So, you’ve already checked off one of the top road trips on our list, and now you’re itching for your next adventure.
Why not explore Asia? You might think, “Is Asia the best place for a road trip?”
The answer is a big YES!
Asia is full of amazing landscapes, rich cultures, and roads that offer some of the most jaw-dropping views you’ll ever see.
But where should you start? No worries! We’ve done the hard work for you.
Here’s a rundown of the ten most popular road trips in Asia that every traveler—whether you’re just starting or a road trip pro—needs to experience.
Ready? Let’s hit the road!
1. Leh-Manali Highway, India
The Leh-Manali Highway is a tough but breathtaking road trip. It covers about 474 km and connects Manali in Himachal Pradesh to Leh in the Ladakh region.
The route takes you through some of the highest mountain passes in the world, like Rohtang Pass (3,978 m), Tanglang La (5,328 m), and Baralacha La (4,890 m).
Along the way, these passes give you amazing views of snow-covered mountains, valleys, and rivers.
Since it’s at a high altitude, getting used to the elevation before starting the journey is important to avoid altitude sickness.
Many people stop overnight at places like Keylong or Jispa to rest and acclimatize. For those planning this journey, the best time is between June and September, when the roads are open.
Even then, the weather can be unpredictable, causing roadblocks due to landslides or snow, so be cautious.
Apart from the thrill of driving through narrow, winding roads, there are many other experiences along the way.
You can visit Buddhist monasteries like Thiksey and Hemis in Leh or camp under the stars at Sarchu.
For adventure lovers, there’s also white-water rafting on the Indus River. With Ladakh’s stunning scenery and rich culture, this road trip is an adventure you won’t forget.
2. Karakoram Highway, Pakistan/China
The Karakoram Highway, often called the “Friendship Highway,” connects Pakistan with China and is one of the highest paved roads in the world.
Stretching about 1,300 km, it crosses the Karakoram mountain range, offering stunning views of glaciers, valleys, and towering peaks.
At its highest point, it reaches 4,693 meters at the Khunjerab Pass, marking the border between Pakistan and China.
Built as a joint project between the two countries, the KKH is a major engineering achievement. And it passes through some of Earth’s most rugged and remote areas.
Along the way, you’ll see incredible landscapes, including the Himalayas, Hindu Kush, and Karakoram Range, home to some of the world’s tallest mountains, like K2.
Along the route, there are plenty of historical and natural spots to visit, like the beautiful Hunza Valley in Pakistan with its ancient forts and Attabad Lake, formed by a landslide, where you can boat while surrounded by dramatic mountain views.
On the Chinese side, the highway enters the Xinjiang region, connecting to the famous Silk Road routes.
Amazingly, this road trip is a cultural experience, as the area is rich in traditions, languages, and history.
Although open to tourists, travelers should be ready for challenges like altitude sickness and rough road conditions.
3. The Golden Triangle, Thailand-Myanmar-Laos
The Golden Triangle is a culturally rich road trip through northern Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. Famed for its history and beauty, this route is known for its ancient temples, lively markets, and beautiful landscapes.
Starting in Chiang Mai, Thailand, you can explore historic temples like Wat Phra Singh and Doi Suthep and enjoy the busy night markets.
Crossing into Myanmar, you’ll reach Mandalay, where you can visit the Mandalay Palace and Kuthodaw Pagoda and take a boat ride on the Irrawaddy River.
From Mandalay, the journey continues to Bagan, famous for its thousands of ancient temples spread across the plains, offering one of Asia’s most fantastic sunset views.
The last part of the trip takes you to Luang Prabang in Laos, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its preserved architecture and cultural sites.
Once you arrive, it’s a peaceful city surrounded by mountains and rivers.
The Kuang Si Waterfalls and the chance to join a traditional alms-giving ceremony to the monks are highlights of the visit.
Traveling the Golden Triangle is a mix of adventure and cultural exploration as you pass through areas rich in history, from the old Lanna Kingdom in Thailand to the former royal capitals of Myanmar and Laos.
4. Pamir Highway, Tajikistan
The Pamir Highway, often called the “Roof of the World,” is one of the world’s highest and most remote road trips. It runs through Tajikistan, connecting the cities of Dushanbe and Khorog, and then continues into Kyrgyzstan.
With over 1,200 kilometers to cover, this highway takes you through the rugged and stunning landscapes of the Pamir Mountains.
Moreover, the altitudes often go above 4,000 meters, making it a true adventure.
As you travel, you’ll get breathtaking views of towering peaks, wide deserts, and crystal-clear rivers, so it’s a dream destination for adventure lovers.
Along the way, you’ll also pass through traditional Pamiri villages. These stops let you experience the warmth of the local people and get a taste of their unique culture.
Furthermore, the region is famous for its high-altitude lakes, like Karakul Lake, which is a popular stop for many travelers.
You’ll be happy to know that the road follows ancient Silk Road routes, and many of the small towns along the way are of historical importance.
For instance, Murghab is an important stop where you can access hiking trails and explore cultural landmarks.
That being said, the trip isn’t easy. The rough roads and high altitude can make driving tough, and with little infrastructure, you need to be well-prepared.
Still, for those up for the challenge, the sense of adventure and breathtaking views make the Pamir Highway one of Central Asia’s most unforgettable road trips.
5. Japanese Alps, Japan
The Japanese Alps offer one of the most scenic and culturally rich road trips in Japan, taking you right through the country’s stunning mountainous landscapes.
Usually, the trip begins in Takayama, a historic town known for its old wooden houses and lively morning markets.
From there, you can head to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
These charming, thatched-roof houses are set in a beautiful valley, giving you a glimpse of Japan’s rural past.
As you drive through the Hida Mountain Range, also known as the Japanese Alps, you’ll be treated to winding roads that cut through towering mountains and peaceful valleys.
If you’re traveling in winter, the snow-covered scenery is especially stunning. You can stop at Kamikochi, a highland valley with hiking trails beside crystal-clear rivers and breathtaking mountain views.
You can also continue the trip to Hakone, a region known for its hot springs and amazing views of Mount Fuji.
While in Hakone, you can take a cruise on Lake Ashi, relax in the hot springs, or visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which mixes modern art with nature’s beauty.
This road trip through the Japanese Alps is a great way to explore Japan’s natural beauty, historic towns, and the calming tradition of onsen (hot springs).
6. Patapat Viaduct, Philippines
The Patapat Viaduct is a stunning coastal road in northern Luzon, Philippines, offering amazing views of the South China Sea on one side and lush mountains on the other.
It’s often called one of the most beautiful drives in the Philippines, thanks to its dramatic path along the steep cliffs.
The viaduct itself is a 1.3-kilometer bridge that runs along the edge of the mountains, giving you sweeping views of the coast.
For most travelers, the drive typically starts in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, and heads north toward Pagudpud, a beach town known for its white sand and clear waters.
On the journey, you can stop at natural spots like the Kapupurawan Rock Formation, a stunning white limestone sculpture shaped by the wind and sea, or the Bangui Windmills, which are the first wind farms in Southeast Asia.
If you love nature, you’ll want to check out Agua Grande Park, just before the viaduct. The park features cool mountain streams that flow into the sea, making it a great spot for a picnic.
Near Pagudpud, you’ll also find the Blue Lagoon, famous for its turquoise waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming and water sports.
Capturing the essence of northern Luzon, the Patapat Viaduct road trip combines coastal beauty, cultural spots, and outdoor activities, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the area.
7. The Silk Road, Central Asia
The Silk Road is an old network of trade routes that connected the East and West, stretching for about 6,400 kilometers (or around 4,000 miles).
Historically speaking, it was super important because it helped different civilizations share their cultures, economies, and even politics for over a thousand years.
When we talk about Central Asia, the Silk Road passes through places like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
Because of that, these countries have many ancient cities, cool architecture, and a rich history to showcase.
One of the main spots on the Silk Road is Samarkand, which is in Uzbekistan. And this city was a big deal for traders back in the day.
Renowned throughout history, it’s famous for its amazing architecture, like the stunning Registan Square, the huge Bibi Khanum Mosque, and the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleum.
So, if you’re ever visiting, Samarkand is definitely one of those must-see places on the Silk Road.
Then, not too far from Samarkand, you’ve got Bukhara. This city was another key stop for traders and has many historical sites, such as mosques, madrasas (religious schools), and the massive Ark Fortress.
It’s safe to say that walking around here feels like you’re stepping into history.
And, if you head even further west, you’ll find Khiva, which is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It still feels like a medieval Silk Road city with its tall walls, minarets, and places where traders used to stay (called caravanserais).
Now, over in Kazakhstan, the Silk Road went through the southern part of the country, passing cities like Taraz and Turkestan.
Due to their strategic location, these cities were important trade hubs because of their location on the route.
Nowadays, they’re still must-visit spots if you’re exploring the Silk Road, with lots of history and culture to soak up.
8. The Hai Van Pass, Vietnam
The Hai Van Pass in Vietnam is a beautiful coastal route that stretches for 21 kilometers between Da Nang and Hue.
The views here are something else—the South China Sea on one side and lush, green mountains on the other.
They call it “The Ocean Cloud Pass” because it reaches up to 500 meters, making it the highest pass in Vietnam.
It’s not just about the views, though. The Hai Van Pass is also rich in history.
It was once the natural border between the ancient Champa and Dai Viet kingdoms, and during the Vietnam War, it became a strategic military point.
These days, it’s super popular with motorcyclists and travelers who want to soak in Vietnam’s stunning landscapes.
At the top of the pass, an old French-built bunker offers panoramic views and reminds you of the region’s tough past.
As you make your way down toward Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, you’ll come across amazing historical sites like the Imperial City and the Thien Mu Pagoda, which add even more depth to the trip.
9. Sri Lankan Coastal Route: Galle to Mirissa
If you’re looking for one of South Asia’s most scenic road trips, the Sri Lankan Coastal Route from Galle to Mirissa is where it’s at.
The drive takes you past beautiful beaches, lush tea plantations, and small fishing villages. You’ll start in Galle, which is known for its historic fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The fort is a great place to explore, showcasing a mix of Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture.
As you continue along the coast, you’ll pass through charming little beach towns with amazing views of the Indian Ocean.
You can stop at Hikkaduwa, famous for its coral reefs and vibrant beach vibe, or Unawatuna, where the calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Further down the road, you’ll come across Weligama, where you can see the iconic stilt fishermen and enjoy the crescent-shaped beach, a hotspot for beginner surfers.
And finally, you’ll reach Mirissa, a chill beach town known for whale-watching tours. Here, you might spot blue whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles!
Along the way, you can take plenty of detours, like visiting tea plantations in the nearby hills to see where Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea comes from or stopping at the Buddhist temples scattered across the landscape.
You’ll love this drive for its relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.
10. Phuket Northeast Loop, Thailand
The Phuket Northeast Loop is a great option if you want to escape the busy, tourist-filled areas of southern Phuket.
Along this route, you’ll experience peaceful scenery and stunning coastal views. You’ll kick things off at the Heroines Monument, and from there, the drive takes you along the northeastern coast of Phuket.
As you cruise along, you’ll get some amazing views of Phang Nga Bay, and you’ll stumble upon some hidden gems like quiet fishing villages and shrimp farms.
It’s a more real, laid-back side of Phuket where you can see how locals live, farm, and go about their daily lives.
One spot you shouldn’t miss is Bang Rong Village. It’s a traditional fishing village tucked away in a mangrove forest.
What’s cool about this place is its sustainable fishing methods, which give you a real feel for how the locals live.
You can stroll around the village, try some fresh seafood, and even hop on a boat to tour the mangroves. Pretty awesome, right?
And then there’s Bang Pat Village, which is kind of unique because it’s a floating village. You’ll love the peaceful vibes there, and it’s another great spot for fresh seafood.
And as you keep driving, the views keep getting better. You’ll pass by the beautiful Phang Nga Bay with its dramatic limestone cliffs.
If you’re into nature, there are plenty of spots to pull over and explore the beaches or take in the views.
Samet Nangshe is a must-see viewpoint along the way, where you can soak in the stunning panoramic views of the bay.
This is the perfect route if you’re looking for a more relaxing, scenic road trip away from all the touristy hustle and bustle.
It’s peaceful and beautiful, and it’s a side of Phuket most people don’t get to see.
Fuel Your Wanderlust with These Must-Do Asian Road Trips!
Now that you’ve got the ultimate list of must-experience road trips in Asia, it’s time to make your next adventure a reality.
You know exactly where you’re heading next, so go ahead—share the excitement with your friends and family!
Don’t let work or daily routines hold you back. Take that well-deserved break, pack your bags, and hit the open road.
The beauty and culture of Asia are waiting for you, so why wait? Adventure is just around the corner!
