Forget the guidebooks and avoid the crowds, from untouched islands and glacial valleys to palm-lined beaches and unforgettable trekking trails, it’s time for you to discover some of South and Southeast Asia’s little known treasures…
A Ritual of Reverence and Renewal
Pura Mengening Temple, Indonesia
Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago with over 1,700 islands, so it stands to reason that you should be able to discover something special there, even in the most unexpected places… even Bali. For example, the recently opened Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, set in a secluded, verdant hillside in the Payangan forest, is a luxury jungle hideaway that feels a million miles away from the well-trodden tourist path. Talk to the concierge, and they can arrange a visit to the Pura Mengening Temple. Dating back to the 11th century, this revered but rarely visited temple features two pools where guests can enjoy a cleansing ritual amid the waterfalls and tropical plants. It is Bali, but not as you know it.
The Lost City Where Time Stands Still
Banteay Chhmar, Cambodia
If you base yourself in Cambodia’s second city, Siem Reap, you can stay at the award-winning Anantara Angkor Resort and in just 15 minutes you can join a tour of the country’s Buddhist icon, Angkor Wat. Alternatively, you could indulge your inner Indiana Jones and make the journey two hours to the northeast, deep into the jungle, where you will find the ruins of Banteay Chhmar. Dating back to the 12th century and surrounded by a moat, it was once a magnificent walled city built by King Jayarwarman VII, but now the ancient remains of this temple complex are being consumed by nature. Known as the ‘citadel of the cat’, the huge gallery walls feature intricately hand-carved bas-reliefs of famous princes, notable battles and Angkorian life. Mysterious, magical and monumental, the only thing it doesn’t have is crowds of tourists.
A Seven-tiered Treasure
Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall, Thailand
Just two hours from the chaotic capital and the sublime Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel is the town of Kanchanaburi. Home to a host of adventurous opportunities, travellers can discover the ancient temples at Prasat Mueang Singh, hike one of the trails at Khao Chang Puak in Thong Pha Phum National Park, or visit the elephant sanctuary on the Khwae Yai River. However, for something a little different, but no less remarkable, make time to visit the Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall. A less well-known attraction in the Sri Nakarin Dam National Park, this is seven tiers of cascading natural beauty buried deep in the jungle. At the tail end of the rainy season, between September and October, it is at its very best, when water levels and the weather are perfect. Huay Mae Khamin may be one of Thailand’s most beguiling waterfalls.
Sri Lanka’s Silent Shoreline
Talalla Beach, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s south coast has always been quieter than the west, but things have changed in recent years. Thanks to headline-grabbing beach town hotspots like Mirissa, Koggala and Tangalle – home to Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, an opulent five-star hideaway that overlooks the Indian Ocean – visitors have been migrating across the island for the surf, the vibes and the tantalising turquoise waters. To avoid the crowds, head for Talalla Beach. Tucked into a large, sheltered cove and surrounded by lush vegetation, it is about 2 kilometres long and is as quiet and serene as it is beautiful. At its best between January and March, don’t be surprised if you get the place to yourself. If Robinson Crusoe had been a travel agent, he’d have recommended it.
A Jungle Jewel
Kuang Si Waterfall, Laos
Officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Laos is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia and one of the least well-known. Its rugged terrain, tropical rainforests and underground river caves make it a place of breathtaking natural beauty. However, would-be travellers are deterred because it is less tourist friendly than some Asian countries. To get around the limited transport infrastructure, avoid the roads and book yourself a journey along the Mekong River onboard Bohème through Mekong Kingdoms cruises. Starting from the country’s royal capital Luang Prabang, this recently launched 50-metre ‘grand dame’ takes guests to the very heart of the country. The six-day trip between Vientiane and Luang Prabang takes in glorious palaces, Buddhist temples, and even an elephant sanctuary in Xayaboury, but the secret star attraction is the Kuang Si Waterfall. A multitiered jungle oasis set in its own ecosystem, this limestone attraction can be tricky to trek to but is utterly unmissable. Instagram-worthy is an understatement.
The Disappearing Lagoon
Bukit Singa Lagoon, Malaysia
Stay with us on this one, because this is a secret spot, located within a hidden gem, accessed by a visit to a little-known island. We start in Malaysia and the coastal city of Kuala Terengganu. Visitors to this area may be familiar with the islands of Perhentian and Redang, but less so with Pulas Kapas. That is tip number one. When you arrive on Kapas, instead of snorkelling, kayaking or visiting the turtles, head to Bukit Singa (or Lion’s Hill). There you will find a hiking path that covers steep cliffs, sandy coves and incredible ocean views. Don’t worry – if you are inexperienced, there are trek guides who can show you the route. That is insider tip number two. And finally, if you time it right, at the top of the island at high tide, a stunning “hidden” lagoon is revealed. It isn’t advisable to swim there, but the sight itself will live long in the memory.
The Queen of Lakes Calls
Rara Lake, Nepal
Nepal is best known as the home to eight of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mount Everest. Tibetans call the mountain Sagarmatha, which translates to ‘Goddess of the Sky’. Less well-known but arguably just as beautiful is Rara Lake, known to locals as the ‘Queen of Lakes’. The largest and deepest freshwater lake in the country, this mesmerising ovalshaped expanse is three miles wide and sits like a shimmering azure jewel in the Nepalese wilderness. Set in the tranquil Rara National Park and surrounded by dense forests of pine, juniper and spruce trees, with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the distance, it attracts only the most discerning and determined travellers who come for the inspiring treks. The nearby villages are basic, and you will be sharing the path with Himalayan black bears, clouded leopards, and even red pandas. However, as an experience, nothing could be more rewarding.
Cranes and Dragons
Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan
Although the Kingdom of Bhutan recently celebrated its 50th anniversary since first inviting foreign visitors to cross its borders, it remains a relatively unknown destination. With its Buddhist monarchy and commitment to equality and compassion, the Land of the Thunder Dragon lives by the concept of Gross National Happiness, putting well-being above economic pursuits as a way of life. And all visitors must buy into that ethos when they come – they call it a Sustainable Development Fee and it is currently set at USD 100 a night for adults. The whole country should qualify as a hidden gem, but the Phobjikha Valley is very special. A large bowl-shaped glacial gorge, it is home to the historic Gangtey Monastery, tiny rural villages and acres of untouched natural beauty. Visit between late October and early February and the valley becomes home to the endangered black-necked cranes who migrate there annually. There is even a festival in the birds’ honour in November.
This article first appeared in issue four of Minor Hotels’ Journeys magazine.
