The Cheapest Countries to visit in Asia 2023

Are you dreaming of a trip to Asia but worried about the costs? The good news is that there are plenty of affordable destinations in Asia that won't break the bank. From the bustling cities of Southeast Asia to the stunning beaches of South Asia, there's no shortage of budget-friendly destinations to explore. In this article, we'll recommend cheap places to travel in Asia and some budget-friendly activities in these countries and provide tips on how to make the most of your trip without spending a fortune.

 

The Cheapest Countries to visit in Asia - Overview

• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Cambodia
• Myanmar (Burma)
• Nepal
• Laos

 

 

1. Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, and for good reason. With beautiful beaches, fascinating culture, and delicious food, Thailand is a great destination for travelers on a budget. Here are some cheap places to travel in Thailand and budget-friendly activities to do:

 

 

I. Cheap Places to Travel
A. Chiang Mai: Known as the cultural capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a great destination for travelers seeking an authentic Thai experience. Activities like exploring the Old City, visiting the temples, and hiking in the nearby mountains are all affordable and offer unique experiences.

B. Koh Chang: Known as “Elephant Island” named because of its elephant shaped headland, is Thailand’s third largest island after Phuket and Samui. In addition to luxury resorts and charming beaches, Koh Chang has plenty to explore: kayaking, jungle trekking, diving and snorkeling are some of the more popular activities.

C. Bangkok: Thailand's capital city may seem like a bustling metropolis, but it's also a great destination for budget travelers. Accommodations are affordable, with options like hostels and budget hotels. Street food is plentiful and delicious, and many of the city's main attractions, like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, have low admission fees.

D. Ayutthaya: This ancient city was once the capital of Thailand and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Budget-friendly accommodations are available in the nearby town, and entrance fees to the many temple ruins are low. Biking around the ruins and exploring the local markets are also affordable ways to experience the city's rich history and culture.

 

II. Budget-Friendly Activities
A. For nature lovers, Khao Sok National Park is a great option, with its lush jungles, lakes and waterfalls. 

B. Visiting Kanchanaburi, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Krabi.  

C. In the north, travellers can experience the culture and adventure of Chiang Mai, explore the Elephant Nature Park, and enjoy the festivities of the Thai New Year festival, Songkran.

 

• DAILY BUDGET for BACKPACKER: Around $26 per person
• Accommodation: Starting at $4 per night
• Meals: Around $4

 

 

2. Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful country with stunning natural landscapes, from the iconic Halong Bay to the picturesque Sapa. To save money on food, be sure to try the delicious street food options, which are not only cheap but also some of the best food in Vietnam.

 

 

I. Cheap Places to Travel
A. Hanoi: Vietnam's capital city is a great destination for budget travelers, with affordable accommodations ranging from guesthouses to budget hotels. Street food is plentiful and delicious, and many of the city's main attractions, like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, have low admission fees. 

B. Hoi An: This small city in central Vietnam is known for its well-preserved ancient town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of local boats to charter at the docks, which you can hire for a day of fishing or cruising along the tranquil river. There are also plenty of local restaurants and cafes to enjoy. Cua Dai Beach offers a relaxing seaside escape from the old streets of Hoi An.

C. Sapa: This mountainous region in northern Vietnam is known for its stunning rice terraces and cultural diversity. The region is home to numerous ethnic minority groups, like the Hmong, and is popular among hikers and adventurers who come to explore its stunning landscape. The area is also known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and rural villages, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

D. Da Lat: This city in the central highlands of Vietnam is known for its cooler climate and scenic views. Taking a cable car to the top of Lang Biang Mountain and visiting the local flower farms are also affordable activities.
E. Phu Quoc: This island in the south of Vietnam is a great destination for budget travelers seeking a beach getaway. Activities like snorkeling, hiking, and exploring the local markets are all budget-friendly.

II. Budget-Friendly Activities
A. Experience the local culture by visiting the local markets, exploring the traditional villages and biking around the countryside. Taking a cooking class or getting custom-made clothing at one of the town's many tailors are also affordable activities.

B. Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country's history and the famous Cu Chi Tunnels.

C. For a unique experience, try the water puppet show at Thang Long Theatre or a Sleeper Train trip. If you're looking for a peaceful day out, you can go to Hoi An Ancient Town, Lake Hoan Kiem or one of the many waterfalls in the area.

 

• DAILY BUDGET for BACKPACKER: Around $20 per person
• Accommodation: Starting at $3.5 per night
• Meals: Around $4

 

 

3. Cambodia

Cambodia is a country located in the southern portion of the Indochinese Peninsula in Southeast Asia. The country is known for its lush green forests and picturesque beaches as well as its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. Here are some recommendations:

 

 

I. Cheap Places to Travel
A. Siem Reap: The gateway to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, and it's a great place to base yourself while exploring the area. There are plenty of affordable hostels and guesthouses in Siem Reap, and street food is readily available. You can hire a tuk-tuk to take you to the temples, and a day pass to Angkor Wat costs around $37.

B. Phnom Penh: The Cambodia's capital city and it's a great place to experience the country's culture and history. You can visit the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. There are plenty of affordable guesthouses and restaurants in Phnom Penh.

C. Kampot: A laid-back riverside town known for its pepper plantations and beautiful scenery. You can rent a bike and explore the countryside, take a boat tour on the river, or visit Bokor Hill Station, a French colonial-era resort town. There are plenty of affordable guesthouses and restaurants in Kampot.

D. Sihanoukville: A coastal city with beautiful beaches and plenty of affordable guesthouses and restaurants. You can go snorkeling or scuba diving, take a boat tour to nearby islands, or simply relax on the beach.

 

II. Budget-Friendly Activities
A. Exploring local markets: Cambodia's markets are colorful, bustling, and full of local flavor. You can buy fresh produce, street food, and souvenirs for very reasonable prices.

B. Visiting temples: Cambodia is famous for its ancient temples, and many of them are open to the public for free or for a small fee.

C. Trying street food: Cambodian street food is delicious and affordable, and it's a great way to experience the local culture. Famous street food such as "lap cha", "num banh chok", "banh baeo".

D. Taking a cooking class: Many restaurants and cooking schools in Cambodia offer affordable cooking classes where you can learn to make traditional Cambodian dishes.

 

• DAILY BUDGET for BACKPACKER: Around $18 per person
• Accommodation: Starting at $2 per night
• Meals: Around $3

 

 

4. Myanmar (Burma)

Myanmar is a beautiful and diverse country with many affordable travel options and activities. Here are some recommendations:

 

 

I. Cheap Places to Travel
A. Bagan: Bagan is home to over 2,000 ancient temples and pagodas, and it's a must-visit destination in Myanmar. There are plenty of affordable guesthouses and restaurants in the area. You can rent an e-bike to explore the temples or take a hot air balloon ride over the area at sunrise.

B. Mandalay: Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar and it's a great place to experience the country's culture and history. You can visit the Mandalay Palace, the Shwenandaw Monastery, and the U Bein Bridge. 

C. Inle Lake: Inle Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by mountains and traditional villages. You can take a boat tour of the lake, visit the floating markets and gardens, and see the famous leg-rowing fishermen.

D. Yangon: Yangon is Myanmar's largest city and it's home to the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. You can also visit the Bogyoke Aung San Market and the Sule Pagoda.

 

II. Budget-Friendly Activities
A. Exploring local markets: Myanmar's markets are vibrant and full of local flavor. You can buy fresh produce, street food, and souvenirs for very reasonable prices. 

B. Visiting temples: Myanmar is home to thousands of ancient temples and pagodas, many of which are open to the public for free or for a small fee. 

C. Trying street food: Myanmar's street food is delicious and affordable, and it's a great way to experience the local culture.

D. Taking a cooking class: Many restaurants and cooking schools in Myanmar offer affordable cooking classes where you can learn to make traditional Burmese dishes. 

E. Trekking: Myanmar has many beautiful hiking trails, including the Kalaw to Inle Lake trek, which is a great way to experience the countryside and traditional villages.

 

• DAILY BUDGET for BACKPACKER: Around $24 per person
• Accommodation: Starting at $6 per night
• Meals: Around $3

 

 

5. Nepal

Nepal is a beautiful country known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, ancient temples, and diverse culture. For budget-conscious travelers, Nepal is an excellent destination as there are many affordable options for accommodation, food, and activities. Here are some recommendations for cheap places to travel in Nepal and budget-friendly activities to enjoy:

 

 

I. Cheap Places to Travel
A. Kathmandu - The bustling capital city is home to many budget guesthouses and cheap local eateries. The city's Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see attraction. 

B. Pokhara - The scenic lakeside town is the gateway to the Annapurna range of the Himalayas. There are many affordable lodges and guesthouses to stay in while enjoying the beautiful scenery. 

C. Chitwan National Park - The park is a wildlife reserve that is home to endangered species such as tigers and one-horned rhinos. There are budget-friendly accommodations available in the nearby town of Sauraha.

 

II. Budget-Friendly Activities
A. Trekking - Nepal is famous for its many trekking routes, and there are many budget options for treks such as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Langtang Valley Trek. 

B. Cultural Tours - There are many ancient temples and cultural sites to visit in Nepal, such as the Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Entrance fees are generally low, and there are budget tour options available. 

C. Street Food - Nepal has a rich culinary culture, and street food is an excellent way to taste local dishes on a budget. Popular dishes include momos, dal bhat, and samosas.

 

• DAILY BUDGET for BACKPACKER: Around $16 per person
• Accommodation: Starting at $2 per night
• Meals: Around $3

 

 

6. Laos

Laos is an undiscovered gem in Southeast Asia, offering travelers a unique combination of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. With lush jungles, towering mountains, and an abundance of rivers, Laos is a paradise for outdoor adventurers and an excellent destination for travelers on a budget.

 

 

I. Cheap Places to Travel
A. Luang Prabang: A charming city in northern Laos that is known for its temples and French colonial architecture. You can visit the Night Market, climb Mount Phousi, and take a boat ride on the Mekong River. 

B.Vang Vieng: A small town in central Laos that is surrounded by stunning karst mountains and rivers. You can go tubing, kayaking, or caving, and explore the nearby countryside.

C. Vientiane: The capital city of Laos and it's a great place to experience the country's culture and history. You can visit the Patuxai monument, the Buddha Park, and the COPE Visitor Centre. 

D. Pakse: A city in southern Laos that is known for its coffee plantations and the nearby Bolaven Plateau. You can visit the Tad Fane Waterfall, the Pakse Night Market, and the Wat Phou temple.

 

II. Budget-Friendly Activities
A. Exploring local markets: Laos's markets are colorful and full of local flavor. You can buy fresh produce, street food, and souvenirs for very reasonable prices. 

B. Visiting temples: Laos is home to many ancient temples and pagodas, and many of them are open to the public for free or for a small fee. 

C. Trying street food: Laos's street food is delicious and affordable, and it's a great way to experience the local culture.  

D. Trekking: Laos has many beautiful hiking trails, including the Luang Namtha trek, which is a great way to experience the countryside and traditional villages.

 

• DAILY BUDGET for BACKPACKER: Around $16 per person
• Accommodation: Starting at $2 per night
• Meals: Around $2

 

 

In conclusion, traveling to Asia on a budget is possible, and there are many affordable destinations to explore. With careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all that Asia has to offer without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, or delicious food, there's something for everyone in these budget-friendly destinations. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the cheapest countries to visit in Asia!