10 extraordinary experiences in Asia
Are you looking for extraordinary experiences in Asia? Do you love to travel off the beaten path and collect unique moments for the bucketlist? While Asia holds many experiences for tourists, some are extraordinary and invite to a deeper experience. On this list, you will get to know the 10 extraordinary and most moreable experiences for your bucketlist.
Number 1: hiking in the Himalayas, Nepal
The Himalayas in Nepal are probably the most impressive mountains in the world. With summits as high as 8.000 meters, Nepal calls the adventurers. Of course, you do not need to climb Mount Everest for an extraordinary experience. But still, hiking in Nepal is on the list. There are different routes and treks from which you can choose depending on your time and condition. Hike to Everest or Annapurna Base Camp or trek the Mardi Himal Trek.
Being close to the mountains and spending some days in remote villages and with no reception can be a lifechanging experience. Go for it, Nepal is calling!
Number 2: spend some time in a monastery and get a spiritual experience
This is both a very deep and spiritual experience. There are numerous opportunities for travellers to experience a monastery. Most popular is Thailand or India. On platforms such as Workaway, you can find a place which is available. Often your time in the monastery is an exchange for cleaning, cooking or teaching.
For some travellers, this is one of the best experiences in Asia as it allows you to get to know yourself, the culture and the religion of a country in the best way possible.
Number 3: visit the volcanos in East Java
While most tourists go for Bali when they travel to Indonesia, Java holds a true extraordinary experience. East Java is known for its impressive landscape and the volcanos. The two most famous mountains are the Mount Ijen and Mount Bromo. Both volcanos can be explored in a combined tour and you will be able to experience a totally different side of Indonesia. The local villages show you what Indonesia is really like. Traditional homestays, no luxury and very basic accommodation call for an adventure.
Mount Ijen is an active volcano and probably the big adventure in East Java. You start your hike around midnight to see both the blue lava at the bottom of the crater and the sunrise on top of the mountain. You will be wearing gas masks to protect yourself and you can book a guided tour to access the crater or even do it on your own.
Check out this guide for more information: A full guide to Mount Ijen – with or without a guide
Mount Bromo on the opposite cannot be climbed. It is rather the view from above which makes the volcano an extraordinary experience. Watching the sun rise over Mount Bromo is one of the most unique and special moments a traveller can get in Indonesia.
Number 4: go Hot-Air Ballooning over the temples in Myanmar
Hot-Air Ballooning – this might sound like an extraordinary experience itself, but have you ever done it with a view over the impressive temples of Myanmar? If you ever planned on going on a Hot-Air Ballooning experience, this is the best place to do so. In Bagan you will get the change to enjoy the view over 2.000 temples at one time – an experience you will most certainly never forget!
Number 5: spend some nights in the jungle and experience nature
Are you ready for a jungle experience? In Asia, you will find deep jungles in almost any country. Most popular for an adventure are Malaysia, Thailand or Indonesia. There are different opportunities to explore the jungle in the most unique way. While you can go on a day tour and hike through the jungle, you can as well book a guided tour through the remote nature. You will be staying in simple huts and experience life as close to nature as possible. Most travellers love the jungles of Borneo (Malaysia) or the center of Malaysia.
Yes, this experience really forces you to leave the comfort zone. But that´s what this guide is about.
Number 6: see Komodo Dragons in the wild
Have you ever heard of the Komodo Dragons? The special species of lizards is unique in the world and can only be found in the Komodo National Park in Indonesia. Seeing the Komodo Dragons in the wild is a one-of-a-kind experience. The Komodo National Park can only be accessed by boat and it therefore recommended to book a boat tour through the National Park. Sailing on a cruise through the impressive landscape is an extraordinary experience itself. Make sure to only enter the Komodo Island with a guide and a ranger who can assure your security and as well tell you about these special animals.
And don’t be scared: the Komodo Dragons are not dangerous if you behave properly.
Number 7: adventure time on a motorbike in the North of Vietnam
Freedom, freedom, freedom.
This experience seems to be the ideal definition of freedom. Renting your own motorbike, alone or with a guided tour, and driving through the green mountains in the North of Vietnam. There is barely any other way which allows you to connect with Vietnam this deep.
The famous Ha Giang Pass is known for its scenic route, leading you close to the boarder of China. You will come through local villages, endlessly green rice fields and meet other travellers on the way. The pass can be done in three to five days and allows you to experience the country off the beaten track. And is there anything better than being away from the mass tourism and see what a country is really like?
Number 8: stay in a traditional Japanese Homestay
Travelling Japan is a unique travel experience. The country attracts the visitors with a colorful culture and a breathtaking landscape. The Japanese way of life is a special experience and can be best lived if you stay in a traditional Homestay. You will see the daily life of the locals and get to know their traditions and beliefs better. The Japanese lifestyle is truly interesting and inspiring and it can teach you valuable lessons.
The best homestays and experiences can be found in the regions of Hokkaido or in the countryside.
Number 9: spend some time in an orphanage home
Voluntary work is an extraordinary experience no matter where you are. It helps you feel closer to humanity and get a better understanding of life and the conditions in foreign countries. Spending time in an orphanage home in Asia is unique and can be life-changing.
The following countries offer various opportunities for voluntary projects for travellers:
- Nepal (especially in the Kathmandu valley)
- India
- Myanmar
- Indonesia
You can choose the length of your stay according to your travel plans. From 1 week up to several months – anything is possible!
Number 10: hike the Mount Fuji – one of the best hiking experiences in Asia
Are you looking for an extraordinary hiking experience? The Mount Fuji in Japan is probably one of the most stunning hikes in all of Asia. Of course, it has to be on the list of the best experiences in Asia. It takes several days until you reach the top, but it is all worth it. The view from the top, the experience of staying in huts in the mountain and to see Japan from such a different point of view.
Dare to live – Asia is waiting!
These 10 extraordinary experience are only some great examples of what travelling Asia can look like if you dare to be different. If you dare to leave the comfort zone and get to know a country in a whole different way. Get ready for some experiences of a lifetime and some moments you´ll probably never forget!
For even more experiences for your bucket list check out The 10 most memorable experiences in South East Asia.
