travelling southeast asia in september

• 2 Weeks for Couple
• 2 Weeks for Family
• Thailand Lantern Festival
• Indonesia(Bali)
• South Korea
• China (HK, Taiwan)
• Itinerary Ideas
• Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
• Thailand Travel Reviews
• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
• Myanmar Travel Reviews
• China Travel Reviews

The 6 Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia in September 2024

In September, temperatures in Southeast Asia remain hot, reaching over 30°C (86°F).

Monsoons persist in some countries, such as Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, with intense downpours typically concentrated in the late hours of the day. In contrast, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore beckon travelers with their dry seasons.

If you prefer to minimize the impact of rain on your travels, consider visiting Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Laos.

1. Indonesia: Favorable Weather and Best Beach Destination

• Recommended stay: 1 to 2 weeks

September is the best time to explore Indonesia. The weather in renowned travel destinations, such as Bali and Java, stays dry, with little to no rainfall. Their temperatures are consistently warm.

As the summer break winds down in early September, there's a clear drop in crowds . But prices still hold on to that peak season feel.

Generally speaking, Indonesia won't disappoint you wherever you go in September. Bali and Java are highly recommended as they showcase the best of Indonesia.

Top things to do in Indonesia in September:

• Trek up the volcanoes, discover rice terraces, and relax on the photogenic beaches in Bali.
• Soak up the atmosphere in the spiritual Borobudur (the largest Buddhist temple in the world) and taste civet coffee in Java.
• Take a scuba diving trip to the Gili Islands.
• Hike and meet the famous Komodo dragons on Komodo Island.
• Visit the seaweed farms of Nusa Lembongan.

Read more about planning a couple's trip to Southeast Asia >>>

2. Malaysia: Partly Sunny and an Adventurer's Paradise

• Recommended stay: 1 to 3 weeks

In September, the rainfall in Malaysia gradually increases towards October. But you could still expect relatively dry weather on the east coast (Tioman Island and the Perhentian Islands) and Borneo.

For the other regions, the west coast (Langkawi and Penang) receives more frequent afternoon downpours (one every 2 days) while Kuala Lumpur and the central highlands experience moderate rainfall.

Therefore, if you visit Malaysia in September, you're advised to visit the eastern coast for beach activities, Borneo for wildlife, and Kuala Lumpur for cultural riches.

Top things to do in Malaysia in September:

• Unwind by the scenic coastline or embark on a diving escapade at Tioman Island or the Perhentian Islands.
• Encounter orangutans in the lush rainforests and go on a riverboat safari in Borneo.
• Sample diverse Asian foods during our foodie tours in Kuala Lumpur: Chinese foods, Indian foods, Indonesian foods, and halal foods.
• Trek to find the rare Rafflesia flower and see verdant tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands.

read more about how to plan your first Southeast Asia trip >>>

3. Singapore: Gateway to Asia for First-Timers

• Recommended stay: 4 to 5 days

Singapore is highly modern, boasting futuristic buildings and top-notch services. Blending Asian cultures, a brief stopover in Singapore could provide you with a glimpse into the diverse aspects of Asia for your first visit.

Although Singapore is generally hot and humid throughout the year, September falls within a period of only moderate rainfall.

Top things to do in Singapore in September:

• Attend the Singapore Grand Prix (September 20–22, 2024): a thrilling nighttime Formula 1 race along with award-winning bands and 5-star cuisine.
• Appreciate the architectural masterpieces in Marina Bay Sands.
• Take a cable car ride to gain an insight into the city, harbor, and Sentosa from above.
• Experience the Mid-Autumn Festival in Chinatown.

Get expert tips for planning your Singapore and Bali or Singapore and Thailand trips>>>

4. Myanmar: Partly Dry and Culture-Oriented

If you want to get a touch of Buddhism in a less-disturbed atmosphere, then visit Myanmar.

In September, Myanmar's rainy season eases up, bringing cooler and less humid weather.

Although beaches stay closed due to rain, other parts of the country see improved conditions. The central plains near Mandalay become the hottest and driest, making it a great time to visit Mandalay and Bagan.

Top things to do in Myanmar in September:

• Catch the mesmerizing sunsets from the wooden-built U Bein Bridge in Mandalay.
• Marvel at the sunrise and sunset over the plains of Bagan.
• Take a boat trip to Inle Lake for its picture-perfect stilt villages.

Read more about the Top 10 Kid-Friendly Destinations in Southeast Asia >>>

5. Vietnam: Drier in Parts with Shoulder-Season Benefits

Vietnam epitomizes rustic life in Southeast Asia, while providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking through mountainous landscapes, exploring karst caves, or cycling along coastal areas.

In September, the rainfall focus in Vietnam shifts from the northern and southern regions to the central part. Throughout the country, the northern highlands and central region receive less precipitation, making them better destinations for travel during September.

September, being the shoulder season, allows you to savor the scenery with fewer tourists around and at a more budget-friendly price.

Top things to do in Vietnam in September:

• If time allows, see the parades, fireworks, and boat races in Hanoi on September 2nd (Vietnam National Day).
• Hike through the golden rice paddies and see the ethnic hill tribes in Sapa.
• Enjoy outdoor adventures amid the karst landscape in rustic Ninh Binh.
• Experience Vietnam's Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An.
• Take an in-depth exploration of the Mekong River on a week-long cruise.

Further reading: how to plan your first Vietnam trip >>>

6. Laos: Less Rainfall and More Rustic

• Recommended stay: 4 days

In September, Laos has some rain but less compared to other countries in their rainy seasons, especially in Luang Prabang.

As the month goes on, wet days decrease, making it perfect to explore the countryside and see waterfalls at their best.

Top things to do in Laos in September:

• Participate in an almsgiving ceremony and explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed relics in Luang Prabang.
• Uncover the secrets of the Plain of Jars.
• Take a boat cruise on the Mekong River.
• Spot the pink dolphins in the Irrawaddy River.
• Escape the rain with indoor activities, such as a cooking class and a Laotian massage.

Unveil the handpicked itineraries for 10 days , 12 days ,  2 weeks or 3 weeks in Southeast Asia>>>

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Southeast Asia

Learn about the weather in Southeast Asia for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Our Differences
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

September in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Where to Go in September for the Best Weather

lingqi xie / Getty Images

Asia is a massive continent and in September, the weather varies depending on how far north or south you go. With monsoon season raging in Southeast Asia, cooler weather approaching in East Asia, and typhoons posing a threat to coastal regions from Japan to India, you're looking at many different kinds of weather conditions across the continent in September. At the same time, September is a great month to travel in Asia because the majority of tourist crowds will be heading home post-summer. This time of year also sees the return of many traditional events and festivals throughout Asia that you could make a special trip for.

Typhoon Season in the Pacific

August and September are more often than not the peak months for typhoons in the Pacific. Although they go by a different name, typhoons are basically hurricanes—the only difference being that hurricanes refer to Atlantic storms while typhoons refer to Pacific ones. These tropical storms have the potential to cause heavy rain and flooding. Some of the countries that are often hit the hardest and most frequently by typhoons include China, the Philippines, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Bangladesh. Before your trip, keep your eye on weather forecasts for your destination and use the National Hurricane Center website as a resource.

Asia Weather in September

September is a transitional month that begins with the end of summer and ends with the beginning of fall , so be sure to take the exact dates of your trip into consideration when researching weather patterns. All the same, the weather can be unpredictable and the climate varies drastically depending on, not just the country, but also the region you're visiting.

The amount of rainfall and average high and low temperatures will vary drastically. While Southeast Asia is dealing with monsoon season and cities like Bangkok are experiencing an average of 12.3 inches (312 millimeters) of rain over the month, China is beginning to cool down and dry out , especially in northern cities like Beijing where the average temperatures range between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (15 and 26 degrees Celsius).

Traveling in Southeast Asia during the monsoon or "green" season, as it's sometimes optimistically called, has some advantages, such as smaller crowds, discounts for accommodation, cooler weather, the availability of seasonal fruit, and better air quality since the rain clears out some of the dust and pollution.

What to Pack

If you're traveling in an East Asian country like China, South Korea, or Japan, pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, as nighttime temperatures can drop drastically at this time of year. However, summer does have a habit of lingering around in September, so you'll want to make sure you have a few short-sleeved shirts, shorts, and other breezy lightweight clothing as well.

No matter where you go in Asia, but especially if you'll be traveling to Southeast Asia, pack the best raincoat you can find, a poncho, an umbrella, and waterproof shoes. When monsoon season is in full-swing like it is in September, you'll need all the help you can get staying dry. You may also want to learn some travel hacks which can show you cheap ways to waterproof your belongings, such as using plastic bags to keep your most important documents safe from any unexpected downpours.

Many Asian holidays and festivals are based on a lunisolar calendar, so dates change annually and may take place in September one year and in October in another. In 2020, many of these events, festivals, and gatherings may be canceled so be sure to check the websites of the official organizers for the latest updates.

• Nine Emperor Gods Festival Festival : Usually taking place in September or October, this Taoist celebration draws a big crowd to Phuket, Thailand, to see the devotees who voluntarily pierce their bodies in surprising ways. Much like the pierced devotees of Thaipusam , they claim to feel little pain. This gathering of ritual mutilation is sometimes called the Annual Vegetarian Festival because all the food served during the event happens to be made without animal products.
• Full Moon Party : Check the calendar before your trip because this monthly beach party is a legend in Thailand. Tens of thousands of travelers are drawn to Haad Rin on Koh Phangan every month to celebrate the full moon with body paint, dancing, and buckets of alcohol.
• Chinese Moon Festival : The Mid-Autumn Festival is a joyous time of celebrating the full harvest moon with family and loved ones while giving thanks. Tasty-but-heavy mooncakes are swapped and eaten during reunions. It typically takes place in late September and early October.
• Malaysia Day : Unlike Malaysia's Independence Day that celebrates independence from the British, Malaysia Day celebrates the coming together of Malaysia, Sarawak, Sabah, and Singapore to form the Malaysian Federation. The patriotic event is always observed on September 16.
• National Day in China : For this government holiday, people will begin preparations during the last week of September to get in place for flag-waving, outdoor performances, military parades, and fireworks on October 1. At this time of year, millions of people travel around China to reunite with loved ones and enjoy the holiday.

September Travel Tips

• Destinations in Asia that experience some of the best weather in September include Bali, Northern Sri Lanka, Singapore, Northern China, Hong Kong, and Borneo
• Destinations in Asia that experience some of the worst weather in September include Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand.
• If you go to  Sri Lanka , this island country experiences two distinct monsoon seasons , which means you can escape the monsoons by just taking a bus to the northern region of Jafna. The eastern coast of Sri Lanka is also driest in September, while the popular beaches in the south such as Unawatuna see a lot of rainy days.
• Some islands in Thailand such as Koh Lanta are practically closed down during the month of September because of seasonal storms. Many restaurants and hotels shut down to do seasonal maintenance, which means the beaches may not be clean and there will be fewer options for accommodation.
• Even if you think you won't mind the rain, some outdoor activities such as snorkeling, trekking, or island hopping become more difficult, or even impossible, during heavy monsoon rain.

October in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

December in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

February in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Traveling to Asia in November

The Best Time to Visit the Maldives

May in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

January in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Winter in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Traveling During the Monsoon Season in Asia

Traveling in Southeast Asia's Monsoon Season

Fall in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

March in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

October in Europe: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

July in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

August in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The Best Time to Visit Japan

20 Best Places To Visit In Asia In September (2024)

Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by Nicole

September is a great time to visit many places in Asia. The busy summer season has passed and the blistering hot weather found in most Asian destinations has started to cool. So where should you go for a September vacation in Asia? Here are 20 best places to visit in Asia in September that include beautiful tropical beaches, exciting big and small cities, breathtaking mountains and countrysides, and charming small towns.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Best September Holidays In Asia

Here are some of the best destinations in Asia for a September getaway. I include cities, towns, natural wonders, and beaches all over Asia.

I supply the best things to do in each destination, as well as how best to get there. In addition, I let you know the expected weather so you can pack properly and arrive prepared.

If there is a fantastic hotel or other  accommodation  available for this September trip in Asia, it will be included, as well as any remarkable special annual events or festivals.

South Korea, Seoul

Seoul is the capital city of South Korea and represents a unique combination of modernism blended seamlessly with culture and family traditions. As the largest city in all of Korea, Seoul can be an assault on the senses but in between the chaos, there is a structured way of living that can only be felt once you’ve experienced it for yourself. 

Begin your trip with an evening visit to Hongdae, Seoul’s liveliest neighbourhood famous for its nightlife and bright lights. 

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village are all within walking distance from one another and represent the best cultural highlights in the centre of Seoul.

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Changdeokgung Palace is set in an enormous public garden and a visual delight. Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential neighborhood with many restored traditional Korean houses, called hanok. 

Gwangjang market is nearby and is the best place to sample some traditional, Korean street food – Gohyang Kalguksu (Knife-cut noodles) are perhaps the most popular dish at the market. 

Of course, no visit to Seoul is complete without a trip to the infamous Demilitarised Zone between North Korea and South Korea. You are only permitted to visit this site through an organised tour and you must have your passport on you at all times. You will get the chance to look through a telescope from the Dora Observatory and catch a brief glimpse of North Koreans tending their farms and driving around on old mopeds. 

Another reason to visit Seoul in September is that it’s the month when the annual Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival takes place. The event features a number of folk performances, musicals and family concerts, and in true Korean style, an abundance of colour! 

With a combination of fascinating culture, a delicious food scene and an unprecedented skyline, Seoul is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Asia in September.

September marks the start of fall in South Korea and this means temperatures lower to an average of between 64°F to 77°F during the day. You can expect around 8 days with some rain and only 6 days with humidity.

Best Way To Reach Destination

Getting to Seoul is relatively straightforward, thanks largely in part to Seoul Incheon Airport. It is useful to know  how to buy a SIM Card in Seoul Incheon Airport  as throughout Seoul you will need to make use of translation and navigation apps – Google Maps famously doesn’t work in South Korea.

From the airport, the City Centre is only an hour away and can be reached via the high-speed KTX train, spacious K-limousine bus or a simple private taxi. 

Best Place To Stay

Ben from Ticket 4 Two Please says, “The best area of the city to base yourself during your stay is Myeongdong. It is the city’s shopping centre and features a nightly street food market.

Hotel28 Myeongdong , a short walk from Myeongdong Station (Line 4), is a wonderful boutique hotel in the centre of the district and best of all, the K-limousine shuttle bus from Seoul Incheon Airport has a stop directly outside the hotel.”

Siargao, Philippines

Siargao Island, nestled in the Philippines near Surigao, is one of Southeast Asia’s premier destinations for both surfers and travelers. 

Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao boasts world-class waves that attract surf enthusiasts from across the globe. The island offers a lots of surf camps and experienced instructors, making it an ideal spot for both seasoned surfers and and beginner surfers in Siargao.

September is the best time to visit Siargao when Siargao takes center stage with the Siargao National Surfing Cup at Cloud 9. This event has a QS3000 rating and draws the world’s top surfers. In addition, September is shoulder season between the rainy and dry months so there are great hotel deals.

This period also coincides with the island’s largest surfing swell. For advanced surfers seeking the thrill of challenging waves, this is the best time to go.

Beyond surfing, Siargao offers a tri-islands tour to Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands, which is one of the top experiences.

From Siarga, you can also visit Sohoton Cove, one of the only places in the world where you can swim with stingless jellyfish. 

Tours in Siargao are celebrated at the end with a Philippino “Boodle Fight” buffet lunch, where rice, noodles, fruit, and fresh fish are shaped into pictures and words before being enjoyed by hungry visitors. 

Average highs in September is 88°F. Rainfall is 4.9 inches over 15 days with lots of humidity.

Siargao is easy to get to, with short daily direct flights from Manila and Cebu to Siargao’s Del Carmen IAO airport. Alternatively, budget-conscious travelers can embark on an overnight ferry from Cebu to Surigao, followed by a brief local ferry to reach the island.

Katie from  KatieCafTravel.com  says, “One of the best hotels in Siargao is the Surfing Temple , a boutique hotel popular among surfers.

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, there’s Nay Palad Hideaway , a 5-star beach-front hotel.”

Gobi Desert, Mongolia

There are few places that let you experience the full scale of this planet as well as the Gobi Desert. Characterized by endless wide plains, this vast arid land shared by Mongolia and China is one of the largest deserts in the world. It is a place where one can drive for hours and hours and encounter no one but camels, making it a paradise for introverts. Besides vast steppes, the Gobi is also home to sand dunes, rock formations, canyons, and Buddhist monasteries, and has something in store for everyone.

Much of the country lacks roads, however, the flat grassland is relatively easy to surmount with a 4×4 or even vintage Soviet vans. Since there are no human settlements other than sporadically spread out nomads’ yurts, the preferred way to experience the Great Gobi is on a camping road trip. Whether one wants to tackle the terrain oneself or outsource the navigation part to a local driver, this road trip is suitable for every level of off-road enthusiast. 

The most popular route for Gobi Desert road trips starts in the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar and extends south, making a round through the desert before coming back up northwest to Kharkhorin and then driving straight westward back to Ulaanbaatar.

Some popular stops on the way include the White Stupa rock formations, the Yol Valley canyon, the Khongor sand dunes and flaming cliffs, and the abandoned monastery of Ongi. In total, this route spans across nearly 2000 kilometers and can be covered at a leisurely speed within a week.

However, one must keep in mind that due to the rugged terrain mechanical issues with your vehicle are very common and it may take half a day to get help due to your remoteness.

One must also make sure to stock up on non-perishables before leaving the capital since shops and restaurants are very rare.

One of the most important parts to consider when planning a Gobi road trip is the weather. Characterized by a cold desert climate, sub-zero double digits prevail throughout most of the year, while summer brings along temperatures over 40℃ (100°F) . Hence, one of the best times to plan a road trip across the Gobi Desert is September.

September marks the peak of autumn in Mongolia , when the shrubs that grow throughout the steppe adopt vibrant hues and the grass turns golden. Daytime temperatures are comfortably above 20℃ while nights can get a little chilly below 10℃.

Since rain is scarce throughout the year, one can count on clear skies and impressive views of the Milky Way at night.

Casual attire is sufficient during the day but one should bring some layers and a good jacket for the night (and a warm sleeping bag in case of camping).

If you are open to considering other places around the world, here are some other fantastic destinations that would be great to visit in September:

• 25 Best Places To Visit In USA In September ;
• 23 Best Places To Visit In Europe In September ;
• 24 Best Beach Holidays in Europe In September ;
• 22 Best National Parks To Visit In Europe In September ; and
• 20 Best Places To Visit In The UK In September .

Jaipur, India

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is the capital city of the state of Rajasthan in India . Steeped with history, it is one of the few cities in India that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Part of the Golden triangle tourist circuit, it is almost always filled with visitors from across the world.

It is one of the best cities in Asia to visit in September as it has less crowds. This is when the monsoons are receding and the weather is pleasant enough to allow you to explore its numerous heritage sites.

Start your tour with the epic hill fort in Amer from where the royal family first ruled. It is filled with interesting activities like a walk through its secret tunnels to its protector fort – Jaigarh. After this place was abandoned, the new and current pink city emerged around the City Palace in Jaipur.  

You can embark on a  royal City Palace tour  that takes you right to the palace where the royal family resides to date. The tour can be combined with a walk through the functional sundials of Jantar Mantar and the unusual Hawa Mahal (palace of winds).

Jaipur is not just about heritage monuments. You should go one evening and explore the bustling markets. From bedcovers to Pashmina shawls and Bandhini attires, there is plenty to savour and take home. Don’t miss out on the traditional blue pottery that is still made by hand and the rich Kundan jewelry that goes with almost any outfit.

There are several authentic Jaipur restaurants where you can sample the local Rajasthani fare like Dal-Baati Churma, Laal Maas, Gatte ki Sabzi and Bajra roti. In fact, September is pleasant enough for you to try the open-air dining at Chokhi Dhani – which is designed like a typical hamlet. Besides the food, you can indulge in their fun cultural activities like getting Henna on your hands or enjoying the traditional folk dance and music.

Average high is 92 degree Fahrenheit with only a few days with some rain. There is 30% less humidity than the summer months.

Jaipur international airport makes it very easy to get into the city. It is only 10 miles from the city center and will only take 15 minutes.

Ami from Thrilling Travel says, “There are dozens of heritage havelis (traditional Rajasthani homes) that have been converted into stays.

Alternatively, you can choose from a luxury hotel like ITC Rajputana to mid-priced ones like Hotel Jaipur Heritage .

There are several hostels and budget ones too. The best to stay would be around Bani Park – which is almost central to all the markets and attractions in Jaipur.”

We spent 14 days exploring Jaipur, Delhi, Agra, and Amristar. We also did an astonishing tiger safari in Rathambore National Park. It was all extraordinary. For more information, please see An Astonishing 14 Day Itinerary in The Golden Triangle .

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a gorgeous city with deep ties to its past that can be seen in its historical landmarks, delicately preserved Unesco World Heritage Sites, and its rich culture. It’s one of the best September vacation destinations in Asia because the peak summer crowds have started to dwindle down. This is a game changer for many of Kyoto’s biggest attractions, especially if you are planning on doing  Kyoto in a day . 

If you’re short on time, you simply can’t miss the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine and the historical district of Higashiyama.

The first is the iconic orange Torii gates that line the mountain pathway leading up to the shrine. Along the way, you’ll come across different smaller shrines, the local kitties, and gorgeous views of Kyoto and the entirety of Fushimi Inari. 

Meanwhile, venturing into the Higashiyama District will show you a different part of Kyoto’s rich culture. As you walk through it, you’ll come across the Unesco World Heritage Site buildings and be able to stop at the numerous cafes and shops that line the streets. Afterward, head along to Yasaka shrine and the nearby Maruyama Park to relax and take a moment. 

When you’re done, the last spot you will want to go to is Kiyomizu Dera Temple. If you happen to be visiting mid-September, you might also be able to enjoy the Seiryu-E festival, also known as the blue dragon festival, that takes place at Kiyomizu Dera temple. 

Located in the Kansai region of Japan, Kyoto experiences relatively good weather during September, with highs of 89F and lows of 67F, with around 10 days with some rainfall. A refreshing contrast from the normal blistering summers in Japan, and instead replaced with subtle breezes and rain. 

Getting to Kyoto is fairly easy since the region has its own airport, Kansai International Airport. After you arrive, take the Kansai-Airport limousine bus straight to Kyoto Station. It is less than $20USD for a one-way ticket. 

Yesenia from The Sisters Who Voyage says, “When it comes to picking out a place to stay, choosing somewhere in Kyoto’s city center is best since you’ll be close to public transportation.

The  Hotel Granvia Kyoto  is a great option since it’s right next to Kyoto Station and an easy walk from Kyoto Tower and the shopping district.”

Almaty, Kazakhstan

Almaty, set in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains in southern Kazakhstan, makes for an excellent September holiday in Asia. With its tidy pedestrian streets, cozy wine bars and sunny cafe-filled lanes, travellers could be forgiven for mistaking Almaty for a European capital. 

There are many wonderful things to do in Almaty . Panfilv Park is a beautiful park located close to the city centre. It’s a lovely city refuge with lots of green spaces and benches that are perfect for watching the world go by. 

Stop by Arasan Baths, a traditional bathing complex and an excellent place to relax. And be sure to make a trip out to Big Almaty Lake. Located about 15 miles (25 kilometres) outside of the city, this stunning lake is surrounded by mountains and offers hiking trails and scenic views.

September is a great time to visit Almaty, particularly if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. With average highs sitting at a pleasant 75°F and lows around 50°F, with practically no rain, you can enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking. Additionally, the autumn colours in the surrounding mountains are particularly beautiful at this time of the year.

Almaty is easily accessible by air, train, and bus from many major cities in Kazakhstan and other neighbouring countries. 

The Almaty International Airport (ALA) is the largest airport in Kazakhstan and is serviced by several major airlines. There are direct flights to Almaty from many cities in Europe , Asia, and the Middle East.

Almaty also has a major railway station that connects it to other cities in Kazakhstan and neighbouring countries. There are several trains that run daily between Almaty and Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, as well as other cities such as Shymkent, Karaganda, and Aktobe. You can also take a train from Almaty to Urumqi in China, Tashkent in Uzbekistan and even all the way to Moscow.

Dotti from Travel Oasis says, “Almaty has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Evergreen Apart is a comfortable and well-equipped apartment in a great neighbourhood.”

Komodo National Park, Indonesia

One of the best September getaways in Southeast Asia is the enchanting Komodo National Park . Just one hour by plane from Bali, the Komodo National Park is home to the world famous endemic Komodo dragon.

Komodo National Park was founded to protect the Komodo dragons, the only living being on Earth with a direct link to the dinosaurs. The Park comprises the big islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar and 26 smaller ones. It was declared a world UNESCO heritage site in 1991.

The three best things to do in the Park include visiting Komodo or Rinca islands on a Komodo Dragon’s tour where the majestic Komodo dragons live. Snorkeling, scuba diving or swimming with Manta Rays at the Manta Ray cleaning station. Lastly, hiking to a peak on Padar to watch the sunset and see three different coloured beaches – white, black, and pink – before the sun slips below the horizon.

The best island to see the dragons is Rinca island where you will hike around the island with a ranger, spotting dragons in the savannah like landscape. If you are don’t see the dragons on the hike, you will have the chance to see them close to the rangers hut.

The Manta Rays cleaning station is a marine site on the way from Labuan Bajo to Rinca island and some of the tours will stop there so you can swim with these serene sea creatures. They hang around the spot in squadrons and you most likely see a few of them at once.

Finally, ending the day at Padar view point is fantastic as it is one of the best sunset spots in the world.

During this month you will experience sunny days and clear skies and temperatures around 86°F. There is practically no rain but there is lots of humidity.

The Park is only accessible by boat and they leave from Labuan Bajo, a small fishing village turned into a hot tourist spot due to its proximity to the Park.

There are daily flights from Denpasar airport (Bali) to Komodo airpot just a few minutes from Labuan Bajo center.

Pilar from Travel The World Pages says, “ Sunset Hill hotel offers one of the best quality accommodations in Labuan Bajo while offering rooms with stunning views over the bay.”

When I went, we stayed at the gorgeous  Komodo Resort  on the deserted island of Sebayur. It is located just outside of Komodo National Park and offers a tropical island escape with easy access to all the islands in Komodo National Park. For more information about our stay there, please see  The Unbelievable Wonders of Komodo National Park .

We spent a total of 17 days exploring Indonesia. In addition to Komodo National Park, we also hiked to watch the sunset on top of Kelimutu Volcano on Flores Island, trekked to find organutans in the wild in Borneo, and explored Borobudur (the biggest Buddhist Temple in the world) on Java. For more information about our itinerary, please see  A Mind Blowing 17 Day Adventure In Indonesia .

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi is located in the north, and the political and cultural capital of Vietnam. It is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to visit in September. The peak season to visit Hanoi is either during spring (February to April) or autumn (October to November). September lies in the shoulder season when the heavy rains have ended and the weather is not too hot.

Hanoi has plenty of cultural and religious sites to visit. One of the top attractions in the city is Ho Chi Minh Palace, built for Vietnam’s greatest political leader.

Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is a wonderful place to get a unique local feel of the city. You can sample fantastic street food and egg coffee in one of the local cafes here.

Another charming neighbourhood to visit is the French Quarter for old colonial buildings. The Opera House, just opposite the Metropole Hotel is worth visiting. This is the largest theatre in all of Vietnam. You should also visit the Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam.

Hanoi weather in September is mild, with average daily temperatures ranging from 75 °F (24 °C) to 88 °F (31°C). Average rainfall is around 6 inches over 17 days. Make sure you pack properly for Vietnam .

Hanoi has an international airport and is well connected locally to Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, as well as to international cities.

Shweta from Zest In A Tote says, “We stayed at the Sheraton Hotel . It is a luxurious hotel that features picturesque views of the West Lake, and is within a 10-minute drive of downtown Hanoi and the Hoan Kiem Lake.

September is outside the peak season so the hotel availability and prices should be both decent.”

Li River, China

Guilin is one of the loveliest September destinations to visit in Asia, as the exhausting heat of the Chinese summer lifts and the cooler days of autumn are ushered gently in.

In September, the streets are filled with the sweet fragrance of Osmanthus – the city’s favourite flower. Smaller and less frenetic than other popular tourist cities like Beijing and Shanghai, Guilin is a great place to wander, buy paintings direct from local artists and explore local markets at a slower pace.  

But, most visitors flock to Guilin to be close to the beautiful Li River that weaves through the dramatic karst mountains.

The best way to experience the other-worldliness of this spectacular scenery is on a one day  Li River cruise from Guilin  to the town of Yangshuo. Each turn in the river presents fresh landscapes, while water buffalo graze at the water’s edge and local fisherman putter along in traditional small boats.   

Multiple cruise boats (up to 50 a day) depart from the cruise port and the crowds can be immense. It’s wise to pre-book and to travel with a Chinese guide who can navigate through the masses and translate the all-Chinese commentary on the cruise boats. A great guide will also suggest you buy sweet local peaches for the trip from the vendors at the port! 

While 3-star cruises are available, the best experience is on the luxury 4-star cruise boats, where the upper decks have comfortable seats, and the food is far superior to the fare on other boats.  

On arrival in Yangshuo it’s easy to travel back to Guilin. Alternatively, linger a while and try out the local delicacy – beer fish. It’s delicious!!  

Average highs in September are 85°F and average lows are 71°F. There is very little rain and 30% less humidity than in the summer months.

Guilin is in southern China and has an international airport that is well connected to China’s major cities.

Coralie from Grey Globetrotters says, “Stay in the Aroma Tea House in Guilin – a beautiful boutique hotel, close to the lake, with exceptional views from the 5 th  floor restaurant and traditional-styled guest rooms. It’s gorgeous and has the friendliest service.”

Maafushi, Maldives

Maldives is known for its crystal-clear blue waters, overwater bungalows, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. It consists of 26 atolls and more than 1000 islands which comprise private island resorts and local islands.

The Maldives is known for its over the water bungalow resorts which are the most expensive accommodation! But if you want to visit  Maldives on budget , opt for visiting the local islands of Maldives.

One of such famous local island is Maafushi. The island is located 30 mins from Male and offers local cultural experiences.

However, there are restrictions. It is a Muslim country so alcohol is not permitted on the local islands and you have to dress modestly when not at the designated Bikini beach.

At Maafushi, you can indulge in water sports, snorkelling, and scuba diving. You can take a boat tour for dolphin watching and opt for a sand bank visit in the middle of the sea!

You can devour local Maldivian food and interact with locals. You can also take a ferry ride to nearby Fulidhoo island or Gulhi Island.

If you want to experience nearby resorts, many offer you the option to visit for a day. This way you can experience both worlds.

Maldives is one of the best September tropical beach escapes in Asia. The temperature sits at 82°F with around 6 inches of rain over 15 days.

Maldives is well connected with the world and almost all major airlines fly to its capital Male International airport.

From Male, you can take a ferry to the local islands which costs only a few dollars depending on the distance. If you are staying at expensive resorts, they will arrange the speedboat or seaplane transfer as per your arrival schedule.

Mayuri from fernwehrahee.com says, “ Kaani Grand Seaview and Kaani Beach Hotel are good options for maafushi. They are well priced, beautifully appointed and on the beach.”

Ladakh, India

Located high up in the Tibetan Plateau in the northernmost region of India is the territory of  Ladakh . It might just be one of the most picturesque locations in India, even more so in September as the willow and poplar trees lining most of this Himalayan region turn different shades of yellow, golden and brown as autumn falls.

Willow and poplar are two of the only few trees found around the otherwise naked and barren mountains of Ladakh due to their altitude which ranges from 3,500 to 4,500 meters (11,400 feet – 14,700 feet) above sea level. In fact, many mountain passes and peaks go well above 7000 meters (23,000 feet).

This incredible height makes Ladakh a sought-after destination for mountain sports like high-altitude trekking, ice climbing, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing and bouldering.

Ladakh is also home to some unique wildlife including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan marmot and the Kiang or the Tibetan wild ass.

Ladakh is also known for its magnificent Buddhist monasteries and high-altitude lakes like Pangong Tso (the world’s highest saltwater lake), Tso Kar and Tso Moriri.

September is one of the best times to visit Ladakh mostly because the crowds start waning and the temperatures start dipping. It is quite warm, sunny and comfortable during the days.

In addition, September is the month of the Ladakh Festival — a week-long cultural fair organized to give tourists a glimpse into the unique culture of the people of Ladakh.

It is quite warm, sunny and comfortable during the days with a maximum of 70 F. Evening to early morning can be quite chilly, though with the temperature dropping to 40F. There is practically no rain or humidity.

The only airport in Ladakh is the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in the capital city of Leh which has direct flights from most major cities in India.

Renting motorbikes and scooters is a popular way to get around Ladakh. However, buses are also very frequent and well-connected throughout the territory.

Avantika from Wayward Wayfarer says, “The Grand Dragon Ladakh is a great luxury hotel in Leh. It overlooks the famous Cold Desert and the surrounding mountains, and is near the market.”

Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui is a tropical island located in the Gulf of Thailand. Just 21 miles (35km) off the mainland town of Surat Thani, it is the second-largest island in the country and is approximately 435 miles (700km) south of Bangkok. 

The island is known for its stunning beaches, lush jungle, and vibrant nightlife. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious food. 

The most popular things to do on Koh Samui usually involve the ocean. Exploring the nearby Ang Thong Marine Park is top of the list. This pristine area is made up of 42 islands and is the perfect day trip with snorkelling and deserted beach swims. There are dozens of day trips to choose from so its easy to find one to fit your interest and budget. 

Next head into the hills and enjoy the cool green jungle of the island’s interior. Discover waterfalls and temples before making your way to one of the mountain top bars like Jungle Club or The Roof. 

Another favourite activity is a  beach crawl,  much like a bar crawl this involves visiting as many of the island’s beaches as you can, each one more lovely than the one before and almost all of them featuring small local restaurants and bars serving fresh seafood and ice cold drinks. 

When the sun goes down it’s time to head to one of the island’s many night markets. There are at least nine to choose from ranging from the very tourist driven Fisherman’s Village night market to the much more local option at Lamai Beach. 

In September, the island’s attractions are as enticing as ever, but with far fewer crowds to contend with, amplifying the island’s charm. In addition, this is when you will be able to find deals. Accordingly, it is one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia to visit in September.

September enjoys warm tropical climates with average highs and lows ranging from the mid-80s°F (~29°C)  to the mid-70s°F (~23°C), perfect for beach strolls and water activities.

There will be the occasional tropical rain showers (an average 17 days in September), but the rainy periods are usually confined to the late afternoon or early morning. The rainy season kicks in from October. 

There are two ways to get to Koh Samui and both are relatively easy. The first is to fly directly from Bangkok, Phuket or Chiang Mai. The airport is privately owned by Bangkok Airways so at popular times the prices can be high but they should be reasonable in September. 

You can also choose to arrive via ferry from Surat Thani which takes about 2.5 hours. You can take an overnight train or a budget flight to the mainland airport at Surat Thani. These are usually much cheaper than direct flights.

From the airport or port, you will need to take take a shuttle or taxi to your accommodation. 

Paula from Thailand Awaits says, “I have stayed in four different  beach areas on Samui  and each was quite different.

My favourite, Choengmon Beach located on the northern tip of Koh Samui, is one of the most tranquil and serene beaches on the island. Its’ calm bay with soft white sands and turquoise water are perfect for relaxing. The safe swimming and peaceful atmosphere in the area makes this a popular beach for families so if you are visiting without kids avoid the school vacations. 

For a really memorable vacation try to spring a few nights at the beachfront Kimpton Kitalay Samui . The hotel foyer and public areas feature dark wood and traditional Thai style. The first thing you view upon entering are the lush gardens and pools that seem to stretch from the dining areas to the sand and bring the ocean inside.

Hotel rooms and a variety of pool villas are available. The dining options are great and there are local restaurants along the beachfront when you feel like a change.”

Are you trying to decide between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan? For a detailed breakdown of each island to help you decide, please see Koh Phangan Vs. Koh Samui: Which Island Is Better?

Singapore, Singapore

Singapore is undoubtedly one of the best Asian city breaks in September. This city-state is located at the end of the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It’s connected to the country of Malaysia via a bridge. 

The great thing about  Singapore  is that there are many fabulous things to do. Gardens by the Bay is a highlight for sure! It’s a stunning futuristic park, full of huge metal ‘supertrees’, incredible conservatories, and plenty of charming gardens.

Singapore Zoo is another hugely popular attraction. Covering an impressive 64 acres (26 hectares), this zoo is home to over 4,000 animals. It is split up into different zones to replicate habitats from across the world. 

As well as the city’s variety of attractions, there are also some great annual events and festivals that take place in September. This includes the F1 World Championship Grand Prix and the World Food Fair. The latter brings together a wide variety of brands and products for you to try! 

In terms of the weather, the climate is very pleasant in September. Singapore encounters highs of between 85-90°F, and average low temperatures of around 78°F. As this city-state is a tropical destination , the climate remains sunny and humid. You can expect an average of 5 inches of rain over 12 days.

To reach Singapore, you can either travel overland from Malaysia or fly to Singapore Changi Airport. It’s a 25-minute drive to the city centre from the airport, and many people choose to get a taxi for convenience. The public buses are a very affordable option, and there are train services too, so there are plenty of transport choices.

A Couple Scalling says, “When it comes to accommodation, prices in Singapore can be costly.  CapsulePod@Aljunied  is one of the most affordable properties and offers capsule pods in a dormitory-style room.

For those who’d prefer a private room, check out  lyf Funan Singapore , which is known for its funky studio units.”

Seoraksan National Park, Korea

Seoraksan National Park is a favorite place in Asia for hiking in September. Located in the northeast corner of South Korea near the town of Sokcho, Seoraksan is popular year round, but especially in the fall as fall colors attract countless visitors. 

Whether you visit for fall colors or summer greenery, the trail from the main entrance passes a massive Buddha and wonderful temple on the way to many hikes.  

Ulsanbawi is a favorite short hike that yields a commanding view of the East Sea and surrounding mountains. The Cheonbuldong Valley continues past Ulsanbawi towards a river valley with waterfalls and beautiful mountains on either side. It is quite popular with hikers looking to dip their feet in some cool waters on an easier trail. 

Avid hikers will want to head to the Gongnyong Ridge aka Dinosaur Ridge. This all day trek tours all the best viewpoints in Seoraksan and is sure to leave you with a good story for a long day on the trails. 

Daecheongbong is the highest peak in Seoraksan and can be accessed after either the Cheonbuldong Valley or Dinosaur Ridge but many choose to start at the Osaek entrance for this peak rather than the main entrance. 

There are countless smaller hikes near the main entrance like Biryong Falls but those looking for an easier day in the Park should start their day with a stop at the  Seoraksan Cable Car  ticket office. This cable car is near the main entrance and brings you to the top of the Gwongeumseong Fortress; an impressive massif 2300 feet (700m) above the main trail offering panoramic views without a grueling hike.

When you’re done hiking the best thing to do is enjoy a traditional Korean jimjilbang. These saunas and bathhouses are quite affordable and often come with a communal sleeping area if you are on a budget.  But if you’re not on a budget, the mineral-fed hot water will soothe your muscles after a long day in the national park.

September in Seoraksan brings evening temperatures in the 40’s Fahrenheit and daytime highs in the 60’s Fahrenheit making it great for a fall hike. Always be prepared for rain (around 8 days with some rainfall) but September is generally part of the dry season making it one of the best times to visit South Korea. There is very little humidity.

Getting to Seoraksan can be tricky if you don’t speak Korean. You’ll want to fly into Seoul and either book a tour or learn enough Korean to navigate public transit. 

There are many English-friendly group tours that depart from Seoul and take you straight to the National Park, especially during peak fall colors. 

A bus ride to Sokcho takes about two hours and from there you can take a local bus or private taxi to Seoraksan National Park.

Michael from Live Travel Teach says, “ Goodstay Smile Resort is a great place to stay on the edge of the park and there are countless other options at the main entrance.”

Sanur, Indonesia (Bali)

If you’re thinking about hitting up Bali in September, Sanur is a great place to base yourself. This laid back coastal town on the south side of the island is void of the hustle and bustle of places like Kuta and Seminyak. Sanur is all about those serene beaches and the laid-back lifestyle. And the best part? September is when the tourist scene chills out after peak season.

Now, the real deal in Sanur is the beach and the promenade along Sanur Beach. We’re talking about a 6-kilometre stretch perfect for a lazy stroll or a bike ride. The view is breathtaking with ocean vibes, local fishing boats, and a glimpse of Mount Agung in the distance. The sunrise is totally unforgettable. Take a stroll or lay your towel out  on the beach,  no matter what, you will be enjoying Sanur.

Along the beach path, you’ve got 5-star hotels, cool restaurants, bars, and local Warungs (that’s Indonesian for small family-owned restaurant businesses). It’s basically a day-long pub crawl on the beach, minus the thumping dance music. So, if you’re into a more mature scene, this is your spot.

For a bit of shopping, hit up Jalan Danu Tamblingan – Sanur’s main street. You’ll find all the Bali goodies you love, from leather goods to local art. Just keep an eye out for those counterfeit products we all tend to snag in Bali.

From May to September, it’s all about the dry season with warm, sunny vibes. September is prime time, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 88°F. There is practically no rain and lots of humidity, perfect for beach activities.

Getting there is a breeze when you fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, then it’s just a 20-minute jaunt to Sanur. Grab a Bluebird Taxi or arrange a ride with a local driver for around $15-$20 USD.

Mark from Things To Do In Sanur says, “When it comes to places to stay, Sanur’s got options for every budget. Whether you’re into big names like the Intercontinental or chilling in a homestay, there’s something for everyone.

Check out Hotels Jati Sanur for budget vibes, Swiss-Belresort Watu Jimbar for mid-range, and splurge at the Maya Resort and Spa for some luxury feels.”

Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Dedicated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Samarkand  is the second largest city in Uzbekistan and one of the best city escapes in Asia in September. Meaning the stone fort or stone town, the city of Samarkand played an important role in the Silk Route and the city dates back to the 8 th  century.

As there is so much history, the city is home to many historical monuments such as Shah-i-Zinda and Registan Square. The Shah-i-Zinda is a spectacular necropolis housing tombs of many popular figures of the country from different periods. And Registan Square was a gathering place in the 15 th  century, mostly used for public executions.

As the weather is perfect for tourists and the locals during the fall season, there are many events and festivals that take place in the city. In fact, the country celebrates its Independence Day on the 1st of September.

Apart from this, there are weeklong festivals like the biggest music festival of Central Asia named Festival of Sharq Taronalari that starts from the end of August till the beginning of September.

The best time to travel to Samarkand is during the autumn season which lasts between the months of September and November. The weather during September is very pleasant and ranges between 81 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit with no rain or humidity.

The closest international airport to get to Samarkand is around 4 miles (6 kilometres) from the city centre. Samarkand International Airport is the second busiest airport in the country and the airport serves both domestic and international flights.

You can also take the speed trains from the capital city of Tashkent to reach Samarkand. The distance is around 186 miles (300 kilometres) and the journey takes about 4 to 5 hours by train.

Raksa from Solopassport says, “Samarkand is a popular tourist destination in Uzbekistan and has plenty of stay options catering to budget and luxury travelers.

Situated in the city, Zarafshon Parkside Hotel is a beautiful place to stay in a great location. The hotel is in a 19 th  century mansion with luxurious amenities.”

Xiaoliuqiu, Taiwan

Xiaoliuqiu is a little slice of paradise in Asia and a perfect Asian vacation in September. The island goes by many names (Little Liuqiu, Little Okinawa, Lambai Island), but the main thing you need to know is that it is located off the southwestern corner of Taiwan.

Xiaoliuqiu is the only inhabited coral island in the country. It is most famous for its 1000 or so resident giant sea turtles. You can see or snorkel with these gentle creatures from virtually any beach on the island, with or without a guide – just never touch one, as there are hefty fines. You are virtually guaranteed to see them in September.

The island is small enough that you can easily ride a bicycle, electric bike, or scooter (International Driver’s Permit with A class stamp needed for the latter) around it in one day. On the way, you can discover deserted beaches, cute cafés overlooking the sea, deep caves made of coral, Daoist temples, and quiet fishing villages.

So why choose to come here in September? Well, with summer holidays finished, the crowds of domestic tourists will be gone, yet the weather remains idyllic.

Two to three days is generally enough to fully experience this small island. Round out your trip by visiting some of  Taiwan’s other offshore islands , each with its own highlights.

Expect temperatures around 86°F in the daytime and not much cooler at night – so yes, don’t forget your sunscreen! There is around 6 inches of rain over 10 days, and lots of humidity.

Another selling feature of Xiaoliuqiu is that it’s crazy easy to get there. From Taoyuan International Airport near the capital Taipei in the north, you can reach this tropical haven in just over four hours.

Budget 30 minutes to get to Taoyuan High Speed Rail station, 2 hours to whizz down to Zuoying in the far south, an hour on the bus to the ferry terminal in Donggang, and then an hour to reach the island by ferry.  

When you’re at the ferry terminal in Donggang, either on the way in or out, don’t miss the huge Huaqiao Fish Market right beside it. There you can sample ultra-fresh sashimi and other seafoods.

Nick from Taiwan Obsessed says, “I recommend staying at  Ocean Dream  in Xiaoliuqiu. This is a simple guesthouse right by where the ferry terminal. It has harbor and ocean views from the rooms (we even saw a sea turtle right from our balcony!). It also has friendly owners who can arrange snorkeling trips, scooter rentals, and more.”

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Ninh Binh, situated in northern Vietnam, is a province known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its resemblance to the iconic limestone karst formations found in the bay.

It is one of the best places to visit in September for an Asian holiday. The month marks a transition from the rainy season to fall.

Taking a  boat tour of Tam Coc  and/or Trang An are the must-do activities in the area. The tours will guide you through limestone cliffs, grottoes (caves) and rice fields, showcasing Ninh Binh’s natural beauty. September’s milder weather accentuates this beauty, making these boat rides both a peaceful and visually stunning experience.

Another highlight is a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. The ancient temples and structures sit amongst picturesque landscapes providing a glimpse into the country’s imperial past. In addition, visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest Buddhist pagodas in Southeast Asia.

For those looking for a little more adventure, cycle through the countryside to see the rural lifestyle. Also, hike to the summit of Mua Cave as the climb rewards you with panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s beautiful countryside.

Ninh Binh offers comfortable temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F. The weather tends to be sunny, but expect some rainfall (around 8 inches over 13 days) and be prepared with a raincoat and umbrella.

For travellers flying into Vietnam, Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) serves as the closest international airport, approximately 62 miles (100 kilometres) from Ninh Binh.

From there, a two to three-hour journey by private transfer, bus, or train offers picturesque views of the Vietnamese countryside en-route to Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.

Due to its proximity to Hanoi, Ninh Binh makes for a popular day tour for travellers seeking natural beauty and historical exploration.

Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels say, “During our visit to Ninh Binh, we chose to stay in Tam Coc and use this as our base for exploring the area.

For accommodation, we recommend staying at Lys Homestay which is centrally located in Tam Coc and walking distance to a great range of restaurants and bars. The rooms were large and clean, and included breakfast daily. It was an excellent base for exploring Ninh Binh’s wonders.”

Beijing, China

September is one of the best times to visit Beijing. It offers visitors pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to witness stunning fall foliage.

The famous Great Wall of China spans much of the length of the country, including Beijing. It is surrounded by rolling hills, mountains, and trees on both sides that begin to change to vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red during the month of September. 

In addition, you’ll find Beijing’s parks and gardens begin to transform with autumn hues.

In September, historical sites like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven are less crowded than they are during the summer months, which is peak season for tourism. 

Be sure to take a stroll through the hutongs. These traditional, older neighborhood streets known for their narrow streets or alleyways offer an authentic glimpse at real life in Beijing. 

Visit during the Autumn Equinox, and you’ll also get to experience the Mid-Autumn Festival. This celebration is considered one of the most important festivals in China. The festival includes cultural performances, parades, and the opportunity to learn traditional Chinese skills like calligraphy.

You can generally expect cooler weather than the summer months, with average high temperatures in the upper-70s and lows in the low 60s. There is only a few days of rain and humidity. The cooler temperatures also bring better air quality, a huge bonus for travelers with medical conditions like asthma.

Getting to Beijing is easy any time of year, as the city is home to one of the biggest international airports in the world.

Melissa from Parenthood and Passports says, “Book your stay at a hotel in the Wangfujing neighborhood, like Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, which puts you within walking distance to some of the city’s iconic attractions and its famous DongHuaMen Night Market.”

Koh Phangan, Thailand

Koh Phangan is an amazing island in the Gulf of Thailand, off the eastern coast of the Thai mainland. Koh Samui is located right next, like a bigger, more famous “sister”.

Koh Phangan has become known for its Full Moon parties. It’s a unique time of the month when the population of the island shoots up dramatically but it’s mostly focused in the southeast of the island, where the Full Moon party beach can be found.

Outside of that time of the month, it’s a beautiful lush island, which still retains a lot of its greenery (some sources say up to 70% of the island is green), has amazing beaches of all kinds, as well as tourist & digital nomad infrastructure.

There are many yoga retreats centered in the Sri Thanu area, and countless cafés where one can sit all day with your laptop and enjoy a proper cup of coffee.

You can stay on Koh Phangan for weeks as you can go hiking on its many trails, discover local temples, and swim in the ocean to your heart’s content.

September is a great time to  visit Koh Phangan . The rainy season hasn’t started yet, and the main crowds that come in December and January are nowhere to be found. That means it’s easier to find a place to stay and enjoy a more chilled atmosphere.

Regarding temperatures, you can expect as high as 87.8 °F and as low as 78.8 °F. It’s nice and balmy! Like many tropical destinations, you can expect a little bit of rain each day.

The quickest way to get to Koh Phangan is to fly to Koh Samui Airport and take a 30-minute ferry from there.

However, a cheaper route is to fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani on the Thai mainland, which takes around an hour, and then take a 2.5-hour ferry to Koh Phangan. 

Veronika from Travel Geekery says, “You can stay at Seaflower Bungalows, which is a lovely mid-range accommodation option on Haad Chao Phao Beach. It’s also a great starting location to get to all other interesting places on the western coast of the island.”

There are many wonderful places to visit in Asia in September. From beach destinations, city escapes, nature retreats, and cultural hot spots, you will have your choice of amazing Asian getaways.

Similar Posts

Best Places To Visit In India: Four Reasons Why You Should Go

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole I have now written two blogs about our trip to India in…

25 Best Places To Visit In USA In January (2024)

Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by Nicole January is a great time to get away in the United States….

25 Best Places To Visit In Europe In April (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole April is one of the best times to take a European vacation….

Koh Phangan vs. Koh Samui: Which Island Is Better (2024)?

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole There are over 1400 islands in Thailand. This is an overwhelming number…

Best 11 Days Guatemala Itinerary In Winter (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole Initially, what I loved about our trip to Guatemala was just how…

Amritsar Sightseeing in India: Things You NEED to know

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole Our family of 5 (three teenagers) spent a few days Amritsar sightseeing…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

DOWNLOAD THE ITINERARY

• Email Address *

September In Asia: 16 Amazing Places To Visit

Categories Destinations , Asia , Indonesia , Japan , Kazakhstan , Kuala Lumpur , Lombok , Malaysia , Mui Ne , Nusa Penida , Singapore , Sri Lanka , Thailand , Vietnam

Asia is a remarkable continent. It has so many different countries, terrains, cultures etc. It is this diversity that attracts people from far and wide to explore it.

Spending September in Asia is a popular choice among both local and international tourists. The weather is great, in most countries the monsoons have retreated, and the climate is just right.

We worked with a number of travel bloggers to put together this piece (the next in our series of travelling Asia by month!).

We received some really amazing suggestions. In fact, there were many places that we had never considered visiting during that time.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my disclaimer for further information.

September In Asia: Table Of Contents

If you have been following our series of spending your vacation in Asia, then you will have realized that our lists tend to be long. This can make them hard to navigate. We were faced with the choice of splitting them into parts or improving the way you scroll through them. We chose the latter. The following links will take you to country specific locations which are perfect to spend September in Asia.

Saudi Arabia

Indonesia has been one of those locations that we have visited multiple times over the years. The gorgeous coasts that border the different islands, the diverse landscapes and the tropical weather all work together to capture our attention. A lot of travel bloggers found the islands of Indonesia perfect to spend September in Asia. Take a look at the all the places that made the list.

1. Gili Islands

Gili T is a gorgeous place in Indonesia to spend September in Asia.

LOCATION:  The Gili Islands are 3 tiny slices of heaven located near Lombok’s northwest coast -106 km east of Bali, southern Indonesia.

GETTING THERE:  Most travellers head to the Gili Islands from Bali using a fast boat service. This is quite a straight forward option as you can hire a  pack that includes a shuttle from your location to Padang Bai  -the port from where you’ll connect with the islands. It’s also possible to use the public ferry boat but the trip takes much longer.

Plus, the ferry will leave you in Lombok, from where you’ll need to take a 2nd public boat. To hire the fast boat service, just talk to the staff at your accommodation in Bali, or head to the central area of where you are staying, and shop for good deals! You can also book your fast boat transfer online .

The Gili Islands are 3: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Trawangan is known as the ‘party island,’ and is the one offering the most options for travellers on any type of budget.

Gili Meno and Gili Air are couples’ and families’ favorites as they offer a more chilled vibe, far from all the party rocking going on at ‘Gili T.’ Gili Trawangan is a fabulous place to set base and go on day trips! Know that as the islands are so small, there are no cars!

Just bicycles, electric scooters, and Cidomos -kinda like tuk-tuks, but drawn by horses. So, in the end, you can stay anywhere you like…think of it this way, regardless of where you are, there’s a beach 5 minutes away -max!

Visiting the Gili Islands with an open heart is like falling in love with traveling over and over again. Stroll around each of them in just over 1 hour, mingle with the locals while dancing by a bonfire, go surfing, diving, sunset chasing, munching on local food, and truly enjoying all-things-chilling.

The Gilis are tiny spots on the map where you could stay 1 day and pretty much see it all, but you’d stay a month, just because you love them so much.

The islands were heavily shaken by Lombok 2018′ earthquake, so you will see patches of them that seem abandoned or dirty. Don’t let this get you!

If you feel like helping just reach out to the locals and ask them to share their stories with you, ask how you can be of service.

One of the biggest problems the islands face are flocks of tourists taking their party skills way too far, so try not to be this person! You’ll end up missing the one thing that really matters and that is… You are in paradise! Enjoy!

By Martina from The Global Curious

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in the Gili islands.

Tours In The Gili Islands That You Should Consider: One of the best experiences is the private snorkeling trip from the Gili T. It takes you to Gili Meno and the waters around Gili T. It is an epic adventure.

2. Komodo Island

The Komodo islands are a great place to spend September in Asia.

LOCATION: Komodo National Park near Flores Indonesia.

GETTING THERE: You can reach Flores by flying from Bali (Denpasar) to Labuan Bajo (Komodo Airport), travel overland with a ferry/bus combination or by taking a 4-day boat trip that is a popular backpacking adventure.

WHERE TO STAY: For diving it is possible to stay on a liveaboard boat cruising to the best dive sites in the park for a couple of days.

Most people visiting Flores stay in Labuanbajo with plenty of hotels, backpackers and accommodation for every budget.

Boats to Komodo island and the main dive sites in the park depart daily from here. There is also accommodation on small surrounding islands like Flores Xpirates Dive Camp is set in Sebayur Island.

September is a great time to visit the park. It is not the main tourist season, conditions are good with little wind and waves, the water is clear, and the temperature is moderate.

Diving in Komodo National Park , surrounded by massive Manta Rays, pelagic fish hunting and a jaw dropping variety of colourful tropical fish is an experience difficult to beat.

This time of the year is a good time for mantas, and you might even see sperm whales! With good weather you can visit Komodo Island to see the dragons.

The most famous dive site is Manta Point, a shallow drift dive floating over a manta cleaning station, divers are often surrounded by up to 20 large manta rays while hanging in the current witnessing the spectacle on the cleaning station.

By Campbell and Alya from Stingy Nomads

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in the Komodo islands.

3. Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is one gorgeous place to spend September in Asia.

LOCATION: Nusa Penida

GETTING THERE: Nusa Penida is situated just 30 minutes by ferry from Bali Mainland. Boats leave daily from Sanur Harbour , and you can buy your ticket a night before departure or book online before your trip.

WHERE TO STAY: The best area to stay on Nusa Penida is Toya Pakeh Harbour or Crystal Bay Beach. My favourite hotel is Semabu Hills Hotel that boasts a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Nusa Penida is a great destination to go on holiday in September. It’s still within the dry season that ends in October, and it’s outside of school holidays which means fewer crowds and lower prices.

Nusa Penida is a small Indonesian island just of Bali mainland. It will take your breath away with its unspoiled nature, pristine clean beaches and dramatic clifftop views. Penida Island is still one of those places where you can find an empty beach and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature without another soul near you.

Visit Instagram famous Kelingking beach and take an epic shot from a clifftop overlooking the T-rex shape rock formation. Explore some unworldly creations of Mother Earth including nature-made tidal lagoon of Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach.

Head to Crystal Bay, an impressive diving spot where you can swim with manta rays . Visit Atuh Beach, which is located on the Eastern side of Nusa Penida.

The beach is hidden away in a bay and protected from strong waves which makes it perfect for swimming.  Spend a day lazing on a binbag sipping fresh coconut and soaking in the views of a perfectly turquoise lagoon.

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in the Nusa Penida.

Japan has been on our radar for years. It isn’t just about the food which is delicious! Japan has intrigued me because of the gorgeous landscape, the discipline that it is famous for and because well… It is so clean or that’s what I have been told. If it is anything like Singapore, I am sure that I will fall in love.

4. Snow Monkey Park

Ever considered spending September in Asia at the Snow monkey park in Japan.

LOCATION: Jigokudani Monkey Park (Snow Monkey Park) in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan

GETTING THERE: Take the train to the Nagano Station. From there, take a 41-minute bus ride to the Bus Stop Snow Monkey Park at Kanbayashi Osen. From there you walk for 25 minutes to the Snow Monkey Park.

WHERE TO STAY: I recommend staying at the Kokuya Ryokan. It’s a traditional Japanese stay and right next to the park. There are a variety of hot springs (that sometimes even the monkeys soak in) right in and next to the ryokan. The ryokan also offers a nine-course traditional Japanese dinner.

I went to Japan in early September and the Snow Monkey Park was the highlight of the trip. It’s located in the beautiful mountains in Japan, even in September, everything was so lush and green.

The first day when we arrived at the Snow Monkey Park, it was raining, and the monkeys were hiding. We walked around the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, saw the hot springs, and enjoyed the location.

That evening we stayed at the ryokan, soaks in hot springs, had the nine-course dinner, and slept on mats on the floor that were more comfortable than any bed I’ve ever slept in.

In the late morning as we were getting ready to leave and our taxi was arriving, the sun came out and the monkeys came out! We even saw a couple of mama and baby monkeys.

By Jenny with Campsite Vibes

Have you ever though of spending September in Asia in the gorgeous regions that Kazakhstan has to offer? I know I have. The problem is that it is a bit tough to get to the country from where I live, or I would have hopped on the next flight out. Seriously! Just take a look at the gorgeous photographs that accompany every post that includes the country!

Now doesn’t this look a gorgeous place to spend September in Asia?

LOCATION: Almaty

GETTING THERE: Most people fly into Almaty International Airport or come by minibus from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

WHERE TO STAY: The Kazakhstan Hotel

Almaty is the cultural capital of Kazakhstan and a fabulous place to explore in September when the mountain air cools everything down just enough to really be able to get out and enjoy nature! Also, the city is famous for its namesake Big Almaty Lake, which is a vibrant blue mountain lake.

September is an especially good time to visit because the lake is at its most vibrant during this time of year. The city has some great attractions, especially for anyone wanting to do any Red Tourism and explore the country’s Soviet past.

However, there are tons of great places to take day trips from Almaty , including Tamgaly Tas, a Buddhist Open Air Rock Sanctuary, and Nomad’s Land, a former movie set turned Instagram haven. For great city views, head to the bar at the top of the Kazakhstan Hotel .

This former Soviet Hotel, complete with social realist architecture, is now an upscale experience. The views from the tables here look out over the entire city, and there are small telescopes on the tables to help you enjoy it!

Take note that Kazakhstan tourism isn’t quite as up to date as other countries. You’ll need cash to do many things when you leave the city. In Almaty, though, expect a modern city with great amenities, architecture, and people.

By Stephanie from History Fan Girl

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Almaty.

Another country that we have spent a surprising amount of time in is Malaysia. Yup! Check my passport and you will definitely see multiple Malaysian visas.

Ironically, a lot of this time has been spent on the island of Borneo. We still have to explore the mainland more. Did I mention that it is also a great lace to spend September in Asia?

6. Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is another brilliant place to spend September in Asia.

LOCATION: Kuala Lumpur

GETTING THERE: This major city in Asia is well connected by flight, train, bus, and other modes of public transport.

WHERE TO STAY: the best areas are the neighbourhoods of Bukit Bintang or KLCC City Centre.

No visit to Asia in September is complete without a stop in Kuala Lumpur. The capital of Malaysia has grown to become one of the best cities to offer a great blend of city life and rural experience, with a good mix of different languages and cultures.

Some of the iconic landmarks include the Petronas Twin Towers, Independence Square, and the National mosque, with the highlight being a visit to the 400-million-year-old Batu Caves.

With a classic equatorial climate, Kuala Lumpur is relatively humid and hot overall, and there is always the possibility of rain at any time of the year.

The weather does go through random floods and heat waves and is affected by two major monsoon seasons yearly during April–May and October–November.

During this time the city experiences extensive rainfall and thunderstorms. Arriving in-between this period, allows one to enjoy the city without having to worry too much about wet weather interfering in any activities and spoiling the sightseeing.

Daily high temperatures are around 31°C, rarely falling below 30°C. It is also a good time to experience many of the holiday celebrations that occur at this time of the year.

By Rai from A Rai Of Light

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

7. Langkawi

September in Asia cannot get better than chilling on the beaches of Langkawi.

Location: Langkawi

Getting There: You can get to Langkawi very easily. It has a very active airport which is well connected to major hubs. Alternatively, you could even take the ferry over from Penang or even Thailand! Yes! I’m not kidding. 

Where To Stay: For a budget stay, book a room at the Chill Suites . If you are looking for a more luxurious experience then head to Ombak Villa . We loved it here. 

Langkawi is one of the coolest locations in Malaysia for a vacation. This island is a unique spot to spend some time at. Not only is the entire island part of a UNESCO heritage site, it also has loads of things to do.

Popular things to do on the island include island hopping, sunset cruises and visiting the mangroves. Many people love to chill on one of the numerous beaches of Langkawi. Soft white sand, gentle waves and great entertainment.

Oh and if you want to do something really unique then visit Nasi Dagang Pak Malau . This is a pretty unique place to catch a bite to eat. You will find yourself surrounded by green fields and a pretty chill laid back atmosphere. The food here is the best that you will get on the island too!

Oh and did I mention the usual activities that draw the tourists? Probably not! Well you can visit the Langkawi sky bridge, head to the petting zoo, have a VR experience and more!

Tours In Langkawi That You Should Consider: If you are in Langkawi and are looking for unique experiences, I highly recommend booking the sunset cruises, the island hopping tours and the mangrove tours.

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Lankawi.

Penang is an epic place to spend September in Asia!

Location: Penang, Malaysia

Getting There: Penang is very well connected to all the major hubs of Malaysia. It has an active airport and there are numerous flights that fly in and out every day. Alternatively you can take a bus or drive a car.

Where To Stay: Campbell house

I loved Penang from the day we first set foot on the island. George Town was my go to location. Why? I’m a big foodie and Penang is a foodies paradise. September in Penang offers a mix of weather but since you have a mix of both indoor and outdoor activities, there is always something to do if it rains.

One of the best things to do is to scout around for the best breakfast in Penang . Our favorites were definitely Roti Bakar at Hutton Lane and Roti Canai at Gemas road.  

Oh and let’s not forget that it doesn’t always have to be about street food in Penang . There are some really cool cafes in Penang that you can sit and work from. This is what makes Penang a great place for people who are digital nomads.

There are a lot of great cultural things to explore too. I highly recommend exploring the Penang Clan jetties . They are a unique area on the island and are certainly worth visiting.

Tours In Penang To Consider:  If you are in Penang do not miss the Georgetown food tour . It literally gives you a flavor of the island. The flexible 6 hour highlight tour is another interesting way to discover the island.

Note: Don’t forget to check out the other local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Penang.

To be honest, Saudi Arabia is one of those locations that I have never really considered when it came to spending September in Asia. Interestingly, Jeddah sounds like a really cool place to visit during that time.

Have you ever considered spending your September in Asia in Jeddah?

LOCATION: Jeddah

GETTING THERE: The best option is by plane. There are several directs from Europe for example.

WHERE TO STAY: Ibis Jeddah City Centre is a pretty good option.

Jeddah, a port city with more than three million inhabitants on the west coast of Saudi Arabia , is one of the most important trade centres in the country and the perfect place for a trip in September. Especially since the temperatures are bearable compared to the super-hot summer months.

The city is considered more cosmopolitan and less conservative than the capital Riyadh. Its location on the Red Sea also makes it an attractive tourist destination, but most travellers are pilgrims who travel from here to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

Little is left of the old structure of the commercial metropolis, but efforts have been made for some years to renovate the remaining buildings, especially the coral houses. As a recognition and motivation, the old town was given the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

There are modern glass and concrete skyscrapers along the magnificent beach boulevard, the Corniche, but the old town with its picturesque alleys and souks begins right opposite, where you can still bargain in the oriental way.

Not far from the busy centre are the diving and bathing resorts on the Red Sea. And guess what is the best time to do that? September of course.

By Clemens from Travellers Archive 

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Jeddah.

10. Singapore

Singapore is an amazing place to spend September in Asia.

LOCATION: Singapore

GETTING THERE: Singapore is an accessible location to get to as it a significant hub of Asia. With most major airlines arriving into one of Changi Airports 4 terminals. You may also enter via land if you are travelling from Malaysia or arrive via ferry from the surrounding (mostly) Indonesian islands.

WHERE TO STAY: Marina Bay Sands

Most people will have seen the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel when googling the word Singapore, especially the infinity pool that is found on the rooftop.

What most people are not aware of is that you can only enter the pool if you are a guest of the hotel, so why not splurge and stay at this iconic location.

Singapore is known for its clean streets and tropical weather, which makes it the perfect location all year round. Singapore is easy to manoeuvre with its affordable state of the art public transport system. There are many free walking tours on offer; however, you can get around easy enough on your own.

Whether you choose to explore Singapore’s history around Fort Canning, enjoy the nightlife and bars that can be found in Clarke Quay or decide to spend your entire time on Sentosa Island, it makes for the perfect vacation spot for all ages and all vacation types.

Singapore is also known for its melting pot of culinary delights with Indian, Chinese and Malay cuisine’s found everywhere. You can taste Singapore’s favourite dishes at Michelin star restaurants or dine at many of the affordable hawker’s markets; either way, you will not be disappointed.

You can find out for yourself why Singaporeans pride themselves as being real “foodies”. It is a perfect place to spend September in Asia.

By Paula from Truly Expat

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Singapore.

Sri Lanka is one of my favourite countries in Asia. Since it is so close to India, flights here are quite cheap. The short flight also means that you won’t spend a lot of time in transit. I love the food that the country has to offer and the fact the weather is great makes it a perfect place to spend September in Asia.

Ella is one of my favourite places when it comes to spending September in Asia.

LOCATION:  Ella, Sri Lanka

GETTING THERE:  Ella is located at the southern end of Sri Lanka Hill Country and can be easily reached by train or bus. There are direct trains from Kandy and Nanu Oya, which is right outside Nuwara Eliya. You can also get there by bus from Colombo’s Pettah bus station.

WHERE TO STAY:  The best places to stay in Ella are 98 Acres hotel , where you can stay in a balcony with incredible views over the mountains and tea plantations and have your own plunge pool, or Will Guest Homestay , which is more suitable for budget travelers.

Ella   is one of the most popular places to visit in Sri Lanka, as it offers a great array of attractions and things to do, and it has a young, active vibe and – as opposed to other places in Sri Lanka – it is well geared to receiving tourists since it has quite a wide accommodation selection as well as good restaurants (which actually are not that common in Sri Lanka).

Among the things to do in Ella , make sure to go to Nine Arch Bridge , which was completed in 1921 and is beautifully set among tea plantations.

The best time to visit is when the train which connects Kandy to Bandarawela (via Ella) runs – which is several times a day. So, make sure to check the train timetable to get there a bit in advance.

Ella is a great hiking destination. If the strenuous hike to admire the sunrise from Adam’s Peak sounds too challenging, you can opt for the 1 hour hike to Little Adam’s Peak which starts from the back of 98 Acres Hotel.

Not far from Ella you will find an abundance of beautiful waterfalls. Ravana Waterfall is easily reached and incredibly scenic.

You may also want to see Elle Wala waterfall, which on the other hand is a bit further away but blissfully isolated, with a nice natural swimming hole you can enjoy all by yourself.

Have I mentioned that the temperatures are great which makes Ella a perfect spot to spend September in Asia?

By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Jaffna is another great location to spend September in Asia.

LOCATION:  Jaffna

GETTING THERE:  Depending on where in Sri Lanka you’re coming from, the best to get into Jaffna is either by bus or by train.

Assuming you’re flying into Colombo, the easiest and fastest way to get to Jaffna is by train. Although you would have to take the train from Colombo Fort Station, which located in the city. And getting into the city from the airport by public transport can be challenging.

However, by taxi or TukTuk it’s only a short ride. There are six trains a day departing from Colombo Fort.

The train takes about 6 or 10 hours, depending on whether you take the Intercity or Long-Distance train.  You can find the departure times of the trains on the official Sri Lanka Rail Service.

Are you coming from Anuradhapura?

You will take the same train that’s coming from Colombo. Lastly, for anyone who’s coming from Trincomalee on the east coast. You should take one of the four daily buses that depart from Trincomalee’s main bus station.

Jaffna will be listed as the final destination and it takes approximately 6 hours.

WHERE TO STAY:  For the solo budget travellers, there is only one hostel in Jaffna, which is called the Yaarl hostel .

It is not the greatest and most social hostel you will ever stay at, but it does the job. For other travellers, there are quite a number of guesthouses and hotels to choose from.

Jaffna is another big and busy Sri Lanka city. However, don’t scratch Jaffna of your list just yet! Jaffna is not like any other Sri Lankan city, and that is exactly what makes it such an interesting place to visit. 

The majority of the population in Jaffna is Tamil, even though they form a minority in Sri Lanka. Their main religion is Hinduism, which is why you will find many beautiful Hindu temples in, and around Jaffna.

Sadly, Jaffna was hit hard by the recent civil, which lasted 26 years, and only ended in 2009. During this time many Sri Lankans fled Jaffna, and tourists never dared to visit.

Nowadays both Sri Lankans and tourists are slowly returning to Jaffna, but you won’t see large crowds of tourists in Jaffna as you would in places such as Sigiriya or Ella.

Yet there are quite a lot of fun things to do in Jaffna. Such as visiting Jaffna Fort, some Hindu temples, and the most northern point of Sri Lanka.

The contrast between these pretty sights, and all the abandoned and damaged building as a result of the civil war, is what makes Jaffna such an interesting place to visit.

Jaffna might not be the most beautiful sight in Sri Lanka. But seeing the impact of the war and learning the story behind it, is so affecting, it makes Jaffna worth a visit nonetheless. Plus, the colourful temples and very few tourists make up for the lack of beauty.

By Lara from Both Feet On The Road

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Jaffna.

Looking for a great place to spend September in Asia? Have you ever thought of spending the month in Tajikistan? The country doesn’t always make its way on to many lists but we have heard so much about its gorgeous countryside. Makes it a very tempting place to visit.

13. Pamir Highway

Have you considered spending your September in near the Pamir Highway?

LOCATION: The Pamir highway

GETTING THERE: you can either start in Dushanbe, Tajikistan or Osh in Kyrgyzstan. Both cities have airports where you can fly in.

WHERE TO STAY: Homestays along the way

The Pamir highway is one of the epic road trips in Asia. Crossing the high Pamir mountains in Tajikistan it is one of the highest highways in the world. The Ak Baital pass is at no less than 4655 meters altitude. As a result, this journey offers the most stunning mountain sceneries in Central Asia. 

The Pamir highway runs from Dushanbe in Tajikistan to Osh in Kyrgyzstan. Although in theory it is possible to do this journey in 3 long days, this is not recommended. There is so much to see and do that you need at least a week to appreciate all that this road trip has to offer.

You need even more time if you like to do some of the detours into the lush Bartang valley or the multicultural Wakhan corridor that runs along the border of Afghanistan.

The road here runs so close that you can easily see the Afghan villages at the other side of the river. On the way you will stay in basic, but welcoming homestays.

In September it will be getting cold already and you need to pack warm clothes, but there are good reasons to visit this month. With the autumn colours in the poplar trees and clear blue skies this is when the Pamir highway is at its most beautiful.

Despite the rather cool temperatures, you will find that the Pamir highway is perfect place to visit in September in Asia.

By Ellis From Backpack Adventures

Thailand is a gorgeous country and it made its way onto our list of places to spend September in Asia for a number of reasons.

The climate, the beaches, the mountains, the food and the people are just a few of the ones that come to mind. Take a look at what other travel bloggers have to say about the country and why you should visit it.

14. Chiang Rai

September in Asia… Have you considered Chiang Rai?

LOCATION: Chiang Rai

GETTING THERE: Chiang Rai is located in the far north of Thailand. There is no airport or train station. The best way to get to Chiang Rai is by taking a bus from Chiang Mai. It will take about 3 hours. A lot of buses run between the two cities each day.

WHERE TO STAY : The best area to stay in Chiang Rai also happens to be the most convenient, right in the town centre! The town centre is home to many markets, restaurants and bars. It’s very lively and safe.

Located only a few minutes walk from the bus station, you won’t even need to take a tuk-tuk! Once there you will find all sorts of accommodation including hostels, budget, mid-range and luxury hotels.

Chiang Rai is the perfect destination for nature and culture lovers. The main attraction in Chiang Rai is Wat Rong Khun, mainly known as the white temple.

This privately owned art exhibit is one of the most beautiful modern temples in the world. If you enjoy it and want more, you can head to Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple).

If you are a foodie, you will love the town centre. Just walk around and let your nose guide you. There is street food everywhere! If you are looking for typical food from the North of Thailand, try a green curry or mango salad. It’s a bit spicy but absolutely delicious!

Finally, Chiang Rai is the perfect starting point to go out and explore the Golden Triangle. It’s highly recommended to go on an organised tour for this activity.

Nowadays, it is safe for tourists to discover this beautiful region, however this is not a place where you’d want to wander off the beaten tracks. Just ask your hotel and they will surely have some options available.

During the tour, you will get to go to the Opium museum, go on a boat ride on the Mekong and enjoy beautiful views where the 3 countries (Thailand, Myanmar and Laos) come together! 

Please note that it gets quite humid there in September. So don’t forget to stay hydrated.

By Pauline from Beeloved City

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Chiang Rai.

15. Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is a fun place to spend September in Asia.

LOCATION:  Koh Phangan

GETTING THERE:  Fly to Koh Samui, take a ferry (shorter, more comfortable, more expensive) OR Fly to Surat Thani, take a longer ferry (longer, less comfortable, cheaper)

WHERE TO STAY:  Seaflower Koh Phangan (mid-range option)

Koh Phangan belongs to one of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand. About 80% of its size is a protected nature reserve, so the lush greenery is not going to be all cut down for development of tourism.

While Koh Phangan became famous for its monthly Full Moon parties, its appeal goes way beyond that. Only the south eastern corner of Koh Phangan gets swamped with Full Mooners; the rest of the island is relaxed and beautiful. 

Koh Phangan features stunning beaches, from small coves to large strips of sand. The beaches are mostly public and easy to reach. Several of them have coral reefs just a few meters from the shore, readily available for snorkelling exploration.

The island has always been highly spiritual, ever since monks started coming here in the 60’s.

Nowadays the spirituality is most visible in the yoga offering, with countless classes, retreats and teacher courses. Sri Thanu in the West of Koh Phangan is the ultimate yoga hotspot. There’s  many diverse things to do in Koh Phangan   too.

The island has some excellent hiking trails, plenty of stylish cafés, there’s street food markets, events and festivals held regularly.

It is a wonderful place to stay for any amount of time. September is one of the best times of year to visit Koh Phangan. The rainy season is only about to start, and the weather is mild with little rain.

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

Vietnam is definitely one of the countries in Asia that I enjoyed immensely. I attribute a large part of that to the food. The delicious Banh mi and let’s not forget the Vietnamese coffee…

I would go back just for that. Would I spend my September in Asia here? Without a doubt!

If you consider spending September in Asia then Mui Ne is definitely the place you want to be.

LOCATION: Mui Ne

GETTING THERE: Mui Ne is about a 5 hour bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City.

WHERE TO STAY: Splurge by staying along the oceanside and beaches at the resorts. Otherwise, there are affordable guesthouses starting at $20 USD per night.

Mui Ne is the perfect spot for a getaway from Ho Chi Minh City. As a coastal area of Phan Thiet city, many visitors go to this sleeper town to relax at the resorts and beaches, visit the sand dunes, and eat fresh seafood.

The top attraction in Mui Ne is to go on a Jeep tour either at sunrise or sunset to see four locations. The white and red sand dunes are lovely to walk through due to its super fine sand and contrasting color. For extra fun, you can rent a metal sheet to slide down the dunes.

The Fairy Stream is another stop where you walk in an ankle-deep clay-coloured stream that leads to a small waterfall. Lastly, you visit the fishing village to see the daily catch of the day. We love the tour and have gone on it several times.

If you want another unique activity to try in Mui Ne, practice your kitesurfing skills. The winds are stronger in this area which are ideal conditions. There are plenty of places along the beach that offer lessons for beginners.

During August, the weather is hot and humid with a high of 90℉ (32℃). Although it’s still considered the rainy season, the rain is off-and-on showers and it’ll last for a short period. You won’t need to worry about rain showers that last for hours.

By Jackie and Justin from Life Of Doing

Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Mui Ne.

Have you traveled in September in Asia? What were your favorite locations? Let us know in the comments below. We would love to add to our list.

Related Articles You May Find Interesting

Looking At Exploring Asia In Other Months? We have a guide for every month of the year. Check them out for inspiration!

*This post contains Affiliate links

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Australasia
• Central America
• North America
• South America
• Buenos Aires
• Mexico City
• New York City
• Rio de Janeiro
• Overwater bungalows
• Cruise tips
• Sightseeing Passes
• Attractions
• Theme parks
• When to visit where
• Backpacker Indexes

Sign up for our monthly Priceoftravel newsletter

11 Best Asia destinations in September of 2023

September is an interesting month for traveling to Asia because many of the most popular destinations are in their monsoon season or at least have heavy rain. Still, you’ll see in the list below that there are plenty of great choices with very good weather for the month. As we finally transition out of the COVID pandemic, most Asian countries are open to tourism, and many have few or no restrictions.

Below you’ll find our list of the best Asian destinations that have good weather in September. You’ll find beaches, islands, big cities, and historical areas on the list. Some of these are just coming out of a scorching summer and September is the first good month since late spring, while others are well suited to wet seasons and they can be great to visit even if you might face a quick afternoon rain storm a few times a week.

Important September 2023 holidays in Asia

• September 2 – National Day in Vietnam
• September 16 – Malaysia Day (major public holiday in Malaysia)

11 Best destinations in Asia for September

Bali, indonesia.

• September avg high: 85F/29C
• September avg low: 76F/24C
• September avg precip: 1.6″/4.0cm

Bali highlights

• Great sandy beaches and very good surfing in many areas around the island
• Amazing temples and monuments, even in some of the popular tourist areas
• Shockingly cheap hotels that have local crafts and designs and are nicer than you expect
• Fascinating Hindu culture and music, with frequent public performances
• Excellent resorts in the quiet and purpose-built Nusa Dua area

Of course Bali is slightly south of the equator, but only slightly so it’s the same temperature pretty much year round. In September you’ll have smaller crowds than in July and August, so it’s really an ideal month for a visit. If you don’t want to be surrounded by young Australian surfers and party-goers, look outside of the Kuta/Legian/Seminyak area.

Bali was hit extremely hard by the pandemic and their tourism industry has still not recovered. The crowds in 2023 are coming back, but hotel prices are still very low as they compete for business. This is a good year to go and help them out at the same time.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $14 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $24 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in September from $5 per person

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Kuta, Bali >>> Bali prices and travel tips

Seoul, South Korea

• September avg high: 78F/26C
• September avg low: 62F/17C
• September avg precip: 5.4″/13.5cm

Seoul highlights

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• K-Star Road and pop culture sights, especially for younger visitors
• Day trip to the DMZ, reserve well in advance
• Amazing and varied food and trendy drinks
• Myeong-dong shopping district

Seoul doesn’t get as much attention as it probably deserves, and part of it is that there are only four months each year with decent weather. September is one of those four, and October is as well, so don’t wait too long to plan your trip here. With the success of many K-pop acts and the Korean food craze gripping the US and Europe, Seoul is suddenly becoming much more popular and deservedly so.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $42 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $84 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in September from $11 per person

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Seoul, South Korea >>> Seoul prices and travel tips

• September avg high: 87F/31C
• September avg precip: 7.0″/17.5cm

Singapore highlights

• Marina Bay Sands Hotel and Casino with its infinity pool on the top deck
• Orchard Road shopping district
• Singapore Flyer Ferris Wheel
• Raffles Hotel, which is gorgeous and home of the Singapore Sling
• Hawker food centers for cheap and excellent local cuisine

Hotels in Singapore are now the most expensive in Asia, but many other things are still quite reasonably priced. Budget travelers should be aware that most of the cheaper hotel room in Singapore are those with no windows at all, and I personally can’t stand those. Food is excellent and surprisingly cheap if you eat at the famous hawker stalls all over the city. Alcohol can be expensive at sit-down places, but you often get a view and atmosphere that makes it very worthwhile.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $121 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $132 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in September from $18 per person

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Singapore >>> Singapore prices and travel tips

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• September avg high: 90F/32C
• September avg low: 74F/23C
• September avg precip: 7.6″/19.0cm

Kuala Lumpur highlights

• Interesting mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures
• Modern business district with elevated and air-conditioned pedestrian bridges
• Surpringly cheap 4-star hotels for a large Asian city
• Excellent food at very good prices, even in the tourist areas
• Impressive temples and cultural sights that are easy to reach

Weather aside, Kuala Lumpur is an amazing city that is the favorite among many seasoned travelers to Asia. The mix of cultures here is fascinating, and the food scene reflects that as well. Better still, Kuala Lumpur is a shockingly cheap city considering how modern and pleasant it is. You can get 4-star or 5-star hotels here for less than you’d pay for a 2-star hotel in Singapore on the same day.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $23 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $44 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in September from $7 per person

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Kuala Lumpur >>> Kuala Lumpur prices and travel tips

Malé, Maldives

• September avg high: 84F/29C
• September avg low: 77F/25C
• September avg precip: 7.8″/19.5cm

Maldives highlights

• Malé itself is tiny and only worth a quick look
• The Maldives has over 80 private-island resorts with water villas
• Turquoise lagoons at most resorts are beyond amazing
• Most islands have sandy beaches all the way around
• Excellent diving, snorkeling and water sports

The main reason any one comes to  the Maldives is that it’s the water villa capital of the world . The cheapest of the water villas starts at around US$300 per night for two people, but you can get an amazing Jacuzzi Water Villa for not much more at a few of the larger resorts.

The Maldives is welcoming to all visitors once again, regardless of COVID or vaccination status. One other great thing about the Maldives is that nearly all visitors will spend almost 100% of their time either outdoors or in their air-conditioned private bedrooms at the hundreds of private-island resorts, so it’s a pretty safe place to holiday regardless.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $92 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $113 for two people

>>> Malé prices and travel tips

Delhi/New Delhi, India

• September avg high: 93F/34C
• September avg precip: 4.7″/11.8cm

Delhi/New Delhi highlights

• Red Fort complex – unmissable
• India Gate and Lotus Temple
• Gateway to Taj Mahal in Agra (better than staying in Agra itself)
• Excellent and cheap street food and restaurant food
• Spice markets and other markets

Delhi has a long list of its own must-see attractions, but if you haven’t heard of those you will still be happy to know that this is where you’ll want to stage your visit to the Taj Mahal from. The Taj is located in the city of Agra and you can do a pleasant day trip there and back if you book on one of the early trains. Agra itself is not one of India’s more charming cities, so it’s best to just visit the Taj and head out again.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $27 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $91 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in September from $10 per person

>>> Delhi/New Delhi prices and travel tips

• September avg low: 75F/24C
• September avg precip: 9.7″/24.3cm

Goa highlights

• Excellent beaches
• Old Goa historic area
• Anjuna Flea Market – Famous hippie market
• Great and cheap Portuguese-inspired cuisine
• Beach parties and some of India’s cheapest alcohol

Goa is an excellent bargain once you get here, and it’s one of the few places in India that alcohol is not only widely available, but also cheap. Many of the towns in Goa are known for their beach parties and dance music. Vagator and Anjuna are the most famous of those, but nearby towns such as Calangute are far more family oriented.

Since this part of India is one where nearly all visitors spend almost all of their time outdoors, it should be a pretty safe place to visit regardless of what is going on in the world.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $39 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $50 for two people

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Goa, India >>> Goa prices and travel tips

Nha Trang, Vietnam

• September avg low: 78F/26C
• September avg precip: 6.1″/15.3cm

Nha Trang highlights

• A long, sandy beach
• Beach massages at very affordable prices
• Long Son Pagoda and Long Son Pagoda
• Po Nagar Cham Towers
• Cheap hotels and excellent Vietnamese and international food

Nha Trang doesn’t offer many cultural sights, although it does have a few. This is really just a place to come to enjoy the warm weather on the beach while paying shockingly low hotel rates. There are even many expat restaurants near the beach for those who easily tire of the excellent Vietnamese food at every other place.

• Good 4-star hotels in September from $25 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in September from $6 per person

>>> Nha Trang prices and travel tips

Beijing, China

• September avg low: 59F/15C
• September avg precip: 1.8″/4.5cm

Beijing highlights

• Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square in the middle of the city
• Nearby sections of the Great Wall are easy to reach by bus or car
• Palace Museum is one of Asia’s finest
• Amazing and highly varied food and drink culture
• Hutongs (ancient alleyways) to see what Beijing used to be like

Those tours of three or more cities do actually come out cheaper than an independent visit in most cases, including the small group tours that limit to no more than 18 people. Either way, Beijing is a travel bargain by international standards, and there are many checklist attractions here and nearby. Here’s how to decide whether to book a China tour or plan it yourself .

As you probably know, China is abandoned its controversial No-COVID policy late in 2022, so it’s open to visitors again. It’s worth doing a bit of research before you travel and you’ll have to get a visa well in advance regardless.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $79 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $85 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in September from $14 per person

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Beijing >>> Beijing prices and travel tips

Shanghai, China

• September avg high: 81F/27C
• September avg low: 69F/21C

Shanghai highlights

• Probably the world’s coolest and most interesting skyline
• The Bund (riverside walk) for river and skyline views
• Observation decks at a few different towers and skyscapers
• Nanjing Road shopping district and the French Concession
• Traditional Chinatown area (seriously)

Shanghai is famously much more modern than Beijing in many ways, so it’s best to visit both of them to get a glimpse of the older China and the newer China at the same time. Some things in Shanghai are a bit more expensive than in Beijing, especially when it comes to hotels, but it’s still cheap by most standards. Check our review of the Go Shanghai Card as a way to probably save money if you are doing the main attractions.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $61 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $77 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in September from $15 per person

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Shanghai >>> Shanghai prices and travel tips

Xi’an, China

• September avg low: 60F/16C
• September avg precip: 3.5″/8.8cm

Xi’an highlights

• Terracotta Warriors tour
• City walls tour or walk
• Drum Tower and Bell Tower, both in the city center
• Great Mosque of Xi’an and cheap street food in Muslim Quarter
• Very reasonable hotels and food

Most things in Xi’an are a bit cheaper than even in Beijing, but the admission to the Terracotta Warriors exhibition is justifiably a bit pricey. China is so large and diverse that it’s ideal to visit different areas on your first trip if you can, and Xi’an is the obvious third choice. By the way, don’t come to Xi’an to experience a smaller town in China, as this place has over 12 million people and it stretches on and on and on.

• Good 3-star hotels in September from $58 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in September from $58 for two people

>>> Check current hotel promotions for Xi’an >>> Xi’an prices and travel tips

OTHER POPULAR POSTS

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Change location

• Call us today from 9am 01993 838 925 01993 838 100 or
• REQUEST A QUOTE

When is the best time to visit Southeast Asia?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Southeast Asia depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. There are some significant climate variations across the region, but rather than limiting possibilities, this makes Southeast Asia a year-round destination with good conditions for exploring throughout the year.

In general, the cool, dry season lasts from November to April across mainland Southeast Asia and the Philippines making this a good time to visit Thailand, Vietnam or Indochina, while Indonesia and Borneo are drier from April to October, and Malaysia offers year-round sun on one coast or the other.

• Make an enquiry
• Request a brochure

Month-by-month guide for travelling in Southeast Asia

Visiting Southeast Asia in January

January is a great time to visit Southeast Asia and is one of the driest months across the northern part of the region, with comfortable temperatures for beach going or more intrepid exploration. Thailand and Malaysia’s west coast beaches are bathed in sunshine, river travel in Vietnam is at its peak, and there are a host of festivals in Myanmar and the Philippines.

Events & Festivals

• Ati-Atihan is the Philippines’ largest festival. It takes place in Kalibo, with street dancing and wild costumes to celebrate an ancient land pact between settlers and indigenous Atis.
• Chinese New Year, Lunar New Year and Naga New Year are celebrated across the region with traditional festivals, drumming and dancing.
• Sinulog is Philippine city Cebu City's biggest annual event, featuring a huge street parade, live music and plenty of food and drink.

Visiting Southeast Asia in February

Pleasant weather across Myanmar makes February a good time to explore the plains, foothills and beaches. High water levels in Tonle Sap and the Mekong make it a good time for river travel in Cambodia, while it’s not too hot for exploring the temples of Angkor. For good-value beach breaks, the west coast of Thailand and Malaysia are good bets.

• Chin National Day (20th February) is a day of celebrating the culture, traditions, history and language of the Chin people in Myanmar. Festivities include traditional bamboo pole dances.
• Tet is the biggest festival of the year in Vietnam, celebrations for the lunar new year can last a week or more and travel may be busier.
• Wat Phou Festival sees Laos’ Buddhists attend a three-day festival in Champasak, taking part in processions, recitals, boat races and dances.

Visiting Southeast Asia in March

It’s shoulder season in Borneo with mostly dry weather, low visitor numbers and promotional rates making it a great time to visit. Thailand and Malaysia are hot and sunny offering the pick of beaches on both coasts, and it’s a great time to visit Halong Bay in Vietnam or Cambodia, but you’ll need to book well in advance.

• Easter brings holy week celebrations in the Philippines, include large-scale religious processions with floats, costumes, masks, food and music.

Visiting Southeast Asia in April

It’s reaching the end of the dry season in Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia and the Philippines, temperatures are rising and visitor number are high. Book well in advance. It’s a good time to go trekking in Borneo and see orangutans, and Indonesia is beginning to dry out with promotional deals making it a good-value destination at this time of year.

• Songkran in Thailand, Thingyan in Myanmar and Lao New Year are celebrated with scented water thrown in the streets and onto passers-by as a cleansing ritual and a sign of goodwill.

Visiting Southeast Asia in May

May is a great time to visit Borneo, Bali, Lombok or the east coast beaches of Thailand and Malaysia. With long hours of sunshine, clear seas for snorkelling and diving, good orangutan viewing and shoulder-season prices, it’s one of our preferred times of year to travel here. Heat and humidity are building in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in advance of the rains.

• Boun Bang Fai, normally held in May or June, is a festival that marks the sixth month of the lunar calendar in Laos with homemade fireworks and rocket competitions.
• Flores de Mayo is a month-long, countrywide religious festival in the Philippines celebrating the coming of the rains. Processions are sometimes held after dark and lit by candles, creating a wonderful ambience.
• Gawai Dayak is an annual harvest festival celebrated by the Dayak people in Sarawak, where it's a public holiday. It's marked by the sharing of food, decorated longhouses and traditional dress.

Visiting Southeast Asia in June

Diving season is at its peak in Tioman, Redang and the Perhentians off Malaysia’s east coast, while Indonesia and Borneo are hot and dry with ripe fruit drawing orangutans to lower branches making forest treks particularly rewarding. June is shoulder season in Thailand and Central Vietnam and a good time to find a hotel deal before the European school holidays begin.

• Chinlone Festival lasts for almost a month. This Mandalay festival sees hundreds of chinlone (cane ball) teams compete in the traditional sport of Myanmar to live music.

Visiting Southeast Asia in July

It’s peak season on Malaysia’s east coast and in Indonesia with great visibility for diving but higher prices and busier resorts. Good orangutan sightings and turtles on the beaches makes Borneo a popular destination. Central Vietnam is hot and sunny and cruising along the Chindwin River in Myanmar is at its peak but the rains make road travel difficult.

• Borneo Cultural Festival is a ten-day annual festival held in Sibu with music performances, contests and plenty of good food.
• Rainforest Music Festival brings renowned world musicians and indigenous musicians of Borneo gather in Kuching to perform, with lectures and workshops for visitors.

Visiting Southeast Asia in August

A great time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit Borneo, the weather is hot and dry in August with turtle hatchlings on the beaches and great trekking but busy hotels. It’s peak season in Indonesia with great weather for temple visits, jungle hikes or relaxing on the beach, and the Malaysian east coast beaches are hot and sunny. Book well in advance.

• Taungbyone Nat Festival is a major gathering place for spiritual mediums in Mandalay. This festival attracts pilgrims and visitors in their thousands to make offerings and enjoy dances and other celebrations in honour of two famous nats (spirits).
• Yadana Gu Nat Festival is an eight-day festival in Amarapura in Myanmar, led by spirit mediums said to be possessed by nats (spirits) during the ceremony. Ritual dances and songs are performed and visitors make offerings of food, flowers and money to the nats.

Visiting Southeast Asia in September

Borneo is fine and dry throughout, so it's still a very appealing time to visit for relaxing on the beach, snorkelling and wildlife watching on Kinabatangan River. The weather in Indonesia also continues to be hot and dry but the summer crowds have eased and prices have dropped making it a great time to visit.

• Borneo International Kite Festival sees hundreds gather at Old Bintulu Airport to fly brightly decorated and complex kites.
• Pchum Ben is an important Buddhist festival marked throughout Cambodia over 15 days, with the main celebrations taking place on the final day as locals pay their respects to deceased relatives.

Visiting Southeast Asia in October

Dry weather begins to return to Laos and Cambodia with the landscape looking particularly lush after the rains. There are few visitors and early season offers make it a good value time to visit. Northern Vietnam is dry and sunny making it a good time to trek in Sapa, and it’s prime season for diving in Sipadan off Borneo.

• Boun Ok Phansa is a boat racing festival celebrated at the end of the rainy season in Laos. Elaborate boats are raced along the Mekong River and various festivities take place on the riverbank in honour of the Naga king.
• Deepavali/Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is celebrated throughout Borneo as families gather to pray and give gifts.

Visiting Southeast Asia in November

Temperatures rise and the weather is dry across Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar marking the start of the high season with rising prices and greater numbers of visitors. It’s a particularly good time to get out on Tonle Sap lake in Cambodia or go river cruising in Laos, but book well in advance.

• Bon Om Touk, the Cambodian water festival and one of the nation's most popular events, is celebrated over three days with concerts and boat races in Phnom Penh.
• That Luang Festival is a three-day religious festival in Vientiane where tens of thousands of monks and pilgrims gather at the That Luang or Grand Stupa bearing wax candles.

Visiting Southeast Asia in December

Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar are hot and dry and at the start of their peak season, book early to avoid disappointment and visit earlier in the month to avoid the most popular times around Christmas when prices rise considerably. It’s also the start of the peak season in the Philippines, though there is still a small risk of cyclones.

Our recommendations for when to visit Southeast Asia

• Not recommended
• Winter season

Southeast Asia trip ideas and travel guides

Essential Vietnam tour

13 days from £3,730pp

Orangutans & islands of Borneo

15 days from £3,440pp

Asia's best city & beach combinations

10 min read

Crossing the border: multi-country trips through Southeast Asia

Traveling Blog

Why It Might Be Worth A Trip To Southeast Asia In September

By Christine Russell Leave a Comment

As summer draws to a close and we start considering getting the coats and scarves back out, it can feel like sunshine and trips to the beach are a lifetime away. You might have accepted that the next six months will be cold and wet – especially because a short trip to a neighboring country won’t be able to offer massive differences in climate to home.

But that doesn’t need to be the case at all. We live in an increasingly global world where travel is easier and cheaper, and many globetrotters are taking advantage by jetting off to Southeast Asia. If you fancy one last dose of summer weather before the nights start closing in, this part of the world is perfect.

In September, most countries in Southeast Asia are at their coolest and driest, and with the height of the tourist season tailing off, it’s the perfect time to pack some sandals and get away – not to mention it’s one of the most budget-friendly parts of the world.

Southeast Asia has plenty of amazing cultures and beaches to choose from – and it’s easy enough to get from one country to the next, with a bit of island-hopping thrown in for good measure along the way, of course.

Get to Singapore for some serious shopping and eating; this tropical city is unlike anywhere else on earth. Take a boat trip to see the stunning islands of Pulau Ubin and take advantage of everything city life has to offer, such as the Universal Studios and some breathtaking architecture, not to mention some seriously high-class dining.

Then, take a short trip to Malaysia, where the rainforest and wildlife will be calling your name. Beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and delicious food. And the food culture is an experience in itself, with seriously affordable hawker stalls on every corner. Do not come away without sampling a delicious nasi lemak – it’s a national favorite.

Then there’s Thailand. This Buddhist country is notorious for having some of the friendliest, most helpful people in the world, but there’s plenty to see, do and eat as well. Visit the temples, chat with the locals, and do not leave without spending time on its white, picture-perfect beaches – some of the most stunning in the entire region.

And then it’s a quick trip over to Vietnam – where the food just gets better and better. Visit the rice paddies, Buddhist pagodas, and bustling cities, and visit Ho Chi Minh City to see its French colonial landmarks and Vietnamese War history museums – an important part of the nation’s rich history.

As with all the best holiday destinations, the only real downside of traveling to Southeast Asia in September is having to come back again. But if you find yourself pining for the amazing cuisine you sampled on your travels – worry not. Y ou can find the next best thing in the UK with Vietnamese in Oxford at Banana Tree, serving authentic Southeast Asian Cuisine – like their delicious aromatic pho and Banana Tree laksa.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Recent Posts

• The Secrets of the Nile Unveiled: Unforgettable Adventures on a River Cruise
• Jodean Bottom: Who Is She? Wiki/Bio, Family, Height, Profession, And Wealth
• Webinarach: What is it? Specifics Synopsis
• Summer in Edinburgh: 10 Perfect Experiences
• How To Get A Visa To Go To Greece From The UK

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Weather & when to go: September

Our best destinations in september, south korea.

The worst of the summer rains disappear towards the tail-end of September and autumnal colours start to paint a very pretty picture in the countryside. September, however, is still by and large a rainy month and the temperatures can remain very high, nudging towards a maximum of 30°C. You should expect more than a few downpours and the high levels of humidity may still feel uncomfortable...

The views in Tibet are never less than awe-inspiring, but the autumnal colours of September really give them another dimension. Harvest season arrives with the Ongkor Festival, and despite the chill in the air, the days are still quite warm, especially in areas of low elevation such as Lhasa. Trekking around mountains and lakes is breathtakingly scenic, and a lot easier now the rains are easing up...

Dry season continues throughout Borneo during September, with dry, sunny days the order of the day, although there is an increased chance of rainfall, especially as the month progresses.  

We love shoulder season in Indonesia, the promise of good weather and lower footfall. The western and central islands such as Bali, Lombok and Java are still expecting good weather and the eastern islands are improving fast

Also expecting good weather conditions in September

Visiting Bhutan in September can be a great idea, especially towards the end of the month when the monsoons are drawing to a close and clearer skies can be expected. Cultural and Buddhist festivals are taking place across the country as Bhutan’s peak season begins. This is also a good time of year for trekking in the mountains, with pleasant weather, mild temperatures and visibility much improved.

Visit Nepal in September and you should have a great trip, especially towards the end of the month. By then the monsoon is properly over, the skies are bright and temperatures have cooled down - typically in the mid-20s. It's harvest time and the hillsides are green. Trekking is good, particularly as the days get drier with excellent visibility and ideal temperatures...

September in Cambodia tends to be wet and warm with high levels of rainfall and average temperatures of 26°C. When it rains it is usually for a few hours rather than all-day downpours, although these can also happen. It's a great month to travel to Cambodia if you're keen to avoid the crowds and are happy to take your chance with rainfall.

Destinations with mixed weather conditions in September

Across Sri Lanka cyclones can occur, especially towards the end of September and into October and November, bringing with them heavy rain and high winds. Head to the east coast for a chance of the best weather…

In September rainfall reaches peak levels throughout Laos with temperatures dropping and the length and severity of rain showers increasing, even in Luang Prabang and Vientiane. Travel to the more remote regions of the country is difficult at times although road conditions have generally been greatly improved in recent years. Towards the end of the month as the rains start to subside, the countryside starts to look at its best, whilst rivers and waterfalls are at their most impressive. Rain will decrease as we move towards the dry season...

Destinations expecting poor weather conditions in September

Country-wide, September is usually the wettest month of the year in Thailand with all corners of the country receiving rain in varying amounts. Thunder storms are not unusual as the humidity reaches its peak. Temperatures continue to decline throughout the month (avg temp: 25 - 29°C). Beach conditions are generally poor with very heavy rains to the west and increasingly heavy rains on the east of the peninsular. If you feel lucky then Hua Hin and nearby beaches are likely to offer the best beach conditions across the country...

Wet weather is on the increase in central Vietnam where, towards the end of September in particular, rain is expected to become more frequent. Conditions in the north and south start to move in the opposite direction

September is always a tricky month to offer sage advice due to mixed weather however it’s not all bad. Whilst rains remain high across much of the country, the north and Rajasthan offer the best conditions…

September is one of the hottest and wettest months of the year in some parts of Japan, making it an unfavourable month to visit.

September is a transitional month in peninsula Malaysia. The south-east monsoon and its afternoon downpours start to decline on the west coast; whilst over on the east coast the winds of the north-east monsoon begin to blow, bringing rougher sea conditions and a slight drop in temperature, although rainfall is minimal.

Another month of change in Myanmar, as the rainfall starts to subside and temperatures also drop, although they remain in the high 20s and even low 30s°C. September is a class 60/40 month, with a more than average chance of good weather. However if the monsoon winds continue later than expected it can still be wet, especially in the early stages of the month.

MyFunkyTravel

Backpacking | Budget Travel | Living Abroad

When to Go to Southeast Asia – Best and Worst Times to Visit

Planning a backpacking trip in any reasonably large region can be quite a headache, particularly when it comes to judging the optimum times to visit the destinations you have in mind. A region like Southeast Asia has some fairly large climatic variations as you move around. Therefore whatever time of year you pick, you’d have to be seriously lucky to avoid bad weather altogether. This article though should help you determine the best time to visit Southeast Asia, although that answer may be different depending on what your priorities are.

Table of Contents

January & february, march & april, may & june, july & august, september & october, november & december, best time to visit thailand (south), worst time to visit thailand (south), best time to visit mainland southeast asia (northern thailand, laos, cambodia, vietnam), worst time to visit mainland southeast asia (northern thailand, laos, cambodia, vietnam), best time to visit bali (& around), worst time to visit bali (& around), southeast asia’s best festivals, backpacking southeast asia – best time to go, southeast asia climate.

The year starts at the very peak of the tourist season in Southeast Asia. Mainland SE Asia and the Philippines are mostly warm and dry but temperatures aren’t as scorching as at other times in the year. The January rains fall further south with the East Coast of Malaysia (mainland) and much of Indonesia experiencing heavy rain at this time. That situation generally continues into February although the Malaysian rains have eased by the end of the month.

Mainland Southeast Asia continues to be mostly dry heading into March but the heat is becoming noticeably more intense. Indonesia’s most popular travel regions meanwhile are approaching the end of their rainy seasons. By April, much of Southeast Asia is now as hot as it is all year making travelling and sightseeing a sweaty pursuit. You can though find some respite in more Northern regions. Hanoi for example is a tolerable 28°C and experiences more of a typical Northern Hemisphere climate with clearer winter and summer patterns, not that it ever gets seriously cold.

The heat remains intense in May in most of the mainland and the Philippines making the start of the monsoon season a somewhat welcome relief in June. Most of the rainfall at this time comes in the form of a short, sharp downpour. By the end of June, Bali is pretty dry and marginally cooler than earlier in the year making it a popular time to visit.

The rainy season in most of Southeast Asia becomes more intense in July but there are exceptions. Koh Tao and Koh Phangan for example are more likely to escape the worst of the rainfall at this time. By August, afternoon showers are more the norm again although you can still expect the odd total washout when travelling around the region, which can be a slow and miserable experience on the wettest days. Indonesia is a better place to be around August and September.

Bangkok experiences its wettest month of the year in September and flooding is not uncommon in much of Thailand, Cambodia and Laos at this time while typhoons can sometimes wreak havoc in Vietnam and the Philippines. The situation continues into October but has generally eased considerably by the end of the month.

By November the rainy season is more or less over in most mainland areas and most of the region is green but dry with temperatures cooling down, particularly at night in the North or in raised areas. The rains though have returned to the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia (spreading into Southeastern Thailand) and much of Indonesia and remain until into the New Year. December marks the start of what is considered ‘peak season’ in Southeast Asia with warm, dry conditions awaiting the masses of visitors that come over the Christmas and New Year period.

Worst & Best Time to Visit Southeast Asia – Main Destinations

In purely weather terms, there are a few simple rules of thumb to follow in determining when to visit Southeast Asia but the situation isn’t the same across the board so you will need to decide upon your priorities.

Southern Thailand stays hot throughout the year with maximum temperatures ranging from 30 to 35°C on the Andaman side (Krabi, Phuket, Phi Phi) and a fraction cooler 29 to 33°C on the islands in the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui). Any day of the year can provide great beach weather but you stand the best chance of avoiding the rains between December and March on the Andaman coast while February to April are the best months in the Gulf of Thailand with fewer than 10 days per month seeing any wet weather.

The Andaman coast sees plenty of rain between May and November with September and October the wettest months. The monsoon seasons picks up slightly later in the Gulf of Thailand with November perhaps the worst time to visit Koh Phangan or Koh Samui as the rains are absolutely torrential then but they have eased considerably by the end of the year.

For a typical loop of Southeast Asia, loosely speaking November to February would be a decent time to aim for with December and January offering the best conditions with the odd exception. This is because this is generally the driest part of the year and temperatures are still warm but a fraction cooler than they are at other times.

May to September is the period when you will probably experience the most rain on an extended trip across Southeast Asia. However in general, March to May are the hottest months when sightseeing and getting around can be quite uncomfortable everywhere apart from the Northernmost cities such as Hanoi.

Bali, the Gilis and the island of Lombok form the core of most backpacking routes in Indonesia . The equatorial proximity ensures it is hot throughout the year so beating the rain is the main goal. August is almost certainly the best month to visit Bali weather-wise with barely any rain but any time between July and September should guarantee sunny, dry conditions with very few exceptions.

From December to mid-March, Bali and neighbouring islands in Indonesia experience their rainy season, which peaks in January.

Songkran by Chindit76 , CC BY 2.0

While climatic considerations are clearly important, anyone travelling in Southeast Asia for a couple of months or more will also want to consider what festivals they could take in.

January Aguman Sanduk – Cross-dressing New year festivities in the Philippines. Dinagyang – Street parades and parties in the Philippines. Thaipusam – Hindu festival in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

February Chinese New Year – Celebrated across the region, particularly in Northern Vietnam. Tet – Vietnamese New Year. A time to settle old scores and debts.

March Nyepi – A one day festival of silence in Bali. A surreal experience as literally everything shuts down and everyone shuts up.

March/April Easter – Big deal in the Philippines with people volunteering to crucify themselves in San Fernando!

April Songkran – Splishy, splashy fun. This is Thailand’s big water fight!

May/June Boun Bang Fai Rocket Festival – People in Laos make rockets and fire them into the sky with varying degrees of success.

September/October Phuket Vegetarian Festival – Gruesome methods to rid the body of evil spirits.

October/November Loy Krathong – Thousands of lanterns illuminate the sky in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

November Bon Om Tuk – A water festival in Cambodia featuring dragon boat races to celebrate the end of the rainy season.

Once a Month Full Moon Parties – The world’s biggest beach party once a month in Koh Phangan and at Christmas and New Year. Worth considering how to time this into your trip if it’s a big priority.

Like anyone else, backpackers will certainly want to consider the weather and what festivals there are when it comes to visiting Southeast Asia. However travelling away from the peak tourist season (December & January in Southern Thailand, August in Bali) should lead to a cheaper trip as accommodation is more plentiful and prices fall. With an increasing influx of Chinese visitors, Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destinations are only likely to become ever more crowded in the coming years. As a result, there’s certainly a strong argument to be made for backpacking in Southeast Asia away from the very peak periods.

If you can tolerate heat, February to May is a pretty good time to travel around Southeast Asia with mostly dry conditions and some of the best festivals such as the Chinese and Vietnamese New Years as well as Songkran. If it all gets too hot then you can always just head to the islands of Southern Thailand, which have great weather at this time of year but are just past their peak tourist seasons.

For those wanting to avoid the hottest of the weather as well as the crowds then October to November is a decent plan for a backpacking trip around mainland Southeast Asia. You will most likely encounter some torrential downpours and the odd washout still but the rain shouldn’t be so intense that it will ruin your trip.

Indonesia is much less touristy on the whole so the crowds are less of a factor there and you can mostly base your decision on the climate. That said, you will get better deals in Bali if you visit away from August when it is at its busiest.

This article was published in December 2018.

Comments/thoughts welcome below!

Featured Image of Bali , CC BY-ND 2.0

2 thoughts on “ When to Go to Southeast Asia – Best and Worst Times to Visit ”

That was so helpful. Thanks!

You’re very welcome 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Policy

• Disclosure Policy
• Travel Tips
• 109 Genius Travel Hacks
• Teach Abroad
• Work With Us

Asia Guides

The most amazing 3 month southeast asia itinerary.

If you’re thinking of going on a backpacking adventure, Southeast Asia is a great choice. In fact, this fascinating region is a very popular choice for first-time backpackers, as well as avid adventurers. Coupled with the low cost of travel, incredible activities, and sights to offer everyone, you can’t go wrong. This sub-region boasts out of this world scenery, unique cultures, mouth-watering food, buzzin’ metropolitan cities, and heavenly tropical beaches. So, without further ado, let’s dive right into this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. We cover a whopping 8 countries, recommend the best route to take, how long to spend in each place, the must-see attractions, and give recommendations of where to stay.

Disclosure: Untold Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Northern Thailand (13 days)

Bangkok (3 days).

This Southeast Asia travel route starts in the heart of Thailand; Bangkok.

How to get to Bangkok: This itinerary kicks off in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. Bangkok boasts a large international airport, making it super easy and convenient for tourists to find cheap flights from places such as Europe or the USA. We recommend checking Skyscanner for the best deals and prices.

Top attractions:

The Grand Palace Wat Arun Shopping at Chatuchak Market Party on Khao San Road Taling Chan Floating Market Wat Samphan Temple (Pink Dragon)

Where to stay in Bangkok: Comfy Bed Hostel for a dorm, or Amarin Inn for a budget private room.

Ayutthaya (2 days)

How to get to Ayutthaya: 2-hour minivan from Moh Chit BTS Station in Bangkok. The cost is 50 Baht ($1.65). Or take a tour from Bangkok .

Ancient town Cycle ride around the temple complex

Where to stay in Ayutthaya: A cute boathouse with cheap double rooms, Ayutthaya Riverside House.

Chiang Mai (3 days)

How to get to Chiang Mai: A comfy 9-hour VIP bus for $24.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple Take a Thai cooking class Doi Inthanon National Park Eat at the night markets or take a food course and tour Go water crazy at the Songkran festival (April)

Where to stay in Chiang Mai: Red Brick Guesthouse for a dorm room

Pai ( 3 days)

How to get to Pai: Take a 3 hours mini-van ride for $6

Explore on a scooter Pai Canyon Pam Bok Waterfall Love Strawberry Farm Land Split Bamboo Bridge

Where to stay in Pai: Pai Loess Resort for a private double room

Chiang Rai ( 2 days)

How to get to Chiang Rai: 7.5 hours mini-van journey , costing $18

White Temple Black House Tea plantations Golden Triangle House of opium

Where to stay in Chiang Rai: Busket Hostel for a cheap modern dorm

For a more detailed Thailand backpacking guide, don’t miss this post!

Laos (8 days)

Luang prabang (3 days).

How to get to Luang Prabang: 2-day slow boat from Chiang Rai

Kuang Si Waterfalls Watch the morning Tak Bat Phousi Hill & Temple Night market Late-night bowling alley

Where to stay in Luang Prabang: Sok Dee Guesthouse for a cheap cosy double room

Vang Vieng (3 days)

How to get to Vang Vieng: 5-hour mini-van ride for $16

Tubing on the Nam Song River Blue Lagoon Phu Kham Cave

Where to stay in Vang Vieng: Faraway Suites for either a dorm room or a private room

Vientiane (2 days)

How to get to Vientiane: 4-hour bus that costs $9

Explore the city by bicycle Buddha Park COPE Museum

Where to stay in Vientiane: My Box Hostel & Cafe , great value for money dorm rooms

Don’t forget to check out our ultimate 2-week Laos itinerary here!

Vietnam (20 days)

Hanoi (3 days).

How to get to Hanoi: 22-hour sleeper bus that costs $32. This is a super long journey so you may prefer to fly instead.

Hoan Kiem Lake St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hoa Lo Prison Train Street Take a food tour Bia Hoi Street Hanoi Night Market Drink egg coffee at the Note Coffee shop

Where to stay in Hanoi: Nexy Hostel for a super clean, modern dorm

For more things to do in Hanoi at night, don’t miss this post!

Ha Long Bay (2 days)

How to get to Ha Long Bay: Scheduled tour from Hanoi

Limestone islands Kayaking

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: On the boat.

Sapa (3 days)

How to get to Sapa: 6-hour bus for $12

Ride the Fansipan cable car Go on a trek through the rice terraces Meet H’Mong tribes Drink at the H’Mong Sisters

Where to stay in Sapa: Sapa Village Hotel for a modern stay overlooking the mountains

Ninh Binh (2 days)

How to get to Ninh Binh: 9-hour bus for $17

Cycle through rice paddies Eat at Chookies Hang Mua Caves Tang An boat ride Bich Dong Pagoda

Where to stay in Ninh Binh: Amira Homestay for a cosy stay & free bicycle rental

Hue (2 days)

How to get to Hue: 11-hour bus for $14

Old Citadel Abandoned water park Thien Mu Pagoda

Where to stay in Hue: Bon Ami Hostel  for cheap private rooms in a central location

Hoi An (4 days)

How to get to Hoi An: Ride the Hai Van Pass

Cycle around the old town Take a boat ride Shop for lanterns Stroll around the rice paddies Go shopping for lanterns Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills Eat Cao Lao noodles

Where to stay in Hoi An: The Serendipity Hostel for a dorm bed, or Aroma Homestay & Spa for a budget private room.

For a more detailed Hoi An guide, click here!

Dalat (3 days)

How to get to Dalat: 14-hour sleeper bus for $17

Drive around the mountains on a scooter Sip coffee by the romantic lake Go canyoning Crazy House The Clay Tunnel Eat Dalat Pizza

Where to stay in Dalat: Dalat Backpackers Hostel for a social dorm or private room, or Original Kens Backpacker Hostel for a more relaxed vibe

Don’t miss this amazing detailed Dalat itinerary !

Ho Chi Minh City (3 days)

How to get to Ho Chi Minh City: 7-hour bus for $22

Bui Vien drinking street Ben Thanh Market Saigon Notre Dame & Post Office War Remnants Museum Bitexco Tower Half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels Day trip to the Mekong Delta

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: Galaxy Capsule Hotel for a modern stay in the heart of the city

For a more detailed Vietnam itinerary, make sure to check out this awesome 3-week in Vietnam itinerary. Or, click here for a super detailed Vietnam travel guide .

Cambodia (9 days)

Phnom penh (2 days).

How to get to Phnom Penh: 6-hour bus for $12

The Killing Fields S21 Prison Royal Palace Silk tour at Angkor Artisans

Where to stay in Phnom Penh: Golden Boat 72 Guesthouse for a cheap, quiet retreat

Kampot (3 days)

How to get to Kampot: 3.5-hour mini-van for $9

Ride a scooter up Bokor Mountain Abandoned casino Kep fishing town Pepper farm Fireflies boat tour

Where to stay in Kampot: Marany Guesthouse for a private double room

Siem Reap (4 days)

How to get to Siem Reap: Take a bus back to Phnom Penh , which takes 3.5 hours and costs $9. You can either stay one night in Phnom Penh or if you leave early enough, take another direct minivan from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap . It takes 6 hours and costs $10.

Take a tuk-tuk tour of Angkor Wat and the other ancient temples Siem Reap Silk Farm Pub Street

Where to stay in Siem Reap: Pub Hostel for a social vibe with choices of dorms or private rooms

If you need a more in-depth itinerary for Cambodia, don’t forget to check out our backpacking Cambodia guide! Also, don’t forget to check if a Cambodia visa on arrival is available for your nationality or not.

Southern Thailand (10 days)

Bangkok (1 day).

How to get to Bangkok: 9-hour bus for $24

Koh Phangan (4 days)

How to get to Koh Phangan: From Bangkok, you will need to take an overnight bus and ferry. You can read in more detail about the trip here.

Thong Sala Night Market Phaeng Waterfall Paradise Waterfall Lazy beach days Explore by scooter

Where to stay in Koh Phangan: Backpackers Hacienda for a cheap stay with a pool overlooking the beach

Krabi (3 days)

How to get to Krabi: 6-hour high-speed ferry and bus that costs $18

Railay Beach Tonsai Beach Tiger Temple Emerald Pool

Where to stay in Krabi: J Hotel for a cheap double room with balconies overlooking the sea

Phuket (2 days)

How to get to Phuket: 3-hour mini-van costing $15

Beach days Bangala Road

Where to stay in Phuket: Bed Hostel for a social atmosphere and a choice of a dorm bed or private twin room

Malaysia (14 days)

Penang (5 days).

How to get to Penang: Take a direct flight from Phuket

Ride a bicycle around the street art Drink beer at the Elbow Corner Eat Wan Tan Mee Chew Jetty Kek Lo Si Temple Kapitan Keling Mosque

Where to stay in Penang: Rainbow House for a quiet stay, or Drippin’ Dragon Hostel for a social vibe & pool.

For a more detailed post on things to do in Penang at night , make sure to check out this awesome post!

Cameron Highlands (3 days)

How to get to Cameron Highlands: 4.5-hour bus for $10

Tea plantations Strawberry farm Parks

Where to stay in Cameron Highlands: Traveller Bunker Hostel for a range of dorms & a lively atmosphere

Kuala Lumpur (4 days)

How to get to Kuala Lumpur: 4.5-hour bus for $11

Petronas Towers KLCC Park China Town Little India Merdeka Square National Mosque Bukit Bintang

Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur: Big M Hotel for affordable, modern private rooms, or Dorms KL 2 for cheap but super clean dorm beds.

If you only have 2 days spare for Kuala Lumpur, make sure to check out this ultimate Kuala Lumpur itinerary!

Melaka(2 days)

How to get to Melaka: 2-hour bus for $5

UNESCO town Dutch Square Ride a funky tri-shaw Hang out at the mall

Where to stay in Melaka: The Pillohouzzze for dorms and private rooms

For a more detailed itinerary, make sure to check out our backpacking Malaysia post!

Singapore (2 days)

How to get to Singapore: 4-hour bus for $8

Marina Bay Sands Gardens by the Bay Little India China Town Sentosa Island Universal Studios

Where to stay in Singapore: OSS Backpackers Hostel for a dorm bed, or Hotel Classic by Venue for a cheap double room

Click here for a more detailed Singapore itinerary!

Indonesia (9 days)

Yogyakarta (4 days).

How to get to Yogyakarta: Fly from either Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. If you choose to fly from Kuala Lumpur, you can take a direct 5-hour bus for $17 from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur.

Borobudur Temple Prambanan Temple Malioboro Market Taman Sari Rent a motorbike & ride in the mountains Eat gudeg

Where to stay in Yogyakarta: The Journey Hotel for budget stylish private rooms

You can read our full Yogyakarta itinerary here!

Bali (5 days)

How to get to Bali: Take a flight from Yogyakarta

Visit the rice terraces Relax on the beaches Explore waterfall after waterfall Go temple hopping Snorkelling on Gili T Party in Kuta

Where to stay in Bali: Grandmas Hotel for a cheap relaxing stay

Read a more detailed Indonesia itinerary here!

Myanmar (11 days)

Yangon( 2 days).

How to get to Yangon: Take a flight from Bali

Shwedagon Pagoda Ride the circular train Eat on 19th Street Watch a movie with the locals

Where to stay in Yangon: Agga Youth Hostel is one of the few properties that offer dorm beds. They also have private rooms too.

Bagan (3 days)

How to get to Bagan: Take a 10-hour night bus for $10

Watch sunrise and sunset over the thousands of ancient temples Get around by electric motorbike Jasmine Lacquer Ware Factory

Where to stay in Bagan: Shwe Na Di Guesthouse for a cheap homely guest house

Mandalay (2 days)

How to get to Mandalay: Take a 5.5-hour bus for $6

Mandalay Hill U Bein Bridge Hsinbyume Pagoda Old British Fort Watch the local football team, Yadanarbon

Where to stay in Mandalay: Hotel 82 for a cheap but heavenly stay

Inle Lake (4 days)

How to get to Inle Lake: 9-hour bus for $12

Take a tour of In le Lake Marvel at the floating villages Visit a silverware factory Visit a boat-making factory Explore the village by bicycle

Where to stay in Inle Lake: Silver Lake Hotel for a private double room

Don’t miss our ultimate Myanmar backpacking guide!

Your 3 month Southeast Asia travel route has come to an end

Phew! What an epic 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary . From Inle Lake, you can take a bus back to Yangon. From Yangon, you can either try to find cheap flights back home. However, we recommend heading back to Bangkok to fly from there, as international flights tend to be much cheaper.

How much does it cost to travel to Southeast Asia for 3 months?

This is a hotly debated topic among backpackers. One would proudly announce you can get by on as little as $15 a day, and one would argue that you would easily need $50. The truth is, is everyone is different, and so is their travel style. However, we won’t leave you hangin’. We will give you our recommendation on how much to budget for this 3-month Southeast Asia itinerary. Just remember, your travel style could be totally different from ours, so take this with a pinch of salt and judge your budget according to your preferences.

Our 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary budget

From our previous travels in Southeast Asia and living in Vietnam for 4 years, we would personally budget $50 per day for the two of us. Clean modern dorm rooms average $7 per night, whilst private double rooms average $12. Furthermore, local food in this region is super cheap and convenient, with almost every city and town serving up the most delicious meals from a cart on the market or the side of the road. You can easily eat three square meals a day for less than $10. In terms of activities, if you plan, you can do lots of exciting things for free. Most of the time, there is no need to pre-book tours! Getting around is made easy too, with plenty of scooter rentals, and motorbike taxi apps such as Grab.

Additional costs to consider

Further to your daily budget for your Southeast Asia trip, you will need to factor in the cost of flights and any visas you may need. Again, this is just our personal opinion of how much a reasonable budget for this itinerary is. If you want to go out partying every night, tuck into Western food, or sit back and relax in the comfort of air-conditioned taxis, you will, of course, need to increase your budget.

Looking for what to pack? Check out this essential Southeast Asia packing list !

Essential resources for this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Travel Insurance – No matter whether you’re travelling around Asia for 3 months or just a week, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . Bookaway offers multiple forms of transport, from buses, mini-vans, trains, and ferries. The routes on offer are extensive and certainly cover most of the backpacker trails. Bookaway works a little like Skyscanner but for overland transport. You will find plenty of transport options from a range of companies. All you simply need to do is book online and receive your ticket by email. The email will contain essential information, such as where the bus leaves from and departure and arrival times.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

Like this post? Pin it!

2 thoughts on “ The Most Amazing 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary ”

That s a great summary of your trip! How long did it take by boat to get to Luang Prabang? and similarly how long did it take to get to Hoi An? I d love to know the time it took with public transportation ??

Hi, Thanks for the comment. The slow boat to Luang Prabang takes 2 days. We have an entire post on it 🙂 check it out.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 10 Places To Visit In September In Asia On A Long Vacation In 2024

23 Mar 2023

September is the time when the rains are about to end and winter is about to come, and in some parts, it’s still summer. This month is undoubtedly the favourite holiday month for many. Because this is not a peak holiday season, meaning prices of everything is low and there are not many crowds. Here are 10 of the best places to visit in Asia in September .

Top 10 Places To Visit In September In Asia

Here are some of the most popular places to visit in September in Asia for enjoying the unique experiences offered by each:

1. Bali, Indonesia 2. Beijing, China 3. Goa, India 4. Seoul, South Korea 5. Jaffna And Trincomalee, Sri Lanka 6. Singapore 7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 8. Japan 9. Nepal 10. Hong Kong

1. Bali, Indonesia

Image Source

During the month of September, Bali experiences dry weather because of its northern hemisphere location. The skies stop raining. The days are sunny with very little breeze. The average temperature is between 24 to 29 degree Celsius. You can experience the best of Bali this month, because of the favourable weather and less crowds. This time is the best time to visit its beaches for activities like surfing, swimming, snorkelling, etc. or to just sit and relax. When you are not visiting a temple, enjoying activities at a beach or sightseeing, you can entertain yourself with the various events lined-up in September. There is Soundrenaline, one of the biggest musical events in Indonesia, a cultural Lovina Beach Festival, an International Film Festival BALINALE, etc.

Places To Visit In Bali in September: Dreamland, Kuta Beach, Jimbaran, Bingin Beach, Batu Bolong Beach, Nusa Dua, Padangbai Blue Lagoon, and White Sand Beach are some of the famous beaches in Bali. Also, don’t miss on its rich shrines and temples, one of them being Tanah Lot that is situated near the sea. The stunning location of the temple means you get to enjoy a marvellous view of the setting sun, too

Must Read: 24 Best International Trips Under 50k For Your Bucket List!

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Beijing, China

China is one of the top destinations to visit in Asia in September. Include Beijing, Shanghai and Xi’an in your itinerary when visiting China to have the most out of your September trip. All the three cities enjoy pleasantly warm and cool weather in the day and night. Beijing has an average temperature of 15 to 26 degree Celsius. Shanghai’s is anywhere between 21 to 27 degree Celsius and the average high and low temperature of Xi’an is 26 and 16 degree Celsius.

Shanghai will make your dream of riding a boat on a river surrounded by houses come true. Zhujiajiao, its famous water town, is a must visit place. Also, enjoy a walk on the Bund and visit Shanghai Tower. Xi’an offers an excellent opportunity for an enthralling and adventurous trek up Mount Hua Shan during September. Other popular attractions include Xian City Wall, Terracotta Warriors and Horse Museum, Forest of Stone Steles, etc.

Places To Visit In Beijing In September: Beijing is home to historical places such as the Great Wall of China, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace and the Forbidden City.

Suggested Read: Make Note Of These 10 Tips To Follow Before Planning An International Trip From India!

3. Goa, India

When you are in the mood for some party by the beach, exploration of culturally rich structures, and admiring natural beauty, Goa is your destination. It enjoys sunny and mildly warm weather with light showers during September. The average weather is anywhere between 24 to 29 degree Celsius. If you are visiting Goa around the time of Ganesh Chaturthi, you can join in the grand celebrations with parades accompanied by singing and dancing. Around the end of September, Goa holds World Tourism Day. This festival sees competitions, performances and exhibitions based on a theme.

Places To Visit In Goa In September: Dudhsagar, Todo Waterfalls and Arvalem Waterfalls should be your first destination when in Goa in September. The waterfalls are something else in the month with their waters gushing with joy and beauty after the rain. Enjoy trekking up to these waterfalls and a dip in their pools. Interested in viewing and identifying native and exotic herbs, flowers, fruits, etc.? September offers the best time to enjoy a guided tour through spice plantations with the added advantage of riding on an elephant afterwards! The off season means you will find less people idling around the beaches, so you can expect complete relaxation and solitude at the beaches.

Suggested Read: International Destinations On Diwali Weekend: 10 Places That Can Light Up Your Holidays

4. Seoul, South Korea

With an average low and high temperature of 17 degree and 26 degree Celsius, Seoul in South Korea is one of the best places in Asia to visit in the month of September. Though it gets some amount of rain, it doesn’t hamper your enjoyment of the place. In fact, September is one of the best months to visit this beautiful yet unexplored place.

Places To Visit In Seoul In September: Enjoy the spectacular view of the city’s skyline surrounded by hills and Han river from N Seoul Tower. Visit the mesmerising Changdeokgung Palace with its majestic gardens. Enjoy hiking the old city walls and a mesmerising view from Inwangsan Peak. Enjoy a light show at Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Suggested Read: Toronto International Film Festival Includes The Likes Of Meryl Streep & More

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Ramya Narrates The Story Of 6 Girls On An Extraordinary Trip To Thailand

Bangkok. Phi Phi. Krabi. Why should guys have all the fun?

Sandeep Illustrates On The Best Activities For A Family Trip To Mauritius

Water sports. Cocktail parties. And unlimited fun at Casela.

Nisarg Can't Stop Praising His Honeymoon Trip To Maldives

There was snorkeling, sightseeing, luxury, comfort, & much more!

Sabyacsachi's Romantic Trip Proves Europe To Be The Mother Of All Vacations

For Art, Culture, Luxury, & more...

Srishti Talks Of Her Amazing Trip To Singapore With Her Mother & Niece

A fun-filled destination for ages indeed!

67-Year Old Sridhar Tells How He Beat The Odds & Took A Solo Trip To Dubai

Desert safari. Burj Khalifa. Welcoming locals. Tell me more!

Not Adventure Lovers? Saurabh's Family Trip Proves Hong Kong To Still Be Full Of Fun

Your kids will love Disney Land & Ocean Park!

Ravi's Tale Of A Sri Lanka Family Tour Is All You Need To Know About Ramayana Tour

For the love of Ramayana & Travel!

5. Jaffna And Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a place of many wonders, and Jaffna and Trincomalee offer you the best of the country in the month of September. Though there is moderate rain in Sri Lanka in September, there are plenty of places to visit without drenching your mood and plans. Head to the unique Jaffna with a strong historical influence having a number of must see temples and a library. The Sri Lankan culture showcasing Binara Poya festival, Colombo International Book Fair, FACETS a gem and jewellery show are some of the must attend festivals and events that take place in Sri Lanka in September.

Places To Visit In Jaffna And Trincomalee In September: Jaffna library is one of the biggest libraries in the entire Asia and a must visit. Trincomalee is a beautiful coastal town with its many beaches and temples. Enjoy a quiet time at Nilaveli Beach, Trincomalee Beach, etc. Visit the old fort built by Portuguese called Fort Frederik, enjoy Trincomalee bay view at the Koneswaram Temple, etc.

Suggested Read: 6 Places To Visit In Asia In November: An Escape From The Snow Into The Tropics

6. Singapore

September makes Singapore ideal for a holiday as it is neither too rainy nor too hot. The weather is somewhere in between and when the sun becomes too hot or rains come down heavily, you can expect to escape them through the city’s well-planned infrastructure. The temperature varies from 24 to 31 degree Celsius. Some of the major festivals that take place this month in Singapore include Singapore Grand Prix, Mid-Autumn Festival and Lantern Festival.

Places To Visit In Singapore In September: Take a leisurely stroll at the Gardens by the Bay, enjoy till your heart’s content at the Universal Studios, get enthralled at the Singapore Zoo trip, enjoy a fun cable car ride, take a unique river safari, etc.

Suggested Read: The Great Niah National Park Guide: The Birthplace Of Civilization In Southeast Asia

7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is hot and humid most times of the year. The average temperature of the city in September is between 23 to 32 degree Celsius. But like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur is well built with tunnels and AC walkways, allowing you to comfortably move from place to place.

Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur In September: Enjoy the attractive view of the city from Petronas Twin Towers, visit National Zoo housing hundreds of amphibians, mammals, birds and reptiles, visit the historical Merdeka Square etc.

Suggested Read: Here’s Why The Cleanest Village In Asia, Mawlynnong Deserves More Tourists

The entire Japan welcomes you with its colourful wide arms during its autumn month of September. The country takes a respite from the sweltering heat and blooms in cool and vibrant Koyo, meaning autumn in Japanese. Ultra Japan is the biggest music festival with the world’s biggest Djs enthralling you with their music. Other important festivals include Kitazawa Hachiman Festival, Karasu-zumo, Choyo no Sechi-e Festival, etc.

Places To Visit In Japan In September: Because of the autumn month, Rikugien Garden in Tokyo is the right place to start your Japan tour. The garden throbs with dense trees, flowers, etc. The evening and night are especially more beautiful with the sunset and an annual illumination event adding vivid shades to the place. Other places that are a must visit in Japan in September include Mt Takao, Hachioji, Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido, Oze National Park, Nikko, Tochigi, Lake Towada, Tohoku Iya Valley, Tokushima, etc.

Suggested Read: 36 Best Places To Visit In Southeast Asia That Won’t Let You Put Your Camera Down!

The misty winter gives way to clear skies and vibrant dense greenery in September in Nepal. The country enjoys pleasantly warm weather in the day and little cold in the night. The average temperature ranges from 19 to 23 degree Celsius.

Places To Visit In Nepal In September: Go on a trek along its many mountainous trails. River rafting on the Seti River is also one of the most popular things to do in Nepal in September. Visit the stupas and monasteries in Lumbini, the place where Lord Buddha was born. Strike off bungee jumping from your bucket list at Last Resort in Pokhran.

Suggested Read: 3 Places To Visit Near Asian Civilisations Museum That Are Perfect For The Explorers!

10. Hong Kong

The average high and low temperature of Hong Kong in September is 30 and 25 degree Celsius resp. September is when Hong Kong is beginning to say goodbye to the extreme heat. The air is humid and there is little rainfall too. Hong Kong holds The Mid-Autumn Festival in September every year. The festival has performances and programmes showcasing the rich Chinese culture along with delicious local cuisine.

Places To Visit In Hong Kong In September: Get a bird’s eye view of Hong Kong island, etc. from Victoria Peak. Rest in the lap of nature at Lamma Island.

Further Read: 23 Romantic Honeymoon Destinations In Asia For Every Budget

This was all about the places to visit in September in Asia. Plan your trip to any of these amazing international destinations and enjoy the best of this month with your family, friends or partner.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In September In Asia

Which is the cheapest place to visit in September?

Nepal, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka are some of the cheapest places in Asia to visit in September.

Which country in Asia receives high rainfall in September?

Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand receive the highest rainfall in September.

Where is the best weather in Asia in September?

China, Japan, and Sri Lanka enjoy the best weather conditions in September.

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Plan your trip today!

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

Recent Posts

11 Villages In France: Perfect For Adventure Seekers

10 Picturesque Villages In Switzerland Loaded With Natural Charm

10 Charming Villages In Austria That You Can Explore Off The Beaten Path

12 Hidden Gems In Maryland: Seek Offbeat Experience

10 Captivating Reasons To Visit Japan: Unveiling The Land Of Endless Wonders

Hidden Gems In Spain You Won’t Find On Any Other List

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Places To Visit »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Southeast Asia » Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking Southeast Asia Travel Guide (Budget Tips • 2024)

For many travellers, backpacking Southeast Asia is the ultimate highlight of their backpacking adventures. If you are coming from Western civilisation, exploring these mystical countries is like being catapulted into an alternate reality.

Over my travel experiences, I’ve spent YEARS bouncing around this dazzling area of the world. And still – to this day – I am awe-struck by it, time and time again.  

From the moment you set foot on the continent, you can feel the electricity in the air. Your senses explode from stimulation as you head out into the hustle and bustle in search of the BEST street food and an ice-cold beer…

If you’re new to backpacking, this corner of the world is a great place to start your travels: it’s affordable, safe, diverse, friendly, and astonishingly beautiful. From the heart of Bangkok to the islands of Indonesia, legions of inspiration are found in every country throughout the region – and you’ll want to see it all. 

With enticing tales of adventure coming from generations of travellers, it can be hard to know where to start planning your visit to Southeast Asia. It’s not as straight forward as arriving in other continents in the world. Having some travel tips with do you a world of good. 

Never fear! This Southeast Asia travel guide details ALL the low-down with everything you need to know to embark on your epic journey. From the OG Banana Pancake Trail itinerary to my favourite cheap eats, this guide has it all.

Spoiler alert : banh mi is the best street food!

Fasten your seat belts and don’t forget your motorcycle helmet. This is the ultimate backpacker’s guide to travelling Southeast Asia!

Why Go Backpacking in Southeast Asia?

Backpacking Southeast Asia is wildly chaotic, punctuated by brief moments of reflection and utter calm. When I first landed in Vietnam and began my travels in the region, I got that wonderful thought of so this is what travelling is about .

The best thing about visiting Southeast Asia is that you can stick to the well-trodden path and still have a mind-blowing adventure that’s easy on logistics. There are cheap buses you can catch between countries, it’s easy to buy your own motorbike and explore yourself, plus internal flights are usually cheap too.

Conversely, it’s very easy to step off into the wilderness and have a raw, untamed adventure. Some of my best memories come from taking a side road through the jungle on the Vietnam-Laos border. I camped on the outskirts of small villages amongst unruly jungles that hadn’t seen tourists come through in 10 years. Of course, obligatory rice wine was shared each night!

Generally speaking, backpacking in Southeast Asia is very cheap compared to travelling to other parts of the world. You don’t have to count your pennies and hustle at every step of the way in order to enjoy a beer at the end of the day. I’d say this part of the world takes the cake when it comes to budget backpacking .

Because the region is so cheap, you can enjoy big-ticket experiences that you might not be able to afford in other regions of the world. This could include world-class SCUBA diving in Malaysia , or a freediving course in the Philippines.

Even the ‘everyday experiences’ of backpacking Southeast Asia are epic, though! Think about taking yoga classes in the morning and surf in the afternoons in Indonesia . What about hiking through dense jungles exploding with wildlife, raging rivers, and massive waterfalls in Laos ? And you can’t forget to explore Vietnam by motorbike .

There is a reason that, despite how touristy some parts of the region get, Southeast Asia remains an incredibly special place to both first time and veteran travellers!

It’s just that bloody good .

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Southeast Asia

Best places to visit in southeast asia: country breakdown, top 10 things to do in southeast asia, southeast asia backpacker accommodation, backpacking southeast asia costs, best time to visit southeast asia, staying safe in southeast asia, getting into southeast asia, how to get around southeast asia, working in southeast asia, southeast asian culture, what to eat in southeast asia, some unique experiences in southeast asia, faqs about southeast asia, final thoughts on backpacking in southeast asia.

Let us be clear about one thing: Southeast Asia has so many things to do and see that it would be impossible to see it all in one lifetime let alone in just one backpacking trip. That said, you can sure pack in a whole lot no matter what your time frame is!

Also, remember that this is a region that lives, breathes, and thrives on a certain degree of chaos. Backpacking in Southeast Asia requires one to adapt to that chaos and embrace the wonderful spontaneity that can arise here.

I don’t think that you should attempt to plan your trip to the last tuk-tuk ride. That said, having a general Southeast Asia travel itinerary in mind will help you get the most out of your trip. You don’t want to spend your time scrambling for things to do – nor do you want to pack so much into your travels that you forget to enjoy yourself.

Do you have 2 weeks? 3 months? 6 months? No matter what your time frame is, the itineraries I have listed below have helpful travel routes for Southeast Asia to suit all schedules.

Note that each itinerary can be combined with another, done in reverse, and customized based on your interests. Sometimes it’s worth leaving off one or two sights in order to fully enjoy the others.

2 Weeks Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: An Epic Getaway

When low on time, I advise sticking to smaller countries like Laos, Thailand, or Cambodia. That way the transportation distances won’t eat a big bite out of your precious backpacking time. You will certainly only be scratching the surface, but you will leave with an even more intense hunger to return!

You could start your 2 weeks by visiting Bangkok  and exploring the city for a few days. Thailand also has some spectacular temple ruins of its own at Ayathuya and  Sukhothai which are close to Bangkok and well worth checking out.

From Bangkok, it’s easy to travel to Chiang Mai  in Northern Thailand and from Chiang Mai onwards to the mountain town of Pai in just a few hours. If the north doesn’t quite do it for you, you can always go party on the epic Thai islands in the south.

Alternatively, you could go from Bangkok across the border into Cambodia . There you can go see Angkor Wat and go south to visit the tropical islands off Cambodia. While there is a party vibe on the Cambodian islands, they’re definitely more relaxed. Think swimming at night with bioluminescence and chilling all day in a hammock with just a splash of psytrance.

3 Months Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: The Banana Pancake Trail

This backpacking itinerary takes you through the heart of what put Southeast Asia on the map. This is the juiciest of the banana pancake trail!

I would recommend flying into Bangkok and still kicking off your Southeast Asian travel with a bang. As you head north to the likes of Chiang Mai and the hippie village of Pai where there are lots of opportunities to creep off the beaten path.

Explore the best of what Thailand has to offer before heading to Laos. Take the slow boat from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang . If you have time,  climb Mount Phousi , because daaaaaaaamn , those views are insane! 

Laos receives a fair amount of backpackers, however far fewer than Thailand. The main attraction to Laos is its unmatched natural beauty, kind people, and rock-bottom prices. Vang Vieng is the main backpacker playground in Laos; this is the place where you can smoke a joint and eat banana pancakes all day.  Tad Lo Waterfall is definitely worth the visit as well.

Vietnam is another classic stop on this route. Soak in the majestic views and cooler temperatures of the mountains in the north before heading south. Hire a motorcycle, explore the cities, go scuba diving, or hop around the islands.

Vietnam has THE best street food in all of Southeast Asia, so prepare your belly for bliss. From backpacking Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi there are ample rice paddies, bustling metropolises, and banh mi glory to enjoy!

Finally, travel to Cambodia and Angkor Wat en route back to Thailand’s southern beaches. Learn about Cambodia’s sobering recent history whilst exploring some of the most impressive temples and beaches in all of Southeast Asia.

You can finish your 3-month extravaganza with a full moon party on one of Thailand’s best beaches. Bottoms up! You deserve it.

6+ Months Backpacking Southeast Asia Itinerary: The Longterm Backpacker

You will not be the first backpacker who loved backpacking Southeast Asia so much that you spent 6 months there followed by another 6 months followed by another cheeky 6 months. The longer you spend here, the more that the region opens up beyond parties on the beach.

Go trekking in Borneo! Get your ass to Indonesia and explore a few of the thousands of remote islands there! Hit up far-flung places in the Philippines! I will always vouch for travelling off the beaten path .

This itinerary would still have you flying into Bangkok AKA Asia’s Sin City. Backpacking Thailand is almost a rite of passage for those that backpack Southeast Asia. Now, while Thailand is crazy beautiful, you can experience a lot of Thailand’s best highlights  in a month or less. 

You can travel south to explore Cambodia and the Thai islands before crossing over into Northern Malaysia . Check out Langkawi Island before heading south. Staying in Penang is the best; it’s one of my favourite cities in Southeast Asia, with some great hikes and diving to be had around Penang National Park .

Alternatively, you can travel to Bali or Manila  from Bangkok and explore a totally new part of Southeast Asia. Philippine highlights include climbing Mt Pulag ,  Sagada’s Crystal Cave  and  Olahbinan ,  Kalinga Jungle ,  El Nido for some climbing and partying, and Coron for epic scuba diving.

If you want to dedicate a couple of months to Indonesia you won’t be disappointed. Alongside the Bali to Flores route, you can also catch a flight to Sumatra . Here, visit the orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang  and the stunning Lake Toba .

Also on tap here is world-class diving at Pulau Weh . This tiny island is located at either the beginning or end of Indonesia, depending on which way you’re looking at the map. You’ll have to pass through the town of Banda Acehto  to reach here, which is the only place in Indonesia that has Sharia Law in place. This definitely isn’t the place to come party while backpacking Indonesia, but the juice is worth the squeeze if you get to Pulau Weh.

Is this the Best Hostel in South East Asia?

Tribal Hostel  – Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!

An ideal hub for Digital Nomads and backpackers, this very special hostel is now finally open…

Come on down and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi and a game of pool?

Southeast Asia is truly massive .

There are 11 countries that comprise the Southeast Asian region; each one is special and also radically different in its own ways. You won’t even be eating the same food from country to country. Sure, it’s all mostly rice-based, but is it fried Nasi Goreng with an egg on top or is it laden with spicy green Thai curry?

The landscapes are even more varied with jungles, mountains, epic coastlines, and deserted islands all found in this region.

There’s something addictive to landing smack bang in the humid collection of markets, traffic, and skyrises that do crop up amongst all major Southeast Asian cities. Just visiting one or two of these countries will have you desperate to come back for more!

Backpacking Thailand

For many first timers, backpacking Thailand is the image at the forefront of their imaginations when it comes to destinations in Southeast Asia. Those white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and towering jungle peaks are sprinkled with a little hedonistic fun and low, low prices.

Finding a Thailand backpacking route is easy, as many routes are well-established and there are plenty of backpackers on the ground to grab tips from. You just never know who will suggest an epic street food vendor where you find spicy watermelon, or who will give you the heads up that certain roads have become notorious for police asking for bribes.

In addition to its natural splendour, Thailand boasts some of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities, especially if you are wanting to settle in somewhere as long term as a digital nomad. In fact, Thailand is rapidly becoming the digital nomad capital of the world. While being a digital nomad changes your travels , it can be incredibly rewarding – especially if you’re surrounded by a group of like-minded people.

Thailand receives more visitors annually than any other Southeast Asia nation by a long shot, so it’s not super easy to get off the beaten path. That being said, if you drive far enough north, you’ll stop seeing tourists and start seeing covert drug smuggling routes. I’m not suggesting that drug smuggling routes make the best adventure – especially for first-time backpackers – but if you happen to find work as a fresh-faced, aspiring journalist, then this country is definitely still full of stories.

There are also some lesser-known hikes nearby Chiang Pai – plus the motorbike riding around there is amazing . Just be aware of elephant experiences–the vast majority are unethical, so make sure you do your research and only visit TRUE sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park.

What to Know Before Visiting Thailand

• Don’t miss out on… the North – this is the REAL Thailand! Sure, those Southern Islands are beautiful and full of some cheeky debauchery, but if you want to get off the beaten path then you need the jungle mountains of the north.
• You know what’s overrated… the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan – it’s pretty sloppy here, not to mention hectic. The Eden Party is way better.
• The coolest hostel is… Get Hi Hostel in Chiang Rai is a The Broke Backpacker favourite! Especially if you’re travelling solo through Thailand, it’s a perfect place to find your tribe.
• The best food is found in… Bangkok. If you find yourself craving a cheesy pasta or fat steak you won’t be disappointed in this city! But even better (in my opinion) are the endless side alleys and markets selling incredible street food. Spicy watermelon, pad thai style noodle salads, and soups so spicy you’ll sweat out your demons… YES, please!

Backpacking Vietnam

Over the last few decades, Vietnam has charged to the head of the line as a top destination for backpackers. Delicious cuisine, cheap places to stay, epic ancient temples, and mind-boggling motorbike routes are just a few of the draws that make up the charm in Vietnam.

If you are wanting to explore Southeast Asia by motorbike, then Vietnam is the best place to go. The country is long and thin, so it’s perfect for a road trip and bikes with Vietnamese plates can enter most other countries in Southeast Asia (this is pretty unique).

Vietnam has the feeling of a country that’s leapt into the future so quickly that its countryside is buffering to catch up. When exploring Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City, or any of Vietnam’s big cities you’ll find skyscrapers and high-speed internet. There are underground music scenes and students who deal a little weed on the side to ex-pats. The streets are thick with motorbikes.

Then there’s the countryside: rolling green rice paddies, straw hats, and shacks. The mornings are long and slow, the evening is full of the sound of insects. Fields are thick with buffalo herds. And yet, both sides of Vietnam are united by their incredible food.

Pho might be the most famous noodle broth, but it’s far from the only tasty meal. Vietnam knows how to make a meal out of very little and they know how to make it taste good . Most backpackers will at some point indulge in a 3 am banh mi after a big night out and know what I mean!

What to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

• Don’t miss out on… the  Ha Giang Loop by motorbike . This one of the hidden gems of Vietnam that takes you through towering jungle covered mountains on windy, delicate roads. This is not for the faint hearted or ill prepared. This is a real adventure!
• Look out for… those bamboo pipes in the north – they’re used for smoking local tobacco and hit HARD. You might risk lung cancer, but all in the name of experiencing the local way of life, right?
• The coolest hostel is… Redhouse Dalat . It’s easily one of the most beautiful hostels I’ve ever stayed in and the owner, Linh, is an absolute gem!
• The best food is found in… Hue – it’s well known for its Central Vietnamese plates. I had quite possibly the best meal of my life here (definitely top 10, anyway). In a back alley, crammed into plastic chair far too small for me, I sampled the legendary Bun Bo Hue… I never knew noodles and broth would make me want to become a foodie.

Backpacking Laos

Laos is truly a special country in Southeast Asia and one that has managed to retain its easy-going identity in the era of mass tourism. Wild jungles, river deltas, smiling locals, and amazing treks make Laos the backpacking paradise that it is.

Places in northern Laos, like the areas in and around Luang Prabang , experience cooler temperatures in the mountains and rainforest. The south is more of the agricultural heart of the country.

Each area holds a lot to explore for backpackers. Laos is the perfect country for backpackers wanting to experience Southeast Asia within a short time frame as you can get in a bit of all climates, different cultures, and party vibes.

One can easily see the highlights and experience the country off the beaten path in 2 weeks to a month. Take it easy though. Laos is a country that is not to be rushed through. Plus, going slow means you might just end up on the 420-friendly river island– Don Det –just like I did!

You will see when you get your boots on the ground that nothing happens quickly in Laos anyway… This is a land of chill .

What to Know Before Visiting Laos

• Don’t miss out on… the mountains around Vang Vieng. Lots of people neglect exploring these in favor of tubing the river. The river party scene in Vang Vieng is diminishing anyways.
• You know what’s overrated… Luang Prabang. In recent years, it’s become very touristy and a bit disingenuous. The nearby waterfalls are still cool though.
• The coolest hostel is… Vang Vieng Chill House . It encompasses all the things I love most about hostels: chilling and good vibes. It gets a little noisy sometimes but it’s a great place to meet people.
• The best food is found… on the streets! The street food in Laos is absolutely top-notch.

Backpacking Cambodia

The temples at Angkor Wat are an obvious draw for those backpacking Cambodia and are truly impressive. Cambodia is a country rich in culture, beautiful beaches and islands, the Mekong River Delta, and bustling markets.

The nation of Cambodia is a country still pulling out of an extremely dark, recent past. A staggering 1.5 – 3 million people were killed by the Khmer Rouge, led by tyrant Pol Pot. It happened only 35 – 40 years ago and is still very fresh and raw to the Cambodian people.

Despite the tragic history, the local Khmer people are some of the kindest humans in the world. The country is still recuperating, rebuilding, and moving forward, however, corruption is hindering its rehabilitation.

There is a strange energy in the air in Phnom Penh sometimes. It can be quite tense and stifling amongst the humidity. It’s as if everyone is waiting for the other shoe to drop and for chaos to return.

This is a country that makes you think about how lucky you were to be born into a country of peace. And I think that it’s important amongst the wild nights partying in Cambodia that you pause and really learn something from the lands you’re travelling in.

Cambodia is one of my favourite Southeast Asian destinations to travel to; I loved it so much that I ended up overstaying my visa. From the awesome hostels , cheap prices, and epic off-the-beaten-track travels, Cambodia seriously has it all. See it for yourself and you’ll fall in love too.

What to Know Before Visiting Cambodia

• Don’t miss out on… the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng. One of the most sobering places in Southeast Asia and a refreshing change of pace.
• Keep an eye out for… temples other than Angkor Wat. Cambodia is full of Khmer ruins, like Koh Ker. You can spend days getting lost in the ruins of an empire past.
• The coolest hostel is… Yellow Star Hostel . It’s the kind of place you extend your stay for as long as your Cambodia itinerary allows.
• The best food is found in… the outdoor food market in Siem Reap. Most of the backpacker accommodation is conveniently located around here so it’s simply a matter of walking down and gorging yourself silly!

Backpacking Myanmar

Oh, Myanmar. For a few years between roughly 2011 and 2019, backpacking in Myanmar really took off as the country instituted democratic reforms and started to open up to the world. There was even a fear that in opening up to the world too quickly, Myanmar would lose some of its authenticity and charm.

I want to stress that I love Myanmar. I love the country and I love the people. I travelled there through some of the remote Northern regions. I caught the dilapidated trains, hitchhiked with monks, and even publically pooped my pants on a public bus after some dodgy food.

The temples are second to none, the food is cheap and delicious, and the countryside is beautiful .

But, the seeds of what has happened to Myanmar had been sown many years before. You can trace the military take over and crackdown back to the consequences of British rule back in Imperial times. There was a lot of tension during the decolonial period too with the government shirking a lot of international aid and joining any international forums.

This isolationism was intensified with the first military coup of the 1960s. This was the same military that was loosening the reigns during the 2010s that allowed a few of us to explore what truly is one of my favourite countries on the planet.

The tensions with the various ethnic groups on the borders never went away though. And neither did the military. As of early 2021, Aung San Suu Kyi (the former democratic leader) has been imprisoned and political dissenters shot and jailed as the military clamps down on control again.

I couldn’t in good conscience advise anyone to go backpacking in Myanmar at this time. But I don’t want to strike this country off the map entirely. The people deserve better than that.

It’s probably not the place of a travel guide to tell you to support democratic movements – especially not ones that are as flawed as Aung San Suu Kyi’s – but I think it’s fair to say that the moment it’s safe. Go backpacking Myanmar!

February 2023 Update : In the past few months, Myanmar has reopened its e-visa program and is officially “open for tourism.” Many travellers have reported successful and problem free trips, BUT it’s still important to proceed with extreme caution. Though the political situation has stabilized, there is the chance of getting stuck in the country.

What to Know Before Visiting Myanmar

• Don’t miss out on… Bagan. There are touristy spots in Bagan, however, the scope of the area is immense. Riding an e-bike to a secret place and setting up for sunset is the way to go. There are so many side roads and off the beaten path ruins here that you’ll find something special.
• You know what’s overrated… Inle Lake. Super beautiful, super touristy, and super expensive. Visit, then shoot through for some of the mad trekking in the nearby regions.
• The coolest hostel is… Ostello Bello . These guys are a solidly run hostel chain that will have your back and provide a place of comfort while travelling Myanmar.
• The best food is found in… Mandalay. I actually love staying in Mandalay , and the aromas drifting from the nighttime street food market is a big reason why! It’s a big city so there’s a lot

Backpacking Malaysia

I absolutely LOVE backpacking in Malaysia. Somehow, Malaysia has managed to stay below the radar of many travellers on the Southeast Asia backpacking circuit. To write off Malaysia as uninteresting would be a mistake: Malaysia should be your next backpacking destination!

For one, I found Malaysia to have some of the lowest prices in all of Southeast Asia. The country is extremely clean, the roads are in great shape, and the people speak decent English. Malaysia is also a majority Muslim country, which I found to be an interesting contrast to the Buddhist majorities of the countries to the north.

Tioman Island is one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets. Getting your PADI open water certificate is cheaper on Tioman than anywhere in Thailand. Also, diving is better – in my opinion. The coral reefs are not experiencing the same level of bleaching as they are in Thailand. I saw plenty of turtles, sharks, and more vibrant reef systems generally.

Malaysia is also home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests at Taman Negara . So alongside some of the most vibrant and developed cities in Asia are some of Asia’s most wild and unruly jungles! And, if that wasn’t enough, Malaysian food is seriously delicious.

Then there is Malaysian Borneo . Parts of Borneo are surprisingly well developed. That said, there are giant swaths of the island that are still wild and teaming with rhinoceros, orangutans, and other rare wildlife. The trekking here is of the old school, beat your way through the jungle variety! Malaysia has incredible adventure opportunities for those willing to get well off the beaten path!

What to Know Before Visiting Malaysia

• Don’t miss out on… Borneo. It’s such an overlooked destination but there’s so much cool stuff going on here. Get a tattoo in Kuching!
• Look out for… hidden speakeasies in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. They’re VERY well disguised, and absolutely worth it! Being an Islamic country, it’s harder to get alcohol here but where there’s a will there’s a way.
• The coolest hostel is… Best Attitude Hostel Cenang . This hostel has great social events running all the time – even if the karaoke makes me cringe!
• The best food is found in… Penang. Whilst ALL the food in Malaysia is good, Penang takes top honors. Seriously, those soups had me in a proper food coma.

Backpacking Singapore

Singapore is the smallest country to make our list. This tropical island city-state nation might be a blip on the map, but it is a regional economic and cultural powerhouse.

Backpacking Singapore has the reputation of being an expensive place to visit in Southeast Asia. Whilst Singapore is certainly more expensive when compared to its relatively cheap neighbours, there is still plenty to do for backpackers on a budget.

Some of the best street food in the world can be found amongst the food stalls of various markets. Singapore is a multi-cultural melting pot, so it is possible to taste the influences of many different cultures in a single dish. Rub elbows with locals and chow down on some epically delicious cheap eats.

Visit Chinatown , explore Arab Street , and be sure to grab a curry in Little India . Just based on the neighbourhood names alone, you can gather that many ethnic groups are represented across this city-country.

If you are visiting Singapore for longer, be sure to check out the nature reserves surrounding the city. Few people realize that just outside of Singapore’s urban centres there are some great day hikes to be had in the surrounding jungle. There’s also plenty of local life to be experienced beyond the neon landscape.

Singapore is a city that has something for every backpacker. Whether you are just passing through or coming specifically to backpack Singapore, you can be sure that there is always something awesome (and tasty) to get into here. It’s wildly different to other countries within the region, and yet there are glimmers of something similar. You’re sure to love it!

What to Know Before Visiting Singapore

• Don’t miss out on… the hawker centres (cafeterias). When you’re in Singapore, you EAT. The food is incredible.
• You know what’s overrated… Sentosa Island – it’s just Disney World with a fake beach. And you know what’s worse than hoardes of people? Paying to be around hoardes of people.
• The coolest hostel is… The Bohemian . This colourful little corner of Singapore makes my heart sing… apore.
• The best food is found in… Maxwell Food Centre. This is the most famous hawker centre in Singapore. In fact, the world’s cheapest Michelin-star restaurant is here! But aside from that, there are countless delicious options. There’s little wonder I ended up a couple of kilos heavier after backpacking in Singapore!

Backpacking Indonesia

As a vast archipelago nation composed of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. The country is so big and so spread out that exploring it can feel overwhelming.

Backpacking Indonesia is an adventure like no other. For starters, you can climb active volcanoes, encounter orangutans in the jungle, visit ancient temples, and enjoy spectacular diving.

All along the way, you’ll be welcomed in by some of the most friendly people out there while you enjoy the varied and delicious cuisine. Best of all, you can easily backpack Indonesia on a budget.

Bali is definitely the backpacker magnet of Indonesia and for good reason. Along with a blossoming digital nomad scene and tons of epic places to see, Bali is also surf and party central. If you are wanting to become a yoga teacher, there are countless programs being offered all across the island.

It’s worth staying in Bali for some time, but be sure to visit some of the other islands as well. Though fun, I would argue that Bali is not at all what the rest of Indonesia feels like. The country is jam-packed with off the beaten path exploration potential.

17,000 islands bro! Get yourself out there and explore some of them and you will quickly fall in love with this massive island nation. Because the real Indonesia is well outside of Bali.

The streets of Jakarta are a hot mess of traffic and street food contrasted with towering skyscrapers. The outer islands are deserted. There are jungles and villages as much as there are modern cities.

What to Know Before Visiting Indonesia

• Don’t miss out on… island hopping. Backpacking Nusa Penida , Derawan, the Kai Islands, Wakatobi; these are some of the best, but there are many more to see.
• You know what’s overrated… Kuta, Bali. Avoid it like the plague. Drunk Australians and piles of garbage. Plus, the tourists have made many of the locals suspicious of travellers. Not a vibe.
• The coolest hostel is… Tribal Hostel . Super cool, open and tropical, you won’t find a better place to stay than Tribal. In the quiet area of Pererenan Bali, and with a huge coworking space, Tribal has it all!
• The best food is found in… Jakarta. This city takes satay to a whole new level. Be sure to try as many satay sticks as possible – and Nasi Goreng, of course.

Backpacking The Philippines

Cheap beer, beautiful beaches, adrenaline-pumping activities, and some of the most friendly, genuine, people in all of Asia; the Philippines truly captured my heart. I made some incredible friends in the Philippines and I have to say, it is one of the easiest countries in the world to travel around as the locals are so friendly.

Getting around the Philippines as a backpacker and finding a sweet and cheap place to stay (and a sweet and cheap thing to eat) is breezy.

There are thousands of islands to choose from. This translates into EPIC scuba diving, a great place to learn to snorkel and to go fishing. If you have never learned to spearfish , you should absolutely give it a go. Spearfishing doesn’t get much better than in the Philippines where the visibility is insanely good!

If you love trekking like me, then you will be pleased to find some epic hiking opportunities in the Philippines. Caves, rivers, mountains, you name it, one can find all the outdoor playgrounds here. There are heaps of adventure opportunities in The Philippines if you’re equipped for the job!

There are endless trekking options in the Philippines: remote hill hikes and active volcanoes, gentle strolls, and multi-day backpacking trips. Some popular treks include  Cordillera and its rice terraces and trekking Mt. Pulag .

Not too far from here you can reach Sagada (and my saucy Sagada travel guide ) and hike in the hills. Bohol and the Chocolate Hills are a great place to trek as well. The Philippines is home to 25 active volcanoes that can be climbed to the summit!

If you’re a fan of a party then you’re in the right place as festivals in The Philippines are some of the most lively events you can experience as a traveler, and a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the culture of such a diverse country.

What to Know Before Visiting the Philippines

• Don’t miss out on… El Nido. It’s utter paradise, the stuff of dreams and legends. Stay here forever if you can.
• Look out for… crowds at Baguio. It’s becoming one of the most popular places in The Philippines; let’s hope it doesn’t become TOO popular.
• The coolest hostel is… Mad Monkey Hostel Siargo . The MM chain is somewhat legendary – but this one is my favourite.
• The best food is found in …hard to say, really – there’s just so much diversity when it comes to Filipino food . Suckling pig in Cebu, empanadas in Ilocos, bulalo in Tagaytay; nothing really beats adobo  made by a local grandma though.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Southeast Asia

Once you have your boots on the ground, the Southeast Asia backpackers circuit will be as obvious as the stars in the night sky. Backpackers generally don’t venture too far off of the so-called Banana Pancake trail.

That said, if you are a keen and adventurous type, there are many parts of Southeast Asia that are untouched by backpackers to this day. Many regions are very wild and make for endless exploration opportunities.

Additionally, there are islands in Southeast Asia (think Indonesia) that are so damned remote, few westerners have ever been to them. Have fun on the Banana Pancake Trail, but don’t forget to dip out once in a while to truly explore.

For starters, I’d suggest trekking in Borneo or taking a long motorbike excursion to the Vietnam-China border. These are two wildly different types of adventure, but they hint at the wild times you can forge for yourself if you avoid other tourists like the plague.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Southeast Asia is an adventure playground. It is a backpacker paradise and a place teeming with awesome budget adventures. There will certainly never be a day where you are bored for lack of things to do in Southeast Asia. Let’s dive in and take a look at some of the radical adventures that await you in Southeast Asia…

1. Jungle Trekking

There is some great jungle trekking in Northern Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam… Hell, in every country in Southeast Asia, really! If you choose to go trekking make sure to go on a multi-day hike. Personally, I prefer trekking in Laos, and I had an epic experience in Myanmar back when it was safe to travel through.

I would love to explore more of the remote corners of Indonesia and Borneo too – the options to go jungle trekking in Southeast Asia are really limitless!

2. Scuba Diving

Many backpackers fall in love with scuba diving whilst in Southeast Asia. Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia offer incredible diving opportunities in crystal clear waters with abundant marine life and plenty of wrecks for the underwater adventurer. The cheapest place to learn is the island of Kao Tao in Thailand and the islands in Malaysia.

If you’re not up to learning to dive, you can always learn to snorkel too. But with the affordable prices of Asia combined with the excellent visibility, you can’t really go wrong!

3. Motorcycle in Southeast Asia

Perhaps there is no better way to explore a country than by motorbike . You’re truly free to design your own itinerary and take every side alley that takes your fancy.

Plus, you become part of the landscape when you’re riding. There aren’t windows of a bus separating you from the buffalo or the mountain.

But there also isn’t much of anything to protect you if you fall off. So I’d suggest wearing proper riding gear and having insurance. That way, you’re free to enjoy the jungle roads, the epic peaks, and the offbeat camping destinations that Southeast Asia has to offer with some peace of mind.

4. Learn To Cook

Love the hell out of Southeast Asian cuisine? Me too!

Taking a cooking class whilst visiting a Southeast Asian country will supercharge your cooking skills. You will be preparing delicious meals for years down the line that remind you of the good ol’ days backpacking Southeast Asia.

Each country is full of such diverse dishes, too. You could pick up a nasi goreng recipe down in Indonesia which would stand completely apart from a classic Thai green curry, or a delectable set of Vietnamese rice paper rolls.

5. Chase Waterfalls

Don’t go chasing waterfalls… What nonsense! In every country in Southeast Asia, you will stumble upon waterfalls, epic waterfalls. Each will be more impressive than the last and will have you dreaming of turquoise waters for years to come.

6. Go Caving

Southeast Asia is home to some truly impressive cave systems. If you have the chance, you must explore some of them! There is the world’s largest cave in Vietnam, but many of the smaller caves throughout the region are equally as epic and more accessible. Over in the Phillippines, you can even try your hand at cave diving – that shit’s UNREAL!

7. It’s Street Food O’Clock

Love trying new things? There is something delicious, tasty, and bizarre to put in your mouth around every turn.

I hope the words “no, I don’t think I want to try that” never come out of your mouth. You will find food that makes you cry tears of joy. There will be times when your entire mouth becomes a burning pit of hell. And there will be magical moments where it’s a bit of both.

Each country brings something unique to the table for you to sink your teeth into – literally. So you’ve got no choice but to start munching your way through street carts!

(Exceptions are granted only if the food in question is an endangered or protected animal.)

8. Go climbing

Southeast Asia is full of karst mountains, which rise like pillars and towers from the ground. For the casual tourist, these spires make great photos. For climbers though, these are the stuff of dreams.

Visit Railay, Cat Ba, and Kuala Lumpur for some grade-A routes.

9. Island hopping

The Philippines has over 7,100 islands; Indonesia has 17,000. Combine these with all the other random islands scattered throughout Southeast Asia and you have a shit ton of islands to live out your Robinson Crusoe adventures. Better get started now – it’s going to take a while to visit them all.

If you get really addicted to island life, you may want to try boat life . That way you can perpetually traverse the best of Southeast Asia’s islands and beyond…

10. Stay in a Coworking Hostel

More and more backpackers are looking to turn their travels into a full time way of life… the best way to get inspired is to meet and brainstorm with other aspiring entrepreneurs and digital nomads, check out Tribal Hostel in Bali to find ideas, support and new friends 🙂

Psssst…. Searching for your Tribe?

Tribal Hostel – Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!

Come on down and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi and a game of pool 😉

The most common place to stay while backpacking Southeast Asia is, of course, hostels. They’re cheap, ubiquitous, and can be a helluva a lot of fun.

Never stayed in a hostel before? You’re in luck! Southeast Asia is the best place to learn how to live the hostel life .

Southeast Asia has some of the most well-known and well-regarded hostels in the world, which would impress even the most seasoned backpacker. There’s a real mix of cheap places to stay, too. There are the classic party hubs where to beer never stops flowing. But there are some really chill places where it’s more likely that everyone is sitting around smoking a joint while swapping travel stories.

If you’re going to be hitting the Banana Pancake Trail hard and for several months, you’ll want to pack the right stuff with you. We all know that guy who steals towels from hostels and takes them wherever he goes; don’t be that guy.

Whilst it’s easier to find hostels in the well-trafficked parts of Southeast Asia, there are some real gems just slightly off the beaten path. One of the best hostels I ever stayed in was in the middle of nowhere Northern Vietnam.

As is always the case, camping would be the ultimate way to save cash while backpacking. Just make sure you take a good tent with you and do your best to check your site – there are some really dangerous snakes and crazy, heavy rain out there in the remote, jungle areas.

There is really never a need to stay in a hotel while backpacking Southeast Asia. If you need a private space, book an airbnb or find a local guesthouse instead. Because it’s Asia, it won’t be very expensive and might be just what you need to recharge yourself.

• Where to Stay in Vietnam
• Where to Stay in Thailand
• Where to Stay in Malaysia
• Where to Stay in the Philippines
• Where to Stay in Singapore
• Where to Stay in Cambodia

Southeast Asia is the Mecca for cheap places to travel broke . Nowhere else on earth can you drink beer, find accommodation, and eat out every day easily for under $10 USD .

To give you an idea of the cost of backpacking Southeast Asia, here are some examples of shoestring travel budgets:

• $20 – $30 / day: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia
• $25 – $35 / day: Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia
• $30 – $40 / day: Indonesia, Philippines

As you can see, some countries in Southeast Asia are more expensive than others. For example, the cost of a trip to Thailand  is not as dirt cheap as you might think, especially if you plan on just eating Western food.

Generally speaking, any of the islands you visit whilst backpacking Southeast Asia will be more expensive than the mainland. Also, Singapore kind of stands as its own thing – you can expect a much higher cost of travel there than the rest of Southeast Asia as it’s not catered to budget travellers.

Creating the right Southeast Asia budget for yourself is the key to a successful backpacking adventure. Travelling in Southeast Asia should never be super expensive. With a few budget travel hacks up your sleeve, you will save a ton of money and have the time of your life.

A Daily Budget in Southeast Asia

Here is a more in-depth breakdown of what you can expect to pay on a daily basis whilst backpacking Southeast Asia…

Budget Tips for Visiting Southeast Asia

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst travelling in Southeast Asia, I recommend sticking to these basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Camp : With plenty of untouched beaches, forests, stunning countryside, and far-flung jungle, Southeast Asia can be a great place to pitch a tent for the night. A solid sleep system saves you money and can help you get off of the beaten path.
• Eat street food : Southeast Asia has the BEST street food in the world. You can easily load up on just a few dollars. Night markets are iconic places to start from.
• Couchsurf: Southeast Asian locals are awesome, so get to know some! Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see a country from the perspective of locals. When using Couchsurfing, be sure to send personalized messages to your potential host – make yourself stand out!
• Haggle: Barter, negotiate, sit down for a tea, and philander hedonistically if necessary. A good haggling game is going to go a long way towards backpacking Southeast Asia on a budget.
• Hitchhike: This is just your friendly neighborhood reminder that hitchhiking is the best, and it saves you cash! But more than that, it launches you right into the thick of it and entices adventures to come out of their hidey-holes.
• Leave “The Bubble”: Staying in the tourist bubbles always gets more expensive. Remember to leave the bubble and live the local life for truly cheap Southeast Asia travel.

Why Should You Travel to Southeast Asia with a Water Bottle?

Whilst there’s a lot that we can do when it comes to travelling responsibly , reducing your plastic consumption is one of the easiest and most impactful things you can do. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, don’t take plastic shopping bags, and forget straws. All of this just ends up in landfills or in the ocean.

One way you can minimise your plastic footprint is by investing in a premium filtered water bottle . That way, not only do you save money by not having to buy bottled water everywhere you go, but you aren’t contributing to the problem. You’re being part of the solution! And the turtles thank you!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Due to the great distances involved when we are talking about ALL of Southeast Asia, the weather can really vary.

The peak tourist season in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam is from November to February when the weather is beautiful across the region, but there’s a high chance you’ll run into a ton of tourists. The really popular guesthouses fill up fast.

The local people are a really friendly bunch and keen to help so if you have any problems don’t be afraid to ask for directions from the locals. It is best to avoid northern areas of Thailand from February to April as the burning season starts and mountains will slowly be covered in smoke.

When we are talking about Indonesia for example, keep in mind that Indonesia is WAY farther south and nearer to the equator. The weather in Indonesia can be loosely applied to Malaysia as well.

Generally speaking, there are 2 seasons in Indonesia – the dry season and the rainy season. In most parts of the country, the dry season lasts from May to September . Of course, this is also the most popular time to visit.

Consider visiting in either May or September if you want to try and avoid the massive summer crowd, especially in Bali. This way you can find cheaper accommodation which is difficult to find during peak season.

Most of the rain in Indonesia falls from October to April , with some regional variations. Those looking to do some serious trekking or diving may want to try and plan a trip in the dry season. There’s no need to let a little rain spoil your trip, though. Rain usually comes in quick downpours so just take a solid rain jacket; you’ll still get to enjoy several hours of sunlight.

Best Time to Visit – Country Breakdown

Best Months to Travel: November-February, March-September (Southeast Coast)

What’s the climate in Thailand like? 

Most of Thailand is dry and comfortable to visit from November-February. In March and April, the temps start to rise until they become horrible in June. The rains start in May.

The exception to this is the southeastern coast of Thailand (Koh Samui, Hat Yai, etc). The rains come a bit later here.

Best Months to Travel: November-April (North & South), February-July (Center)

What’s the climate in Vietnam like? 

Vietnam is a weird one: the North and South have similar rainy seasons, but the center’s is a bit later in the year. The absolute perfect time to visit the whole country would be in February and March.

Best Months to Travel: October-April

What’s the climate in Cambodia and Laos like? 

Pretty straightforward with only two distinct seasons: a wet one and a dry one.

In the wet summer season, downpours can washout dirt roads, and the heat can be OPPRESSIVE. Be prepared for lots of lazy days of doing nothing if traveling to Cambodia or Laos during the summer season.

Best Months to Travel: October-March

What’s the climate in Myanmar like? 

Typical Southeast Asia. The dry season in Myanmar actually runs until May but the temperatures at the end of the month are just WAY too much. June is unbearable to visit.

Visiting during March or October (shoulder months) are great times.

Best Months to Travel: November-February (West Coast), March-September (East Coast)

What’s the climate in Malaysia like? 

Pretty hot and humid all year round but each coast has opposing rainy seasons. Stick to one coast depending on when you’re visiting Malaysia.

Note the Cameron Highlands are temperate all year-round with a rainy season from September-December.

Best Months to Travel: May-September

What’s the climate in Indonesia like? 

In most of the country, the wet, hot season runs from October to April. Around May, the rains start to subside, temps drop, and tourists return. Visit Indonesia in May before prices go up.

Northern parts of Indonesia, like Maluku and Raja Ampat, experience the wet season in OPPOSITE months. October-April is the best time to visit these.

Best Months to Travel:  November-May

What’s the climate in the Philippines like? 

Not quite as hot as continental Southeast Asia, which makes travel in April and May more viable. But June-August should definitely be avoided – this is typhoon season and storms can very dangerous. Most ferries and resorts shut down during this time.

What to Pack for Southeast Asia

An adventure backpacking in Southeast Asia means navigating a certain level of chaos. If this is your first backpacking trip, or even if you’re a veteran, you gotta make sure you’re equipped for the job!

Make sure that packing list is spot on. For every adventure, there are a few things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Is Southeast Asia Safe? This is easily one of the most common questions I’m asked.

Every country on earth has a certain degree of crime and the associated shitty people. Southeast Asia is no different. Though violent attacks on backpackers are extremely rare, they can happen.

A common problem in Southeast Asian cities is the motorcycle bag snatch. Two dudes roll up on a motorbike and grab your purse or day bag and they ride off into the night (or day). I have heard reports of this gig being particularly rampant in the touristic areas of Phnom Penh.

Keep an eye on your stuff, especially when you are in the big cities and crowded bus stations. Be smart hiding your valuables and money when travelling and things will be chill. In general, Southeast Asia is one of the safest places in the world to go backpacking, so fear not!

Wear a helmet when you hop on a motorbike in Asia . Despite being an experienced driver, I’ve had a total of 3 crashes in Southeast Asia over the last 10 years. On the one occasion, I wasn’t wearing a helmet, I split my head open and had to go to the hospital. Your mum doesn’t want to get the call about your insides being on the outside…

To stay safe, every backpacker should follow the common-sense rules of safe backpacking .  In general, being out late, drunk, and alone is a recipe for trouble anywhere in the world.

If ever you run into the very rare hold-up situation, give them what they want and don’t resist. Your iPhone and wallet are never worth dying over, ever!

• Is Thailand Safe to Visit?
• Is Vietnam Safe to Visit?
• Is Cambodia Safe to Visit?
• Is Myanmar Safe to Visit?
• Is Indonesia Safe to Visit?
• Is Malaysia Safe to Visit?

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll in Southeast Asia

There’s a reason that those seeking something a little hedonistic oftentimes get stuck in Southeast Asia… You can buy ketamine from certain pharmacies and the acid seems to be ubiquitous amongst travellers. Many Southeast Asian countries have very harsh drug penalty laws though, and even without harsh laws, there are some truly crippling fines dished out.

Drugs on the road is pretty much a guaranteed experience – and in Southeast Asia more so than ever. There are the magic mushroom shakes popular in Thailand and Cambodia; there are the strong and freely available prescription meds too.

Plus, doobies are a staple of almost every hostel. So, if you’re gonna do the good stuff, then stay hydrated and watch out for ya mates!

What seems to go hand in hand with travelling even more so than drugs? Why, love and sex of course! But we don’t like to have frank and honest discussions about sex on the road out of fear we’ll be too judgemental – or not judgmental enough.

At the end of the day, love and sex will on the road is inevitable so we might as well have a conversation about it.

Remember that free love is about love as much as it is about sex. And I’d be dancing around the elephant in the room if I didn’t talk about how easy it is to engage with sex tourism in Asia.

Regardless of your beliefs and thoughts on prostitution, remember this is another person with thoughts, feelings, and a life outside of the sex industry too. You are not superior to these people; you just happen to be from a more privileged background.

Go to Asia and have the time of your life, do the things you’ve dreamed of – but be respectful along the way. Travelling the world makes you an ambassador for your country , which is awesome. We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with our countries…

Travel Insurance for Southeast Asia

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

As I said before Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are Southeast Asia’s two main international hubs. Most backpackers start their journeys visiting and staying in Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok for a spell. Budget flights throughout the region will almost certainly have you passing through one of those airports.

If you are looking to do the classic Southeast Asia Loop or the Banana Pancake Trail, then starting off by staying in Bangkok is the obvious choice. Flights into Vietnam through Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are getting increasingly less expensive as well, so keep an eye out if the prices keep falling.

Visas and Entry Requirements for Southeast Asian Countries

The biggest headache of travelling is getting a visa organised! The rules are subject to change at a moment’s notice and you never know what the land border will actually be like. All I can say is do your research, (politely) refuse to pay bribes that you don’t have to, and get organised in advance.

Luckily, most Southeast Asian countries have pretty straightforward visa requirements. Tourism is their bread and butter after all.

• Visa on arrival: Visa-free travel, 30 days for most countries.
• Extension: Yes, one-time, usually for 30 additional days, $60.
• Notes: Those arriving by land usually receive a 15-day visa-free waiver.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, but only for a small group of countries.
• Evisa: Yes, 30-day validity, $25, longer stays possible.
• Extension:  Yes, but you’ll need to leave the country and reapply for the evisa.
• Notes: Evisas are not valid at many border crossings.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30 days for most countries, $37.
• Evisa: Yes, same price and length as visa-on-arrival.
• Extension: Yes, one-time, usually for 30 additional days, $48.
• Notes: If crossing from Laos or Thailand, visas will cost more if you pay in baht or kip.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30-day validity, $35.
• Evisa: Yes, 30-days, price varies
• Extension: Yes, $2/day, filed in Vientiane .
• Notes:  The evisa is inconvenient, most travelers may opt for visa-on-arrivals.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 90-day validity, no charge.
• Extension: Possible at embassy.
• Notes: Malaysia is very easy to enter but takes overstays very seriously.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, between 30-90 days, free.
• Extension: Possible to file online.
• Notes: Like Malaysia – easy to get in, just don’t overstay.
• Visa on arrival: Yes, 30-day validty for most nations, $35.
• Extension: Only available to those with visa-on-arrival or prearranged visa.
• Notes: Foerginers can enter Indonesia on a visa-waiver program for free but they will not be able to extend stay. Some ports of entry require prearranged visa.
• Visa on arrival: Visa-waiver (30-day validity) or visa-on-arrival (59-day validity) available.
• Extension: Possible for those with visa-on-arrival.
• Notes:  You will need proof of an outbound flight to enter the Philippines.

The most popular and rewarding way of independent travel in Southeast Asia is to rent or buy a motorbike. It also helps if you can rent for longer periods of time. Most shops in Bali charge around $5 a day for a motorbike, but I was able to rent one for only $50 a month!

With a full tank of gas costing only around $1, you can cover a lot of ground without burning a hole in your wallet if you’ve got a long-term motorbike rental. Pair this with a proper motorcycle tent , and you’ll hardly ever spend a dime!

Common Types of Transport in Southeast Asia

You can easily buy a bike in Thailand or Vietnam (or anywhere really) and then pass it on to a local or fellow traveller when your time backpacking Southeast Asia is through. Don’t buy the first piece of shit bike you come across!

If possible, try to get the bike checked out by someone who knows bikes. It would be a shame to buy a bike just to have it break down the next day. Again, always wear a fucking helmet!

Taking local buses and trains (when possible) is the most economical way of getting around. Sometimes, this will mean rocking up at the bus or train station and sussing out a ticket, but it’s getting easier than ever to sort your journeys in advance.

Bookaway is an epic online booking platform where you can book bus, train, and ferry tickets in advance for a nominal fee – this is way better than rocking up at the bus or train station and hoping you can get a ticket – because sometimes you can’t.

One can find budget flights in Southeast Asia, but these flights and taking ferry boats to the islands add up. So pick and choose where you want to go and budget accordingly.

For short distances,  tuk-tuks are your best bet just keep an eye on your shit and keep your wits about you when in a tuk-tuk . Luckily, Grab (similar to Uber) is now readily available in several countries in the region, including Thailand!

Grab is hands down the best way to get around cities, the price is locked in on the app so you can’t get ripped off, AND it will always work out cheaper than travelling by taxi or rickshaw.

Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia

Hitchhiking should not prove to be too difficult and in some countries, it is fairly easy to get picked up. You have to be persistent and make sure the locals understand where you need to go or you will end up getting dropped at a bus station.

Some locals decide to turn their car into a taxi cab the minute they spot a foreigner on the highway. I would never assume that the ride is free initially. Always ask to avoid having an awkward scenario in which the driver who picked you up is demanding an unexpected fee.

Due to the large number of backpackers riding motorbikes across Southeast Asia, it is possible to score a ride with some fellow travellers. Generally, hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though you still have to be smart and use good judgment.

Onwards Travel from Southeast Asia

Whether you are heading home or carrying on travelling, budget international flights are your best bet. Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur is where you will find the lowest prices.

India and South Asia may beckon the vagabond to continue their travels. Or, Australia and New Zealand might get the backpacker to settle down in a sense and get a backpacking job .

Many backpackers pop over to Australia or New Zealand for 6 months to a year on a working holiday visa, make some cash, and come right back to Southeast Asia for their second round of backpacking escapades.

• Backpacking Australia
• Backpacking New Zealand
• Backpacking Fiji
• Backpacking Oceania

Working in Southeast Asia is certainly popular – though not especially lucrative. Scoring a gig as an ex-pat of some kind is always great, but most backpackers won’t fall into that category. Since work visas are sometimes difficult to get, a lot of the work ends up being done under the table.

That’s not to say it’s all dodgy run businesses, of course. There are a surprising amount of opportunities for backpackers to find work in Asia, but don’t expect to make a lot of money. You’re here for the lifestyle and experience, not the cash.

Popular jobs include dive instructor, English teacher, or some kind of hospitality. How easy it is to get a job will depend on the country. But a more popular way of making money while on the road in Asia is to work as a freelancer or digital nomad – this is where Asia truly shines.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

The Digital Nomad Scene in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is THE most popular place for digital nomads to base themselves (based on recent digital nomad stats ). Places like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Bali are thriving nomad hubs that attract people from all over the world. Kuala Lumpur and many large Vietnamese cities are quickly following suit.

Southeast Asia is a paradise for remote workers for many reasons:

• The cost of living is very low.
• Internet is ubiquitous and reliable.
• Expat communities are strong.
• Local economies are booming.
• Visas relatively easy to organize.
• Conferences and events are frequently organized.
• There’s a lot to do in your free time.

If you’re a digital nomad or someone who wants to give the lifestyle a try, you can’t go wrong living in Southeast Asia.

Teaching English in Southeast Asia

For another way of living or extending your trip to Southeast Asia, people have been teaching English abroad for a long time. Though you won’t always need one, having a TEFL certificate will increase your chances of scoring a gig.

We suggest using MyTEFL to get accredited. Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50 ).

I think that working as an English teacher does give you a deeper appreciation of the country that you’re travelling in. You spend time fostering connections to a place and you are, ultimately, teaching people a skill that will carry them far in life.

Volunteering in Southeast Asia

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in Southeast Asia including teaching, construction, agriculture, and pretty much anything.

There are so many different volunteer opportunities in Southeast Asia to suit any skill set. You could support communities doing social work in Vietnam, help out on farms in Thailand, teach English in Cambodia, or volunteer in a hostel in Laos.

Other opportunities include bartending, doing community work, and web development. Short-term volunteers should apply for a tourist visa before arriving, but you’ll need the appropriate permits to stay longer depending on what country you’re in. 

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are great places to start looking for volunteer work – but it doesn’t cover you for everything . Always tread with extra caution, especially if you’re working with kids or animals.

Ask the average Joe what they know about the history of Southeast Asia and most will be able to think as far back as the Vietnam War, maybe the Japanese occupation of Thailand. Beyond that, Southeast Asia is kind of a mystery.

But the history of Southeast Asia is long, complex, varied, and extremely fascinating. Before the Europeans arrived – the French in Vietnam, English in Burma, and Dutch in Indonesia – there were great kingdoms: the Toungoo, Khmer, and Malaca Sultanate, to name a few. Through these channels, Buddhism, Islam, trade, and science all flowed.

It is quite difficult to talk about “Southeast Asian Culture” because it would be a generalization; there are just so many different aspects.

What travellers SHOULD know about Southeast Asia is that it is, in fact, way deeper than it seems. Thanks to a long history of colonization that dates back before the Europeans – Indians, Arabs, and the East Asians all settled in SE Asia – the region is enormously diverse. Food, religion, politics, customs, all of the things that SE Asia does so well, come in part from external sources.

Of course, the colours of people’s personalities also change from country to country. Thais are legendarily nice (and open to just about anything). Malaysians are incredibly diverse ethnically and thus incredibly tolerable. Cambodians are the most laidback people in Southeast Asia by far. All of these traits become more obvious as you spend time in each country.

Don’t stay on the established Southeast Asian backpacking route if you want to get to know the locals. Koh San Road, Hanoi’s Beer Street, Kuta, and all the other tourist hotspots are poor representations of the culture.

The real Southeast Asia is found at the plastic tables on the street, inside the bike repair shops, and in the dusty corners of the region.

There are people who go backpacking in Southeast Asia just for the food. And for good reason, too: it’s fantastic! More than just delicious, it’s also cheap and hugely varied depending on where you are.

You can definitely expect a lot of rice, noodles, and curry in Southeast Asia. Luckily though, no two of these are ever the same. For example, noodles in Vietnam are traditionally served in broth ( pho being the most famous). Thailand, on the other hand, usually prefers dry noodles.

This is just the tip of the gastronomic iceberg that is food in Southeast Asia. And honestly, it’s really difficult to lump everything into one category. I will simply say that countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand consistently rank among the most delicious in the world, every year.

Because of its tropical climate, the fruit in Southeast Asia is also ridiculously good. Borneo is practically the Garden of Eden where just about everything grows, and the local markets in all the major cities have incredible selections to choose from. Be prepared to eat lots of fruit on your backpacking trip, especially bananas when served with pancakes.

I definitely recommend eating at the local markets and street food stalls. The prices are super low and the food is just as good as anything you’d find in a restaurant. Just keep on an eye out for sanitation – make sure the food is fresh and things look clean (enough).

Food to Try in Southeast Asia

There are some dishes you simply HAVE to try when you go to Southeast Asia:

• Banh Mi Thit (Vietnam) – The best sandwich in Asia.
• Pho (Vietnam) – Noodles served in broth w/ extras.
• Pad Thai (Thailand) – Dry noodles w/ peanut sauce and chilis.
• Tom Yung Goong (Thailand) – Soup made with lemongrass, herbs, and shrimp.
• Satay (Malaysia, Indonesia) – Grilled meat skewers.
• Fish Amok (Cambodia) – Spicy fish coconut curry served in a banana leaf
• Burmese Curry (Myanmar) – Local take on the dish that is famously good.
• Shan-style noodles (Myanmar) – Thin-sliced, flat noodles.
• Nasi Goreng (Indonesia) – Fried rice.
• Chili crab (Singapore) – Singapore’s claim to fame.
• Larb/Laap (Laos, Cambodia) – Beef salad with lots of seasoning.
• Tam Mak Houng (Laos) – Spicy green papaya salad.

Southeast Asia is a fantastic budget destination that is great for your everyday travels, but it’s also amazing because it allows you to splurge on some truly unique experiences.

You can go surfing, sky diving, bungee jumping, or any number of exciting things! But there are two big-ticket items that grabbed my heart more than any other: trekking and SCUBA diving .

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Southeast Asia

Each country in Southeast Asia offers up trekking experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Whether you prefer guided or independent trekking, there is ample hiking on hand for every backpacker to enjoy. Pack yourself the right adventure gear , and go do something crazy!

• Taman Negara, Malaysia : Explore the oldest rainforest in the world and spend the night in a bungalow in the jungle (for free).
• Kibungan Circuit, The Philippines: A 3-mountain circuit in the town of Kibungan in Benguet . The circuit, which takes anywhere from 2 to 3 days to complete, spans across the mountains of Tagpaya , Oten , and Tagpew .
• Shan State, Myanmar : Shan state is a popular place to go trekking and there are some great hikes around Kachin state as well. You will likely encounter no other travelers whilst trekking here.
• Phongsali, Laos : If you want to get off-the-grid and go trekking in Laos, I recommend making the long journey to the northern town of Phongsali . Though tough to reach, it’s equally rewarding for trekkers. While there isn’t much to do in the actual town, there are plenty of opportunities to visit remote hill tribes through the Provincial Tourism Office.
• Ring of Fire, Indonesia: While the beautiful beaches in Indonesia may be the major draw for tourists, there are also plenty of opportunities for adventures on land. Located in the Ring of Fire, Indonesia is home to well over 100 volcanoes. Trekking to the summit of some of these volcanoes is one experience you won’t want to miss when backpacking Indonesia. In addition to the aforementioned Mt. Bromo  and  Mt. Rinjani , you can also scale  Mt. Agung on Bali or  Mt. Egon on Flores .

Scuba Diving in Southeast Asia

If you have been paying attention, you should be aware now that Southeast Asia is fucking paradise when it comes to scuba diving. Without a doubt, Southeast Asia is the cheapest place in the world to become a certified diver. That fact coupled with some of the best dive sites in the world make scuba diving a no-brainer whilst you are backpacking Southeast Asia.

If you want to go diving in Thailand, go for it! Though I must reinforce how great diving is in Malaysia and Indonesia. The reef systems are in better shape and you won’t have to contend with quite so many tourists. Bali has loads of diving sites , and that’s just the start of the underwater sightseeing.

And if you aren’t up to learning to SCUBA, then you can always learn to freedive or snorkel. There is truly a whole other world waiting to be discovered once you leave the surface!

You’ve got questions about Southeast Asia and we’ve got answers!

Is backpacking in Southeast Asia safe?

Yes. Violent crime against tourists is very low in this part of the world – and even petty theft isn’t that common. That being said, you should still watch out for your valuables in very touristy areas. The thing to watch out for here is food/water bugs that can really knock your health back.

Where can I backpack in Southeast Asia?

Currently, all countries in Southeast Asia are open for backpackers, though Myanmar is still (sadly) risky to visit.

How long do you need to backpack Southeast Asia?

A backpacker could get a good idea of the region by spending 3 – 6 months there. Really, you could spend a lifetime exploring Southeast Asia and still have oodles left to explore. But this is enough time to explore a heap of places without feeling too rushed.

How much does it cost to backpack Southeast Asia for 6 months?

Southeast Asia is a blessing to broke backpackers. You can live comfortably here on $10 a day and splurge every so often on unique experiences. Including flights, insurance, and wiggle room within your budget, 6 months in Southeast Asia should cost between $5000 – $10 000.

What’s the best country to backpack in Southeast Asia?

This is a contentious question! My personal favourite is Vietnam simply because their food is my favourite. Aside from that, it’s cheap, full of epic motorbike adventures, and deadly rice wine!

Be good to Southeast Asia. It’s an incredible region that truly does have a little bit of something for everyone – all while being super cheap. We risk ruining a place when we don’t appreciate how special it is, and Asia is pretty freaking special.

Whether you stop by just one of its countries for a short SCUBA diving trip, or whether you get lost on the banana pancake trail for a year or so, you know you’re in for a good time. There are rice paddies, ancient temples, piles of spicy noodles, and some of the friendliest faces in the world waiting for you here.

Now, I hope I’ve been a source of inspiration in this guide but I also hope you’re ready to forge your own path through this great region. Because there are so many offbeat adventures and epic trekking to be done – you don’t need to get lost in the endless supply of cheap beer.

So off you go, you broke backpacker! I hope to see you deep in the Malaysian jungle or ordering your fifth banh mi of the week in Vietnam. Whatever you choose to do in Southeast Asia, it’s sure to be an adventure.

• Backpacking Australia’s East Coast
• How to Find Cheap Flights
• Best Party Cities in the World
• Backpacking Central America

Updated February 2023

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Will Hatton

Share or save this post

40 Comments

Hi! Me and a friend of mine are planning on backpacking in Asia from start of April to beginning of July. The only problem is, we are scared it is going to be too hot and humid. We are both from norway and not really used to super high temeratures, so my question is basically: what route can we take, without dying from the extreme heat? It does not have to be in the southeast of asia, but more asia in general. Love your website btw. Love from 20 year old adventurers and coldblooded girl.

Head to the islands, riversides and coastlines. If you are really struggling, follow the lead of locals and do things early morning and late evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Dress appropriately in layers that you easily remove. Keeping properly hydrated will also help you acclimatise .

Hi there, anyone who has read this brilliant article should definitely try out south east Asia, there are so many amazing experiences on offer. Me and my partner took six months off work a few years back and decided to go travelling around southeast Asia. We visited Vietnam first, then Laos then we discovered our new home – Thailand which is where we spent most of our time as we fell in love with the people, the culture and just the country in whole. We loved it so much that we decided to take the leap and move to the island of Koh Samui. We hope to one day be as travelled as the owners of this amazing blog. 10 out of 10 read!

This was amazing…leaving in 3 days for a year to SE Asia and this post nearly brought me to tears of joy with the emotions it generated. So excited about what is to come!

Superb blog

Will, thank You for the effort and time You invested in writing this informative and useful article about backpacking around southeast Asia. Also, I really appreciate the fact that through this article You inspire other people to travel on a budget, which is something that I also encourage 🙂 Keep up the great work!

Hi Will, thanks for the info! Two questions: Can one easily get through customs when you enter a country and stay for thirty days without having a return ticket back to the US and not knowing what country you will visit next? I bought a one way ticket from San Francisco to Singapore and going to make up my trip as I go over 6 months. 2nd question: Is it safe to leave your MacBook or other valuables in a hostel while you are at the beach? How do you protect your belongings when you want to go swimming and your stuff is on the beach. Thank you for your answers!

Hi Jamie, great to hear from you!

Regarding return tickets and immigration, every country and airline has a different policy on return and onward tickets. Yes, even your airline can refuse to fly you if they feel it’s a risk immigration at the other end may not allow you entry based on a one way ticket. Your best bet is to research throughly on forums and travel sites to see the experiences of others. There are some destinations that are well known for NOT allowing entry without an onward ticket, such as The Philippines. Other destinations may allow you entry with none, some may allow you to say you are leaving overland on an approximate date. It’s a calculated risk, onward ticket companies, expensive full refundable tickets and cheap throw away tickets are also options if you find yourself if a pinch.

Unfortunately its a fact of long term travel, eventually you will probably have stuff stolen, lost or broken, no matter how careful or diligent you are. Following are my golden rules for reducing the bad feels of such an experience as much as possible.

1. Back up your shit, regularly! Ultimately the data inside the device will prove far more valuable to you than the device itself. 2. Lock up your shit, don’t leave your stuff unattended in dorms or on the beach, keep your valuables on you if possible when travelling and lock things away while in accommodation. 3. If you have a bad vibe about a place or person, follow your feeling and use your common sense. 4. If you have expensive gear, insure it correctly, make sure you know where the receipts are before your trip. 5. If something happens, get a police report. 6. Don’t take anything travelling with you that you aren’t willing to have lost, stolen or trashed. Leave it at home. 7. When it’s gone, it’s gone. Theft can happen anywhere, don’t spend too long dwelling on the event or let it be a singularly defining experience of a destination.

Have a great trip!

Great blog, really good and usefull info in it. Thanks a lot.

I would so recommend getting vaccinations in the country once you arrive – we got them at medconsult clinic ( a british doctor based in Bangkok), saved a fortune compared to the UK for the exact same vaccine – got typhoid, japanese encephalitis and a hep b booster done.

Excellent information! Thanks for sharing.

I am really appreciative of this blog post. My boyfriend and I had been dreaming of backpacking SE Asia on a shoestring budget for some time now. He is Norwegian, and I am from the USA, but have been living with him in Oslo for the last three months. My visa extension was just denied, and he cannot get a visa for the US until January, so, we decided to push up our dreams and go backpacking and not be split up! We are starting in Bali, May 16th and I had NO idea where to go after that. I want to be adventurous and go where the wind blows, but also have some sort of a plan as we are on the smallest of budgets and HAVE to figure out how to make some money online, or find volunteer locations to house us. Anyway, this has helped me so much, as we are planning a 6 month trip right now, and are leaving in less than a month!

Thanks for dropping by! We hope that your backpacking trip in SE Asia is amazing!

What a long list of South East Asian countries to visit. The photos you used here just enticed me to add some of these places that I haven’t visited in my bucket list! I can’t wait!

Such amazing post!!

Thanks man!

Great post! I cannot wait to visit Asia next summer, my friend and I are looking for volunteering opportunities in Asia, we would like to know if it is possible and easy to find as we tavel around. We will really appreciate any kind of information about that.

If you’d like to find work as you travel through Southeast Asia, then try asking around English schools. Otherwise, Worldpackers is an excellent way to find work exchanges as well.

Thanks for the informative travel guide! My girlfriend and I are planning a trip to Thailand in June and were looking for something like this! We are planning on staying in Southeast Asia for a while, so we have plenty of time to do everything there is to do.

This may be the best travel article I have ever read and I have read a lot! Massive amount of useful information and I love that you added in the message about being respectful as a backpacker. I was actually warned in Japan by a young Belgian girl working at a hostel that drunk backpackers had a negative impact on her trip thru Vietnam. I’m on an 8 month trip thru Asia but do to some rookie mistakes will only have 3 weeks to get from Ha Tien, Vietnam to Singapore. Super disappointed not to have more time to explore Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia but your article gave me hope that I will at least see some amazing things along the mad dash. Thank you for all the time and effort!

Really glad you found this guide helpful and informative. Enjoy the rest of your trip!

I saw your Myanmar political situation post was made in February, do you know if there has been any change in government?

Just a little correction Will. Its “Lake Toba” not “Lake Tabo”. It`s in the 2nd paragraph below the Penang street art image. Anyway, if you guys planning on visiting West Sumatera, Sipora Island or Nias Island hit me up for some local tips.

Thanks for the correction, cheers!

Love his advice, thank you! Would you say it’s cheaper and better to do backpacking alone on a whim with rough idea of things to do rather than paying for a set tour prior to arriving? Some set tours are like 2500 excluding flights and I’m just wondering if it would be cheaper to get to Thailand, get a bike and then do any internal train bus journeys whenever I want.

Personally, I think paying for a tour in an ‘easy’ country like Thailand is a waste of money. Go with the flow, it’s probably the easiest region in the world to explore 🙂

Hi, Dig the site. Thanks for setting it up. My name is John. I’m from Texas. I’m currently in The Philippines. Looking for the best deal on a round trip ticket, from Manila to Cambodia, and back again . Any helpful hints?

Not a flight hacker or travel agent brother 😉

Wow @ Will – super extensive write up! Some of our friends just asked us for recommendations how to travel SE Asia. We send them your post together with our own experiences (which were much less exhaustive). 🙂

I see you mentioned that the hammock tent has been quite useful, though regards to safety, sleeping out in the open with your belongings. What exactly do you do with your pack and such? Also as a solo female traveler, would you still recommend this mode of accommodation?

Hammocking, and hammock tents, are an awesome way to sleep out as they don’t weigh as much as a traditional tent… However, I would not encourage sleeping out in a hammock EVERYWHERE – You need to pick your spot wisely, make sure it’s cool to camp there etc. I keep all my valuables in a daypack which acts as my pillow. My main pack I put under the hammock.

Truly an amazing post filled with so much information and more. Me and my boyfriend are planning to travel south east Asia for 7 weeks at the end of the year. You have given me so much information for us to digest and use. Thank you so much!

You are very welcome! Happy to be of service 🙂 Have an awesome time traveling in Southeast Asia!

Dude this was an epic write up and has gotten my partner and myself super excited to head off on our 6 month journey to South East Asia in October. Looks like Malaysia has now made the cut, and we are looking into adding The Philippines back on the agenda after getting some pretty mixed reviews. Wise words and sound advice, thanks again!

You are welcome! I’m glad you find it useful 😀

Great post!

I just came back from Thailand, Indonesia and Philippines, and I am 100% going back. Beautiful countries and each with their own unique cultures as well. I went for 40 days! Here’s a video of my travels:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osXq2N6e5aA&t=4s

I hope it inspires everyone to travel to these same places I did! 🙂

What a RAD article…thank you 🙂 I am about to embark on my first backpacking adventure around SEA and this was really helpful!

Great Post! Could get some very good information for my own worldtravel. Which country is your favorite one?

Myanmar and Thailand are my favourites…

As a seasoned spearfisher, I really need to put Asia on my agenda. I actually have a trip planned for the end of this year for Thailand and will definitely look into some fishing whilst I am there. I am only afraid of one thing. That I won’t want to return home!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.