Natural Wonders in Southeast Asia

Whether your heart races at the thought of spelunking into the unknown or craves the serenity of river tubing, Southeast Asia unfolds as a veritable trove for nature enthusiasts of all stripes.

While urban landscapes burgeon with soaring skyscrapers across Southeast Asia, the region’s quintessential allure lies in its natural spectacles. From cavernous expanses to majestic waterfalls, these countries showcase the indomitable prowess of Mother Nature. Encompassing the lands of Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, we have distilled our top picks into a compendium of 25 natural marvels.

Vietnam

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, an ethereal expanse dotted with approximately 2,000 islets over nearly 600 square miles, has rightfully earned its place among the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Designated a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, its floating limestone mountains and emerald-green waters conjure scenes from “Avatar” and have graced films like “Kong: Skull Island” and “Pan.” Situated in northern Vietnam, visitors can embark on junk-boat voyages that offer daily and multi-day excursions, including kayaking, spelunking, and explorations of the remaining fishing villages within the bay.

Sa Pả

Nestled in the northwestern mountains of Vietnam, Sa Pả is famed for Fan Si Pan, the highest peak in the country, alongside picturesque rice terraces and indigenous tribal communities. Sa Pả offers adventurous trekking amidst its stunning natural vistas, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both physical exertion and the region’s unique flora and fauna. For those who desire luxury amid nature, numerous spas and resorts provide breathtaking views of the verdant rice fields and mountains.

Phong Nha Caves

Phong Nha, home to one of the largest underground rivers and an expansive subterranean lake, is an essential stop for northern Vietnam explorers. Situated within the Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the caves serve as the park’s centerpiece. The park’s name, translating to “wind and teeth,” alludes to the main cave’s stalactites and stalagmites, reminiscent of monstrous fangs. Intriguingly, only about one percent of the park’s 300 caves have been explored.

Son Ðoòng Cave

Son Ðoòng Cave, the world’s largest cave, was sculpted by underwater streams over three million years ago and opened to the public in 2013. This colossal cave, measuring five miles long and over 600 feet high, houses its own subterranean ecosystem. Fewer people have ventured into Son Ðoòng than have ascended the Empire State Building, making it a coveted bragging right.

The Sand Dunes of Mui Ne

Mui Ne, located four hours from Ho Chi Minh City, boasts both Red and White Dunes as well as the Fairy Stream, a favorite Instagram spot. The dunes offer prime boarding and sledding opportunities, while the Fairy Stream, flanked by greenery, is a sandy path of red hues. Capturing the sunset from the red dunes is highly recommended for its mesmerizing reflection of the sun’s rays on the colored sands.

Silver Falls

Approximately thirty minutes from Sa Pả, Silver Falls, also known as Thac Bac Waterfalls, gleams with a silver-white sheen. Reaching the falls requires a trek through rugged terrain and dense Vietnamese jungle, but the sight is well worth the journey.

Ba Vi National Park

Ba Vi National Park, a haven spread across a tri-capped mountain range veiled in clouds, is the perfect nature retreat near Hanoi. The park features two temples atop its peaks: Bac Ho and Tan Vien, the latter home to a shrine dedicated to the Mountain God. Active visitors can hike or bike to these sites, or alternatively, drive up the mountains.

 

Thailand

Thi Lo Su Waterfall

Thailand’s tallest waterfall, Thi Lo Su, towers over 800 feet and spans nearly 1,500 feet in width. Vehicles are not permitted within the park; however, local transportation will bring you close, followed by a thirty-minute jungle trek. The effort is rewarded with the sight of this majestic cascade.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Encompassing the Himalayas, myriad waterfalls, hiking trails, and a flower garden, Doi Inthanon National Park epitomizes natural splendor. Named after King Inthawichayanon of Chiang Mai, it also includes Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon.

Bua Thong Waterfall

Dubbed the Sticky Waterfalls due to their unique, grippy texture, Bua Thong allows visitors to climb its rocks with ease, thanks to a calcium-rich spring preventing algae growth. The park offers five waterfall levels, nature trails, picnic areas, and natural pools.

Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay in Phuket, famous for its appearance in “The Man with the Golden Gun,” captivates visitors with limestone karsts jutting from turquoise waters. Kayaks and paddleboards offer the best means to explore its caverns and secluded nooks.

Mae Hong Son

Mae Hong Son, a remote city near Myanmar’s border, beckons adventurers with jungle treks and houses the Namtok Mae Surin National Park. This region’s attractions include the ‘Nam Hu Hai Jai Cave and the Mae Surin Waterfall.

Phae Muang Phi Canyon

Once a sacred site for ancient villagers, Phae Muang Phi Canyon now draws tourists with its 100-foot-tall rock shelves formed by sandstone erosion. The park also features numerous nature walks, trails, and gardens with rare northwestern Thailand plants.

Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat

A testament to human ingenuity, Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat integrates nature into its design. Monks constructed temples atop mountain peaks to honor King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 50th throne anniversary. Visitors marvel at the floating pagodas, painstakingly built by hand.

Red Lotus Sea

Nong Han Kumphawapi Lake, or the Red Lotus Sea, transforms into a magical spectacle from November to February as it blooms with pink lotus flowers. Boat rides through narrow channels offer the best view of this vibrant floral display.

Pai Canyon

A favored spot for backpackers, Pai offers hot springs, mountains, and dramatic canyons. The journey from Chiang Mai is a scenic four-hour drive through jungle and countryside. The laid-back atmosphere contrasts with Thailand’s bustling cities.

Laos

Mekong River

The Mekong River, which meanders through several Southeast Asian countries, is best experienced in Laos. Starting from Huay-Xai, the river cruise offers views of Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos, and delves into the opium trade history and the collaborative efforts to curb it.

Tham Khong Lor Cave

Tham Khong Lor Cave, accessible from Tha Khek, offers a surreal boat ride through a lengthy, dark tunnel emerging into a lush green river landscape. This adventure, situated in Phu Hin Bun National Park, promises an otherworldly experience.

Kuang Si Falls

A tuk-tuk ride from Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls cascades in milky-blue tiers, forming inviting pools for a refreshing dip. Hiking to the top reveals quieter spots and panoramic views of the Lao countryside.

Si Phan Don

Si Phan Don, meaning “4,000 islands,” is a tranquil archipelago in the Mekong River. The islands range from tiny boulders to inhabited lands, with Don Det, Don Khon, and Don Khong being the most frequented. Visitors can book overwater bungalows and rent kayaks for exploration.

Nam Song River

The Nam Song River offers a laid-back tubing experience. Once a wild party spot, it has transformed into a serene oasis with safety modifications. Kayaks are also available for those preferring a more active adventure.

 

Cambodia

Tonle Sap Lake

Tonle Sap, one of Southeast Asia’s largest lakes, undergoes seasonal expansions and contractions. Its tributary’s annual flow reversal is celebrated in November with Bon Om Touk. Tours vary by season, with rainy season tours offering insights into lake life and dry season tours exploring the exposed lakebed.

Virachey National Park

Virachey National Park, Cambodia’s largest protected area, shelters rare species like Asian elephants, gibbons, and sun bears. Organizing a tour is essential as solo exploration is prohibited to protect the park’s delicate ecosystem.

Sihanoukville Beaches

Cambodia’s coastal cities, particularly Sihanoukville, offer pristine, untouristed beaches with crystal blue waters and white sands. Ochheuteal and Serendipity beaches are popular for their amenities and beautiful settings.

Phnom Kulen National Park

Phnom Kulen National Park, near Siem Reap, is home to the sacred Kulen Mountain, where the Khmer Empire was founded. Visitors can witness pilgrimages, explore waterfalls, hike trails, and view ancient carvings along the River of a Thousand Lingas.