Travel is evolving, with slow travel emerging as a popular new trend. Gone are the days of fast-paced travel, running across the city to cover as many tourist attractions as possible in one day. Tourists now travel at a relaxed pace, seeking immersive experiences, cultural connections, and escape from crowded tourist hotspots. This trend recognises underrated vacation ideas and makes them mainstream by highlighting slow travel destinations. Asia is being reinvented through slow travel, with international travellers focusing on less explored places rather than conventional tourist destinations.
Explore more with our selection of Asian resorts that embrace the philosophy of slow travel.
Travel booking platform Agoda analysed data to identify Asia’s top slow travel destinations for you to discover. Thailand’s Khao Lak leads the list, followed by South Korea’s Seoul and Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands. Ahmedabad has been identified as the best slow travel destination in India.
Beyond the obvious: 8 best slow travel destinations in Asia 2024
Khao Lak, Thailand
This small village in Phang Nga province is a surfer’s paradise, promising white sand beaches, crystal clear water and fewer crowds.
Seoul, South Korea
The fast-paced capital city has quaint spots, like the backstreets of Bum-dong, Baeksasil Valley, and Seongbuk-dong, which make you want to take it slow and embrace the beauty and Korean culture.
Plan your Korean itinerary to include the top free things to do in Seoul, South Korea.
Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
Off the Terengganu coast is this slow tropical paradise, ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving through the coral reefs around Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar.
Tokyo, Japan
As a slow travel destination, the lesser-known neighbourhoods of Japan’s bustling capital, like Yanaka, Koenji, Shimokitazawa, and Sangenjaya, offer out-of-this-world experiences that make you forget you are in the city.
Explore more with our first-timer’s guide to exploring Tokyo.
Siargao Island, the Philippines
Besides being the surfing capital of the Philippines, wonders like Sohoton Cove and Hagukan Cave inspire you to immerse yourself in the lap of nature.
Pekanbaru, Indonesia
Malay culture, history and nature beautifully blend with the vibrant city of Pekanbaru. You can relax at Kayangan Lake, Kampung Bandar and Muara Takus Buddhist temple.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Slow down and feel the rhythm of Ho Chi Minh City, where experiencing the local culture and cuisine is one of the major attractions.
Ahmedabad, India
The list takes a surprising turn with Ahmedabad emerging as India’s top slow travel destination. Navigate the streets of this city to experience rich Gujarati culture along the Manek Chowk market and learn about the nation’s history and industries through Sabarmati Ashram and the Calico Museum of Textiles.
(Feature image credit: Vatsal fadia/Shutterstock)
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Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. As a former Food Writer at NDTV, she can help you find the best places to eat in Delhi!
