Hidden Destinations In Southeast Asia To Add To Your Travel List

In Southeast Asia (SEA) you will find ancient temples, secluded beaches, dense forests, peaceful monasteries and a generally warm climate. Most countries in the region are gradually easing their COVID-19 restrictions, which is the best time to explore the hidden gems of Southeast Asia, especially 2022.

Why a hidden place? Because many of us want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, seek out places not so explored by ourselves or with that special someone, and rest in the tranquility of outer space. Although there are off-road tracks all over the world, Southeast Asia has its own little world.

Cambodia

Rare sites, peaceful islands, intricate architecture and tourist cafes - Cambodia has it all. While places like Angkor Wat and Siem Reap make the most-visited lists, it's no surprise that tourists flock to other popular destinations.

However, it is always interesting to visit the secret places that the country has to offer. Banteay Chhmar and Koh Rong Island are two places that are not affected by heavy tourism and can be wonders for travelers who like to "get lost" in nature or in ancient ruins. The best time to travel to Cambodia is from November to February as summer is very hot here. But from June it started raining, which made it even more uncomfortable.

Banteay Chhmar

The site of an ancient temple built during the Angkorian period (802-1432) is located in Banteay Chhmar commune in Thma Puok district of Banteay Meanchey province, 65 km north of Sisophon. Angkor, Siem Reap is approximately 110 miles from the World Heritage Site.

The architecture is interesting and tells hundreds of stories. The official UNESCO website states: “Banteay Chhmar VII is one of the largest architectural organizations that Jayavarman has founded in a politically sensitive region in recent years. Its architecture, like that of other temples, shows signs of the urgency of construction and appears incomplete. There are clear signs that new architectural forms are being developed in the building area”.

He added: "The iconography shows Buddhist and Hindu beliefs, as well as the supremacy of kings and themes represented in other temples. In most cases, however, the depiction of individual deities and their proximity is the hallmark of Banteay Chhmara.

For those who love history and architecture, this ancient place is a must-see. You can easily get there from Sisophone by bus or taxi, but there are other options.

Koh Rong Islands

The trick when visiting this part of Cambodia is to visit the one who is often kidnapped while trying to reach others. Mixture? The fact is that there are two islands on Koh Rong. One of them is called Koh Rong Sanloem (Samloem) and can be reached from Sihanoukville while the other falls along the way but people don't see it. Therefore free from heavy tourism.

You can enjoy the golden sands on the west coast, but the east coast includes white beaches with turquoise waters. Set behind lush green forests and wildlife in their natural habitat, this is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to be alone or with you.

With the country booming with resorts and overwater villas, head that direction and soak up the pure blues and lush greens before more tourists arrive. Take your jail and other necessities and look for these hidden spots on the boat when heading to the celebrities.

Indonesia

Bali is more than Indonesia. If you want to learn about the country's history, art and culture, Old Jakarta is the most visited place in Indonesia with many churches, cities and museums. But if you are looking for tranquility and are a beach lover, you should go to Nusa or Kuta Lomboka. Although this part of the SEQ can be visited year-round, the months of May through September are relatively dry and easy to navigate.

Nusa Islands

Lembonga, Penida and Ceningan are the three islands that together make up the Nusa Islands. Penida is one of the four islands of Indonesia inhabited by a graceful creature called the manta ray. If you are a diver you can swim with these harmless creatures by contacting the local operator who will arrange the dive. Often referred to as "secret paradise," these islands will amaze you with their hidden lakes and serene natural pools as you explore deeper.

People often say that Nusa looks like Bali as it did more than 30 years ago. Nusa can be reached by ferry from Sanur and Bali and takes about 30 minutes. Nusa is the best place to relax as there are luxury villas and beautiful resorts to relax. Some of the places to see here are Mahana Point and Blue Lagoon.

Kuta Lombok

Not to be confused with Kuta as Bali is a completely different version of Balinese culture. There are several ways to get there, but the easiest way is by ferry or bus from Ubud (Bali). Lombok International Airport is also 20 minutes from this little wonder.

The town of Kuta and its beaches are actually not uncommon, as many avid tourists know. However, renting a bike and taking secret routes to interesting and less-explored locations is something visitors can do.

Plus, this surfing and fishing town will keep you busy and busy for a week or so.

Malaysia

Malaysia is a mix of cultures and a foodie's paradise. This makes it one of the best vacation spots, with December and April being the best times to visit. The rest of the year has a relatively hot and humid climate.

Although Penang is one of the most popular street foods in the world, there are numerous vendors who prepare a wide variety of chicken and seafood for you to sample at iPoh that have not been explored.

It doesn't matter if you're Malaysian food or well-known, very few people know about gems like Kapas and the Pahang Islands.

cage islands

If you want to meet one of the most interesting characters you will meet or meet in your life and be in one of the most beautiful places, Captain Kapash Longhouse is the place for you. The "Captain" will welcome you, cheer you up as a family member and send you away with good memories. People rarely visit this place. If you want to spend a few days relaxing in the tranquility of your surroundings, head straight to Kapasa.

You can reach Kapas Islands by boat from Marang Bridge. And if you are a sea life lover, this is the best place for you. Here you can dive, snorkel or go jungle trekking. Besides adventure activities, you can relax as you wish on this tranquil island.

pahang

Have you ever imagined a place that offers majestic mountain views, lush forests and clean beaches? If so, then Pahang, one of Southeast Asia's most beautiful hidden gems, is sure to ruin your chances. Despite being the country's third largest province and offering many ecotourism destinations, it is less frequented by tourists.

One of the places you can visit here is Taman Negara National Park. It is one of the oldest forests in the world and has interesting flora and fauna, including parasitic plants such as orchids and wolfflowers. For lovers of lush greenery, there are many nature reserves and forests, such as the Endau-Rompin National Park and the Krau wildlife sanctuary. Although it includes famous spots like Genting Highlands and Cameron Highlands, the forests and reserves are largely unspoilt and cater for those who love offbeat places. Pahanga can be reached from Kuala Lumpur by bus, taxi or car.

Thailand

Many consider Thailand to be one of the most visited destinations in Southeast Asia. Besides the famous floating markets, beaches, street shops, street food and nightlife, Southeast Asia has much more to offer. If you want to live outside of Thailand, Pattaya and Phuket then you need to explore the hidden gems here.

Like Nan, an ancient kingdom in the valleys bordering Thailand and Laos, Mae Hong Son and Koh Kood (Kut) are still some of the toughest unspoiled tourist spots.

Although historians can visit Nan, who arrived in the country in the 1930s, is difficult to get to (he has long been self-employed), so nature lovers can head to the other two.

The best time to travel to Thailand is November to April. During this time, the mercury is between 29 and 34 degrees. However, it can be visited all year round as temperatures vary in different parts of the country.

Mae Honq son

Warning for backpackers! Mae Hong Son was truly a devotee's paradise. Misty mountains, natural remains, hidden caves, hot springs and waterfalls welcome you from time to time, a place where you can immerse yourself in nature and immerse yourself in its radiant beauty. Don't forget to visit the Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge, an important part of the traditional ceremony as the monks (few people there now) use this bridge to receive offerings.

It can be reached by bus from Bangkok but it takes about 15 hours or by plane from Chiang Mai as this place has a small airport connected with flights from Chiang Mai.

Koh Kood

There's only one way across the island of pearly white sand and soothing waters. Near this place you can see some unique shops, restaurants and waterfalls. King Rama VI is said to have bathed in this waterfall.

Moments of rest can only be spent in abandoned monasteries and lush forests. Koh Kood is essential for those who are really serious about the 'accepted way'.

Depending on the time available, you can reach this beautiful island by plane, ferry or bus from Bangkok.

(Photo courtesy of Jason Cooper / Unsplash; Photo art: Stijn Dijkstra / Pexels)

This story first appeared on PrestigeOnline Malaysia

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