The Top 10 Family Travel Destinations in Asia — Our Kid’s favourite

1. Vietnam—For Everyday Adventures That Stay With You

Vietnam has quietly woven itself into our family’s journey. Our first trip, just the two of us, was all about checking off the must-sees—Ho Chi Minh City, budget cruises in Halong Bay, and food hopping in Hanoi.

It was fun, fast, and full of energy.

But it wasn’t until we returned with our daughter that we started to feel the deeper rhythm of Vietnam. We traded city chaos for quiet mornings in Sapa, sipping coffee while ducks paddled across our cafe’s lake and women tended the rice paddies nearby.

That’s when we realized Vietnam is more than just scooter runs and trendy cafés. It’s a place where slow travel shines.

With both our kids now, we’ve watched them fall in love with the little things—riding bicycles with us through the countryside, collecting flowers on temple grounds, and waving at locals from café verandas. We skipped the famous Hanoi train street of Vietnam (couldn’t find it safe with two energetic humans); yep, admired it safely from a quiet viewpoint with a coconut coffee in hand.)

And the adventures? Still there, just softer and more memorable.

The overnight train with snacks and sleepy giggles. Motorbike rides in Dalat’s pine forests. Gliding past limestone cliffs in Halong Bay. Mud caves in Phong Nha that ended with shrieks of laughter at the floating waterpark.

Vietnam has this rare balance—it’s playful, peaceful, and full of wonder. A perfect place in Asia where you can reconnect with nature, show resilience to your kids, and find your own pace again. We can vote Vietnam as our best family travel destination in Asia.

2. Indonesia – Beaches, Nature, and Temples.

Indonesia has given us two completely different versions of travel—one wild and carefree, the other tender and wide-eyed. Our first time in Bali was all about scooters, sunsets, temples, and that little bit of chaos we somehow loved.

But everything shifted when we returned with our daughter.

This time, we chose the quiet side, and Ubud fit perfectly. Slow mornings in Ubud villas with short yet meaningful walks through rice paddies, fresh air, rooster calls, and wide-open space (rare in Bali’s center—Canggu or Kuta).

The Monkey Forest is my baby’s favorite, obviously because of the furry, clever friends, and she quickly learned how to spot monkeys (and hide her snacks). We even took her on the Mt. Batur sunrise hike when she was just 2.5 years old. It was hectic, an early start, and chilly air—but all worth it when we made it happily while carrying our little one and answering all the way, “Why is this black volcanic soil here, and who colored it? She played in the clouds at the top, chatting with every random hiker like they were old friends.

Seminyak gave us lazy beach days and affordable villa stays. She chased crabs, collected shells, and played near older kids with surfboards—our little beach baby, clearly loving water more than both of us.

When we needed even more calm, we headed north to Lovina and Munduk, where black sand beaches, rice terraces, and cool mountain air helped us truly slow down. And yes, there were a few Western restaurants too—perfect for calming a toddler’s sudden cravings.

Bali is mostly warm and sunny, but don’t let the “dry season” fool you. We’ve experienced 2–3 days of straight rain in July, so be ready with umbrellas, fast-drying sandals, and lots of sunscreen when the sun breaks through.

Beyond Bali, Indonesia holds even more for families craving something raw. In Sumatra, you can hike to the rim of an active volcano or trek through dense jungle in Bukit Lawang in search of orangutans. It’s not polished—and that’s exactly why it lingers in your memory.

We also explored Nusa Penida and even Lombok (yes, the ferry ride was five long, nauseous hours—but worth it). Each island brought something different. But in the end, it was Bali that gave us something rare: affordable ease, warm hospitality, and a kind of quiet joy. A place where both kids and parents get what they need—sometimes from the same beach.

Because Indonesia doesn’t ask you to choose between adventure and rest. One day, it’s waterfalls and temple ruins. Next, it’s poolside naps and coconut pancakes. Whether you’re raising little beach lovers, tiny hikers, or just two tired parents in need of space to breathe, Indonesia meets you exactly where you are.

3. India—For Culture, Chaos, and Lifelong Memories.

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We lived in India for nearly two years—and it shaped us in ways we never expected.

At first glance, India may not seem like the easiest destination for families. But for those willing to lean into its rhythm, this country offers more color, soul, and story than almost anywhere we’ve been in Asia with kids.

Now, we can confidently say: India is a land of contrasts.

One day, you’re navigating a chaotic train station with toddlers and backpacks in tow; the next, you’re sipping chai on a quiet Himalayan morning, chatting with locals as the mist rises over the hills.

We explored it all—from the northern hill towns to the sun-washed beaches of the south—and everywhere in between. India constantly surprised us, challenged us, and offered us new ways to see the world.

From our experience, North India can feel intense at first. But when you slow down and travel with open expectations, it becomes unforgettable—like witnessing the Taj Mahal in the soft light of morning or tracing your fingers along the intricate carvings of Rajasthan’s royal forts.

Our kids adored the tuk-tuk rides through Jaipur’s pink streets, chasing pigeons in sprawling fort courtyards, and the warm welcomes from locals—complete with sweets and bright tikka marks in temple lanes.

Train rides turned into mini-adventures in India —windows wide open, snacks passed around, and endless scenery rolling by. Just be mindful about choosing your seats to avoid the most crowded compartments.

But not everything was high energy.

In Rishikesh, tucked in the Himalayan foothills, we slowed down. We woke to quiet yoga mornings, strolled along peaceful riverbanks, and watched the Ganges glow during evening aartis.

Down south, Kerala felt like a soft exhale—floating through the backwaters on a houseboat, coconut trees swaying, life moving just a bit slower.

When we craved the sea, South Goa became our reset button.

During the six months we lived in Mumbai, we’d hop on a train almost every month to the beach—Panaji, Gokarna, or some quiet stretch of South Goa where a beach shack served the perfect mix of dal, fries, and coffee.

Pondicherry charmed us with its blend of French architecture and Indian soul—a dream for café lovers and design wanderers.

And if you think Goa is the only beach scene in India, think again. You can go snorkeling in the Andamans, or now even explore the untouched coral waters of Lakshadweep, which has recently opened up to foreign travelers.

Yes, India asks more of traveling families—but it gives so much more in return.

The key is to slow down, plan gently, and allow time to rest between the vibrant chaos.

It’s not a place to just tick off a list. It’s a place that stirs your senses. But honestely India is not for the unprepared.

If you truly want to enjoy your vacation in India and share this rich culture with your kids, do your homework, plan smart, and give yourselves the grace to go slow.

Now, if the thought of visiting India with kids catches your mind read our India guide below.

This guide shares our firsthand experiences—so you can plan thoughtfully and create a peaceful, memorable family journey.

–Read our Beginner’s Guide to Family Travel in India carefully, as it’s full of tips, tricks, and our experiences of navigating India with kids confidently.

4. Sri Lanka—Raw Coastal Beauty, Calm Villages, and Easy-Paced Adventures

We’re huge fans of Sri Lanka—it remains one of our favorite places to visit with kids, especially while we were based in India. It’s close, accessible, and feels like it was made for slow, thoughtful travel.

Our family’s journey focused mostly on the south and east, and every region brought something new. From the soft sands of Arugam Bay, where beach days unfolded at kid-speed, to early morning safaris in Udawalawe National Park, where we watched elephants cross our path in near silence—the kind of moment that still lives in our daughter’s stories.

Sri Lanka has a raw beauty that doesn’t try too hard. Villages feel calm and welcoming, and even tourist towns like Mirissa or Unawatuna carry a peaceful rhythm. Cafés with fresh juices, tasting the organic tea in tea gardens of Ella, guesthouses with swings, and the magical train rides through the tea hills gave us days full of color without chaos.

The second time, one long weekend, we made it up to Dambulla, tucked inside Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. It’s now one of our top family holiday memories. We hiked the majestic Sigiriya Rock (with snack breaks, of course), explored ancient cave paintings in the Dambulla Caves, and held our breath during a magical elephant crossing on a jeep safari through Kaudulla National Park.

And this is the country we’re already dreaming of returning to—this time with both our kids fully ready to take it all in.

Sri Lanka isn’t flashy, but it has a quiet magic—it gives you room to slow down, feel present, and enjoy travel in its purest form. Whether it’s barefoot beach mornings or misty mountain walks, there’s something here for every kind of family.

5. Bhutan – For Preserved Culture, Mountain Hikes, and Storybook Stillness.

Few families venture to Bhutan — a tiny, land-locked Himalayan kingdom that feels as belongs to another time in this fast-paced world. And perhaps that’s what makes it so special.

Bhutan is still and calm in every corner. It’s a place that has chosen to preserve its culture, environment, and pace, and it shows, in all the right ways.

We spent a week here, traveling through green valleys and quiet mountain towns with our elder one, who was just over three at the time. We have hiked to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a sacred site perched dramatically on a cliffside. The trail is steep in parts, but steady, and with patience, snack breaks, and a few story-time pauses, we made it up just fine and beautifully. For families with younger kids, consider that there’s only one rest stop along the way for food and washroom breaks.

We packed our breakfast from our stay and took it slow. Honestly, the views and silence made every step worth it.

What stood out the most in Bhutan wasn’t just the beauty (though it’s everywhere — the Punakha Valley, the dzongs, the fluttering prayer flags), but the care the country puts into staying true to itself.

This Asian beauty welcomes tourists with a cost and doesn’t bend over backward to entertain. It teaches you to come with respect, and rewards you with serenity, raw nature, and a culture so intact it feels like a living nature’s museum.

Families with older kids might enjoy white-water rafting on the Mo Chhu (we missed it, though ) — a gentle but thrilling ride through forested valleys and past ancient bridges. Even little ones will love the space to run, the warm local meals, and the kindness of the Bhutanese people, especially the family guides who take their time with you.

Bhutan is a shining example of what travel should be — a force for community upliftment, cultural preservation, and mutual respect. It reminds you that meaningful travel isn’t always about seeing more — it’s about seeing deeper.

6. Malaysia – For Urban Energy, Easy Nature, and Kid-Friendly place

Just moving the track from South Asia to the urban metropolis of Malaysia. Out of all the countries we’ve visited in Asia, Malaysia struck us as one of the most kid-friendly destinations.

A perfect middle ground between buzzing cities, peaceful beaches, and wildlife adventures that stay with you.

We first passed through Kuala Lumpur as a couple, a short city break tacked onto our Bali trip. But it wasn’t until we returned with our little one, on a two-week family trip, that we really felt its rhythm.

Kuala Lumpur isn’t just a city — it’s surprisingly relaxed and easy to navigate, especially around KLCC Park, where our toddler loved splashing in the fountains under the Petronas Towers. Between the aquarium, the Petrosains Discovery Centre, and café stops, there was always something to keep little hands busy.

But it’s outside the capital where Malaysia really opened up for us. Penang became our slow-travel favorite. From George Town’s vibrant street art and temples to kid-friendly spots like Penang Hill and Entopia Butterfly Park, the days felt full without feeling rushed. We’d wander the quiet trails of Penang National Park, visit the turtle sanctuary, and then wind down at local cafes, all while our daughter ran freely in gardens or at science museums.

For families who crave both nature and culture in equal doses, Penang really delivers.

Of course, we couldn’t miss Langkawi — where jungle-backed beaches meet sky bridges and ziplines. From the Langkawi SkyCab rides to Paradise Island 101’s floating waterpark, every day felt like a new mini adventure. And those quiet boat rides around Kilim Karst Geopark were exactly the kind of peace we look for now, traveling with our water-loving baby.

For something raw and wild, Borneo’s Sabah and Sarawak regions hold a special place in our hearts. Our orangutan-spotting trips in Sepilok felt like real wildlife documentaries come to life, which our daughter takes in memories back home. And wandering through Kuching’s riverside markets or hiking through Bako National Park with a toddler on our back made us realize — adventure doesn’t always need crowds or big names. It can be quiet, local, and deeply memorable.

What really stood out in Malaysia wasn’t just the variety, but how easy and accessible it all felt with kids. Grab taxis, family-friendly resorts, vegetarian food options, clean public spaces — all those small comforts parents notice.

Malaysia may not always top travel wish lists for you, just for urban metropolitan branding, but once you experience it, you’ll know why it should. It’s one of those places that makes you feel both recharged and connected, without overwhelming the little ones along the way.

7. Thailand – For Easy Beaches, Temples, and a Taste of Adventure

Thailand has always been that place we kept coming back to — first as a couple, then again and again as parents. From city buzz to quiet islands, it somehow balances both.

Like many, we started with Bangkok. While the city’s chaos felt exciting in our pre-kid era, these days we prefer to keep it brief — a day or two wandering markets and temples near Khao San Road before heading to calmer places.

We really started exploring Thailand’s beach life when our little water baby came along. Before our second one arrived, we took a dedicated trip focused just on the southern coast with our then 4-year-old daughter, already in love with the sea.

Watching her try surfing alongside her dad in knee-deep waves or floating for hours on calm beaches made us realize Thailand isn’t just for backpackers or honeymooners.

One island that stood out to us was Koh Lipe. Just two hours by ferry from Langkawi in Malaysia, it’s raw yet easy enough with kids — white sand, turquoise water, and family-friendly resorts where you can step straight from breakfast into the sea.

We spent hours on Pattaya Beach, as our baby enjoyed building castles and chasing tiny fish. For families who like snorkeling or trying beginner dives, it’s part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, so everything feels safe and clean.

When we wanted a cultural break from beaches, Chiang Mai was where we slowed down. Temples tucked around every corner, gentle walking streets, and hands-on experiences like Thai cooking classes — the kind where even kids can mix herbs and roll spring rolls.

And yes, Thailand can feel touristy — much like Bali. But with kids, that’s not always a bad thing. Easy transport, kid-friendly restaurants, English-speaking locals, and great-value accommodations all add up to a smoother trip. It’s one of those rare places that manages to blend party destinations and family-friendly vacation spots in a single land.

From quiet sunrises on Sunset Beach in Koh Lipe to sticky mango rice in Chiang Mai’s night markets, Thailand has given us memories in every season of family life. It’s approachable, affordable, and full of small joys — whether it’s your first family trip to Asia or your fifth.

8. Cambodia – For Humbling History, Kind Locals, and Slow Island Days

Cambodia felt like more than just another stop on our Asia travels. It’s a country where humanity shows its strength — rising from a difficult past with quiet grace and genuine warmth.

We visited when our daughter was just two years old. That made it easier to carry her close in a baby carrier, while exploring both history and nature at a slower, mindful pace.

Like many families, Siem Reap and Angkor Wat were at the top of our list. We gave ourselves three days to simply wander — temple-hopping through ancient ruins, marvelling at intricate carvings, and pausing for coconuts when the midday heat set in. There’s something almost meditative about moving through those grand stone hallways, even with a toddler in tow.

One thing we skipped was the zipline over Angkor Wat — little ones aren’t allowed, and honestly, we didn’t mind slowing down instead. It’s on our list for when we return, now with both kids.

Beyond temples, Cambodia surprised us with peaceful moments too. A boat ride through the floating villages and mangrove forests felt like pressing pause — quiet, green, and calm, with nothing but the soft splash of oars in the water.

We also explored Phnom Penh’s capital monuments and riverside walks, but as relaxed as the city felt, there are a few things families should keep in mind-

• Prices in cafes and restaurants, especially in Siem Reap, are usually quoted in US dollars, so small expenses can add up quicker than you expect.
• .Chinese-led development is visible almost everywhere now — new hotels, casinos, and construction projects that weren’t there a few years ago. It changes the landscape, but the country’s heart remains.

And then there are Cambodia’s islands. Places like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem — still wild, still raw, where Wi-Fi is patchy, roads barely exist, and fresh fruit and pancakes in beachfront cafes become a simple daily joy.

We spent slow days there: swimming, spotting monkeys in the jungle, and just letting time unfold as it liked. It really did feel like Thailand’s beaches 30 years ago — before the crowds, before the noise.

If you’re looking for a family destination that offers both reflection and relaxation, Cambodia quietly delivers. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t try too hard. But it leaves you feeling lighter, calmer — and maybe a little more human.

9. Laos – For Calm Streets, Soft Adventures, and Slow-Down Moments

Laos wasn’t a deep dive for us — not yet. We only managed a quick three-day visit while wrapping up our Cambodia trip as a couple, before kids entered the picture. But even in that short time, Luang Prabang left a peaceful kind of imprint. It’s one of those rare Asian cities that feels walkable, calm, and somehow untouched.

The small-town vibe here is real. Colonial-era buildings, tree-lined streets, wide sidewalks — perfect for families wanting a quieter pace without the constant worry of traffic or big crowds. We could picture exploring it with our little ones someday when life allows for another longer trip.

Things we noted for “next time with kids”-
Buffalo Dairy for its unique ice cream and hands-on farm fun. Ock Pop Tok Dyeing Classes to learn about fabric dyeing and the best activity for kids to try hands-on Lao textiles in a way that’s gentle and creative. Royal Palace Museum Gardens for safe, open spaces where toddlers can run around without needing to follow a strict plan.

And the food — light, fresh, full of herbs and flavor without being too spicy for little palates. It’s the kind of destination that doesn’t shout for your attention but offers a soft adventure, especially if you’re a family that prefers slow mornings and quiet evenings.

We’re keeping Laos on our “return with kids” list for exactly that reason — an easy-going, affordable country where nature, culture, and family travel blend effortlessly.

10. Japan – Our favourite for Family Travel That Sticks With You.

Japan wasn’t the first country we visited as parents, but now it stands as one of our all-time favorites. We explored it during cherry blossom season with both our kids—and the balance Japan offers between nature, culture, and calmness made it feel like a breath of fresh air in Asia’s often overwhelming pace.

From the moment you land, everything just works: the trains, the streets, even the tiniest public parks. There’s a natural respect for shared spaces here that makes it feel especially family-friendly.

We based ourselves between Tokyo and Kyoto.

Tokyo surprised us with its family-friendly parks and gardens. Our kids loved exploring Hamarikyu Gardens and running around the Imperial Palace grounds. Of course, we couldn’t skip Disney Sea—honestly, it was as much for us as it was for them.

Food was another unexpected win. While we carried our backup snacks as always, our toddler fell in love with Japanese dishes—rice, tonkatsu, miso soup. And there’s always Italian food and bakeries if your kids prefer familiar flavors.

Kyoto slowed things down beautifully. We stayed near Kyoto Station to avoid crowded buses and focused on temple walks and quiet moments. Fushimi Inari Shrine’s red tori gates became our daughter’s personal racetrack, and the bamboo groves of Arashiyama felt like stepping into a storybook.

For families wanting something beyond city life, regions like Shikoku or rural fishing villages offer stand-up paddleboarding, ancient pilgrimage trails, and tie-dye workshops—but we recommend those for older kids, once they can handle more active days.

And yes, there’s weight to Japan too. Visiting Hiroshima and Nagasaki with our elder one was emotional but important. Even at her age, the peace museums left an impression—she still brings it up whenever global conflicts come up in conversation.

Japan isn’t the cheapest family destination in Asia. But it’s one of the most organized, cleanest, and culturally rich places we’ve experienced as parents. From spotless and smooth bullet trains to cafes where even toddlers are quietly welcomed, everything here feels thoughtful and intentional.

Just have a good translation app handy and trust Japan’s 7-Eleven for quick meals, snacks, or even toddler essentials — both make family days here surprisingly easy.

It’s the kind of trip we’d recommend when your kids are old enough to really notice the world around them—where history, etiquette, and nature all weave together into memories that last.

What countries didn’t make the list?

Of course, some places didn’t make our list this time. South Korea — we haven’t explored it yet as a family, though it’s high on our wish list. I’d love to one day experience those peaceful countryside villages and that slow-paced life you glimpse in K-dramas.

Nepal is another. We’ve visited, but found it a little more demanding with young kids — especially when we already have similar mountain escapes closer in India and Bhutan.

The Philippines also didn’t quite fit our family rhythm. While its beaches are stunning, the constant island-hopping felt a bit hectic with little ones in tow. And Singapore — as much as we enjoy its clean streets, indoor museums, and the latest attractions like Jurassic World — felt more like a city break. For us, Malaysia offered more of what we love: open spaces, nature, and family-friendly experiences that fit both our pace and our budget.

It’s never about ticking every country off the map. Some places leave a deep mark because of where you are in life when you visit — others, you quietly know you’ll return to when the time is right.

And while our kids might not remember every hike, temple, or rainy day tuk-tuk ride, we do. It’s these shared journeys — messy, beautiful, sometimes chaotic — that stay with us as parents too. After all, family travel isn’t only about what the kids take in. It’s about what it gives back to all of us.