The New Year has finally come, and to avid Pinoy travelers this means another year to fill with new adventures and excitement!
If you’re still working on your to-visit list for 2025, we’re here to give you some good ideas, especially if you’re looking to visit less touristy places that can compete against mainstream destinations.
From the northern mountains of India to the pristine beaches of Indonesia, here are some of the most underrated Asian gems that definitely deserve a spot on your travel bucket list:
1. Shimla, India
This city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas is a charming hill station renowned for its colonial architecture, scenic vistas, and cool mountain climate. While it is a popular destination among locals, it only sees a few foreign visitors annually. For the perfect retreat, book a homestay or a cozy B&B as your accommodation during your visit, and wake up to alluring views of the mountains of Northern India. For souvenirs, head on over to Lakkar Bazaar for handcrafted wooden toys and crafts.
Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather or December to February for snow lovers (Yes, Shimla gets its fair share of snow dusting in winter!)
Top Things To Do: Stroll along the Mall Road, visit the Jakhoo Temple, and ride the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla Railway.
2. Kampot, Cambodia
A picturesque riverside town, Kampot is best known for its laid-back vibe and lush surrounding landscapes. From pepper plantations and salt farms to serene riverside resorts, this southern Cambodian city offers a unique and tranquil experience for visitors.
Best Time to Visit: November to April during the dry season
Top Activities: Explore Bokor National Park, take a sunset cruise on the Kampot River, and tour the famed pepper farms.
3. Skardu, Pakistan
Skardu is a breathtaking destination tucked away in northern Pakistan that serves as a gateway to the majestic Karakoram mountain range. With its glaciers, mirror-like lakes, and towering peaks, Skardu is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Top Activities: Visit Shangrila Resort, hike to Kachura Lake, and marvel at the majestic Deosai Plains.
4. Dalat, Vietnam
Destinations like Hanoi, Hoi An, Sapa, and Da Nang are enjoying the spotlight at the moment. But Vietnam is teeming with must-visit sites, and that includes Dalat. Often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring,” it enchants visitors with its mild to cool climate, verdant pine forests, and unique colonial charm. It’s an idyllic escape for those looking to unwind in a serene and picturesque setting.
Best Time to Visit: December to March for dry and pleasant weather
Top Activities: Wander through the Crazy House, explore the Flower Park, and take a boat ride on Tuyen Lam Lake.
5. Nikko, Japan
Almost everyone seems to be flying to Japan these days, so if you want to avoid the overcrowded tourist favorites like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, give the other prefectures a visit. Nikko—a historical treasure trove less than two hours away from Tokyo on the Shinkansen—is famed for its ornate shrines, cascading waterfalls, and proximity to national parks. This small city offers both cultural heritage and natural beauty—minus the crowds.
Best Time to Visit: October to November for autumn foliage or April for cherry blossoms
Top Activities: Visit Toshogu Shrine, hike in Nikko National Park, and relax in the Kinugawa Onsen hot springs.
6. Luang Prabang, Laos
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang is a cultural and spiritual hub known for its ornate golden temples, cascading waterfalls, and the timeless charm of traditional Lao life. This tranquil city is a favorite among travelers seeking cultural immersion.
Best Time to Visit: November to February during the cool season
Top Activities: Watch the alms-giving ceremony, visit Kuang Si Falls, and explore the Royal Palace Museum.
7. Suzhou, China
Dubbed the “Venice of the East,” Suzhou’s biggest draws are its classical gardens, vibrant canals, and ancient charm that interestingly blends with China’s modern landscape. Situated in the west of Shanghai, it enjoys some of the bustle of a big city, with a warmer vibe.
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Top Activities: Wander through the Humble Administrator’s Garden, take a canal cruise, and explore the ancient Pingjiang Road.
8. Galle, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, in itself, is an underrated destination, but the city of Galle is especially under the radar of most travelers. This coastal gem flaunts a UNESCO-listed fort, cobblestone streets, and a lively local culture that make it a delightful destination for history buffs and beach lovers.
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Top Activities: Walk along the Galle Fort walls, relax on Unawatuna Beach, and visit the Maritime Archaeology Museum.
9. Tainan, Taiwan
Taiwan is, perhaps, one of the easiest destinations to visit for Pinoys. Not only is it just a two-hour flight away from Metro Manila, it’s also a country Filipinos can enter visa-free! If you’ve already visited Taipei and Taichung, how about checking out Tainan? As Taiwan’s oldest city and street food capital, it is dotted with historical landmarks and lined with street markets, where you can try various mouthwatering local delicacies.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Top Activities: Explore the Chihkan Tower, savor traditional dishes at the night markets, and visit the Anping Tree House.
10. Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a city of contrasts that combines Soviet-era architecture with rich Islamic heritage. Its unique cultural tapestry makes it a fascinating destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to November
Top Activities: Visit the Khast-Imam Complex, explore Chorsu Bazaar, and ride the art-filled Tashkent Metro.
11. Isfahan, Iran
Isfahan, often described as “Half of the World,” is another top destination for lovers of architecture and design. The city itself is a masterpiece of Persian architecture and artistry, with its majestic mosques, sparkling bazaars, and stunning bridges that offer a glimpse into Iran’s rich cultural heritage.
Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November
Top Activities: Admire Naqsh-e Jahan Square, walk across Si-o-se-pol Bridge, and visit the Shah Mosque.
12. Pokhara, Nepal
Pokhara, a tranquil lakeside city in Nepal, is a gateway to the Annapurna mountain range. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, it’s certainly a paradise for trekkers and those seeking relaxation.
Best Time to Visit: October to December or March to May
Top Activities: Go paragliding over Phewa Lake, trek the Annapurna Circuit, and visit Davis Falls.
13. Busan, South Korea
Seoul and Jeju Island are South Korea’s most-visited destinations, but hey, Busan deserves some love, too! South Korea’s vibrant port city is an underrated destination with beautiful beaches, cultural landmarks, and a thriving art scene. It perfectly blends South Korea’s modern charm and traditional heritage in an unhurried setting.
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Top Activities: Relax on Haeundae Beach, visit Gamcheon Culture Village, and hike in Geumjeongsan. If you are visiting in October, go celebrity-spotting as top stars from all over the world walk the red carpet at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival.
14. Ipoh, Malaysia
Ipoh is known as one of the best places in the world to retire—and for good reason! Among Malaysia’s best-kept secrets, it has quaint colonial-era buildings, jaw-dropping limestone caves, and delectable cuisine, making it a paradise for history junkies and foodies.
Best Time to Visit: March to September
Top Activities: Explore Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, stroll through Concubine Lane, and savor white coffee.
15. Tbilisi, Georgia
Enjoying the best of both worlds—that is Asia and Europe—Georgia’s capital is the result of a complex past. It is known for its unique architecture influenced by its periods under Persian and Russian rule.
Best Time to Visit: May to June or September to October
Top Activities: Stroll through the old town, take a sulfur bath, and ride the cable car to Narikala Fortress.
16. Mae Hong Son, Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for travelers around the world, but not every visitor gets to say that they’ve been to Mae Hong Son. This tranquil town in northern Thailand is surrounded by misty mountains and diverse ethnic minority villages. For intrepid travelers who love some quiet time away from home, this remote location makes for an excellent choice.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Top Activities: Visit the Pai Canyon, explore the Tham Pla Fish Cave, and take a hot air balloon ride.
17. Hpa-An, Myanmar
Hpa-An is a postcard-perfect town in Myanmar that will make you fall in love with its limestone mountains, calm rivers, enchanting caves, and intriguing temples. This off-the-beaten-path destination offers natural beauty and cultural intrigue in abundance.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Top Activities: Visit the Saddan Cave, hike Mount Zwegabin, and explore the area around Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda.
18. Bhutan
Bhutan is one of the most difficult places to visit. Aside from the fact that it’s a pretty expensive destination, arranging for a tour can also be a tedious process, but if you’re in it for the adventure, you’ll realize that it’s worth all the hard work and planning! Why? Bhutan is beyond stunning and the people are on another level of warm and hospitable.
Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November
Top Activities: Visit the Tashichho Dzong, hike to Buddha Dordenma, and explore the local markets.
19. Aktau, Kazakhstan
You’ve probably heard about Almaty and Astana—two of Kazakhstan’s biggest cities that also draw the most number of tourists. But have you heard of Aktau? This city by the Caspian Sea is known for its stark desert landscapes, unique geological formations, and Soviet-era architecture.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
Top Activities: Explore the underground mosques, visit the Caspian Sea coastline, and hike in the Ustyurt Plateau.
20. Lombok, Indonesia
Lombok, usually overshadowed by Bali, is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, hidden waterfalls, and an active volcano, the second-highest volcano in Indonesia, Mount Rinjani. Its unspoiled beauty will make it an instant favorite among nature lovers and adventurers.
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Top Activities: Trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani, snorkel in the Gili Islands, and relax on Selong Belanak Beach.
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*Featured image by Jimmy Moon on Unsplash
