Bucket List Experiences for Any Kind of Traveler in Asia

Some people picture themselves soaking up the sun along a tropical beach, while others dream of conquering the soaring peaks of the Himalayas. Regardless of what kind of traveler you are, plenty of bucket list experiences await you in Asia! To help you craft the perfect must-do list for your travel style, we've created this guide to the most incredible Asian adventures. There's a little something for everyone here, from activities for thrill-seekers and animal lovers to unmissable experiences for foodies and culture buffs.

Stroll Along the Great Wall of China

Few landmarks on the planet are more iconic than the Great Wall of China, so it's only right to kick off this list with this 21,000-km-long masterpiece. It may be one of the more jam-packed spots on this list, but it's worth braving the crowds for! The Great Wall stretches from Jiayuguan in the west to the Shanhaiguan district in the east and is conveniently located around two hours from Beijing. As such, China's capital is the best place to start your journey.

Catch the Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Cambodia's Angkor Wat is the largest religious structure in the world, and it's at its most remarkable at dawn. Watching the sun come up behind the 900-year-old Hindu-Buddhist temples is a true pinch-me moment. Although most of the photos online make it seem like Angkor Wat is one temple, in reality, it's made up of over 70 structures. The complex is huge, so it's easiest to get around by taxi, tuk-tuk, or bike after you've watched the sunrise at the main temple.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Over the Ancient City of Bagan

Like Angkor Wat, the best time to see the ruins of Myanmar's ancient city of Bagan is as the sun is rising. However, for the full experience, you can cruise above the terracotta-colored temples and pagodas from the skies in a hot air balloon. Of course, Bagan is a sight to behold no matter how you explore it, but there's something so magical about seeing it from above before the sun comes up. 

Cruise Along Halong Bay

Possibly Vietnam's most recognizable natural wonder, Halong Bay is a must for any trip to the Southeast Asian nation. This striking bay is home to more than 1,500 rainforest-covered islands made from limestone rock, which lie amongst the sparkling emerald waters. The most popular way to explore the beauty of Halong Bay is by cruise. These boat trips can range from budget-friendly day-long excursions to high-end multi-day voyages. 

Hike Through the Himalayas in Nepal

If you're more into active vacations rather than relaxing getaways, a visit to Nepal will be right up your alley. Though the Himalayas encompass parts of China, India, and Bhutan, Nepal is the go-to destination for hiking trips. Some might have their sights set on famous trekking routes like Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit, but there are dozens of trails to choose from. Don't overlook underrated alternatives like the Langtang Trek or the Ghandruk Loop.

Go Island-Hopping in the Philippines

There are countless island-hopping spots in Asia, but nowhere has more tropical paradises to its name than the Philippines. Considering the Philippines consists of almost 8,000 islands, this may not come as much of a surprise. No trip to the Philippines is complete without an island-hopping expedition, but choosing which one to do is no easy task!Some of the best destinations for these tours include El Nido, Coron, Bohol, and Boracay.

Spot Orangutans in Malaysian Borneo

Catch a glimpse of orangutans in their natural habitat on the island of Borneo. A mecca for wildlife, the Malaysian section of Borneo's biggest draw is its population of majestic orangutans. These fascinating primates are the island's best-known residents, but you're also likely to see proboscis monkeys, sun bears, and pygmy elephants. While you're here, you'll spend your days embarking on river safaris and 4X4 outings through lush rainforests and swamplands.

Marvel at the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is the second wonder of the world to make its way on this list and is a non-negotiable stop on any Indian adventure. Built by the former emperor Shah Jahan in honor of this wife, this white marble work of art is even more magnificent in person. India has a slew of must-see landmarks, but none quite as acclaimed as the Taj Mahal. Visiting at sunrise is becoming increasingly popular, but arriving late in the afternoon before closing is ideal if you'd prefer to avoid the crowds. No matter when you arrive, you're sure to be blown away by the mausoleum's sheer size and intricate structure.

Discover Your Spirituality in Bali

In recent years, the Indonesian island of Bali has become one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the world. Its sun-drenched beaches, dense rainforests, warm locals, and rich culture attract millions of visitors annually, many of whom also come to tap into their spirituality. Balinese people are deeply spiritual. Their healing rituals, holistic practices, and purification traditions have transformed the island into a hotspot for wellness-based trips like yoga retreats and spa breaks.

Sample the Street Food in Thailand

Plenty of Asian countries have a thriving street food scene, but Thailand might just be the cream of the crop. As the birthplace of tom yum soup, pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and papaya salad, it's easy to see why the Land of Smiles is a haven for culinary enthusiasts. Street food is a way of life in Thailand, and the fare that local chefs whip up in pint-sized stalls is often much more flavorful than what you'll find in a restaurant!

Add These Unforgettable Travel Experiences to Your Asia Bucket List

Get ready to check out some of the world's most legendary wonders and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime moments next time you're in Asia.  Some spots undoubtedly pop up on everyone's list, but it's important to prioritize the experiences that suit your preferences and interests before putting your plans in place.