Have any Southeast Asian countries been working their way to the top of your travel wish list? If the answer is ‘yes’, and you’ve got a soft spot for the outdoors, then check out our pick of lush walks across Southeast Asia to get your fill of awe-inspiring caves, waterfalls, temples and more.

1. Paradise Cave, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam

Walk times: 1 hour - 4 hours (half a day for longer walk)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Highlight: Step back in time to a million years ago

Book in early, as Paradise Cave is one of the most popular walks in Vietnam. Only discovered in 2005, this beautiful limestone cave has a beautiful history behind it, with marvellous rock formations that have been in the making over millions of years. The whole cave is said to be 31km long, with the visiting section being just 1km. If you’re keen to explore more deeply, book a guided 7km walk into the ‘Dark Cave’ which takes around 4 hours to complete.

2. Golden Mount Temple (Wat Saket), Bangkok, Thailand

Walk times: 20 minutes – 30 minutes

Difficulty level: Beginner

Highlight: A 360-degree view of Bangkok and music to your ears

A shorter yet more intense walk, involving a 20–30-minute ascent up a spiralling 344-step staircase around the newly painted temple. From there you’ll be welcomed by the sounds of small bells ringing in the warm Thai breeze. Once you arrive at the top, take your time to drink in views of the city that are second-to-none, as you’re joined by fellow tourists and locals who’ve come to pray. If travelling in November, you’ll be in for an extra treat, as the Loy Krathong festival (festival of lights) will be in full swing. As this is a religious monument, it’s important to consider your choice of clothing, making sure to cover your shoulders and knees.

3. Kawah Ijen Lake, Banyuwangi, Indonesia

Walk times: 3 hours – 5 hours (return)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Highlight: Feel like you’re on the movie set of the latest Spielberg film

For an experience that seems straight out of a sci-fi flick, you’ll want to pay a visit to Kawah Ijen Lake in Banyuwangi, Indonesia. Double check that you have enough camera storage because there’ll be plenty of opportunities to capture a shot of the stunning, turquoise-coloured sulphur lake. For another astonishing escapade, book the midnight hike where you’ll get to experience the famous Kawah Ijen blue fire caused by sulphur gases burning at extreme temperatures of around 600˚C. This is one of only two places on Earth where this rare phenomenon takes place, and is not to be missed!

4. Lingko Spider Web Rice Fields, Ruteng, Indonesia

Walk times: 1.5 hours – 3 hours (return)

Difficulty level: Beginner

Highlight: Check out the coolest and biggest ‘spider web’ you’ll ever see

Get out of the hustle and bustle of Indonesian city life to explore the Lingko Spider Web Rice Fields. This unusual yet spectacular looking field is around 398 hectares long and is spread across 11 different villages. By using the commonly used route that starts in Labuan Bajo and ends at the top of Weol Peak, you’ll get a top-down view of the vibrant green colours of the field.

5. Batu Pandang Ratapan Angin Hill, Wonosobo, Central Java, Indonesia

Walk times: 1 – 2 hours

Difficulty level: Beginner - Moderate

Highlight: Climb volcanic rock and be part of a landscape you only ever see through a screen

An idyllic track in Central Java where that you can take at your own pace without the usual distraction of other tourists or locals. After climbing piles of irregular-shaped rocks, built up over hundreds of years of volcanic activity; soak in the terrific landscape and the calming Telaga Warna lake. Something you truly need to see for yourself to appreciate.

6. Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall, Bali, Indonesia

Walk times: 20 minutes – 30 minutes (return)

Difficulty level: Beginner

Highlight: Take a dive into one of Bali’s most beautiful natural attractions

Bali is top of the list for many who want to experience the depth of beauty Southeast Asia has to offer. One place you simply can’t miss is the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall. Take a 15-minute walk from the entrance of the site through an enchanted path. There are four waterfalls to see, all offering unique and serene features. It’s best to book a tour if you want to visit all four to get an optimal experience.

7. Kelimutu National Park Lakes, Flores, Indonesia

Walk times: 60 minutes – 90 minutes (return)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Highlight: Immerse yourself in a magical Indonesian sunrise

The hike at Kelimutu National Park is almost guaranteed to leave you speechless. Look away now if you’re not a morning person though, because the best time to start the walk is at the crack of dawn. Once you’re at the top, wait for the famous turquoise lakes to be introduced to you by the rising morning sun. The colours of these lakes are so vivid and eye-catching, you’d be hard-pressed to find it elsewhere. The same walk can be done in the afternoon, just be aware of the sweltering temperatures at this time of the day.

8. Pha Daeng Peak, Nong Khiaw, Laos

Walk times: 1.5 – 2.5 hours (return)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Highlight: The crème de la crème of viewpoints

Pha Daeng Peak is widely acknowledged as the number one viewpoint in Laos. After completing the zig-zagging path to the pinnacle of the mount, a photo with the Lao flag is a must to recognize your achievement. At the top you’ll get a panoramic view, featuring the Nam Ou River. The trek is well guided and is regularly being improved by locals with signage and ropes.

9. Kalai Jungle, Ratanakiri Province, Cambodia

Walk times: Three days (includes camping)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Highlight: Walk in the footsteps of indigenous Cambodians

The indigenous Kreung people call the Kalai Jungle home, and you can make it yours for a short while too. This reserve is a good place to immerse yourself in Cambodia’s green scenery, as well as the dry forest. It’ll also appeal to those looking for a multi-day camping experience. Set aside a few days and book in for a tour which includes an extensive itinerary for the best value out of the trek.

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