Autumn in Asia is painted in different shades. There is a landscape tinted with burnt-orange ginkgo leaves, while another place shows a golden temple glimmering under the bright sunlight. Some countries invite you to see fall foliage while others welcome you to take a dip in the warm ocean. Nonetheless, it is a great move to travel to Asia during autumn (September – November). These are the places to go for autumn in Asia for you to put into your bucket list!
Kyoto, Japan
Starting off strong with Japan’s cultural capital of Kyoto. Shrouded in forests and well-manicured gardens, Kyoto looks more beautiful during autumn. Yellow and reddish leaves adorn the collection of temples and historical places. The red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Temple blend into the similar hues of the fall palette. Then, the gold-covered Kinkaku-ji Temple and its bonsai garden turn twice as lovely with the changing colors.
Furthermore, travelers love to wander around Nishiki Market and sample some chestnut and matsutake mushrooms. With its breathtaking fall foliage and tradition, Kyoto is one of the best places to spend autumn in Asia.
Things to Do in Kyoto during Autumn: See the temples, including Fushimi Inari dan Kinkaku-ji, visit Arashimaya Bamboo Forest, hunt for street food in Nishiki Market, try a tea ceremony, and see Nijo Castle
Seoul, South Korea
Traveling to Seoul during autumn makes you feel like you are in a romantic K-Drama. The reddish autumn hues enhance the dramatic yet lovely atmosphere Seoul has. You can enjoy fall foliage by the banks of Han River, which is fringed with ginkgo trees.
Moreover, the best autumn destination in Seoul is Changdeokgung Palace. The 14th-century palace comes in elegant traditional Korean architecture with pale-colored fortresses. See how the reddish autumn hues create a contrast to the palace’s earthy tone. A perfect scene for your camera!
Things to Do in Seoul during Autumn: Enjoy a bird-eye view of Seoul from Namsan Tower, stroll along the Han River, wear hanbok and stroll around Changdeokgung Palace, take a day trip to Nami Island, and savor Korean seasonal food
Jiuzhaigou, China
Feeling the irresistible urge to go outdoors during autumn? No worries, it is a universal experience! Then, satisfy your need for an outdoor adventure in Jiuzhaigou National Park. This national park in Northern China is renowned for its outstanding fall foliage scene. Tucked in Min Shan Mountain range, Jiuzhaigou features winding hills, pine-veiled slopes, and a crystal-clear lake. As autumn approaches, every leaf in the park turns reddish. Some fall into the brilliant blue waters of Panda Lake, creating a colorful contrast. Therefore, Jiuzhaigou is one of the best destinations for fall foliage in Asia.
Things to Do in Jiuzhaigou during Autumn: Hike along the Arrow Lake, see Panda Lake, hike to the waterfalls, and see Tibetan villages
Yangmingshan National Park, Taiwan
National parks in East Asia burst into autumn colors, including Yangmingshan National Park in Taiwan. The meadowed slopes, thin maple groves, and gardens of the park change their verdant colors to red-orange ones. Moreover, autumn marks the beginning of the silver grass season. The dandelion-like flowers create a captivating landscape that people would not want to miss. Get your camera ready and snap pictures of this seasonal phenomenon. It is one of the most unique places to go during autumn in Asia.
Kashmir, India
Nestled within the range of the Great Himalayas, Kashmir is a surreal place in India. Kashmir features an extensive area of meadows, lush valleys, sparkling lakes, and breathtaking hiking trails. As autumn – locally known as ‘harud’ – approaches, the region bursts into a feast of orange and red hues.
Travelers crowd to the Mughal gardens which have changed colors. Moreover, many want to try camping among the orange-ish meadows and sleep under the stars. As the weather gets chilly, you can have a bowl of Kashmir curry drenched in hearty spices. Therefore, it is one of the places to go for autumn in Asia.
Kyrgyzstan
This Central Asian country has started to gain attention due to its ethereal natural beauty and distinctive culture. Of course, Kyrgyzstan’s towering mountain ranges and dreamy slopes are too gorgeous to miss. The social media-famous Ala Archa National Park burst into bright shades of orange and red. With the snow-capped Tian Shan as the backdrop, seeing the park will take your breath away.
Then, say yes to a horse-riding experience as you voyage through the reddish meadows of Kyzart. Therefore, this hidden gem country is one of the best destinations for autumn in Asia.
Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan during Autumn: Hiking at Ala Archa National Park, stay in a yurt, learn about the nomadic tribe cultures (e.g. eagle hunting and traditional games), visit Issyk Kul Lake, and roam around the local bazaar in Bishkek city.
Bhutan
Cast away your worries as you step into the most peaceful country in the world. Featuring a majestic view of the Gangkhar Puensum Mountains and chants of Buddhist monks, Bhutan heals everyone who visits. Thus, Bhutan in autumn is about sunny weather and cultural festivals.
Head to Bumthang, a sacred historically rich region in the country. Every year, in mid-November, the region lights up with the Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival. Jubilant traditional dances, striking tribal costumes, and joyous music are what you can find during the festival. It takes place in a 7th-century temple with the same name to celebrate Guru Rinpoche, a saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. As night falls, the festival is closed with a ‘fire ritual’ which features naked dance and fire offerings. Other than that, you can witness the Thimphu Tshechu Festival which features masked dance. Therefore, Bhutan is one of the most amazing places to visit for autumn in Asia.
Things to Do in Bhutan during Autumn: Trekking along Jomolhari Mountain, see Thimphu Tschechu Festival, see terraced valleys and ancient dzongkhag in Bumthang, sample culinary delights in Thimpu, and wildlife-watching in Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary
Sri Lanka
Are you dreaming of fleeing from autumn’s chilly weather? Then, head to Sri Lanka. The country presents sunny skies with a bit of cloudy days and temperatures hovering around 24-30ºC. Autumn, ranging from late September to November, is the perfect time to savor outdoor adventures. You can either relax on the beaches of Tangalle or greet elephants in Kaudulla National Park. Furthermore, visit Sri Lanka in October to witness the brilliant Divali celebration. Enjoy the country as it lights up with thousands of lanterns and immerse yourself in the jubilant crowd.
Things to Do in Sri Lanka during Autumn: Bask in the sunlight at beaches in Tangalle, see elephants in Kaudulla National Park,
Bagan, Myanmar
Traveling to Bagan feels like you are entering a time machine. You are taken to witness the legacy of the 12th-century Pagan Kingdom. Gold-tinted temples, majestic religious sites built with stones, and astonishing stupas scattered around the area. There are around 3,000 Buddhist monuments in Bagan, making it a sacred city. Whether you are a history buff or a relaxed traveler, the mystifying charms of Bagan will leave you stunned.
Although Bagan is an all-year-round destination, visiting in autumn is a great idea. September to November is the transition period from rainy to dry season. The temperature hovers around 25-30ºC with medium humidity. Besides that, you can see festivals like the Kyaukse Elephant Dance Festival.
Things to Do in Bagan during Autumn: Ride a hot air balloon, see temples like Bagan Temple, Ananda Temple, and Dhammayayangyi Temple, visit the golden Shwesandaw Pagoda, and cycle around the temple complex
Hanoi, Vietnam
The city where centuries-old culture meets modern wonders – Hanoi is an unmissable capital to visit. After two years of travel writing, Hanoi remains one of my personal favorites in Southeast Asia. The antique Old Quarter where cafes line, vibrant-colored pagodas, and delightful cuisine are the building blocks of Hanoi. It is one of the best places to experience autumn in Asia as you can see slight fall foliage.
Leaves turn color into yellow and orange hues, creating a dreamy scene along the Hoan Kiem Lake. Besides that, September welcomes a cool weather, ranging between 18ºC and 25ºC. It is a nice time to stroll along the historical quarters and sit in a terrace cafe. Furthermore, Autumn also marks the beginning of various festivals, including the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Things to Do in Hanoi during Autumn: See the different Mid-Autumn Festivals, sample seasonal dishes (dracontomelon and snails), stroll around the Old Quarter, try egg coffee, learn history in Hoa Lo Prison, and go cafe-hopping
Chiang Mai, Thailand
This cultural treasure trove of Thailand must be in your autumn in Asia itinerary. Chiang Mai welcomes a cool and pleasant weather starting from early October. Sunny sky with gentle breeze make it comfortable to walk around the astonishing historical sites. Traveling to Chiang Mai means seeing temples and hunting local food. However, autumn brings a different color. It is the time for Loy Krathong, the Buddhist festival of light, and Yi Peng Festival. Don’t miss the surreal scene which feature thousands of lanterns in November 15-16, 2024.
Things to Do in Chiang Mai during Autumn: Sign up for the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival, see the famous Wat Doi Suthep and Wat Pha La temple, attend a Thai cooking class, go to the Night Bazaar, and hunt for traditional handicrafts
Luang Prabang, Laos
As the ancient royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang is the hotspot for culture and history. The city is dotted with Buddhist temples and museums. You can learn a piece of Southeast Asia’s fascinating history by exploring each of them. Also, make sure to enjoy the tranquil and laidback local atmosphere in Luang Prabang. Besides that, Luang Prabang also invites you to an exciting outdoor adventure. After a 1-2 hours drive, you can find sparkling waterfalls and astonishing caves awaiting to be explored. It is one of the best places for a trip in autumn in Asia.
Things to Do in Luang Prabang during Autumn: Visit the intricate Wat Xiengthong Temple, stroll around Old Quarter, see Royal Palace Museum, splash into Kuang Si Waterfall, enjoy tranquil rice terraces in Living Land Farm, and visit MandaLao Elephant Park.
Pokhara
Experience autumn like never before in this unique town in Nepal. Phokara is know as a gateway to Annapurna Circuit, one of the tallest mountains in the world. However, only a few have known that Pokhara has its own charms. Nestled in an Alpine ecosystem, Pokhara boasts a picturesque view of snow-capped mountain range, the emerald Phewa Lake, and meadowed hills. Besides that, you can find intricate ancient pagodas and unique museums in the city. It is one of the best places to spend autumn in Asia.
Things to Do in Pokhara during Autumn: Boat ride along Phewa Like, cross to the Peace Pagoda, visit Tal Barahi Temple, see Annapurna from Poon Hill, learn about indigenous culture and mountaineering history in International Mountain Museum, and visit Bindhya Basini Temple
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Are you looking for a splash of glam for autumn in Asia? Then, look no further than Dubai! From the sky-scraping Burj Khalifa to the futuristic Palm Jumeirah, every corner of Dubai represents superlatives.
As summer passes, the high heat in Dubai shifts into mild temperatures. It is a comfortable time to bask in the sunshine at Dubai’s exquisite beaches while sipping a sangria. Besides that, the balmy, non-scorching temperatures make it wonderful to voyage into deserts on a jeep. You can also get everything at more affordable prices as it is the low season in the United Arab Emirates.
Things to Do in Dubai during Autumn: Relax at the beaches, try skydiving, shop and enjoy leisure time in Dubai Mall, see the Global Village, go for a desert safari, and hop on a cruise
Penang, Malaysia
See the harmony of Chinese Peranakan culture, British colonial marks, and Melayu heritage in the Penang. This island celebrates cultural diversity through buildings, flavors, and celebrations. Then, it has become one of the best places to visit for autumn in Asia due to festivals.
Autumn marks the beginning of the moon season in the Chinese calendar. You can look forward for the Hungry Ghost and Nine Emperor Gods Festival, which happens from early September to October. The Chinese traditional festivals feature opera performances, fascinating religious ceremonies, impressive statues, and vibrant songs.
Things to Do in Penang during Autumn: Explore the historical sites and food scene in Georgetown, join the Chinese festivals’ crowds, visit Penang Hill, see The Habitat rainforest display, and see museums.
Whether you want to enjoy a beautiful fall foliage or bask in the sunshine, these autumn in Asia destinations are for you to visit.
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