Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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Bugis Street
One of the most famous shopping areas in Singapore, Bugis street is the home of some 800 busy shops, but it is perhaps the history there which makes it one of the more interesting landmarks in the country.
In the 1950s, Bugis Street gained notoriety as a place where transgendered locals would come down to hang out, driving a tourism boom that made it ideal for grabbing some push-cart, or hawker, food while enjoying a variety of inexpensive merchandise.
Today, the area is much more tamed and where the retail scene is still very much alive, but less of a scandalous place than it once was. Nonetheless, visitors still enjoy going to Bugis to listen about the history as well as get their hands on great local foods, candy and some of the most fashionable clothes in Singapore.
In the 1950s, Bugis Street gained notoriety as a place where transgendered locals would come down to hang out, driving a tourism boom that made it ideal for grabbing some push-cart, or hawker, food while enjoying a variety of inexpensive merchandise.
Today, the area is much more tamed and where the retail scene is still very much alive, but less of a scandalous place than it once was. Nonetheless, visitors still enjoy going to Bugis to listen about the history as well as get their hands on great local foods, candy and some of the most fashionable clothes in Singapore.
Address: Singapore
From $ 25
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves are among the most beautiful, historically significant attractions in Mumbai. Situated on an island off the coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features multiple rock-hewn cave temples and statues dating back to around the 7th century AD, including a celebrated statue of Shiva in his three-faced form.
The Basics
There are two groups of caves at the site: one featuring five caves dedicated to Hindu deities, and a second group with two Buddhist shrines. While there's a lot of debate about the true origins of the caves, there are elements of South Indian Badami Chalukya architecture as well as architectural styles from the Gupta Empire.
Many city tours come to the island, and going with a guide can help you make sense of the caves, as the signage here isn’t the greatest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Elephanta Caves are a must-visit for those with an interest in history, art, or religion.
- Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.
- Beware of naughty monkeys, particularly on the stairs leading up to the attraction.
- This attraction is not suitable for those with compromised mobility, and accessing it requires climbing lots of steps.
How to Get There
Elephanta Island is located in the Mumbai Harbour, about 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) northeast of the Gateway of India monument, from which boats to the attraction depart. Once on the island, travelers can take a miniature train up to a tall, steep set of stairs that lead up to the monument.
When to Get There
The caves are open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30am to 5:30pm. It's best to get there first thing in the morning to beat crowds and hot temperatures, but if you come in the evening, try to get on the last boat of the day, when things have quieted down. Note that visiting during monsoon season may make for a choppier boat ride to the island and back.
Monkey Business
You may see lots of monkeys while on the island (and all over India, in general, especially in rural areas). On Elephanta Island, you’re most likely to encounter them on the stairs leading up to the monument, and they can be aggressive and carry disease. Do not feed them, and keep an eye on any possessions you may have, from food to the eyeglasses on your head, as they are known to pickpocket the inattentive.
Address: India
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park is an urban oasis within the boundaries of Seoul. The park covers nearly 50 square miles (129 square kilometers) and contains hiking trails, sweeping mountaintop views, and streams rushing between gorges and granite peaks. Bukhansanseong Fortress and many Buddhist temples are also set here.
The Basics
Bukhansan National Park is a haven for hikers, climbers, and anyone looking to escape the bustle of South Korea’s capital city. Explore the park’s many hiking trails, climb Baegundae (Bukhansan’s highest peak), or visit the centuries-old Bukhansanseong Fortress.
Tours of Bukhansan National Park typically leave from Seoul and include a guided hike of Mt. Bukhan, plus a relaxing visit to a Korean-style spa or sauna (jjimjilbang). It’s also possible to visit the park on a contemporary art tour of Seoul, which usually includes a drive up Bukhansan Mountain to Gana Art Gallery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bukhansan National Park is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Bring sun protection, plenty of water, and shoes suitable for hiking; much of the park is unsuitable for wheelchairs.
- The granite mountains can be slippery when wet; be careful if it has rained recently.
- Fans of rock climbing should check out Insubong peak, which has climbing routes for various skill levels.
How to Get There
Bukhansan National Park is located in northern Seoul and is easily accessible via public transportation. Take Seoul Subway Line 1 to Dobongsan Station right at the park.
When to Get There
The park is open year-round but is especially beautiful in fall when the plentiful maple trees’ leaves turn shades of gold and red. Opt for a weekday visit to avoid crowds.
Trails in Bukhansan National Park
The park’s most popular hiking routes include the trail to the 2,746-foot (837-meter) Baegundae peak, the Insu-bong trail, the Mt. Bukhan hike, and the 43-mile (70-kilometer) Dulle Gil Trail, which connects forested paths along foothills and local villages and contains 21 sections.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 55
Chan See Shu Yuen Temple
Chan See Shu Yuen Temple sits on Jalan Petaling in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, and is one of the largest and oldest Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Built at the turn of the 20th century, this elaborate temple makes an impact upon first sight, with its intricately carved roof and terracotta friezes depicting mythological Chinese scenes. Inside are colorful paintings, wood carvings, and ceramic lamps. The interior of the main hall features pillars adorned with scenes of warriors battling lions, dragons, and other mythical creatures. Behind a glass wall, there are statues of the temple's three main deities, and above these, a mural of a bright golden sun.
Most tours of Kuala Lumpur include a trip to the city’s vibrant Chinatown, situated around Jalan Petaling. Choose from a range of options, including a half- or full-day walking tour of the city, with lunch and round-trip transportation.
Insider’s Tip: While you’re in the area, combine your visit to Chan See Shu Yuen with another of the city’s elaborate and iconic temples, such as the Hindu Sri Mahamariamman Temple, located in the neighboring street.
Practical Info
The Chan See Shu Yuen Temple is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. You can reach the attraction via train, alighting at Pasar Seni LRT station. The temple is open 8am to 6pm daily.
Address: 72 Jalan Petaling, Kuala Lumpur 50000, Malaysia
Hours: 8am–6pm
From $ 20
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
Since its opening in 2000, the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel has become one of Shanghai’s most popular attractions among domestic tourists. Contrary to what the name would have you believe, you won’t be seeing any of the Bund’s sights when you ride the automated subway car from the Bund beneath the Huangpu River to Pudong on the other side.
This rather bewildering by nonetheless entertaining trip takes less than five minutes, and along the way, you’ll experience a bizarre LED light show with menacing sound effects and random flailing blowup dolls to complete the trippy experience. If you need to get across the river, taking a cab might be the cheaper option, but the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel is certainly more entertaining, if not perplexing.
This rather bewildering by nonetheless entertaining trip takes less than five minutes, and along the way, you’ll experience a bizarre LED light show with menacing sound effects and random flailing blowup dolls to complete the trippy experience. If you need to get across the river, taking a cab might be the cheaper option, but the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel is certainly more entertaining, if not perplexing.
Address: Shanghai, China
Admission: One-way: 45 RMB; Round-trip: 55 RMB
From $ 31
Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)
Known alternately as Besant Nagar Beach, or “Bessie” for short, Elliot's Beach sits at the south end of the Marina Beach shore. A former expatriate enclave during Chennai’s colonial era, today, the beach attracts a crowd of twenty somethings, as well as families looking to avoid the crowds at the more popular Marina Beach.
While you won't find water sports along this stretch of sand, what you will find are beautiful ocean views and several architectural landmarks, including Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church, as well as an array of snack stalls and restaurants serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Another interesting landmark, the Karl Schmidt Memorial, honors a Dutch sailor who died while saving a swimmer from drowning.
While you won't find water sports along this stretch of sand, what you will find are beautiful ocean views and several architectural landmarks, including Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church, as well as an array of snack stalls and restaurants serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Another interesting landmark, the Karl Schmidt Memorial, honors a Dutch sailor who died while saving a swimmer from drowning.
Practial Info
Elliot’s Beach is located 37 miles (60 kilometers) south of Chennai.
Address: Chennai, India
From $ 57
Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Hiking Trail)
Don’t be deterred by the name Elephant Mountain. A relatively easy climb takes you to the top of a hill that affords panoramic views of Taipei. Nestled among other rolling green hills, Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Hiking Trail) is indisputably the best place in Taipei to enjoy a sunset over the capital’s skyline.
The Basics
Evening tours of Taipei usually stop at Elephant Mountain, where—even if you only ascend halfway—you can still enjoy great views of Taipei. The trail is well-lit and supported by handrails. At the summit, there are six giant rocks where you can perch for an epic photograph with the skyline behind you, or walk a little past the rocks and you’ll find a far less crowded viewing platform.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Use plenty of insect repellent before you climb Elephant Mountain, because there are lots of mosquitoes at the top.
- For travelers of a moderate fitness level, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the top.
- This is a must-visit for the best views of the Taipei skyline.
- Take a bottle of water for the ascent. At the bottom of the trail, there is a water fountain where you can refill.
How to Get There
From central Taipei, take the red line on the MRT to Xiangshan station, which is the final stop. From there, the base of Elephant Mountain is clearly signposted. If you want to walk from Taipei 101, you can do so in about 15 minutes.
When to Get There
The best time to hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Hiking Trail) is in the late afternoon, so that you can enjoy daytime city views, see the sunset, and then watch Taipei burst into a thousand lights. During the weekend, the trail can be crowded, so try to visit during the week if possible.
The Four Beasts of Taipei
Elephant Mountain is one of the Four Beasts, a name that refers to the four hills on the outskirts of Taipei. If you’re an avid hiker, you can challenge yourself to do a full-day hike of all Four Beasts: From the mountain summit, a trail continues for a few hours and reveals a Buddhist garden and an entirely different part of the city.
Address: Lane 150, Songren Rd., Xinyi District, Taipei, Taiwan
From $ 30
Bull Temple (Dodda Ganeshana Gudi)
The Bull Temple (Dodda Ganeshana Gudi) was built in the 16th century in typical South Indian Dravidian style, and is one of Bangalore’s oldest temples. The locals call it “Dodda Basavana Gudi” (Big Bull Temple), named after the gigantic 15-foot high and 20-foot long statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull.
Visitors to the temple first pay their respects to Ganesh, the elephant-headed god at the base of the hill before climbing the many steps to worship the huge monolithic statue of Nandi at the top. Carved from a single enormous slab of granite, this is one of the largest statues of Nandi in the world.
One of the most important annual festivals celebrated at the Bull Temple is the “Peanut Festival” which happens every November. Peanut farmers from villages on the outskirts of the city come to the temple to offer their first crop of peanuts to Nandi the bull before selling the rest. The streets adjoining the temple are closed to traffic and take on a festive atmosphere: huge piles of peanuts are bought and sold and a variety of vendors sell trinkets, balloons and snacks to the crowds of people who come to take part.
Visitors to the temple first pay their respects to Ganesh, the elephant-headed god at the base of the hill before climbing the many steps to worship the huge monolithic statue of Nandi at the top. Carved from a single enormous slab of granite, this is one of the largest statues of Nandi in the world.
One of the most important annual festivals celebrated at the Bull Temple is the “Peanut Festival” which happens every November. Peanut farmers from villages on the outskirts of the city come to the temple to offer their first crop of peanuts to Nandi the bull before selling the rest. The streets adjoining the temple are closed to traffic and take on a festive atmosphere: huge piles of peanuts are bought and sold and a variety of vendors sell trinkets, balloons and snacks to the crowds of people who come to take part.
Practical Info
The temple is located on Bull Temple Road in
Basavanagudi, South Bangalore, next to Bugle Rock Park. It is open daily
from 6am–1pm and 4pm-9pm. Bugle Rock Park next door to the temple is
also worth a visit for its beautiful majestic trees.
Address: Bull Temple Road, Bassavanagudi, Bangalore, India, India
Hours: 6am–1pm; 4pm–9pm daily
From $ 55
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a lovely residential neighborhood located
between Gyeongbok and Changdeok Palaces, and is full of traditional hanok homes. It is a
place that perfectly embodies the heritage and culture of South Korea.
Famous for once being the residences of high-ranking government officials, the village is now a peaceful destination for visitors looking to taking a stroll through its comforting alleyways and calm, picturesque scenery. Boasting more than 600 years of history, the village reflects that of the tranquil views and nature of neo-Confucianism.
It currently houses a museum and various craft shops tucked away in its back alleys, built in a uniform way where gardens meeting on adjacent properties seem to make the whole idea of property go away. Located just at the mouth of the village, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center is a great place to get the low-down on not only the village itself, but its history and artist integrity, providing audiovisual materials and a shop.
Just a few steps away, the charming neighborhood of Samcheong-dong is the perfect place to stroll through while enjoying its unique shops, galleries and cafes.
Famous for once being the residences of high-ranking government officials, the village is now a peaceful destination for visitors looking to taking a stroll through its comforting alleyways and calm, picturesque scenery. Boasting more than 600 years of history, the village reflects that of the tranquil views and nature of neo-Confucianism.
It currently houses a museum and various craft shops tucked away in its back alleys, built in a uniform way where gardens meeting on adjacent properties seem to make the whole idea of property go away. Located just at the mouth of the village, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center is a great place to get the low-down on not only the village itself, but its history and artist integrity, providing audiovisual materials and a shop.
Just a few steps away, the charming neighborhood of Samcheong-dong is the perfect place to stroll through while enjoying its unique shops, galleries and cafes.
Practical Info
You can get to the village by taking subway line number 3 to
Anguk Station. Business hours for the cultural center exist throughout
the entire week, year-round, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through
Friday, and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. For a good place to
eat some local cuisine or just enjoy the atmosphere of a nice bar,
Samcheonggak offers both lunch and dinner menus from 12:00 until 10 pm.
The venue is also known for its performance hall where you can check out
some local acts.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 25
Bulguksa Temple
Just outside Gyeongju, South Korea’s Bulguksa Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known for its beautiful gardens and pagodas. Completed in 774, during the golden age of Silla architecture, the huge temple complex is said to have been commissioned by chief minister Kim Daeseong as a way of pacifying the spirits of his parents.
Bulguksa Temple is home to seven national treasures, including the original Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas and bronze Buddhas.
Korean for Temple of the Buddha Land, Bulguksa still acts as a working temple for the 11th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, and you’re likely to see monks performing ceremonies on your visit. Look out for the patio covered with stone stacks, too. It’s said that if you can add a stone to the top of a stack without it toppling over, your wish will come true. Keep a lookout for the local chipmunks who hang out on the patio, too.
The temple’s ornamental gardens are especially beautiful in spring, when the cherry blossoms peak. And as you walk through the gardens from Bulguksa’s parking lot to the temple, you’ll see vendors offering all sorts of foods, from silkworm larvae to candyfloss.
Practical Info
Bulguksa Temple is open daily, and entry costs 4,000 W for adults. To get to the temple from Gyeongju, take the 40-minute bus ride on no 10 or 11 from either the intercity or express bus terminals, or the train station. You can also hail a taxi, which’ll take around 20-25 minutes to reach Bulguksa from downtown.
Address: 15-1 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
Hours: Daily 7am-6pm
Admission: Adults 4,000 W, Youth 3,000 W, Children 2,000 W, Children Under 7 Free
From $ 62
Flower Market Road
The flower market is probably the most colorful and definitely the best smelling of the many Mongkok area markets. The vibrant stretch of road houses over 100 specialty shops and flower wholesalers. Here you'll find everything from delicate orchids to hearty cacti as well as scores of flowers, bonsai trees and exotic plants.
It's easy to walk through the market, buy a local bouquet at a reasonable price and take colorful photographs. The best time to visit is the week before the Lunar New Year when the market is extra active with locals buying elaborate good fortune arrangements. You can also combine this with a visit to the adjacent Yuen Po Street Bird Market and Garden.
It's easy to walk through the market, buy a local bouquet at a reasonable price and take colorful photographs. The best time to visit is the week before the Lunar New Year when the market is extra active with locals buying elaborate good fortune arrangements. You can also combine this with a visit to the adjacent Yuen Po Street Bird Market and Garden.
Address: Flower Market Rd, Prince Edward, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Most shops open from 7am - 7pm.
From $ 59
Fo Guang Shan Monastery
As one of the largest Buddhist temples in Taiwan, Fo Guang Shan Monastery is a must-see destination for first-time visitors. Home to a 100-meter (328-foot) statue of a golden Buddha, as well as 500 smaller versions of the religious deity, the complex promises epic photographs and scenic views of the nearby Gaoping River.
The Basics
The rural location of Fo Guang Shan Monastery and the unreliable nature of the public transport servicing the area means that many travelers opt to visit the monastery as part of a multi-day Taiwan tour. Typically, tours combine the Buddhist complex with visits to the dispersed Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, Kenting National Park, and the East Coast National Scenic Area. Plus, opting for a multi-day tour means that you’ll skip the hassle of arranging accommodations, transfers, and activities.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you’re visiting in summer, bring an umbrella and a hat as heat protection.
- This is a must-see for travelers interested in Buddhist architecture and history.
- There are coffee shops and vending machines at the complex.
How to Get There
Fo Guang Shan Monastery, located off of Xingtian Road, is accessible by bus from Kaohsiung Railway Station via the direct bus to Fo Guang Shan Monastery. The shrine is also accessible via train; from Jiuquatang, take a taxi or local bus.
When to Get There
In summer, it’s best to arrive at the monastery in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Plus, arriving later means that you’ll get to catch the sunset and see more than 14,800 lanterns begin to illuminate.
The Fo Guang Shan Movement
Travelers assume that all Buddhist monuments have stood for hundreds of years, and many are surprised to discover that the Fo Guang Shan Monastery is only 50 years old. The Chinese-Buddhist movement, which counts as its headquarters the monastery, is founded in humanistic teachings and has garnered followers throughout the world.
Address: No.153, Xingtian Rd., Kaohsiung 84049, Taiwan
From $ 582
Flow House Bangkok
The Flow House urban beach club concept involves packaging a slice of California surfer culture and serving it up to travelers as a one-stop destination for dining, shopping and, of course, surfing. Flow House opened its Bangkok location in 2012, with a FlowRider at its heart. The FlowRider projects a thin sheet of water over a hill-shaped surface to mimic the shape of a perfect ocean wave, allowing surfers to practice without having to rely on Mother Nature.
At Flow House Bangkok, Flowboarding is the sport of choice — an amalgamation of skateboarding, surfing, bodyboarding and snowboarding. Experienced boarders can practice new maneuvers while kids and newbies can learn a new skill. No matter your level, Flow House staff are always on standby to help out. Travelers can participate through session riding, lessons, competitions and special events, even the cautious traveler can enjoy the action while eating, drinking and hanging out.
Besides the FlowRider, Flow House Bangkok facilities include a kid’s pool, viewing deck, sun loungers, surf shop and Flow Bar, where you can purchase snacks, beers, cocktails and sodas.
Practical Info
Flow House Bangkok is located in A-Square near the intersection of Sukhumvhit and Rama 4.
Address: 120/1 Sukhumvit 26, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Open Mon - Fri: 10 am to midnight, Sat - Sun: 8 am to midnight
Admission: 750 baht per hour
From $ 19
Fontainhas
Situated on the banks of Ourem Creek in Panaji, Goa's capital city, the charming neighborhood of Fountainhas is dotted with charming old homes dating back to the mid 19th century. Fontainhas occupies land that was reclaimed in the 18th century and gets its name from the natural springs situated at the edge of the area.
The Basics
This charming area attracts travelers with its old-fashioned Portuguese-style architecture: beautiful old houses painted in pastel hues of yellow, green, blue, and pink with large balconies and red tiled roofs. It’s a fun place to wander and take photos, whether independently or as part of a group. Some heritage tours involve walks through the area, and many visitors end up stopping by the 1818 Chapel of St. Sebastian, a highlight of the neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as this area is best explored on foot.
- Fontainhas is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone with an interest in old architecture.
- Don’t forget your camera; this is one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
How to Get There
Fontainhas is located just across the Rio de Ourem from the more modern commercial hub of Panaji, and it takes about 15 minutes to get there by foot from the Panjim Bus Stand. If you're visiting Panaji from North Goa, you'll need at least a half hour to get there by car from Calangute or about 45 minutes to an hour from Anjuna and Vagator.
When to Get There
Because Fontaihas is an outdoor destination, it’s wise to visit either early in the morning, when temperatures are at their most manageable and the light is still good for photography, or in the evening, when the area begins to cool down and locals come out to walk around. If you visit in February, don’t miss the Fontainhas Festival, a week-long event celebrating art and culture in the neighborhood.
The Chapel of Saint Sebastian
Most visitors make a point of stopping at the Chapel of St Sebastian, situated at the southern end of the area on a small square where locals traditionally celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament. Inside the chapel is a crucifix that used to hang inside of the Palace of the Inquisition in Old Goa, one featuring an eerie image of Christ with his eyes open.
Address: Panaji, Goa, India, India
From $ 18
Budhanilkantha
The five-meter-long and thus biggest stone statue in Nepal, Budhanilkantha, portrays a sleeping Vishnu, floating like a gigantic astronaut on a bed of snakes in the middle of a big pool of water depicting the cosmic ocean. The incredibly well preserved carving is made out of black stone and is thought to be 1500 years old. Located in the village of the same name, the holy site is a popular spot for Hindus to practice puja, a prayer ritual to worship the gods. The daily ceremony entails priests – they are the only ones allowed to approach Vishnu’s divine head - washing the face and the feet of the sculpture with water and afterwards, applying a mixture of ghee, milk, yoghurt, honey and sugar on the same spots.
Later, since only Hindus are allowed to get close the statue, believers worship at its feet and leave offerings of food and flower petals. All other visitors have to be content with viewing the resting Vishnu from the sidelines. The only person who was never allowed to visit was the king back when Nepal was still a monarchy. Some say the reason is a curse, which would instantly kill the king if he saw the statue, while others claim that the monarch was the reincarnation of Vishnu and therefore, wasn’t allowed to see his own image.
By the way, the name Budhanilkantha has nothing to do with Buddha, but literally means “blue throat disguised by mud”. The peculiar name refers to two legends attached to the statue, one of them saying that a farmer found the long lost statue in the mud when working his field with a plough and the other saying that Vishnu sacrificed himself by drinking the poison of the cosmic ocean, which then turned his throat blue.
Practical Info
Budhanilkantha can be found about 15 kilometers north of Kathmandu. It’s easiest to get there either by taxi, or by taking one of the many busses and minibusses making the journey. When you get out, you can find the statue about 100 meters to the east of the Budhanilkantha stop.
Address: Budhanilkantha, Nepal
From $ 35
Bukit Melawati
Bukit Melawati (Melawati Hill) served as a stronghold for the Selangor Sultanate during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Remnants of the fort still dot the landscaped park now occupying the hill, including sections of wall, grave sites, a few cannons and a flat stone that was once used for beheadings.
Today the park attracts not only history buffs, but nature lovers and other visitors who come to take in the panoramic views of the Selangor coastline from the top of the hill. On a clear day the Straits of Malacca are visible in the distance. A lighthouse, built in 1910 by the British, sits at the summit, through it’s not open to visitors.
Silver-leafed monkeys and long-tailed macaques often hang around the park, hoping for a meal of peanuts or stolen snacks from unwary visitors.
Practical Info
A trail from the edge of town spirals up the hill to the top of Bukit Melawati. The walk takes about 20 minutes.
Address: Kuala Selangor 45000, Malaysia
Hours: 9am to 6pm
From $ 62
Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan)
A landmark in Guilin since the Tang Dynasty, and considered by many to be a symbol of the city, Elephant Trunk (Xiangbishan) Hill got its name because it’s said to resemble a giant elephant drinking water from the Li River. Towering more than 180 feet (55 meters) above the water, it’s one of the top attractions in Guilin.
The Basics
In addition to the hill itself, there are a number of caves, pagodas, and temples, including Water Moon Cave, which is said to resemble the full moon on water, or the Elephant Eyes Cave, which is located where the elephant’s “eyes” should be. Climb to the top of Elephant Trunk Hill to see the Puxian Pagoda and for panoramic views over Guilin and stop by Love Island, in the middle of the Li River, for a great vantage point of Elephant Trunk Hill.
Elephant Trunk Hill is a popular site, and many half-day and full-day tours will stop here, along with other attractions like Fubo Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and Seven Star Cave. You can also combine a visit with a multi-day tour that explores other areas nearby like Yangshuo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Elephant Trunk Hill is a must-see for first time visitors to Guilin.
- A cruise is a great way to see Elephant Trunk Hill, and it will also allow you to see Water Moon Cave at night.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you’re planning to climb to the top of Elephant Trunk Hill. The steep path can be slippery.
How to Get There
Elephant Trunk Hill is located at the confluence of the Li River and the Taohua River. Take bus nos. 2, 16, 23, or 58 (free tourist bus) and get off at Xiangbishan Park Station.
When to Get There
Elephant Trunk Hill is a very popular tourist attraction. Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds or at night on a moonlit cruise.
Other Attractions at Elephant Trunk Hill
Puxian Pagoda, at the top of Elephant Trunk Hill, was built during the Ming Dynasty to worship Samatabahra. Yunfeng Temple, located on the southwest slope of Elephant Trunk Hill, was the home of the Buddhist Monk Jianzhen during the Tang Dynasty, and was also used during the Taiping Rebellion. Today the temple contains an exhibition gallery devoted to that conflict.
Address: China
From $ 63
Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay
When the seasons in Singapore are changing, travelers can still voyage into a constant springtime at the popular Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay. Lush tropical foliage and colorful Mediterranean flowers and are in perpetual bloom. Visitors can explore desert plants from around the world, wander through the expansive Flower Field and get up close with baobabs, succulents and a variety of tree species from South Africa, Australia and the Americas.
Brilliantly colored blooms and changing floral displays, like the wintry wonderland and spring sensation are just part of what makes a trip to Flower Dome so enchanting. The impressive 1,000-year-old olive tree is homage to the highly-valued fruit of Spain and hands-on exhibits and galleries are perfect for the younger crowd.
Practical Info
The Flower Dome is located at 18 Marina Gardens Drive in Singapore. It is a short walk from the Helix Bridge and Art Science Museum, but travelers can also access the gardens via the Circle, Downtown or East-West bus and train lines. Outdoor gardens are open from 5 a.m. until 2 a.m. daily and the Cooled Conservatories and Skyway are open from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily.
Address: Singapore
Hours: Daily 9am-10pm
Admission: Adults $12, Seniors & Children $8
From $ 17
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is perhaps the best place in Singapore for a look at Chinese Buddhism. Located in the heart of Chinatown, the temple is believed to house a sacred relic of the Buddha, housed within a gold stupa inside the temple.
While the temple exhibits Tang Dynasty architectural elements, it was actually built in 2007. In just a few short years, it has become a major landmark in Chinatown and a popular destination for both tourists and worshipers.
After visiting the main temple and viewing the various Buddha statuary, make sure to check out the museum on the third floor. Here, you’ll find a collection of Buddhist relics, artifacts and works of art. Also of interest is the History Gallery that outlines the conceptualization and construction of the temple. Admission to both the museum and temple is free, and guided tours in English are available twice per week.
While the temple exhibits Tang Dynasty architectural elements, it was actually built in 2007. In just a few short years, it has become a major landmark in Chinatown and a popular destination for both tourists and worshipers.
After visiting the main temple and viewing the various Buddha statuary, make sure to check out the museum on the third floor. Here, you’ll find a collection of Buddhist relics, artifacts and works of art. Also of interest is the History Gallery that outlines the conceptualization and construction of the temple. Admission to both the museum and temple is free, and guided tours in English are available twice per week.
Practical Info:
Routes to take by transit: Bus: 61, 166, 197, 80, and 145.
Address: 288 S Bridge Rd, 058840, Singapore
Hours: Daily: 7am - 7pm
From $ 17
Elephant Nature Park
A sanctuary for former ill-treated Asian elephants, the Elephant Nature Park encourages visitors to learn about the plight of these mammals and their habitat through activities, such as feeding and helping to care for the resident herd. Elephant rides are not offered at the park, a policy the park encourages in other elephant camps.
The Basics
Most travelers visit the elephant sanctuary on a day trip from Chiang Mai. A daylong elephant experience includes the chance to observe the animals in the forest, feed them fruit from a viewing platform under staff supervision, and assist with bathing elephants in a nearby river.
Funds raised here support efforts to reforest habitats for wild elephants, and the park also houses a menagerie of other rescued animals from Northern Thailand, including dogs, cats, and birds. Food for the elephants is purchased locally to support area farmers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This elephant rescue center is a must-see for animal lovers and families.
- Common areas of the elephant park offer free Wi-Fi access.
- A full-day park visit includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Chiang Mai city and lunch.
- All experiences at the elephant park are suitable for all fitness levels.
- The park has a restaurant serving both Thai and Western vegetarian dishes, buffet style.
- Be sure to book your experience in advance as they tend to sell out.
How to Get There
The Elephant Nature Park is located just under 40 miles (64 kilometers) north of Chiang Mai at 1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Sing. The journey takes about 90 minutes.
When to Get There
Full-day experiences at the park take place daily throughout the year, with hotel pickup early in the morning and drop-off during late afternoon. The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is cool and relatively dry.
Longer Stays at the Park
While the single-day visit is the most popular option at the Elephant Nature Park, visitors can opt for longer stays as well, ranging from a short overnight visit to a full week of volunteering.
Address: 1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand 50200, Thailand
Admission: Varies
From $ 29