8 experiences for an Asia Travel Bucket List
The continent is notorious for being cheap to travel and there is something for everyone in this Asia travel bucket list. In no particular order, after 5 months of extensive travel around the continent, these are the highlights that did not break the bank.
1. Cooking Class
Firstly, backpackers ‘love a good cooking class in Asia‘. However, you will have the opportunity to do one in every country you visit, so choose wisely. This activity was great for several reasons but the reason why I’d recommend it so much, is because you can learn from locals, eat delicious food and meet other travellers.
My experience was in Chiang Mai in Thailand with the Smile Organic Farm Cooking School. I chose to do my cooking class here because I had always wondered how to make a Pad Thai and a green curry… The class started with a visit to a fresh market to choose ingredients, followed by picking herbs in their garden. After we had hands on cooking and a lesson followed by everyone eating their creations together. It was superb.
2. Bagan Temples, Myanmar
So you’ve seen all the pretty pictures of the hot air balloons above Bagan and you’re wondering how you can get involved. Well, I can confirm that the hot air balloon ride itself will cost you a small fortune, so I have a more budget friendly idea. But if you’re dying to rise above the clouds… then check out number 8.
Hostels, hotels (wherever you stay in Bagan) will offer renting of a scooter or an e-bike for a cheap price to get around. I rented an e-bike and found that this was the best way to adventure but beware of the battery (it doesn’t last all day).
The bike gives you the freedom of discovering the many temples. I can’t stress enough how great this experience is. There are many hidden temples with no people at all; it’s just you, your bike and your peace.
Tip: download the app: Maps.me, many backpackers have left pins in their favourite temples. This is especially useful for sunrise and sunset (where to go without the crowds). Oh, and it will help you not get lost! Also for other apps you should download click here.
3. Taj Mahal in Agra, India
If you’ve made it to India, you’ve probably got the Taj Mahal on your list. I know that a lot of people say ‘It’s so overrated’ but I wholeheartedly disagree. These are most likely the ‘I’m going off the beaten track kind of traveller’. Each to their own (of course) but from the moment you step through the archways and see the sight of this magnificent building, you’ll understand. The love story that surrounds the Taj Mahal is one like no other and you should have it on your bucket list. The day I visited the Taj was my most expensive day in India though (but that’s not saying much).
I recommend going for sunrise to beat the crowds. Also it’s a little strange but there is also a ‘Mini Taj’ and forts nearby if you want to explore further.
4. An Indian Festival
India is a country rich in festivals that are scattered throughout the year. The most popular being Holi and Diwali, which showcase just how rich the Indian culture is.
Although I did not get to experience these, my Indian trip fell when the Durga Puja Festival brightened Kolkata’s streets. This annual festival happens at the end of October and it is about paying homage to Durga, the Hindu goddess.
It can be quite difficult to get around (we walked mostly) this experience really feels like you’re travelling. I found just walking the streets and enjoying the celebration was a truly magical experience. I was welcomed into communities, given free chai tea and encouraged to take part in the music and light displays. You can’t beat this feeling.
5. The Lantern Festival, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Have you ever watched the Disney movie ‘Tangled’? If you have- you’ll know the scene where Rapunzel sees the golden lanterns light up the sky?
Well in November in Chiang Mai you can be in your own Disney movie. Get a group of friends, buy a ridiculously cheap lantern, write a message and light it into the sky at the Yi Peng Lantern Festival.
If you’re an environmentalist, you might want to sit this one out though, we all know the horror stories of lanterns falling on animals and I did witness a few lanterns hit and set fire to the trees nearby. Overall, it is a unique experience but there are A LOT of people.
Tip: book your hostel early for the festival, as they sell out!
6. Snorkelling with turtles, Gili Islands, Indonesia
If you’ve dreamed of snorkelling and spotting turtles, then this really is the place for you. You have two options, the first being the more budget friendly. You can hire a mask and snorkel and head out straight from the beach. However, from personal experience you have much less chance of seeing a turtle this way.
My recommendation is to go out on a boat. It’s not expensive and usually the driver of the boat is AMAZING at spotting the turtles. So you’re almost guaranteed to see one. On my short trip, I saw 4 turtles and they were as magnificent as you can imagine. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Tip: Have you seen the Instagram influences posting a picture with the underwater statues? It’s so easy to combine these two experiences and make the most out of your $.
7. Trekking to Inle Lake, Myanmar
Undoubtedly, the trekking adventure you can go on from Kalaw to Inle Lake, is an absolute steal. It’s one of the cheapest experiences in Asia. For example, it included accommodation, food, transport, a boat ride over the lake AND your luggage is transported to your accommodation. It really does sound too good to be true.
What’s great is that you have the option to do one or two nights, in small (ish) groups. You meet local people on the way; you can have an outside shower and sleep in a traditional Myanmar village. Remember in comparison to other Asian countries, Myanmar is (relatively) new to tourism and you can feel this energy. You can book this experience in advance, or you can just turn up like we did. It’s a surreal experience and again, a great place to meet other people.
Tip: this is also where I had the cheapest wine tasting experience of my life. I love wine and it was truly magical.
8. A Hot Air Balloon Ride, Vang Vieng, Laos
Finally, you’re probably wondering, why a hot air balloon ride is included on an Asia travel bucket list for budget travellers. I would have been cautious about this too… but did you know that Laos is the cheapest place to go on a hot air balloon in the world? Yes, the world.
It might not be the Bagan Temples, but I can vouch for this experience. The scenery is spectacular and I can confirm that the excitement of a hot air balloon ride is something that still lives with me today. I got the bug!
You just can’t find these experiences anywhere else in the world.
Photo Credit: Averagelives.com
Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.