Asia is a remarkable continent. It has so many different countries, terrains, cultures etc. It is this diversity that attracts people from far and wide to explore it.
Spending September in Asia is a popular choice among both local and international tourists. The weather is great, in most countries the monsoons have retreated, and the climate is just right.
We worked with a number of travel bloggers to put together this piece (the next in our series of travelling Asia by month!).
We received some really amazing suggestions. In fact, there were many places that we had never considered visiting during that time.
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September In Asia: Table Of Contents
If you have been following our series of spending your vacation in Asia, then you will have realized that our lists tend to be long. This can make them hard to navigate. We were faced with the choice of splitting them into parts or improving the way you scroll through them. We chose the latter. The following links will take you to country specific locations which are perfect to spend September in Asia.
Indonesia
Indonesia has been one of those locations that we have visited multiple times over the years. The gorgeous coasts that border the different islands, the diverse landscapes and the tropical weather all work together to capture our attention. A lot of travel bloggers found the islands of Indonesia perfect to spend September in Asia. Take a look at the all the places that made the list.
1. Gili Islands
Gili T is a gorgeous place in Indonesia to spend September in Asia.
LOCATION: The Gili Islands are 3 tiny slices of heaven located near Lombok’s northwest coast -106 km east of Bali, southern Indonesia.
GETTING THERE: Most travellers head to the Gili Islands from Bali using a fast boat service. This is quite a straight forward option as you can hire a pack that includes a shuttle from your location to Padang Bai -the port from where you’ll connect with the islands. It’s also possible to use the public ferry boat but the trip takes much longer.
Plus, the ferry will leave you in Lombok, from where you’ll need to take a 2nd public boat. To hire the fast boat service, just talk to the staff at your accommodation in Bali, or head to the central area of where you are staying, and shop for good deals! You can also book your fast boat transfer online.
The Gili Islands are 3: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Trawangan is known as the ‘party island,’ and is the one offering the most options for travellers on any type of budget.
Gili Meno and Gili Air are couples’ and families’ favorites as they offer a more chilled vibe, far from all the party rocking going on at ‘Gili T.’ Gili Trawangan is a fabulous place to set base and go on day trips! Know that as the islands are so small, there are no cars!
Just bicycles, electric scooters, and Cidomos -kinda like tuk-tuks, but drawn by horses. So, in the end, you can stay anywhere you like…think of it this way, regardless of where you are, there’s a beach 5 minutes away -max!
Visiting the Gili Islands with an open heart is like falling in love with traveling over and over again. Stroll around each of them in just over 1 hour, mingle with the locals while dancing by a bonfire, go surfing, diving, sunset chasing, munching on local food, and truly enjoying all-things-chilling.
The Gilis are tiny spots on the map where you could stay 1 day and pretty much see it all, but you’d stay a month, just because you love them so much.
The islands were heavily shaken by Lombok 2018′ earthquake, so you will see patches of them that seem abandoned or dirty. Don’t let this get you!
If you feel like helping just reach out to the locals and ask them to share their stories with you, ask how you can be of service.
One of the biggest problems the islands face are flocks of tourists taking their party skills way too far, so try not to be this person! You’ll end up missing the one thing that really matters and that is… You are in paradise! Enjoy!
By Martina from The Global Curious
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in the Gili islands.
Tours In The Gili Islands That You Should Consider: One of the best experiences is the private snorkeling trip from the Gili T. It takes you to Gili Meno and the waters around Gili T. It is an epic adventure.
2. Komodo Island
The Komodo islands are a great place to spend September in Asia.
LOCATION: Komodo National Park near Flores Indonesia.
GETTING THERE: You can reach Flores by flying from Bali (Denpasar) to Labuan Bajo (Komodo Airport), travel overland with a ferry/bus combination or by taking a 4-day boat trip that is a popular backpacking adventure.
WHERE TO STAY: For diving it is possible to stay on a liveaboard boat cruising to the best dive sites in the park for a couple of days.
Most people visiting Flores stay in Labuanbajo with plenty of hotels, backpackers and accommodation for every budget.
Boats to Komodo island and the main dive sites in the park depart daily from here. There is also accommodation on small surrounding islands like Flores Xpirates Dive Camp is set in Sebayur Island.
September is a great time to visit the park. It is not the main tourist season, conditions are good with little wind and waves, the water is clear, and the temperature is moderate.
Diving in Komodo National Park, surrounded by massive Manta Rays, pelagic fish hunting and a jaw dropping variety of colourful tropical fish is an experience difficult to beat.
This time of the year is a good time for mantas, and you might even see sperm whales! With good weather you can visit Komodo Island to see the dragons.
The most famous dive site is Manta Point, a shallow drift dive floating over a manta cleaning station, divers are often surrounded by up to 20 large manta rays while hanging in the current witnessing the spectacle on the cleaning station.
By Campbell and Alya from Stingy Nomads
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in the Komodo islands.
3. Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is one gorgeous place to spend September in Asia.
LOCATION: Nusa Penida
GETTING THERE: Nusa Penida is situated just 30 minutes by ferry from Bali Mainland. Boats leave daily from Sanur Harbour, and you can buy your ticket a night before departure or book online before your trip.
WHERE TO STAY: The best area to stay on Nusa Penida is Toya Pakeh Harbour or Crystal Bay Beach. My favourite hotel is Semabu Hills Hotel that boasts a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Nusa Penida is a great destination to go on holiday in September. It’s still within the dry season that ends in October, and it’s outside of school holidays which means fewer crowds and lower prices.
Nusa Penida is a small Indonesian island just of Bali mainland. It will take your breath away with its unspoiled nature, pristine clean beaches and dramatic clifftop views. Penida Island is still one of those places where you can find an empty beach and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature without another soul near you.
Visit Instagram famous Kelingking beach and take an epic shot from a clifftop overlooking the T-rex shape rock formation. Explore some unworldly creations of Mother Earth including nature-made tidal lagoon of Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach.
Head to Crystal Bay, an impressive diving spot where you can swim with manta rays. Visit Atuh Beach, which is located on the Eastern side of Nusa Penida.
The beach is hidden away in a bay and protected from strong waves which makes it perfect for swimming. Spend a day lazing on a binbag sipping fresh coconut and soaking in the views of a perfectly turquoise lagoon.
By Mal from Raw Mal Roams
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in the Nusa Penida.
Japan
Japan has been on our radar for years. It isn’t just about the food which is delicious! Japan has intrigued me because of the gorgeous landscape, the discipline that it is famous for and because well… It is so clean or that’s what I have been told. If it is anything like Singapore, I am sure that I will fall in love.
4. Snow Monkey Park
Ever considered spending September in Asia at the Snow monkey park in Japan.
LOCATION: Jigokudani Monkey Park (Snow Monkey Park) in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
GETTING THERE: Take the train to the Nagano Station. From there, take a 41-minute bus ride to the Bus Stop Snow Monkey Park at Kanbayashi Osen. From there you walk for 25 minutes to the Snow Monkey Park.
WHERE TO STAY: I recommend staying at the Kokuya Ryokan. It’s a traditional Japanese stay and right next to the park. There are a variety of hot springs (that sometimes even the monkeys soak in) right in and next to the ryokan. The ryokan also offers a nine-course traditional Japanese dinner.
I went to Japan in early September and the Snow Monkey Park was the highlight of the trip. It’s located in the beautiful mountains in Japan, even in September, everything was so lush and green.
The first day when we arrived at the Snow Monkey Park, it was raining, and the monkeys were hiding. We walked around the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, saw the hot springs, and enjoyed the location.
That evening we stayed at the ryokan, soaks in hot springs, had the nine-course dinner, and slept on mats on the floor that were more comfortable than any bed I’ve ever slept in.
In the late morning as we were getting ready to leave and our taxi was arriving, the sun came out and the monkeys came out! We even saw a couple of mama and baby monkeys.
By Jenny with Campsite Vibes
Kazakhstan
Have you ever though of spending September in Asia in the gorgeous regions that Kazakhstan has to offer? I know I have. The problem is that it is a bit tough to get to the country from where I live, or I would have hopped on the next flight out. Seriously! Just take a look at the gorgeous photographs that accompany every post that includes the country!
5. Almaty
Now doesn’t this look a gorgeous place to spend September in Asia?
LOCATION: Almaty
GETTING THERE: Most people fly into Almaty International Airport or come by minibus from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
WHERE TO STAY: The Kazakhstan Hotel
Almaty is the cultural capital of Kazakhstan and a fabulous place to explore in September when the mountain air cools everything down just enough to really be able to get out and enjoy nature! Also, the city is famous for its namesake Big Almaty Lake, which is a vibrant blue mountain lake.
September is an especially good time to visit because the lake is at its most vibrant during this time of year. The city has some great attractions, especially for anyone wanting to do any Red Tourism and explore the country’s Soviet past.
However, there are tons of great places to take day trips from Almaty, including Tamgaly Tas, a Buddhist Open Air Rock Sanctuary, and Nomad’s Land, a former movie set turned Instagram haven. For great city views, head to the bar at the top of the Kazakhstan Hotel.
This former Soviet Hotel, complete with social realist architecture, is now an upscale experience. The views from the tables here look out over the entire city, and there are small telescopes on the tables to help you enjoy it!
Take note that Kazakhstan tourism isn’t quite as up to date as other countries. You’ll need cash to do many things when you leave the city. In Almaty, though, expect a modern city with great amenities, architecture, and people.
By Stephanie from History Fan Girl
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Almaty.
Malaysia
Another country that we have spent a surprising amount of time in is Malaysia. Yup! Check my passport and you will definitely see multiple Malaysian visas.
Ironically, a lot of this time has been spent on the island of Borneo. We still have to explore the mainland more. Did I mention that it is also a great lace to spend September in Asia?
6. Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is another brilliant place to spend September in Asia.
LOCATION: Kuala Lumpur
GETTING THERE: This major city in Asia is well connected by flight, train, bus, and other modes of public transport.
WHERE TO STAY: the best areas are the neighbourhoods of Bukit Bintang or KLCC City Centre.
No visit to Asia in September is complete without a stop in Kuala Lumpur. The capital of Malaysia has grown to become one of the best cities to offer a great blend of city life and rural experience, with a good mix of different languages and cultures.
Some of the iconic landmarks include the Petronas Twin Towers, Independence Square, and the National mosque, with the highlight being a visit to the 400-million-year-old Batu Caves.
With a classic equatorial climate, Kuala Lumpur is relatively humid and hot overall, and there is always the possibility of rain at any time of the year.
The weather does go through random floods and heat waves and is affected by two major monsoon seasons yearly during April–May and October–November.
During this time the city experiences extensive rainfall and thunderstorms. Arriving in-between this period, allows one to enjoy the city without having to worry too much about wet weather interfering in any activities and spoiling the sightseeing.
Daily high temperatures are around 31°C, rarely falling below 30°C. It is also a good time to experience many of the holiday celebrations that occur at this time of the year.
By Rai from A Rai Of Light
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
7. Langkawi
September in Asia cannot get better than chilling on the beaches of Langkawi.
Location: Langkawi
Getting There: You can get to Langkawi very easily. It has a very active airport which is well connected to major hubs. Alternatively, you could even take the ferry over from Penang or even Thailand! Yes! I’m not kidding.
Where To Stay: For a budget stay, book a room at the Chill Suites. If you are looking for a more luxurious experience then head to Ombak Villa. We loved it here.
Langkawi is one of the coolest locations in Malaysia for a vacation. This island is a unique spot to spend some time at. Not only is the entire island part of a UNESCO heritage site, it also has loads of things to do.
Popular things to do on the island include island hopping, sunset cruises and visiting the mangroves. Many people love to chill on one of the numerous beaches of Langkawi. Soft white sand, gentle waves and great entertainment.
Oh and if you want to do something really unique then visit Nasi Dagang Pak Malau. This is a pretty unique place to catch a bite to eat. You will find yourself surrounded by green fields and a pretty chill laid back atmosphere. The food here is the best that you will get on the island too!
Oh and did I mention the usual activities that draw the tourists? Probably not! Well you can visit the Langkawi sky bridge, head to the petting zoo, have a VR experience and more!
Tours In Langkawi That You Should Consider: If you are in Langkawi and are looking for unique experiences, I highly recommend booking the sunset cruises, the island hopping tours and the mangrove tours.
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Lankawi.
8. Penang
Penang is an epic place to spend September in Asia!
Location: Penang, Malaysia
Getting There: Penang is very well connected to all the major hubs of Malaysia. It has an active airport and there are numerous flights that fly in and out every day. Alternatively you can take a bus or drive a car.
Where To Stay: Campbell house
I loved Penang from the day we first set foot on the island. George Town was my go to location. Why? I’m a big foodie and Penang is a foodies paradise. September in Penang offers a mix of weather but since you have a mix of both indoor and outdoor activities, there is always something to do if it rains.
One of the best things to do is to scout around for the best breakfast in Penang. Our favorites were definitely Roti Bakar at Hutton Lane and Roti Canai at Gemas road.
Oh and let’s not forget that it doesn’t always have to be about street food in Penang. There are some really cool cafes in Penang that you can sit and work from. This is what makes Penang a great place for people who are digital nomads.
There are a lot of great cultural things to explore too. I highly recommend exploring the Penang Clan jetties. They are a unique area on the island and are certainly worth visiting.
Tours In Penang To Consider: If you are in Penang do not miss the Georgetown food tour. It literally gives you a flavor of the island. The flexible 6 hour highlight tour is another interesting way to discover the island.
Note: Don’t forget to check out the other local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Penang.
Saudi Arabia
To be honest, Saudi Arabia is one of those locations that I have never really considered when it came to spending September in Asia. Interestingly, Jeddah sounds like a really cool place to visit during that time.
9. Jeddah
Have you ever considered spending your September in Asia in Jeddah?
LOCATION: Jeddah
GETTING THERE: The best option is by plane. There are several directs from Europe for example.
WHERE TO STAY: Ibis Jeddah City Centre is a pretty good option.
Jeddah, a port city with more than three million inhabitants on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, is one of the most important trade centres in the country and the perfect place for a trip in September. Especially since the temperatures are bearable compared to the super-hot summer months.
The city is considered more cosmopolitan and less conservative than the capital Riyadh. Its location on the Red Sea also makes it an attractive tourist destination, but most travellers are pilgrims who travel from here to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
Little is left of the old structure of the commercial metropolis, but efforts have been made for some years to renovate the remaining buildings, especially the coral houses. As a recognition and motivation, the old town was given the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.
There are modern glass and concrete skyscrapers along the magnificent beach boulevard, the Corniche, but the old town with its picturesque alleys and souks begins right opposite, where you can still bargain in the oriental way.
Not far from the busy centre are the diving and bathing resorts on the Red Sea. And guess what is the best time to do that? September of course.
By Clemens from Travellers Archive
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Jeddah.
10. Singapore
Singapore is an amazing place to spend September in Asia.
LOCATION: Singapore
GETTING THERE: Singapore is an accessible location to get to as it a significant hub of Asia. With most major airlines arriving into one of Changi Airports 4 terminals. You may also enter via land if you are travelling from Malaysia or arrive via ferry from the surrounding (mostly) Indonesian islands.
WHERE TO STAY: Marina Bay Sands
Most people will have seen the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel when googling the word Singapore, especially the infinity pool that is found on the rooftop.
What most people are not aware of is that you can only enter the pool if you are a guest of the hotel, so why not splurge and stay at this iconic location.
Singapore is known for its clean streets and tropical weather, which makes it the perfect location all year round. Singapore is easy to manoeuvre with its affordable state of the art public transport system. There are many free walking tours on offer; however, you can get around easy enough on your own.
Whether you choose to explore Singapore’s history around Fort Canning, enjoy the nightlife and bars that can be found in Clarke Quay or decide to spend your entire time on Sentosa Island, it makes for the perfect vacation spot for all ages and all vacation types.
Singapore is also known for its melting pot of culinary delights with Indian, Chinese and Malay cuisine’s found everywhere. You can taste Singapore’s favourite dishes at Michelin star restaurants or dine at many of the affordable hawker’s markets; either way, you will not be disappointed.
You can find out for yourself why Singaporeans pride themselves as being real “foodies”. It is a perfect place to spend September in Asia.
By Paula from Truly Expat
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Singapore.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of my favourite countries in Asia. Since it is so close to India, flights here are quite cheap. The short flight also means that you won’t spend a lot of time in transit. I love the food that the country has to offer and the fact the weather is great makes it a perfect place to spend September in Asia.
11. Ella
Ella is one of my favourite places when it comes to spending September in Asia.
LOCATION: Ella, Sri Lanka
GETTING THERE: Ella is located at the southern end of Sri Lanka Hill Country and can be easily reached by train or bus. There are direct trains from Kandy and Nanu Oya, which is right outside Nuwara Eliya. You can also get there by bus from Colombo’s Pettah bus station.
WHERE TO STAY: The best places to stay in Ella are 98 Acres hotel, where you can stay in a balcony with incredible views over the mountains and tea plantations and have your own plunge pool, or Will Guest Homestay, which is more suitable for budget travelers.
Ella is one of the most popular places to visit in Sri Lanka, as it offers a great array of attractions and things to do, and it has a young, active vibe and – as opposed to other places in Sri Lanka – it is well geared to receiving tourists since it has quite a wide accommodation selection as well as good restaurants (which actually are not that common in Sri Lanka).
Among the things to do in Ella, make sure to go to Nine Arch Bridge, which was completed in 1921 and is beautifully set among tea plantations.
The best time to visit is when the train which connects Kandy to Bandarawela (via Ella) runs – which is several times a day. So, make sure to check the train timetable to get there a bit in advance.
Ella is a great hiking destination. If the strenuous hike to admire the sunrise from Adam’s Peak sounds too challenging, you can opt for the 1 hour hike to Little Adam’s Peak which starts from the back of 98 Acres Hotel.
Not far from Ella you will find an abundance of beautiful waterfalls. Ravana Waterfall is easily reached and incredibly scenic.
You may also want to see Elle Wala waterfall, which on the other hand is a bit further away but blissfully isolated, with a nice natural swimming hole you can enjoy all by yourself.
Have I mentioned that the temperatures are great which makes Ella a perfect spot to spend September in Asia?
By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World
12. Jafna
Jaffna is another great location to spend September in Asia.
LOCATION: Jaffna
GETTING THERE: Depending on where in Sri Lanka you’re coming from, the best to get into Jaffna is either by bus or by train.
Assuming you’re flying into Colombo, the easiest and fastest way to get to Jaffna is by train. Although you would have to take the train from Colombo Fort Station, which located in the city. And getting into the city from the airport by public transport can be challenging.
However, by taxi or TukTuk it’s only a short ride. There are six trains a day departing from Colombo Fort.
The train takes about 6 or 10 hours, depending on whether you take the Intercity or Long-Distance train. You can find the departure times of the trains on the official Sri Lanka Rail Service.
Are you coming from Anuradhapura?
You will take the same train that’s coming from Colombo. Lastly, for anyone who’s coming from Trincomalee on the east coast. You should take one of the four daily buses that depart from Trincomalee’s main bus station.
Jaffna will be listed as the final destination and it takes approximately 6 hours.
WHERE TO STAY: For the solo budget travellers, there is only one hostel in Jaffna, which is called the Yaarl hostel.
It is not the greatest and most social hostel you will ever stay at, but it does the job. For other travellers, there are quite a number of guesthouses and hotels to choose from.
Jaffna is another big and busy Sri Lanka city. However, don’t scratch Jaffna of your list just yet! Jaffna is not like any other Sri Lankan city, and that is exactly what makes it such an interesting place to visit.
The majority of the population in Jaffna is Tamil, even though they form a minority in Sri Lanka. Their main religion is Hinduism, which is why you will find many beautiful Hindu temples in, and around Jaffna.
Sadly, Jaffna was hit hard by the recent civil, which lasted 26 years, and only ended in 2009. During this time many Sri Lankans fled Jaffna, and tourists never dared to visit.
Nowadays both Sri Lankans and tourists are slowly returning to Jaffna, but you won’t see large crowds of tourists in Jaffna as you would in places such as Sigiriya or Ella.
Yet there are quite a lot of fun things to do in Jaffna. Such as visiting Jaffna Fort, some Hindu temples, and the most northern point of Sri Lanka.
The contrast between these pretty sights, and all the abandoned and damaged building as a result of the civil war, is what makes Jaffna such an interesting place to visit.
Jaffna might not be the most beautiful sight in Sri Lanka. But seeing the impact of the war and learning the story behind it, is so affecting, it makes Jaffna worth a visit nonetheless. Plus, the colourful temples and very few tourists make up for the lack of beauty.
By Lara from Both Feet On The Road
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Jaffna.
Tajikistan
Looking for a great place to spend September in Asia? Have you ever thought of spending the month in Tajikistan? The country doesn’t always make its way on to many lists but we have heard so much about its gorgeous countryside. Makes it a very tempting place to visit.
13. Pamir Highway
Have you considered spending your September in near the Pamir Highway?
LOCATION: The Pamir highway
GETTING THERE: you can either start in Dushanbe, Tajikistan or Osh in Kyrgyzstan. Both cities have airports where you can fly in.
WHERE TO STAY: Homestays along the way
The Pamir highway is one of the epic road trips in Asia. Crossing the high Pamir mountains in Tajikistan it is one of the highest highways in the world. The Ak Baital pass is at no less than 4655 meters altitude. As a result, this journey offers the most stunning mountain sceneries in Central Asia.
The Pamir highway runs from Dushanbe in Tajikistan to Osh in Kyrgyzstan. Although in theory it is possible to do this journey in 3 long days, this is not recommended. There is so much to see and do that you need at least a week to appreciate all that this road trip has to offer.
You need even more time if you like to do some of the detours into the lush Bartang valley or the multicultural Wakhan corridor that runs along the border of Afghanistan.
The road here runs so close that you can easily see the Afghan villages at the other side of the river. On the way you will stay in basic, but welcoming homestays.
In September it will be getting cold already and you need to pack warm clothes, but there are good reasons to visit this month. With the autumn colours in the poplar trees and clear blue skies this is when the Pamir highway is at its most beautiful.
Despite the rather cool temperatures, you will find that the Pamir highway is perfect place to visit in September in Asia.
By Ellis From Backpack Adventures
Thailand
Thailand is a gorgeous country and it made its way onto our list of places to spend September in Asia for a number of reasons.
The climate, the beaches, the mountains, the food and the people are just a few of the ones that come to mind. Take a look at what other travel bloggers have to say about the country and why you should visit it.
14. Chiang Rai
September in Asia… Have you considered Chiang Rai?
LOCATION: Chiang Rai
GETTING THERE: Chiang Rai is located in the far north of Thailand. There is no airport or train station. The best way to get to Chiang Rai is by taking a bus from Chiang Mai. It will take about 3 hours. A lot of buses run between the two cities each day.
WHERE TO STAY: The best area to stay in Chiang Rai also happens to be the most convenient, right in the town centre! The town centre is home to many markets, restaurants and bars. It’s very lively and safe.
Located only a few minutes walk from the bus station, you won’t even need to take a tuk-tuk! Once there you will find all sorts of accommodation including hostels, budget, mid-range and luxury hotels.
Chiang Rai is the perfect destination for nature and culture lovers. The main attraction in Chiang Rai is Wat Rong Khun, mainly known as the white temple.
This privately owned art exhibit is one of the most beautiful modern temples in the world. If you enjoy it and want more, you can head to Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple).
If you are a foodie, you will love the town centre. Just walk around and let your nose guide you. There is street food everywhere! If you are looking for typical food from the North of Thailand, try a green curry or mango salad. It’s a bit spicy but absolutely delicious!
Finally, Chiang Rai is the perfect starting point to go out and explore the Golden Triangle. It’s highly recommended to go on an organised tour for this activity.
Nowadays, it is safe for tourists to discover this beautiful region, however this is not a place where you’d want to wander off the beaten tracks. Just ask your hotel and they will surely have some options available.
During the tour, you will get to go to the Opium museum, go on a boat ride on the Mekong and enjoy beautiful views where the 3 countries (Thailand, Myanmar and Laos) come together!
Please note that it gets quite humid there in September. So don’t forget to stay hydrated.
By Pauline from Beeloved City
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Chiang Rai.
15. Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is a fun place to spend September in Asia.
LOCATION: Koh Phangan
GETTING THERE: Fly to Koh Samui, take a ferry (shorter, more comfortable, more expensive) OR Fly to Surat Thani, take a longer ferry (longer, less comfortable, cheaper)
WHERE TO STAY: Seaflower Koh Phangan (mid-range option)
Koh Phangan belongs to one of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand. About 80% of its size is a protected nature reserve, so the lush greenery is not going to be all cut down for development of tourism.
While Koh Phangan became famous for its monthly Full Moon parties, its appeal goes way beyond that. Only the south eastern corner of Koh Phangan gets swamped with Full Mooners; the rest of the island is relaxed and beautiful.
Koh Phangan features stunning beaches, from small coves to large strips of sand. The beaches are mostly public and easy to reach. Several of them have coral reefs just a few meters from the shore, readily available for snorkelling exploration.
The island has always been highly spiritual, ever since monks started coming here in the 60’s.
Nowadays the spirituality is most visible in the yoga offering, with countless classes, retreats and teacher courses. Sri Thanu in the West of Koh Phangan is the ultimate yoga hotspot. There’s many diverse things to do in Koh Phangan too.
The island has some excellent hiking trails, plenty of stylish cafés, there’s street food markets, events and festivals held regularly.
It is a wonderful place to stay for any amount of time. September is one of the best times of year to visit Koh Phangan. The rainy season is only about to start, and the weather is mild with little rain.
By Veronika from Travel Geekery
Vietnam
Vietnam is definitely one of the countries in Asia that I enjoyed immensely. I attribute a large part of that to the food. The delicious Banh mi and let’s not forget the Vietnamese coffee…
I would go back just for that. Would I spend my September in Asia here? Without a doubt!
16. Mui Ne
If you consider spending September in Asia then Mui Ne is definitely the place you want to be.
LOCATION: Mui Ne
GETTING THERE: Mui Ne is about a 5 hour bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City.
WHERE TO STAY: Splurge by staying along the oceanside and beaches at the resorts. Otherwise, there are affordable guesthouses starting at $20 USD per night.
Mui Ne is the perfect spot for a getaway from Ho Chi Minh City. As a coastal area of Phan Thiet city, many visitors go to this sleeper town to relax at the resorts and beaches, visit the sand dunes, and eat fresh seafood.
The top attraction in Mui Ne is to go on a Jeep tour either at sunrise or sunset to see four locations. The white and red sand dunes are lovely to walk through due to its super fine sand and contrasting color. For extra fun, you can rent a metal sheet to slide down the dunes.
The Fairy Stream is another stop where you walk in an ankle-deep clay-coloured stream that leads to a small waterfall. Lastly, you visit the fishing village to see the daily catch of the day. We love the tour and have gone on it several times.
If you want another unique activity to try in Mui Ne, practice your kitesurfing skills. The winds are stronger in this area which are ideal conditions. There are plenty of places along the beach that offer lessons for beginners.
During August, the weather is hot and humid with a high of 90℉ (32℃). Although it’s still considered the rainy season, the rain is off-and-on showers and it’ll last for a short period. You won’t need to worry about rain showers that last for hours.
By Jackie and Justin from Life Of Doing
Note: Don’t forget to check out the local tours, transportation hacks and things to do in Mui Ne.
Have you traveled in September in Asia? What were your favorite locations? Let us know in the comments below. We would love to add to our list.
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