18 Best Affordable Asian Countries for the Western Travellers

 Last Updated: 12 Feb, 2020 By Swati Mishra

Are you a western traveller in quest of the best budget destinations in Asia for your next vacay?

If yes, you have come to the right place…

Asia has plenty of diversity and why not, after all its is the world’s largest continent with over 48 countries. While some of the Asian countries including Japan and Singapore are renowned for being pretty expensive places to travel, on the other hand, there are countries offering the best places for vacation on a budget. Whether you are looking for beaches or mountains; islands or deserts, your holidays in the beautiful countries of Asia will be a memorable one. Let’s get started:

1. China

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If you dodge the expensive cities in China (eastern Asia) like Shenzhen and Shanghai and plan a trip to some of the destinations where you don’t have to spend in bulk, exploring China can be really affordable. Right from meals to clothing, from train to plane tickets, prices in China are much cheaper than in most of the western countries. A reasonable daily budget to explore China is 300 CNY which is approximately USD44.

Must-Visit Destinations in China:

• Xi’an
• Harbin
• Chengdu
• Huangshan
• Suzhou
• Kunming
• Guilin

2. The UAE

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If we talk about the cost of living in the UAE, it is high but looking at the tourism sector it is affordable. Considered as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Asia, this western Asian country offers a myriad of experiences to the tourists that are free or less than Dh20. Right from Abra Ride across the Creek in Bur Dubai to Wildlife Safari in Dubai and Desert Safari in Sharjah, from Al Ain Classic Car Museum in Abu Dhabi to enjoying outdoor adventures in Hatta, your holidays in the UAE will be the best ones.

Must-Visit Destinations in the UAE:

• Dubai
• Sharjah
• Abu Dhabi

3. Jordan

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Talking about the yet another country of western Asia, Jordan is quite affordable for travelling only when done in the right way. However, travelling to Petra can be expensive but you can’t miss out on it as it is the must-see attraction of Jordan. The Petra ticket price is approx $70 per person. In addition to this, if you want to save money on accommodation, you can choose to stay in the hostels which would cost you between $17 and $20. So, plan a trip to Jordan to witness the amazing historical landmarks in Jordan.

Must-Visit Destinations in Jordan:

• Aqaba
• Amman

4. India

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When it is about the best budget destinations in Asia, India can’t be overlooked. The average daily budget for travelling in India would cost you between $25 and $50 per day including food, transportation and accommodation. However, if you prefer boutique hotels, meals and transportation, the cost would range from $50 and $150. The country is not only for those who wish to learn about the history and the architectural wonders but the Asian destination is also for those with a love for mountain walking. Also, a visit to Kerala will give an opportunity for a rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatment and spa.

Must-Visit Destinations in India:

• All throughout the country

5. Nepal

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The South Asian country, Nepal is one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world. However, the prices of the flight to Nepal would depend on your point of the region. For instance, from the West Coast of the United States, flight tickets tend to range between $600 and $1300. Besides, the cost of accommodation and transportation in Nepal ranges from $10 to $20 per day. The country is not only for those keen about art and culture but also offers great adventure opportunities where one can enjoy trekking, white water rafting, paragliding and bungee jumping.

Must-Visit Destinations in Nepal:

• Kathmandu
• Pokhara
• Lumbini
• Chitwan National Park
• Ilam
• Jhapa

6. Maldives

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A fascinating country, Maldives is one of the preferred and affordable Asian destinations for couples. Boasting the best beaches in the world, the country offers a myriad of water sports including snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing and night fishing. Snorkelling will cost you somewhere around $8, however, scuba diving and surfing can be expensive. Besides, the accommodation in Maldives offers you limitless choice which can cost you from $50 to $120 per night when compared to an overwater bungalow that would cost you $1000. Talking about transportation, Maldives has an extensive and affordable ferry system which will cost you around $10 to travel from one island to the other.

Must-Visit Places in Maldives:

• Thoddoo
• Maafushi
• Fulidhoo
• Guraidhoo
• Thulusdhoo
• Dhigurah
• Dhiffushi
• Dharavandhoo
• Ukulhas
• Rasdhoo
• Hulhumale

7. Sri Lanka

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Yet another gorgeous and best holiday destination in Southern Asia, Sri Lanka is renowned for its rich Buddhist culture and historic significance. The country is very affordable with $30 being the average daily budget. Accommodation prices may vary from $7 to $27 if you choose to stay at homestays and hotels. Talking about transportation in Sri Lanka, it costs next to nothing. Don’t miss out on enjoying the most beautiful train rides in the world that run from Badulla to Haputale which cost $0.50 per person. Not only this but do try fun water activities including diving, snorkelling, and surfing which charges $6.

Must-Visit Places in Sri Lanka:

• Bentota
• Nuwara Eliya
• Anuradhapura
• Mirissa
• Polonnaruwa
• Kandy
• Galle
• Colombo
• Yala National Park

8. Indonesia

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One of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is the best place to vacation on a budget. The country can be best explored with an average daily budget of $25 to $35 per day including accommodation, transportation, meals and exploring the tourist attractions. Be it for leisure, culture, history, wildlife, adventure, nature or shopping, your trip to Indonesia will be a memorable one. Also, a visit to Bali will let you find peace and relaxation on your holidays, so don’t miss out on Bali on your travel itinerary.

Must-Visit Destinations in Indonesia:

• Jakarta
• Yogyakarta
• Mount Bromo
• Sumatra- Lake Toba
• Bali
• Lombok
• Tana Toraja
• Baliem Valley
• Raja Ampat Islands
• Nusa Lembongan
• Komodo National Park

9. Thailand

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One of the most visited countries in the world, Thailand boasts incredible beaches, temples and scrumptious food. Coming to the average daily budget of travelling in Thailand is $33.09 including accommodation, meals and transportation. When looking for cheap destinations to visit in Thailand, you should consider Chiang Mai, Pai, Chiang Rai, and other northern cities of the country. Bangkok in the central region and Pattaya in the eastern region of Thailand are the must-visit on a Thailand trip. Also, you need to visit Koh Chang, considered as the last cheap Thai Island. Besides, the Southern part of Thailand is a bit expensive but can be enjoyed with budget accommodation and food, afterall you can’t miss out on beauties like Phuket and Krabi when holidaying in Thailand.

Must-Visit Destinations in Thailand:

• Chiang Mai
• Pai
• Chiang Rai
• Bangkok
• Pattaya
• Koh Chang
• Koh Samui
• Khao Sok National Park

10. Vietnam

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With ancient history, diverse culture and quintessential landscape, Vietnam should be added to the list when planning to visit the Asian countries. Being yet another budget holiday destination, Vietnam can be best explored with an average daily budget of $30 to $36 including food, accommodation, transportation and exploring the places. No matter where you choose to travel in Vietnam, every place is cheap and will offer you great food and reasonable beer. Don’t miss out on visiting Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Saigon. Hanoi is a bit expensive when compared to the rest of the places in the country, but can be enjoyed on a budget when done right.

Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam:

• Ho Chi Minh City
• Ha Long Bay
• Hue
• Hanoi
• Da Nang
• Sa Pa
• Hoi An
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
• My Son
• Nha Trang
• Ba Be National Park

11. Philippines

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An island country, the Philippines is a beautiful destination known for rich biodiversity which should be visited at least once in a lifetime. And why not it is affordable in every sense with average daily cost of travelling being $25 to $30. Jagna in Bohol is the cheapest to explore while exploring Boracay and Cagayan de Oro can be a bit expensive when compared to other places in the Philippines.

Must-Visit Places in the Philippines:

• Tagaytay
• San Antonio, Zambales
• Bolinao, Pangasinan
• Jagna, Bohol
• Potipot Island, Zambales
• Intramuros
• Puerto Galera
• Baguio
• Burot Beach, Calatagan
• Bataan

12. Cambodia

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Yet another top tourist destination in Southeastern Asia, Cambodia can be explored on a daily average budget of $25 to $30 including meals, accommodation and transportation. Best known for Hindu temple Angkor Wat temple, Cambodia will let you explore many other interesting locations which will let you learn about the ancient history, explore the beaches, witness the fine architecture of the attractions and a lot more. Of all the places, Banlung is the cheapest where you can witness the waterfalls and indulge in jungle hiking tours. Also, don’t leave the country without buying some of the wonderful things like Camdian art, Kampot pepper, palm sugar, silverware like boxes, plates, bowls, rings and jewellery, wood carvings, hand-woven textiles, Cambodian Silk Scarf and more.

Must-Visit Destinations in Cambodia:

• Siem Reap- Angkor Wat temple
• Phnom Penh
• Sihanoukville- Koh Rong Samloem
• Ratanakiri
• Prasat Preah Vihear
• Battambang
• Kampot
• Tonle Sap Lake

13. Malaysia

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Considered to be one of the best places to visit in the Asia Pacific, Malaysia is known for beautiful beaches, glorious national parks, architectural gems, amazing shopping and more. On being here, the average daily budget would range between range between $13 to $30 which includes food, travelling and accommodation. Of all the places in the country, Peninsular Malaysia is cheaper which includes Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Malacca, Langkawi and more. Also, don’t miss out on shopping if you are in Malaysia. The country offers a myriad of varieties from lively street markets to modern malls and specialty shops.

Must-Visit Destinations in Malaysia:

• Kuala Lumpur
• Penang
• Malacca
• Cameron Highlands
• Langkawi
• Perhentian Islands
• Borneo
• Taman Negara
• Tioman Island
• Selangor

14. Myanmar

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Influenced by Theravada Buddhism, Myanmar lets one explore the beautiful pagodas and temples. Talking about how budget-friendly Myanmar is, the average daily cost of travelling in the country ranges from $30 to $35. On being here, don’t miss out on visiting the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, which is one of the important attractions of the country. The country even boasts of great Asian cuisine and you should definitely try the Mohinga, recognized as the national dish of Myanmar. Besides, Thai fragrant rice, pickled tea are other specialities you would love.

Must-Visit Destinations in Myanmar:

• Mon State
• Yangon
• Mandalay
• Old Bagan
• Inle Lake
• Kalaw
• Bago
• Mawlamyine
• Ngapali Beach

15. Laos

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With natural beauties of caves, never ending waterways and dense forests, Laos is like a dream destination especially for those who want to connect with Mother Nature. The destination is truly affordable and all you need is to carry an average daily budget of $23 to $28. The place is ideal for tourists of all kinds. In the sense, nature lovers on their walk will get an opportunity to spot exotic animals; adventure seekers can enjoy underground river caves, jungle zip lines and karsts climbing. The culture aficionados can explore the ancient temples and learn about the Lao spiritual life.

Must-Visit Destinations in Laos:

• Vientiane
• Vang Vieng
• Luang Prabang
• Huay Xai
• Bokeo Nature Reserve
• Nong Kiau
• Plain of Jars
• Si Phan Don

16. Uzbekistan

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A good country to visit in Central Asia, Uzbekistan will let one explore the rich culture, history and architecture. Not only this, but the country is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing and mountaineering. Coming to the travel expenses in Uzbekistan, the average daily budget is between $30 to $35 including accommodation, meals and transportation. Don’t miss out on exploring the gorgeous Registan square and the Bibi Khanum in Samarkand.

Must-Visit Destinations in Uzbekistan:

• Samarkand
• Bukhara
• Khiva
• Tashkent
• Shahrisabz
• Aydar Lake
• Fergana Valley

17. Kyrgyzstan

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Land of untouched mountains, crystal clear lakes, lush valleys and centuries-old nomadic culture, Kyrgyzstan is an incredible place to visit for nature sightseeing, photography tours, hiking, horse riding and more. The average daily budget for travelling in Kyrgyzstan is $15. This means if you choose to stay at a hostel it would cost you around $7. Coming to transportation, you can make the most of your vacation by hitchhiking as it is quite common in Kyrgyzstan. In addition to this, travelling in and around Kyrgyzstan is even possible by Marshrutka which will cost you around $0.14.

Must-Visit Destinations in Kyrgyzstan:

• Bishkek
• Osh
• Karakol
• Ala Archa National Park
• Song Kol Lake in Naryn region of the country
• Ala Kul
• Altyn Arashan
• Jyrgalan Valley
• Barskoon
• Balykchy

18. Turkmenistan

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Turkmenistan is an expensive country in Central Asia when compared to other places, you can still plan a trip on budget in the right way. Even though there are overpriced hotels in the country ranging from $60 to $100, you can choose to book your stay at a very basic hotel that will cost you $10. Moving to transportation in the country, it is affordable in some places. For instance, prices of Marshrutka (minimus) will be $5 for travelling from Ashgabat to Mary; $2 from Ashgabat to Tejen; while $10 for travelling from Ashgabat to Turkmenbashi. However, if you opt for large overnight buses, it will be slower and cheaper. Coming to visit the tourist attractions in Turkmenistan, expect to pay between $2 and $5 for archaeological sites and around $10 for point of interests like the underground lake of Kow-Ata or the carpet museum in Ashgabat. A trip to Turkmenistan will let you explore the unusual history, landscape and culture. Make sure you don’t miss out visiting the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as ‘the gateway to hell.

Must-Visit Destinations in Turkmenistan:

• Ashgabat
• Mary
• Karakum Desert- Darvaza Gas Crater
• Merv
• Turkmenbashi
• Dashoguz

So, these were the picks for the best budget countries in Asia. By now you must have decided where you are going for your next trip. Let us know in the comment section below also if you have ever been to any of these countries, share your experience with us.

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Published: 15 Nov, 2019By Swati Mishra