Planning for a backpacking trip but not sure where to go? We’ve compiled a list of the best budget-friendly backpacking destinations in Asia just for you!
Bangkok, Thailand
It’s easy to see why Bangkok is an extremely popular destination for backpackers. The rich culture, cuisine and vibrancy are just some of the endless reasons why people keep going back to there for their holidays. Plus if you’re a hardcore shopaholic, Bangkok is the place to be.
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Trendy and affordable, Bangkok’s shopping scene is one of the best in the world. While you’re there, be sure to check out the famous Platinum Mall, MBK and Chatuchak Market. There are also many malls near train stations such as Union Mall, Terminal 21, CentralWorld and Siam Paragon that are worth a visit. Be sure to leave some extra space in your backpack before you go because it will be filled to the brim with all your buys.
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Aside from shopping, do pay a visit to the magnificent Grand Palace in the heart of the city and temples such as the famed Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun.
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Of course, what is a trip to Bangkok without its food? Everything on the local menu is delicious and delectable, the three must-have foods while you’re there would have to be Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice and Tom Yummm. Be adventurous and try the street food as well, we recommend Fried Banana with Sesame, Fried Chicken Wing and even the Fried Insects if you’re daring enough. You’d be surprise at how delicious and cheap they can be!
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Lombok, Indonesia
While throngs of tourist flock to Bali every year, numerous places in underrated Lombok remain untouched. This means you can have fun without having to worry about crowds and noise. Enjoy pristine white beaches, stately mountains and limpid waters in Lombok, or head out to the Gili Islands – 20 minutes away by boat – a haven for beach enthusiasts.
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Head to Senggigi Beach for a good surf or Mount Rinjani for a panoramic view overlooking a peaceful, undisturbed lake.
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Gili Islands are unique as they have absolutely no motorised transport on the island, making it a sanctuary for those seeking to get away from city life. The Gili Meno Bird Park houses exotic species of birds while you can see baby turtles swimming in their pools or get up close with these adorable creatures at the Turtle Sanctuary.
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Hanoi, Vietnam
Fall in love with Vietnam’s historic traditions and breathtaking natural attractions. Backpackers love Hanoi because you can walk to many of the main attractions and save on a ton on transportation.
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Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Hanoi’s most revered and visited site, is an immensely historical building. It is only open in the mornings, so do arrive early as the queues tend to get very long. Other attractions include Van Mieu (Temple of Literature) and Old Quarter for your dose of Vietnamese history. The scenic Hoan Kiem Lake is also a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
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Aside from a mandatory piping hot bowl of Pho, do get a taste of Bun Cha (grilled pork and noodle) and Cha ca La Vong (grilled fish with herbs and rice vermicelli).
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If your budget allows for it, why not take a trip out to Ha Long Bay? Even though a bus trip can take up to 4-5 hours, it’s well worth the gorgeous views of the bay. Jump aboard a junk boat and sail on the emerald green waters to explore hidden beaches and marvel at the towering limestone islands.
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Bandung, Indonesia
Known for its volcanic peaks and tea plantations, Bandung remains one of the most underrated places to visit in Indonesia. If you’re suffering in the heat of Singapore’s scorching weather, you’ll be pleased to know Bandung’s city temperature is much cooler all year round, even cooler than most of the cities in Indonesia.
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Kawah Putih, meaning ‘white crater’, is probably unlike any other natural attraction you’ve seen. The lake waters’ colours range from milk white to green due to the high sulfur content in the lake while the stunning forested backdrop make for good photo-ops. Tangkuban Perahu is also another volcano to visit with its boiling mud and hot water springs. If you’re hungry, you can even buy an egg cooked on the hot surface right there and then.
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Shop till you drop at the popular factory outlets with their chic clothing and cheap buys. Alternatively, check out the strawberry farms and taste the fruit of your labour (literally)!
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Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Nestled south of Taipei is the flourishing city of Kaohsiung, a harmonious blend of spectacular urban and natural sights. As Taiwan’s largest port, Kaohsiung is a delightful metropolis boasting modern marvels, outlying forests and even romantic beaches.
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Catch the gorgeous sunset over the sweeping sea views of the habour over at the Old British Consulate, or marvel at Chinese architecture over at the Martyr’s Shine. Alternatively, get away from the commotion of the city and recluse into the mountains at the Yuanheng Temple, a Buddhist monastery that offers peace and quiet for any weary travellers.
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Don’t miss Kaohsiung’s most romantic destination – the Love River, lined with cozy cafes and friendly parks. Even if you’re single, the Lover River is great for quiet and peaceful walks. Who knows, you may even find your special someone along the stretch!
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Five minutes from Kaohsiung lies Cijin Island, undoubtedly the best place for seafood in the whole of Kaohsiung. Spend a whole day cycling around and visiting attractions like the Tianhou Temple and Cihou, the Cijin Seashore Park and soaking in the great atmosphere. End the day with a hearty seafood meal and feast away on fresh prawns, scallops and crabs to your heart’s content.
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Palawan, Philippines
Boasting the country’s best beaches, Palawan is a paradise for nature lovers. Brimming with colourful flora and fauna, Palawan offers rural tranquility and rustic peace in its sparsely populated region. Yes, the water is that blue. #nofilter
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Over in El Nido the waters and cliffs are so beautiful; no matter how bad your photography skills are, the photo will always come out insta-worthy. It is recommended that you take a plane from Manila to the main city, Puerto Princesa, before taking a bus up to El Nido. The trip is a rather arduous one, but the view is guaranteed to be absolutely stunning. The pictures don’t lie.
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Be sure to catch the sunset at Corong-Corong as you appreciate the blazing orange and yellow hues over the calm waters. Check out fish and other marine life darting around colourful corals on a boat tour, or if you’re more adventurous, dive into deeper waters and find Hawks-bill turtles.
Image Credit: Palawan Divers
Areas to explore include the Twin Beach, where you’ll be greeted by friendly locals and white, sandy shores and the hidden Marimegmeg Beach that’s absolutely perfect for swimming. Trek the Makinit Hot Springs and you’ll see the Nagkalit-kalit Falls, a rushing waterfall pool ideal to take a dip in on a hot summer’s day. Water you waiting for? Palawan beckons.
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Any other destinations to recommend? Let us know by commenting below! Check out our recommended budget-friendly accommodations for these destinations here!
