A sub-region of Asia, and famous for its trade in fruit and vegetation, South Asia has a wide list of experiences to offer. It’s almost always confused with Southeast Asia too but recently has been gaining popularity by professional travelers, budget travelers, backpackers, anthropological enthusiasts, and even hikers for its historic places, traditional landscape, Karakoram and Hindukush Mountain range, and the infamous the then sub-continent which now forms part India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
With a diverse pack of countries including Nepal, Srilanka, Pakistan, India, Bhutan, Maldives, and some more, the region offers some of the best travel destinations in South Asia, especially for those who wish to indulge in a culturally diverse experience.
Some of our top picks for if you are planning a trip within South Asia, but not limited to India, are:
Galle, Srilanka
Only at a distance of a two-hour car ride from Colombo, Galle is nothing short of a paradise. It’s an ancient trading port with the original architect still pretty intact. The 17th-century seafront fort is the main attraction, and the destination is frequented for both luxury and budget-friendly travel.
The area is pretty much car-free, especially the Galle Fort. The city is surrounded by amazing beaches that welcome tourists with sun-soaking warmth and turquoise water.
Mohenjo-Daro, Pakistan
Situated in the Sindh province of Pakistan, the ruins of Mohenjo-Daro is a historic reminder of one of the largest city of the Indus civilization. The name itself translates to “the mound of the dead” as the ruins of the civilization were found during the excavation process in 1922.
It earned the prestige title of being a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980 and these facts are some of the many mesmerizing reasons as to why this site is a must-visit, and one of the best travel destinations in South Asia if you are touring within Pakistan.
Pokhara, Nepal
If you are a hiker, or even wish to explore the wilds of the mountains, this one is for you! Pokhara is one of the top tourist destinations for hikers and is surrounded by some of the world’s highest mountain peaks: Annapurna I, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri.
It’s the getaway to the Himalayas and is pretty much a big city that does offer a balanced experience of nature and city life. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to relax, unplug, enjoy food and soothing scenery, and recharge.
Reethi Rah, Maldives
The Maldives is home to some of the best most magnificent beaches, and even within the Maldives, Reethi Rah is the island that hides within some of the world’s most breathtaking coastal spots.
Set on a three-and-a-half-mile coast, it offers 12 hidden beaches that make Maldives one of the best travel destinations in South Asia and for all the right reasons. Many villas offer private access, but one can also visit for the day for beach hopping via a short boat ride from Male.
Yala National Park, Srilanka
From mesmerizing views, metropolitan structures, clubbing, and wildlife, the country has everything to offer! Yala National Park is another of Srilankan gems and its main attraction is the leopard safari.
Leopards are a dying species and the park has been reserved as a wildlife reserve for leopards. The park is home to varying ecosystems as well, and if you are there, don’t forget to check out the Buddhist shrines and temples within Yala.
What Did You Decide?
Whether you follow this list or not, South Asia is an increasingly appreciated travel destination and home to many hidden natural gems.
There is beauty in each of its countries; whilst some follow a mysterious birth, some are born under political circumstances, some parts of it is home to Buddhists and monks, and some carry within ancient civilization, one thing for sure is that there are plenty of best travel destinations in South Asia for backpackers and budget travelers.
It's not only a growing tourist region attracting travelers from all places including Europe, Russia, Australia, and even America, but also offers a culturally diverse experience even within each country.
So whether you plan your trip around the most attractive destinations in South Asia, or choose to explore a country within the region, you are guaranteed a lifetime experience of endless culture, amazing food, varying landscape within the same geography, and plentiful memories.
Good luck and travel safe!
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- South Asia budget travel
- South Asia tour tips
- Budget travel tips
- Cheap tour South Asia
