#Singapore #Agoda #Cameron Highlands #Lake Kawaguchi

Discover Asia's Picturesque Rural Retreats

In a world increasingly drawn to nature and local culture, Agoda Company Pte. Ltd. has announced its latest rankings showcasing the most popular rural tourism destinations across Asia. On the rise of a new trend for travelers seeking solace from urban life, Malaysia's lush hill resort, Cameron Highlands, has secured the top spot. Following closely are Thailand's Khao Yai and Indonesia's Puncak, while Japan's stunning Lake Kawaguchi comes in at fourth place.

Rural areas nestled in mountains and highlands are gaining popularity as ideal locations to bask in natural beauty and embrace local culture. These serene escapes provide a much-needed break from city hustle, attracting many who wish to rejuvenate both body and mind.

The Top 8 Rural Travel Destinations in Asia:

1. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Known for its cool climate and tea plantations, this highland resort is a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can immerse themselves in lush landscapes adorned with flower gardens and enjoy fresh produce from local farms while spending peaceful moments hiking or strolling through traditional villages.

2. Khao Yai, Thailand
As Thailand's oldest national park, Khao Yai is rich in natural beauty. It offers thrilling experiences such as wildlife watching, waterfall visits, and breathtaking views from its vantage points, fulfilling every adventure-seeker's desire.

3. Puncak, Indonesia
Located in West Java, Puncak boasts scenic mountains and tea plantations. This popular weekend getaway offers an array of activities including hiking, paragliding, and exploring local markets, drawing visitors from urban areas.

4. Lake Kawaguchi, Japan
With a perfect view of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi is an idyllic location. Travelers can enjoy hot springs, Japanese gardens, and seasonal festivals, along with being a base for climbing Fuji and exploring nearby attractions.

5. Kenting, Taiwan
A coastal resort known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. Visitors can indulge in marine sports and trek through national parks, experiencing the perfect blend of nature and activities.

6. Sapa, Vietnam
Nestled in the mountains, Sapa is famous for its terraced rice fields and indigenous villages. It offers exciting trekking opportunities in nature, as well as chances to interact with the local culture.

7. Munnar, India
Located in the tea-producing state of Kerala, Munnar is a highland resort where visitors can explore tea plantations, museums, and wildlife sanctuaries, all while enjoying mist-covered mountain landscapes.

8. Pyeongchang, South Korea
Famously known as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang provides winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding, alongside beautiful natural surroundings and cultural experiences throughout the year.

Expert Insights

Satomi Nakabayashi, Country Director at Agoda International Japan, emphasized the significance of rural tourism experiences that allow travelers to reconnect with nature and culture. She expressed her excitement about the growing recognition of rural areas across Asia, stating, "It is a joy to see the charm of local areas being rediscovered across Asian countries. At Agoda, we strive to connect travelers with these regions and expand opportunities for travel."

With more than 6 million accommodations, over 130,000 airline routes, and 300,000 local activities available globally, Agoda is committed to making travel planning convenient and accessible. The Agoda mobile app offers valuable deals to help plan your next rural getaway efficiently.

Data Collection Methodology

This ranking is based on Agoda's search data collected from February 15 to August 15, 2025, focusing on cities with populations under 50,000 across 8 Asian markets.

About Agoda

Agoda is a digital travel platform that enables travelers to explore over 6 million hotels and vacation rentals globally, alongside flights and activities, all at competitive prices. The Agoda website and mobile app are available in 39 languages, supported by 24/7 customer service. A subsidiary of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG), Agoda operates from its headquarters in Singapore, with over 7,000 staff across 27 offices worldwide, leveraging top-tier technology to continuously improve travel booking services. For more information, visit Agoda.com.