Things to Do in Asia

Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia

Bangkok National Museum

The main branch of the National Museums in Thailand, Bangkok's main public museum is also the largest museum in all of South East Asia. Spread out over acres of green grounds and multiple buildings, the museum is a showcase for Thai art and history. Although it used to be considered unorganized, dusty and forgotten, it's recently been renovated and updated and now features a vibrant collection of artifacts with clear English-language descriptions.

Inside you will find a truly enormous collection of treasures including paintings, sculptures, bronzes and prehistoric art from Thailand and other Asian countries. You will want to give yourself plenty of time to thoroughly cover the exhibits and may want to consider hiring a guide for a more targeted tour. Highlights include a replica funeral chariot hall, the Buddhaisawan chapel and the weapon galleries.

4 Thanon Na Phra That, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

Open 9am - 4pm Wed-Sun, closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and national holidays.

From $ 10

Bang Saen Aquarium (Institute of Marine Science)

The Bang Saen Aquarium / Institute of Marine Science is housed within Burapha University at Bang Saen Beach in Chonburi. The institute is divided into three sections; the marine science museum, the aquarium, and a research laboratory. The center exists both for research purposes and as a place for students and visitors to learn about marine science.

The museum is creatively arranged, featuring exhibitions on marine preservation and restoration, with information on ecology and examples of stuffed sea animals. As you might expect, the aquarium is the main place to view various live fish, with a tunnel revealing the big fish and a high tank showcasing swarms of smaller fish. It’s a modern aquarium with a real underwater environment divided into different ocean zones. Elsewhere, the laboratory is the main research center that allows the institute to make new discoveries about marine life.

A trip to the Bang Saen Aquarium can be combined with visiting other sights and attractions in the area on a half-day Pattaya discovery tour, including ‘Monkey Cliff’ plus Ang Sila, a small fishing community famous for its oyster farms and stonemason villages.

Insider’s Tip: Divers feed the giant groupers in the aquarium every day at 2:30pm, with an additional feeding time of 10:30am on weekends and public holidays.

Practical Info

If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach Bang Saen Aquarium by hiring a motorbike or taxi and heading along Highway No.3 until you reach Bang Saen. The institute is within the Burapha University compound on Long Had Bang Sean Road.

Long Had Bang Sean Road, Chonburi, Thailand

8:30am-5pm, Tuesday to Sunday

Adult: 220 THB / Child: 120 THB

From $ 54

Banaras Ghats

Varanasi’s ghats (Banaras Ghats) descend from the city down the banks and into the waters of the holy River Ganges. There are almost 100 individual ghats lining the river’s edge in this region, their steep steps making access to the river possible during both the wet and dry seasons. The oldest and most famous ghats in the area are Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika, and Harishchandra. Others include Assi Ghat, Scindia Ghat, Lalita Ghat, and Kedar Ghat.

As the religious capital of India among Hindus, Varanasi sees pilgrims and other visitors drawn to the Banaras Ghats in their droves. Visitors can absorb the atmosphere by taking a sunrise boat-ride along the river, while marveling at the colorful temples and religious activities lining the water’s edge.

Devout Hindus aim to travel to the Banaras Ghats at least once in their lifetimes, and most hope to die and be cremated within the city in order that their ashes be swept away by the Ganges. The cremation fires here burn all day every day, with the main cremation ghat being Manikarnika. Some ghats are simply used for prayers and bathing.

Practical Info

Travel between the Banaras Ghats by auto-rickshaw or on a boat trip along the river. Trips from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat are popular, although some boat operators begin at the most southerly ghat, Assi, and head north.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India

From $ 35

Bangla Road

This eclectic strip of bars, discos, shops and attractions is the epicenter of entertainment in Patong. It offers a taste of some local traditions, as well as near unlimited access to plenty of western amenities. Travelers can shop for high-end fashions, flashy new swimsuits or local souvenirs at the massive Bangla Mall.

Bangla Road is also a popular drinking destination. Beer bars serving ice-cold Thai brews ice cold entice passersby with aircon and open tables filled with favorite board games. But perhaps Bangla Road is best known for its evening entertainment. Stop by Rock Hard—one of the street’s oldest institutions—for live go-go dancers, center-stage pole dancing and strong drinks, or grab a ticket to the popular Simon Cabaret in Patong’s Paradise Complex. The famous ladyboys put on one of the largest transvestite shows in all of Asia.

Practical Info

Bangala Road is the liveliest stretch of nightlife in Patong, but the 10 or so side streets between Beach Road and Rat U Thit Road offer even more options for dance, music, drinks and ladies.

Patong, Phuket, Thailand

From $ 6

Banjar Hot Springs

Set in the hills west of Lovina, Banjar Hot Springs (Air Panas Banjar) are among Bali’s most beautiful. Dragon-head fountains feed three tiered pools that are surrounded by tropical forest and palms. Guests also have the use of lockers, changing rooms, a restaurant, and a simple spa.

The Basics

There is a small charge to enter Banjar Hot Springs and another for a locker. You don’t need to join a tour to visit; it’s easy to hire a private driver for the day, or you can self-drive from nearby Lovina. However, if you’re based in south Bali, a tour that combines Banjar Hot Springs with other north and central Bali destinations, such as Lovina, Munduk, and Bedugul, makes sense.

Things to Know Before You Go

Banjar Hot Springs will appeal to adults and families with older kids; time in the hot water should be carefully limited for children under the age of 5.
The temperature of the waters is about 100°F (38°C).
You can bring your own swimming things, or purchase towels and swimwear at the springs.
Visiting Banjar Hot Springs involves climbing steps with no wheelchair access.

How to Get There

Banjar Hot Springs are in north Bali, a few miles southwest of Lovina, in the hills near the village of Banjar. If you’re staying in Lovina, you can drive yourself or arrange for a private driver. It can take as long as four hours to reach Banjar Hot Springs from Ngurah Rai International Airport, so if you’re touring from south Bali, it pays to hire a driver.

When to Get There

Banjar Hot Springs are open daily, from morning until early evening. To avoid crowds, don’t go on weekends or Indonesian public holidays. Instead, visit on a weekday morning, before the Indonesian school day ends.

Bali Hot Springs

Indonesia is home to more active volcanoes than any nation on earth. One benefit of all that underground activity is a wealth of hot springs, including some so scalding that bathing would be lethal. Banjar Hot Springs and the hot springs on Lake Batur, Kintamani, are Bali’s best hot springs.

Bali, Indonesia

From $ 46

Bannerghatta National Park

One of India's largest wildlife areas, the enormous Bannerghatta National Park spans more than 25,000 acres (10,000 hectares) and features tons of hiking trails, villages, and temples. The highlight of the reserve is the Bannerghatta Biological Park, which features an animal rescue center, a zoo, safaris, and a butterfly park.

The Basics

Forests and scrubs cover the hilly park, which plays home to all sorts of wild creatures, including elephants, deer, leopards, and even bears. It also offers an interesting variety of plant life, including tamarind, eucalyptus, and sandalwood. This off-the-beaten-track attraction makes for an excellent day trip from Bangalore, and private tours from the city are available for those who don't want to figure out bus schedules or book taxis and tickets independently.

Things to Know Before You Go

Bannerghatta National Park is great for families with young kids.
Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and comfortable shoes.
Book ahead or go with a tour to guarantee a seat in a safari vehicle.

How to Get There

Bannerghatta National Park is located south of Bangalore, about an hour's drive from the city center or an hour and a half by bus. Mysore is a 3-hour drive away, and the park can be visited as a stop off between the two cities, if traveling by car or taxi.

When to Get There

The park is open throughout the year, except Tuesdays. Weekdays can be busy with school groups, while weekends get lots of families. However, the biggest consideration for many travelers is weather. While the climate is generally mild in the region, with warm winters and not-too-hot summers, monsoon rains fall from June through September and can put a literal damper on outdoor activities.

Safaris

Many travelers come here for safaris, and the park offers three different experiences: lion and tiger safaris, bear safaris, or even herbivore safaris, which focus on all sorts of native deer (though you may even spot an elephant). Visitors travel in special secure vehicles and are joined by local guides who are experts in animal spotting.

Karnataka, India

Varies

From $ 62

Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat in Ipoh claims to be Malaysia’s first luxury natural hot springs center. Offering a wide range of wellness facilities and relaxation treatments, the Banjaran’s real star quality is the beautiful natural landscape in which it’s situated. The retreat is characterized by dramatic limestone rocks, gushing waterfalls, geothermal hot springs, and natural caves, plus it’s surrounded by lush rainforest-carpeted hills.

Ideal for both a romantic retreat for couples (they even do weddings) as well as solo travelers, the Banjaran offer Garden Villas and Water Villas to choose from for sleeping, plus a wide range of treatments and relaxing features to help you unwind. At its center is a huge geothermic lake, flanked by a cascading waterfall on one side and natural caves on the other. The shimmering mist of vapor above the lake and the dramatic limestone hill in the background combine to create a natural setting that - like the rest of the resort - is as beautiful as it is enchanting.

Practical Info

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is located at 1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, in the heart of Tambun in Ipoh. It’s around a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.

1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, PK 31150 Ipoh, Malaysia

Daily

Varies

From $ 1,001

Bangkok Cruise Port

Bangkok is one of Asia’s most exciting capital cities, and there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained while in port. Bangkok cruise port is a popular start or end destination for cruises to China, Singapore, and Southeast Asia, welcoming cruise liners from Viking, Windstar, and Silversea, among others.

The Basics

With so much to see and do in Bangkok, most cruise visitors opt for a shore excursion to make the most of their time. Tours typically focus on the highlights, including the Grand Palace, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha; temples, such as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and the Temple of the Golden Buddha; or the gigantic Chatuchak Market, a great place to purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, and street food. Some tours also include lunch at a local restaurant or a scenic cruise around Bangkok’s canals.

Another popular choice for a shore excursion is a visit to the coastal town of Pattaya. The beach resort is just a 30-minute drive from Laem Chabang port.

Things to Know Before You Go

Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
Laem Chabang port has food kiosks, gift shops, a massage spa, and a visitor information center.
With transfer times taking around two hours, full-day shore excursions can last up to 12 hours.

How to Get to Bangkok from the Port of Laem Chabang and Klong Toey

Most cruise ships dock at Laem Chabang, about two hours south of Bangkok. Public transport options from Laem Chabang are limited, so it’s best to prearrange a private transfer or take a taxi. Smaller ships may dock at Klong Toey, located on the Chao Phraya River on the outskirts of the city. For ships docking at Klong Toey, free shuttles often bring passengers into Bangkok—an around 45-minute journey.

Port Information

The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The local currency is the baht. Some shops may accept euros and US dollars, but be sure to check the exchange rate before agreeing on a price. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are generally accepted, although it’s best to carry some cash in smaller denominations, especially for taxis, tuk-tuks, and markets.

Thailand

From $ 121

Bangkok NANTA Theatre

The Bangkok NANTA Theatre stages unique NANTA shows, a non-verbal comedy musical that originated in Korea. Nanta literally means 'to strike relentlessly' in Korean, and this instrumental performance, with a kitchen as its backdrop, uses everything from knives and other utensils to traditional water drums to create a show like no other.

Audiences are taken on an action-packed adventure where performing chefs dazzle and impress, using nonstop percussion, acrobatic cooking styles, and hilarious facial expressions to convey their story.

NANTA made its international debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 1999, where it received the best performance award. Since then, the show has been entertaining audiences worldwide, from cities in Europe to those across Asia, and beyond. The show also made history when it became the first Asian production to open its very own large-scale theater in New York.

Practical Info

The Bangkok NANTA Theatre is located in the RCA Plaza, close to the Petchaburi Road. Nightly performances start at 8pm, with a running time of 90 minutes. Round-trip hotel transport is often included in tours. Alternatively, the venue can be reached by taxi, although be sure to leave enough time as traffic in Bangkok can be exceptionally busy.

31/6 RCA Plaza Building, Floor 1, Soi Soonwijai, Pharam 9 Road, Bangkok, Thailand

Shows at 8pm daily (closed every first of the month)

Royal seat: THB 1300; Standard seat: THB 1100

From $ 14

Bandra-Worli Sea Link

Epic bridges are a hallmark of big cities. From the Golden Gate to the Brooklyn Bridge, these concrete and steel structures have become the icons of urban skylines. India’s expansive Bandra-Worli Sea Link, which connects the western suburbs of Mumbai to the well-heeled neighborhood of Bandra, is no exception.

This eight-lane bridge opened to the public in 2009 and cost some $250 million dollars to construct. But locals say that despite a steep price tag the bridge was worth the expense, since it’s finally possible to escape old road bottlenecks between north and south. Travelers love the epic views that await them as they ascend from the color and chaos of Mumbai into the calm, open road. Colorful lights and cool evening breezes make for an ideal evening drive, but visitors agree it’s still worth a trip any time of day.

Practical Info

Nearly 40,000 vehicles traverse the Bandra-Worli Sea Link each day. Travelers should expect to spend upwards of an hour on the drive from Bandra to Worli during peak hours. Cars are expected to pay a minimal toll to access the bridge.

Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mumbai, India

From $ 50

Bamboo Hanging Bridge

Don’t look down! This thin and wobbly bridge made of woven bamboo is a great thrill, especially for those conquering a fear of heights. Suspended some 131 feet (40 meters) across the murky, green Loboc River in southwestern Bohol, the flexible bridge creaks, bounces and sways with every step as you make your way across. Add a whole family and it’s an experience you’re not soon to forget.

The bridge, originally constructed of just bamboo and rope, was once open to local foot traffic and (eek!) small motorcycles heading in both directions. As a popular tourist attraction, the bridge has since received some safety upgrades: steel cable handles, a 10-person maximum on the bridge, and a second return bridge that ensures traffic is always one-way only. On the other side, vendors sell affordably priced hats, fans, t-shirts and snacks, and the “Buko (Coconut) King” offers his namesake nuts impressively stripped of their husks using his teeth.

Practical Info

The bridge is located in Sevilla, 22 miles (36 km) east of Tagbilaran City on Bohol Island in the Philippines. The bridge connects Sitio Sipatan of Barangay Ewon and Sitio Ilawod of Barangay Lobgob. There’s a $0.50 (25 PHP) roundtrip charge to experience the bridge. The attraction is included on some day tours of Bohol and often coupled with visits to the nearby Tarsier Sanctuary.

Sevilla, Philippines

25 PHP

From $ 60

Bangalore Fort (Kempegowda's Fort)

Also known as Kempegowda's Fort after the founder of Bangalore (Kempe Gowda), this landmark construction was originally built in 1537 out of mud and converted to stone in 1761. It was later captured by the British East India Company in 1791. Today, only two bastions and one gate remain, along with gardens and a Ganesh temple.

The Basics

While much of Bangalore Fort has since gone to ruin, spending time here provides an excellent glimpse of what life was like under the city's famous founder, Kempe Gowda. It’s still a popular stop on many city tours, and going with a guide can help provide some context, especially if you’re interested in understanding how large the fort once was (before parts of it were destroyed to make way for roads and buildings).

Things to Know Before You Go

Bangalore Fort is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers.
Make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat, along with comfortable shoes.
The fort is not suitable for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The fort is located on Krisnarajendra Road in Chamrajpet, a short walk from the City Market and right behind the KR Market Metro station, which connects to Lalbagh Gardens via the Green Line. It's about a 5-minute walk from Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, and the two attractions are often visited together.

When to Get There

Bangalore is a year-round destination, with a moderately warm climate throughout the year, even in the cooler winter months of November through January. Things begin to heat up around April, and temperatures peak in mid-May before the rainfall of the monsoon. Rains continue through August or September, but usually do not bring the city to a halt.

Kempe Gowda and the Birth of Bangalore

Kempe Gowda ruled during the Vijayanagara Empire, which had control over much of present-day South India in the 17th century. According to legend, during a hunting trip he had a vision of a large city, leading him to conquer the surrounding areas and eventually form Bangalore, starting with what was then an 8-gate fort.

Krisnarajendra Road, Chamrajpet, Bangalore, India

Varies

From $ 59

Bandstand Promenade

Every city has its prime people-watching spot, and in Mumbai, that spot is the Bandstand Promenade. Just over a half mile (1 kilometer) long, this stretch of pedestrian walkway hugging the coast has become one of the city’s most popular hangout spots. On any given day, you’ll see locals jogging or relaxing in the park and young couples sneaking in displays of affection away from the prying eyes of parents.

On weekends and evenings, the promenade’s amphitheater hosts concerts and performances, as well as the annual Mumbai Festival and Celebrate Bandra Festival.

Many of Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Shahrukh Khan, own flats just across the road from the promenade. In 2012, a Walk of the Stars opened on the promenade, featuring life-sized brass tributes to Bollywood legends, each likeness lounging on a park bench.

Byramji Jeejeebhoy Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050, India

From $ 46

Banganga Tank

In the heart of Mumbai’s most exclusive district, Banganga Tank is one of the oldest and holiest sites in the city. First built in 1127 AD during the Silhara dynasty, this natural freshwater spring is surrounded by the stone-turreted temples and colorful shrines of Walkeshwar Temple Complex. As you sit on the pool’s surrounding steps, notice the wooden pole which appears like an arrow in the middle of the water. Said to point to the center of the earth, legend has it that, 5,000 years ago, while the Hindu god Ram was searching desperately for his kidnapped wife, Sita, he stopped at this spot and begged his brother Lakshmana for a little water. Lakshmana threw an arrow into the ground, and immediately an eruption of water burst forth.

Said to be a tributary of the Ganges, which flows 1,000 miles away, on a visit to Banganga Tank you may well see religious pilgrims bathing themselves in the spiritual healing waters. An especially good time to visit Banganga Tank is in January, when the annual two-day Banganga Festival celebrates classical music performed by Indian musicians from across the country.

Practical Info

On the southern tip of Malabar Hill, in Walkeshwar Temple Complex, Banganga Tank and the temple complex is around a 10-minute walk from Walkeshwar Bus Depot. Entrance is free, and the holy site is open year-round.

Walkeshwar Road, Mumbai, India

Year-round

From $ 18

Banke Bihari Temple

The 19th-century Banke Bihari—one of India’s most famous temples—in Vrindavan houses an idol of Lord Krishna that devotees believe will cause them to faint if they look into its eyes. As such, the idol is kept behind a curtain that’s swiftly opened and closed, allowing worshipers to catch quick glimpses of the god safely.

The Basics

Worship at this temple, founded by Shri Swami Haridas in 1846, is divided into three different acts of service (sewas) to the deity: Shringar (in which the idol is bathed and dressed); Rajbhog (the feeding of the idol); and Shayan (preparing the idol for sleep). Thousands of devotees visit Banke Bihari—one of many names for Lord Krishna—every day for worship. Most international visitors who come here do so as a stopover between Agra (home of the Taj Mahal) and Delhi, or during day tours from Delhi with stops in Vrindavan.

Things to Know Before You Go

The temple is in a pedestrianized area with lots of little shops and narrow lanes, so be prepared to do some walking.
Watch out for monkeys in the area; they’re known to steal glasses right off of the heads of unsuspecting visitors.
Remember to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
You must remove your footwear before entering the temple.
If you come during Holi, the annual festival of colors held throughout Northern India, be prepared to be covered with powdered colors by passing revelers—and wear clothes you don’t mind ruining.

How to Get There

The Banke Bihari Temple is located in the heart of the holy city of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh, just off the road that runs between Delhi and Agra. It's about a 10-minute drive from Vrindavan’s other major temple attraction, the ISKCON (Hare Krishna) temple, and about a 25-minute drive from the town of Mathura, Vrindavan’s twin city. Many visitors come as part of an organized tour.

When to Get There

The Banke Bihari Temple is open throughout the year, though it's at its busiest around sunset. One of the most auspicious times to visit is for the special aarti (prayer ceremony) on Krishna Janmashtami, usually in September, which marks the birthday of Lord Krishna.

Lord Krishna

Lord Krishna is one of the most recognizable—and most loved—Hindu deities, and many believe that he once lived in the Vrindavan-Mathura area. An avatar of the preserver god Vishnu, Krishna is depicted in various forms. His skin is usually a light blue and he’s often depicted with playing a flute. He’s also sometimes shown as a plump baby with his hand in a butter jar (owing to a legend about him stealing butter).

Mathura District, Vrindavan, India

From $ 47

Bang Pa-In Palace

The Bang Pa-In Palace is situated 60 kilometers from Bangkok and just a few kilometers from Ayutthaya. Originally built in the 17th century by King Prasat Thong of Ayutthaya, it was later destroyed by the Burmese and left abandoned for almost a century.

During the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV) in the 1850s, part of the palace was restored, but most of the site seen today is down to his predecessor, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who restored and expanded the entire grounds. Today the palace is still used by the Thai royal family as a summer residence.

The iconic buildings scattered across the complex each feature their own unique architectural style. For example, the Wehat Chamroon Palace was built using traditional Chinese materials and designs, while the Aisawan Tippaya Asna Pavilion, set in the middle of a lake, is typically Thai. Other buildings are clearly European in architectural style.

Practical Info

If not on a day tour, visitors can reach Bang Pa-In by train from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok, or by catching one of the regular buses that departs from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Moh Chit). The Bang Pa-In Palace is open from 8:30am until 5pm, although the ticket office closes at 3:30pm. The entrance fee is currently 100 Baht.

Highway 308 Ban Len, Bang Pa-In 13160, Thailand

100 Baht

From $ 12

Bangkok Chinatown (Yaowarat)

With its heady smorgasbord of street food, gold merchants, wooden shophouses, and ancient Chinese temples, there’s never a dull moment in Bangkok’s Chinatown, also known as Yaowarat. Exploring the bustling sois (side streets) of the city’s oldest district is a must on any trip to the Thai capital.

The Basics

Bangkok Chinatown envelops the streets and alleys branching off Yaowarat Road, its main thoroughfare. Since the area transforms into a food street after dark, many visitors choose to explore it on a walking food tour. Those more interested in the history and heritage of Bangkok’s Chinese immigrants can opt for a daytime biking tour or walking tour to visit the area’s Buddhist temples and neighborhood markets.

Things to Know Before You Go

Bangkok Chinatown is a must-see for foodies and first-time visitors.
Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to walk; there’s a lot to see in this busy neighborhood.
Most Chinatown tours include a bit of shopping, eating, and temple visits.
Walking and biking tours that include Chinatown typically last three to five hours.

How to Get There

The easiest way to reach Chinatown is by boat; alight at Ratchawong Pier and walk up Ratchawong Road until you get to Sampeng Lane or Yaowarat Road. You can also disembark at Harbor Department Pier or Memorial Bridge Pier. Alternatively, take the subway to Hua Lamphong Station on the eastern bank of the Phadung Krung Kasem Canal.

When to Get There

To get the most comprehensive Chinatown experience, plan to visit by day and after dark. Plan to arrive hungry at night, when the street-food stalls are in full swing. The neighborhood is at its most vibrant during major Chinese festivals, especially Chinese New Year (January or February).

Must-Try Foods in Chinatown

Food is one of the major reasons for a visit to Chinatown. Seafood restaurants here serve some of the freshest crabs and prawns in the city, while street-food vendors cook up grilled squid, Thai toast, kway chap (a peppery noodle soup), pad thai, and bird’s nest soup.

Thanon Yaowarat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand

Free

From $ 11

Bangrak

Hugging the Chao Phraya River and home to some of the city’s best hotels, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, Bangkok’s Bangrak is a blend of international and local culture. Particularly famous for the commercial shopping district around Silom Road, Bangrak covers a huge area, although most locals usually consider it to be the area surrounding the river.

Aside from its shopping centers and high-rise hotels, Bangrak is home to a number of attractions, including the Bangkok Folk Museum, plus the religious sites of Wat Hua Lamphong and the famous Hindu temple, Sri Mahamariamman.

The area between the Saphan Taksin Skytrain station and the junction of Charoen Krung and Silom Road is well worth a stroll along. It’s a teeming melting pot of local life and home to a number of hawker food stalls serving delicious and traditional local cuisine.

Practical Info

Bangrak is served well by both Bangkok’s Skytrain and Metro lines. Skytrain stations include Sala Daeng, Chong Nonsi, Surasak, and Saphan Taksin. Metro stations include Lumphini, Silom, and Sam Yan. Bangrak can also be reached by river via the Chao Phraya Express Boat.

Bang Rak, Bangkok, Thailand

From $ 50

Ban Mae Sa Mai Village

One of the most fascinating and enriching aspects of traveling to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of some of the local hill tribes. The Hmong, believed to be the first inhabitants of the Yellow River Valley in China, are today one of the most successful tribes in Thailand, and Ban Mae Sa Mai Village is one of the most accessible Hmong villages from Chiang Mai.

Only reachable via four-wheel vehicles, the mountain village is somewhat of a step back in time, as local residents often don their traditional garb and demonstrate to visitors what day to day life is like in a Hmong village. Since the village is frequented by tourists, the village houses a few shops selling Hmong handicrafts.

Practical Info

While it’s possible to visit Ban Mae Sa Mai Village on a day trip from Chiang Mai, it’s also possible to stay in the night in the area to give you more time to explore the village and surrounding forests.

Thailand

From $ 49

Bangalore Palace (Bengaluru Palace)

Among the most stunning landmarks in the city, Bangalore Palace is one of many homes of the Wadiyar family, who ruled much of South India for centuries. Portions of this palace have been open to the public since 2005, though one of the Wadiyars still lives in a private wing of the gargantuan structure to this day.

The Basics

Spread out on more than 450 acres (182 hectares), including a large landscaped garden, this huge palace complex is one of the most popular attractions in Bangalore and a frequent stop on cultural tours. It features an impressive mix of Tudor, Gothic, Victorian, and neoclassical architectural elements.

Visitors are allowed access to a large part of the palace, including gloriously decorated bedrooms, royal halls, and a ballroom. It also houses one of Bangalore's first elevators, which is operated by hand.

Things to Know Before You Go

An audio tour is included with admission.
Travelers must pay extra if they want to use their cameras.
A visit to Bangalore Palace is an excellent choice for history buffs and architecture lovers.
Wheelchair users might find it challenging to get around the palace.

How to Get There

Bangalore Palace is located on the Palace Grounds, off Jayamahal Road in the Vasanth Nagar area, about a 20-minute walk from the Bangalore Cantonment railway station. Getting to Cubbon Park takes around 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or auto rickshaw, traffic permitting, while Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and Bangalore Fort take about a half-hour to reach by car.

When to Get There

Bangalore Palace is a year-round destination, though it’s partially outside so weather might be a consideration for some visitors. Bangalore’s climate is pleasant throughout the year, with mild winters and slightly cooler summers than many parts of the subcontinent. The monsoon rains that start in early June and continue through August or September can make getting around a bit of a soggy experience, while October through March tend to be cooler and drier.

Concerts at the Palace

For many years, the palace grounds doubled as a concert venue, with huge international acts, such as Elton John, The Prodigy, Guns N' Roses, Metallica, and even the Rolling Stones, performing here. However, the grounds stopped hosting concerts in 2012 due to legal issues, leaving the city without a venue capable of hosting huge crowds. Whether the palace will eventually open up again for concerts or not remains unclear.

Bangalore, India

Varies

From $ 33