6 Top Picks in Asia for July You’ll Love!

Wondering where to go in Asia in July? This month marks a unique time for travel across the continent. Despite short bursts of rain in some areas, countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Lao, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia come alive with lush greenery and rich cultural traditions. July is also a great time for travellers seeking affordable summer trips in Asia, with hotel and flight rates often lower than during peak season. Between tropical coolness and summer sunshine, this season invites you to explore vibrant landscapes and enjoy authentic, off-season experiences.

Vietnam (North and Central)

July is one of the best times to explore northern and central Vietnam. While afternoon rains are common, they are usually short and followed by clear skies. In return, nature is at its most vibrant. Terraced rice fields glow with shades of green, the northern mountains are majestic, and the central coastline shines in the summer light with clear water and comfortable temperatures.

📌 Where to visit in Vietnam?

Hanoi: The thousand-year-old capital with a blend of history, street food, and lively daily life.
Ha Long Bay: Stunning seascapes and boat cruises among limestone islands.
Ninh Binh: A peaceful place for boat rides through rice paddies and limestone cliffs.
Mai Chau and Pu Luong: Quiet valleys with terraced fields and ethnic Thai villages.
Sapa and the Northern Highlands: Perfect for trekking through rice terraces and visiting Hmong communities.
Ba Be, Cao Bang and Ha Giang: Unspoiled nature, lakes, rivers, and scenic mountain roads.
Phong Nha – Ke Bang: A national park that features some of the largest caves in the world.
Hue: The former imperial city with rich cultural heritage and historical monuments.
Da Nang and Hoi An: Relaxing beaches, limestone mountains, and the charm of an ancient trading town.

The islands of the Gulf of Thailand

Thinking about Thailand in July but worried about the rainy season? No stress! July’s actually a great time to visit, with milder weather than you’d expect. Sure, Bangkok and Phuket might see some showers, but they’re usually quick, lasting an hour or so in the late afternoon, followed by clear skies. In the Gulf of Thailand, you’ll likely get plenty of sunny days, perfect for chilling on the beach.

🏝️ Why Visit Thailand in July?

Fewer crowds: July’s low season means quieter beaches and less-packed tours. You’ll get a more laid-back vibe and real chats with locals.
Killer deals: Flights, hotels, and activities are way cheaper than peak season, so it’s prime time for budget travelers.
Gorgeous scenery: The rainy season makes Thailand’s jungles and hills super green, ideal for snapping photos or hiking.

📌 Which islands to privilege in July?

Koh Samui: Perfect for couples or families, with sunny weather and calm beaches. Its fancy resorts and chill cafes make it a fan favorite.

Koh Phangan: Famous for wild beaches, secret coves, and the epic Full Moon Party. Non-party days are super relaxing and low-key.

Koh Tao: A must for divers, with crystal-clear waters. July’s one of the best months for snorkeling and scuba in the Gulf.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

July marks the beginning of the green season in Cambodia, making it a unique and rewarding time to visit. But does it rain? Yes, it does. Rain usually falls in the afternoon or evening, though it rarely lasts all day. The upside is that nature comes alive: rice fields turn a vibrant green, roads become less dusty, and after the rain, the temples of Angkor look even more majestic under the soft light.

This month also brings fewer tourists compared to the high season. You’ll find a calmer, more peaceful atmosphere at popular sites like Angkor Wat. While the heat is still present, afternoon showers help cool things down, making sightseeing more comfortable. If you're thinking about traveling to Cambodia in July, this is a great time to explore Angkor without the crowds and enjoy the country’s lush landscapes.

📌 Best Places to Visit in Cambodia in July

Angkor Wat: The iconic must-see temple, even more breathtaking in the morning light after a summer rain.
Angkor Thom: The ancient royal capital, known for its grand gates and mystical ambiance.
Bayon: Famous for its stone-carved faces, which appear especially striking under a cloudy sky.
Ta Prohm: Often called “the temple of trees,” where massive roots wrap around centuries-old ruins.
Banteay Srei: A pink sandstone masterpiece with intricate carvings, best viewed at sunrise.
Tonlé Sap: The great lake of Cambodia, with its floating villages that come to life during the rainy season.

Mongolia

Mongolia, located between Russia to the north and China to the south, is one of the least densely populated countries in the world, with only three million inhabitants. Its territory extends over vast steppes, mountain ranges, and arid deserts, forming an endless horizon... These grandiose landscapes invite you to escape completely, far from any urban footprint.

July is the ideal time to explore Mongolia: pleasant weather, neither too hot nor too cold, green steppes that stretch as far as the eye can see, and above all, the Naadam festival, the country's most important event, held every year at this time. This festival highlights three traditional Mongolian sports:

Horse racing: Horsemen, often very young, travel tens of kilometers through the steppes.
Mongolian wrestling: An ancestral sport where wrestlers face each other without a time limit or weight class.
Archery: A discipline practiced by both men and women, with traditional wooden bows.

Beyond the competitions, the Naadam is a time of celebration and national pride, marked by parades, traditional costumes, and a unique atmosphere. If you dream of galloping on horseback through the vastness of the steppes, sharing the life of nomads, or crossing the Gobi Desert on the back of a camel, this is the ideal time to do it.

📌 What to Do and See in Mongolia?

Sleeping in a yurt: An essential experience to live like a true nomad.
Explore the infinite steppes: Grandiose landscapes, wild lands, and vast expanses of desert.
Discover the ancient capital Karakorum: Historical remains of the largest land empire in history.
Attending the Naadam Festival: Horse racing, Mongolian wrestling, and archery; Mongolian traditions in action.
Drinking fermented mare's milk (Airag): A typical drink, with a unique and surprising flavor.
Visit the Khongor Dunes: Singing dunes of the Gobi Desert, perfect for a camel ride.
Observe the eagles of the Altai: Encounter with Kazakh hunters and their ancestral technique of hunting with eagles.
Crossing the Orkhon Valley: Land of history and nature, ideal for horseback riding.
Improvised hitchhiking: In Mongolia, any vehicle can be converted into a taxi.
Explore Ulaanbaatar: Central square, statue of Genghis Khan, and an atmosphere that combines modernity and Soviet heritage.

Siargao, Philippines

If you are passionate about beaches, surfing, and wild nature, Siargao is a destination not to be missed. Dubbed the "surfing capital of the Philippines," the island offers world-class waves, especially at Cloud 9, along with paradisiacal beaches, turquoise lagoons, and endless coconut groves that stretch as far as the eye can see.

📌 You Can't Miss It:

Cloud 9 Surf Lesson: No matter your skill level, you can rent a board and take a class.
Island-hopping to Guyam, Daku, and Naked Island: Three small gems with crystal-clear waters.
Sugba Lagoon: A surreal blue lagoon surrounded by lush vegetation.
Magpupungko Rock Pools: Natural tide pools that appear at low tide, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Walk along the Maasin River: A peaceful river lined with palm trees and a famous rope swing over the water.

CONCLUSION

In July, Asia offers lush nature and landscapes at their best. Despite occasional rain, usually brief, the days remain ideal for exploration. With the tropical climate and seasonal changes, traveling at this time of year lets you discover vibrant scenery and a lively culture, all in the unique atmosphere of an Asian summer.

💡 Worried about missing the highlights or wasting time planning your trip? Contact us for a tailor-made journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos, with private and completely free travel advice.

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