8 Best Places to See in Southeast Asia Before You Die

Considering the vast area, the best places to see in Southeast Asia before you die will surely exceed eight places, but if you are a first timer in Southeast Asia, this list will surely light that fire to book a flight and go. With so many places to visit in Indonesia before you die, as well as Vietnam, Thailand, and The Philippines, it’s impossible to eliminate this area from your life travels. The culture is rich and dates back to hundreds of years ago. The views are nothing short of remarkable and magnificent.

The beaches will entice even the fussiest beach bum, and the adventure-seeker will have no troubles feeling right at home with some the choices on this list. Trekking, volcanoes, boat rides, and motorbiking around towns will cure your thirst for excitement.

Considering all the fantastic places you can enjoy while visiting this region, you will be surprised that your money will go further than you would think. This region is known for being budget-friendly, so feel free to stay a bit longer than you anticipated. The countries on this list all have amazing towns and sites to enjoy, so don’t think this is it. We have one top destination from only some of the countries in Southeast Asia, let this list start off your journey now, so you have more time to see the rest of these great countries. Here are some of the best places to see in Southeast Asia before you die.

 

8. Bali, Indonesia

One of the most popular and desired islands to take a vacation in the world. Bali’s volcanic landscapes with miles of beaches and cultural points of interest around every corner will captivate any visitor. Surfers, honeymooners, backpackers, divers and luxury-seekers can all find solace on this tiny spec of heaven in Asia.

 

7. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Here’s the big cultural hub of Thailand. Just teeming with hundreds of temples on every street and markets galore is this north Thailand beauty. The highly revered Doi Suthep rises high on the nearby mountain and is a must see.

 

6. Penang, Malaysia

Are you hungry after all that traveling? Penang is the place to refuel. Unlike other spots, Penang has a wealthy array of delicious eats. Chinese, Malay, Thai, and Indian food can be had here, and it’s affordable too. When you’re not stuffing your face, go take a hike at the national park or check our Georgetown for a splash of color and culture.

 

5. Siem Reap, Cambodia

How about seeing temples that are over 900 years old? A whole complex of incredible temple ruins are strewn across hundreds of acres just outside this main city. Here is where you are humbled by the site of the magical temples that were furiously built many years ago and are still somewhat standing today. Some areas are being taken back by nature, but it only adds to the character.

 

4. Bagan, Myanmar

Magical sunsets behind majestic mountains with the pinnacles of the ancient temples dotted along the landscape before you. That’s the view you will get in Bagan, but don’t take my word for it, you’ll just need to see it for yourself! Cultural, history and amazing views are what Bagan holds.

 

3. Halong Bay, Vietnam

Karst rocks majestically burst out from the sea providing onlookers with a beautiful and perplexing view of the island studded Halong Bay. Taking a boat ride through these amazing rock formations is mind blowing and surely one of the best places to see in Southeast Asia before you die.

 

2. Bromo- Tengger-Semeru National Park, Java, Indonesia

So we saw a sunset in Bagan, now it’s time to see the sunrise, and no other place perfectly shows the sunrise than Bromo- Tengger-Semeru National Park. You will have multiple viewpoints to see Bromo and the surrounding volcanoes being drenched by the sunlight, and then you will make your way to see the smoking volcano up front and center. It’s quite incredible!

 

1. Ifugao Rice Terraces, Philippines

The charming town of Banaue will be enticing to those wanting to chill out in the mountains, but taking an exploration to the nearby Batad to see the Ifugao Rice Terraces is a must. It’s absolutely spectacular to see the greenery flanking the mountainsides and the locals working with the rice. The views are surreal and stunning to say the least.

Which country entices you more? What other places to see in Southeast Asia before you die do you think should be on the list?