7 Southeast Asian Destinations That Are Often Overlooked

Southeast Asia is home to many favorite holiday destinations. It’s a paradise for adventure seekers and those who like to experience a different culture.

While more popular destinations like the Angkor Wat in Cambodia welcome millions of tourists each year, there are still off-the-beaten-track places in Southeast Asia that are equally breathtaking but are often overlooked. Here are seven (7) underrated spots in Southeast Asia you might want to include in your bucket list.

#1. Baliem Valley, West Papua, Indonesia

If you want a break from modernization, hike to remote Indonesian villages and meet the Dani tribes. Not only will you get to see the beauty of Baliem Valley, but also have the opportunity to hangout with local tribes and experience their way of living. The Baliem Valley festival, an annual gathering of all local tribes in the area, happens in August. If you simply want to trek the valley, March through September would be an ideal time to visit.

#2. Bai Tu Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay may be undeniably gorgeous but mass tourism can interfere with your relaxing trip. If you still want to see giant limestones in calm oceans without having to deal with crowds, Bai Tu Long Bay is a must-see and visit. You can go kayaking, sunset viewing and explore floating villages in the area.

#3. Mt. Kyaiktiyo, Myanmar

Mt. Kyaiktiyo is loved by travelers because of the gold granite boulder perched at the summit, which makes for a gorgeous scenery. Legend has it that a hair from Buddha is supporting the golden rock, keeping it from falling 1,100 to the ground. The best time to visit the area is at sunset, where you’ll see the rock shining against the pink light.

4# Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam

Forget Ha Long Bay and roaming the busy streets of Hanoi. Ha Giang Loop, located in the northernmost province of the country, is a place you shouldn’t miss, especially if going on an epic adventure is on your list of things to do. Ha Giang is considered as the “last frontier for adventurous travelers.” You can explore Ha Giang by motorbike and be in awe of the breathtaking scenery when you drive along Ma Pi Leng Pass. Tourists have yet to take notice of this place but slowly, the place is starting to gain popularity.

#5. Kuang Si Waterfall, Laos

This three-tiered waterfall can be found deep in the jungle of Laos, specifically south of Luang Prabang. Discover two main spots at Kuang Si — the main waterfall and the secret waterfall. The main waterfall is Kuang Si’s most gorgeous waterfall and it’s something you can’t miss.

Brave the slippery train and wobbly bridges to get to the secret waterfall. It’s an epic adventure you won’t forget and it will be all worth it.

#6. Pulau Besar, Malaysia

If you can’t afford to go to the Maldives, Pulau Besar in Malaysia could be the next best option. Anyone who visits the island agrees that it is a true paradise. If a relaxing beach holiday away from crowds is what you need, Pulau Besar is a great Southeast Asian destination to pick.

#7. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Raja Ampat is considered as the most beautiful tropical archipelago in Southeast Asia. It comprises 1,500 islands and islets that appeal to travelers who want to have a fascinating island experience. The alluring landscape is mostly untouched, which makes you fall in love with the place even more. Not only that, Raja Ampat happens to be one of the world’s best diving spots.