5 Unknown Asia Locations That Deserve Your Attention

Travelers' lingering sense of wanderlust has never been more intense than it is right now when borders reopen and the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel finally emerges from the long months of limitations, boredom, and tiredness. The globe is starting to return to some semblance of normality, albeit not in the same way it did in the past, so all of the world's anxious tourists will likely head back to the crowded tourist spots from the past that were previously well-traveled.

However, if the thought of fully booked tours, jam-packed hiking trails, and crowds of people swarming to what could be stunning beaches doesn't tickle one's fancy, it's time to think about veering away from the popular tourist routes and heading towards those less traveled by the masses. Many of these undiscovered gems are tucked away in and around the vast continent known as Asia.

Kerala, India

Beautiful beaches are probably not the first thing that spring to mind when thinking of India. But some of the country's most stunning shorelines will pleasantly surprise tourists to Kerala. Additionally, Kerala is a fantastic city in and of itself, with lots of options for river cruising and pristine natural areas like the vast Periyar National Park, which is home to an incredible variety of species. The city serves as a base for exploring the adjacent Wayanad region, which is home to magnificent mountains and rolling trekking slopes. Kerala offers visitors more than just beautiful scenery and beaches; it also encourages them to learn about its fascinating culture and past.

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Although Dhaka is a tremendously populated and active city, a visit is nevertheless worthwhile. Why? For the most adventurous tourists, the bustling metropolis offers a variety of cultural and historic treasures. The Lalbagh Fort, which dates back hundreds of years and was constructed by the son of a Mughal emperor, is one of the must-see attractions. Another is Dhaka's grand and imposing Ahsan Manzil Museum, which focuses on the "Nawabs," or provincial governors of the nation. Kawran Bazar, which is believed to be Dhaka's largest wholesale market, should be at the top of the list for shoppers. Dhaka is also great for some retail therapy.

Changsha, China

Hunan Province's capital, Changsha, is enormous and overflowing with inhabitants. Although Mao Zedong, one of China's most revered political icons, was born in this city, it is currently one of the most quickly modernizing metropolises in the country. The food is, of course, another good incentive to visit Changsha and the surrounding areas. One of the Eight Great Traditions of Chinese Cuisine, Hunan cuisine features an alluring fusion of hot, spicy flavors, vibrant colors, and delectably fresh fragrances.

Clark, Philippines

The bulk of visitors to the Philippines focus solely on its more well-known regions, such as Manila, Cebu, and Bohol, which are incomparably gorgeous and unquestionably affordable. However, Clark is a hidden, lesser-known gem to add to one's trip to the Philippines; it makes for a great weekend getaway thanks to its superb location close to the national capital. A paradise for bargain hunters, Clark is home to a huge variety of international eateries and cafés as well as a ton of duty-free retailers. But others who have their feet firmly planted in the real world will definitely appreciate the historic sensation of nagging nostalgia when they stroll through Clark's spectacular historic landmarks, a collection that includes abandoned military structures, old-world theaters, former parade grounds, and more.

Appi, Japan

Forget about Kyoto's charming ancient cultural district and Tokyo's imposing skyscrapers for a moment; there are other parts of Japan that provide just as much wonder and entertainment without the oppressive crowds. Appi is proof of this. This enormous ski resort in the mountains of northern Japan is shockingly big, yet it rarely gets crowded, so it feels much bigger than it is. Appi is one of the country's tranquil getaways that wonderfully exposes visitors to the genuine, calm Japanese way of life that hasn't yet been unduly damaged by tourism, with a tiny population of natives and a modest number of Japanese tourists as its major visitors. Skiers of all levels may take advantage of the year-round getaway, which offers breathtaking views as the seasons change. Additionally, those who grow tired of the skiing, snowy mountains, and breathtaking scenery will be happy to discover that Hachinohe is only a one-hour drive away, opening up a wealth of additional activities and sights that are accessible from Appi.