27 Destinations in Asia that Most People Don’t Know

Asia is the largest continent in the world covering almost 45 million square kilometers where approximately 4.5 billion people live.  A quite large part of Asia has become a popular travel destination for millions of tourists over the past few decades.

However, the vast majority remains undiscovered and less-visited and you can find a plethora of travel destinations that most people don’t even know about and they are waiting to be discovered by you.

I created a bucket list including the most extraordinary and phenomenal off the beaten spots in Asia to inspire adventure enthusiasts who dare and intrigued to discover what’s beyond the usual travel destinations.

To do that, I teamed up with world travelers who set their foot and explored the most magical and breathtaking places across Asia. They are now uncovering their top-secret Asian travel spots just for you.

The recommended travel destinations are categorized according to the five main regions of Asia: central, west, south, east, and southeast Asia.

Get ready to feel out of the world!

The secret map of the Globetrotting Detective

If you are reading this blog, I’m sure you love getting lost in the middle of nowhere. But before getting lost, I want you to find these mindblowing travel spots revealed by my world traveler friends. Therefore, I created this map for you.

Make sure to remember this secret map when COVID-19 is over and the world is again safe for traveling and vagabonding. Then, take it and head out into the world to discover all these epic places one by one.

Off the beaten travel destinations in Central Asia

1. The Gate to Hell, Turkmenistan #1 Destination in Asia that most people don’t know

In the Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan, you can find one of the strangest natural sites in the world, the Darvaza Gas Crater also known at the Gate To Hell,

The Gate to Hell was created by mistake in 1971 when a Soviet drilling rig accidentally drilled into a massive underground natural gas cavern. This caused the ground to collapse and the entire drilling rig to fall in. After the creation of the crater, Soviet Geologists set the entire crater on fire to prevent the spread of methane gas.

The Soviet Geologists thought the cavity would only burn for a few weeks; it has now been burning non-stop since 1971. That’s almost 50 years, and geologists still have no idea how much longer it will burn for. It might run out of gas tomorrow, or it can last for another 100 years.

While there is nothing else to do or see in the area around the crater, is it still worth staying the night there. Camping is the only option, either on your own or through a local tour company. The closest hotel is back in the capital, Ashgabat, 270 km away.

That means, you either have to do a long day trip or spend the night close to the crater. Public transportation doesn’t exist there. Therefore, taking a tour is the most comfortable option.

If you insist on using public transport, there is an option, though. It’s possible to take a local bus between Ashgabat and the northern part of Turkmenistan,  then you get off the bus at the intersection and walk 7 km on a dirt road to reach the crater.  But be aware there is nothing along the way and no facilities at the crater. So, you will have to carry all water, food and camping equipment.

The place might look impressive during daylight, but it’s during the night when it truly gets mind-blowing.

Recommended by Christian Lindgren from Unusual Traveler

2. Ala-Kul, Kyrgyzstan – #2 Destination in Asia that most people don’t know

Kyrgyzstan’s Ala-Kul is an impressive alpine lake at 3532 m high in the Tien Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan. Surrounded by snowcapped peaks and fed by a picturesque glacier, what would be a prime tourist destination elsewhere in the world remains off the beaten track in this small country at the heart of Central Asia.

Cresting the 3800 m Ala-Kul Pass, high above the lakeshore and perfectly located above a bend in the lake to capture the whole 2.8 km length, an endless panorama of lake and glaciers and peaks stretches out from the top – it would be breathtaking, had the steep climb up a loose scree slope not already done the job.

Camping along the shore of Ala-Kul, watching as the stars appear in the clear night sky, remains the most peaceful experience of the trip; though a post-hike soak in the natural hot springs at the outpost of Altyn Arashan is a close second – and the attached guesthouses make a great alternative to a tent and sleeping bag if you’re looking for a little more comfort.

Hiking to Ala-Kul is possible as an extremely long day trip from the Altyn Arashan hot springs or as a two- to three-day hike between Altyn Arashan and the Karakol Valley and national park. For a more adventurous trip, it also lies halfway along the 7-day Ak Suu Transverse Trail from the ecotourism village of Jyrgalan to the Soviet-era hot springs resort at Jeti-Oguz.

Recommended by Stephen Lioy from Asia Hikes

3. Altyn Emel National Park, Kazakhstan – #3 Destination in Asia that most people don’t know

Kazakhstan in itself is already an off the beaten path destination in Asia, but as foreigners are discovering its incredible and diverse nature it receives more tourists every year. Altyn Emel still sees few visitors though, despite being one of the most stunning national parks around Almaty.

The remote location of Altyn Emel National Park means it remains a very off the beaten path destination. However, it is well worth the effort of getting there. A road trip through the park means you will see some of the most diverse nature of Kazakhstan.

Altyn Emel is most famous for its singing sand dunes of which there are only a few in this world. With the right weather and wind conditions, you can hear a mysterious humming sound. What most people don’t know is that this is only one of the many things to do here.

There are actually three routes to follow. The shortest one leads to the singing sand dunes, but the other two routes are much longer and even more spectacular, passing through steppes as well as desert, hills and colorful mountains. Among them, you will find ancient petroglyphs, Scythian burial mounds, mysterious stone steles and volcanic rock formations.

At first glance, the empty landscapes seem lifeless, but there is a huge variety of wildlife. It is in fact one of the best places in the world to see wild horses and donkeys. The headquarters of the park lies in Bashi village where you can stay in the park’s guesthouse.

Recommended by Ellis Veen from Backpack Adventures

4. Bukhara, Uzbekistan – #4 Destination in Asia that most people don’t know

The Silk Road city of Bukhara is a highlight of any trip to Uzbekistan. The city’s old town dates back more than 2,000 years. It is so brilliantly well-preserved that traveling here makes you feel transported back in time.

Soaring minarets, turquoise-domed mosques, and grand madrassas all contribute to the breathtaking tapestry of Bukhara. The old town comprises a maze-like network of narrow streets and alleyways. You can easily spend several days simply getting lost among these winding passageways, shopping for handicrafts at the artisanal stalls, and sipping mint tea at the various hidden tearooms.

The Kalyan Minaret is one of the most important sites to look out for in Bukhara. This 12th-century tower was one of the only things that Genghis Khan didn’t destroy when he invaded the city. It is so tall that you can see it from all areas of town! Kalyan Minaret is often referred to as “The Tower of Death”. Legend has it that traitors were brutally pushed to their death from the top floor.

Stop by Abdul Aziz Madrassah. This incomplete madrassah was supposed to be the most impressive Islamic school in Uzbekistan. Sadly, the country ran out of money as people stopped using the Silk Road trade route and passing through Uzbekistan. The school was never completed. This adds an air of mystery to visiting its courtyards and classrooms.

There are many excellent, affordable boutique hotels in Bukhara city center. Budget travelers and backpackers can stay at the Rumi hostel. This is a popular social guesthouse where beds cost as little as $4 a night. The Samani Bukhara is a great mid-range hotel choice. Rooms are brightly colored with vivid Uzbek designs. Prices start from $50 a night.

Recommended by Melissa Douglas from High Heels & a Backpack

5. Altai Mountains, Mongolia

Even by Mongolian standards, the Altai Mountains are considered extremely remote. Located in the rarely visited Bayan-Olgii province in the far western corner of the country, life among the predominantly Kazakh Muslims of the region continues much as it has for centuries.

Boasting fascinating cultural experiences, epic mountain scenery and a true end-of-the-world feel, the Altai region is the perfect choice for those who crave truly unique travel adventures.

The Three Best Things to Do in the Altai Mountains:

1. Mountain Trekking –  the day hike to Khuiten Uul Base Camp and Potanin Glacier is comparable to trekking in the Himalayas.

2. Horseback Riding – nothing is more Mongolian than traversing the foothills next to spectacular Khoton Lake on the back of a surly pony.

3. Eagle Hunting – whether you time your trip to coincide with the October hunting festivals or simply stop in for a visit with one of the traditional eagle trainers, these 20-lb winged killing machines are an impressive sight.

Olgii is the main city in the region despite a population of just 30,000. Central Tsambaragav (Green) Hotel provides excellent value with the faded grandeur of the former Soviet Union.

While it is possible to explore the area independently, the lack of infrastructure makes it more practical to take a Kazakh jeep tour. A standard 5-night itinerary will hit all the scenic highlights, offer 3 nights of camping and 2 nights in traditional gers (yurts), plus as much sour fermented mare’s milk as you could ever want.

Recommended by Dean and Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

6. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

As Central Asia gains in popularity among adventure-seeking travelers, fewer places can really be considered off the beaten track anymore. While there are still a few exceptions, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan can easily be placed at the top of the list.

The capital of a nation that has only recently opened its doors to tourism, very few people visit this country, let alone the city, each year. This alone makes the journey and effort to obtain a visa worth the work.

However, the fascination doesn’t stop there as Ashgabat actually offers a number of unique and interesting things to ponder. The most noteworthy of these being that the city is built entirely of white marble, mostly imported from Italy. The buildings that line the downtown strip have been constructed in various shapes and designs to reflect what can be found inside them. It’s an architecture unique to this country.

Just outside of downtown, on opposite sides of the city, is the UNESCO listed Parthian city of Nisa and one of very few Akhal Teke Stud farms. Both give some fascinating insight into the culture and history of the country.

Location is everything in Ashgabat, although finding a centrally located hotel that meets western standards can be a challenge. For that reason, we’d recommend staying at the more upscale, by Turkmenistan standards, Oguzkent Hotel.

Recommended by Lina & David Stock from Divergent Travelers

7. Engilchek, Kyrgystan

Kyrgyzstan is considered an off the beaten path destination. But even there, you can find some places that are more popular and can get busy in the high season.

However, there are still areas that see only a few travelers throughout the year. One of these places is an abandoned Soviet town Engilchek in the Sary Jaz Valley. Just a few kilometers from the Chinese border, the area is only accessible with special government permits.

This place in the north-east of Kyrgyzstan is truly mesmerizing. The Engilchek ghost town forgotten by the world is surrounded by the high mountain peaks of the Tien Shan, and inhabited only by a handful of local families.

During the Soviet Union, Sary Jaz was used as a mining area to extract several types of metals. After the collapse of the Union, the mines got closed and people moved out, leaving the abandoned building to crumble.

Now, the Sary-Jaz valley is a part of the national park Khan-Tengri mountain, to protect the rare flora and fauna.

The valley offers a great opportunity to explore Kyrgyz nature. You can hike in the nearby mountains, rising 7000 meters above the sea level, climb the Engilchek Glacier, visit abandoned mines, look for hidden ancient petroglyphs or swim in natural hot springs.

There are no hotels in the valley and the only way to stay there is with a local family. The local tourist company can organize this for you. It’s also a perfect way to contribute to the local community. This helps the families financially and allows them to practice their English skills.

Recommended by Aga from Worldering Around

8. Khorgo-Terkh National Park, Mongolia

Mongolia is known for the Gobi desert and for its vast grasslands, but did you know that it also has volcanoes?

Located in Arkhangai province about 630 kilometers west of Ulaanbaatar is the Khorgo-Terkh National Park, where you’ll find about a dozen extinct volcanoes. The park’s namesake, Khorgo Mountain, is the most interesting of them and can be climbed in about 15 to 20 minutes.

This is one of the best things to do in Mongolia and is a good chance to stretch your legs after the many hours that you’ll spend riding in a jeep to get here. Distances are huge in Mongolia, and the roads are in very poor condition.

From the rim, the view down into the crater and out across the rest of the national park is quite breathtaking. The soil inside the crater is a deep red color, and if you look closely, you can see a path that leads down inside the crater. Don’t attempt to take this path, as it’s not only very steep but also leads to a shamanic shrine so it’s most likely off-limits.

Looking out around you at the surrounding scenery, you’ll see that the ground is covered in black lava stone, with green trees growing out of it. There are about a dozen other extinct volcanoes in this area.

Further west, but also part of the national park, is a beautiful lake called Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur. Watching the sunset from one of the ger camps along the shore is the perfect way to end the day.

Recommended by Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

Off the beaten travel destinations in Western Asia

9. Haid al Jazil, Yemen

Haid al Jazil is a tiny village perched atop a rocky prominence that seems to rise impossibly from the floor of a date palm oasis in Central Yemen’s Wadi Daw’an.

The village dates back to the 16th century but has been left largely abandoned and in ruin. A handful of people still call Haid al Jazil home and maintain their traditional mudbrick homes. These structures are built in the traditional Hadhrami fashion, made of mudbrick which is highly susceptible to water erosion from the flash floods that happen in Wadi Daw’an.

The best time to view Haid al Jazil is just after sunrise as the golden light starts to creep over the eastern edge of Wadi Daw’an, slowly illuminating the homes perched atop the rocky projection. You’ll want to be situated on the eastern edge of Wadi Daw’an for the best views.

It is possible to trek down into Wadi Daw’an from the east edge of the canyon and into the date palm oasis that surrounds cliffs the village sits atop. This of course is best done with a local guide. As mentioned previously, catching the sunrise from the east side of Wadi Daw’an is a true highlight. Finally, if you can get permission from the families still living in Haid al Jazil, walking up to the village to explore the ancient homes is a must.

As visiting Yemen is quite a difficult task and not necessarily something you can rock up and do on your own, your guide/fixing team on the ground in Yemen will sort this out for you. There are homes and palaces in the Wadi Daw’an area to stay, but due to security, the volatility of the situation in Yemen and to prevent harm to the locals operating accommodations here these locations are not published online.

Recommended by Nicole from Adventures of Lil Nicki

10. Lalish, Iraq

Lalish is an ancient town and temple complex encapsulated in the mountains of  Kurdistan in Iraq and it’s one of the most unusual places in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

It’s the most sacred place for the believers of the Yazidi faith. Yazidism has less than 1 million followers all around the world. Ethnically, they are Kurdish predominantly living in Kurdistan in northern Iraq.

Yazidis are expected to make a 6-day pilgrimage to Lalish at least once in their lifetime. What is Mecca for Muslims, it’s Lalish for Yazidis.

Removing your shoes is the first thing you must do when you reach the border of Lalish.

As per tradition, everyone walks around there barefoot. The stone streets of the town are clean and smooth. This way, it’s fine to hang around shoeless. In the picture below, you can see local men sweeping the leaves and the dust in Lalish to make sure that their holy town always remains spotless.

Lalish itself is very small but I recommend you dedicate an entire day to this unique place to get to know the locals and observe their traditions and religious practices.

While strolling around the town full of small houses and temples, don’t be shy to watch or participate in their traditional activities. You’ll see that Yazidis have dozens of interesting customs such as hugging trees or kissing doorways.

Because there is no hotel or guesthouse in Lalish, stay in Duhok or Erbil, and take a day trip to this holy destination from one of these cities.

Recommended by Diana  from The Globetrotting Detective

11. Farasan Island, Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is probably the last country you would expect to be a beach destination. But after the country recently opened up for foreign tourists, so are the hidden beaches along the Red Sea coast now getting discovered.

Some of those beaches are located on the Farasan Island archipelago which has 84 corral islands out of which only three of them are being permanently inhabited.

You can find it only about 40 km offshore from the city of Jizan in the Asir region in the far southwestern part of Saudi Arabia.

Farasan Island is also a protected marine sanctuary that is home to 231 different species of fish and mammals including turtles, whale sharks, dolphins. So, if you don’t want to be lying around in the sun all day, snorkeling is an excellent option for discovering the water life of the island.

Other popular activities are birdwatching or you can go and look for a Farasan Gazelle which can only be found on these islands.

Farasan is still a very undeveloped place compared to other parts of the country, and there are currently only a few hotels there which are very basic, but things are improving continuously on the island.

Moreover, with things now getting pretty liberal in Saudi Arabia, at least compared to other Middle Eastern countries, women can now wear a bikini on the beach, but you will still have to dress up when walking around town.

Farasan Island can only be reached by one of the two daily ferries from Jizan, and the journey takes approximately one hour. Best of all, the ferry is completely free!

Recommended by Christan Lindgren from Unusual Traveler

12. Hormuz Island, Iran

Hormuz Island, which is also called the Rainbow Island or the Bloody Island is one of the most colorful and magical islands in the world. It’s probably the best-kept secret of the Persian Gulf. This mind-blowing island is located south of Iran, in the province of Hormozgan, 20 km from Qeshm Island.

Wandering around this tiny island feels like being on another planet or being part of a magical sci-fi fantasy. The most unique parts of the island are the Red Beach, the Rainbow Mountains and the Valley of Statue.

The Red Beach is called Red Beach because the soil of the island is red itself. The sand is red in the sea as well as it colors the water pink where it’s not that deep.

The Rainbow Mountain is the most colorful part of the island where you can see a plethora of shades and hues of red, yellow, ochre, orange, green, white, brown, beige, gold, grey, and turquoise colors. Get ready to get lost in the colors!

The Valley of Statue is a stunning place where enormous rocks have been sculpted into all kinds of weird shapes by the natural elements. The view from the rocks will take your breath away.

On this island, even the food will blow your mind. One of the most important ingredients of the local cuisine is the same red soil you see on the beach or in the mountains. They make seafood and flatbread with red soil.

The infrastructure is limited on the island. The best is to stay with a local family who can provide you accommodation as well. Many families host travelers and organize activities for them. There are a couple of hostels and only one hotel on Hormuz Island if you prefer to book online.

Recommended by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

13. Garmeh, Iran

In the middle of the Dasht-e Kavir desert in central Iran, there is a small, lush oasis called Garmeh.

Not many years ago, the place was completely unknown to the outside world. Until Lonely Planet found it. Now, only a few of the few tourists that go to Iran find their way to the desert oasis as it is a bit difficult to get to. You will have to take a bus to a deserted roundabout in Khur, and then continue by taxi the last 30 minutes to the village.

There is one place to stay, the Ateshooni Guesthouse. You can easily stay two or three days in Garmeh if you include a desert tour. The guesthouse organizes day trips to the desert as well as overnight trips. It is quite a unique salt desert with salt lakes and salt rivers. You will get food and drinks served over a fire in the desert. Food and drinks are also included in the guesthouse as there are no restaurants around.

Other than the desert, you can easily spend half a day or a day venturing through date palms and old clay ruins. Go check out the natural spring which gives freshwater to the locals and go for a hike in the mountain overlooking the oasis.

Recommended by Linn Haglund from Brainy Backpackers

14. Jebel Jais, United Arab Emirates

I lived in Dubai for two years, and if you asked me for my absolute best experience in the United Arab Emirates, I would say it would be driving up Jebel Jais. Although hundreds of thousands of tourists head to Dubai and Abu Dhabi every year, not many of them know that the UAE actually boasts a mini-mountain range with high peaks, little mountain villages, and even mountain goats!

Jebel Jais is the highest mountain in the United Arab Emirates and forms the border between the UAE and Oman. You will probably have heard about Jebel Jais in passing when reading about the World’s Longest Zipline – yes, that’s at the top of Jebel Jais!

Jebel Jais is located in Ras Al Khaimah, a coastal emirate and one of the more down-to-earth cities in the UAE. The mountain range is located about an hour’s drive out of the city, yet the drive itself is breathtaking. You go from arid desert to looming mountains and panoramic views. On the mountain itself, there are 5 or 6 panoramic viewpoints you can stop and picnic at. At the top, you will find a little cafeteria and a small pizza truck.

I would say that, if you are tired of the fakeness and luxury of Dubai, you need to head out to Ras al Khaimah. This emirate is a breath of fresh air as it is cheap, the people are nice and there are loads of amazing resorts at just a fraction of the price you would pay in Dubai. I can personally recommend The Cove Rotana is a great resort for those who love amazing pools!

Recommended by Lieze Neven from Glitter Rebel

Off-the-beaten travel destinations in South Asia

15. Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan

If you’re looking for stunning places sans tourists, look no further than Mazar-i-Sharif, in northern Afghanistan. Although the city itself is nothing fancy, it’s home to one of the most beautiful buildings in Central Asia… and that’s saying something.

Mazar is close to the Uzbek border at Termez, and is relatively safe to visit (for Afghanistan standards, that is). For obvious reasons, it doesn’t see many foreign tourists. If you do visit, make sure you plan your trip carefully.

When you visit Mazar, you’ll be blown away (no pun intended) by the sheer magnificence of the Blue Mosque, sometimes referred to as the Shrine of Ali. Sitting at the center of town, the mosque was built in the 15th century, and its intricate tile work has been restored several times since then. Try to visit it at several different times of daylighting makes all the difference.

Of course, there’s more to Mazar than just the Blue Mosque. Balkh, once the ancient capital of the Bactrian Kingdom, is close enough for a day trip (safety permitting). There you can visit the remains of the Green Mosque, dating back to the Timurid era, and climb the old city walls for incredible views.

When staying in Mazar, make sure to find a safe place that takes foreigners. Barg-e-Sabz Guesthouse is one option.

Afghanistan might not seem like an obvious place to visit, and is certainly not for everyone. But if you think you’re well prepared, don’t leave Mazar-i-Sharif off of your itinerary.

Recommended by Alex from Lost with Purpose

16. Hunza Valley in Pakistan

The Hunza Valley is probably the most stunning place along the famous Karakoram Highway connecting Islamabad to Kashgar, in China’s Xinjiang Autonomous Region. It’s a real jewel in the crown of Pakistan’s Northern Areas, tucked under the belly of central Asia, and studded with amazing snow-capped giants that are over 6000-meters-high.

Any visit to the Hunza Valley isn’t complete without a stop in charming Karimabad, an offbeat place, yes, but possibly the most tourist-friendly village in Pakistan these days. The old strip tucked between the two UNESCO-inscribed forts of Baltit and Altit is filled with guesthouses, restaurants, pizza places and cafes — don’t miss Cafe de Hunza, with its perfect brews, fastest wi-fi in the North, and traditional walnut cakes, a legend around these parts. At sunset, ride up to the Eagle’s Nest viewpoint to soak amazing views over a bowl of green valley encapsulated within a barrage of ash-grey peaks, among which giant Rakaposhi is a sight to behold.

Another hour north is the Hussaini Suspension Bridge, declared as “the most dangerous bridge in the world”, and the village of Gulkhin, just 10 minutes drive away from the iconic view of the Passu Cones — huge mountains that look like a dragon’s fangs emerging from the side of the Karakoram highway.

Stay at Rehman Backpackers, a simple and yet charming homestay with well-appointed en-suite rooms and plenty of nearby places to explore — the Borit Lake and Passu glacier, beside the famous Passu Cones, and the ancient village of Ganesh, with traditional Hunza architecture still intact. With such a wealth of amazing sights, it’s strange that the Hunza Valley still sees so few international visitors.

Recommended by Marco Ferrarese of Monkey Rock World

Picture by Kit Yeng Chan

17. Bumthang, Bhutan

Bumthang is a beautiful town located in the northeastern region in Bhutan, one of the smallest countries in Asia. This remote town, situated on the hilly area, is known for its surrounding gorgeous Himalayan mountains, the valley dotted with lush green fields along the river, the rugged countryside homes and lovely ancient monasteries.

Bhutan itself is an off-the-beat destination to most of the travelers around the world, partly due to its expensive daily entry fees for travelers and also because of its remote location. But if you are planning a trip to this beautiful country, don’t skip Bumthang. Most travelers cover the west, leaving Bumthang receiving very few travelers.

It is not one of the towns with many things to do to check off your list, although there are plenty of attractions. Visit the famous ancient monasteries – The Kurje Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang and The Jambay Lhakhang. To enjoy stunning views of the panorama of the Himalayas, visit Jakar Dzong.

Bumthang is home to Red Panda Brew Station, which is a very famous lager beer in the country. Check out their brewery where you can get a guided tour. Bumthang is one of the best places to go hiking. There are two conservation centres – Wangchuck Centennial Park in the north, and the Thrumshingla National Park in the south, which are home to rare Himalayan wildlife. Plan a trip to these parks if you are here during the spring or fall.

There are plenty of guesthouses in the city centre, which you can book by walking in. These are not available for online booking.

Recommended by Reshma Narasing, The Solo Globetrotter

Off the beaten travel destinations in East Asia

18. Rainbow Mountains, China

By now you’ve probably heard about the rainbow mountain in Peru, which to be honest is a bit of a tourist trap and has become completely overrun with tourists.

What you probably haven’t heard of, though, is the spectacular rainbow mountain range of China. Whereas Peru has just one multi-colored mountain, China has 500 square kilometers of them! They are located in the remote western province of Gansu, just outside the small city of Zhangye.

Until 2011, virtually no one except the local residents of the area knew that this incredible natural landscape was here. Since then, the government has turned it into a geological park and built tourist infrastructure. And while it does now attract domestic tourists, you are unlikely to see more than a handful of foreigners there.

While hiking in the park is prohibited in order to protect the fragile mountains, shuttle buses will take you to four different observation decks, all of which offer amazing views.

The Silk Road Travelers Hostel in Zhangye is a good place to base yourself. Staff speaks English, and they offer private rooms as well as dormitories. They can also arrange a shared taxi to the rainbow mountains, which will help bring the cost down. Zhangye is connected by train to Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu, and to many other destinations in China.

Recommended by Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

19. Kamikochi, Japan

Kamikochi is a beautiful place in Japan. The valley lies 1500 meters above sea level and is surrounded by impressive mountains. This beautiful valley is mainly popular with Japanese tourists but remains very much off the beaten track for international visitors to Japan.

The fact that it requires some effort to Kamikochi also contributes to this. Kamikochi is not accessible by car, only by bus. Also, the valley is only ‘open’ for six months a year, from mid-April until mid-November. During winter large amounts of snow make Kamikochi inaccessible and everything closes down.

Things to do in Kamikochi:

1. Walk across the Kappa Bridge (Kappabashi): this bridge is probably the most photographed part of Kamikochi and rightly so. The sight of this suspension bridge across the blue glacial waters and tall mountains in the backdrop paints a very pretty picture indeed.

2. Hike to the top of Mount Yakedake: Kamikochi is a great place for hiking and one of the best trails is the Mount Yakedake hike. This 5-hour trail leads to the 2455 meter high top of Mount Yakedake, an active volcano. Please note this is a strenuous trail that required a good level of fitness. Also, before heading out to Mount Yakedake, check the condition of the trail at the Kamikochi Visitor Center.

3. Admire the Taisho Pond: this pretty pond formed after an eruption of Mount Yakedake and offers beautiful mirror views (on a clear and windless day that is) of the surrounding mountains. It’s an easy 1-hour walk (one-way) from the Kappa Bridg
As for where to stay, if you’re on a budget, I highly recommend the Konashi-daira campsite. We stayed here for 3 nights and has a wonderful experience. You can either rent a tent (and other equipment) or bring your own.

Recommended by Lotte Eschbach from Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog

20. Hiking in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is known for shopping, business, and banking but it’s one of the best regions in the world for day-hikes. What makes Hong Kong unique for hiking is the views from the forested mountains that overlook the high-rises in the busy city.

There aren’t many places in the world where you can sit amongst the trees and overlook the busy metropolis below. As well as the hikes near the city, there are also some fantastic hikes in the New Territories, which tour waterfalls, coastal cliffs and jungles. Two of the premier hikes in Hong Kong are detailed below.

Kowloon Peak hike takes you on a journey to the Kowloon Peak viewpoint but also leads you to one of the most well-known hiking photography spots in Hong Kong, which is Suicide Cliff. The total route is under 7-kilometers to see both viewpoints and is recommended for sunset. It’s not a hike for beginners but is relatively safe for the average hiker!

Both of the ledges at Suicide Cliff are among the best photo spots in all of Hong Kong with huge drops and an epic background of Kowloon behind, which makes it a great hike for sunset.

The Lion Rock hike in Hong Kong is one of the most popular trails in the region with an epic viewpoint over Kowloon all the way to Hong Kong Central. The lion-head shaped rock at the summit is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the city from the forest. It’s the kind of rock formation that you seem to spot out no matter where you are in Hong Kong but it isn’t until you are up there that you can enjoy the incredible view from the head of the Lion.

Best Value Hotel: Metropark Hotel Causeway Bay – This 4-star hotel in Hong Kong Central is just $73 and looks like a luxury resort worth 4-times that amount.

Recommended by Jackson Groves from The Journey Era

21. Zamani Island, Japan

Zamami Island is located in Okinawa, the southern prefecture in Japan. The Island is part of the Kerama Islands, one of Japan’s national parks. Taking a ferry ride for roughly an hour from the mainland, you will arrive at Zamami Island.

Among the Okinawan islands, Zamami Island might not be the most famous, but it has gorgeous views and beautiful ocean. People can enjoy all kinds of water sports and activities here. Zamami Island provides unique tours to watch humpback whales migrate during winter.

One of the most special things to do here is to swim with the sea turtles. Just meters away from Ama beach on Zamami Island, people can enjoy snorkelling and observing sea turtles in their natural habitat.

On the other side of the island, with even fewer visitors, you can find Ino Beach. It is one of the most peaceful and tranquil beaches, with the most beautiful sand and water. Here, people can truly sit back and relax while enjoying the sound of the waves.

The best way to explore the island is by renting a bicycle and exploring all the lookout points from one end of the island to another. Make sure to get the electric bicycle because of the countless uphills and downhills you will come across.

A great place to stay on the island is Zamamia International Guest House. Here, people will be able to meet people from all over the world. The guest house provides bunk beds and private room options for guests to choose from.

Recommended by Venese Lau from Flip Japan Travel Guide

Off the beaten travel destinations in Southeast Asia

22. Atauro Island, East Timor

East Timor (Timor-Leste) may not immediately hit you as “off the beaten track” itself, especially due to its international airport in Dili, and the hordes of Australian and Indonesian tourists it attracts for beaches, sunshine, diving and a peaceful vibe.

However, when you are backpacking through East Timor, there is a way to truly escape the tourist trail – become at tourist at Atauro Island. Hop on the rocky, windy boat that takes you from Dili to this eco-friendly island, a paradise on Atauro.

Atauro Island is not independent at all – it is an integral part of East Timor. However, it has no airport and is not bunged with tourists. The island has four main provinces and many scattered villages. The entire population is under 10,000. There are roads around the island (bicycle and tuk tuk are best), the religion is mostly Protestant (despite mainland East Timor being mostly Catholic) and there are four main dialects (Rahesuk, Resuk, Raklungu, and Dadu’a).

Best Three Things To Do on Atauro Island?

1. Deep-sea diving – many divers love the clear blue, pristine waters in and around Atauro Island. Diving adventures can be booked very easily, but mostly from companies in Dili the capital.

2. Stay in an Eco Resort – spend your money on an island that needs and deserves it by being eco-friendly at the same time. On arrival into Vila by boat, you can walk to Barry’s Place – a superb eco-resort. Expect good locally barbecued food, cold beers and warm hospitality all while protecting the environment and making use of solar power.

3. Get lost in villages – village life is superb. Locals are incredibly friendly here, you can have tea and lunch with them and play football with the kids in the afternoon, many are keen to learn English too.

Recommended by Jonny Blair from Don’t Stop Living

23. Sukamade Beach, Indonesia

Sukamade Beach in Indonesia, is undoubtedly one of the most stunning and off-the-beaten travel destinations across Asia.

While tourists flock in droves to the beaches and villas of tropical Bali, Sukamade Beach on the island of Java remains almost eerily empty. A place to fulfill your most indulgent wild-nature fantasies, and to get up-close and personal with nesting sea turtles.

Sukamade Beach is found 97 km south of Banyuwangi city on Java with the Meru Netiri National Park. This vast, wild beach backed by verdant tropical forests has been the focus of turtle research and conservation since 1972. For adventurous travelers who can find a way here, the temptation is two-fold – the breathtaking beauty of nature, and the opportunity to spot hundreds of turtles laying eggs at night under the moonlight.

Because Sukamade Beach is located far from even the small town of Java, it can be quite tricky to get here and will require some 4×4 off-road driving. It is recommended to hire a driver and a guide. The trip can take over 3 hours, and you will need their help to organize guest house accommodation (which is basic at best) and to visit the conservation facility.

In addition to exploring watching turtles lay eggs at night, you can arrange a boat trip to one of the surrounding secluded beaches only accessible by water, explore the jungle further, or participate in the release of baby turtles back into the sea. The charm of Sukamade is its disconnect from the modern world, and its raw nature – so while there might not be many ‘must-do’ attractions, simply experiencing this off-the-beaten travel destination is reason alone to visit.

Recommended by Jordan Adkins from Inspired by Maps

24. Akha village in Luang Namtha, Laos

When people think of trekking in South East Asia, Thailand and Vietnam invariably spring to mind. Those looking for a more off-the-beaten-track trekking experience, however, should consider heading to Luang Namtha in Northern Laos.

Luang Namtha is Laos’ number one trekking destination and with good reason: the Nam Ha National Protected Area covers an expanse of 2224 square kilometers and is inhabited by a wide range of ethnic groups as well as interesting flora and fauna.

2-3 day guided treks to visit and stay in the villages of the Akha people (famed for their ornate headdresses and complex religious beliefs that combine animism and ancestor worship) are a fantastic way to gain a deeper understanding of Laos’ unique cultural diversity and see communities preserving their ancient beliefs and practices. Most trekking companies in Luang Namtha also operate an eco-tourism model where a chunk of the trekking fee goes back into the villages.

Whilst hill tribe trekking is the main attraction here, those who want to avoid guided tours completely can hire a bicycle or scooter and follow the Luang Namtha Valley Route, which enables travellers to visit Hmong, Khmu and Lanten tribes by themselves. A visit to the morning market is also highly recommended as is eating in one of the restaurants offering dishes from different ethnic minorities that are unique to Northern Laos.

All this activity can be tiring, so for a decent night’s sleep stay at the spotless and comfortable Zuela Guesthouse, which has rooms for any budget.

Recommended by Sasha Kasthuriarachchi from Mog and Dog Travels

25. Ly Son Island, Vietnam

Ly Son Island, located in Central Vietnam, is not on the typical Vietnam itinerary. It’s a small island, a former volcano, and known for growing garlic and onions in the volcanic soil and sand. Tourism hasn’t boomed on the island, so you’ll see a handful of foreign tourists.

Most visitors come here to relax for a few days and to see the gorgeous landscapes. There are two places to relax on the beaches and go snorkeling – Cau Cave and An Binh Island. Cau Cave is a small beach area where you can rent lounge chairs and sit inside a huge cave. An Binh is an island that is 10-minutes away by boat and has clean beaches and waters.

If you love to see views of the oceans, rent a motorbike from your guesthouse and head to Mount Thoi Loi and Gieng Tien Mountain. Plan your visit so that you can also see the sunset from either of these spots.

One of the best parts about visiting Ly Son Island is to eat fresh seafood. Stop by one of the seafood restaurants along the coast. Choose the daily catch of the day and have it cooked in any way you’d like.

As for where to stay, Binh Yen Motel next to the docks is a great choice.

Recommended by Jackie Szeto & Justin Huynh from Life of Doing

26. Togian Island, Indonesia

The country Indonesia is made up of more than 17 000 islands, surrounded by spectacular marine life and including some unknown little paradise islands. The Togian Islands, an archipelago of 56  islands in the middle of the Gulf of Tomini off the coast of Sulawesi are some of the most remote off the beaten track islands in Indonesia. With crystal clear water, powder-white beaches and tropical jungles, the Togian Islands truly are a hidden paradise.

To reach the Togians is not easy, traveling by a combination of ferries and speed boat taxis for two days. The island Kadidiri is one of the smallest islands. This is a great choice to visit. There are some dive centers and nice little hotels, here you can relax in a hammock, look for wildlife in the jungle or dive on the pristine coral reefs. Black Marlin is a great choice to stay here. It has accommodation, a restaurant and a dive center. Scuba diving on untouched reefs covered in spectacular marine life is the main reason why tourists come here.

There are some unreal attractions not to miss and still hidden from mass tourism when visiting the Togian islands. Diving on the wreck of a B24 Bomber plane that crash-landed during WWII now covered in marine life is a unique dive. Visiting the Bajo settlement, Pulao Papan, is an amazing cultural experience, to see how these ocean-dwelling “sea gypsies” of Malaysia and Indonesia have been living a nomadic lifestyle on the water for centuries. Swimming in a jellyfish lake where these creatures have lost their poisonous sting during millions of years of evolution is a fantastic experience with a good chance that you will be here on your own.

We recommend Kadidiri Paradise as a great accommodation option.

Recommended by Campbell and Alya from Stingy Nomads

27. Caramon Islands, Philippines

The quiet and lesser-known region of Bicol in the Philippines, is home to bustling cities, fuming volcanos and tropical islands. The most beautiful being the Caramoan Islands. These deserted islands are covered in jagged limestone rocks, and pristine beaches surrounded by crystal blue waters. So it’s no wonder that the best thing to do in the Caramoan peninsula is to go island hopping.

You can hire an outrigger and go in search of hidden coves, secret beaches, and quiet snorkelling spots, and unlike the rest of the Philippines, it’s quite likely you won’t come across any other humans. This is one of the reasons why these remote islands were used to film the hit US TV show, Survivor.

The best place to stay on the Caramoan Islands is Tugawe Cove, where you can use their free watersport equipment to explore the surrounding areas and hike up to the nearby lighthouse to enjoy a picnic and the panoramic views.

The reason the Caramoan islands are so untouched, is because of the journey from Manila. It involves a one hour flight to Legazpi City then a three-hour drive to the port, followed by two hours on a bumpy speed boat, however, the inaccessibility makes sure the beaches remain beautiful and untouched.

Recommended by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

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