Recently. Tripadvisor has chosen the top 25 best travel destinations in Asia.
On top of the list is Siem Riep, Cambodia.
And Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is ranked # 23 out of 25.
Thailand has the most travel destinations in the top 25 - a whopping 5 of them - or 25% of the total.
India takes 4 spots, followed by Japan & Vietnam with both having 3 destinations each in the top 25 best travel destinations in Asia.
Here is the top 25 best travel destinations in Asia according to Tripadvisor arranged by Country:
5 Spots
Thailand : Bangkok (#4), Kathu (Phuket) (#11), Krabi Town (#12), Chiang Mai (#14), Bophut (Koh Samui) (#15)
4 Spots
India : New Delhi (#8), Jaipur (#13), Goa (#20), Mumbai (#25)
3 Spots
Vietnam : Hanoi (#2), Hoi An (#10), Ho Chi Minh City (#18)
Japan : Tokyo (#6), Kyoto (#19), Osaka (#24)
2 Spots
China : Beijing (#16), Shanghai (#21)
1 Spot
Cambodia : Siem Riep (#1)
Indonesia : Ubud (#3)
Hong Kong : Hong Kong City (#5)
Nepal : Kathmandu (#7)
Taiwan : Taipei (#9)
Singapore : Singapore (#17)Korea : Seoul (#22)
Malaysia : Kuala Lumpur (#23)
Because I'm a marathon runner, when I travel, I like to coincide my travel with local marathon events. This way, I get to see the local culture, experience the country even more. :)
So far, I have run full marathons in 5 of the top 25 travel destinations: Chiang Mai, Bali, Taipei, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur (of course! own city!). And I look forward to run more marathons in other listed destinations as well, in particular Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Siem Riep, Bangkok and Seoul. :)
I have done some study and I'm listing down some recommended marathons at the most of the Top 25 best destinations in Asia according to Tripadvisor. I'm focusing on 42 km road running. I am not listing down any trail runs or ultras.
So when you plan your next trip, do consider running marathons there yeah. :)
Surely you will enjoy it!
01. Siem Riep, Cambodia
"When the morning light washes over the overgrown temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, a simple Siem Reap sunrise becomes a profound event. The ancient structures are contained within one of the largest religious complexes in the world. The complex and the 12th century Angkor Thom royal city are considered the main reasons to visit Siem Reap. Get a lesson in national history at the Cambodian Cultural Village, and a lesson in bargaining at the Angkor Night Market, a bonanza of shopping stalls, food vendors, and bars." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Angkor Empire Half and Full Marathon
When : August
Website : http://www.angkorempiremarathon.org/
02. Hanoi, Vietnam
"The charming Vietnamese capital has aged well, preserving the Old Quarter, monuments and colonial architecture, while making room for modern developments alongside. Hanoi may have shrugged off several former names, including Thang Long, or "ascending dragon," but it hasn't forgotten its past, as sites such as Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and Hoa Lo Prison attest. Lakes, parks, shady boulevards and more than 600 temples and pagodas add to the appeal of this city, which is easily explored by taxi." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathons
I couldn't find any major marathon in Hanoi. Below are 2 marathons close by Hanoi.
Name : Danang International Marathon
When : August
Website : http://www.rundanang.com/
Name : Halong Bay Heritage Marathon
When : August
Website : http://halongmarathon.com/
03. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
"The village cluster of Ubud is the ideal place to try a famed Balinese massage and soak up the ambiance of one of Asia’s top spa destinations. Acupressure, reflexology, stretching and aromatherapy star in the island's distinctively firm massage treatments. Ubud is also the vivacious center of Bali’s arts scene, home to a small treasure trove of museums and galleries. Monkey around at nearby nature reserve Monkey Forest Park, home to hundreds of mischievous long-tailed macaques. Don’t miss the valley of tomb cloisters at Gunung Kawi." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Maybank Bali Marathon
When : August
Website : http://www.balimarathon.com/
04. Bangkok, Thailand
"Golden palaces, floating markets, majestic porcelain-laid spires…you've never seen a capital city quite like Bangkok. Visit Pratunam or Siam Square for premium shopping, then unwind in the European-style gardens of Dusit. Thon Buri is home to the awesome Wat Arun temple, and over in Phra Nakhon, you’ll find the Wat Pho temple of the Reclining Buddha. Savor mango sticky rice at a food stall before taking in the gilded splendor of the Grand Palace." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Standard Chartered Bangkok Marathon
When : November
Website : http://www.bkkmarathon.com/eng/
05. Hong Kong City, Hong Kong
"Delectable dim sum, floating islands, and a one-of-a-kind skyline are just some of Hong Kong’s unique features. Get an eyeful of traditional Chinese architecture in Ngong Ping village, then take the tram to the tippity-top of Victoria Peak for unparalleled views. The rocks and gentle hills of Nan Lian Garden will bring you inner peace, as will a calming cup of tea in a Stanley café. Become one with everything at the Chi Lin Nunnery, a serene Buddhist complex." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon
When : February
Website : http://www.hkmarathon.com/
06. Tokyo, Japan
"Tradition collides with pop culture in Tokyo, where you can reverently wander ancient temples before rocking out at a karaoke bar. Wake up before the sun to catch the lively fish auction at the Tsukiji Market, then refresh with a walk beneath the cherry blossom trees that line the Sumida River. Spend some time in the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, then brush up on your Japanese history at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Don’t forget to eat as much sushi, udon noodles, and wagashi (Japanese sweets) as your belly can handle." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Tokyo Marathon
When : February
Website : http://www.marathon.tokyo/en/
07. Kathmandu, Nepal
"Nepal’s capital is surrounded by a valley full of historic sites, ancient temples, shrines, and fascinating villages. Mingle with locals and animals amid Durbar Square’s monuments, or join mountain trekkers in the bustling Thamel District. Explore shops for exquisite work by local artisans—carpets and paper prints are specialties." (Source: TripAdvisor)
08. New Delhi, India
"New Delhi is all at once chaotic and calm, a complicated city where cows often wander the shanty-lined streets. The 17th century Red Fort is a mass of domes and turrets, while Chandni Chowk is an exercise in friendly haggling. Jantar Mantar features larger-than-life sundials and astronomical instruments that are still used to predict the weather. Travelers and locals flock to the India Gate, the national monument of India that honors the soldiers who died in World War I and the Third Afghan War." (Source: TripAdvisor)
"New Delhi is all at once chaotic and calm, a complicated city where cows often wander the shanty-lined streets. The 17th century Red Fort is a mass of domes and turrets, while Chandni Chowk is an exercise in friendly haggling. Jantar Mantar features larger-than-life sundials and astronomical instruments that are still used to predict the weather. Travelers and locals flock to the India Gate, the national monument of India that honors the soldiers who died in World War I and the Third Afghan War." (Source: TripAdvisor)
09. Taipei, Taiwan
"You can eat very well—and very cheaply—in Taipei. The restaurants may not look posh, but the quality of the food is superlative. And there’s a huge variety of restaurants—in addition to local Taiwanese specialties, you’ll find regional cuisines from all over China, as well as great Indian, Japanese and even Italian options. Just make sure to leave some room for snacks—street-vendor food here is addictive." (Source: TripAdvisor)
"You can eat very well—and very cheaply—in Taipei. The restaurants may not look posh, but the quality of the food is superlative. And there’s a huge variety of restaurants—in addition to local Taiwanese specialties, you’ll find regional cuisines from all over China, as well as great Indian, Japanese and even Italian options. Just make sure to leave some room for snacks—street-vendor food here is addictive." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Taipei Marathon When : December
Website : https://www.sportsnet.org.tw
Name : Taipei Standard Chartered Marathon
When : January
Website : http://www.scbmarathon.com/eng/
10. Hoi An, Vietnam
"This city on the central Vietnamese coast is a well-preserved example of the important Southeast Asian trading port it was from the 15th-19th centuries. Already a common stop for backpackers, it is becoming better known to tourists. On the 14th day of each lunar month, the town trades its electric lights for traditional colored lanterns. Sights include the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Quan Cong Temple. Let the town’s expert tailors make you some bespoke clothing." (Source: TripAdvisor)
"This city on the central Vietnamese coast is a well-preserved example of the important Southeast Asian trading port it was from the 15th-19th centuries. Already a common stop for backpackers, it is becoming better known to tourists. On the 14th day of each lunar month, the town trades its electric lights for traditional colored lanterns. Sights include the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Quan Cong Temple. Let the town’s expert tailors make you some bespoke clothing." (Source: TripAdvisor)
11. Kathu (Phuket), Thailand
Kathu is the smallest of the 3 districts that make up Phuket. It covers the central part of the island from the west of Phuket Town to Patong and Kamala Beaches. It is home to a handful attraction and recreations such as Kathy Waterfall, Loch Palm and Red Mountain Gold Club, Phuket COuntry CLub and Phuket Wake Park. The famous Phuket Vegetarian Festival originated from here as well.
Recommended Marathon
Name : Laguna Phuket International Marathon
When : June
Website : http://phuketmarathon.com/
12. Krabi Town, Thailand
"The southern Thailand town of Krabi serves as base camp for exploring the province of the same name, a lush region of jungles, limestone cliffs and idyllic isles floating just offshore in the Andaman Sea. Buddhist shrines still used by local monks are tucked into the chambers of the town's top attraction, Tiger Cave. The riverside pier links travelers with ferries and longboats to the best scuba diving, rock climbing and white sand beaches on the coast." (Source: TripAdvisor)
"The southern Thailand town of Krabi serves as base camp for exploring the province of the same name, a lush region of jungles, limestone cliffs and idyllic isles floating just offshore in the Andaman Sea. Buddhist shrines still used by local monks are tucked into the chambers of the town's top attraction, Tiger Cave. The riverside pier links travelers with ferries and longboats to the best scuba diving, rock climbing and white sand beaches on the coast." (Source: TripAdvisor)
13. Jaipur, India
"If you take one look at the glorious stucco buildings that line Jaipur's wide streets, you'll understand why this is nicknamed "The Pink City." Spend your days exploring City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Amber and Jaigarh forts. And if you're looking for a unique souvenir, head to one of the bazaars, where you can pick up a pair of camel-leather slippers." (Source: TripAdvisor)
"If you take one look at the glorious stucco buildings that line Jaipur's wide streets, you'll understand why this is nicknamed "The Pink City." Spend your days exploring City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Amber and Jaigarh forts. And if you're looking for a unique souvenir, head to one of the bazaars, where you can pick up a pair of camel-leather slippers." (Source: TripAdvisor)
14. Chiang Mai, Thailand
"You could spend your whole Chiang Mai vacation exploring the famous Night Bazaar. Once you’ve exhausted the art of the cheerful haggle, however, there’s plenty more to explore. The National Museum and Botanic Garden are great places to soak up some local culture and to breathe in the delicate fragrance of Thai orchids. In the city’s center, the remains of ancient walls embrace over 30 temples. Limber travelers can climb 300 stairs to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, an ornate Buddhist temple in the hills." (Source: TripAdvisor)
"You could spend your whole Chiang Mai vacation exploring the famous Night Bazaar. Once you’ve exhausted the art of the cheerful haggle, however, there’s plenty more to explore. The National Museum and Botanic Garden are great places to soak up some local culture and to breathe in the delicate fragrance of Thai orchids. In the city’s center, the remains of ancient walls embrace over 30 temples. Limber travelers can climb 300 stairs to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, an ornate Buddhist temple in the hills." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Chiangmai Marathon
When : December
Website : http://www.chiangmaimarathon.com/
15. Bophut, Koh Samui Island, Thailand
"Learn to dive, sunbathe on a sandy beach or indulge in inexpensive spa services (including amazing Thai massages) in Bophut, a beach village that recently has become home to many new hotels and villas. Try the main street for trendy shops and restaurants, or visit the Fisherman’s Village for more traditional shops." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Koh Samui International Marathon
When : December
Website : http://www.runthailand.com/thailand-running-events-2016/
16. Beijing, China
"Welcome to a capital city whose story goes back at least 3000 years. In Beijing, you'll find a wealth of history, both ancient (the Hall of Preserving Harmony, Summer Palace, Forbidden City) and more recent (Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, Tiananmen Square). For the best market experience, choose the Dirt Market over the touristy Silk Market. A visit to the Great Wall, the longest manmade structure in the world, is absolutely essential." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Beijing Marathon
When : September
Website : http://www.beijing-marathon.com/en/
Name : Great Wall Marathon
When : May
Website : http://great-wall-marathon.com/
17. Singapore, Singapore
"The Singapore cityscape looks like it was ripped from the pages of a science fiction comic book. If you’re hungry for a true Singapore experience, sample the myriad street foods or take a cultural cooking class. The Botanic Gardens and the Gardens By the Bay offer a slice of horticultural heaven, and the observation deck of the Sands SkyPark makes you feel like you’re high above the clouds. The banks and walkways along the Singapore River bustle with local activity." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore
When : December
Website : http://www.marathonsingapore.com/
18. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
"Vietnam's bustling largest city sets the cultural and economic pace for the country. The former Saigon boasts charming French colonial architecture and wide boulevards, usually thronged and choked with traffic. Taxis are an option for seeing the sprawling city. The War Remnants Museum shows the Vietnam War through Vietnamese eyes. Don't miss the impressive Jade Emperor Pagoda. Go to the frenetic Ben Thanh Market for food, flowers or frogs. Tour through the Mekong Delta, past rice paddies and houseboats." (Source: TripAdvisor)
19. Kyoto, Japan
"The shrines and temples of Kyoto offer a rare link between modern life in the city and its very ancient past. The Shimogamo Shrine dates to the 6th century and seems suspended in time, its serenity and spiritual power still palpable. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, then see the life-sized Thousand Armed Kannon statues of Sanjūsangen-dō. Enjoy traditional geisha performances, then savor a tranquil meal at a restaurant overlooking the Kamo River." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Kyoto Marathon
When : February
Website : http://www.kyoto-marathon.com/en/
20. Goa, India
"The sandy coast of Goa is perfect for reclining by the sea. Nestle into a cushioned chair at a beach shack and savor a curry while you sip a Kingfisher beer, watching the sun slip lazily below the horizon. In Old Goa, the beautiful Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of baroque architecture. Visit during Christmastime to experience a fantastic religious and cultural mash-up of East and West." (Source: TripAdvisor)
21. Shanghai, China
"The largest city in China is also its most cosmopolitan, offering visitors a chance to experience the past, present, and future all at once. The Huangpu River splits Shanghai into two districts: Pudong and Puxi. The Pudong skyline looks like it was ripped from the Jetsons, with the bulbous Oriental Pearl TV and Radio Tower looking a bit like a two headed lollipop. On the Puxi side, you can walk the Bund riverside district to get a taste of old Shanghai." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Shanghai International Marathon
When : November
Website : http://www.shmarathon.com/home.dhtml
22. Seoul, South Korea
"Seoul is the business and cultural hub of South Korea, where skyscrapers tower over Buddhist temples. Take it all in from the N Seoul Tower, built atop a peak in Namsan Park. The teahouses and shops of Insadong give you a taste of Korean flavor, which you can further experience with a visit to the grounds and museums of Gyeongbokgung. UNESCO World Heritage Site Changdeokgung Palace is a fine example of authentic ancient architecture." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Seoul International Marathon
When : March
Website : http://seoul-marathon.com/
23. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"The cultural hub of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is visually defined by the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, which, at 88 stories high, are the tallest twin buildings in the world and a vision of modern architecture. On the flip side, the Sri Mahamariamman is the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia, its façade a colorful totem pole of iconography. Shopping at the Central Market is a joyful experience that involves haggling, handicrafts, and happiness." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon
When : August
Website : http://www.kl-marathon.com/
24. Osaka, Japan
"Home to nearly nine million and powering an economy that exceeds both Hong Kong's and Thailand's, Osaka packs quite a punch. The confident, stylish city is a shopping hub, with fabulous restaurants and nightlife. It's an ideal base for exploring the Kansai region; Kyoto's World Heritage Sites, Nara's temple and Koya-san's eerie graves are within 90 minutes by train. Top city attractions include the aquarium, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan and the futuristic Floating Garden Observatory." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Recommended Marathon
Name : Osaka Marathon
When : April
Website : https://www.osaka-marathon.com/index_en.html
25. Mumbai (Bombay), India
"Though Mumbai can feel chaotic and crowded, there are peaceful moments to be found here. Nibble a paper cone of bhelpuri while you stroll the sands of Chowpatty Beach. Then, take a short walk to Mani Bhavan, where Mahatma Gandhi once lived, strategized, and was ultimately arrested. The markets are spirited places to bargain for spices or souvenirs. Take a guided tour of Dharavi – made famous by "Slumdog Millionaire" – for an eye-opening glimpse into what Mumbai life is like for nearly a million people." (Source: TripAdvisor)
Written on 2016.04.18
