I love Asia and I’m always looking for different places to visit Asia and the best time to go to Asia! Along with my travel blogger friends I have put together this list of the best places to visit in Asia in July and best places to visit in Asia in August to help you plan your summer holidays!
July and August bring the Summer holidays for people in the Northern Hemisphere and whether you’re looking to go on a family holiday during the Summer holidays, you’re studying and only have the Summer off, or you want to get away from the heat and crowds in popular European holiday destinations, you may want to spend the Summer in Asia.
However, July and August generally bring the rain and monsoon season to many parts of Asia and if you’re like me this isn’t what you want from a trip!
Best Place to Visit in July and August in Asia
Indonesia is a clear winner as the best place to travel in July and August due to the weather!
A lot of the Indonesian islands will have blue skies and less rainy days making it the perfect country for a Summer holiday destination.
For example, I was in Gilli Trawangan during Christmas and although it was hot, December is the start of the rainy season so we had awful rain on Christmas Day! Whereas May, June, July, August and September practically offer no rain.
Weather in Asia in August and July
In this list of where to go in Asia in July and August, I have recommendations for places in South East Asia, East Asia, Central Asia and the Sub Continent showing that if you have a bit of flexibility you can visit some real gems during July and August in Asia.
Generally, I have tried to pick places where the weather is comfortable so although it may, and most like will be, very hot, it won’t be really humid which is awful weather to travel in!
Also, some countries change depending on where you are, for example, Pakistan in July and August varies a lot. In Lahore and Islamabad where you’d fly into, it’s soo unbearably hot but once you fly to the mountains of Northern Pakistan, it’s beautiful weather!
I’ve also tried to pick places out of the rainy season as generally the rainy season in Asia comes to most countries in July and August which is why it can be so hard to plan a summer holiday in Asia!
You really can’t do a 2 week India trip visiting the likes of Delhi, Rajasthan and the Taj Mahal in July or August, unfortunately!
However, sometimes the heat and a bit of rain aren’t that bad and can really benefit your trip because in the low season, you’ll avoid the crowds and get better prices by visiting these destinations in the Asian Summer months!
I ended up deciding on Sri Lanka in August so let’s see where you’ll book!
INDONESIA
Best in: July
-Gili Islands
The Gili Islands in Indonesia are idyllic year-round but for the best weather on the Gili Islands, I would recommend visiting in July as I did. The days are warm and sunny and perfect for relaxing on the beach or snorkelling.
The peak season runs between June and August and during these months, you can be almost guaranteed sunny dry weather.
There are 3 islands to choose from and I would recommend Gili Air, particularly if you are visiting in July. Gili Air is much quieter than Gili Trawangan which is busy throughout the year but especially so in peak season. Gili Air, by contrast, has just a scattering of hotels and beach bars so even if all the hotels are fully booked, it won’t feel crowded. I would, however, recommend booking well in advance.
Gili Meno is also an option but in my opinion, it is a little too quiet with only 1 or 2 restaurants. It does, however, make the perfect place to escape to for the day and you can catch boats between the islands.
Gili Meno is probably the most beautiful but perhaps a little boring if you plan to stay more than a day or two. Gili Air, in my opinion, has the perfect blend of quiet beaches with the option of finding a lively bar if you want a few cocktails.
Spend your days sunbathing, snorkelling, cycling around the island, enjoying good food and maybe treat yourself to a massage or try some yoga. The Gili Islands are one of the best places to visit in July and I would recommend allocating at least 4 or 5 days in your Indonesia itinerary to visit.
Suggested by: Leanne from The GlobeTrotter GP.
My Related Posts: 30 things to do in Gili T / 3 Day Gili Islands Itinerary / Where to stay in Gili T!
-Bali
Best in: July & August
Visiting Bali during July and August is a great choice as the weather is fantastic. The weather is warm and there is less of a chance that it will rain. It is the high season but not peak season like Christmas time when the prices are very high and the weather not so great.
August is a great time to enjoy Bali due to all the wonderful festivals that take place. Buleleng Festival, Bali International Kite Festival, Ubud Village Jazz Festival and Sanur Village Festival are just a few of the events on offer. The festivals in Bali are a great way to experience the local Balinese culture and cuisine.
During August it is the school term in Australia so you will experience less Australian holidaymakers with their kids. It is of course summer holidays for the Northern Hemisphere families but with longer distances to travel to Bali you don’t really notice as many kids.
Exploring Bali during July and August when the weather is sunny and not too humid will help you to experience all the amazing things Bali has to offer along with all of its amazing hotels!
Suggested by: Kate from Rolling Along With Kids.
My related Post: The BEST 2 Week Itinerary | Bali, Gili Islands and Lombok!
-Sumba Island
Best in: July & August
It doesn’t get more remote than Sumba Island in Indonesia! This gorgeous island boasts a rugged coast that’s lined with palm trees and is unspoiled by development.
July and August are the best times to visit Sumba Island as there’s no rain nor wind and you can enjoy long sunny days on the beach. These months also bring with them the best swell if you’re looking to surf in uncrowded waters.
Sumba Island is a short flight from Bali and whilst it doesn’t have the high influx of tourists as other Indonesian islands, people are quickly discovering the beauty that lies within Sumba. It’s an adventure lovers’ dream destination with towering waterfalls, picturesque lakes, hidden caves and an abundance of traditional villages.
All of this coupled with the unique culture and rich history make Sumba Island an ideal destination if you’re looking to visit Asia in July or August. There isn’t much tourist information online so be sure to check out this travel guide to Sumba before your visit.
Suggested by: Carryn from Torn Tackies.
-Komodo, Flores
Best in: August
Usually visited from Bali or Lombok by boat (although you can also catch a domestic flight from Denpasar airport to Labuan Bajo, Ende or Maumere), Flores and Komodo are one of those destinations in Indonesia that are on the list of any traveller who it boasts.
Although both July and August are good times to visit the Komodo Islands perhaps August is somewhat better if we take the weather into consideration. That said, before going make sure that these islands are open for tourism when you plan to go.
The country’s government – like many others in Southeast Asia – has already begun to take action against mass tourism and the degradation of some of its islands; closing them briefly for cleaning and regeneration.
Once there, the possibilities of things to do in Komodo are many. From visiting the Komodo national park and approaching the mighty Komodo dragons with a park guide, to explore some of the other islands in the area such as the beautiful Pulau Padar (pictured here), Rinca island, and pink beach – which is way less pink than the saturated Instagram images show.
Suggested by: Imma from A World to Travel.
–Munduk
Best in: July & August
The small Balinese village of Munduk is an amazing destination in Indonesia for lovers of the outdoors. It’s a peaceful escape from some of Bali’s busier destinations, such as Ubud and Kuta, making it a wonderful addition to any Bali itinerary.
July and August are some of the busiest months in Bali, making it a great time to visit Munduk to get away from the crowds. On top of that, July and August are some of the least rainy months in the village, which means your stay is unlikely to be hampered by bad weather.
The most popular thing to do in Munduk is to go trekking through the beautiful nature. Undeniably the best hike to do is the Munduk Waterfall trek, which starts from the village and visits 3 nearby waterfalls over the course of a few hours. Other treks are possible too, whether it’s through rice fields or to other smaller waterfalls.
Another great reason to visit Munduk is that it is ideally located to take day trips to attractions in the north of the island. Some of the best spots to visit include Sekumpul waterfall, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple and Banyumala twin waterfall.
As so many of the activities to enjoy in the area involve being outdoors, July and August are perfect months for visiting Munduk!
Suggested by: Sam & Natalia from Something of Freedom.
–Yogyakarta
Best in: July & August
Yogyakarta is an interesting destination, known for its temples and food culture. If you visit in July, you’ll experience the “winter” of Yogyakarta, even though it’s still hot and humid with temperatures of 30°C (86°F) in the daytime.
While some rain is expected year-round in Yogyakarta, July and August are the driest months of the year, which makes it excellent for sightseeing as you won’t have your day ruined by downpours.
July is also in the low-season of visiting Yogyakarta as many international tourists are travelling around Europe at that time of the year, which means fewer crowds and lower prices for tours and accommodation.
As for choosing between July or August, it doesn’t really matter and both months are generally good for exploring Yogyakarta and getting the most out of your money and time. Thanks to fewer crowds and tourists, you’re more likely to get to interact with some locals as well.
Borobudur is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction near Yogyakarta, but a lesser-known place with stunning views is Kalibiru which is just a short car ride away
Suggested by: Alex from Swedish Nomad.
MALAYSIA
-Perhentian Islands
Best in: July & August
The Perhentian Islands are on the East Coast of Malaysia not far from Thailand. In fact, the word ‘Perhentian’ means stopping because they were the stopping island for boats going between Malaysia and Bangkok.
However, these islands are not on the usual South East Asia backpacker trail and are they unique in the fact that they are only open from March to October because this is when the weather is best.
They are made up of 2 islands- a big one (Perhentian Besar) and a small one (Perhentian Kecil). The small Perhentian Island has much more of a backpacker feel with lots of hut and bungalow accommodation whereas the big Perhentian Island is much more popular with families because it has more resorts to stay in and is more built up.
Visiting the Perhentian Islands in July and August is a great time to visit because the weather is the best in the Summer months offering you clear blue skies and hot temperatures. Due to this, this time of year is peak season on the Perhentian Islands so expect more people to visit and book your Perhentian Island accommodation in advance!
I recommend these islands if you want to chill on a beach, learn to dive, go snorkelling and relax in paradise for a few days! And if you’re looking for a cheap holiday in July or August.
Suggested by: Ellie from The Wandering Quinn.
My Related Posts: Travellers Guide to the Small Perhentian Island of Paradise / How Much It Costs to Visit the Perhentian Islands
-Kuching
Best in: July & August
Kuching on the Borneo side of Malaysia makes an excellent base for a stay on this island. You can visit the wildlife rehabilitation centre to see the Orangutans and take a tour to Bako National Park to admire the spectacular scenery and the Proboscis Monkeys.
July and August is the best time of year to visit with Kuching although it will be busy with tourists because it’s peak season. For a quieter getaway to avoid the crowds head to Mulu in the north of Sarawak. Mulu is a Unesco World Heritage site, and the national park has some of the most magnificent caves in the world.
The caves are stunningly beautiful, and the wooden walkways make them easily accessible. The stalactites and stalagmites glisten inside its genuinely spectacular.
The Mulu Marriott Hotel and Spa is the perfect place to relax, surrounded by the green oasis of the jungle. There’s also plenty of wildlife to spot here, especially if you take one of the night walks. The departure of the bats from the caves at dusk provides a spectacular display that’s also not to miss.
Suggested by: Fiona from Passport and Piano.
-Belum
Best in: July
Royal Belum State Park in Malaysia is the best place to visit in Asia in July and August. Firstly, Royal Belum State is located in the state of Perak and crosses into Southern Thailand meaning July is the coldest and driest month in Perak.
Secondly, the state park is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. It’s the perfect place to see tropical plants and wildlife, including monkeys, elephants, wild boards, and cobras. Although chances are slim, you may get a glimpse of Malaysian tigers and the threatened gigantic Rafflesia!
Thirdly, Royal Belum State Park is, in my opinion, one of the most underrated travel destinations in Asia. Unlike other National parks in Malaysia, it remains largely unknown to tourists.
Not to worry though, there are a number of decent resorts nearby the state park to stay in and most resorts offer tour packages that include accommodation, breakfast and excursion. Some of the top activities in Royal Belum State Park are river cruises, trekking to waterfalls, visiting the local tribe, bamboo rafting and fishing.
Suggested by: Ming from Flyerism.
THAILAND
Best in: July
-Koh Samui Archipelago
While it is the rainy season throughout a lot of Thailand during July, there is a slice of paradise off the East Coast where you can enjoy sunny days in July. This is the Koh Samui Archipelago and it consists of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
July is heading towards the dry season around these islands, therefore, I definitely recommend a visit in July rather than August. By travelling to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao in July, you will also be missing the main busy season in Thailand from November- February. That means you can still get wonderfully sunny days as well as cheaper accommodation prices.
There are plenty of things to do on these islands such as the ever-popular Full Moon party held each month in Koh Phangan. This massive event is super popular with backpackers in Thailand. I am not so much of a partier so instead, I hired a scooter to find the top beaches in Koh Phangan.
Though, if you love discovering life underwater Koh Tao provides plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, diving and free diving.
Either way, the gorgeous Koh Samui Archipelago in Thailand has some impressive islands with plenty of things to keep you busy. So, if you are looking for where to go on holiday in July and looking for a cheap holiday destination in July, I highly recommend either Koh Tao, Koh Phangan or Koh Samui.
Suggested by: Tasha Amy from Backpackers Wanderlust.
My Related Posts: Female Packing List For Thailand | What To Pack and Not Pack / How to Visit Koh Samui on a Budget/ 2 Week Thailand Itinerary to see the North & the South Islands!
VIETNAM
Best in: July & August
–Sapa
The summer months are the perfect time to visit Sapa in Northern Vietnam. Sapa’s elevation high up in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountain Range keeps it nice and cool during summer months, which is rare in Southeast Asia.
Due to its unique climate and location, this region only gets one rice crop per year and the terraces are bright green and full of life in July & August. The extensive rice terraces that cover the tall hills and mountains are a photographer’s dream!
Hikers too will love walking through the lush paddies, however, you should bring some gear that can withstand a few raindrops. Even though the temperatures are pleasant it does rain more than the winter months.
One of the best ways to experience Sapa, Vietnam is to hike to and sleep in a local village in a homestay with a Hmong family to get a glimpse into local life here. A trip here in the summer is one you won’t soon forget.
Suggested by: Adam & Hannah from Getting Stamped.
LAOS
Best in: July & August
-Vientiane
While Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, in general, is a laidback city, without the chaos of the other Southeast Asian Cities. In July and August, the crowds are much less on the streets of Vientiane than in the high seasons of October to April. July and August make for the best time to visit Vientiane.
The tourist attractions are not overcrowded, the streets are mellow, hotels are good, and the weather isn’t that bad during
these months with low season bring a little more rainfall and the rise of humidity.
Therefore, if you want to go to a major city in Asia without chaos, no significant high-rise buildings and plenty of cultural attractions to visit. Surely that’s reason enough to put Vientiane on the list when organising your holidays in Asia during the Summer.
In addition to Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng are also good places to visit in Laos in the Summer months of July & August.
Suggested by: Anthony from Fair Dinkum Traveller.
SINGAPORE
Best in: July & August
Singapore in July and August is the time just before the rain starts to fall hard, but it’s also a time of joyous celebration. The first major party that you should know about is National Day, annually falling on August 9. It is a day of national pride as it commemorates Singapore’s independence from Malaysia, which they received in 1965.
There is a wonderful parade (NDP), an address by the Prime Minister of Singapore. But the reason you’d want to visit is the fireworks celebrations. The year 2019 is particularly important as it is the bicentennial. The entire city-state will be lit up with the most miraculous displays of light and pyrotechnics. And the best part… it’s free to view.
If you’re a shopaholic, the months between June and July is the annual Great Singapore Sale. This is a 5 week extravaganza when the entire country slashes their prices to up to 70% off. The best place to go during the sale, Orchard Road of course.
This street is lined with massive malls that get super packed on weekends. So go during the week if you can. You can also visit the less flash shops in Chinatown, Kampong Glam, Little India, particularly Haji Lane for boutique stores.
Suggested by: Callan from Once in a Lifetime Journey.
PAKISTAN
Best in: July & August
-Northern Areas
If you want some Mountain adventures in July and August you need to consider Pakistan! Pakistan in July and August is the perfect time to head to the Northern Mountains in Pakistan because the sun will be out, flowers will be in bloom and the mountains are open for you to hike and explore.
I’d recommend Skardu and Hunza as the best places to visit in Pakistan to start with. There are so many places to visit in the Northern areas of Pakistan and although I do recommend following an itinerary similar to this 2 week Pakistan itinerary, I do also recommend keeping your plans flexible and free as the more you see in Pakistan, the more you want to see!
The Southern areas of Pakistan including Islamabad will be hot in July and August and probably a bit wet due to the monsoon season and this will only intensify as you go South, so fly into Islamabad and get up North in Pakistan asap and spend as long as you can seeing this incredible country that is only just waking up to tourism!
Suggested by: Ellie from The Wandering Quinn.
My Related Posts: 10 Things To Know BEFORE You Go to Pakistan / 2 Week Itinerary for Pakistan | Best Places to Visit on Your First Trip!
SRI LANKA
Best in: July & August
When planning your backpacking Sri Lanka adventure, you’ll quickly realize that there’s not just one optimal time to visit this small island, just off the coast of India. While other countries in Asia have a clear division of dry season and rainy season, there are different climate zones within Sri Lanka.
If you’re ready for an island escape in Asia in July and August, make sure to focus your itinerary on the North as well as the East part of the country, since this is the best time to visit these regions of Sri Lanka.
That being said, during my travels around Sri Lanka in July 2018, I also visited the Southern coast to places such as Galle and Mirissa. Although it was very hot, I was pretty lucky and didn’t see any rain for a whole week!
Further, I was also able to take full advantage of travelling the southern coast off-season – there were no tourist crowds and the streets of Galle were very quiet, especially compared to other touristic places that I visited in Sri Lanka.
My recommendation for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in July and August? Focus on the East and North, but keep your days flexible and if the forecasts predicts sunshine and little rain for your time, make sure to include the Southern coast as well in your Sri Lanka itinerary!
Suggested by: Patrick from German Backpacker.
My Related Posts: Visiting Sri Lanka in August | Weather in Sri Lanka / Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka on Your First Trip!
MALDIVES
Best in: July & August
The Maldives is a good country to visit all year round meaning July and August are also great months to visit the Maldives. You can spend the morning watching the sun come up and listening to the ocean from the overwater villas and the temperatures hover over a balmy 80F year-round.
You are guaranteed a magical time in the Maldives anywhere you stay on any of the islands, the water is crystal clear, there is abundant marine life and the people are friendly. With so many resorts it is hard to pick just one, but the water swing at Taj Exotica Resort and Spa sold us!
The resort is located on the Emboodhu Finolhu Island which used to be called ‘Three Coconut Island’ is in the middle of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. Our family spent 5 days here and would love to go back to spend a week or two exploring the other islands that make up the Maldives.
We flew from Chennai to Male through Colombo on SriLankan Airlines. Taj Exotica is located not too far from the Malé airport and is just a 20-minute boat ride away, no need for any seaplanes to get here.
Suggested by: Priya from Outside Suburbia.
INDIA
Best in: July & August
-Kerala
Most people choose to visit tropical destinations like Kerala, in South India, in the winter, when they want to escape cooler climates. But then there are more romantic souls, who opt to go in the monsoon season to experience that special magic the rains bring.
Kerala is a state in South India that is warm and tropical all year ‘round. It is blessed with gorgeous beaches, lush forests, a system of backwaters that are home to a unique culture, and a cooler, mountainous highland region that provides ideal conditions for a myriad of spice, tea, and coffee plantations.
There are many great places to visit in Kerala all year ‘round, but monsoon is a special time. The monsoon rains hit Kerala in early June, and continue for most of the summer months – June, July, and August.
I spent a week during monsoon at a resort in the Kerala backwaters once, and I loved the bountiful lushness, and the way the sky, lake, and canals all blended together like a giant watercolour painting. It’s very hard to describe the peaceful ambience, and how relaxed I felt in this atmosphere.
Almost like being suspended between earth and water, calmed by a lullaby of pattering rain, and secure in the feeling that there was no need to go anywhere or do anything.
Suggested by: Mariellen from Breathe Dream Go.
–Matheran
Best in: July & August
Matheran (Meaning Forest on the Forehead) is the cutest hill station, located 90 km from Mumbai in the lap of the Sahyadris mountain ranges well away from the hustle-bustle of city life. It gets heavy rainfall during the monsoon season ranging from May-August.
However, a good reason to visit Matheran in Monsoon season is because of its natural landscape. One can encounter amazing waterfalls with a height ranging from 10 to 100 meter during July and August.
Some very popular tourist points in Matheran include Echo Point, Alexander Louisa The point, Panorama Point, and Porcupine Point. To preserve the surroundings and environment, the hill station has been declared an ECO-ZONE which means no vehicles are allowed leaving an only way to roam around is wither walking or cycling or riding horses.
The town has no road, so it’s all rock and red soil with a natural terrain ideal for hiking and adventure seekers. A traveller may get close to monkeys and various species of birds at any point of their trip.
It is a favourite destination among locals for a day trip or longer to get close with nature in peace. Every traveller, photographer and nature seeker should once experience this alluring place in the rainy season.
Suggested by: Chandresh from Family on the Wheels.
-Sikkim
Best in: August
Sikkim the state in North East India, looks heavenly in the Monsoon Season in July and August. It is a time when the mother nature wakes up from deep sleep and starts rejuvenating. The continuous rains make the landscapes look lush green and valleys get beautifully covered with clouds.
The new fresh green leaves start budding, forests becomes dense, Lakes start roaring in full swing and birds make it a chirpy heaven. There is just a feeling of freshness and livelihood in the whole environment.
Sikkim during the monsoon season is the offseason, and this is a good time to visit because there is not a high demand for accommodation and resources are dirt cheap.
The weather in Sikkim in July and August is extremely pleasant and temperatures range between 4 – 15 degree Celsius. In North Sikkim, you will feel that the mother nature has opened up its arm just for you.
We recommend visiting this place in August as compared to July as the amount of rains decreases and so does the chance of encountering landslides. Check the complete itinerary of Darjeeling Sikkim Tour here.
Suggested by: Suruchi from All Gud Things.
JAPAN
Best in: July
-Kyoto
Although the beginning of July in Japan is when the hot and humid summer starts, our five-days stay in Kyoto in July was very pleasant and enjoyable.
During our visit, Kyoto seemed a lazy and sleepy city and not as busy as we expected, in fact, there was almost no one visiting the famous bamboo forest at that time! Who knows, maybe we were just lucky.
On several nights during our stay in Kyoto in July it rained quite intensively, but throughout the day we only had to use an umbrella twice. We also carried a small towel, as humid air made us sweat more than usual.
Throughout the day the sky was quite cloudy, so our photos from Kyoto seem a bit hazy, but still, it was not a big issue for us.
When it was getting too hot and stuffy, to cool down we drank a lot of cold green tea, ate matcha flavoured ice creams, and rested in the shade of trees. Kyoto is definitely our favourite city in Japan, and we won’t hesitate to visit it in the summer again.
Suggested by: Marta and Milosz from Backpackers.wro.
My Related Posts: How to take a Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto | 1 Day Itinerary / 2 Week Japan Itinerary for Your First Visit to Japan / How to Use a Japan Rail Pass – All You Need To Know!
Tours in Kyoto to book to help you explore the amazing place with a guide:
–Tokyo
Best in: July & August
Tokyo is hardly a well-kept secret but there is a special reason to visit Tokyo in July and August: Fuji.
This icon of Japan can be seen on a clear day from a few spots in the city, but during the summer months only, you can climb right the way to the top, passing through scarlet torii gates as you go. After that, the path is closed and you need to wait another year.
The climb itself doesn’t require technical skills but it does require good footwear and a decent level of fitness as you’ll be walking over uneven ground and climbing to 3776 metres.
You can climb Fuji in a day but the more popular way to climb Mount Fuji is to join the crowds and climb at night to see the sunrise from the mountain peak.
So, what should you do for the rest of your time in Japan in July and August? You can easily fill an itinerary with five days in Tokyo before activating a Japan Rail Pass and travelling on to see more of the country.
Summer in Japan allows you to linger in the gardens and enjoy the shade of the temples. A chance to refresh and recharge before heading back into the frenetic parts of Tokyo.
Suggest by: Abigail from Inside the Travel Lab.
TAIWAN
-Penghu Islands
If Taiwan is Asia’s best-kept secret destination, Penghu is its paradise island only insiders know. While the mainland of Taiwan is suffering from heatwaves during the summer the Penghu islands become the perfect getaway destination from the city to cool off and relax by the crystal clear water.
Penghu is a group of 90 islands and islets in the west of Taiwan Strait. Naturally, the islands feature many gorgeous sandy beaches with emerald water.
The best part is that they rarely get crowded, especially the ones off the uninhabited islands. You can relax by the uncrowded seaside or swim in the unpolluted water. Or, even go island-hopping on a boat.
While the island’s notorious wind makes a hostile living environment in winter, it becomes an ideal place to catch the waves for surfing and windsurfing enthusiasts in summer. Again, it’s only known to a small circle of insiders, which means you don’t need to fight for your spot.
Penghu also has the world’s first submarine postbox you can dive or underwater helmet-walk to send a waterproof postcard. Deep-sea fishing is popular here too.
Does Penghu sound like your perfect summer getaway destination in Asia? Wait until you check out this list of uncrowded, stunning beaches in Taiwan and the best time to visit.
Suggested by: Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue.
My Related Posts: 16 Places to Visit in Taiwan | Tourist Spots / 2 Week Taiwan Itinerary / 1 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
KAZAKHSTAN
Best in: July & August
One of the best, and most forgotten about, places to visit in Asia during July and August is the Central Asian country of Kazakhstan. The winter months are an extreme version of cold that many people have probably never felt anything like but the summer months are pleasantly hot and surprisingly tolerable.
The capital of Nur-Sultan is the second coldest capital city in the world during the winters but the summers are warm on the steppe and it gives Nur-Sultan a new life during July and August. Autumn can come quickly and sometimes even in September, so it is best to get your fill of Kazakhstan during the summer.
Almaty, the country’s southeastern mega-city is cold in the winters and because it is surrounded by mountains, it can be rather inaccessible during the winter months. July and August are the perfect time to go to Almaty and to explore the city’s scenery, vibrant cafe scene, and must more.
Many people may flock to the beaches of southeast Asia or for a culinary adventure in India, but Kazakhstan is a great alternative as it has lakes, seas, deserts, canyons, and amazing food culture… without all the tourists.
Suggested by: Megan from Megan Starr.
UZBEKISTAN
Best in: July & August
If you mention the name Uzbekistan as a travel destination you can be guaranteed that most people will wonder why you would wish to visit there. It is, however, a very good Asian destination to visit during the summer due to its arid land, beautiful landscapes and minimal amounts of rain.
Travelling in Uzbekistan will take you across the former Silk Road and you can certainly visit the silk factories in Khiva and Bukhara. Equally impressive are the carpet making factories of Khiva and the elaborate embroidery, suzani, found in Bukhara and Samarkand which is difficult to resist buying!
The walled city of Bukhara feels as though it is part of a film set with its vast towers and romanticism. It is truly stunning! Monuments such as the Chor Minor with its turquoise domes will mesmerise you with their beauty!
There is also the option of visiting the mountain areas as respite from the heat and exploring the traditional cultures with an overnight stay in a yurt in Nurata. Plus, you could also take a camel ride through the desert to break up the journey.
The summer palace of Alim Khan is also a worthwhile stop. There are so many activities to partake in witha visit to Uzbekistan and the food is also scrumptious with the national, rice-based dish of Plov to try. The non-bread also features on daily menus with different regional designs!
The landscapes alone are spectacular with very mesmerising views including a visit to the fortress that Alexander the Great had located in Nurata, which is a desert area. Furthermore, petroglyphs can be viewed at Sarmysh Gorge. Uzbekistan is certainly a destination that you will always talk about and remember fondly.
Suggested by: Latoya from Franglais27 Tales.
MONGOLIA
Best in: July & August
Ulaanbaatar is a fascinating place to visit at any time of year but July and August bring long, hot sunny days and light evenings so you can make the most of your sightseeing days.
In the middle of July, Mongolians gather throughout the country for the nations’ biggest festival, Naadam, a rousing and colourful spectacle celebrating the traditional sporting abilities of the nomadic tribes and Mongolian people.
However, if you visit in August, Ulaanbaatar (and the rest of Mongolia) will be quieter and accommodation will be cheaper and easier to find. Explore the museums, historic and religious sights of Ulaanbaatar such as Gandantegchenling Monastery with its enormous standing Buddha.
The summer months are an ideal time for a trip to the Mongolian steppe to see the impressive Genghis Khan statue and the scenic Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. The open, exposed steppe is easier to visit in summer than in winter and you can enjoy hiking, cycling and horse riding activities.
Stay with a local family in one of their yurts or ‘gers’ where the clear night skies of summer will provide you with amazing star-filled skies.
Suggested by: Sinead from Map Made Memories.
RUSSIA
Best in: July & August
-Lake Bikal
Lake Baikal is one of the best places in Russia to get out of the cities and experience the country’s vast expanses of unadulterated nature. It’s the oldest and deepest lake in the world, and the largest freshwater lake in the world. But since the lake is in Siberia, the climate is bitterly cold outside of the summer season. In fact, it’s completely frozen over for four to five months of the year!
If you want to go hiking or camping, the window of opportunity is fairly short, and July and August are the best months. It’s possible to swim in the lake too, but be prepared for some very cold water!
There’s a fabulous hiking trail called the Great Baikal Trail, which hugs the shoreline along the cliffs between Listvyanka and Bolshoie Koty. The trail is about 22 kilometers long and takes five to eight hours to complete.
Foreign tourists usually visit Lake Baikal as part of a longer trip by train along the Trans-Siberian Railway, taking in other sights along the way, such as the Kremlin of Kazan and the Boris Yeltsin Center in Yekaterinburg.
If you want to visit just the lake, you should fly into Irkutsk, which is about 70 kilometers from Listvyanka. From there, you can take a minibus or a ferry to reach the lake.
Suggested by: Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan.
And there you have it! I hope you can now work out where will be the best place to travel in July and August to get good weather and small crowds whilst the Summer Holidays are happening!
- If you want to do more research, here are my Asia blog posts:
- ALL THAILAND POSTS
- ALL INDIA POSTS
- ALL MALAYSIA POSTS
- ALL INDONESIA POSTS
- ALL VIETNAM POSTS
- ALL TAIWAN POSTS
- ALL JAPAN POSTS
Stephanie
Tuesday 14th of January 2020
Hi there! we traveled last summer for 3 months in SE Asia.(Thailand, Laos,Cambodia and Vietnam) and from Laos Vientiane(capital) is basically just a stopover city to travel through to other amazing places this country has to offer, Laos is still very virgin and unknown so now is the time to go as it’s un ruined by tourism, for example if you are coming from Thailand you should do a 2 day boat trip to Luang Prabang and spend some time in this impressive city as there are over 50 temples here to visit, the food, the markets, the people!!! also the Kuang si falls. Vang Vieng is the “touristy area “ amazing, and beautiful nature and has lots of super cool activities yo offer, from zip lining to kayak to going in donuts in caves, to cheap buggy rides to the lakes through the rice fieds. and at last the 3000 islands on the mekong delta, also an amazing place to visit, in the middle of nowhere you suddenly find theese beautiful virgin islands with also. a lot to offer. So please change the part of Vientiane and include theese amazing spots. it’s also one of the cheapest places in Asia, cheaper then Thailand and Vietnam!!
TheWanderingQuinn
Monday 3rd of February 2020
Thank you for this, thats so good to hear! I will add them in! :)
Emily Laws
Friday 20th of September 2019
Mongolia has the most beautiful landscapes I have ever visited, I remember that with my friends we did a picnic and we all loved the idea of returning as soon as possible. (we have not returned to for work :(((((( so sad hahahahah).
TheWanderingQuinn
Wednesday 16th of October 2019
Ah wow that's so good to know! I do plan to go there next year!!
L - Franglais27
Saturday 10th of August 2019
Love this post! I quite often consider travelling to Asia in July/ August as I typically have my longer holiday then. I have probably been quite fortunate in avoiding heavy rains whilst visiting Vietnam, Cambodia, China and other places in that time. Uzbekistan is also quite good to visit during the summer months and Georgia and Armenia which are on that cusp of Europe and Asia.
TheWanderingQuinn
Saturday 10th of August 2019
That’s great to know and good to know you enjoyed Georgia and Armenia at this time of year, I thought it might be quite hot there. If you want to write a piece to add to the post with a photo just pop me an email on [email protected] :)