September 13, 2025 | 01:03 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The digital travel platform Agoda has released its list of the top rural destinations in Asia, with Puncak, a mountainous region in Bogor Regency, West Java, ranking third. The area was placed after Cameron Highlands in Malaysia and Khao Yai in Thailand.
Puncak is a popular destination for those seeking a break from the fast-paced life in Jakarta. According to Agoda, as reported by Vn Express, the area is known for its cool climate, beautiful scenery, and tea plantations, as well as its wide range of affordable accommodations.
Rural destinations, particularly those in mountainous and hilly areas, are becoming increasingly popular among travelers who want to immerse themselves in local culture and natural beauty. These highland areas offer a more relaxed pace of life, allowing visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature away from crowded city centers.
The ranking was compiled from accommodation searches conducted on Agoda between February 15 and August 15, 2025, across eight Asian markets with populations under 50,000.
Top Rural Destinations in Asia, According to Agoda
1. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Known for its cool climate and tea plantations, Cameron Highlands offers lush green landscapes, vibrant flower gardens, and fresh produce from local farms. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat and explore charming villages or go on a hike.
2. Khao Yai, Thailand
As Thailand's oldest national park, Khao Yai provides opportunities for wildlife safaris, waterfall visits, and panoramic views. The area is celebrated for its biodiversity and offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts.
3. Puncak, Indonesia
Located in West Java, Puncak is famous for its stunning mountain views and expansive tea plantations. It offers a refreshing escape from the capital city, with opportunities for activities such as hiking, paragliding, and exploring local markets. Despite its popularity, the road to Puncak often experiences severe traffic jams, especially on long weekends.
4. Fujikawaguchiko, Japan
Situated near Mount Fuji, Fujikawaguchiko provides breathtaking views of Japan's iconic peaks. Visitors can relax in hot springs, explore traditional Japanese gardens, and enjoy seasonal festivals. Its proximity to Mount Fuji makes it an ideal base for exploring the area's natural wonders.
5. Kenting, Taiwan
Kenting is a coastal gem known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Tourists can enjoy water sports, explore coral reefs, and relax on sandy shores. The national park in the area offers scenic hiking trails, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
6. Sa Pa, Vietnam
Sa Pa offers breathtaking scenery that changes with the seasons. In spring, visitors are treated to beautiful plum and peach blossoms. In summer, the landscape is filled with lush green paddy fields. Autumn brings a stunning view of golden terraced rice fields, and winter can even bring snowfall.
7. Munnar, India
Munnar, located in Kerala, is renowned for its tea plantations and misty mountains. Tourists can explore lush green hills, visit tea museums, and enjoy wildlife sanctuaries. The area's cool climate and natural beauty provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
8. Pyeongchang-gun, South Korea
This mountainous county is famous for hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics. Pyeongchang-gun is home to popular ski resorts like Alpensia and Yongpyong, as well as year-round attractions such as Odaesan National Park and the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm. With its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and cultural sites like Woljeongsa Temple, it has become a popular destination for both winter sports and nature tourism.
Editor's Choice: Four Exotic Islands for Island Hopping in Gorontalo's Kwandang Bay
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Democracy Falls in Majority of Countries Worldwide
1 hari lalu
A new report has found serious concerns about the state of global democracy as more countries slip in democratic performance.
List of the 10 Largest Lakes in Asia by Area
8 hari lalu
The Caspian Sea tops the list of the largest lakes in Asia, spanning 386,400 square kilometers. Explore more of the continent's massive lakes here.
Angkor Wat Named TripAdvisor's Top Landmark in Asia for 2025
12 hari lalu
Angkor Wat has been named the number one iconic landmark in Asia for the second consecutive year and number one in the world
Blood Moon Is Coming on September 7; Here's When and Where to See Worldwide
28 hari lalu
On September 7, a rare blood moon will be visible to over 7 billion people worldwide, with totality expected to span 82 minutes. Learn more here.
Continent with the Most Countries to the Least: A Surprising Ranking
29 hari lalu
The continent with the most countries may surprise some, but it proves that size alone does not define diversity.
AirAsia to Open New Route from Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul Starting November 14
31 hari lalu
Airline company AirAsia X (AAX) has announced a new route from Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul, Turkiye.
65% of Indonesians Targeted by Scam Attempts Weekly
42 hari lalu
Scams can take many forms, ranging from fake job offers to investment fraud.
6 Stress-Free Getaways in Asia for the Elderly
47 hari lalu
These destinations already have adequate infrastructure that facilitates the mobility of the elderly with suitable tourist spots.
Meet The Largest Cave in Asia that Breathes Its Own Climate
52 hari lalu
Discover the largest cave in Asia- Han Son Doong, which has its own climate system.
Top 10 Street Foods in Asia: Indonesia's Siomay and Batagor Make the Cut
53 hari lalu
Cherished by locals and travelers alike, these flavorful bites of street foods across Asia are reflections of culture, tradition, and community.
