6 exotic destinations to visit in Asia

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Exotic destinations to visit in Asia 23 May 2017

Exotic destinations to visit in Asia

The Hari Raya long weekend is just around the corner and this is the perfect time for you to relax and recharge without having to use up much of your annual leave.

Instead of heading off to the usual Asian cities like Bangkok and Hong Kong, why not go somewhere off the beaten track? Here are some exotic destinations in Asia that you can spend your 2017 long weekends.

Photo: Unsplash/pexels.com

1. Sapa, Vietnam 23 May 2017

1. Sapa, Vietnam

With picturesque views overlooking terraced rice fields coupled with breathtaking views of mountain ranges, Sapa is a place that you will want to keep returning to. Located Northwest of Vietnam, Sapa and its surrounding region has been dubbed Vietnam's "Tonkinese Alps".

Immerse yourself in this culturally-rich town and even interact with the hill tribes heading to the town's market daily to trade their produce. No visit to Sapa is complete without signing up for one of their trekking expeditions to the local villages or surrounding mountains. The lush greenery and views are bound to be extremely rewarding!

Photo: pixabay.com/thanhtungo

2. Varanasi, India 23 May 2017

2. Varanasi, India

Described as India's "most spiritual" city, Varanasi radiates charm and uniqueness that will attract even the most well-travelled globetrotter. This spiritual and colourful capital draws Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the River Ganges to wash away their sins or cremate their loved ones.

But be warned, Varanasi is not for the faint-hearted, with the most intimate of holy rituals constantly taking place in public. However, a visit to any of their 20,000 temples or a boat ride along the River Ganges will promise you an experience like no other!

Photo: commons.wikimedia.org

3. Guilin, China 23 May 2017

3. Guilin, China

Touted as one of the most beautiful places on the planet, Guilin is one of those places that you have to put on your bucket list. The lush paradise looks like something straight out of a fairytale and charming and idyllic scenery draws tourists from near and far yearly.

The beautiful views of the Li Rivera and Longsheng's Rice Terraces, coupled with its magnificent surrounding natural landscapes, makes Guilin a paradise for photographers. With flights connecting Guilin to several major cities, a visit to this fairytale place is an absolute must!

Photo: Flickr/Carlos Adampol Galindo

4. Bagan, Myanmar 23 May 2017

4. Bagan, Myanmar

The ancient city of Bagan was once considered one of the greatest cities of Myanmar and though much of it is in ruins today, it is still an impressive place to visit. Bagan is notable for its expansive geography that is home to sacred Buddhist temples.

And when you are there, a hot air balloon ride over the vast dust plains of Bagan is an absolute must. Providing you with a bird's eye view over this ancient city of Myanmar, you will definitely be astounded by the sheer beauty and splendour of the two thousand temples and pagodas that still stand tall in Bagan today.

Photo: pixabay.com/Peggy_Marco

5. Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka 23 May 2017

5. Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Labelled as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura was once the greatest monastic city of the ancient world. Today, this sprawling region boasts an impressive collection of archaeological and architectural wonders.

The vast scale of this ancient city might overwhelm even the most seasoned of travellers, both visually and culturally. With enormous dagobas, soaring temples and monuments, spend your long weekend wandering around and soaking up the rich historical culture that this city has to offer.

Photo: commons.wikimedia.org

6. Siem Reap, Cambodia 23 May 2017

6. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is home to the largest religious monument in the world - the Angkor Wat. With several flights flying direct to this city, you should definitely consider paying a visit to this amazing ancient wonder and its temples.

Besides temple-hopping, Siem Reap is also a fast-growing city, with many backpacker hostels and hip hotels. With a wide variety of dining options as well as great shopping and relaxing spas, Siem Reap is the ideal destination if you are looking for a fun yet tranquil holiday.

Photo: commons.wikimedia.org

This story first appeared on Shopback.


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