If you’re looking to get away from it all, then hiking and trekking are just the ticket. It doesn’t get much better than spending a few days in the great outdoors, and Asian destinations in particular have become increasingly popular as a getaway for travellers foot. But where are Asia’s hiking hotspots? Keep reading and find out.

Malaysia

Malaysia is fast becoming one of the region’s most popular destinations for hikers. In fact, a recent report showed that Malaysia was one of the top destinations for trekking tourists. The country is home to many of Southeast Asia’s most stunning trails, and the sheer diversity of Malaysia’s parks and reserves means that there is a trail to suit everyone. With over 200 national parks and around 30 national reserves, there is sure to be a trail that suits your fitness level and hiking interests. The country is home to trails through tropical forests, temperate rainforests, and even the snow-capped islands of the Andaman Sea. If you’re looking to combine hiking with a visit to Malaysia’s fascinating culture and history, there are plenty of opportunities to do this as well.

Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular hiking destinations for Asian travellers, and for good reason. With trails that take you through tropical forests, across rice paddies and rice fields, and along the coast, you’re sure to have a trail to suit your interests. There are also plenty of cultural highlights to be had as well, with many routes in Thailand’s forests and along its coastlines taking you past cultural sites. If you’re looking for a truly off-the-beaten-track experience, you can’t do better than Thailand’s trails. There are some truly remote areas, and even the more popular trails are seldom crowded. This means that you’ll have plenty of space to stretch your legs, and you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery at your leisure.

Philippines

If you’re looking to combine hiking with a visit to a Southeast Asian city, then the Philippines is a great place to start. Although the country is very much a popular tourist destination, its trails are less crowded than many others in the region. That said, the country has some of the most stunning trails in all of Asia, and this is a country with a fascinating history. Native trails in the Philippines lead through stunning landscapes, from the scenic islands of the Visayas to the mountain ranges of Luzon. You can combine hiking with visits to fascinating historical sites as well, from pre-colonial settlements to World War II installations.

Indonesia

If you’re looking to visit a truly exciting area for hiking in Southeast Asia, then Indonesia is for you. This enormous country has many types of trails to suit a variety of needs and interests. You can choose to hike through stunning tropical forests and along the shores of stunning beaches, or you can head inland to discover the fascinating cultures of remote areas. You can combine hiking with a visit to one of the country’s many religious sites as well, from Hindu temples to mosques and Buddhist monasteries. Indonesia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, and its trails offer the chance to explore this diversity on foot.