- India:
June is an ideal time to visit India, as the temperatures are mild and many festivals take place, including the world renowned Kumbh Mela festival.
- Singapore:
Singapore is a great choice for this month. The hot, humid weather during June is perfect for a getaway, offering a multitude of options such as outdoor adventures, shopping sprees and amazing attractions.
- Indonesia:
Indonesia is a wonderful choice for this month as the island vistas of Bali, Komodo, Lombok, Flores, Java and Gili are perfect for a paradise getaway and the beaches are at their most lush and welcoming.
- Other options in Central Asia and Southeast Asia:
June is the month where temperatures are reaching ideal conditions in the mountainous regions of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan for travel, while Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan are still enjoying hot temperatures before it becomes too hot.
Places to avoid include Cambodia, Myanmar, Philippines, Nepal and Bhutan as the good weather gives way to monsoons and heavy rains that makes holidaying especially hard, particularly Bhutan which is a place to not travel in June.
July, 2024
July is the ideal time to visit Thailand as the weather is relatively dry and the temperatures are perfect for exploring beautiful beaches, markets, and temples. With palm-fringed islands, stunning landscape, vibrant cities, and flavourful food, Thailand is sure to be a memorable trip.
- Malaysia:
Malaysia is a popular holiday destination for the summer months. Wherever you go, you’ll find incredible local food, exceptional shopping, and breath-taking scenery. In July, temperatures are generally warm and humid, but the rain is often light, making it a great time to explore.
- Borneo, Brunei and Indonesia:
These countries/regions are also enjoying ideal weather conditions throughout the countries and would make for ideal tropical escapes and a great time to appreciate the varied wildlife on offer in these locations.
- Japan:
July is typically very warm in Japan, but temperatures tend to be milder near the coastline. The first few weeks of the month are also the best time to witness Cherry Blossom season, making it a truly magical place to visit.
- South Korea:
South Korea is certainly a great place to visit in this summer month. Home to incredible sites such as the Demilitarized Zone between North Korea and South Korea, beautiful Buddhist temples, and K-pop stars, it’s a fascinating place to explore. Temperatures in July are usually hot and humid, with the highest temperatures hitting around 31°C (88°F) in the south of the country.
- China:
China is an ideal destination for July due to the hot temperatures in the popular cities of Shanghai, Beijing, Xian, and for treks along the Great Wall of China. For those looking to beat the heat, the terrain of the Yunnan province is cool and temperate, with plenty of outdoor activities to keep travellers busy. Plus, July is a great time to take advantage of the amazing street food all over the country.
- Sri Lanka:
Another good option is Sri Lanka as the monsoon season reaches its end and lots of locations are experiencing very pleasant weather as the rains subside and give way to warmer climates in many parts of the country. The same could also be said for Central Vietnam but avoid North and South of the country due to heavy rains.
- Central Asia:
The region enjoys its best weather in the mountain ranges, and this is the ideal time to explore these areas but avoid the lowlands in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan as the temperatures are simply scorching and no fun for anyone. For this reason, stick to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan and the Pamir Mountain Range.
- Monsoon Month in these countries:
The places to avoid this month are India, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, North Vietnam, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines and Maldives due to heavy rains and peak monsoon seasons.
