Best must-see destinations in Asia

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Asia's must-see destinations span an extraordinary range of experience, from the ancient temple complexes and imperial cities of East and Southeast Asia to the Himalayan landscapes of the subcontinent and the volcanic island chains of the Pacific rim. The continent contains a disproportionate share of the world's most visited sites and the infrastructure around the best-known destinations is well developed, with transport links, accommodation and guided access mature across most of the major circuits.

The density of significant destinations within individual countries rewards extended itineraries that move slowly rather than covering maximum ground. Several of the continent's most celebrated sites require permits or managed access and advance booking is essential during peak season. Lesser-known destinations within easy reach of the headline sites often deliver comparable quality with a fraction of the visitor numbers.

Visa requirements, health precautions and seasonal timing vary considerably across a continent that spans dozens of countries and climate zones, and research specific to each destination is essential rather than optional. Overtourism is a serious issue at the most celebrated sites and early morning visits make a practical difference to both access and atmosphere. Your money goes a long way across much of the continent making extended multi-country itineraries practical on modest budgets.