asia travel destinations august

26 BEST Places to Visit in Asia in July & August!

Categories Asia , Summer Travel

I love Asia and I’m always looking for different places to visit Asia and the best time to go to Asia! Along with my travel blogger friends I have put together this list of the best places to visit in Asia in July and best places to visit in Asia in August to help you plan your summer holidays!

July and August bring the Summer holidays for people in the Northern Hemisphere and whether you’re looking to go on a family holiday during the Summer holidays, you’re studying and only have the Summer off, or you want to get away from the heat and crowds in popular European holiday destinations , you may want to spend the Summer in Asia.

However,  July and August generally bring the rain and monsoon season to many parts of Asia and if you’re like me this isn’t what you want from a trip!

A few years ago, I was personally wondering where to travel to in Asia in August so I reached out to my travel blogging friends to get their thoughts, opinions and experiences from travelling Asia in the Summer months and below are all the recommendations I received back on the best places to visit in July in Asia and the best places to visit in August in Asia !

Best Place to Visit in July and August in Asia

Indonesia is a clear winner as the best place to travel in July and August due to the weather!

A lot of the Indonesian islands will have blue skies and less rainy days making it the perfect country for a Summer holiday destination.

For example, I was in Gilli Trawangan during Christmas and although it was hot, December is the start of the rainy season so we had awful rain on Christmas Day! Whereas May, June, July, August and September practically offer no rain.

Weather in Asia in August and July

In this list of where to go in Asia in July and August, I have recommendations for places in South East Asia , East Asia ,  Central Asia and the Sub Continent showing that if you have a bit of flexibility you can visit some real gems during July and August in Asia.

Generally, I have tried to pick places where the weather is comfortable so although it may, and most like will be, very hot , it won’t be really humid which is awful weather to travel in!

Also, some countries change depending on where you are , for example, Pakistan in July and August varies a lot. In Lahore and Islamabad where you’d fly into, it’s soo unbearably hot but once you fly to the mountains of Northern Pakistan, it’s beautiful weather!

I’ve also tried to pick places out of the rainy season as generally the rainy season in Asia comes to most countries in July and August which is why it can be so hard to plan a summer holiday in Asia!

You really can’t do a 2 week India trip visiting the likes of Delhi, Rajasthan and the Taj Mahal in July or August, unfortunately!

However, sometimes the heat and a bit of rain aren’t that bad and can really benefit your trip because in the low season, you’ll avoid the crowds and get better prices by visiting these destinations in the Asian Summer months!

I ended up deciding on Sri Lanka in August so let’s see where you’ll book!

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-Gili Islands

Best in: July

The Gili Islands in Indonesia are idyllic year-round but for the best weather on the Gili Islands, I would recommend visiting in July as I did. The days are warm and sunny and perfect for relaxing on the beach or snorkelling. 

The peak season runs between June and August and during these months, you can be almost guaranteed sunny dry weather. 

There are 3 islands to choose from and I would recommend Gili Air, particularly if you are visiting in July. Gili Air is much quieter than Gili Trawangan which is busy throughout the year but especially so in peak season. Gili Air, by contrast, has just a scattering of hotels and beach bars so even if all the hotels are fully booked, it won’t feel crowded. I would, however, recommend booking well in advance.  

Gili Meno is also an option but in my opinion, it is a little too quiet with only 1 or 2 restaurants. It does, however, make the perfect place to escape to for the day and you can catch boats between the islands. 

Gili Meno is probably the most beautiful but perhaps a little boring if you plan to stay more than a day or two. Gili Air, in my opinion, has the perfect blend of quiet beaches with the option of finding a lively bar if you want a few cocktails. 

Spend your days sunbathing, snorkelling, cycling around the island, enjoying good food and maybe treat yourself to a massage or try some yoga. The Gili Islands are one of the best places to visit in July and I would recommend allocating at least 4 or 5 days in your Indonesia itinerary to visit.

Suggested by: Leanne from The GlobeTrotter GP.

My Related Posts: 30 things to do in Gili T / 3 Day Gili Islands Itinerary / Where to stay in Gili T!

VIEW ALL MY INDONESIA POSTS HERE

Best in: July & August

Visiting Bali during July and August is a great choice as the weather is fantastic. The weather is warm and there is less of a chance that it will rain. It is the high season but not peak season like Christmas time when the prices are very high and the weather not so great.

August is a great time to enjoy Bali due to all the wonderful festivals that take place. Buleleng Festival, Bali International Kite Festival, Ubud Village Jazz Festival and Sanur Village Festival are just a few of the events on offer. The festivals in Bali are a great way to experience the local Balinese culture and cuisine.

During August it is the school term in Australia so you will experience less Australian holidaymakers with their kids. It is of course summer holidays for the Northern Hemisphere families but with longer distances to travel to Bali you don’t really notice as many kids. Exploring Bali during July and August when the weather is sunny and not too humid will help you to experience all the amazing things Bali has to offer.

Suggested by: Kate from Rolling Along With Kids .

Book yourself a private guide aka diver and plan your full day yourself via viator!

My related Post:  The BEST 2 Week Itinerary | Bali, Gili Islands and Lombok!

-Sumba Island

It doesn’t get more remote than Sumba Island in Indonesia! This gorgeous island boasts a rugged coast that’s lined with palm trees and is unspoiled by development.

July and August are the best times to visit Sumba Island as there’s no rain nor wind and you can enjoy long sunny days on the beach. These months also bring with them the best swell if you’re looking to surf in uncrowded waters.

Sumba Island is a short flight from Bali and whilst it doesn’t have the high influx of tourists as other Indonesian islands, people are quickly discovering the beauty that lies within Sumba. It’s an adventure lovers’ dream destination with towering waterfalls, picturesque lakes, hidden caves and an abundance of traditional villages. All of this coupled with the unique culture and rich history make Sumba Island an ideal destination if you’re looking to visit Asia in July or August. There isn’t much tourist information online so be sure to check out this travel guide to Sumba before your visit. 

Suggested by: Carryn from Torn Tackies.

-Komodo, Flores

Best in: August

Usually visited from Bali or Lombok by boat (although you can also catch a domestic flight from Denpasar airport to Labuan Bajo, Ende or Maumere), Flores and Komodo are one of those destinations in Indonesia that are on the list of any traveller who it boasts.

Although both July and August are good times to visit the Komodo Islands perhaps August is somewhat better if we take the weather into consideration. That said, before going make sure that these islands are open for tourism when you plan to go. The country’s government – like many others in Southeast Asia – has already begun to take action against mass tourism and the degradation of some of its islands; closing them briefly for cleaning and regeneration.

Once there, the possibilities of things to do in Komodo are many. From visiting the Komodo national park and approaching the mighty Komodo dragons with a park guide, to explore some of the other islands in the area such as the beautiful Pulau Padar (pictured here), Rinca island, and pink beach – which is way less pink than the saturated Instagram images show.

Suggested by:  Imma from A World to Travel.

– Munduk

The small Balinese village of Munduk is an amazing destination in Indonesia for lovers of the outdoors. It’s a peaceful escape from some of Bali’s busier destinations, such as Ubud and Kuta, making it a wonderful addition to any  Bali itinerary .

July and August are some of the busiest months in Bali, making it a great time to visit Munduk to get away from the crowds. On top of that, July and August are some of the least rainy months in the village, which means your stay is unlikely to be hampered by bad weather. 

The most popular thing to do in Munduk is to go trekking through the beautiful nature. Undeniably the best hike to do is the Munduk Waterfall trek, which starts from the village and visits 3 nearby waterfalls over the course of a few hours. Other treks are possible too, whether it’s through rice fields or to other smaller waterfalls.

Another great reason to visit Munduk is that it is ideally located to take day trips to attractions in the north of the island.  Some of the best spots to visit include Sekumpul waterfall, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple and Banyumala twin waterfall.

As so many of the activities to enjoy in the area involve being outdoors, July and August are perfect months for visiting Munduk!

Suggested by: Sam & Natalia from Something of Freedom.

– Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is an interesting destination, known for its temples and food culture. If you visit in July, you’ll experience the “winter” of Yogyakarta, even though it’s still hot and humid with temperatures of 30°C (86°F) in the daytime.

While some rain is expected year-round in Yogyakarta, July and August are the driest months of the year, which makes it excellent for sightseeing as you won’t have your day ruined by downpours.

July is also in the low-season of visiting Yogyakarta as many international tourists are travelling around Europe at that time of the year, which means fewer crowds and lower prices for tours and accommodation.

As for choosing between July or August, it doesn’t really matter and both months are generally good for exploring Yogyakarta and getting the most out of your money and time. Thanks to fewer crowds and tourists, you’re more likely to get to interact with some locals as well.

Borobudur is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction near Yogyakarta, but a lesser-known place with stunning views is Kalibiru which is just a short car ride away

Suggested by: Alex from Swedish Nomad .

Here is the link to do some interesting things in Yogyakarta like guided tours to breathtaking places and watching sunrise

-Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands are on the East Coast of Malaysia not far from Thailand. In fact, the word ‘Perhentian’ means stopping because they were the stopping island for boats going between Malaysia and Bangkok. However, these islands are not on the usual South East Asia backpacker trail and are they unique in the fact that they are only open from March to October because this is when the weather is best.

They are made up of 2 islands- a big one (Perhentian Besar) and a small one (Perhentian Kecil). The small Perhentian Island has much more of a backpacker feel with lots of hut and bungalow accommodation whereas the big Perhentian Island is much more popular with families because it has more resorts to stay in and is more built up.

Visiting the Perhentian Islands in July and August is a great time to visit because the weather is the best in the Summer months offering you clear blue skies and hot temperatures. Due to this, this time of year is peak season on the Perhentian Islands so expect more people to visit and book your Perhentian Island accommodation in advance!

I recommend these islands if you want to chill on a beach, learn to dive, go snorkelling and relax in paradise for a few days! And if you’re looking for a cheap holiday in July or August.

Suggested by: Ellie from The Wandering Quinn.

My Related Posts:  Travellers Guide to the Small Perhentian Island of Paradise  / How Much It Costs to Visit the Perhentian Islands  

VIEW ALL MY MALAYSIA POSTS HERE!

How to get the best flights??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different destinations and different dates for the best price and route!

For example, I type in ‘everywhere’ in the destination if I have fixed dates and want to find the best flights on those dates on Skyscanner .

And if I have a set destination I’ll look at the ‘month view’ to check the cheapest days to fly in that month!

Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post!

Kuching on the Borneo side of Malaysia makes an excellent base for a stay on this island.  You can visit the wildlife rehabilitation centre to see the Orangutans and take a tour to Bako National Park to admire the spectacular scenery and the Proboscis Monkeys. 

July and August is the best time of year to visit with Kuching although it will be busy with tourists because it’s peak season. For a quieter getaway to avoid the crowds head to Mulu in the north of Sarawak. Mulu is a Unesco World Heritage site, and the national park has some of the most magnificent caves in the world. The caves are stunningly beautiful, and the wooden walkways make them easily accessible. The stalactites and stalagmites glisten inside its genuinely spectacular.

The Mulu Marriott Hotel and Spa is the perfect place to relax, surrounded by the green oasis of the jungle. There’s also plenty of wildlife to spot here, especially if you take one of the night walks. The departure of the bats from the caves at dusk provides a spectacular display that’s also not to miss. 

Suggested by: Fiona from Passport and Piano.

Royal Belum State Park in Malaysia is the best place to visit in Asia in July and August. Firstly, Royal Belum State is located in the state of Perak and crosses into Southern Thailand meaning July is the coldest and driest month in Perak. 

Secondly, the state park is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. It’s the perfect place to see tropical plants and wildlife, including monkeys, elephants, wild boards, and cobras. Although chances are slim, you may get a glimpse of Malaysian tigers and the threatened gigantic Rafflesia! 

Thirdly, Royal Belum State Park is, in my opinion, one of the most underrated travel destinations in Asia. Unlike other National parks in Malaysia, it remains largely unknown to tourists. Not to worry though, there are a number of decent resorts nearby the state park to stay in and most resorts offer tour packages that include accommodation, breakfast and excursion. Some of the top activities in Royal Belum State Park are river cruises, trekking to waterfalls, visiting the local tribe, bamboo rafting and fishing.

Suggested by: Ming from Flyerism.

-Koh Samui Archipelago

While it is the rainy season throughout a lot of Thailand during July, there is a slice of paradise off the East Coast where you can enjoy sunny days in July. This is the Koh Samui Archipelago and it consists of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

July is heading towards the dry season around these islands, therefore, I definitely recommend a visit in July rather than August. By travelling to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao in July, you will also be missing the main busy season in Thailand from November- February. That means you can still get wonderfully sunny days as well as cheaper accommodation prices.

There are plenty of things to do on these islands such as the ever-popular Full Moon party held each month in Koh Phangan. This massive event is super popular with backpackers in Thailand. I am not so much of a partier so instead, I hired a scooter to find the top beaches in Koh Phangan . Though, if you love discovering life underwater Koh Tao provides plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, diving and free diving.

Either way, the gorgeous Koh Samui Archipelago in Thailand has some impressive islands with plenty of things to keep you busy. So, if you are looking for where to go on holiday in July and looking for a cheap holiday destination in July, I highly recommend either Koh Tao, Koh Phangan or Koh Samui.

Suggested by: Tasha Amy from Backpackers Wanderlust.

My Related Posts:  Female Packing List For Thailand | What To Pack and Not Pack  /  How to Visit Koh Samui on a Budget /  2 Week Thailand Itinerary to see the North & the South Islands!  

VIEW ALL MY THAILAND POSTS HERE!

– Sapa

The summer months are the perfect time to visit Sapa in Northern Vietnam. Sapa’s elevation high up in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountain Range keeps it nice and cool during summer months, which is rare in Southeast Asia. Due to its unique climate and location, this region only gets one rice crop per year and the terraces are bright green and full of life in July & August. The extensive rice terraces that cover the tall hills and mountains are a photographer’s dream! 

Hikers too will love walking through the lush paddies, however, you should bring some gear that can withstand a few raindrops. Even though the temperatures are pleasant it does rain more than the winter months. One of the best ways to experience Sapa, Vietnam is to hike to and sleep in a local village in a homestay with a Hmong family to get a glimpse into local life here. A trip here in the summer is one you won’t soon forget. 

Suggested by: Adam & Hannah from Getting Stamped.

-Vientiane 

While Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, in general, is a laidback city, without the chaos of the other Southeast Asian Cities. In July and August, the crowds are much less on the streets of Vientiane than in the high seasons of October to April. July and August make for the best time to visit Vientiane.

The tourist attractions are not overcrowded, the streets are mellow, and the weather isn’t that bad during these months with low season bring a little more rainfall and the rise of humidity. Therefore, if you want to go to a major city in Asia without chaos, no significant high-rise buildings and plenty of cultural attractions to visit. Surely that’s reason enough to put Vientiane on the list when organising your holidays in Asia during the Summer. 

In addition to Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng are also good places to visit in Laos in the Summer months of July & August.

Suggested by: Anthony from Fair Dinkum Traveller .

Singapore in July and August is the time just before the rain starts to fall hard, but it’s also a time of joyous celebration. The first major party that you should know about is National Day, annually falling on August 9. It is a day of national pride as it commemorates Singapore’s independence from Malaysia, which they received in 1965. There is a wonderful parade (NDP), an address by the Prime Minister of Singapore. But the reason you’d want to visit is the fireworks celebrations. The year 2019 is particularly important as it is the bicentennial. The entire city-state will be lit up with the most miraculous displays of light and pyrotechnics. And the best part… it’s free to view.

If you’re a shopaholic, the months between June and July is the annual Great Singapore Sale. This is a 5 week extravaganza when the entire country slashes their prices to up to 70% off. The best place to go during the sale, Orchard Road of course. This street is lined with massive malls that get super packed on weekends. So go during the week if you can. You can also visit the less flash shops in Chinatown, Kampong Glam, Little India, particularly Haji Lane for boutique stores.

Suggested by: Callan from Once in a Lifetime Journey.

-Northern Areas

If you want some Mountain adventures in July and August you need to consider Pakistan! Pakistan in July and August is the perfect time to head to the Northern Mountains in Pakistan because the sun will be out, flowers will be in bloom and the mountains are open for you to hike and explore.

I’d recommend Skardu and Hunza as the best places to visit in Pakistan to start with. There are so many places to visit in the Northern areas of Pakistan and although I do recommend following an itinerary similar to this 2 week Pakistan itinerary , I do also recommend keeping your plans flexible and free as the more you see in Pakistan, the more you want to see!

The Southern areas of Pakistan including Islamabad will be hot in July and August and probably a bit wet due to the monsoon season and this will only intensify as you go South, so fly into Islamabad and get up North in Pakistan asap and spend as long as you can seeing this incredible country that is only just waking up to tourism!

My Related Posts:  10 Things To Know BEFORE You Go to Pakistan  / 2 Week Itinerary for Pakistan | Best Places to Visit on Your First Trip!  

When planning your  backpacking Sri Lanka  adventure, you’ll quickly realize that there’s not just one optimal time to visit this small island, just off the coast of India. While other countries in Asia have a clear division of dry season and rainy season, there are different climate zones within Sri Lanka. If you’re ready for an island escape in Asia in July and August, make sure to focus your itinerary on the North as well as the East part of the country, since this is the best time to visit these regions of Sri Lanka.

That being said, during my travels around Sri Lanka in July 2018, I also visited the Southern coast to places such as Galle and Mirissa. Although it was very hot, I was pretty lucky and didn’t see any rain for a whole week! Further, I was also able to take full advantage of travelling the southern coast off-season – there were no tourist crowds and the streets of Galle were very quiet, especially compared to other touristic places that I visited in Sri Lanka.

My recommendation for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in July and August? Focus on the East and North, but keep your days flexible and if the forecasts predicts sunshine and little rain for your time, make sure to include the Southern coast as well in your Sri Lanka itinerary!

Suggested by: Patrick from German Backpacker.

My Related Posts:  Visiting Sri Lanka in August | Weather in Sri Lanka  /  Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka on Your First Trip!

The Maldives is a good country to visit all year round meaning July and August are also great months to visit the Maldives. You can spend the morning watching the sun come up and listening to the ocean from the overwater villas and the temperatures hover over a balmy 80F year-round.

You are guaranteed a magical time in the Maldives anywhere you stay on any of the islands, the water is crystal clear, there is abundant marine life and the people are friendly.  With so many resorts it is hard to pick just one, but the water swing at Taj Exotica Resort and Spa sold us! The resort is located on the Emboodhu Finolhu Island which used to be called ‘Three Coconut Island’ is in the middle of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. Our family spent 5 days here and would love to go back to spend a week or two exploring the other islands that make up the Maldives.

We flew from Chennai to Male through Colombo on SriLankan Airlines. Taj Exotica is located not too far from the Malé airport and is just a 20-minute boat ride away, no need for any seaplanes to get here.

Suggested by: Priya from Outside Suburbia.

Most people choose to visit tropical destinations like Kerala, in South India, in the winter, when they want to escape cooler climates. But then there are more romantic souls, who opt to go in the monsoon season to experience that special magic the rains bring.

Kerala is a state in South India that is warm and tropical all year ‘round. It is blessed with gorgeous beaches, lush forests, a system of backwaters that are home to a unique culture, and a cooler, mountainous highland region that provides ideal conditions for a myriad of spice, tea, and coffee plantations.

There are many great places to visit in Kerala all year ‘round, but monsoon is a special time. The monsoon rains hit Kerala in early June, and continue for most of the summer months – June, July, and August.

I spent a week during monsoon at a resort in the Kerala backwaters once, and I loved the bountiful lushness, and the way the sky, lake, and canals all blended together like a giant watercolour painting. It’s very hard to describe the peaceful ambience, and how relaxed I felt in this atmosphere. Almost like being suspended between earth and water, calmed by a lullaby of pattering rain, and secure in the feeling that there was no need to go anywhere or do anything.

Suggested by: Mariellen from Breathe Dream Go.

VIEW ALL MY INDIA POSTS HERE!

– Matheran

Matheran (Meaning Forest on the Forehead) is the cutest hill station, located 90 km from Mumbai in the lap of the Sahyadris mountain ranges well away from the hustle-bustle of city life.  It gets heavy rainfall during the monsoon season ranging from May-August.

However, a good reason to visit Matheran in Monsoon season  is because of its natural landscape. One can encounter amazing waterfalls with a height ranging from 10 to 100 meter during July and August. Some very popular tourist points in Matheran include Echo Point, Alexander Louisa The point, Panorama Point, and Porcupine Point. To preserve the surroundings and environment, the hill station has been declared an ECO-ZONE which means no vehicles are allowed leaving an only way to roam around is wither walking or cycling or riding horses.

The town has no road, so it’s all rock and red soil with a natural terrain ideal for hiking and adventure seekers.  A traveller may get close to monkeys and various species of birds at any point of their trip.

It is a favourite destination among locals for a day trip or longer to get close with nature in peace. Every traveller, photographer and nature seeker should once experience this alluring place in the rainy season. 

Suggested by: Chandresh from Family on the Wheels.

Sikkim the state in North East India, looks heavenly in the Monsoon Season in July and August. It is a time when the mother nature wakes up from deep sleep and starts rejuvenating. The continuous rains make the landscapes look lush green and valleys get beautifully covered with clouds. The new fresh green leaves start budding, forests becomes dense, Lakes start roaring in full swing and birds make it a chirpy heaven. There is just a feeling of freshness and livelihood in the whole environment.  

Sikkim during the monsoon season is the offseason, and this is a good time to visit because there is not a high demand for accommodation and resources are dirt cheap.

The weather in Sikkim in July and August is extremely pleasant and temperatures range between 4 – 15 degree Celsius. In North Sikkim, you will feel that the mother nature has opened up its arm just for you. We recommend visiting this place in August as compared to July as the amount of rains decreases and so does the chance of encountering landslides. Check the complete itinerary of Darjeeling Sikkim Tour here.

Suggested by: Suruchi from All Gud Things.

Although the beginning of July in Japan is when the hot and humid summer starts, our five-days stay in Kyoto in July was very pleasant and enjoyable.

During our visit, Kyoto seemed a lazy and sleepy city and not as busy as we expected, in fact, there was almost no one visiting the famous bamboo forest at that time! Who knows, maybe we were just lucky. On several nights during our stay in Kyoto in July it rained quite intensively, but throughout the day we only had to use an umbrella twice. We also carried a small towel, as humid air made us sweat more than usual. Throughout the day the sky was quite cloudy, so our photos from Kyoto seem a bit hazy, but still, it was not a big issue for us.

When it was getting too hot and stuffy, to cool down we drank a lot of cold green tea, ate matcha flavoured ice creams, and rested in the shade of trees. Kyoto is definitely our favourite city in Japan, and we won’t hesitate to visit it in the summer again.

Suggested by: Marta and Milosz from Backpackers.wro .

My Related Posts:  How to take a Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto | 1 Day Itinerary  /  2 Week Japan Itinerary for Your First Visit to Japan  /  How to Use a Japan Rail Pass – All You Need To Know!

VIEW ALL MY JAPAN POSTS HERE!

Tours in Kyoto to book to help you explore the amazing place with a guide:

– Tokyo

Tokyo is hardly a well-kept secret but there is a special reason to visit Tokyo in July and August: Fuji. 

This icon of Japan can be seen on a clear day from a few spots in the city, but during the summer months only, you can climb right the way to the top, passing through scarlet torii gates as you go. After that, the path is closed and you need to wait another year.  The climb itself doesn’t require technical skills but it does require good footwear and a decent level of fitness as you’ll be walking over uneven ground and climbing to 3776 metres.

You can climb Fuji in a day but the more popular way to climb Mount Fuji is to join the crowds and climb at night to see the sunrise from the mountain peak. 

So, what should you do for the rest of your time in Japan in July and August? You can easily fill an itinerary with five days in Tokyo before activating a Japan Rail Pass and travelling on to see more of the country. Summer in Japan allows you to linger in the gardens and enjoy the shade of the temples. A chance to refresh and recharge before heading back into the frenetic parts of Tokyo.

Suggest by: Abigail from Inside the Travel Lab.

-Penghu Islands

If Taiwan is Asia’s best-kept secret destination, Penghu is its paradise island only insiders know. While the mainland of Taiwan is suffering from heatwaves during the summer the Penghu islands become the perfect getaway destination from the city to cool off and relax by the crystal clear water.

Penghu is a group of 90 islands and islets in the west of Taiwan Strait. Naturally, the islands feature many gorgeous sandy beaches with emerald water. The best part is that they rarely get crowded, especially the ones off the uninhabited islands. You can relax by the uncrowded seaside or swim in the unpolluted water. Or, even go island-hopping on a boat.

While the island’s notorious wind makes a hostile living environment in winter, it becomes an ideal place to catch the waves for surfing and windsurfing enthusiasts in summer. Again, it’s only known to a small circle of insiders, which means you don’t need to fight for your spot. Penghu also has the world’s first submarine postbox you can dive or underwater helmet-walk to send a waterproof postcard. Deep-sea fishing is popular here too.

Does Penghu sound like your perfect summer getaway destination in Asia? Wait until you check out this list of uncrowded, stunning beaches in Taiwan and the best time to visit.  

Suggested by: Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue.

My Related Posts:  16 Places to Visit in Taiwan | Tourist Spots  /  2 Week Taiwan Itinerary /  1 Week Taiwan Itinerary!

VIEW ALL MY TAIWAN POSTS HERE!

One of the best, and most forgotten about, places to visit in Asia during July and August is the Central Asian country of Kazakhstan.  The winter months are an extreme version of cold that many people have probably never felt anything like but the summer months are pleasantly hot and surprisingly tolerable.

The capital of Nur-Sultan is the second coldest capital city in the world during the winters but the summers are warm on the steppe and it gives Nur-Sultan a new life during July and August.  Autumn can come quickly and sometimes even in September, so it is best to get your fill of Kazakhstan during the summer.

Almaty, the country’s southeastern mega-city is cold in the winters and because it is surrounded by mountains, it can be rather inaccessible during the winter months. July and August are the perfect time to go to Almaty and to explore the city’s scenery, vibrant cafe scene, and must more.  Many people may flock to the beaches of southeast Asia or for a culinary adventure in India, but Kazakhstan is a great alternative as it has lakes, seas, deserts, canyons, and amazing food culture… without all the tourists.

Suggested by: Megan from Megan Starr.

If you mention the name Uzbekistan as a travel destination you can be guaranteed that most people will wonder why you would wish to visit there. It is, however, a very good Asian destination to visit during the summer due to its arid land, beautiful landscapes and minimal amounts of rain.

Travelling in Uzbekistan will take you across the former Silk Road and you can certainly visit the silk factories in Khiva and Bukhara. Equally impressive are the carpet making factories of Khiva and the elaborate embroidery, suzani, found in Bukhara and Samarkand which is difficult to resist buying! The walled city of Bukhara feels as though it is part of a film set with its vast towers and romanticism. It is truly stunning! Monuments such as the Chor Minor with its turquoise domes will mesmerise you with their beauty!

There is also the option of visiting the mountain areas as respite from the heat and exploring the traditional cultures with an overnight stay in a yurt in Nurata. Plus, you could also take a camel ride through the desert to break up the journey. The summer palace of Alim Khan is also a worthwhile stop. There are so many activities to partake in witha visit to Uzbekistan and the food is also scrumptious with the national, rice-based dish of Plov to try. The non-bread also features on daily menus with different regional designs!

The landscapes alone are spectacular with very mesmerising views including a visit to the fortress that Alexander the Great had located in Nurata, which is a desert area. Furthermore, petroglyphs can be viewed at Sarmysh Gorge. Uzbekistan is certainly a destination that you will always talk about and remember fondly.

Suggested by: Latoya from Franglais27 Tales .

Ulaanbaatar is a fascinating place to visit at any time of year but July and August bring long, hot sunny days and light evenings so you can make the most of your sightseeing days.

In the middle of July, Mongolians gather throughout the country for the nations’ biggest festival, Naadam, a rousing and colourful spectacle celebrating the traditional sporting abilities of the nomadic tribes and Mongolian people. However, if you visit in August, Ulaanbaatar (and the rest of Mongolia) will be quieter and accommodation will be cheaper and easier to find. Explore the museums, historic and religious sights of Ulaanbaatar such as Gandantegchenling Monastery with its enormous standing Buddha.

The summer months are an ideal time for a trip to the Mongolian steppe to see the impressive Genghis Khan statue and the scenic Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. The open, exposed steppe is easier to visit in summer than in winter and you can enjoy hiking, cycling and horse riding activities. Stay with a local family in one of their yurts or ‘gers’ where the clear night skies of summer will provide you with amazing star-filled skies.

Suggested by: Sinead from Map Made Memories .

-Lake Bikal

Lake Baikal is one of the best places in Russia to get out of the cities and experience the country’s vast expanses of unadulterated nature. It’s the oldest and deepest lake in the world, and the largest freshwater lake in the world. But since the lake is in Siberia, the climate is bitterly cold outside of the summer season. In fact, it’s completely frozen over for four to five months of the year!

If you want to go hiking or camping, the window of opportunity is fairly short, and July and August are the best months. It’s possible to swim in the lake too, but be prepared for some very cold water! There’s a fabulous hiking trail called the Great Baikal Trail, which hugs the shoreline along the cliffs between Listvyanka and Bolshoie Koty. The trail is about 22 kilometers long and takes five to eight hours to complete. 

Foreign tourists usually visit Lake Baikal as part of a longer trip by train along the Trans-Siberian Railway, taking in other sights along the way, such as the Kremlin of Kazan and the Boris Yeltsin Center in Yekaterinburg. If you want to visit just the lake, you should fly into Irkutsk, which is about 70 kilometers from Listvyanka. From there, you can take a minibus or a ferry to reach the lake.  

Suggested by: Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan.

And there you have it! I hope you can now work out where will be the best place to travel in July and August to get good weather and small crowds whilst the Summer Holidays are happening!

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Tuesday 14th of January 2020

Hi there! we traveled last summer for 3 months in SE Asia.(Thailand, Laos,Cambodia and Vietnam) and from Laos Vientiane(capital) is basically just a stopover city to travel through to other amazing places this country has to offer, Laos is still very virgin and unknown so now is the time to go as it’s un ruined by tourism, for example if you are coming from Thailand you should do a 2 day boat trip to Luang Prabang and spend some time in this impressive city as there are over 50 temples here to visit, the food, the markets, the people!!! also the Kuang si falls. Vang Vieng is the “touristy area “ amazing, and beautiful nature and has lots of super cool activities yo offer, from zip lining to kayak to going in donuts in caves, to cheap buggy rides to the lakes through the rice fieds. and at last the 3000 islands on the mekong delta, also an amazing place to visit, in the middle of nowhere you suddenly find theese beautiful virgin islands with also. a lot to offer. So please change the part of Vientiane and include theese amazing spots. it’s also one of the cheapest places in Asia, cheaper then Thailand and Vietnam!!

TheWanderingQuinn

Monday 3rd of February 2020

Thank you for this, thats so good to hear! I will add them in! :)

Friday 20th of September 2019

Mongolia has the most beautiful landscapes I have ever visited, I remember that with my friends we did a picnic and we all loved the idea of returning as soon as possible. (we have not returned to for work :(((((( so sad hahahahah).

Wednesday 16th of October 2019

Ah wow that's so good to know! I do plan to go there next year!!

L - Franglais27

Saturday 10th of August 2019

Love this post! I quite often consider travelling to Asia in July/ August as I typically have my longer holiday then. I have probably been quite fortunate in avoiding heavy rains whilst visiting Vietnam, Cambodia, China and other places in that time. Uzbekistan is also quite good to visit during the summer months and Georgia and Armenia which are on that cusp of Europe and Asia.

That’s great to know and good to know you enjoyed Georgia and Armenia at this time of year, I thought it might be quite hot there. If you want to write a piece to add to the post with a photo just pop me an email on [email protected] :)

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• 10 Best Places To Visit In August In Asia For An Easy-Breezy Holiday In 2024

23 Mar 2023

While the month of August offers a relief from the blazing sun, it also creates an air of apprehension when it comes to picking the right place for a holiday. It’s either too rainy everywhere or too hot. But, just like they say there’s no place that cannot be visited, we found out the 10 best places to visit in August in Asia that are absolutely ideal for vacationing the way you desire.

They have the perfect weather and offer just the right kind of experiences, which means if you visit any of these places for your holiday, you’d get the best of both worlds!

10 Best Places To Visit In August In Asia

Wondering where to go in Asia in August. Asia is a vast continent and every corner has a great holiday destination in store for you! While there is an endless number of places in this continent, some of the well-known and best places to visit in August in Asia are listed below!

• Langkawi In Malaysia
• Bangkok In Thailand
• Bali In Indonesia
• Malé In Maldives
• Dubai In UAE
• Colombo In Sri Lanka
• Antalya In Turkey
• Kerala In India
• St. Petersburg In Russia

1. Singapore

Since Singapore experiences a similar climate throughout the year, no time is a bad time to visit the Merlion land and the various other Singapore tourist attractions . It is definitely a place that would seem a bit more expensive than the others, but you can spend less and explore more if you plan wisely. And fortunately, there’s very less rain in Singapore in August , but definitely a lot of heat, which you can beat with a splash by chilling at Sentosa. Offering an array of exhilarating things to do with a number of phenomenal places to visit, Singapore is undeniably the best Asian country to visit in August. Weather: The temperature stays between 31 °C to 20 °C and the weather is either hot or gets windy with minimal rainfall as it’s the season of Southwest monsoon. Top things to do: Visiting Marina Bay Sands, spending an afternoon in Cloud Forest and watching the trees come to life at Gardens By The Bay, visiting Sentosa and its fun attractions, taking a day tour of Bintan Island, shopping at Bugis Street, and more Top Attractions: Lazarus Island, Sentosa Island, Gardens by the Bay, ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands, Helix Bridge Best places to stay:

• Marina Bay Sands
• The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
• Furama Riverfront Hotel

Must Read: Places To Visit In June In Asia: Explore Asia And Fall In Love With Its Marvels

2. Langkawi In Malaysia

Image Source

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in August in Asia . If you’ve been longing for an ideal beach vacation but haven’t been able to due to budget constraints, worry not. An otherwise expensive destination, Langkawi offers its fancy holiday experience for real cheap when it’s the month of August, as the onset of monsoon marks the end of the peak season. There is a huge drop in the airfares, accommodation rates & more, and absolutely zero effect in the experiences the island has in store. Malaysia is no doubt one of the best Asian countries to visit in August. Do not forget to add these places to visit in Langkawi to your list. Weather: The average temperature varies between 31° C to 25° C, and despite intermittent rains, there are long hours of sunshine. Top things to do: Enjoying breathtaking views from the cable car ride, indulging in thrilling experiences like parasailing, jet skiing & more, island hopping, exploring the Ayer Hangat Night Market on Friday, and more Top Attractions: Langkawi Sky Bridge, Cenang Beach, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Tanjung Rhu Beach, Langkawi Wildlife Park Best places to stay:

• Four Seasons Resort Langkawi
• The Danna Langkawi
• Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi

Suggested Read: 36 Best Places To Visit In Southeast Asia

3. Bangkok In Thailand

Thinking where to travel in Asia in August? Thailand has innumerable incredible options when it comes to picking a perfect holiday place. But if you’re a Shopaholic or shopping in Bangkok among other things to do in Bangkok , has been one of the major to-dos on your list, the month of August is the perfect time to fly down there. The Amazing Thailand Grand Sales (which begin in this month) have plenty of kick-ass deals that would keep you entertained when it rains for a while outside. This is one of the best places to visit in August in Asia . Weather: The temperature in Bangkok during August is usually between 33°C and 25°C. It’s partly sunny & partly cloudy, with beautiful downpours. Top things to do: Visiting the Wat Arun Temple, shopping at the best markets, taking a tour of the Grand Palace, pampering yourself with an oriental spa, and more Top Attractions: Temple of Dawn, Jim Thompson House, The Golden Mount, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Siam Paragon Best places to stay:

• Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok
• Riva Surya Bangkok

Suggested Read: 42 Best Places To Visit In Bangkok  That Will Change Your Opinion About The City

4. Bali In Indonesia

Unlike most places to visit in Southeast Asia in August that stay covered with endless rain or heat, Bali offers a perfectly pleasant weather as it is one of its driest months. From exploring its temples to indulging in some adventure at the best beaches in Bali , you can do everything that has been on your bucket list till date without travelling too far. With ideal weather conditions and a plethora of fun activities, Bali is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Asia in August. Weather: The average temperature stays around 27°C and the weather is dry, mostly sunny & there’s hardly any rain. Top things to do: Visiting the famous Uluwatu Temple, taking a day trip to Nusa Dua, indulging in water adventures like snorkeling, scuba diving & more, shopping exquisite souvenirs, and more Top Attractions: Lovina, Mount Batur, Seminyak, Pura Besakih, Kuta Beach, Tanah Lot, Ubud Best places to stay:

• The St. Regis Bali Resort
• Alila Vilas Uluwatu
• W Bali, Seminyak

Suggested Read: 23 Best Places To Visit In May In Asia For A Cool And Carefree Vacay

5. Malé In Maldives

Absolutely perfect for monsoon and beach lovers, Maldives is a haven to visit in August. Despite being one of the wettest months, the month of August has plenty of sunshine out there for its admirers. While there are a lot of places to visit in the Maldives , Malé is the best pick since it experiences a moderate temperature in comparison to the other places in the south.

Weather: The average temperature during August stays around 28°C, making the weather a bit hot throughout the day with a very minimal rainfall. Top things to do: Indulging in surfing, scuba diving & other water sports, taking a day trip to Hulhulé Island, visiting the Tsunami Monument, capturing the beauty of the beaches, and more Top Attractions: Maldives National Defense Force HQ, Sultan Park and National Museum, Male Market, Republic Square Best places to stay:

• Hotel Jen Malé
• Kurumba Maldives
• Hotel Octave Maldives

Suggested Read: Maldives For Couples Is The Ultimate Honeymoon Paradise And We Agree!

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6. Dubai In UAE

UAE is the best asian country to visit in August. Unlike the other destinations, Dubai is one place that stays hot or only becomes hotter throughout the year. So, if you’re not someone who embraces monsoon much, this city in the middle east is the paradise for you, and undeniably the best place to go in August in Asia . From thrilling experiences to breathtaking attractions, it has got everything in store to make your trip one of its kind. Weather: Dubai is quite hot in August in comparison to the other months, but definitely the best time to visit if you embrace the sun, love the summer dresses, and wish to escape the crowd. Top things to do in dubai : Visiting Burj Khalifa, exploring Palm Jumeirah & beating the heat at the Aquaventure Waterpark, buying some gold & glitter, dining in the Dhow Cruise, and more Top Tourist Places in Dubai : Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Fountain, Dubai Miracle Garden, The Dubai Mall, Dubai Frame, Global Village Best places to stay:

• Kempinski Residences Palm Jumeirah
• Raffles Dubai
• Park Hyatt Dubai

Suggested Read: 20 Best Places To Visit In Asia In October  That Make For The Best Tourist Destinations!

7. Colombo In Sri Lanka

While some places to visit in Sri Lanka experience monsoon in August, some like Colombo, which is located in the east boast and nice weather in Asia in August . At this time, you can find yourself a good hotel at reasonable prices, chill on the beaches around, shop for exquisite souvenirs, and enjoy a hassle-free sightseeing tour. Weather: The average temperature stays around 28 °C with seven hours of sunshine and barely any rainfall. Top things to do: Visiting the National Museum of Colombo & Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, shopping in Pettah, spending an evening at Galle Face Green, exploring the Colombo Dutch Museum, and more Top Attractions: Galle Face Green, Pettah Market, Gangaramaya temple, National Museum of Colombo, Pettah Floating Market Best places to stay:

• Taj Samudra
• Colombo Court Hotel & Spa
• Hotel Galadari

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Asia In December For An Extravagant Vacation

8. Antalya In Turkey

Situated partly in eastern Europe and partly in western Asia, Turkey is the next best place to visit in Asia in July & August . While there are numerous cities in the country with innumerable attractions, Antalya is the ultimate place to visit of all. Its serene beaches surrounded by exquisite hotels would make sure your Turkish getaway becomes your best holiday ever! Weather: The month of August is dry and sunny with some refreshing sea breeze, which makes it a vibrant time of the year for the tourists. Top things to do: Witnessing the Duden waterfalls, beach hopping, visiting the Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park & Aqualand Antalya Dolphinland, and more Top Attractions: Antalya Museum, Yivli Minare, Aspendos, Roman Fortress, Old Harbor, Kaleiçi Best places to stay:

• Delphin Imperial Hotel
• Titanic Beach Lara Resort
• Crowne Plaza Antalya

Suggested Read: Turkey Honeymoon: 13 Romantic Experiences To Let The Love Blossom

9. Kerala In India

One of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia in August , India has everything from the hills to the beaches. So, if the nature admirer & adventurer in you is looking for the best of both the worlds, head right down to Kerala for a luxurious yet pocket-friendly holiday. You can spend a week or two and witness the place in all its glory as the monsoon turns Kerala into a green paradise. Weather: The weather during August is warm and there are beautiful downpours throughout the month, which makes it a perfect place for having a relaxing holiday. Top things to do in kerala : Dining at the Cave Restaurant in Wayanad, staying in a houseboat in Kumarakom, indulging in water sports in Varkala, taking a day trip to Vagamon, and pampering yourself with Ayurveda treatments, a few things that make it the best place to holiday in August for this weather . Best Places to Visit in Kerala : Alleppey, Munnar, Kovalam, Kochi, Periyar National Park, Wayanad, Varkala Best places to stay:

• Taj Bekal Resort & Spa
• Kochi Marriott Hotel
• Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Vayalar

Suggested Read: 10 Amazing Water Parks In Kerala To Get You Through The Summer

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10. St. Petersburg In Russia

One of the best places to visit in August outside India is St. Petersburg. While the summers in Russia are warm and humid, the surreal city of St. Petersburg boasts the best weather during the mid of August. You can comfortably head out for sightseeing and even attend the crazy summer festivals. Though, the only downside is the endless number of tourists and queues. So, it’s best to plan your Russia holiday in advance for a hassle-free experience, making it one of the best holiday destinations in August for couples . Weather: The temperature varies between 13 °C to 21 °C, which makes the weather perfectly ideal for heading out at any time of the day. Top things to do: Visiting the Hermitage Museum, Peterhof Palace, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, Russian Museum & more, savoring the local cuisines, shopping in the Nevsky Prospekt or Sadovaya Street, and more Top Attractions: Hermitage Museum, St Isaac’s Cathedral, Peterhof Palace, Palace Square, Church on the Saviour of Spilled Blood Best places to stay:

• The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel
• Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg
• Matisov Domik

Suggested Read: 15 Top Places To Visit In Asia To Add To Your Bucket List

What To Pack In August For Holiday In Asia

Image Credit: Pixabay Since August is a rainfall month in most parts of Asia, you should be prepared for it. Here are some important items you should not leave without putting them in your backpack.

• Mosquito repellent
• Ziplock bags to keep your electronic gears safe
• Cotton clothes

Suggested Read: 14 Honeymoon Destinations In Asia In December To Celebrate Your Love Story

Events In Asia In August

Image Source If you are planning a vacation in Asia in August, here are some events and festivals that you will get an opportunity to observe.

India’s Independence Day Independence Day in India is celebrated on 15th August. You will observe patriotic festivities in schools and organizations. All public places are decorated in the tricolor of India’s flag. There is tight security everywhere to prohibit any threat from terrorism.

Malaysia’s Independence Day August 31 is the Independence Day of Malaysia and is also known as Hari Merdeka. Military processions, fireworks, and parades are organized to mark the freedom. Do not miss the spectacular fireworks show in Kuala Lumpur.

Singapore National Day August 9 is marked as the Independence Day of Singapore from Malaysia. It is one of the most exciting times to be on this island as the festivities and decorations are amazing. It is a very busy day in Singapore.

Obon Obon festival in Japan is celebrated to custom the honor the ancestors. Though it is not a national festival, Japanese travel to pay dues to their ancestors. The celebration is marked with lanterns, folk dances, and events. The dates of the Bon festival may vary.

Queen’s Birthday in Thailand Since it is the Queen’s birthday, August 12 is kind of a big day in Thailand. Queen Sirikit Kitiyakara is a beloved figure. So, her birthday is celebrated with plenty of food and parades on the street. Chiang Mai and Bangkok are the best places to take part in the festivities.

Hungry Ghosts Festival Hungry Ghost is a traditional Taoist and Buddhist festival celebrated on 15th August. It is believed that the gates of hell are opened and the ghosts of ancestors walk the earth. Food is left out. There is an exhibition held in Victoria Park where customs and traditions are on display. It is an amazing opportunity for travelers to explore the customs and traditions of this city.

Further Read: 19 Places To Visit In August In The World That Will Knock Your Socks Off

So, which of these from the list of best places to visit in August in Asia have you picked for your holiday? Do, let us know in the comments below. Also, don’t forget to customize your tour with TravelTriangle for a hassle-free and memorable experience!

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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 August In Asia

Still confused? See if this helps:

Is it safe to go on a trip during Covid times?

You need to be quite careful if you are traveling during Covid. Get yourself tested and carry your negative RT PCR Report as you may have to produce it at the entry-exit points. Remain masked and maintain social distance. Don’t be a part of public gatherings, social celebrations, religious processions, etc. for a safe travel experience. Keep sanitizing your hands regularly after touching surfaces or whenever required. In case you get positive symptoms while traveling, isolate yourself as early as possible and get yourself tested.

Which country in Asia is best to visit in August?

The following are the famous places that are ideal to be explored in the month of August: 1. Singapore 2. Langkawi in Malaysia 3. Bangkok in Thailand 4. Bali in Indonesia 5. Malé in Maldives 6. Dubai in UAE 7. Colombo in Sri Lanka 8. Antalya in Turkey

What is the weather like in Asia in August?

The average temperature in Asia in the month of August is around 17°C across the continent. However, there remain some hotspots including Goa, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok which are much hotter than other places in the continent. You might also experience tropical rains in August.

Is August a good month to visit Thailand?

Thailand is an exotic escape that can be visited throughout the year. However, November to April is the best time to plan your expedition. The country experiences heaviest rainfall in the month of September on the west coast, while the east coast gets its highest rainfall in November. August is a summer month and one can plan a holiday in this month.

How is Vietnam in August?

Vietnam experiences monsoon in the month of August and this is the midpoint of the five-month monsoon season. During this time, Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta witness heavy rainfalls, making sightseeing a bit challenging. The temperature in August averages around 27°C.

Which countries are hot in August?

Countries in Asia are ideal to plan a holiday in the month of August. The following countries remain hot in the month of August - Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Which is the best country to visit in August?

There are many countries that are worth exploring in the month of August. Countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Maldives, Dubai, and Sri Lanka are great for a trip in August.

Where should I go in August?

Countries in Asia are known for hosting amazing holidays in August. Some of the places where one can go in August are Langkawi, India, Nepal, Bangkok, and Dubai.

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• The 6 Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia in August 2024

In August, the average temperature of Southeast Asia slightly drops, to about 29°C (84°F).

The rainy season dominates in most Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. But Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia are exceptions, where August stands out as one of the driest months and you could expect promising sunshine and great opportunities for outdoor fun.

If you'd like to travel with fewer interruptions from rain, you're advised to visit the following six countries: Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand.

1. Indonesia: Sunny Tropical Beach Paradise

• Recommended stay: 1 to 2 weeks

August is one of the best times to visit Indonesia : August has brightest skies, pleasant temperatures of 23–30°C (73–86°F), and calm seas.

August's ideal weather offers you a well-rounded range of experiences. A classic Indonesia itinerary typically covers Bali, the Gili Islands, Java, and Jakarta. Whether you want to spend some quality family time together or celebrate your big events, there are plenty of options:

• Witness postcard-perfect sunsets and indulge in the laid-back vibe.
• Dive into water activities and island-hopping tours in Bali and the Gili Islands.
• Soak up its characteristic culture from the ancient temples, an authentic royal high tea experience, and a family visit.
• Trek up volcanic mountains and venture into jungle forests in Bali or Java.
• Create your own souvenirs for your family and friends during a hands-on experience.

Insider Tips: With the great weather come higher prices and a huge demand. You're advised to make your booking at least 3 months in advance.

>>>Further reading:

• how to plan a family trip to Southeast Asia
•   planning a couple's trip to Southeast Asia

2. Malaysia: Cultural Crossroads and Water Fun

• Recommended stay: 1 to 3 weeks

Unlike the uniformly dry weather in July, August brings light rainfall to central and western Malaysia, though dry conditions continue in eastern Malaysia.

Therefore, if you travel to Malaysia in August, you're advised to visit eastern Malaysia on Borneo for mostly dry weather , where you could enjoy sandy beaches and water activities.

If you don't mind some rain, explore the cultural hubs of Kuala Lumpur and Malacca.

Malaysia unfolds a myriad of experiences:

• Explore the cultural diversity of Kuala Lumpur and Malacca.
• Dive into the wild in Borneo: snorkeling among marine life, feeding orangutans, and spotting whale sharks.
• Indulge in the stunning beaches or observe the turtles at Turtle Sanctuary Beach on the Perhentian Islands.
• Enjoy free days in the water bungalows on Sipadan Island.
• Experience local culture during the local Hungry Ghost Festival.

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

3. Singapore: Modern Marvels and a Window into Asian Culture

• Recommended stay: 4 to 5 days

Singapore, doesn't have distinct dry and wet seasons like some other equatorial regions. It experiences moderate rainfall all year round, including in August, with higher rainfall from November to January. At the tail end of the busy summer vacation in Southeast Asia, you could expect fewer crowds later in August.

Singapore beckons travelers to enjoy the following experiences in August:

• Go for outdoor adventures, such as light hiking and biking.
• Explore the iconic Gardens by the Bay, featuring the stunning Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.
• Uncover the secrets of the vibrant cultural diversity in Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam.
• Soak up the atmosphere at the indoor attractions at Sentosa, such as S.E.A. Aquarium and Universal Studios Singapore.
• Say goodnight to the wild animals during the world's first Night Safari.

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

4. Vietnam: Partly Sunny and Great for Rustic Adventures

Similar to July, temperatures are still quite hot. Rainfall peaks in the north and south, while central areas experience only moderate precipitation.

Weather-wise, central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, and Nha Trang) is the best place to visit in August.

Compared to the high travel season, traveling in August is much cheaper in the north and south . However, storms or typhoons might affect a cruise in Halong Bay, so it is best to prepare a plan B.

Vietnam invites you to embrace these experiences:

• Gain an insight into Vietnam's ancient royal cities in Hue and Hoi An.
• Unwind on the sun-kissed beaches of Da Nang and Nha Trang.
• Cycle around the rice paddies and say "hi" to working locals in rustic Mai Chau or Ninh Binh.
• Navigate the Mekong River on a week-long cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia.
• If time allows, immerse yourself in the enchanting Full Moon Lantern Festival in Hoi An.

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

5. Thailand: Top Choice for Budget-Conscious Travelers

• Recommended stay: 10 days to 2 weeks

In August, Thailand experiences similarly hot summer temperatures, with an average of around 29°C (84°F). The northern mountains and the wetter southwestern coast have slightly cooler temperatures, averaging 27°C (81°F).

In the middle of the rainy season, intense downpours are expected. But you could expect drier weather in central Thailand (Bangkok and Hua Hin) and east coast islands (Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao) . With more tranquil vibes and favorable prices (about 40% discount), traveling to these places is still worthwhile.

Thailand invites you to explore the following delights:

• Discover iconic temples, floating markets, and railway markets in the bustling metropolis of Bangkok.
• Relax on the photogenic beaches and delve into the water activities in Koh Samui.
• Take advantage of the best scuba diving opportunities in Koh Tao.
• Cool down in the royal summer resort in Hua Hin.
• Escape the rain by taking part in interesting indoor activities, such as a cooking class, a massage, a Muay Thai show, and a ladyboy show.

You can find more guidance on planning a trip to Thailand  or planning a family trip to Thailand . Or you can check the sample itineraries of Thailand for 10 days , 12 days , 14 days and 21 days >>>

6. Myanmar: Ancient Splendors Amid Rain-Kissed Landscapes

August brings abundant rainfall to Myanmar and its weather is still hot, with an average temperature of 29°C (84°F).

Bagan and Mandalay are great places to visit during August because they receive significantly less rainfall than Yangon, Inle Lake, and other tourist attractions.

Myanmar unfolds its treasures for exploration and these are most recommendable for August:

• Visit Mandalay Palace, explore U Bein Bridge, and take a boat ride on the Irrawaddy River in Mandalay.
• Watch a sunrise over ancient temples in Bagan.
• Visit Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.
• Be like a Burmese local and experience local village life for a day.

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

Read more about the Top 10 Kid-Friendly Destinations  or  the best activities for families  in Southeast Asia >>>

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8 Best Asia destinations in August of 2023

Finding places to go with good or even acceptable weather in Asia is difficult in August because it’s very hot in the northern Asian cities and it’s the beginning of the rainy season in most southern Asia cities. Still, there are some great choices on the list below, including a few places that are worth visiting even when it is very hot.

We’ve got big cities and even some beach destinations on the list below, and prices for August of 2023 are actually down compared to the last few years, so it’s a good time for budget travelers looking for something new.

Important August 2023 holidays in Asia

• August 12 – Queen’s Birthday Holiday in Thailand (major public holiday)
• August 15 – National Liberation Day of Korea (major public holiday)
• August 15 – India Independence Day (major public holiday)

8 Best destinations in Asia for August

Bali, indonesia.

• August avg high: 83F/28C
• August avg low: 76F/24C
• August avg precip: 0.9″/2.3cm

Most people head to the very crowded beach area of Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak, or the purpose-built resort area in the south called Nusa Dua. The arts and crafts capital is Ubud, which is in the foothills so it’s even a bit cooler. More adventurous travelers will head to Lovina on the north coast, which is as mellow and pleasant as all of Bali used to be twenty years ago. We include Bali on our guide to the  best unusual destinations around the world .

The island of Bali was almost completely closed to tourism for two years during the pandemic and it has been struggling to rebound. Partly as a result of this, hotel prices are insanely low in 2023 and the sometimes look like misprints. That said, it’s probably best booking a place higher up the review scale because even if you CAN get a hotel room for US$20 per night, you can often get an amazing place if you can afford double or triple that amount.

• Good 3-star hotels in August from $14 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in August from $23 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in August from $11 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Bali >>> Bali prices and travel tips

Tokyo, Japan

• August avg high: 87F/31C
• August avg precip: 6.1″/15.3cm

All of Japan is interesting in its own way, and getting out of Tokyo is wise if you have the time. It’s easy to take high-speed trains to  Kyoto  and  Osaka , which are also very interesting, not to mention a bit cheaper as well.

• Good 3-star hotels in August from $49 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in August from $81 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in August from $16 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Tokyo >>> Tokyo prices and travel tips

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• August avg high: 90F/32C
• August avg low: 74F/23C
• August avg precip: 6.1″/12.5cm

If you are flying a long way to get to KL you probably also want to visit more in Malaysia so you should consider Penang in the north and Malacca on your way down to Singapore. It’s all hot in August, but they are used to it here at least. The hotel prices in 2023 are very low by normal standards so it’s a great year to visit, but be aware that the cheapest rooms in many budget hotels are those with no windows at all. After cheaping out on that a couple times I don’t recommend it, so pay a bit more for a window.

• Good 3-star hotels in August from $24 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in August from $27 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in August from $7 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Kuala Lumpur >>> Kuala Lumpur prices and travel tips

• August avg low: 78F/26C
• August avg precip: 7.7″/19.3cm

Singapore is known as a shopping city, but there is plenty more to do here as well. The Chinatown area is filled with stand-out temples and other sights, and some of the best food in the region is there as well. You can cool off in the enormous casino in the basement of the Marina Bay Sands, and take a short tour of the rooftop infinity pool for a reasonable price as well.

• Good 3-star hotels in August from $126 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in August from $145 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Singapore >>> Singapore prices and travel tips

Colombo, Sri Lanka

• August avg high: 86F/30C
• August avg low: 77F/25C
• August avg precip: 4.7″/11.8cm

Sri Lanka has interesting hill towns and scenic forests in its interior, and some very nice beaches along the southern coast. You can easily spend two weeks in this country and wish you had longer. There aren’t many hostels and cheap hotels, but you do get pretty good value if you can spend a bit more than that.

It’s worth following the news because Sri Lanka has struggled with shortages, inflation, and political unrest in the last couple of years and it may still be too soon to visit in 2023. On the other hand, if these things are more under control it could be a good time to visit with smaller crowds and probably lower prices to go along with an appreciative tourism sector. The advertised room rates for summer of 2023 are unbelievably low, so it could be a good time for bargain hunters.

• Good 3-star hotels in August from $12 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in August from $32 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in August from $8 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Colombo >>> Colombo prices and travel tips

Bangkok, Thailand

• August avg high: 91F/33C
• August avg precip: 7.8″/19.5cm

In addition to all of the famous temples and other sights, Bangkok has about 20 large shopping malls, most of them next to each other in the Siam Square area in the center. With this in mind you can spend all day inside, searching for bargains and having lunch, and then go out in the evenings when it’s not so ridiculously hot anymore.

Thailand is open in 2023 and easier to get into than most other countries in the region so it’s a good first place to stop, as usual.

• Good 4-star hotels in August from $24 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Bangkok >>> Bangkok prices and travel tips

Malé, Maldives

• August avg high: 84F/29C
• August avg low: 79F/26C
• August avg precip: 6.9″/17.3cm

August is a bit rainy in parts of this huge island chain, but the good news is that the storms almost always last 30 minutes or so, and often they take place overnight. The weather here is almost the same all year round, and since most people spend their time on the beach or out over the water, there is usually a pleasant breeze that keeps you comfortable.

The situation in the Maldives in 2023 is quite good for potential visitors. There are no restrictions for incoming visitors and generally it’s an extremely safe place to be because visitors will spend almost 100% of their time outdoors or in their private hotel bedrooms.

• Good 3-star hotels in August from $76 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in August from $142 for two people

>>> Malé prices and travel tips

Nha Trang, Vietnam

• August avg high: 89F/32C
• August avg precip: 2.1″/5.3cm

Hotels, food, and alcohol here are very cheap, even by southeast Asia standards. You won’t find the glamorous shopping centers and chain restaurants like you find on Phuket, but if you don’t need those sorts of things you’ll probably enjoy it here a lot.

Hotel prices in Nha Trang in 2023 are extremely low so it could be a good spot for bargain seekers looking for a place to hang out for a couple weeks or more. Food and drinks are cheap here as well. The hotels with very low rates will be hoping to make a few commissions on booking tours for their guests, and it’s actually a worthwhile trade because it can feel a bit dodgy to book with independent agencies in Vietnam.

• Good 3-star hotels in August from $10 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in August from $14 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in August from $6 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Nha Trang >>> Nha Trang prices and travel tips

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15 Best Places to Visit in Asia in August 2024

There’s a seductive allure to the month of August. A magical, velvet-like transition from the scorching summer heat into the anticipatory cradle of fall. And nowhere does this allure magnify more exquisitely than in the sprawling continent of Asia. So, pack your bags, summon your wanderlust, and come along as we unfurl the mesmerizing carpet to the 15 best Asian destinations to visit in August.

Table of Contents

Check Out These 15 Enchanting Destinations in Asia for August Travel:

1. bali, indonesia – the island of gods.

Welcome to the Island of Gods, a place where ethereal beauty marries culture and heritage. In August, the Bali sun sings its most harmonious tune, casting a gentle, warm glow on its terraced rice fields, centuries-old temples, and stunning beaches.

Engage in a spiritual cleansing at the Pura Tirta Empul, indulge in a traditional Balinese massage, or simply bask in the tranquil waters of Seminyak Beach. Bali in August is a serene symphony awaiting your presence.

What to do:

• Pura Tirta Empul : Participate in a purification ritual at this Hindu water temple.
• Balinese Massage : Relieve your stress with traditional Balinese massage therapies.
• Beach Basking : Soak in the sun at Seminyak Beach or the secluded Padang Padang Beach.

2. Kyoto, Japan – An Eloquent Encounter with History

Kyoto is like a brilliantly woven tapestry of history and tradition, its threads spun with an invincible Japanese spirit. The city is adorned with 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the mild August weather provides an ideal backdrop for exploring them.

Participate in the annual Gozan no Okuribi festival, witness the beautiful ancient temples, or partake in a traditional tea ceremony. Kyoto will stir your soul and write a haiku of memories in your heart.

• Gozan no Okuribi : Witness this symbolic bonfire festival lighting up the city’s mountains.
• Temple Tour : Visit the famous Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
• Tea Ceremony : Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

3. Leh-Ladakh, India – A Symphony of Surreal Landscapes

Elevating about 3,000 meters above sea level, Leh-Ladakh is an ethereal symphony of majestic mountains, serene lakes, and sprawling deserts. August is the time when the rugged terrains of Ladakh come alive with verdant vegetation, while the cloudless sky provides excellent opportunities for stargazing.

Undertake the challenging Khardung-La Pass drive or find your inner peace at the Thiksey Monastery , Leh-Ladakh is a stirring sonnet written by nature itself.

• Khardung-La Drive : Drive through one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
• Thiksey Monastery : Immerse yourself in Buddhist traditions at this beautiful monastery.
• Pangong Lake : Revel in the beauty of this high-altitude lake, famous for its changing colors.
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4. Bagan, Myanmar – The Sea of Temples

Imagine a landscape dotted with over 2000 temples and pagodas; that’s Bagan for you. In August, just after the monsoon showers have washed away the dust, Bagan shimmers like a freshly painted masterpiece.

Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or explore the Ananda Temple and Sulamani Guphaya Temple. Bagan is a mystical journey of spiritual awakening.

• Hot Air Ballooning : Enjoy an unforgettable aerial view of Bagan’s temple landscape.
• Ananda Temple : Explore this architectural masterpiece and its four massive standing Buddha images.
• Sulamani Guphaya Temple : Visit this iconic temple, known for its intricate brickwork.

5. Hoi An, Vietnam – A Charming Lantern Lit Town

The quaint city of Hoi An, with its antique houses, Chinese temples, and iconic Japanese bridge, is a romantic escape from the rigors of urban life. During August, the warm weather is perfect for enjoying local cuisine in open-air restaurants or participating in the Full Moon Lantern Festival.

Take a bicycle ride across the Old Town or learn about local craftsmanship, Hoi An will cradle you in its charming old-world grace.

• Full Moon Lantern Festival : Witness the magic as the town turns off its lights, and thousands of lanterns float down the river.
• Old Town Exploration : Discover Hoi An’s old town with its preserved buildings and ancient shophouses.
• Cooking Class : Learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes from local chefs.

6. Luang Prabang, Laos – The Crown Jewel of Laos

Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos , is a delightful blend of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures. August sees the city in a lively spirit, inviting visitors to witness the grandeur of its temples like Wat Xiengthong or explore the enchanting Kuang Si Waterfalls.

Get up early to participate in the traditional alms-giving ceremony, or wander through the Night Markets, Luang Prabang will leave you enchanted.

• Alms Giving Ceremony : Participate in this Buddhist tradition of giving alms to monks.
• Wat Xiengthong : Visit this iconic temple known for its ornate carvings and mosaics.
• Kuang Si Waterfalls : Cool off in the turquoise pools of this stunning waterfall.

7. Bhutan – The Kingdom of Happiness

Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan is a beautiful paradox of ancient tradition and modern sensibility. August paints Bhutan in the myriad colors of wildflowers and provides ideal weather for hiking.

Visit the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the Punakha Dzong, or the capital city Thimphu. Bhutan’s promise is simple – a contented, peaceful, and happy escape from the rest of the world.

• Tiger’s Nest Monastery : Hike to this sacred Buddhist site perched on a cliff.
• Punakha Dzong : Explore this stunning fortress at the confluence of two rivers.
• Thimphu : Experience the unique blend of modern and traditional life in Bhutan’s capital.
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• Click Bhutan More Itineraries

8. Chiang Mai, Thailand – The Rose of the North

Chiang Mai , the Rose of the North, is a vibrant city with a wealth of tradition, adventure, and mouth-watering cuisine. August offers moderate rainfalls, making it an ideal time for indoor activities and lesser crowds.

Explore the countless temples, enroll in a Thai cooking class, or spend time at an ethical elephant camp. Chiang Mai is an unforgettable melody of experiences.

• Temple Visit : Discover the city’s history and culture at Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang.
• Thai Cooking Class : Learn to cook Thai cuisine with locally grown ingredients.
• Elephant Camp : Spend a day with elephants in an ethical sanctuary.
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9. Beijing, China – A Walk Through Dynasties

Beijing is a city where the old-world charm seamlessly blends with the modern era. August is an excellent time to visit, with the weather perfect for outdoor exploration.

Walk along the Great Wall, explore the Forbidden City, or seek tranquility in the Summer Palace. Beijing is an opulent banquet of culture, history, and delectable Chinese cuisine.

• Great Wall : Walk on this ancient marvel and enjoy the panoramic views.
• Forbidden City : Discover the imperial past of China in this palatial architectural complex.
• Summer Palace : Wander around this beautiful royal park, famous for its landscape design.

10. Siem Reap, Cambodia – Gateway to the Ancient World

Siem Reap, the gateway to the ancient world of Angkor Wat, is a city teeming with history, culture, and culinary delights. August falls into the green season, making the Angkor Wat complex less crowded and its surroundings verdantly beautiful.

Explore the world’s largest religious monument, cruise on the Tonle Sap Lake, or relish authentic Cambodian cuisine. Siem Reap is a journey back in time.

• Angkor Wat : Explore this iconic temple complex during sunrise.
• Tonle Sap Lake : Take a boat tour of Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.
• Khmer Cuisine : Savor the local flavors in a traditional Khmer meal.

11. Seoul, South Korea – A City of Contrasts

Seoul is a city of delightful contrasts – age-old palaces standing tall beside towering skyscrapers, and traditional markets buzzing beside sprawling shopping districts. August in Seoul is vibrant, with many festivals such as the Seoul Fringe Festival and Seoul Dessert Fair.

From exploring the Gyeongbokgung Palace to shopping in Myeongdong, from hiking up Mount Bukhan to partying in Hongdae, Seoul’s charm is irresistibly magnetic.

• Gyeongbokgung Palace : Experience the royal culture of Korea in this grand palace.
• Myeongdong : Shop for the latest trends and Korean beauty products.
• Mount Bukhan : Hike up this mountain for a splendid view of the city.

12. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – A Cosmopolitan Paradise

Kuala Lumpur is a city that epitomizes diversity – in its people, culture, and food. August, with its clear skies and moderate temperatures, is perfect for exploring this metropolis.

Visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, shop at the Central Market, or explore the labyrinthine Batu Caves. Kuala Lumpur is a multicultural kaleidoscope waiting to dazzle you.

• Petronas Twin Towers : Admire the view of the city from the Skybridge and the observation deck.
• Central Market : Shop for traditional Malaysian goods and souvenirs.
• Batu Caves : Visit this limestone hill with a series of caves and cave temples.

13. Singapore – The Lion City

Singapore , Asia’s metropolitan melting pot, offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Celebrate Singapore’s National Day Parade with impressive fireworks, marvel at nature’s technological adaptation at Gardens by the Bay, immerse yourself in cinematic adventures at Universal Studios and explore the rich tapestry of Asian flavors at the city’s bustling Hawker Centres, a true gourmet’s paradise.

• Gardens by the Bay : Marvel at the Supertree Grove and the world’s largest glass greenhouse.
• Universal Studios : Enjoy the thrilling rides, shows, and attractions of this movie-themed park.
• Hawker Centres : Experience local Singaporean food at places like Lau Pa Sat and Maxwell Road Hawker Centre.
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• Check Singapore More Itineraries

14. Istanbul, Turkey – The City of Two Continents

Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents, a blend of Eastern charm and Western progress. August in Istanbul is filled with music festivals and cultural events, an ideal time for visitors.

Explore the historical Sultanahmet district, shop at the Grand Bazaar, or cruise on the Bosphorus. Istanbul is a city that whispers tales of ancient empires and modern ambitions.

• Sultanahmet District : Visit historic sites like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace.
• Grand Bazaar : Shop for Turkish ceramics, rugs, spices, and jewelry.
• Bosphorus Cruise : Take a boat trip on this strait that divides Europe and Asia.

15. Kathmandu, Nepal – The Abode of the Gods

Kathmandu , nestled amid Nepal’s towering peaks, is a sacred valley steeped in spirituality. Witness the grandeur of the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, delve into history at the city’s Durbar Squares, and seize the opportunity for a breathtaking Everest scenic flight. Kathmandu offers an unforgettable fusion of natural beauty and vibrant culture.

• Swayambhunath Stupa : Climb up to this ancient religious site, also known as the Monkey Temple.
• Durbar Squares : Explore these royal squares of the old kingdoms of Kathmandu Valley.
• Everest Scenic Flight : Take a mountain flight for a bird’s eye view of Mount Everest and the Himalayas.
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And there you have it! 15 of the best places to visit in Asia this August. Each of these destinations, in its own unique way, captures the essence of Asia, and their diversity mirrors the continent’s vibrant, colorful spirit. So, get your passports ready, pick your favorite spot (or spots), and step out for the Asian escapade of a lifetime. Bon voyage!

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Best places to visit in asia.

From megacities to remote islands, Asia's top travel spots offer a hearty dose of adventure, ancient history and culture. And with most Asian destinations now fully open after years of pandemic restrictions, there has never been a better time to plan a trip. After considering local prices, accessibility and the variety of attractions in each destination, along with traveler feedback, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Asia. Contribute to next year's list by casting your vote below.

Sagarmatha National Park

Railay beach, guilin and lijiang river national park.

If your dream vacation involves posting up on a postcard-worthy beach, the Maldives is for you. This far-flung destination, which is located about 370 miles from civilization in the Indian Ocean, is made up of more than 1,100 idyllic islands (roughly 200 of which are inhabited). The Maldives feature lush tropical landscapes, unparalleled white sand beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters and coral reefs that prompt extensive exploration. The best way to experience this slice of paradise? Stay in one of many overwater bungalows , of course.

Tokyo is as fast-paced as cities come – it's the most populated city in the world, after all. Japan's capital features neon-lit skyscrapers and crowded streets that novice visitors may find dizzying, but its one-of-a-kind offerings can't be missed. Spend days touring quirky museums, exploring fascinating architecture or visiting Odaiba for its premier shopping scene. Or, take in some quieter, more peaceful moments at a holy site like the Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple. Tokyo's unrivaled gastronomic landscape (think: sushi, ramen, sky-high cocktail bars and more Michelin darlings than you could hope to visit) also makes it a bucket list destination for foodies.

Phuket, Thailand's elongated beaches and cerulean waters embody a paradise that few other Asian destinations can rival. Besides swimming and relaxing on the beach, visitors can take traditional, wooden longtail boat tours to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay to see the surreal limestone rock formations that rise from the sea. The towering Big Buddha statue is also a top attraction, while Phuket's buzzing beach clubs and nightlife options hold appeal for those looking to let loose. What's more, like most destinations in Thailand, travelers can find relatively affordable lodging options here.

This Nepalese national park is famous for housing the behemoth that is Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, and promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, it is important to know that Sagarmatha is not just Everest. The UNESCO-listed park also offers several other sky-high Himalayan peaks, as well as sweeping valleys, scenic glaciers, deep gorges and incredible wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas. Just note, seeing the park's top attractions typically requires at least two weeks of trekking, and due to Sagarmatha's high elevation and rocky, steep terrain, a trip here isn't for the faint of heart.

A British colony until 1997, Hong Kong's strong Western influence sets it apart from China's mainland metropolises. Beyond Hong Kong's sleek, towering skyscrapers (best admired from Victoria Peak), visitors can find natural and cultural gems on the more than 250 outlying islands, such as Lantau Island, or shop the city's bustling street markets. Dim sum is a must, but Hong Kong's robust dining scene also offers everything from street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. And when the sun goes down, watch the Symphony of Lights laser show dazzle the skyline along Victoria Harbor.

Tucked among lush mountains in northwest Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a sized-down version of Bangkok's buzz paired with a tranquil culture and natural beauty. Your urban itinerary should include tuk-tuk rides, tours of breathtaking temples like Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara and Wat Phra Singh, trips to night markets and a cooking class to try your hand at pad Thai. Then, step outside of the city walls to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary or two and a wander through beautiful Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

History lovers and Instagrammers alike will revel in the sites of Kyoto. The city, which used to be Japan's capital until imperial times, is awash with centuries-old shrines and temples, including the gilded Kinkakuji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine that dates back to A.D. 711. In addition to saving time for religious sites, be sure to visit the famous Philosopher's Path, preferably during cherry blossom season, and the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to kaiseki: a traditional multicourse meal native to Japan. For another essential Japanese experience, stay at one of the many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Kyoto. 

From the moment you touchdown at Singapore Changi Airport (a tourist destination in itself), Singapore shows off its futuristic embellishment. But this Southeast Asia jewel is also unique for its amalgamation of cultures. This fusion takes form in the city's colorful neighborhoods, eclectic culinary scene and overall modern atmosphere. After shopping on flashy Orchard Road and chowing down in cultural enclaves like Little India or Chinatown, head downtown to take in the towering skyscrapers from Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer or the sky-high Gardens by the Bay.

The island nation of Sri Lanka, located off the southern tip of India, boasts rainforests, beaches and ruins without the tourist crowds of other popular Asian destinations. Despite its small footprint, Sri Lanka features 26 national parks, many of which are ideal for a safari excursion to encounter elephants, leopards and sloth bears. Meanwhile, ancient sites like Sigiriya, a 600-foot-high fortress, and the temples of Polonnaruwa hold their own appeal, and the palm-fringed golden beaches that line the shores are never too far away for those seeking a more laid-back vacation.

Hanoi is perfect for first-time Vietnam visitors, with tranquil lakes offsetting its fast-paced bustle and darting motorbikes. The country's capital offers plenty in the way of history, culture, shopping, dining and natural splendor. Start your day off with a Vietnamese coffee, then head to Hanoi's central Old Quarter for a stroll through the many narrow, colorful streets and a taste of mouthwatering street food. After that, check out one of the city's many temples, including the ancient Temple of Literature, which dates back to the 11th century, or head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a must-visit for history buffs.

Bali's natural beauty is so profound, travelers have been known to refer to the Indonesian destination as "heaven on Earth." Here, lush rainforests, picturesque mountains, sweeping valleys and scenic beaches all sit side by side. You'll also find a handful of serene temples in this Southeast Asia hot spot, including Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples – both excellent places to catch a sunset. And no first-time trip to Bali would be complete without on a visit to Ubud, Bali's cultural capital and home of the region's famous rice terraces.

Whether you visit in spring (for cherry blossoms), summer (for climbing), autumn (for foliage) or winter (for nearby ski resorts), Japan's highest peak and imposing attraction is sure to capture your attention. Mount Fuji lies about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, perfect for a daytrip from the city or a glimpse from a train ride, but this active volcano is also worthy of deeper exploration. Base yourself in the Fuji Five Lakes area to enjoy picture-perfect views at Arakurayama Sengen Park or from one of Lake Kawaguchiko's onsens (hot springs), and don't leave without sampling local hoto noodles.  

If you only have time to go to one beach in Thailand, make it Railay Beach, one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Located in the country's Krabi province, Railay Beach features glistening white sands and is surrounded by limestone rock formations (covered in leafy green vegetation) that jut out from the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the area's natural wonders with a rock climbing excursion or go for a nighttime kayak trip to see bioluminescent plankton. As if this beach destination couldn't get more alluring, you're only able to reach it by boat. Daytrips from nearby Ao Nang are popular among travelers.

Siem Reap is the home of Angkor Wat, an ornate Buddhist temple built in the 12th century that is believed to be the largest religious monument in the world. The impressive landmark is just one of many must-sees within Cambodia's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. The complex also includes the equally detailed Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm Temple. Because of the immense popularity of Angkor (the site receives millions of visitors per year), you may want to travel during a shoulder month like March or November to avoid bumping elbows with fellow travelers.

Travel to the capital of Indian state Rajasthan to marvel at the "Pink City's" incredible architecture. Hawa Mahal, a pink sandstone palace that was modeled after Hindu god Krishna's crown, is Jaipur's biggest claim to fame. The property's astounding 953 honeycomb-patterned windows allowed the original ladies of the royal family to view the comings and goings of the Indian city without being seen. Other structures worth seeing are the Jaigarh Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays larger-than-life astronomical instruments.

Thailand's capital city is filled to the brim with eye-catching Hindu sites, nonstop nightlife and incredible Thai cuisine. Sacred sites like Wat Arun and Wat Pho are pockets of calm amidst Bangkok's skyscrapers. Shoppers can enjoy the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world's largest street markets, or venture to one of the floating markets located outside the city. While in Bangkok, grab as much grub as possible from the street stalls, and at night, you won't want to miss the lofty views from one of the many rooftop bars.

This national park is so loved and respected, its image is featured on China's paper currency. Guilin and Lijiang River National Park is located in the Guangxi region in the southeastern part of China. The Lijiang River runs about 50 miles from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing stunning landscapes and towering green karsts (eroded limestone) along the way. The best way to take in the otherworldly scenery is by boat cruise, though you may want to splurge on a luxury option since the trip can take up to five hours. Tourists who prefer to travel on their own time can also hike or bike along the river.

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25 Exciting Places to Visit in Asia in Summer

What are your plans during the summer break? If you have extra vacation time and eyeing a summer trip to Asia, then you’re in luck. 

Whether you’re looking to escape to a beautiful island or want to explore the outdoors, Asia has many places for you to visit.

During the summertime (June through August), some destinations will experience intense heat and humidity and monsoon season, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying yourself. 

Here are the 25 best summer destinations in Asia to check out. We’ve collaborated with our favorite travel blogging friends and highlighted cities and areas from West Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and East Asia. Read more to find out popular to non-touristy and quiet spots that you can visit. 

Enjoy your time off!

Click to jump to certain areas of this post. 

• West Asia : Jordan
• Southeast Asia : Vietnam, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia
• South Asia : India
• East Asia : Japan, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea

Check out our other posts in this series for more travel inspiration: 

• Asia Destinations in Spring
• Fall Destinations in Asia
• Where to Go in Asia in Winter Season

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

Map of Places to Visit in Asia in Summer

Click on the map to see a larger view of where to go in Asia during the summertime. Credit: Map data: Google

Summer Spot in West Asia

1. petra and wadi rum, jordan.

By Ben, Ticket 4 Two Please

Recommended Month to Visit: August

Jordan is a fascinating Asian country to visit in summer and nowhere is this more apparent than at the country’s two most famous sites – Petra and Wadi Rum . 

First up on your Asian adventure is Petra. While visiting one of the wonders of the world at the height of the Middle Eastern summer can be challenging, you’re guaranteed to have fantastic conditions and the utmost chance of viewing the famous site in its best light. 

The Wadi Farasa trail in Petra is one of the best hikes in Jordan during the summer .

Try to get to the top of the trail, near the High Place of Sacrifice, in time to watch the sunrise over the Street of Facades – it is a truly magical experience. 

Wadi Rum, sometimes referred to as the Valley of the Moon, is an otherworldly setting in the heart of the Jordanian desert. It leaves you feeling as though you’ve stepped away from Earth and entered an entirely new planet. 

August is the best month to visit Wadi Rum because of the chance of seeing the spectacular meteor showers in the night sky towards the middle of August .

The most famous of all, the Perseids Shower, typically culminates in mid-August and is a true spectacle to behold. 

The easiest and most stress-free way to visit both Petra and Wadi Rum is to hire a car and follow a Jordan Road Trip Itinerary , enabling you to have plenty of time to explore both of Jordan’s most famous sights. 

Wadi Rum is worth the visit to see this desert landscape and the meteor showers. Photo credit: Ticket 4 Two Please

Summer Destinations in Southeast Asia

2. cat tien national park, vietnam.

By Jackie and Justin, Life Of Doing

Recommended Month to Visit: Any time from June to August

If you’re looking to escape the concrete jungles of Ho Chi Minh City , then a trip to Cat Tien National Park is your answer.

Located 150 kilometers (93 miles) from HCMC, Cat Tien National Park is a fun nature spot to spend a few days or for a quick weekend .  

While the summer is considered the rainy season in South Vietnam , it’s still a good time to visit this national park.

The rain doesn’t last all day, just for 30 minutes, and then the skies will clear up. Just a heads up that there are tons of mosquitoes here, so bring your bug repellent.

This national park has dense forest areas, so you’ll cool off from the heat. Wander through the forest to see tall Tung trees or do a combination of a walk/bike ride to reach Crocodile Lake. There is also a waterfall near the Botanic Garden area. 

Those who love wildlife will enjoy riding an open-top Jeep at the Night Safari. You get the chance to see wild pigs, deer, birds, and more. There is also a chance to trek and see gibbons at sunrise. You’ll hear them when you’ve entered the park. 

Camping is allowed in this national park . Or, there are affordable guesthouses located close to the entrance of the national park. You can stay in your own private bungalow.

Cat Tien National Park is a fun nature spot to explore. Photo credit: Life Of Doing

3. Bao Loc, Vietnam

Recommended Month to Visit: Any time from June to August 

Bao Loc, located in the Central Highlands area, is a unique place to visit in Vietnam .

The main city is small, yet the outskirts are known for growing tea such as oolong and green tea. When driving through the countryside area, you’ll see endless amounts of green tea plantations along the mountainside. 

Even though June to August is considered the rainy season, it’s normal to have heavy showers for 20 minutes and then sunny skies afterward. A little rain won’t hurt your trip. The evenings are cooler since you’re in higher elevations. 

The main tourist attraction is visiting the Dambri Tourist Area . It has two of Vietnam’s best waterfalls to see – Dambri and Dasara Waterfalls.

Dambri is the taller waterfall with 70 meters (230 feet) of powerful cascades, while Dasara has gentler falls. Unfortunately, swimming isn’t allowed at the base of the falls.

Afterward, you can wander through the area to ride a Ferris Wheel, swan paddleboat, and even go swimming at the pool. 

Another popular spot to visit is Linh Quy Phap An Pagoda to see the sunrise . There is a pretty photo spot from the pagoda where you can get a panoramic photo of the Japanese torii gate and the layer of clouds in the background. 

Read more about other things to do in Bao Loc here . 

After visiting Bao Loc, feel free to extend your trip and spend time in Dalat to see more waterfalls and enjoy the clean, crisp air.  

Dambri Waterfall is massive waterfall to check out in Bao Loc. Photo credit: Life Of Doing

4. Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Brunei is a tiny country located on Borneo Island and bordering Malaysia in Southeast Asia. While it’s not a touristy destination, it’s a unique stopover destination to explore. 

Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital and has plenty of attractions to visit. There is a mix of city life with museums and restaurants, tons of rainforests, and beautiful mosques. 

There are a few museums to learn about the history of the country and the Sultan. Check out the Royal Regalia Museum and Brunei History Center.

One of the coolest things to do is to hire a boat and ride along the mangrove forest and Kampong Ayer, the floating village. The mangrove forest may have a few proboscis monkeys hiding. The floating village is also fun to walk around and see how people live above the waters. You may be even invited to someone’s house for a meal. 

Visit the two famous and picturesque mosques, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque . They are beautiful with the architecture and colors while also showing opulence with gold plating everywhere.

Since Brunei is an Islamic country, please have proper clothing coverage. The mosque will provide robes to cover the clothes. 

If you visit during the summer, there are a few holidays to know as places will be closed. July celebrates H.M. Sultan’s birthday and Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice), and August has Al-Hijra (Hijri New Year.) 

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is such a beauty! Photo credit: Life Of Doing

5. Bali, Indonesia

It comes as no surprise that Bali is on the list of places to visit in Asia during the summer season.

The gorgeous greenery and rice fields, beautiful temples, and plenty of beaches are attractive attractions for visitors to experience. Schedule at least 4 days or up to 2 weeks for your Bali trip . 

Bali has the driest weather during this time so you won’t have to worry about the rain dampening your trip. It’ll be hot and humid, so you can enjoy all of the bucket list worthy outdoor adventures . 

Consider trekking Mount Batur to see the sunrise , walking through a hidden canyon , learning how to surf, strolling through Tegalalang Rice Terraces , and visiting the monkeys at Sacred Monkey Forest.

Of course, visiting a waterfall or two is also on the list.  

Otherwise, relaxing on the beaches, getting massages, staying by the pool at your resort, and getting your Vitamin D are also good options for a low-key vacation. 

If the crowds are too much to handle, consider taking a boat ride to visit the three smaller islands of Nusa Islands ( Nusa Penida , Lembongan, and Ceningan).

There are some surreal landscapes and viewpoints of the coastline. Kelingking Beach on Penida Island is a must-visit for the coastline views and the steep hike to the beach. 

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is a popular temple to visit in North Bali. Photo credit: Life Of Doing

6. Komodo National Park, Indonesia

Komodo National Park, in the Flores area of Indonesia, is a beautiful place to visit. Recognized as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites , Komodo National Park is home to the carnivorous Komodo dragons. They live on Komodo and Rinca Island. 

A typical one-day tour to Komodo National Park starts in Labuan Bajo and includes a visit to Padar Island, Rinca or Komodo Island, and a snorkeling site or a beach with pink sand . You’ll travel to these destinations by slow boat or speedboat. 

Padar Island is a lovely island where you hike to the peak and see the blue lakes surrounding the island. 

Depending on the water currents, the tour will take you to either Komodo or Rinca Island. Rinca is closer to Labuan Bajo and has plenty of Komodo dragons to see.

The Komodo dragons are huge and can be 3 meters/10 feet long! A guide is around to maneuver the Komodo dragons in another direction if they get too close to the guests. 

The last stop is a visit to a pink beach or snorkeling depending on the schedule. 

If you have more time, consider spending 2-3 days at this national park . You get the chance to do more snorkeling and scuba diving, visit both Komodo and Rinca Island, and stay overnight on a boat.

Since the weather is humid, you’ll want to spend as much time in the waters as possible.

The Komodo dragon is huge! Photo credit: Life Of Doing

7. Sumatra, Indonesia

By David and Intan, from The World Travel Guy

Recommended Months To Visit: Any time from June to August

Sumatra is one of the biggest islands in the world, but much of it is still unexplored by international tourists . 

Although it has a tropical rainforest climate and rainfall all year round, the summer season is a great time to visit because it’s slightly drier. There is still plenty of rain at this time, but it usually comes in the evenings and at night.

North Sumatra is the most popular province on the island for travelers, and it’s loaded with great things to see and do.

From the international airport in Medan, you can go do some jungle trekking at Bukit Lawang to see Sumatran Orangutans and other unique wildlife , visit an elephant sanctuary at Tangkahan, or take a driving tour around Lake Toba, which is the biggest volcanic lake in the world .

Toba is also home to the Sipiso Piso Waterfall, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Indonesia.

If you want something further off the beaten path, the coast of Sumatra is lined with smaller islands like Bangka, Belitung, Nias, Mentawai, and the Banyak Islands .

You can get on a boat to do island hopping tours and see perfect white sand beaches away from the tourist crowds.

Sumatra is a beautiful destination to travel to during the summertime. Photo credit: The World Travel Guy

Related Post: Adventurous Things to Do in Indonesia

8. khao sok national park, thailand.

By Jessie, Pocket Wanderings

Recommended Month to Visit: June 

The beautiful Khao Sok National Park is a large nature reserve in Surat Thani, Southern Thailand. Home to the man-made Cheow Lan Lake , dense rainforest, and rare wildlife species, it’s an unforgettable place to visit. 

With limited phone signals and hardly any electricity, it’s the perfect destination for a digital detox and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Although the summer months bring the rainy season in Thailand, it’s an ideal time to visit Khao Sok National Park because visitors can enjoy river tubing and other activities .

Some of the water-based activities are weather-dependent and require the conditions of the rainy season to go ahead.

June marks the start of the rainy season , so it provides the right conditions for river tubing but still offers some fair weather and warm temperatures.

Other activities on the water include bamboo rafting, kayaking, and swimming. For those who prefer to stay on land, the jungle offers plenty of hiking opportunities – although it can get slippery in the wetter months. 

As Khao Sok National Park is quite remote, it’s best to stay overnight .

Accommodation generally consists of floating raft houses, which sit on the water. A stay in one of these floating bungalows is a truly memorable experience. They range from budget to luxury, depending on your personal preferences.

Khao Sok National Park is an ideal spot for water activities when visiting in June. Photo credit: Pocket Wanderings

9. Pai, Thailand

By Martina, The Global Curious

Recommended Months to Visit: June, July, and August are the wettest months yet perfect for lush nature and no crowds.

Precisely 129 kilometers (80 miles) northwest of Chiang Mai lies a beautiful village where all hippy dreams come true. Home of artists, lovely locals, cool hangouts, and a night market , Pai tops it all up with a lush jungle and a calm, long winding river.

Even though some suggest Pai as a day trip , it’s worth spending between 3 to 4 days exploring and enjoying its slow pace – and some of its many nature spots .

On one hand, you can explore this cute village, have a drink at any of its many pubs with live music, stroll up and down the walking street, and grab food at the night market. 

However, the best lies outside town, where you can venture either by booking an excursion or renting a scooter. Traffic can indeed be tricky, and streets are not too bright. Yet, a scooter won’t force you to go fast, and most stops are close to each other – say from a 10 to 20-minute drive, depending on how you organize your day.

Some great spots to check out in just 2 or 3 days are the Pai Bamboo Bridge Trail, Pam Bok Waterfall, Pai Canyon, and the White Buddha – great for sunset! 

If you want to learn about reforestation in the area, plant trees, and see an elephant roaming around freely, get in touch with the folks at Conserve Natural Forests .

Pai is a pretty place to visit during the summer season. Photo credit: The Global Curious

10. Koh Samui, Thailand

By Karen, Are We There Yet Kids

Recommended Months to Visit : July and August

Thailand is always a bit hit or miss over the summer months in terms of weather. Much of the country is experiencing the rainy season. This means days of rain, making exploring the outdoors difficult. 

However, these months are classed as the hot season in Koh Samui. Any tropical storms you experience in July and August on the island will be short-lived and thrilling to watch.

Visiting during summer also means fewer crowds and better prices than the peak months of January and February.

Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island and one of the most beautiful. It’s home to wide stretches of white sandy beaches and a bright turquoise sea .

For the most exquisite beaches, steer clear of busy Chaweng and head to the often deserted Taling Ngam on the West Coast or Lipa Noi for the best sunsets on the island. 

A short hike to Namuang Waterfall 1 is a must-do to take in the scenery and cool off in the clear natural pool at its base.

Or spend a day visiting the many temples located on the island. The Big Buddha near the airport is one of Koh Samui’s most popular attractions.

Don’t miss the amazing night markets in Bophut and Lamai to purchase great value souvenirs and sample the incredible street food. If you’re visiting during a full moon, then it’s an easy boat trip across to Koh Phangan to attend the fabulous full moon party.

July and August are popular months to visit Koh Samui with kids as it is the school summer holidays. It’s the perfect place for a family holiday.

How can you resist the beaches at Koh Samui? Photo credit: Are We There Yet Kids

11. Bako National Park, Borneo, Malaysia

Recommended by Martina, PlacesofJuma

Recommended Months to Visit : Any time from June to August

One of the best destinations to visit in Asia in summer is Bako National Park in Borneo, Malaysia.

At this time of year, you can expect little rain, but a lot of good weather . Also, the journey by boat is easy to organize at this time, which can be difficult in the monsoon season.

While exploring the Bako National Park in summer, you’ll enjoy amazing natural beauty with lots of interesting wildlife and also breathtaking beautiful beaches.

In any case, you’ll have the chance to see the most famous animal with big-nosed monkeys – the Proboscis Monkeys. They’re hanging around in the trees and are easy to find.

Another highlight is the Bako National Park’s bays. You’ll find many different sand beaches, but also impressive sandstone cliffs and limestones. For example, the Sea Stack is an interesting rock formation that looks like a cobra head.

Getting to Bako National Park can easily be arranged from Kuching. From there, take the bus number 1. Once arriving at the Bako Jetty, purchase a boat ticket to the Park entrance. The beach can be reached by a 1.5-hour hike from the National Park headquarter or by boat tour.

One to two nights is the perfect amount of time to spend inside the park .

Bako National Park offers various accommodation options such as a hostel with multiple beds, private bungalows, and a campsite. It’s recommended to book your favorite place to stay in advance.

Bako National Park is a unique place to visit in Asia during the summer season. Photo credit: Places of Juma

12. Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

By Campbell and Alya, Stingy Nomads

The Perhentian Islands are two beautiful little islands, Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, located on the coast of North-East Malaysia, very close to Thailand.

These spectacular tropical islands with perfect white beaches and crystal clear water offer excellent scuba diving, snorkeling from the beach, and some nice, short hiking trails. 

June is a great month to visit the Perhentian Islands due to the good weather and ideal diving conditions. It’s not the peak of the tourist season yet, mainly being very busy over weekends.

July and August are excellent months to visit for diving and weather conditions, but it gets very busy in these months, so book accommodation ahead of time. 

Perhentian Kecil is a more lively island with more resorts and many backpackers.

While you’re here, check out Long Beach . It’s a fantastic beach for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll see sharks and big fish. Watching the sunset and relaxing from one of the beach bars is also recommended here.  

Perhentian has excellent scuba diving . Some of the best dive sites are Tokong Laut, a beautiful dive site rich in marine life, and the largely intact Sugar Wreck, a sunken freighter lying in 20 meters (65 feet) of water.

Rent snorkeling gear and a kayak, and paddle between Long Beach and Coral Bay to see beautiful corals and marine life. 

There are some short hiking trails through the dense jungle connecting resorts and villages on the island.

Take advantage of the snorkeling and diving opportunities at Perhentian Islands, Malaysia. Photo credit: Stingy Nomads

13. Singapore

By Mar, Solo Female Travelers Club

Recommended Month to Visit : August

There are many festivals in Singapore throughout the year.

While some fireworks are thrown for Chinese New Year and New Year’s Eve, nothing beats the celebration that takes place during National Day on August 9th every summer , making it a fun time to be around. 

The celebration commemorates the day Singapore became independent from Malaysia in 1965 and gets bigger every day.

Preparations and rehearsals, including fighter jets flying over the sky, start as early as June and practice happens with a live audience.

On the day, a few thousand lucky Singaporeans will be elected at a lottery to attend the live show, while the rest will watch on TV or from a distance. 

Besides the National Day Military Parade, which is a big deal, and the performance by the fighter jets, the star of the show is a shinny firework display that used to take place over the Marina, with the famous Marina Bay Sands Hotel behind.

The best way to enjoy the celebrations is by booking a spot at one of the many rooftop bars from where the fireworks can be seen. Depending on where they take place this could be the fancy 1-Altitude , the fashionable Mr. Stork , or even the top of the Marina Bay Sands.  

Other events happen across the city throughout the day, with outdoor concerts, light projections on the main museums, and more.

Because everyone is out and about and the atmosphere is celebratory, it’s a great time to meet people even if you are solo . 

Sit at one of the many hawker centers and strike up a conversation with the locals to learn more about the city-state.

Visiting the merlion statue is one of the attractions to visit in Singapore. Photo credit: Solo Female Travelers

14. Trincomalee, Sri Lanka

By Maria & Katerina, It’s All Trip To Me

With constant temperatures all year long and two separate monsoon seasons, Sri Lanka is one of the best year-round destinations to visit in Asia .

However, the best time to plan a trip to the east coast of the island and the seaside town of Trincomalee , in particular, is the summer.

One of the main reasons to add Trincomalee to your itinerary in the first place is that, unlike the beach towns located on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Trincomalee isn’t affected by mass tourism .

Quaint Trinco is easy-going and authentic, while its most spectacular beach, Nilaveli, doesn’t attract hordes of tourists . Not even during the peak summer season.

While in Trincomalee, you can embark on an exciting whale-watching boat trip . For the more adventurous, scuba diving and snorkeling are also very popular.

However, the fun doesn’t stop there. From Trincomalee, you can join a boat tour to either the exotic Pigeon Island or the gorgeous Kunchikumban Aru Lagoon.

Back on land, there is no shortage of hidden gems to explore in and near Trincomalee. Originally built in 1624, Fort Fredrick is a historic place with breathtaking ocean views.

Another must-see attraction near Trincomalee is the site of the seven Kanniya Hot Springs, whose water is said to have healing properties.

Whatever you choose to do during your summer trip to Trincomalee, there’s one thing you most definitely don’t want to miss, and that is watching the sunrise on Nilaveli Beach .

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka is a good place to visit in Asia in August. Photo credit: It’s All Trip To Me

15. Siem Reap, Cambodia

By Emma, Wanderlust and Wet Wipes

Arguably, there is no bad time to visit Cambodia. Whether you’re visiting Siem Reap with kids in January, backpacking in October, or are there for a temple tour in August, there is no avoiding this spectacular place. 

With around 50 Buddhist and Hindu temples, the UNESCO recognized Angkor Wat Archaeological Park is the main reason people visit .

Spend a full week exploring the most popular sites such as Angkor Wat, Bayon, Preah Khan, Phnom Bakheng, and Banteay Srei.

There is so much more to do in and around Siem Reap.

The nearby lake of Tonle Sap is stunning . With careful planning, you can visit a few of the 171 floating villages with a responsible boat operator, or tour around in canoes. When visiting in the rainy season, the lake has a flat flood plain and is considerably bigger and more impressive when it’s full.

For outdoor adventurers, spend a day hiking in Phnom Kulen National Park . Check out the waterfalls and temples, as it’s another place recognized by UNESCO. Other fantastic outdoor activities include Angkor Zip Lining and Angkor Wat Putt. 

For a quieter afternoon, head to the silk farm or to Apopo Landmine Museum which showcases the hero rats that have been trained to detect some of the 6 million landmines still left unexploded all over Cambodia. 

In the evenings, grab dinner at somewhere like Haven , New Leaf Eatery , or Spoons where underprivileged locals are trained up and employed.

Phare Circus is another great activity – its profits support the free education, professional arts training, and social support programs of a nearby art school.

Siem Reap has epic temples to explore. Photo credit: Wanderlust and Wet Wipes

Related Post: How to Spend 3 Days in Siem Reap

South asia places in summertime, 16. goa, india.

By Anukrati, Bulbul On the Wing 

The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Goa would be the beaches and the parties. It’s what most people perceive, but there is a less explored hidden side to this Konkan state . 

If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, you should explore the beautiful state during the monsoon season between June and August. 

There are many advantages of visiting Goa during the monsoon season . You’re likely to get great deals on flights due to less demand. In addition, the hotel tariffs tend to decrease for the low season.

Most importantly, you would have the tourist attractions to yourself due to fewer crowds.

There are top two things that you can do in Goa during this season. First, check out Parra Road , one of the prettiest roads here. It’s lined with lush palm trees and overlooks fields on both sides. Also, it’s a popular site shown in many movies, such as Alia Bhatt’s character cycling in Dear Zindagi.

Secondly, visit Divar Island to check out Bonderam, the Festival of Flags . It occurs annually on the fourth Saturday of August. It’s worth witnessing the festivities and parade. 

Irrespective of the time of the year, Goa always guarantees a memorable experience.

Goa is a pretty destination to visit in India in the summer. Photo credit: Bulbul On the Wing

17. Spiti Valley, India

By Soujanya, The Spicy Journey

Recommended Month to Visit: June

Spiti Valley is a cold desert in India, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It’s famous for its vast, dry, dramatic, and stunning landscape .

Due to the difficulty in reaching there and lack of cellular connectivity, Spiti is not for the faint-hearted. 

To reach Spiti Valley, one has to arrive in Delhi first. From here, there are two routes to be followed to reach Kaza, the ancient capital of Spiti, and the one where most travelers set up their base to explore the valley. 

The first one is Delhi-Manali-Kaza. This is a shorter but treacherous route and is closed in the winter months due to the heavy snow.

Therefore, it’s recommended to visit in June when the roads are safe and the weather is pleasant. Whereas the other route, Delhi-Shimla-Kaza is longer but is open throughout the year.

In Spiti, it’s common for most travelers to follow an 8-day Spiti Valley itinerary . It involves staying at one of the many hotels, homestays, or hostels in Kaza and then exploring the rest of this area by bus or by renting a car or bike. 

You can’t miss out on seeing Hikkim where the world’s highest post office is located or Chicham bridge, Asia’s highest bridge.

Other places to explore in Spiti Valley include the majestic Key (or Kee) Monastery, Langza, Dhankar, Tabo, Pin Valley, and Kibber, famous for sightings of the snow leopard in winter.

Visiting Spiti Valley in June is an ideal time to explore this unique area. Photo credit: The Spicy Journey

18. Andaman Islands, India

By Trijit, Budget Travel Buff

Surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches and blue turquoise water, Andaman Island is one of the best summer destinations in Asia. It’s a union territory of India, located in the southeastern part of the Bay of Bengal. 

Unlike other popular places, this is a less crowded beach in India .

Whether you’re a solo traveler, traveling with your family, or looking for a romantic vacation , Andaman Islands is the best option for you. 

Port Blair is the capital city of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Start your trip by visiting the infamous Cellular Jail , a popular attraction and a historical sight in Andaman. 

If you are not a history person, book a ticket for Havelock Island .

Private catamaran (recommended to save time) or government ferry (budget-friendly) are available to reach Havelock Island.

It’s a must-visit place that offers stunning views of white-sand beaches, crystal clear water, lush green forest, and plenty of water activities. 

Explore the award-winning Radhanagar Beach which ranked Asia’s best beach by Time magazine in 2004 .

Kalapathar Beach is another highlight. This spectacular beach is popular for its stunning sunrise. Swimming is not possible because of the sharp rocks, but it’s an amazing place to take pictures for your Instagram feed.

Adventure enthusiasts can explore the underwater universe by snorkeling, scuba diving, and sea walking.

Enjoy the close view of the colorful corals and countless sea fish that swim around you. Jetskiing, kayaking, parasailing, and boating are also available on Havelock Island.

Tip : Even if you visit Andaman Island in summer, you must keep a raincoat handy.

Who wants to visit Radhanagar Beach? Photo credit: Budget Travel Buff

Summer Places to Visit in East Asia

19. kanazawa, japan .

By Alyse, The Invisible Tourist

While a majority of tourists opt to avoid visiting Japan in summer, it could be argued June is one of the best times to explore Kanazawa.

Located in Ishikawa prefecture, its preserved Edo-era wooden townhouses, samurai history, and practicing geisha earned it the name “Little Kyoto.”

Home to one of the country’s top 3 gardens , Kenroku-en is a must to add to a Kanazawa itinerary .

Meandering pathways beneath leafy surroundings offer abundant shade, a welcome respite from the early summer sun.

Enjoy the beautifully landscaped garden in its full glory, with its flowers, moss, and cool running streams.

Summer is the perfect time to try the local specialty, gold leaf ice cream ! Kanazawa is responsible for almost 99% of Japan’s gold leaf production, where it was once in high demand in imperial cities such as Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo) centuries ago.

Some of the most fun things to do in Kanazawa are cultural experiences .

Learn about the tea ceremony process from a geisha, take a pottery class, walk in the footsteps of the ruling Maeda Clan at Kanazawa Castle, see how samurai once lived at Nomura Clan Residence, and even explore a “ninja” temple with hidden trap doors and secret passageways. 

As Kanazawa’s attractions are quite spread out, it’s wise to use the local loop bus to get around . The popular Suica (IC) card and JR Passes do not work on these buses, so be sure to have some spare yen to pay the driver when boarding.

Kenroku-en Garden is a beautiful attraction to visit in Kanazawa, Japan. Photo credit: The Invisible Tourist

20. Xi’an, China

By Bec, Wyld Family Travel

Recommended Month to Visit: August (June, July, and August are the hottest months in Xi’an, but towards the end of August the hot days ease off a little bit.)

For many, a trip to Xi’an, China is all about the Terracotta Warriors but there are many more things to do in Xian .

While the epic Terracotta Warriors should not be missed you can find yourself immersing yourself in a brilliant mix of sites, cultures, and tastes.

For day activities in Xi’an , visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Danfeng Gate, and Daming Palace. A walk up the Grand Tang Mall will provide you with sculptures in the center and small stalls that sell ice cold drinks throughout the day.

Tang Paradise is the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around the gardens that the Tang dynasty called their own for many years.

If you are traveling to Xi’an with kids , a visit to Xingqinggong Park has a small variety of amusement park rides that’ll keep them happy. Join some of the locals who are dancing or doing Tai Chi. 

Don’t forget to hire some bikes and ride the great Xi’an City Walls . It’s a bit bumpy and the bikes can be a bit rough, but it is a lot of fun. Alternatively, you can easily walk them too.

Foodies will love Xi’an. The best place to sample all of the best food in Xi’an is the Muslim Quarter.

Spend some time at the Bello Tower and Drum Tower (sunset there is also magnificent) before making your way into the crowded food streets of the Muslim Quarter. Here you will find great food and drinks that will fill you right up!

Xian, China is a fun place to explore during the summer season. Photo credit: Wyld Family Travel

21. Kunming, China

By Pafoua, Her Wanderful World

Recommended Months to Visit : Anytime from June to August

Kunming is the largest city in China’s Yunnan province. It’s known as the “Spring City” for its year-round moderate climate , which makes Kunming one of the best summer destinations to visit in Asia as you’ll escape the heat.

Due to the spring-like climate of Kunming, you’ll see flowers blossoming all year-round and an abundance of green trees and plants .

With such nice weather, the nearby Dianchi Lake is a wonderful place to spend the day walking, boating, or just relaxing in the sun.

Kunming is also home to many minorities and ethnic groups where you can visit Yunnan Ethnic Minorities Village located near Dianchi Lake. Each minority village will be designed according to its own cultural style.

Another amazing site to see in Kunming is Stone Forest Park which features limestone karst formations naturally carved by erosion . Hike through the forest to see beautiful karst towers and caves.

You should book a driver ahead of time to save you time in reaching the Stone Forest, and the park can be easily self-guided.

Kunming is a huge transportation hub so you can fly directly into Kunming Changshui International Airport, take the fast train, or bus into the city. 

Although the temperatures are nice and comfortable, it can get rainy in the Spring City so pack a rain jacket and water-resistant shoes for all the walking you may be doing. 

Kunming is an amazing hidden gem in China and is a must-see on your Asia bucket list! 

Stone Forest Park is a fantastic attraction to visit during your trip to Kunming, China. Photo credit: Her Wanderful World

22. Kashgar, China

By De Wet and Jin, Museum of Wander

Kashgar in far western China’s Xinjiang province is an incredible Silk Road city and one of China’s most exotic places to visit .

The hot, dry summers are the best time to experience this stunning ancient city with more than 2000 years of history. 

Kashgar doesn’t feel much like China but rather like Central Asia. The people look different, and the language sounds and looks a lot more Arabic than Chinese.

Put aside at least one full day to explore the Old Town of Kashgar , get lost in the labyrinth of alleys, relax tea at one of many Uyghur teahouses, see the intricate mosques and tombs, and try the tasty street food.

The Kashgar Bazaar and Livestock market are also not to be missed .

Kashgar has always been a trading center, and at these markets, you can still get a sense of what the Silk Road must have been like ages ago .

Uyghur, Kazakh, Tajik, Pakistani, Afghan, and Han Chinese traders from the surrounding region descend on Kashgar to trade in anything and everything: from camels and yaks to dried fruit, watermelons, and jokes.

Kashgar is also the starting point of the Karakoram Highway, which runs between China and Pakistan .

If you’re there in summer, you MUST go on this incredibly epic journey (it’s closed in winter due to snow). Along the way, you’ll see some of the best mountain scenery on earth.

Traveling along the Karakoram Highway carries the risk of altitude sickness, so drink plenty of water and pack some paracetamol just in case. 

Kashgar is a unique place to visit in Asia during the summer season. Photo credit: Museum of Wander

23. Hong Kong (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China)

Hong Kong is one of the vibrant places to visit in Asia. With the blend of Eastern and Western cultures, tall skyscrapers, non-stop shopping, and delicious foods and dim sum, you’ll need a few days to explore this area. 

Expect summertime weather that is hot and humid , around 88℉/31℃. If you plan to spend most of the time outdoors, you’ll need to stay hydrated on your visit. 

Even though Hong Kong has tall buildings, there are some photoworthy spots to check out . Check out Chi Lin Nunnery and temple grounds, Choi Hung Estate for the colorful apartment buildings, Man Mo Temple, and Victoria Peak. 

If you need some time away from the main area, take a day trip to Lantau Island . Here, you can spend the day at Disneyland .

Hikers will enjoy hiking along Lantau Peak and seeing the greenery along the mountain. Another highlight is to see the giant Tian Tan Buddha at Ngong Ping. 

Other day trips can include visiting Macau or Tai O, a fishing village. 

At night, head back to Kowloon to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Avenue of Stars, or anywhere along the harbor to see the free light show, Symphony of Light . The 15-minute show has skyscrapers lit up across the harbor to various instrumental music. 

Chi Lin Nunnery is a beautiful place to escape the crowds in Hong Kong. Photo credit: Life Of Doing

24. Xiaoliuqiu Island, Taiwan

By Mariza, Hoponworld

Recommended Month to Visit: August (Keep an eye on the weather forecast as typhoons could impact your trip.)

When summer hits, most people flock to the shores of southern Taiwan to bask in the sun.

Although there are loads of amazing beaches in this part of the island, there is one place that has remained one of Taiwan’s best-kept secrets, Xiaoliuqiu Island.

Xiaoliuqiu is a small coral island less than 30 minutes boat ride from Kaohsiung. The island only measures about 6.8km², but despite its size, it’s full of incredible things to do and the most stunning scenery imaginable. 

Boasting turquoise-colored waters, colorful coral reefs full of green sea turtles, and all kinds of fish, Xiaoliuqiu offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in Taiwan . Recently, it has even become the go-to spot for free diving . 

There are oodles of beautiful beaches where you can bake in the sun and spot sea turtles right from the shore. 

If you get tired of lounging on the beach, explore the island’s fascinating hiking trails and geological sites like Vase Rock and the Houshi Fringing Reef. 

Other huge musts are the Beauty Cave and the Black Dwarf Cave. You could spend hours strolling these labyrinth-like cave systems as the scenery is truly spectacular.

The Black Dwarf Cave, in particular, is a cool place to learn more about Xiaoliuqiu’s history during the Dutch colonial rule.

Another highlight is the food! Fresh seafood is a staple here , and you’ll find dozens of restaurants ready to serve you the catch of the day.

Regardless of the weather, Xiaoliuqiu is a real hidden gem and a great add-on to any Asia summer bucket list! 

Xiaoliuqiu Island has gorgeous views and is a recommended place to visit in Asia in August. Photo credit: Hoponworld

25. Jeju Island, South Korea

By Linda, Linda Goes East

Travelers visiting South Korea in the summer shouldn’t miss the opportunity to check out Jeju Island.

The largest island in the peninsula is a popular summer destination among Koreans and international visitors , especially to escape the summer heatwave on the mainland.

The summer season on Jeju Island starts at the end of June and all the beaches are open for swimming .

July and August are the hottest months of the year – around 29ºC (84°F). These weather conditions are perfect for surfing (the ideal waves are between June to October), diving, and swimming.

The best beaches are Hyeopjae, Hamdeok, and Jungmun Saekdal Beach.

Jeju Island formed millions of years ago due to volcanic activity. You can check out various natural attractions related to volcanoes on the island. 

The most popular attraction is Hallasan , an ancient ​​shield volcano and the highest mountain in South Korea. The crater is home to a large lake that formed after the last eruption around 1000 A.D.

Hiking enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the chance to hike this volcanic mountain ! For non-hikers, visit the 20-meter (65 feet) tall Oedolgae Rock formations that are the result of volcanic activity.

The volcanic soil has also made it the ideal tea-producing area. Green tea grown on Jeju is world-famous and you can visit tea plantations to learn more about the history of tea in Korea . Korean tea brand Osulloc even has a plantation museum here that is worth a visit.

Check out this 1-week Jeju Island road trip guide to learn more about Jeju’s picturesque beaches, UNESCO sites, and unique local culture. 

Head to Jeju Island to see these awesome views. Photo credit: Linda Goes East

Final Thoughts

After reading this post, where do you want to go in Asia in the summer? Let us know in the comments below. 

With 25 destinations to check out, you can have an adventure-packed or relaxing schedule filled with hiking, water activities, and/or beach time. Thanks again to our travel blogging friends for their recommendations. 

Have fun on your summer break from June to August. 

Check out our other blog posts on where to go in Asia:

• Places to Visit in Asia in Spring Season
• Fall Places to Travel to in Asia
• Cold and Warm Destinations in Asia in Winter Season
• Where to Spend New Year’s Eve in Asia

Like this post? Save it to your Asia Travel Pinterest board.

Featured photo and pin #1 photo credit: Gatot Adri via Scopio Photos

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

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August In Asia: 12 Stunning Places To Add To Your Wishlist

Categories Destinations , Asia , India , Indonesia , Japan , Kazakhstan , Malaysia , Sri Lanka , Taiwan , Vietnam

Wow! I can’t believe how long it has taken me to put these guides to Asia together. We have finally reached our detailed list of spots that you can spend August in Asia. As usual, we have reached out to a number of different travel bloggers who love to explore the length and breadth of the continent.

We have found that reading through their ideas always gives us a new perspective about Asia. It helps us think out of the proverbial box and we hope that it will help you in the same way that it helps us.

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.

August In Asia – Table Of Contents

As usual, I fully expect that our guide to places where you can spend August in Asia will be detailed and long. It can get a bit tedious to scroll through! I know largely because it is difficult to scroll through everything when I edit the article. Phew!

So, in order to make it easier, I’ve compiled a list of links that direct you to the country you wish to explore. You could choose to use them or just follow the traditional method and scroll through the article. Whichever way you choose, I hope you have a fun read.

India is a large country and its diverse land mass makes it the perfect place to put on your bucket list for almost every season. That is why I was not surprised when I found out that a couple of travel bloggers wanted to contribute destinations in India to our list of places to spend in August in Asia.

Looking to spend August in Asia in the hills of India? Consider visiting Coorg.

LOCATION:  Coorg

GETTING THERE:  The nearest airport is in Mangalore (135 km) whereas the nearest railway station from Coorg is in Mysore. Once you get down in Mangalore airport or Mysore railway station, you can hire a cab to reach Coorg via road.

Coorg is well connected with all major cities in Karnataka like Mysore (120 km), Mangalore (135 km), Bangalore (260 km), and Hassan (115 km).

WHERE TO STAY:  I would suggest staying in homestays in Madikeri which is only 24 km away from Coorg. But you can also stay in one of the Coorg jungle camps, enjoying the nature up-close.

Coorg, often heralded as the ‘ Scotland of India ’, is a picturesque region known for its high-quality coffee and undulating green hills. Coorg has some of the most astonishing landscapes spanning verdant mountains, stout rivers, dense forests, and rocky waterfalls.

The top things to do include visiting Raja’s seat, Mandalpati trek, Omkareshwara temple, Dubare Elephant camp, Namdroling Monastery, and Abbey Falls. Coorg makes for a perfect destination for people of all age groups.

During the monsoon season, especially in July and August, Coorg’s weather becomes quite pleasant and cool due to the heavy rain, transforming the entire town into an opulent green paradise. August is the best time to witness the splendour of the seasonal waterfalls and is a perfect time to indulge in sports like river rafting.

By Anwesha from Going Places With Anwesha

2. Meghalaya

Consider spending your August in Asia in India’s gorgeous state called Meghalaya.

LOCATION: Meghalaya

GETTING THERE: Fly into Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya.

WHERE TO STAY: There are a number of hotels, homestays and resorts in Shillong, the main city of Meghalaya. Hotel Pinewood and Hotel Orchid are the best luxury properties in Shillong and for budget stays, Café Shillong Bed and Breakfast is one of the best.

Meghalaya in India becomes a heavenly destination during the monsoon season. Located in the north eastern part of India, Meghalaya literally means “the abode of clouds” and is also the home to the wettest place on the earth.

Mawsynram is said to receive the maximum rainfall on planet earth and Cherrapunjee is the second wettest place on earth. How would it feel to be at the wettest place on the earth during the monsoon?

Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful destinations in India having cascading waterfalls, clear pools, living root bridges and people who have a close connection with nature. In August, Meghalaya has both rain and sun.

The waterfalls are in their best with water gushing down and there is greenery everywhere. Everything looks fresh and scenic everywhere around Meghalaya.

6-7 days are sufficient to cover the major attractions of Meghalaya. Shillong, Cherrapunjee, Mawlynnong and Dawki are the must-visit places in Meghalaya. Do not miss the beautiful waterfalls of Cherrapunjee. Mawlynnong is also said to be the cleanest village in Asia is a beautiful village.

If possible, go for the  Nongriat Trek . It will take you to the Double Decker Root Bridge, a natural wonder found exclusively in Meghalaya. But for the trek, you have to take almost 3500 stairs downhill and uphill at one leg of the trek!

For foodies, Meghalaya is known for its pork preparations. Do try the Khasi local food “Jadoh”, coloured rice made from pork fat. It tastes heavenly.

By Amrita from Tale of 2 Backpackers

Indonesia is one of our favourite countries in south east Asia. From the volcanoes in Java to the beaches in Bali, there is just so much to see and do.

In fact, other than those two islands, the country has a number of others that could definitely fit your bucket list. Let’s take a look at what has been suggested as a great destination to spend August in Asia shall we?

Indonesia’s Bali is always a great choice when it comes to spending August in Asia.

LOCATION:  Bali

GETTING THERE:  Ngurah Rai International Airport is the hub of the region and is located about 15 km from Bali’s capital city, Kuta.

Most international flights arrive and depart from here. Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Lombok or the Gili Islands if you are traveling from other parts of Indonesia.

WHERE TO STAY:  There are lots of great places to stay in Bali. Ubud is the perfect spot for travelers interested in spirituality and cultural sites.

Canggu is a surfer’s paradise with a hipster crowd. Seminyak is a more refined destination which is good for families and couples, while Candidasa is perfect for those coming to Bali to scuba dive.

In August, Bali is experiencing its dry season which makes it the ideal time to visit the island. The days are warm and sunny with temperatures hovering in the mid to high twenties.

The island is sprinkled with great beaches, forests, rice terraces, and local towns that charm visitors from around the world. With so much natural beauty and countless things to do, it’s no wonder that Bali has become one of the modern world’s top tourist destinations.

For conscious foodie travellers, sustainable and vegan food are abundant.

Uluwatu is one of the island’s top destinations. Located on the island’s southernmost point, you’ll find massive cliff lookout points and popular, idyllic surfer beaches. Near Ubud, the magical Rice Terraces of Tegalalang are a lush green wonderland and another popular tourist attraction. It is also home to a great number of yoga studios – Yoga Barn stands out.

For mind blowing views of the sun coming up over eastern Bali, we suggest a hike to Mt.Batur at sunrise. However, if you would prefer to check out marine life. Then,  diving in Bali  is some of the best in the world. Whatever you are interested in, there is something for you to do in Bali in August!

By Oksana and Max from Drink Tea & Travel

One of the countries that has been on my bucket list for ever is Japan. I was thrilled to see it added to our list of countries to spend August in Asia largely because I have been brainstorming over all the spots I could visit in the country.

The food, landscape and the people are all reasons that have drawn me to it. Unfortunately, all that I have been able to do is travel to it virtually. Hopefully, some day soon that will change.

4. Kanazawa

Kanazawa in Japan is a great option when it comes to spending August in Asia.

LOCATION: Kanazawa, Japan

GETTING THERE: There are 3 main ways you can get to Kanazawa. The most popular way of getting there is via the Shinkansen. The Kagayaki Shinkansen is the fastest train service, covering the distance between Tokyo and Kanazawa in 2 hours and 30 minutes.

A return trip will cost around USD $140.00 per person. You will find similar travel times from Osaka, which is also means you can catch it from Kyoto.

Kanazawa is serviced by one of the largest regional airports in Japan. Komatsu airport is south of Kanazawa and about a 40-minute drive away. The airport is connected with frequent direct flights from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, as well as to Narita Airport, Sapporo, Sendai, Shizuoka, Fukuoka and Naha. Additionally, there are regular international flights from Seoul, Shanghai and Taipei.

The third way of getting there from Tokyo would be to hire a car. The drive is just under 6 hours. Kanazawa and its surrounds are best accessed by car so you could just rent a car for the whole trip.

WHERE TO STAY: Like all cities in Japan, they have very distinct districts you can stay in. Each district has its own distinctive characteristics so it truly depends on what sort of experience you may prefer.

Kanazawa Station Area: If you’re arriving by shinkansen, this is where you will arrive. It is extremely convenient with shopping areas, lots of restaurants and where majority of the hotels are located.

Higashi Chaya Area: Higashi Chaya is the epitome of Old Japan. You’ll find old preserved geisha houses and is the traditional entertainment district. The area however is quite busy as it’s the main tourist attraction of the city.

Omicho Market Area: This is a thriving food market area with lots of restaurants around it.

Kanazawa Castle/Kenroku-en/Museum Area: This district is the historical district of Kanazawa where you’ll find the beautiful Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa Prefectural Museum of Art and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art as well as the Kanazawa Castle.

Kanazawa is the capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture on the western coastline of Japan. For many who visit Japan, Kanazawa is often overlooked as a destination and thus making it one of the most underrated spots to visit.

During World War Two, Kanazawa managed to escape destruction by air raids. As a result of that, the city is incredibly well preserved and a wonderful way to explore old Japan. Home to the Nagamachi samurai district as well as the geisha districts, these are some of the most accessible and beautiful parts of the country.

The surrounding countryside of the city offers some spectacular experiences. Southeast of Kanazawa is the village of Shirakawa-go famous for its traditional thatched roof houses. In August, you’d be able to be able to enjoy the whole area in warmth and bask in the sun.

To the north of Kanazawa is the stunning Noto Peninsula and you can drive the entire peninsula in one day. The views are stunning as you drive through the lush green mountains.

You can visit Wajima town, go to Chirihama beach where in August you can actually drive on the beach if weather permits, see Keta Taisha Shrine and go to the Senmaida, a hillside of terraced rice fields along the Sea of Japan.

Kanazawa should be on everyone’s Japan itinerary, especially if you’re concentrating your visit in the middle of the country. Kanazawa represents quintessential Japan and certainly not to be missed!

By Amy from Family Globetrotters

Kazakhstan has popped up on many of our lists lately and if you have been following many of the travel blogs, you will probably have noticed that a lot of people have been travelling there. Who could blame them?

The gorgeous landscapes, high mountain ranges, lush fields and more beckon any nature lover. It definitely made my day to see it added to our list of places to spend August in Asia.

Almaty is a great place to spend August in Asia.

LOCATION: Almaty

GETTING THERE: Several companies fly to Almaty international airport.

WHERE TO STAY: Almaty backpackers’ hostel or European backpackers’ hostel

Almaty used to be the capital of the Soviet Union Republic of Kazakhstan until after independence the new president created its own city. The brand new shiny Nursultan with its futuristic architecture is now the administrative capital, but the heart of Kazakhstan is still in Almaty.

Almaty remains the liveliest and most dynamic city in the country with its mixture of Soviet history and modern buildings. In summer its café terraces are full with the city’s young population and increasingly with travelers from abroad, because Almaty is also a great city for those that love the outdoors.

Almaty is surrounded by spectacular nature. The snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan mountains are visible from the city. August is a perfect time to go to these higher altitudes and escaping the summer heat is as easy as taking a public bus to Shymbulak. In 30 minutes, you are high up in the mountains with lots of hiking opportunities.

Beautiful big Almaty lake is also less than an hour from the city and if you are willing to go a bit further there is lots of nature to explore such as the red rock formations in the Charyn canyon, the alpine mountain lakes of Kolsai and the singing sand dunes in Altyn Emel.

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

One country that Shawn and I have found ourselves returning to again and again over the past couple of years is Malaysia. Granted, we have spent more time on the island of Borneo than on mainland Malaysia.

Still, the flavors, the culture and the people are just a few things that draw us back to the country again and again. It isn’t a wonder that it got added to our list of places to spend August in Asia.

6. Perhentian Islands

Consider spending August in Asia at the Perhentian islands.

LOCATION: Perhentian Islands

GETTING THERE: Fly to Kota Bharu Airport (KBR) and take a taxi to Kuala Besut Jetty. From the jetty take a boat to the Perhentian Islands.

You can also get to Kuala Besut by bus from any city in Malaysia, if you are coming from Kuala Lumpur the bus leaves from Kuala Lumpur TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan).

WHERE TO STAY: The Perhentian Islands have a variety of accommodation ranging from camping to luxury accommodation. Perhentian Kecil attracts more budget travellers that want to dive around the Perhentian Islands .

The smaller Kecil island is more developed with a chilled-out backpacker vibe with many dive centers. If you want to have a budget stay and do a dive course, for a nice chalet very close to a private beach check out Perhentian Chomel Chalet .

Perhentian Besar is less developed with more expensive resorts and restaurants, this is a better island for a romantic breakaway or honeymoon. For a more luxury stay Suhaila Palace offers beachfront accommodation in Perhentian Besar Island.

The Perhentian Islands are a great diving destination located approximately 20 km off the coast of North East Malaysia, close to Thailand. We travelled to the Perhentian Islands in July and had fantastic weather and great diving conditions.

The islands are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs rich in marine life, the surrounding archipelago is accessible by small boat with plenty of different sites to dive. The islands offer more than just diving with nice snorkelling from shore, trails to hike and beautiful sandy beaches.

The two main islands are the big island, Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil, the Small Perhentian Island.

By Campbell and Alya from Stingy Nomads

A lesser visited country that made our list is Mongolia. Honestly, I have never really thought about visiting the country other than to take he trans-Siberian train through it. Mongolia has a lot of great sights to see and the lack of tourists makes it an ideal destination to spend August in Asia.

7. Gobi Dessert

The Gobi desert is one of the intriguing places to spend August in Asia.

LOCATION: Gobi Desert

GETTING THERE: Roads in Mongolia are in poor condition and often not even really roads, so driving to the desert yourself is not advisable. Most visitors join a small group tour organized by one of the many guesthouses in Ulaanbaatar.

WHERE TO STAY: Gana’s Guesthouse in Ulaanbaatar. They will arrange for you to camp or sleep in a ger (Mongolian yurt) in the desert.

While many Asian destinations are unbearably hot in August, in Mongolia this is the perfect time to visit. Since the winters on the Mongolian steppes are bitterly cold, summer is definitely the high season here. Although it’s still quite an off-the-beaten-track destination, so even in high season you’ll still feel like you have Mongolia’s vast landscapes almost all to yourself.

While the domestic tourists tend to head up north to the blue waters of Khuvsgul Lake , the most popular destination for foreign visitors to Mongolia is the Gobi Desert.

If you’ve already visited another desert, such as the Sahara in northern Africa or the Atacama in Chile, you might think you don’t need to see another one. But the Gobi is not like most deserts, and what you see here will completely blow you away!

The landscapes within the Gobi are incredibly diverse, and there’s also a lot more plant and animal life than you would expect. There’s one strip of rolling sand dunes, called Khongoriin Els, that offers the quintessential desert scenery you’re probably expecting to see.

But elsewhere in the Gobi you’ll find huge boulders, rock formations created by natural erosion, and multi-coloured hills tinted by the minerals in the rock. There’s even a surprisingly green gorge, called Yolyn Am, where you’ll see horses and yaks grazing!

By Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

Sri Lanka is another great location that you should consider spending August in Asia. There is so much to do in the country. From the ancient ruins that country is famous for to the gorgeous coast that borders the island nation, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer.

The tropical weather makes it a great place to spend August in Asia. The only problem is narrowing it down to just a single destination.

8. Sigiriya

The central highlands of Sri Lanka are amazing and spending August in Asia here is quite the treat.

LOCATION: Sigiriya

GETTING THERE: If you’re coming from the airport, it’s best to a minibus from the airport, which will take you  6-7 hours. The closest train station is Habarana, which is 15km away. However, the train service to Colombo Airport is problematic since you have to travel into the city to catch a train.

WHERE TO STAY: August is the low season for Sri Lanka. All across the country, it’s very warm and wet. You can get amazing deals on luxury properties this time of year. We stayed at the Mahagedara Wellness Retreat , which had air-conditioned rooms and was surrounded by cool, green jungle.

Sigiriya is located in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka. Its primary draw is the ancient Sigiriya Fortress, also known as Sigirya Rock or Lion Rock . It’s so beautiful that it has been called the 8th wonder of the world.

August is a perfect time to visit Sigiriya Rock because the crowds were very light. I went early in the morning and was able to get open frames of the famous Lion Staircase that lead up to the summit. It’s also the best time of day to beat the heat climbing the 1200 stairs to the top.

Sigiriya Rock is also one of the vertices of the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka. From your base in Sigiriya, you can take day trips to Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura . All three of these locations were capital cities in ancient Sri Lanka. The Dambulla Cave Temples , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are close to Sigiriya and have been a continually operating monastery for over 2000 years.

My favourite activity in Sigiriya didn’t have all these accolades, but it was every bit as spectacular –  climbing Pidurangala Rock . During the construction of the Sigiriya Fortress, the monks who lived there were relocated to the adjacent Pidurangala Rock, and they still live there today.

For a small fee, they will let you visit their temple and climb to the summit of Pidurangala Rock, which is perhaps the best view of Sigiriya Rock in all of Sri Lanka. What’s more, by going in August without all the crowds, there is plenty of wildlife, particularly monkeys, playing in the jungles around the monastery and nearby ruins.

By Jenn and Ed from Coleman Concierge

Taiwan is another country that has found its way onto many people’s bucket list. The island country has a lot of nature that is worth exploring. It has been on our agenda for a long while, but we haven’t really gotten around to visiting it yet. From what I have heard, it is a great place to spend August in Asia. Read on to find out why.

Taiwan is a wonderful place to spend August in Asia.

LOCATION: Taipei

GETTING THERE: Although Taipei is served by two airports, it’s highly likely you will fly into Taiwan’s capital city via Taoyuan International Airport. From here, getting to town is easily achieved by MRT (subway), bus, taxi, or private transfer.

WHERE TO STAY: Taipei is a huge city with no shortage of excellent hotels and hostels. It’s best to stay somewhere central to access all of the city’s best gems easily. The best areas to stay in Taipei include Ximending, Xinyi, or near Taipei Main Station.

Taipei is an excellent destination to visit in Asia – brimming with history, culture, beautiful architecture, and of course, excellent street food. Some of the city’s most famous historical landmarks include Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, the National Palace Museum, Longshan Temple, and Sun Yat-Sen.

All of these offer a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history, accompanied by magnificent architecture. For the best views of the city, make sure to visit the tallest building in Taipei – Taipei 101.

Afterward, head out to Maokong Mountain, where you can take a lovely cable car ride over dreamy tea plantations. It’s a unique experience offering a stark contrast over the bustling streets you just witnessed.

While there’s plenty to do during the day, Taipei also has a fantastic nightlife scene. Among the most popular  things to do in Taipei at night , watching the mind-blowing sunset at Elephant Mountain and eating your way through Raohe Night Market is obligatory. 

August in Taipei can be rather sultry, so make sure to stay hydrated. It’s also important to know that typhoons aren’t uncommon during this month. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and always carry an umbrella. On most days, though, expect beautiful sunny skies.

By Mariza from Hop On World

Vietnam is one of my favorite countries. We spent three weeks exploring it from north to south and believe me, it was just not enough. From the mouth-watering delicacies to gorgeous landscapes, Vietnam has something for everyone.

You could choose to chill and let the world go by you or you could choose to be active and explore. Interestingly, it makes a great location to spend August in Asia. If you are thinking of heading this way, take a look at the spots in Vietnam that made our list.

10. Bao Loc

Bao Loc in Vietnam is a lovely place to spend August in Asia.

LOCATION: Bao Loc

GETTING THERE: Bao Loc is between Ho Chi Minh City and Dalat, so it’s recommended to have a car or a motorbike to get to the various attractions. There is a sleeper bus that travels between Ho Chi Minh and Bao Loc.

WHERE TO STAY: Most of the accommodations are guesthouses. You can get a private room with air conditioning for $7-$20 USD.

Bao Loc, located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, is a quiet and laid-back mountain area known to grow tea and coffee. While it’s typically not on a Vietnam itinerary, it’s a fabulous weekend spot to explore if you’re close to Dalat city.

Many visitors make a day trip here to visit the Dambri Tourist Area. The main attractions are the two gorgeous waterfalls – Dambri and Dasara. You’ll love seeing the large and impressive cascades surrounded by the luscious forest.

This place also has an amusement park vibe with riding a Ferris Wheel, riding a swan paddle boat, playing traditional outdoor games, swimming in the pool, and enjoying a picnic. It’s a fabulous spot to spend the day outdoors.

Other things to do in Bao Loc include visiting the Linh Quy Phap An Pagoda to see the sunrise or sunset with the clouds. You can also wander through the main downtown area as there are shopping malls, a lake to walk around, and plenty of local Vietnamese restaurants and dessert places to try.

In the evenings, stop by one of the local vendors selling hot and beverages such as soy milk and sugarcane juice and watch the people and cars pass by on the road.

By Jackie and Justin from Life Of Doing

Hanoi is a popular place to spend August in Asia.

LOCATION: Hanoi

GETTING THERE: The best and easiest way to get there is by booking a flight directly to Hanoi. If you’re flying from any bigger city in Asia, there are many cheap flights daily.

WHERE TO STAY: A first-timer in Hanoi? Head over to one of the hostels or hotels in the Old District to indulge yourself in Vietnamese culture. If you’re looking for an upscale accommodation to relax and avoid tourist crowds, head over to Tay Ho district next to beautiful West Lake.

You can expect pleasant weather and experience in Hanoi during August. The temperature is still high, but not as hot as during the summer. It averages from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius, and when you add the fact that everything is blooming, it just gives a sweet vibe while exploring hidden places around the city.

August is the month that features a high humidity rate and the probability of rainfall, but don’t judge it fast. I’ve been in Hanoi during July and August, and I’ve been caught by a rain a few times during these two months.

You can expect short, but heavy showers, and if you’re driving a motorbike, it’s mandatory to bring a raincoat. Once it starts to rain, people just stop, put their raincoats on, and everything continues as usual.

In August, you can expect lower prices and fewer tourist crowds as it’s not the peak season, which will give you a chance to explore the majority of places without sharing with thousands of other tourists. That’s by far my favorite.

While in Hanoi, don’t forget to explore tiny streets of the Old Quarter, do some shopping, indulge in delicious cuisine, and of course, get drunk with locals drinking their cheap bia hoi (fresh beer). If you’re running out of ideas, a balanced Hanoi itinerary will give you some refreshing ideas for things to do in Hanoi.

Once you get bored with Hanoi, there are many options for excellent day trips. I suggest heading to breath-taking Halong Bay or Ninh Binh area to experience stunning nature far away from the busy city.

By Antonio from Vietnam Chronicles

12. Ninh Binh

Location: Ninh Binh

Getting There: You can take a bus to Ning Binh

Where To Stay: Lalita Boutique Hotel & Spa Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is one of my favorite places in Vietnam. Not only is the city pretty laid back, you can also stay on the outskirts and chill at one of the numerous luxury resorts.

Ninh Binh isn’t only known for its luxuries. It also is home to some fascinating natural and manmade attractions. We rented a scooter and wandered around the area. Some of the natural wonders that should be on your bucket list are the Van Long nature reserve , Tam Coc and Trang An . 

These are amazing waterways. You can sit on a boat and take in the landscape and head into the caves which is definitely something that you should try. If you have time to pick just one, I highly recommend Trang An. The lines are so much shorter here!

Make sure to add Bai Dinh temple to your itinerary too. This temple is very pretty and so quiet. We spent a long while just sitting in a quiet spot here. 

And there you have it. Our extensive list of places that you can spend August in Asia. Trust me, I understand that it is really hard to choose but these places come highly recommended by people who travel Asia frequently.

I hope that this helps. If you have other locations that you think should be on the list, let us know in the comments below!

*This post contains Affiliate links

* * The photographs in this post are not the property of Globetrove and have been provided by the individual authors.

Saturday 11th of April 2020

I love Vietnam, but I'm dying to go to Japan and Bali! Great tips!

Katie | KatieGoes

ooooh Kazakstan! That place is on my list! Just look at those mountains - amazing!

So many beautiful places! I have been to Kanazawa in Japan and this city is fabulous during Cherry Blossom season! Sakura are everywhere and particularly beautiful!

The Gobi desert looks amazing. I'd love to visit this place!

Sandra // BlueMarble Vagabonds

Have already been to Indonesia, Malaysia, and SriLanka, but now I'm eyeing India & Japan! Can't wait to travel again!

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

Where to go in august.

TripSavvy /  Jiaqi Zhou  

August in Asia is mostly hot, humid, and wet, but plenty of big festivals help make up for the sweltering weather! Numerous independence celebrations in India and across Southeast Asia mean plenty of parades, fireworks, and street parties.

August is the last month of the busy summer season ; crowds will take a slight downturn in some places, mostly toward the end of the month, as students return to school. The monsoon season will be keeping scenery green in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. East Asia will be especially hot and humid.

Important Considerations for August in Asia

Obon — a festive celebration — begins in Japan, but the end of August is one of the peak times for typhoons and tropical storms that hit Japan . Keep an eye on storms in the area; they may affect flights to Japan and South Korea.

Asia Weather in August

Here are a few average temperatures (high / low) and humidity for popular destinations in Asia:

• Bangkok: 91 F / 78 F (humidity 76 percent)
• Kuala Lumpur: 90 F / 74 F (humidity 79 percent)
• Bali: 80 F / 74 F (humidity 78 percent)
• Singapore: 88 F / 78 F (humidity 79 percent)
• Beijing: 86 F / 70 F (humidity 75 percent)
• Tokyo: 88 F / 79 F (humidity 72 percent)
• New Delhi: 93 F / 80 F (humidity 77 percent)

Average rainfall for the month of August

• Bangkok: 7.51 inches
• Kuala Lumpur: 6.38 inches
• Bali: .02 inches
• Singapore: 5.9 inches
• Beijing: 2.88 inches
• Tokyo: .65 inches
• New Delhi: 5.62 inches

August in Southeast Asia

The monsoon season continues to bring rain to northern parts of Southeast Asia such as Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. Meanwhile, Indonesia and destinations farther south get to keep enjoying mostly sunny weather.

Singapore and Kuala Lumpur are exceptions. Although they are both in the south, they receive ample rainfall throughout the year. August brings plenty of pop-up showers mixed with sunshine, but it's still one of the drier months to visit .

August is the driest and most pleasant month to visit Bali before rain begins to increase in September.

These destinations should have drier weather, but Mother Nature does as she pleases. Tropical storms moving into other parts of Asia can push rain to destinations even during the dry months.

• Bali, Indonesia
• Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
• Tioman Island, Malaysia
• Much of Indonesia
• Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo
• Central Vietnam is drier than the rest of the country

Places with the Worst Weather

Although rain and humidity are a problem, they don’t completely shut down travel or enjoyment in a place. Showers are often only a problem in the hot afternoons, with plenty of sunshine between. There are some advantages to traveling during monsoon season .

• Langkawi, Malaysia (rain)
• India (hot and wet)
• China (hot and wet)
• Japan (tropical storms)
• Hong Kong (rain)
• Thailand (rain)
• Cambodia (rain)
• Laos (rain)
• Nepal (hot and wet / snow at higher elevations)

What to Pack

Expect to get wet while traveling Asia in August! Have a plan for waterproofing your passport, camera, smartphone, and other valuables. No need to carry an umbrella or rain poncho 8,000 miles from home: they'll be for sale on every corner.

August is also a very hot month in most places. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and take the usual precautions. You should pack extra shirts to change in the evenings after a day of sweating. Even better, support local shops and designers by buying some unique tops once you arrive.

Increased rainfall often means an increased mosquito population. Protect yourself with good repellent brought from home and by burning coils (available in local mini-marts) when sitting outside.

August Events in Asia

Some of these big summer festivals , particularly the independence days, could affect your travels. Transportation may be filled before and after events as people move around the country to take advantage of national holidays. Time your arrival a few days in advance to enjoy holidays without paying a premium for flights and accommodation!

• India Independence Day: (August 15) India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947. The day is marked with parades, pageants, and patriotic festivities. New Delhi is the epicenter for this Indian holiday .
• Queen’s Birthday in Thailand: (August 12) Queen Sirikit Kitiyakara is dearly loved by the Thai people. Her birthday is celebrated with performances on public stages along with a parade and plenty of food. The Queen’s Birthday (also considered Mother's Day in Thailand) is big in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
• Indonesian Independence Day: (August 17) Indonesia declared their independence from Dutch rule in 1945. Known as Hari Merdeka Indonesia , the day and week leading up to the holiday are filled with parades, military processions, outdoor games, and special events.
• Malaysian Independence Day: (August 31) Malaysia’s Independence Day is also referred to as Hari Merdeka . A parade and plenty of fireworks rock Kuala Lumpur for the annual Malaysian Independence Day celebration.
• Hungry Ghosts Festival: (dates vary; sometimes in August) The Hungry Ghosts Festival is a Taoist holiday celebrated by Chinese communities throughout Southeast Asia. The festival is observed with gusto in Singapore and Malaysia.
• Singapore National Day: (August 9) Singapore celebrates their independence from Malaysia with a famous National Day Parade and fireworks. National Day is a very busy and exciting time to be in Singapore .
• Obon: (dates vary depending on location in Japan) Japan’s Obon is a festive time with lanterns, folk dances, and events to honor ancestors. Temples and shrines are especially busy. Although Obon — often simplified to just Bon — is not an official national holiday, many families travel to pay respects to ancestors.

August Travel Tips

Be on the lookout for typhoons and tropical storms that could affect travel in East Asian destinations such as Japan and South Korea.

Bali and top destinations in Southeast Asia that aren't in the middle of monsoon season in August will be busier than usual. You're going to have to share your island paradise!

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

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

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

The Biggest Events and Festivals in Asia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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20 Best Places in Asia you Must Visit

So you’re planning a trip to Asia? How exciting! I still get butterflies whenever I think about my adventures throughout the continent. It has more life, vibrance and chaos than any other region in my eyes. From the kind hearts of Thailand to the island way of life in Bali, these are the best places in Asia you must visit.

Whether you’re soul searching or just looking for a place to unwind and ditch reality, Bali is a spiritual oasis. Bali is the kind of place you don’t just visit once. I have been a handful of times thanks to Bali’s proximity to Australia. You can read our full guide to Bali here .

Kyoto was once the capital of Japan and as such has a great amount of history and culture to discover. You’ll need at least a few days to discover all this city has to offer. From the Bamboo Forrest to the famous Fushimi Inari shrine which features a seemingly endless line of torii gates.

The capital of Japan, Tokyo , has built a name for itself as one of the quirkiest capital cities in the world. From cat cafes to robot dance parties, there really isn’t anything that hasn’t been thought of. What’s more, the crazier the idea, the more popular it becomes!

There is no other city in Asia that blends the East and West quite as seamlessly as Hong Kong. You will only need 48 hours in Hong Kong to get a taste of what the city has to offer. More time is of course recommended, but I have still had a fun time in fleeting visits.

First time visitors could easily pass a week in this vibrant city. Indeed, the first time I visited Hong Kong I stayed for nine days. There are endless Buddhist temples to explore, Mongkok’s famous street markets, Hong Kong’s island impeccable views from the Peak! And you can even add a short day trip to China (Shenzhen) for some retail therapy.

Phuket, Thailand

The mountainous island of Phuket has quickly become one of Asia’s most sought after travel destinations and for good reason. Crystal blue waters, epic day hikes and incredible Thai cuisine make Phuket a dream destination for many. Phuket is full of luxury villas with epic views over the Andaman sea. All of them are within arms reach of the beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife of Phuket.

This once sleepy resort town in Cambodia became a tourist hot spot with thanks to the Tomb Raider film. You may remember the scene where Lara Croft runs through these very temples. Angkor Wat is the most famous of the temples, however there are a handful to explore. You can easily spend a day wandering through all of them.

I still think the Maldives is the most romantic destination I have been in my life. It is everything you would expect and more. With crystal clear waters and some of the best snorkelling I have seen the world over! There are endless hotels to choose from and many of them are floating on private islands.

In recent years Bhutan has been building a name for itself as one of the world’s bucket list destinations and one look at this epic scenery will leave little to the imagination as to why this is a photographer’s dream destination. This is one of the few remaining countries with no Western influence (i.e. no McDonalds or Starbucks) and is known as the last of the Himalayan Buddhist kingdoms.

One of Asia’s most popular small towns that has somehow managed to retain its culture and charm despite the influx of tourism, Hoi An is hands down one of the prettiest destinations in Asia to visit.

Situated in the North of Thailand, Chiang Mai has become a traveller’s favourite destination for visitors to Thailand. Known for its incredible cultural sights and thriving coffee shop scene, Chiang Mai has become a quick favourite for young travellers backpacking Asia looking for a cultural experience beyond the beautiful beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui.

Tourism in Sri Lanka is undergoing a major revival as travellers make their way to the small island country to experience what has been dubbed “India lite”. Here you can enjoy an Asian safari, board a train to the beautiful tea plantations in Kandy or spend your days on a beach learning to surf at one of the many recently emerged surf and yoga schools.

The capital of South Korea, Seoul has become a hot spot for young travellers looking to experience a thriving city of skyscrapers, subways, K-pop culture and incredible food.

Dubai has become on of Asia’s most popular stopover cities for travellers heading across the globe from one side to the other, thanks to its unique location in the centre of travel paths. The city itself is a thriving metropolis but a short drive out of the city you will find tranquility in the sand dunes.

Renowned for its authenticity, mountainous terrain and friendly locals, Laos has quickly become a must visit destination on traveller’s itineraries throughout Southeast Asia. The location of Laos makes it a great combination to visit with neighbouring Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam.

Pangkor Laut, Malaysia

If you’re looking for an Asian honeymoon destination that is a little more budget friendly (over say the Maldives), then look no further than the idyllic Pangkor Laut in Malaysia. Here you can score an overwater bungalow for a fraction of the price you would pay in the Maldives or where the phenomenon began in Bora Bora, Tahiti.

India is a dream destination for many and if you were to travel all that way, you absolutely could not visit without stepping foot in Jaipur and marvelling at the incredible architecture.

Another must visit on any traveller’s India itinerary would be to visit the Taj Mahal in Agra – an ivory-white mausoleum commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, to house the tomb of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Known most famously for the mesmerising Grand Mosque , Abu Dhabi is another of Asia’s most popular stopover cities. Located on the Persian Gulf, the city is also a popular spot for expats, making it a lively city to explore over a few days and nights.

Boracay, Philippines

If white sandy beaches and endless shades of blue are what you have in mind for your romantic getaway then look no further than Boracay in the Philippines. This area is renowned for its resorts and water activities, making it one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia.

Ha Long Bay, Hanoi

Known for its limestone islands topped by wild rainforests, Ha Long Bay is a must visit in Asia for those seeking the surreal. The area is populated by many junk boats each day touring around the epic scenery, but if you want something a little more adventurous you can also consider a kayak tour, rock climbing or hiking in the area.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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I live in Asia and have not been to most of these places! Thank you for sharing these fantastic places we can visit. I will save it for future!

I only went to seven of the places listed above. I hope to visit more places in the near future.

Hunza valley is worth visiting as well.

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17 bucket list destinations in Asia you’ll want to add to your 2023 itinerary

Asia is the largest continent in the world. The continent is a melting pot of cultures, which varies from region to region. The place has a varied landscape, complete with snow-capped peaks, volcanoes, and a vast gastronomic culture. So, in case you’re already looking to plan your international trips for 2023, check out the best places in Asia that we feel should definitely make the cut.

Whether it be long treks that bring you the most amazing views or destinations known for their gastronomic delights, Asia is filled with wonders. Some of the most popular tourist spots in the world are here, be it romantic destinations such as the Maldives or Nepal or home to the tallest mountain in the world. Thailand and Singapore, both known for their travel experiences and modernity, are in Asia, so is South Korea, a fast-emerging travel destination for most thanks to the Hallyu wave. Asia also houses destinations such as Japan, China and Cambodia, all known for their natural beauty, cultural heritage and their rich culinary culture.

Asia has been a relatively underexplored continent for a long while now. However, over the last couple of years, several Asian destinations have emerged as the topmost travel addresses in the world, both for remote workers and ardent travellers. From beaches in Bali to the pagodas in Myanmar, places in Asia have been on the travel maps for people across the world.

This is not all – there’s enough ancient ruins here for history buffs, and a variety of silks for shoppers to enjoy. There’s also plenty of local artefacts that you can purchase across tourist places in Asia, which will make your travel experience all the more immersive and fun.

So, in case you are looking for ideas to make your travel experiences in 2023 special, check out these tourist places in Asia that will promise you the experience of a lifetime.

Best tourist places in Asia you must visit in 2023

Jump to / table of contents.

• Singapore - Best City
• Indonesia - Best Beach Destination
• Goa - Best Beach Destination
• Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi - Best Wedding Destination
• Bangkok - Best Shopping Destination
• Maldives - Most Romantic Destination
• Malaysia - Best Digital Nomad Destination
• Japan - Best Cultural Destination
• Qatar - Best Family Vacation Destination
• Dubai - Best Adventure Destination
• Bhutan - Best Emerging Destination
• Uttarakhand - Best Emerging Destination
• Cambodia - Destination To Get A Taste Of Royalty
• Vietnam - Best Culinary Destination
• Bali - Best Destination To get Close To Nature
• Sri Lanka - Best Wildlife Destination
• Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan - Best stargazing destination

The island city of Singapore is also among the most popular in Asia for its tech and economy. The country is a haven for travellers, too, thanks to its stunning spots. That, combined with ample luxury hotels and a vast culinary culture, Singapore is definitely a place that calls out to all kinds of travellers. The cuisine here is an amalgamation of Indian, Chinese, Indonesian and other cuisine thanks to its largely immigrant population. Places such as Chinatown offer a peek into local ingredients, skincare and more, which will have you wanting more.

Best things to explore: Sentosa Islands, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens By The Bay, Singapore Flyer, Jurong Bird Park, Clarke Quay, Orchard Road, Chinatown

Things to eat: Satay, street food, chilli crab, nasi goreng

Best time to visit: December to June

How to reach: Changi Airport is well-connected to most countries by flight

Indonesia is the largest archipelago on Earth. The country is an amalgamation of thousands of islands (over 17,000 for sure), thus being home to enough beaches to last you a lifetime. The country is also home to Bali, the island that is visited by tourists from across the world. Bali houses wildlife parks, beautiful beaches and several historical sites to make for days of fun.

Best things to explore: Monkey Park in Ubud, beaches in Bali, Kuta and Lombok

Things to eat: Nasi Goreng, coconut water, rendang, satay

Best time to visit: December to June for the perfectly cool climate

How to reach: Destinations across Indonesia are well-connected to major countries via air

While Indonesia is a beach haven if you want to travel abroad, India’s own party capital, Goa, is no less. Blessed with some of the most stunning beaches along its coastline, Goa is heaven for those who love the sea, making it exceptionally popular among the youth. This is not all – the state comes complete with natural treasure troves as well as ample historical sites for the explorer in you.

Best things to explore: Beaches, forts, national parks, waterfalls, spice gardens

Things to eat: Xacuti, Poi, Goan-style curries

Best time to visit: November to February

How to reach: Goa is reachable by flight from all major countries and is also well-connected by train routes

Located in Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island is a beautiful mix of heritage, modernity and culture. The island is ideal for a destination wedding, being equipped with luxury resorts, hotels, beachy venues and gastronomic cuisine. This is not all – Abu Dhabi is home to places such as Yas Island, known for its adventure and tourism, and some of the most delicious food you’ll find. Perfect for a wedding and even your honeymoon!

Best things to explore: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Dubai

Things to eat: Shawarma, chicken rice, Ma Khoboz

Best time to visit: November to March

How to reach: Abu Dhabi and the UAE is well-connected to major countries by flight

Bangkok is heaven for those in the mood for some shopping. The capital of Thailand, Bangkok has enough malls and local markets for all kinds of shopping. Be it luxurious and on-trend clothes or knick-knacks that will amp up an outfit, Bangkok is definitely ahead of most countries when it comes to fashion trends, making for a great shopping experience.

Best things to explore: Temple of Dawn, sky train, malls and local markets

Things to eat: Thai curries, satay, Pad Thai, fried banana pancakes, dumplings

How to reach: The Bangkok airport has flights to and from most major countries

There’s no destination that speaks of romance like the Maldives . The beachy heaven is known for its luxe resorts, villas over seas and the most amazing experiences to cherish, Maldives is a great place to visit if you want to amp up the romance. No wonder that this is the preferred honeymoon destination for so many newlyweds! Spend some time by the sea, go scuba diving or explore the many islands there.

Best things to explore: Scuba diving, glowing beach, National Museum

Things to eat: Garudhiya, Masroshi, Banana flower salad

Best time to visit: October to March

How to reach: Male Airport is well-connected by destinations across the world. From there, hop onto a seaplane or a ferry to reach your island.

Thanks to the pandemic, lakhs of people worked from home, and thousands realised that this mode allowed them to travel in ways unimaginable earlier. So, if you’re one of them who is looking to be a digital nomad and work from anywhere, one of the best tourist places you can hit up is Malaysia. The country recently launched this visa, and is a relatively affordable destination to live in and work from. An added bonus? The stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage will make the experience a thoroughly enriching one for you!

Best things to explore: Petronas Twin Towers, Langkawi SkyCab, Batu Caves

Things to eat: Satay, Nasi Kerabu, Rendang

Best time to visit: November to April

How to reach: Malaysia is well-connected to most countries via flight

If you think of culture, heritage and ample delectable meals, the tourist place in Asia that will definitely come to mind is Japan . The country is known for its blooming cherry blossoms, ancient temples, old-age traditions and scrumptious offerings that it has given to the world. It’s also among the safest destinations for solo (especially women) travellers, making it a must-visit.

Best things to explore: Temples, bullet train rides, Japanese tea ceremony

Things to eat: Udon noodles, sushi, Japanese tea, Okonimiyaki

Best time to visit:  March to May, September to November (to be able to see cherry blossoms)

How to reach: Japanese airports are well-connected to major countries across the world

Qatar has been among the most popular emerging destinations for travellers. This can be attributed to the FIFA World Cup that’s happening there. The country (especially Doha, its capital), have been home to a host of visitors from across the world. And football aside, the country is a great destination for families to visit. With ample culture and heritage, paired with some of the best food (Middle-Eastern and otherwise), the country is truly among the best you can visit.

Best things to explore: Doha, mosques, beaches

Things to eat: Majboos, Luqaimat, Saloona

Best time to visit: December to early March

How to reach: Qatar is reachable by flights across the world

There’s something about Dubai that calls out to tourists like no other Asian destination. The city, a part of the UAE, is great for luxury travellers looking for fun adventures. Be it desert safaris or long water slides, Dubai has it all. You can also climb atop the tallest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa- for some magnificent views of the city.

Best things to explore: Desert safari, Dubai Aquarium, Burj Khalifa, Mall of Emirates

Things to eat: Manousheh, Chelo Kebab

Best time to visit: Winter (December to March) is the best season to visit Dubai.

How to reach: Dubai can be reached from almost all countries, thanks to its amazing connectivity

Bhutan is a quaint, simple country with a more laidback approach to life. The destination is filled with architectural marvels, especially its stunning natural beauty. This makes it among the best places in Asia to visit. This emerging destination will speak to the adventurer in you for sure!

Best things to explore: Monasteries, Tiger Hill, Paro

Things to eat: Ema Datshi, Khur Le

Best time to visit: The destination is a bit cold, so you can visit during the summers until December

How to reach: Bhutan can be reached from India via road and air

Uttarakhand has been popular for religious and spiritual tourism for a long while, especially in India. The destination is now emerging as a popular one for tourists of all kinds – leisure travellers, adventure tourists and more. Explore the state’s many lakes, temples and mountains for a fun time.

Best things to explore: Rafting in Rishikesh, lakes, treks

Things to eat: Bhaang ki chutney, Bal mithai, Khadi, Arsa

Best time to visit: Summers (May to October)

How to reach: Dehradun can be reached by air, while other destinations are well-connected by road and train

The royal destination is among the best places to visit in Asia. Cambodia is known for its beautiful landscapes, low-lying plains and stunning natural beauty. The destination is known equally for its cuisine, which boasts of rich, tropical and umami flavours.

Best things to explore: Angkor Wat, Koh Rong, Phnom Penh

Things to eat: Amok, Kuy Teav, pepper crab

Best time to visit: December to March

How to reach: Cambodia is well-connected by air

If there’s one cultural cuisine that bursts with umami goodness, it’s Vietnamese cuisine . The country, apart from its beautiful landscapes, is known for its food. Everywhere you go, you’ll be met with local, regional delicacies that will bowl you over, as you soak in new, exciting experiences and visit stunning destinations.

Best things to explore: Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City

Things to eat: Pho, Banh Mi, Banh Cuon

How to reach: Vietnam is well-connected via flights

Bali in Indonesia is a popular place in Asia known for its scenic natural beauty. Not just its beaches, Bali also has a rich heritage and culture, which draws crowds. And if you’re looking for a nature sojourn, the island has ample treks and trails for you to be one with your surroundings.

Best things to explore: Uluwatu, Ubud Monkey Park, Mount Batur

Things to eat: Babi Guling, Kopi Luwak, Lawar

Best time to visit: Winter months (December to March)

How to reach: The island is well-connected with all major countries by air

Sri Lanka is a mesmerising country you can visit. The nation is especially known for its beaches, nature and wildlife, all of which combine to provide you with the most amazing experience that you could imaging. Go on nature trails, visit wildlife parks and see the wild beasts up, close and personal in this country.

Best things to explore: Temples, forts

Things to eat: Sambal, curries, roti

How to reach: Sri Lanka can be reached by air or by sea

What’s key to clear skies? Clean air! And in Okinawa, Japan, you can experience it the best. Visit the destination for clear skies and water, and indulge your senses in some night-time stargazing sessions for a fun activity. Rest assured, the destination’s natural and cultural offerings will make for a wholesome trip!

Best things to explore: Stargazing, beaches, castles, temples

Things to eat: Soba noodles, Okinawan-style stewed pork, sea grapes

How to reach: Okinawa can be reached by air

Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of Dylan Shaw/Unsplash

Related: Plan Your Itineraries Well In Advance And Bookmark These Best Places To Visit In India In 2023

Anushka Goel

Anushka has worked with publications such as Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument.

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The Best Places to Go in Asia in 2024

By CNT Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

It’s official, Asia is back—brighter, bolder, and more ambitious than ever. The region took longer than others to shake off pandemic-related travel restrictions and border closures, but has returned in full force, eager to remind international travelers what they’ve been missing.

The continent’s titanic expanse of territories has always offered a diverse tapestry of to-dos—but across the region, new experiences, events, and accommodation options await. Sri Lanka is emerging phoenix-like from economic crisis and responding with a new food festival, wellness-oriented retreats, and a hiking trail that snakes through 186 miles of hill country and centuries of history. Mongolia is relaxing visa restrictions to give more people the opportunity to experience its vast, rugged landscapes, and Kochi is setting the bar high when it comes to city-wide sustainability initiatives. In the UAE , a lesser-known emirate is vying for attention, while a Japanese port city is flexing its design muscles.

Expanded green spaces, intriguing boutique resorts, luxury sleeper trains, and the ancient Silk Road: our list of the 11 best places to visit in Asia in 2024, entirely informed by contributing writers and editors spread across the region, is packed with reasons to head east.

Don’t forget to also visit our global list of best destinations to visit in 2024 , vetted by Condé Nast Traveler editors based in the US, UK, Spain, Middle East, India, and China. — Selina Denman & Julian Manning

Bangkok Chinatown, Thailand

Go for: a culinary renaissance in one of the world’s biggest Chinatowns

Always one of the buzziest districts in Bangkok, Chinatown makes the list this year for its ever-exciting food scene. In the year ahead, expect a new wave of restaurants to sprout in this neon-glowing nexus.

With its mom-and-pop noodle joints, incense-infused shrines, and tuk-tuks clattering through centuries-old alleyways, Chinatown has always been one of Bangkok 's buzziest districts. In the mid-2010s, chefs, mixologists, and gallerists started setting up shop in the crumbling townhouses on the district's outskirts and now, a new wave of restaurateurs is headed for Chinatown's neon-glowing nexus, Yaowarat Road. Among them is Australian chef and Thai food guru David Thompson, who, at his Chop Chop Cook Shop , riffs on recipes—buttered prawns, braised peas—from the Chinese-Western restaurants that were all the rage across Bangkok in the 1930s. Upstairs, Goldsmith Bar transforms ingredients commonly found in the neighborhood—shiitake syrup, osmanthus oolong—into heady drinks, and will soon be joined by a Chinese restaurant on the top floor and rooftop terrace.

Lucky Duck , another newcomer, has taken up residence in a historic building nearby and serves up drinks inspired by old-timey Chinese films. Perennially packed Thai restaurant Charmgang is set to open a more laid-back sibling, Charmkrung, where wines and light bites will dominate the menu; and judging from the many buildings currently concealed by tarpaulin and bamboo scaffolding, more bars and restaurants will follow suit. But how much change is too much? 2024 presents a chance to experience the charm of this storied district while still in flux. — Chris Schalkx

Da Nang, Vietnam

Go for: nature reserves, central Vietnamese cuisine, the firework festival

The “City of Bridges,” Da Nang, is a 21st century oceanfront destination linked to ancient trading hubs and imperial centers. Take advantage of new flights into Da Nang to explore the entire coast.

The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival is just one popular event in this central Vietnam city—other attractions, like distinctly local dishes, are on offer year-round.

A modern beach city located amid dozens of UNESCO -recognized sites in the country’s heartland—including the ancient port city of Hoi An and the former imperial capital city of Hue—Da Nang is one of Asia’s big post-COVID success stories, with 2023 international arrivals exceeding pre-pandemic figures, thanks in part to new flight routes that make the City of Bridges easier to get to than ever. In 2023, Vietnam Airlines reopened its popular Tokyo route, Taiwan ’s China Airlines started direct flights from Taipei, and several Southeast Asian budget airlines launched flights to the city, with plenty more in the works. Every June, more than 150 daily flights deliver tourists eager to witness the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival.

Son Tra Peninsula—located just 20 minutes from the city center—is another tourist draw, home to a 17-story, 220-foot statue of Lady Buddha, as well as endangered red-shanked douc langurs that live in the peninsula’s nature reserve. Central Vietnamese food specialties like Mì Quảng, the official noodle soup of the region, and Bánh Xèo turmeric crepes, should be another feature of any travel itinerary.

Hotel and resort developers are taking note of Da Nang’s newfound popularity. On Son Tra Peninsula, the Bill Bensley-designed InterContinental Sun Peninsula Resort recently completed an extensive 10th-anniversary renovation that includes a new club lounge, villas, and spa concept. IHG Hotel Group’s voco Ma Belle Danang opened in the city in 2023, and 2024 will herald the arrival of Da Nang’s first Mandarin Oriental property and an outpost of the wellness-driven Southeast Asian Fusion Hotel group. — Dan Q. Dao

Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Go for: lesser-known walking trails, new vantage points, an international folk festival

The Mustang Trail Race is just one of many events on the horizon for Kathmandu Valley designed to encourage visitors to embrace and immerse themselves in the Himalayan landscape.

Kathmandu Valley’s standing as Nepal ’s cultural hub will be revived in early 2024 with the return of the International Folk Festival-Nepal in March—its first in-person iteration since 2020—and the biennial Film Southasia , South Asia’s premier documentary festival, later in the year.

Atop Kathmandu Valley’s picturesque ridges lie the emergent destinations of Dhulikhel and Chandragiri, replete with hidden trails that are an unexpected alternative to Nepal’s more well-trodden and strenuous trekking routes. In Dhulikhel, Thai hospitality outfit Dusit Hotels and Resorts recently launched a charming luxury resort , while nearby, the Namo Buddha Eco Resort offers an opportunity to explore Nepal’s sustainable agricultural practices.

Bolstered by a commitment to improve the country’s tourism infrastructure with the launch of Nepal’s Tourism Decade in 2023, 2024 will see the Kathmandu Valley continue to serve as a gateway to the rest of Nepal’s tourism hotspots, with improved road and air connectivity between Kathmandu and the valleys of Pokhara and Mustang. As the 2024 additions to Pokhara’s hospitality landscape, such as Le Glamour Luxury Resort , set up in lofty vantage points across the valley, easier access to the once-remote Mustang Valley is similarly leading to the introduction of luxury accommodation options such as the stunning 29-suite Bill Bensley-designed Shinta Mani Mustang, and events such as the Mustang Trail Race, designed to encourage visitors to fully immerse themselves in this singular Himalayan landscape. — Amulya Gyawali

Kobe, Japan

Go for: high design with a sense of place

In Kobe, Japan, design-forward spaces, like the new Officine Universelle Buly skincare shop (left), are creatively building on its seafaring heritage.

Sandwiched between steep mountains and sparkling seas in southwestern Japan , the port city of Kobe is seriously strengthening its design credentials. Taking centre stage is Vague Kobe , a new creative space by Teruhiro Yanagihara Studio (TYS). Spanning the upper levels of an elegant former 1930s bank, it houses a gallery, bookstore, café, wine bar, flower shop, and design studio. In a perfectly measured showcase of contemporary Japanese design—and a reflection of Kobe’s seafaring heritage—renovated interiors combine crafted walls of traditional Japanese plasterwork and clean minimalist lines with large windows, stone floors, and ornate tilework.

Further proof of Kobe’s design ascendency was the arrival of French artisanal perfume and skincare brand Officine Universelle Buly in mid-2023, its shop and café interiors flamboyantly layered in signature style—from Kobe beef-inspired expanses of red-veined marble to chocolate-like lacquerware and “dripping” lamps. Recent plans by Trunk , arguably Tokyo’s hippest hotel group, to make Kobe the setting for its first hotel outside the capital is further evidence of the city’s prominence. And Kobe Port Tower —a panoramic observation deck on the shores of Osaka Bay—will reopen in early 2024 with a string of new facilities, including a new museum showcasing light-themed artworks and a fancy 360-degree revolving café bar. — Danielle Demetriou

Kochi, India

Go for: sustainable initiatives, stunning waterways, local festivals

Kochi's draws are modern and old-school in equal measure. For one thing, Kochi's 10 islands will become fully solar-powered by 2024. But local festivals like the ancient temple gathering of Thrissur Pooram and the Kochi-Muziris Biannale maintain the texture and history that make the place special.

Kochi’s waterways have lured visitors for centuries, its verdant backwaters, lagoons and rivers as attractive to travelers today as they were to Arab, Chinese, and European merchants in the 1300s. As one of the first in the world, its water metro system—a socially inclusive transport option connecting 10 islands along a 50-mile network—was already revolutionary when it launched in 2021, but will set the bar even higher by late 2024, when it becomes fully solar powered.

The move is part of a wider effort to transform Kerala ’s financial and industrial capital into a solar powerhouse. The city’s international airport (CIAL) is the first in the world to operate solely on solar energy and was recently upgraded with the introduction of a dedicated business jet terminal that’s the largest in India. This will be complemented by a refreshed airport hotel in mid-2024, as the current property is brought under the Taj banner and upgraded accordingly. Improvements are also underway at Kochi’s 150-year-old Ernakulam Market, which is set to unveil its years-in-the-making redesign in early 2024.

On a wider scale, Kerala Tourism 2.0, the state’s $43 million 2023-2024 sustainable tourism initiative, will focus on improving infrastructure and travel corridors between Kochi and less-visited destinations such as Munnar and Kozhikode—as well as local festivals, from the ancient temple gathering of Thrissur Pooram to the Kochi-Muziris Biennale . Meanwhile, responsible tourism operator The Blue Yonder —which created a twilight dining experience inspired by Kochi’s historic Chinese fishing nets in 2023 in Ezhikkara—offers opportunities to experience conservation-focused mangrove trails and climate-resilient Pokkali rice farms, alongside it revamped 2023-2024 Nila River voyages: two-week odysseys along the state’s cultural lifeline, from the Palakkad gap to Ponnani. — Taarika John

Go for: improved access, unique cultural festivals, and unscripted adventure

Thrill-seeking adventure travelers will always find something to love about Mongolia, and it will never be easier for them to do so than in 2024 with the first direct US flights, a new crop of nationalities who can visit visa-free, and more.

Mongolia has long been the destination for thrill-seeking adventure travelers—as participants in the wonderfully chaotic Mongol Rally will attest—but the country is expanding beyond that niche as its tourism board sets its sights on attracting a million tourists per year. In 2023, the country launched visa-free travel for a further 34 nationalities—bringing the total up to 61—in a campaign that is set to run until 2025.

The launch of new luxury lodges, cultural tours, and the announcement of the country’s first ever direct US flight, coming in 2024 to the $650-million Chinggis Khaan International Airport, further signal Mongolia’s tourism ambitions.

Following the success of the rugged-but-chic Three Camel Lodge , Mongolia’s luxury accommodation options are expanding with places such as Yeruu Lodge , which opened in 2023. Offbeat cultural experiences are one of the most compelling reasons to visit the country’s vast, rugged expanses and local operator Breanna Wilson offers some of the best. After a successful season of horse trekking and the Naadam Festival—a colorful display of strength, horsemanship, and marksmanship—in 2023, Wilson is expanding her 2024 tours to include a digital nomad week, a women-only retreat in Orkhon Valley, and a three-day archery training session with Namnaa Academy , an organization that began reviving the ancient art of mounted archery in 2020. — Ali Wunderman

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

Go for: exhilarating adventure sports, luxurious accommodation options

Adventure tourism developments are in the works in Ras Al Khaimah's rocky mountains (and along its undersung coastline), with Jebel Jais acting as the home base for a burgeoning hiking and ziplining scene.

With its rocky mountains and low-key coastline, Ras Al Khaimah has long served as a weekend escape for UAE residents. But with several adventure tourism developments in the works and an influx of luxury properties lining up to open in the UAE’s fourth-largest emirate, there’s plenty happening now to put Ras Al Khaimah on the global tourism map. On an island just off the coast, the 174-room Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort , home to the country’s first overwater villas, will welcome its first guests in January—to be joined by a 155-room Nikki Beach Resort in 2026.

But most of the action is happening on the slopes of Jebel Jais , the UAE’s highest mountain. Among the peaks that are already home to the world’s longest zipline, adrenaline-lovers will soon be able to launch themselves into the blue beneath the canopy of a paraglider with the new Jais Wings experience. And if all that activity leaves you longing for a comfortable place to rest, the 70 luxurious rooms at nature-focused Saij Mountain Lodge will be perfect for bedding down once it opens in 2024. To top it all off, Qatar Airways resumed operating daily flights direct from its Doha hub to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport in November, making this lesser-known emirate more accessible than ever. — Nicola Chilton

The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Go for: bragging rights, pristine nature, a new take on sustainability

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea has both untouched desert and vibrant coral reefs—both of which will be part of an ambitious sustainable tourism development in the destination in 2024.

Creating a completely new tourism destination in an area of pristine natural beauty—including coral reefs that are home to critically endangered species, unspoiled desert, and dormant volcanoes—is a fine tightrope to walk. Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea aims to navigate these challenges with ambitious efforts that will make it a center of regenerative tourism, powered by 100% renewable energy. Only 22 of the more than 90 islands in the area will be developed, and nine have been designated as protected conservation areas. While many of the sustainability efforts will be behind the scenes, some are visible—and visitable.

New mangrove parks will be populated with trees currently being grown in a mangrove nursery (the project aims to plant 50 million by 2030). The first phase of the destination, which includes 16 luxury hotels, is powered by 760,000 solar panels, and the world’s first zero-carbon 5G network has already been installed. Three resorts— Six Senses Southern Dunes , Nujuma, and The St. Regis —are set to open in the coming months, each with its own strict program of sustainability measures, ranging from light-touch modular structures to intelligent landscaping, smart waste management, and local sourcing. Transport within the destination will be by e-vehicles, and hydrogen-powered seaplanes will eventually transport visitors between the islands. Whether a luxury tourist destination can ever truly be sustainable remains to be seen, but the efforts being made in the Red Sea are certainly testing the hypothesis. — Nicola Chilton

Go for: forest trails, new luxury stays, and Taylor Swift hype

Singapore's glamour has always been legendary, but things will be taken up a notch next year as Belmond returns with its long-awaited Eastern & Oriental Express—a new journey will take passengers from Singapore to Malaysia and back again come February.

Even by Singapore ’s hyperkinetic standards, 2024 is shaping up to be an unusually livewire year. March will usher in Taylor Swift hype at the National Stadium in Kallang, as the pop star lights up the waterfront venue in her sole South East Asian stop on the record-shattering The Eras Tour. Hotel bookings have reportedly surged in anticipation, right on the heels of a string of high-profile openings in 2023, including the much-anticipated Mondrian Singapore Duxton near Chinatown. Relaunches and openings will continue into 2024, with the Grand Hyatt on the plush Orchard Road-Scotts Road juncture unveiling a completely new look, and Raffles inaugurating its villa-style spa and resort on Sentosa Island .

Singapore is also adding exciting accoutrements to its impressive green quilt. At Gardens by the Bay , the country’s landscaping masterpiece, the longest sculpture in the world—a 300-foot parade depicting 60 endangered animals cast in bronze—is on display until May. Cycling paths are coming to 10 additional neighborhoods (Jurong Lake District and Punggol among them), and some will be linked to the city’s more than 300km-long green network of park connectors. A 755-foot-long forest trail and a lagoon pool will be among the highlights of the soon-to-reopen Big Sister’s Island marine park.

Not to forget Singapore’s legendary glamour, which holds sway over everything, as Belmond returns with its long-awaited Eastern & Oriental Express , kicking off a new journey from Singapore to Malaysia and back in February. In September, the country has its annual date with Formula 1 at the iconic Marina Bay Street Circuit, which, as F1’s original night race, is set against a dazzling backdrop of skyscrapers and city lights. — Lakshmi Sankaran

The Silk Road, Uzbekistan

Go for: the ancient charm of the Silk Road charging into the future with new high-speed rail routes

Samarkand is one of four cities in Uzbekistan benefitting from a renewed interest in the Silk Road, with Afrosiyob, a new high-speed rail network linking its minarets and turquoise-blue tiling with the country's capital of Tashkent—and more. Routes to Khiva, 2024's tourism capital of the Islamic world, will come online next year.

For centuries, traders journeyed along the ancient Silk Road, weaving westwards from China to Iran and Turkey, sharing their stories and cultures alongside textiles, tea, and perfume. Today, four cities in Uzbekistan —Samarkand, Tashkent, Bukhara, and Khiva—are benefitting from renewed interest in this historic route. Explorers may once have had to contend with long, arduous journeys on camel-back, but new Afrosiyob high-speed trains have become a lifeline linking Tashkent, the country’s capital, to Samarkand and Bukhara. In 2024, this 373-mile rail network will extend to Khiva, making it even easier to explore Uzbek Silk Road cities.

While Samarkand’s minarets and turquoise-blue tiling are hallmarks of regal Timurid architecture—evident in the towering monoliths of Registan Square— Bukhara is the site of beguiling mosque complexes and age-old rug-making traditions. In Tashkent, the host of 2024’s FIFA Futsal World Cup , heritage is combined with a more cosmopolitan verve, and Swissôtel is slated to open its first property here in 2024.

Khiva, the latest rail stop, has also been declared 2024’s tourism capital of the Islamic world, perfectly positioning it to showcase the mud-and-straw walls and impeccably preserved fortifications of Itchan Kala , a UNESCO-certified inner city with over 50 historic monuments. — Lakshmi Sankaran

South and central Sri Lanka

Go for: wellness retreats, a new food festival, and a nearly 200-mile nature trail

Kayaam House is one of several openings that signals the luxury and wellness boom marking Sri Lanka's tourism industry right now.

Rising from economic uncertainty, Sri Lanka ’s tourism industry is in the midst of a luxury and wellness boom—from its tea-filled highlands to its palm-fringed shores. In the south of the country, new luxury resorts continue to entice. Among them, Kayaam House and Ahu Bay by homegrown luxury travel specialist Resplendent Ceylon; a Hilton resort next to the Indian Ocean-bordering Yala National Park, one of the best places to spot Sri Lanka’s elusive leopards; and the art deco-inspired The Charleston , which opens in December in the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. The already established Kalukanda House —a villa in surf town Weligama by British-Sri Lankan interior designer Dee Gibson—is making its mark with retreats centered on female empowerment, with yoga, breath work, reiki, and Ayurveda included.

A comprehensive renovation of the nine-room Meraki , which employs local women and offers yoga, holistic treatments, island-sourced vegetarian fare, and artisanal crafts in the Polhena Beach district of Matara, is set to be unveiled in early 2024; and luxury fitness getaway Makahiya is gearing up to launch its own brand of bespoke retreats.

In January, the Galle Literary Festival will return after a five-year hiatus, with appearances by literary figures such as Shehan Karunatilaka and Alexander McCall Smith, while Gourmet Galle , the country’s new food festival, will spotlight 12 chefs in 12 venues, ranging from beaches to paddy fields, over a 12-week period from January to March.

Inland, development of the Pekoe Trail , a new nearly 200-mile network of hiking routes that snakes its way through Sri Lanka’s highlands, continues. Traversing historic tea plantations, colonial estates, local villages, holy shrines, and forests brimming with biodiversity, it’s a novel way to experience Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, particularly when paired with stays at boutique properties such as W15 Hanthana , the luxurious Goatfell , or the Kelburne Estate , scheduled to open in December 2024. — Zinara Rathnayake

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Destinations

12 Best Places To Travel In August

From canari island to montreal - these are some of the best places to travel to around the world for an unforgettable vacation in august..

By: Patricia Doherty Published: Jun 21, 2022 04:00 PM IST

If your ideal summer holiday means warm weather, beaches, or poolside cabanas, we have some vacation ideas to consider as August arrives. Tucson and Santa Fe offer sunshine and poolside relaxation, but if you’re set on finding a sandy beach, why not consider Curaçao, or a bit further away, Tenerife or Montenegro. By Patricia Doherty

There are lots going on in Edinburgh, Montréal, and Denver should a city vacation be more your style. Outdoor enthusiasts will find what they seek in New York’s Adirondacks, California’s Santa Ynez Valley, and Macon, Georgia. For golf fans, a new resort or course often inspires a vacation, and August is a good time for at least a golf getaway.

So, if turning the calendar page to August reminds you that summer is fleeting, give some thought to these destinations or come up with travel ideas of your own.

Here are 12 of the best places to travel in August

Tucson, arizona.

The weather reaches the 30s (Celsius) in August, but you never have to be far from a pool or a cool drink. At Tanque Verde Ranch , Tucson’s old-style dude ranch, you can gather prickly pears during the Prickly Pear Harvest from August 14-31, and then reward yourself with a luscious pink prickly pear margarita. Summer evenings are beautiful in Tucson, and Miraval Arizona offers hikes in the Sonoran Desert under the stars. For the ultimate stargazing experience, visit Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter to observe the skies with professional astronomers. Experience the desert’s healing powers with a spa treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain , Loews Ventana Canyon , or Canyon Ranch Tucson , the brand’s original wellness resort. Stay in town at The Citizen Hotel , Tucson’s first wine hotel, set in the former home of the city’s oldest newspaper. A stay at the historic Hotel Congress also offers a look into Tucson ‘s fascinating past.

Located in the west-central Balkans along the Adriatic, Montenegro was formerly part of Yugoslavia. The towns of its Adriatic coastal region are popular with tourists for their beauty, restaurants, beaches, history, and culture. In Kotor , the International Summer Carnival begins in early August with concerts, culinary events, and a parade. The Montenegro Film Festival takes place in Herceg Novi during the first week of August when the 400-year-old Kanli Kula fortress becomes an amphitheatre showcasing domestic and international films. Polo in the Port is another summer happening with the world’s finest polo players competing in mid-August. Horse parades, music, and a gathering of superyachts make it a memorable event. On the Adriatic in the heart of Boka Bay, the luxurious One&Only Portonovi features a private sandy beach, world-class dining, dramatic views, and Chenot Espace for revolutionary wellness experiences. The Chedi Hotel & Residences in Tivat offers a variety of guestrooms, suites, and penthouse accommodations.

Edinburgh, Scotland

August is an exciting time in Edinburgh , and the temperature is around 18 degrees Celsius making it one of the best places to travel in August. The 75th Edinburgh International Festival from August 5-28, brings performers from the worlds of dance, opera, music, and theatre. At the same time, the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe means street performers, music, magic, circus acts, artists, audience participation, crowds, and fun. There’s also the Art Festival , Film Festival , Book Festival , Food Festival (late July), and outdoor markets. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place at Edinburgh Castle from August 5-27. Stay at the new Virgin Hotels Edinburgh in Old Town or at Gleneagles Townhouse , their first urban hotel, with an all-day restaurant and roof terrace. The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh combines Victorian style and luxury with views of the castle, an indoor pool, and a spa. Brendan Vacations can help with arrangements for touring Edinburgh during August or any time of the year.

Denver, Colorado

The “Mile High City” offers much to do during August, when the days are warm and the evenings are cool. Downtown Denver boasts restaurants, shops, museums , clubs, the Denver Performing Arts complex , and Union Station . More than a transportation hub, Union Station is home to world-class dining, shopping, and the Crawford Hotel . From Denver International Airport , a 37-minute train ride takes visitors to Union Station with just a few stops along the way. Baseball fans know Coors Field , home of the Colorado Rockies, and music fans love the Red Rocks Amphitheater , a favourite venue for both performers and visitors. Recently opened, The Slate Denver, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is set in a historic building near the Colorado Convention Center. The new pet-friendly Rally Hotel is located in McGregor Square adjacent to Coors Field.

The Adirondacks, New York

In northern New York, the Adirondack Mountains are home to lakes, hiking trails, fishing, waterfalls, history, and beautiful August weather. Visitors can explore Lake George from its beaches, but for a thrill, why not cruise the lake in a 37-foot yacht from Boatsetter . Stay in luxury at The Point Resort , the first Relais and Châteaux hotel in North America, located lakefront on Upper Saranac Lake. Guests (and their dogs ) are pampered as they enjoy the secluded 75-acre property. In Lake Placid, High Peaks Resort features three unique lodging experiences. Road trips through upstate New York offer stunning scenery, and Amtrak’s Adirondack train is another way to enjoy the landscape. Cape Air offers flights to Saranac Lake from New York City and Boston for a convenient trip.

Montréal, Canada

Located in southeastern Canada on the St. Lawrence River just north of Vermont, Montréal is lovely any time of the year. In August, temperatures in the 20s make it comfortable to stroll through Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal), the city’s historic centre with cobblestone streets and architecture dating to the 16th century. Visit Parc du Mont-Royal for a hike, picnic, bike ride, or rowboat on the lake. For lunch or just browsing, don’t miss the open-air Jean-Talon Market, and be sure to try one of the city’s famous bagels. The LGBT community celebrates Pride Festival from August 1-7 with a parade and a week of cultural events. IleSoniq brings electronic dance and urban music to the city from August 5-7, and MUTEK festival of digital creativity returns from August 23-28. Concert fans are also looking forward to Osheaga from July 29-31.

Santa Ynez Valley, California

About two hours north of Los Angeles, the Santa Ynez Valley offers world-class wine tasting, authentic Old West-style towns, a historic Danish-American community, and more than 300 wineries. “Wine and Fire” , August 18-21, celebrates the wines of the Santa Rita Hills. In Solvang, visitors stroll the quaint streets, stopping at restaurants, bakeries, tasting rooms, and shops. Stay at The Winston with meticulously decorated guestrooms and thoughtful amenities. At the pet-friendly contemporary-style Vinland Hotel & Lounge , there’s a heated pool and hot tub. Alisal Ranch , a luxury working ranch, features guest chefs and its signature Santa Maria-style barbecue. At San Ysidro Ranch , in the Santa Ynez Mountains foothills, plush private cottages include fireplaces, gardens, and sunken spas. Campers love Flying Flags in Buellton, not far from Ostrichland USA , a popular attraction. Road trippers can continue their California journey northward on the Highway 1 Discovery Route for gorgeous views and explore one of the best places to travel in August.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

The “City Different,” as Santa Fe is nicknamed, is warm during August, with temperature around 26 degrees Celsius. The Opera Season runs from July 1- August 27, and a show under the stars on a desert evening is unforgettable. From August 17-21, the Santa Fe Indian Market celebrates Native art and culture with music, dance, a fashion show, and a variety of handmade jewellery, textiles, baskets, and more. Santa Fe Music Week , August 27-September 3, features music from jazz to Latin, and rock a country with performances throughout Santa Fe. A unique event, The Burning of Zozobra , will be held on September 2, a time to let your gloom go up in smoke along with the mythical monster. The city offers many lovely places to stay including the luxurious Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi and Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resort Collection . There’s also the Inn & Spa at Loretto , Eldorado Hotel & Spa , Hotel Chimayo de Santa Fe , and Hotel St. Francis .

Curaçao

This Southern Caribbean island enjoys warm weather year-round, with August temperatures a little over 25 degrees Celsius and little rain, averaging 1.6 inches. Its location, 90 miles (144.84 km) north of Venezuela, places it outside of the hurricane belt, so late summer storms are rare. Curaçao, an autonomous country within the Royal Dutch Kingdom, has a European atmosphere along with its Caribbean style. August is considered off-season, so it’s a good time to shop for deals. Beaches, from secluded bays to luxurious resorts, offer swimming, snorkelling, diving, and beautiful scenery. Nature lovers will enjoy Christoffel Park, Curaçao’s largest national park, and adventurers should explore Hato Caves and Shete Boka National Park. Stay in a vacation home, hotel, or all-inclusive resort like Mangrove Beach Corendon Curaçao , set in the middle of the island’s mangrove forests. Near Curaçao’s capital of Willemstad, the Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort , on six oceanfront acres, offers a variety of water sports.

Macon, Georgia

“The Heart of Georgia” is both Macon ‘s nickname and location, near the centre of the state about 80 miles (128.74 km) southeast of Atlanta and 170 miles (273.58 km) inland from Savannah. Macon might be hours from the ocean, but there’s the Ocmulgee River where you can kayak, canoe, or float on a tube to keep cool during August’s warm weather. Spend a day at Sandy Beach Water Park with a wave pool, lazy river, and cabanas. Nearby Lake Tobesofkee features 35 miles (56.32 km) of shoreline, sandy beach, fishing, camping, and water sports. In town, visitors can explore history at Ocmulgee Mounds Historical Park , a prehistoric Native American site with wetlands, forests, and miles of trails. Museums include the Tubman Museum , the country’s largest museum dedicated to the art, history, and culture of African Americans. The Allman Brothers Band Museum and Capricorn Sound Studios are reminders of Macon’s role in music. Places to stay range from campgrounds to historic inns.

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Located off the coast of Morocco, Tenerife is the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands. A popular beach destination in summer when temperatures are well over 25 degrees Celsius, Tenerife offers a wide variety of shorefront spots from lively to secluded. For cooler weather and fascinating places to explore, Teide National Park ‘s volcanic landscape, petrified lava, and panoramic views are the perfect escape from the beach. A bar, restaurant, and visitor centre as well as roads throughout the park make it convenient for travellers. Boating, water sports , and whale watching are popular activities , and festivals attract visitors for a variety of celebrations throughout the year. Places to stay range from guest houses to resorts, from romantic inns to family hotels. Thus, making it one of the best places to travel in August.

National Golf Month — Multiple Destinations

Many of the world’s most picturesque travel destinations are golf courses, and quite a few vacations are centred around golf. From Florida to California, and of course, Scotland , golf courses attract players whose numbers are increasing each year. Interestingly, young adults (18-34-year-olds) are among the sport’s biggest segment, with 6.1 million on-course and 4.8 million off-course participants, according to data from the National Golf Foundation , and a total of 106 million either played or followed golf on television, radio or online in 2021. Three PGA TOUR events in August will determine this year’s FedEx Cup Champion . If watching these tournaments inspires you to give it a shot, it’s time to plan your own golf trip. Beginners can combine lessons with a great vacation at places like the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on Hawaii’s Big Island or The Kingdom at Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Georgia.

(This story first appeared on www.travelandleisure.com)

Related: The Best Places To Travel In July

• Edinburgh in Scotland
• Top Places To Visit In August

Patricia Doherty

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The 14 best places to travel in August 2024

Planning a summer holiday? From Alaska to Indonesia via Slovenia, these are the very best places to travel in August

August means holidays. Okay, every month can theoretically mean holidays in the modern world, but the whole ‘school’s out’ element certainly makes August premium time for stuffing the suitcase and heading off on a jaunt. Expect hot weather, sardine-can selfie space hustling and premium rates. Great!

Now now, weary traveller, leave that cynicism at the door because the world is ready to show its best side during the summer months. If you’re looking for something a little different, the best places to travel in August have plenty to offer, from the wilds of Alaska and the plains of East Africa to wintry South America and hiking in the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. What are you waiting for? 

RECOMMENDED: ✈️ The best places to travel  every month of the year 🧳 Full guide to the  best places to travel 🏘️ The world's  coolest neighbourhoods 📸 The best  cities for culture  right now

Need more inspo? Check out our latest travel guides , written by local writers. 

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Best places to travel in August

1.  Alaska

August is slightly rainier in Alaska than earlier summer months, but with fewer crowds and lower prices, the benefits often outweigh the weather risks. It’s a wonderful month to spot caribou, wolves and golden eagles in Denali National Park, as well as grizzly bears, who are busy hunting salmon so they can fatten up before hibernation. They also nibble on the season’s abundant berries – blueberries are particularly fat and juicy in Alaska – and you can also taste them at the annual Alyeska Berry Festival in Anchorage. Don’t miss Alaska State Fair in Palmer, which marks the last days of summer with concerts, fairground rides and street food.

Discover the best  things to do in Alaska

2.  Slovenia

Slovenia might just be Europe’s worst-kept secret. In August, the capital Ljubljana and Lakes Bled and Bohinj are packed with locals and tourists alike, but if you do want to guarantee a crowd-free trip, there are plenty of lesser-known corners of this compact country to explore. As the holiday resorts sizzle, alpine regions offer respite from the heat, making it the perfect time to climb Mount Triglav. But if you really want to get off the beaten track, head east to wander around the pretty towns of Maribor and Ptuj, or go wine tasting in the surrounding Styrian vineyards. Slovenia has gorgeous towns around every corner, from Idrija to Kamnika via Radovljica, Brežice and all the rest. 

3.  Edinburgh, Scotland

There is literally no better time to finally tick Edinburgh off your bucket list than in August, when the famous Edinburgh Fringe  (the biggest arts festival in the entire world) takes over the city. Be you a comedy, theatre, film or music person, the Fringe is a fun, fast, chaotic burst of all things silly and creative. There’s bars, street food, nights out and more, and we’ll be reviewing all the shows you need to know about, so keep your eyes peeled. 

Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh

4.  Iceland

There’s never a bad time to visit Iceland, right? August is the warmest month of the year here, but do remember that that means daily averages between 10 and 15 degrees celsius, so it is hardly sweltering. Still, balmy for Iceland, and visiting this gorgeous part of the world during the ubiquitously-bright summer months is an experience in itself. The grass is a little greener during August, and the warmer weather allows Iceland’s wonderful wildlife the chance to cavort through the fields. Yes, it is just like a fairytale. 

Discover the best things to do in Iceland

5.  East Africa

All kinds of adventures await in East Africa in August. The Great Migration is in full swing, meaning wildlife-spotting opportunities abound in Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, and it’s also one of the best times of year to track silverback gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. Beach bum? Into your snorkelling and scuba diving? The weather is warm and dry (and the waters brimming with marine life) on Pemba Island and Zanzibar.

6.  Seattle, USA

The Pacific Northwest has a reputation for being, how do we say this, a little bit drizzly. What is the best way to ensure good weather when visiting? Nothing is certain in this life, of course, but heading to Seattle and its surroundings in August is your best bet. The warm weather means outdoor activities aplenty, from city markets and food festivals to embracing nearby nature, while the ferries are also at their busiest during this time. 

Discover the best things to do in Seattle

7.  Sri Lanka

Beach lovers will have the pick of the sand in Sri Lanka in August, with good weather expected pretty much everywhere in the north, east and west. Lower rainfall means an altogether more relaxed time, and August also represents the tail-end of the low season in Sri Lanka, so fewer crowds. It isn’t unusual to see blue whales here at this time of year too, and who wouldn’t want to see the world’s largest animal doing its thing?

8.  Riga, Latvia

If you want an affordable European break in August, make it Riga. With its colourful old town and beautiful parks, it’s easy to while away the summer days here without breaking the bank. The warmest month of the year sees the capital come to life with open-air concerts, street performances, pop-up food stalls and firework shows.

9.  Buenos Aires

It’s winter in Buenos Aires, but the low season is the best time to live like a local, as residents often escape the city during the busier summer months. Culturally the capital is very much alive and kicking, with the two-week-long Tango Festival and World Cup showcasing the best of Argentina’s national dance with free performances, workshops and talks, as well as the pro-competition. 

Discover the best  things to do in Buenos Aires

10.  Bosnia and Herzegovina

A word of warning; it can get pretty darn hot in Bosnia and Herzegovina in August. That is more true in Herzegovina than Bosnia (Mostar tends to hover around the 40C mark), but refreshing salvation is at hand in the shape of the country’s fantastic mountains. Hiking in Bosnia and Herzegovina is still developing, but an enthusiastic group of organisations have opened up mountains like Prenj, Maglaj (the country’s highest) and Vlašić, not to mention the Olympic mountains around Sarajevo. Keep to the trails though, for your own safety.  

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