Patricia CaleonAsia, a continent renowned for its diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, often attracts thousands and millions of tourists each year. While many destinations live up to their hype, others may still disappoint. Take a look at the recently revealed 10 most underrated Asian destinations that have been dubbed as overrated by many travellers.
Also read: 9 Nostalgic Destinations in Asia Pacific Suitable for Every Type of Traveller
Most overrated Asian destinations in 2024
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1. Phuket, Thailand
Once an idyllic tropical paradise, Phuket has now become increasingly overcrowded, overrated, and commercialised. What once were clean, hidden gem beaches are now often packed, traffic is almost unbearable, and authentic experiences are hard to come by.
2. Bali, Indonesia
Bali, a popular destination among honeymooners, has also fallen victim to overtourism. The island’s serene atmosphere has now been replaced by heaps of bustling resorts and restaurants.
3. The Great Wall of China
While the Great Wall is a historical marvel and one that is forever relevant, at times, it can be extremely crowded, especially during peak season. Tourists may find it more difficult to enjoy the experience due to the influx of crowds.
4. Baga Beach, India
Baga Beach, known for its vibrant nightlife, can be overcrowded and noisy. The party vibe may not be ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful tropical escape away from the crowd and noise.
5. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay’s stunning natural beauty has been spoiled by water pollution caused by tourist boats. Today, the bay’s pristine waters are no longer as clear as they once were.
6. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most impressive temples, can be overwhelmed by crowds. Tourists may find it hard to appreciate the site’s grandeur, resulting in an inauthentic experience, due to the large number of visitors.
7. Mount Fuji, Japan
Mount Fuji has been the talk of the town lately, being a popular hiking destination, but the best views are often obscured by crowds. Tourists now find it difficult to capture the iconic mountain’s beauty without the presence of other tourists in the backdrop.
8. Ubud, Indonesia
Ubud, a charming town known for its serene and artistic atmosphere, has become increasingly popular with tourists. This has led to a spike in prices and traffic congestion on most tourist spots.
9. Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal, known as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is often overcrowded and surrounded by commercialised areas. Tourists may now find it difficult to appreciate the monument’s alluring beauty due to the influx of crowds and the lack of authentic experiences.
10. Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Bukit Bintang, a popular shopping and nightlife district in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has also been criticised for its overcrowding, noise pollution, and inflated prices.
Also read: 5 Budget-Friendly Destinations in Asia for Spontaneous Escapes
While this may affect of travel decisions and itineraries, it’s still important to note that these rankings are subjective and may not reflect everyone’s experiences and personal preference. These overrated Asian destinations may be deemed as such for some, but they can still offer unique experiences and beautiful sceneries for others. Make sure you do your research and choose destinations that perfectly align with your interests, preferences, and travel goals.
