Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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Little Mount & St Thomas Mount (Chinnamalai & Parangi Malai)
According to legend, St Thomas, a disciple of Christ, lived out the remainder of his days in a rocky cave, known as Little Mount (Chinnamalai). A small opening near the cave is supposedly the tunnel exit that St Thomas escaped from when fleeing from his assailants. He fled to St Thomas Mount (Parangi Malai), just under 2 miles (3 kilometers) away from Little Mount, where he was later martyred while praying on top of the hill in 72 AD.
Today, Little Mount is home to a Portuguese church dating back to 1551, as well as a small alter to St Thomas in the rocky cave opening and a palm print believed by some to be left by Thomas himself as he fled. Reaching the Church of Our Lady of Expectation, built in 1523 on St Thomas Mount, requires climbing 135 steps with the Stations of the Cross along the way. A stone cross that was excavated by the Portuguese in 1547 was inlaid into the wall of the church’s altar.
Today, Little Mount is home to a Portuguese church dating back to 1551, as well as a small alter to St Thomas in the rocky cave opening and a palm print believed by some to be left by Thomas himself as he fled. Reaching the Church of Our Lady of Expectation, built in 1523 on St Thomas Mount, requires climbing 135 steps with the Stations of the Cross along the way. A stone cross that was excavated by the Portuguese in 1547 was inlaid into the wall of the church’s altar.
Address: Chennai, India
From $ 30
Lingyun Temple
Located on Lingyun Mountain, Lingyun Temple is also referred to as the Great Buddha Temple because of its spot at the head of the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha in the world.On both sides of the entrance gate to the temple are four memorial monuments, with the principal building composed of the Tianwang, or Heavenly King Hall, the Precious Hall of the Great Hero and the Scripture Collection Hall, all of which neatly form a multi-tiered courtyard house.
It’s said that in the year 713, the confluence waterway of the Dadu, Min and Qingyi rivers was a rushing torrent and a danger to both shipping vessels and the livelihood of the local people. A monk of the Lingyun Temple believed that the waters might be calmed if a giant likeness of Buddha was chiseled out of the cliffs, facing the turbulent waterway, so the Leshan Giant Buddha was created and has supposedly been protecting those who navigate the river ever since.
Practical Info
A great option for a day trip, Lingyun Temple is located about a two-hour drive outside of Chengdu. Take a taxi from Leshan City to the Giant Buddha or take a ferry ship from Leshan Harbor to the Giant Buddha.
Address: Lingyun Mountain, Leshan, China
Hours: Daily 9am-4:50pm
Admission: 90 RMB
From $ 84
Linh Ung Pagoda
Famous for its giant statue of Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, Linh Ung Pagoda occupies 30 acres (12 hectares) on a hill on the Son Tra Peninsula. Opened in 2010, the relatively new pagoda complex features a mix of modern and traditional Vietnamese temple architecture, including a typical three-entrance gate.
According to local legend, a smaller pagoda was built on the same site during the nineteenth century, when a local villager living on the peninsula found a statue of the Buddha drifting near the beach.
As visitors pass through the main gate of the pagoda, they are met by 18 stone statues of the 18 Arhats, believed to be the original followers of the Buddha, whose expressions run the gamut from joy and love to anger and sadness. Towering above the grounds is the 220-foot (67-meter) Guanyin statue. Within the giant monument, visitors can ascend 17 floors, each displaying Buddha statues depicting his various aspects.
Practical Info
The Linh Ung Pagoda can be reached by bicycle from Da Nang or by taxi from Hoi An, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away.
Address: 574D Ong Ich Khiem, Da Nang, Vietnam
Hours: 40 kilometers from Hoi An
From $ 38
Lion Grove Garden
Built by a Buddhist monk in 1342, the Lion Grove Garden is one of the oldest classical gardens in Suzhou and one of nine gardens in the area recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its uniqueness lies in its unusual design of grotto mazes, ponds, and pavilions, with a large and elaborate grotto of taihu rocks at its center. Anyone interested in oriental design and architecture, as well as nature and history, will appreciate a visit here.
The garden's massive grotto is made up of a maze of paths winding through 21 caves across three levels, with a pond dividing the grotto into east and west sections. The rocks, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, are piled up in such a way that they are meant to resemble lions in various positions. Elsewhere in the garden, there are buildings, trees, ponds, and other elements to explore.
Lion Grove Garden can be visited as part of a day trip from Shanghai to Suzhou. Enjoy a stroll in the grotto maze here, followed by lunch and shopping nearby, or perhaps even a boat ride along the canal. The high-speed express train from Shanghai makes the journey easy, and is included on some organized tours.
Practical Info
Lion Grove Garden is situated close to Pingjiang Road in Suzhou. It is open daily from 7:30am to 5:30pm. Admission is 40 CNY in spring and summer, and 30 CNY in autumn and winter. Children under 3'11"(1.2 m) tall can enter the Lion Grove Garden for free when accompanied by an adult. For children under 4'11" tall (1.5 m), entrance is half price. This is a popular site with uneven grounds, so be sure to take your time and watch your step while exploring.
Did You Know? Aside from the Lion Grove Garden, the Lingering Garden, Humble Administrator’s Garden, and the Master of Nets Garden are the most famous of Suzhou's UNESCO-listed classical gardens.
Address: 23 Yuanlin Road, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 89
Leshan Giant Buddha
Standing 233 feet (71 meters) tall, the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds the record as the largest Buddha sculpture in the world. A Buddhist monk—hoping to earn divine protection for the local fishermen—carved the massive statue into a cliff, starting in 713. Ninety years later, the carving was finished.
The Basics
A day tour to the Buddha statue from Chengdu starts with a scenic 2-hour drive, often followed by a guided tour of the statue. The tour also stops at several of the Buddhist temples that surround the statue, including the Grand Buddha Temple located behind the giant Buddha's head and Wuyou Temple, where you'll find some of the best views of the statue.
You can also take a boat ride on the Mingjiang River to see the Buddha from a different perspective. Tours to the statue are frequently combined with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, and if you have an extra day in your itinerary, it's possible to combine your visit to the statue with a tour of Mount Emei, one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains and another UNESCO-listed site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Leshan Giant Buddha is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Day trips to the statue from Chengdu typically last eight to 10 hours, depending on the option chosen.
- Be prepared to climb up and down steps that could be challenging for those with limited mobility.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
Located 85 miles (137 kilometers) south of Chengdu, the Leshan Buddha is best visited on a day trip from the Sichuan capital. To get there independently, take the long-distance bus from Xinnanmen Bus Station in Chengdu to Leshan Xiaoba Station and then take Bus 13 to the site.
When to Get There
Due to Leshan’s rainy climate, it’s best to visit during the spring or fall when temperatures are warm and relatively dry. The area receives about 80 percent of its annual rainfall during the summer.
Notable Details of the Stone Buddha
To help protect the giant Buddha statue from Leshan’s frequent rainfall, its builders constructed a hidden drainage system—a series of gutters and channels that displace rainwater to help protect the integrity of the statue. Among the other interesting features are 1,012 buns of coiled hair embedded into the carved head of the Buddha.
Address: Mt Emei, Shizhong, Southwest China, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Laoshan Scenic Area
Laoshan Scenic Area, one of China’s first national parks, has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. The hills and slopes surrounding the 3,280-foot (1,000-meter) peak of Mount Lao were once hope to eight temples, nine palaces and six dozen convents.
While many of the park’s architectural treasures have been lost to time, it’s still possible to visit the Taoist Taiqing Palace, the park’s oldest, built in 140 BC. Natural wonders add to the appeal, including the majestic Chaoyin waterfall and numerous striking sea views.
The mineral waters originating within the scenic area are famous throughout China as well; they’re a main ingredient in China’s famous Tsingtao beer.
Practical Info
You can see most of the important sites within the park on a day trip from Qingdao, but try to avoid visiting during a Chinese national holiday.
Address: Qingdao, Shandong, China
Hours: April 1-Oct 31: 7am-6:30pm
Admission: 90 Yuan
From $ 95
Little Li River (Yulong River)
The Yulong River, also known as the Little Li River, is the largest tributary of the Li River, and it runs 26 miles (43 kilometers) across Yangshuo county. The river flows past limestone karsts, bamboo forests, rice paddies, ancient villages, and stone bridges. Floating down the river, or hiking or biking next to it, provides up-close views.
The Basics
Cruising down the Yulong River in a bamboo raft with poles offers an experience that’s serene when compared to the motorized rafts and boats used on the Li River, but you also bump over weirs, or small dams. Historical points of interest include the villages of Xiatang and Jiuxian villages, and Yulong, Fuli, and Xiangui stone bridges.
While cruising on a bamboo raft is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the Yulong River, many enjoy hiking or biking along the river. Try all three over a course of a half-day or longer guided tour and enjoy the river and countryside without worrying about navigating. For multi-day tours, additional activities such as rock climbing or a cooking school can be added.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Hiking, biking, or rafting the Yulong River is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and photographers.
- Check individual tours for age restrictions on riding on a bamboo raft.
- Grab a bite to eat or a cold drink at one of the floating restaurants along the river.
How to Get There
The Yulong River connects to Li River just south of Yangshuo and is easily visited from Yangshuo. Most of the Yulong River is within the newly created Yulong River Park, which restricts motorized traffic. Those entering other than on foot or bike will have to exit their transport and purchase tickets for a shuttle bus that runs within the park.
When to Get There
The Yulong River can be visited year-round, but it’s most popular April through October due to the sunny, warmer weather. Some people may find the heat uncomfortable for hiking or biking at the height of summer (June through August). Rafting runs year-round.
Popular Rafting, Biking, and Hiking Routes
The three most popular rafting routes along the Yulong River are from Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian Village (about 2.5 hours), Chaoyang Wharf to Gongnong Bridge (about two hours), and from Chaoyang Wharf to Shui edi Dock (about one hour). Most bike tours along Li River take between two and four hours. The most popular section for hiking is between Yulong Bridge and Gongnong Bridge, and takes about two hours.
Address: Yangshuo, Guilin, China
From $ 25
Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan)
One of the four most famous classical gardens of Suzhou, the Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan) has World Heritage status and also showcases two UNESCO Intangible World Heritage Arts: Pingtan and Guqin music. The garden makes fantastic use of space, with a harmonious layout of temples, statues, rockeries, halls, bridges, and ponds.
Covering almost six acres, the garden is divided into four areas: the east, west, central, and north sections, all of which are connected via a half-mile (700-meter) corridor featuring calligraphy carved into its stone walls. The central area features many buildings surrounding a pond and grotto, while the east garden includes a miniature mountain modeled after Tiantai Mountain, as well as the Celestial Hall of Five Peaks, the largest hall in the garden. The west section is mostly natural, with a large rockery built during the Ming Dynasty, while the north garden, once used to grow vegetables, now showcases a range of potted plants.
Popular among families, the Lingering Garden is often visited on day trips from Shanghai that also include other famous classical gardens in Suzhou. It's common to combine a trip here with visits to the famous water towns of Zhouzhuang and Tongli, but other options include visits to Shantang Old Street and Tiger Hill. For a unique day out, book a Suzhou culture and art tour, which includes a Suzhou opera performance at the Master of Nets Garden.
Insider Tip: There are many classical gardens in Suzhou. Aside from the Lingering Garden, you shouldn't miss the Humble Administrator's Garden or Lion Grove Garden.
Practical Info
Suzhou is located about 62 miles (100 km) west of Shanghai and is connected by high-speed train. Some tours include the high-speed train, while others use road transport. Suzhou can also be reached by bus; take Tourist Bus No. 1 and alight at the Liuyan stop.
Address: 338 Liuyuan Road, Suzhou, Eastern China 215004, China
Hours: Daily 7:30am–5pm
Admission: CNY 45–55
From $ 55
Li River
Along the banks of the Li River as it winds south from Guilin, dramatic karst peaks, dense vegetation, and the winding river itself create magical vistas that loom large in the Chinese imagination, having inspired art and verse for centuries. From Guilin to Yangshuo, there’s never a dull stretch along China’s most beautiful river.
The Basics
For many visitors, a Li River cruise between Yangshuo and Guilin ranks as a highlight of any trip to the area. While it’s possible to transfer between the two towns along the river, it’s also a popular option for a day trip from Guilin; you might combine a Li River cruise with a bamboo raft excursion on the Yulong River and a tour of picturesque Yangshuo, with its old-style houses along West Street. Come nightfall, the Li River serves as a stage for Zhang Yimou’s dreamy Impression Sanjie Liu show in Yangshuo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Li River is a must-see for first-time visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- A typical Li River boat trip lasts four hours, while a full-day tour to Yangshuo from Guilin lasts upwards of eight hours.
How to Get There
While the Li River is much longer than the 52-mile (83-kilometer) length connecting Guilin and Yangshuo, these two towns represent the most popular access points. Cruises depart from Mopanshan Dock in Guilin and Xingping Dock in Yangshuo.
When to Get There
One of the best times to see the Li River is during autumn (September to November), when the weather is cool and dry. Cruises during the summer rainy season might be slightly shorter due to faster flowing water.
Sights Along the Li River
The stretch of river between Guilin and Yangshuo is packed with notable attractions, including several natural landmarks. Rice terraces where water buffalo roam are punctuated by named karst formations like Elephant Trunk Hill, Nine Horses Painted Hill, and Yellow Cloth Shoal. Beneath the karsts lie fascinating cave systems, including Reed Flute Cave and Crown Cave.
Address: China
From $ 42
Lantau Island
The largest of Hong Kong’s outlying islands, Lantau is twice the size of Hong Kong Island, yet it has only a fraction of the population. Where Hong Kong is an urban jungle of sorts, Lantau is a mostly quiet escape famous for its long beaches, traditional fishing villages, Buddhist monuments, outlet shopping, and mountainous interior popular with hikers. The northern tip of the island is home to both Hong Kong International Airport and Hong Kong Disneyland.
The Basics
Whether arriving in Hong Kong by air or spending a day with Mickey Mouse, many travelers find themselves on Lantau Island at some point during their Hong Kong trip. But the rest of the island is worthy of exploration as well, especially for those looking for a break from the urban buzz of central Hong Kong. Ride the Ngong Ping cable car to the Po Lin Monastery with its bronze Big Buddha statue (also called the Tian Tan Buddha), search for dolphins from stilt houses in the Tai O fishing village, hike to the top of Lantau Peak, bask in the sun along Cheung Sha Beach or Pui O Beach, or dine on freshly caught seafood at Discovery Bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can choose between adventure and culture tours on Lantau Island.
- Many Lantau tours include round-trip transportation to and from your hotel in Hong Kong.
- The northern part of the island is the busiest; head south to see a more rural Lantau.
- Remember to bring sunscreen and water, as the area can get hot and humid.
- Wear suitable shoes comfortable for walking over uneven ground.
How to Get to Lantau Island
The fastest way to get to Lantau Island from Hong Kong is by taking the MTR to Tung Chung station. The ride takes about 25 minutes and connects with the special rail service shuttling guests to Disneyland. More scenic is the ferry ride departing from Central Hong Kong to either Discovery Bay or Mui Wo.
When to Get There
The weather tends to be cool and dry between October and February, making it a pleasant time to visit. Expect temperatures in the upper 80s with high humidity during the summer months. Budget-minded travelers should plan to visit on a weekday or Saturday, as ferries and buses impose a surcharge on Sundays and public holidays.
Where to Find the Best Views on Lantau Island
Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak gets all the attention for its panoramic views, but Lantau has some gems of its own. For a stellar sunrise view of the island and the South China Sea, give Lantau Peak a try (you can hike to the top or take a cable car ride), or for a romantic spot to bid farewell to the day, climb up to the aptly named Sunset Peak.
Address: China
Admission: Free
From $ 19
Little India (Jalan Masjid India)
One of two South Asian enclaves in Kuala Lumpur—the other, also known as Little India, is in Brickfields—Little India sits conveniently near Chinatown, making the pair an easy destination for food tours. Set around Jalan Masjid India (Indian Mosque Street), this bustling district offers rewards from markets and sari stores to eateries.
The Basics
You don’t need a tour to soak up the atmosphere in downtown Kuala Lumpur and, needless to say, there’s no entrance fee to Little India. It’s often a quick photo stop on Kuala Lumpur orientation tours.
However, if discovering Kuala Lumpur’s diverse cuisine is on your to-do list—and it should be—then a food tour that explores the Indian food on offer either here or in Brickfields is a must. You’ll cover more ground than you would independently, head straight to the good stuff, and taste more than you’d be able to taste outside the food-tour context.
Things to Know Before You Go
- No visit to Kuala Lumpur is complete without discovering the city’s delicious Indian food.
- From saris to spices, Little India is retail therapy writ large—bring cash.
- The Little India in Brickfields is larger than the Little India on Jalan Masjid India, but Jalan Masjid India is more central. Whether to visit one or both is up to you.
- Chettinad cooking, from the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is big in this Little India, both in street eateries and more formal restaurants.
How to Get There
Jalan Masjid India is conveniently placed in the heart of town, within easy walking distance of Chinatown and the Central Market. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Kuala Lumpur, hop on a Light Rail Transit (LRT) train to Masjid Jamek. The station connects lines 3, 4, and 5 (Ampang, Sri Petaling, and Kelana Jaya, respectively).
When to Get There
Little India can be visited at any time of day but is particularly charming early in the evening when the night market on Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman is in full flow. To enjoy the best breads, particularly the area’s signature roti canai, come in the morning, as these are primarily breakfast snacks.
Kuala Lumpur’s Multicultural Food
It was Chinese miners who founded the city of Kuala Lumpur, during a tin boom in the 19th century. Ever since its inception, under British colonial forces, the city has been a mixture of South Asian, Chinese, and Malay influences. Besides classically Indian food, look out for Malay Indian fusions known as “Mamak” when touring LIttle India.
Address: Jalan Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Admission: Free
From $ 8
Lingyin Temple
Lingyin Temple is one of the oldest and most famous Buddhist temples in China and a top attraction in Hangzhou. Situated at the foot of Lingyin Mountain and surrounded by forest, Lingyin Temple is known for its tranquil setting, spiritual atmosphere, and numerous pagodas, grottoes, and Buddhist relics.
The Basics
Lingyin Temple, aka the “Temple of the Soul’s Retreat,” was founded in AD 326 and has been rebuilt many times since then. First, pass through Feilai Feng, or Flying Peak, which has hundreds of Buddhist statues carved into the hillside, along the river, and inside caves and grottoes. Be sure to visit the main halls of the temple, including the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, the Grand Hall, and the Hall of the Buddha of Medicine.
Lingyin Temple can be visited independently, but many visitors appreciate the extra insight offered by a guided tour. Most day tours of Hangzhou, including those from Shanghai, include Lingyin Temple and other top attractions, such as West Lake and Leifeng Pagoda. Customize which attractions you visit with a private day tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You must enter Flying Peak before you can access Lingyin Temple. Admission fees are required for both.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of ground to cover for both Linyin Temple and the Flying Peak area.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the temple.
- There is a vegetarian restaurant inside the temple and a number of restaurants nearby.
How to Get There
Linyin Temple is located at No. 1 Fayun Lane, Lingyin Road in the Xihu District of Hangzhou. From Hangzhou Airport, take the shuttle bus (departs every 30–40 minutes) to Hangzhou Railway Station. From there, take bus nos. Y2 or K7, and get off at the Lingyin stop. Taxis are the most direct way of getting to the temple.
When to Get There
Lingyin Temple is extremely popular, especially during weekends and public holidays, and can see thousands of visitors a day when busy. Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat.
Lingyin Temple Highlights
Find the Maitreya (Future) Buddha, manifested as the Laughing Buddha, and the Skanda Bodhisattva, the temple’s oldest statue at more than 800 years old, in the Hall of the Heavenly Kings. The ornate ceiling has paintings of dragons and phoenixes. Gaze at the giant gold-plated statue of Shakyamuni on a lotus flower in the Grand Hall. It's one of the largest wood-carved Buddhist statues in the world at more than 80 feet (24.4 meters) tall.
Address: China
Admission: Varies
From $ 54
Little India
For subcontinental color, cuisine, and atmosphere, head to Singapore’s Little India, one of the island’s most vibrant districts. Shops, restaurants, street vendors, and colorful Hindu temples line the streets of Little India, making it an excellent place to take a walk. The culture and community center of Little India, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is the neighborhood’s most important Hindu Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
The Basics
Walking tours of Little India take you past fragrant flower shops and through markets teeming with colorful fashions, foods, and traditional crafts. No tour would be complete without sampling some of the area’s best bites, as aromas of spicy curries and dosas waft from the neighborhood’s many street vendors. Many cultural and sightseeing tours of the city stop in Little India, as do the blue and red lines of the Singapore Flyer hop-on hop-off bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Little India is a must-visit for shoppers and foodies.
- Dive deep into the local culture on a walking tour, or catch the highlights on a citywide sightseeing tour.
- Bring cash with you, as many of the smaller shops and food stalls do not accept credit cards.
How to Get There
Getting to Little India by public transportation is a breeze; the easiest way is to take the MRT to Little India, Farrer Park, or Rochor stations. Over a dozen bus lines also service the neighborhood.
When to Get There
Shops in Little India tend to open mid-morning and often stay open late. Plan to visit at mealtime to take advantage of the great food, and if you want to see the district at its most colorful, plan your trip during a cultural festival like Diwali (Deepavali).
Best Bets in Little India
If you’re planning to do some shopping in Little India, don’t miss the Little India Arcade. This collection of wall-to-wall shops along Campbell Lane sells everything from framed prints of Hindu gods and goddesses to hand-embroidered saris. Open 24 hours, Mustafa Centre is an indoor market packed with all sorts of products. If you’re having trouble deciding what you want to eat, head to the Tekka Centre, Singapore’s best hawker center for Indian fare.
Address: Serangoon Road, 207474, Singapore
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Leeum Samsung Museum of Art
The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, tucked away on the hills of Namsan, celebrates Korean and Western art and architecture from the past, present and future. The three buildings, each designed by a world-renowned architect, house works from the Samsung Foundation’s extensive art collection, ranging from ancient Buddhist artifacts to modern works of art.
The first building, designed by Mario Botta, houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and Korean ceramics, calligraphy and paintings. The second, designed by Jean Nouvel, covers Korean an international works of art from 1910 to the present. The third building, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is where you’ll find the Child Education and Culture Center.
Make sure to visit the top floor of Museum 1 to see the family’s private collection of Korean celadon pottery. To learn more about what you’ll be seeing, pick up an audio guide as you enter the museum or come on Saturday or Sunday afternoons for free English tours of the museum at 3pm.
The first building, designed by Mario Botta, houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and Korean ceramics, calligraphy and paintings. The second, designed by Jean Nouvel, covers Korean an international works of art from 1910 to the present. The third building, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is where you’ll find the Child Education and Culture Center.
Make sure to visit the top floor of Museum 1 to see the family’s private collection of Korean celadon pottery. To learn more about what you’ll be seeing, pick up an audio guide as you enter the museum or come on Saturday or Sunday afternoons for free English tours of the museum at 3pm.
Address: 747-18, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Open Tue-Sun 10:30 am - 6:00 pm.
Admission: Permanent Exhibition: Adult 10,000won,Child/Senior 6,000won.
From $ 73
Laxmi Vilas Palace
Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890 (and designed by British architect Major Charles Mant), Laxmi Vilas Palace still serves as the residence of the Vadorada royal family. The Indo-Saracenic architectural style of the facade features elements of European, Indian and Islamic traditions, and when it was completed, the palace ranked among the largest private residences in the world.
The equally elaborate interiors feature beautiful mosaics, including a Venetian mosaic floor in the Durbar Hall laid by the Murano Company of Venice over a period of 18 months. Carrara marble, Italian sculptures by Signor Fellicci, stained glass windows from England, paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and Venetian chandeliers put the finishing touches on this magnificent Raj-era palace. The landscaped gardens also house the small Maharaja Fatesingh Museum, worth a visit if you’re already at the palace.
Practical Info
Download an English audio tour on your smart phone before your visit for a self-guided Royal Tour of the grounds.
Address: J.N. Marg, Vadodara, Gujarat, India, India
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 10am-5pm
Admission: 170 rupees
From $ 83
Leofoo Village Theme Park
The Leofoo Village Theme Park is a combined amusement park and safari experience located in Guanxi Town in Hsinchu County, Taiwan.
The park is divided into four themed areas, including African Safari, Wild West, South Pacific, and Arabian Kingdom. There are a number of roller coasters, including a twist-and-turn ride, an inverted shuttle coaster, and a Ushaped spiral coaster that makes 360 degree turns and drops at speeds of more than 120kph. The park also features various water rides, plus magic carpets and the Little Rattler, themed on an old mining railway.
The African Safari zone is the only safari park in Taiwan where more than 70 species and around a thousand wild animals can be seen. Visitors can tour the area by sedan, bus, or the Nairobi Express steam train. The Monkey Trail in this zone covers an area of more than two acres and features almost 30 species of rare and protected primates, such as baboons and orangutans.
Practical Info
The Leofoo Village Theme Park can be easily reached by car, with free parking available on-site. If arriving by public transport, alight at Chungli Station and switch to a Hsinchu bus to reach the park.
Address: No.60 Gongzigou, Guanxi, Taiwan
Hours: 9am-5pm (9am-8am July & August)
Admission: Adult: TWD 999 / Student (over 12): TWD 899 / Children: TWD 699
From $ 39
Legoland Malaysia
With more than 70 rides, tons of interactive shows, a handful of wild water slides and seven LEGO-themed exhibits, LEGOLAND Malaysia has become a top destination for families traveling to Kuala Lumpur.
While the massive park offers little visitors plenty to do and see, one of the favorite stops among visitors is MINILAND, where some 30 million LEGOs have been used to recreate iconic Asian landmarks on a much smaller scale. Kids can bring the models to life with the touch of a button and watch trains, planes and cars travel through the tiny land.
Even the water park, which includes 20 slides, pools and rivers, is LEGO themed, with 70 models build by LEGO experts. Kids can even construct their own rafts from soft LEGO bricks and float down one of the park’s lazy rivers.
Practical Info
One-day passes for the theme and water parks cost 150 MYR for adults and 120 MYR for children. The park is open most days from 10am until 6pm and parking is available on site for an additional fee. LEGOLAND is located east of the Nusajaya exit 312 off the Second Link Expressway.
Address: 7, Jalan Legoland, Bandar Medini, Nusajaya, Johor 79250, Malaysia
Hours: 10am-6pm
Admission: 150 MYR
From $ 25
Leifeng Pagoda
Leifeng Pagoda is a five-story tower located on Sunset Hill in Hangzhou, providing panoramic views over West Lake. The original pagoda was built in 975AD during the Five Dynasties and Ten States Period on orders of King Qian Chu to celebrate the birth of his son. However, after a tumultuous history, the structure collapsed in 1924. The pagoda was eventually rebuilt and opened to the public in 2002.
The original Leifeng Pagoda was a five-story octagonal structure too. However, unlike the modern version that stands today, it was built almost entirely from brick and wood. The new pagoda is instead made from 1400 tonnes of steel with 200 tonnes of copper parts. At the entrance there are two escalators to carry visitors to the base of the pagoda, and there are a number of viewing platforms to climb up to in order to marvel at the views. The new pagoda also features such modern amenities such as air-conditioning and speakers, although the ruins of the original building, along with a number of historical artifacts, can still be seen at the site.
Practical Info
To reach Leifeng Pagoda, take the tourist bus Y2 and alight at Jingsi Station.
Address: 15 Nanshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310007, China
Hours: 8am-8pm daily
Admission: CNY40
From $ 54
Lippo Center
The Lippo Center is a twin-tower skyscraper situated on Hong Kong Island that was designed by the American architect, Paul Rudolph. The unique building has become an iconic Hong Kong landmark and has been nicknamed The Koala Tree on account of the protruding windows bearing a similarity to koalas climbing a tree!
The two towers that make up the Lippo Center are similar in design but differ in height; Lippo Center 1 is 172 meters tall, while Lippo Center 2 reaches a height of 186 meters. Both towers are set on a four-story podium, which is home to a large atrium and a retail center.
The Lippo Center is situated on a busy road right in the heart of the city, with fantastic views of nearby Hong Kong Park. Walkways connect the base of the towers to the buildings that surround the complex, as well as a nearby MTR station.
Practical Info
The Lippo Center is located just outside the Admiralty MTR station on Queensway Road. You can also get a completely unobstructed view of the towers from Hong Kong Park.
Address: Hong Kong, China
From $ 12
Lau Pa Sat Market
The Lau Pa Sat Market in the busy business district is great place to go to enjoy some local food and take in the history of a building that is well older than many of the mega-structures that surround it. Built in the 19th century, the Victorian structure is basically a glorified food court, but with tons of great and inexpensive options.
The cast-iron structure housing the Lau Pa Sat Market has an old-time feel as the food is served from small vendors in a large dining hall made of small tables. Luckily, it is located walking distance from the Marina Bay between Raffles Quay and Robinson Road, making it ideal for a snack at almost any time.
Among the food selection is satay, soups, loads of fish, including sting ray, curry dishes and barbeque pork buns—a taste of several regional dishes infused with Singaporean tastes.
The cast-iron structure housing the Lau Pa Sat Market has an old-time feel as the food is served from small vendors in a large dining hall made of small tables. Luckily, it is located walking distance from the Marina Bay between Raffles Quay and Robinson Road, making it ideal for a snack at almost any time.
Among the food selection is satay, soups, loads of fish, including sting ray, curry dishes and barbeque pork buns—a taste of several regional dishes infused with Singaporean tastes.
Address: Singapore
From $ 62