Best art museums in Asia for art lovers

Experience fine art at one of the top museums and galleries in Asia.

Art Science Museum - Singapore

As the name suggests, Art Science Museum at Marina Bay Sands beautifully fuses art and science to tell fascinating stories. This premier venue houses a constantly changing line-up of major international touring exhibitions, brought in through collaborations with organizations such as the American Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian Institute, and world-renowned furniture designer Herman Miller.

Address: 6 Bayfront Ave, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) - Thailand

A must for any lover of art, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Bangkok (MOCA) houses the most comprehensive collection of modern painting and sculpture in Thailand inside a striking, purpose-built gallery. The five storeys of MOCA contain over 800 pieces of art collected by communications magnate Boonchai Bencharongkul and showcase the development of Thai fine art since the introduction of modern western concepts.

Address: 499 Kamphaeng Phet 6 Rd, Chatuchak, Khet Chatuchak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Thailand

MOA Museum of Art - Japan

The MOA Museum of Art is spectacularly located on the slopes above Atami and exhibits an impressive collection of Japanese and East Asian art. The MOA Museum of Art was opened in 1982 by the Mokichi Okada Association (MOA). Okada Mokichi was an avid art collector who lived from 1882 to 1955 and also founded the Hakone Museum of Art in Gora.

Address: 26-2 Momoyamacho, Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan

Museum of Contemporary Art Shanghai - China

The best part of the Museum of Contemporary Art Shanghai (MOCA) is the prime location smack dab in a lovely green portion of People's Square. Sunlight and panoramic views pour in through the museum's floor to ceiling glass walls. International exhibitions are the name of the game at MOCA with Spain's flamboyant architect, Antoni Gaudi, highlighting last year's exhibitions and Salvatore Ferragamo this year. The ArtLab, a new, trendy space for stage events just opened in the spring.

Address: 231 Nanjing W Rd, RenMin GuangChang, Huangpu Qu, Shanghai Shi, China

See more: The interesting museums to visit in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

The best places to have desserts in Penang, Malaysia

It takes a lot for Penangites to swap their ais kacang (sweet shaved ice dessert) and pisang goreng (banana fritters) for other desserts – but swap they have, because these places have made Penang a sweeter place all around.

Dolce Dessert

The desserts at Dolce aren’t just dolce (sweet), they’re also incredibly pretty. Exquisite crème brûlées, lemon pralines and passionfruit pavlovas are presented with such Instagrammable flair that it’s almost a shame to eat them. This dessert place is also known for its macarons, which are a light, fluffy, not-too-sweet affair running the full gamut of flavours from orange butternut to pistachio and coffee.

Merry Me

The reason you’re here is simple: You want your Kopitiam (coffee shop) white coffee hot, and your salted egg cookies and your tau fu fah (soft beancurd in gula melaka, Malaccan palm sugar) iced, sweet and in a cone. Between salted egg Oreo ice cream and tau fu fah flavours topped with swirls of sticky gula melaka, this is the best place to indulge in your post-meal cravings without hitting the street stalls.

Norm

If you want waffles, coffee, cocktails and a bit of joy, this is the place to have it all. Warm, crispy waffles are the norm here – from the Regular Joe waffle topped with rich, melting butter to the Monkey Business banana split drizzled with chocolate sauce. We recommend the Go Go Coco, with coconut ice cream, homemade kaya (coconut jam) syrup and toasted palm seeds – because joy should be the norm, really.

Fourspoons

Bring your friends, because Fourspoons shouldn’t be a one-person secret. This delicious hideout in Icon City, the new strip mall in Bukit Mertajam, delivers apple crumble pancakes, sweet potato waffles and black sesame soft-serve ice cream to your table or your door (even if it’s in Kuala Lumpur). Paralysed by choice? Go for the classic chocolate banana waffle – you may even forgo the optional four spoons and have one all to yourself.

The Craftisan

Minimalists will love The Craftisan’s decor, coffee enthusiasts will love its cold brew, and sweet-toothers will love its dessert. The delicately crafted delícias de serradura (sawdust pudding) is served with soft gelato, while the decadent jackfruit panna cotta is topped with coconut flakes and gula melaka. For novelty, you can also try the unique Stacko Valentino: a crispy donut layered with whipped cream, fresh fruit and chocolate glaze.

Crepe Cottage

Ever thought you could combine fresh honeydew, green tea and crepes? Well, it’s time to expand your gastronomic horizons at Crepe Cottage, where crepe-based sweets and savouries reign supreme. Between strawberry rolls, coconut parcels and mango crepe cups, you’ll be spoiled for choice at this simple, no-frills, cottage-style establishment.

See more: What to do in Penang, Malaysia 

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Top Buddhist sites to see in India

Buddhist Tourism in India is a pilgrimage tour to the world famous sites related to Gautama Buddha. These religious sites and Buddhist place of pilgrimage are the most important holy place for Buddhists in India. There are three main pilgrimage sites in India for Buddhist Tourism, Bodh Gaya, Kushinagar and Sarnath, Lumbini is in Nepal and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO along with Bodh Gaya in Bihar.

Gaya, Bihar

Located some 110 kilometers from the state of Bihar’s capital city Patna is Gaya district, home to one of the holiest pilgrimage sites revolving around the life of Gautama Buddha for followers of Buddhism. The Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment while sitting under a large peepal tree known as the Bodhi tree at a location which is today known as Bodh Gaya. The Maha Bodhi Temple which features a huge statue of the Buddha in a deep meditation, is another major attraction in Gaya which attracts numerous Buddhists and those curious about the life of the Buddha.

Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

Kushinagar is one of the four sacred Buddhist places in India as this is where at the age of 81, Buddha passed away. This is also the site of his last lesson where he said “All things must pass. Decay is inherent in all things”. The area houses the Rambhar Stupa which is said to have been built at the same place as where Buddha was cremated. There is also a Mahaparinirvana temple which holds a magnificent statue of Buddha in reclining position. Other than these, there are some temples, stupas, shrines and a museum here. It is one of the most important Buddhist places in India.

Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh

Photo UP Tourism

This ancient town in ruins today was one of the six largest cities in India during the Buddha’s lifetime. The city is the place where the Buddha lived for the longest amount of time. Ancient remains indicate that his teachings had a great following in Shravasti. Several age-old stupas and temples from the Buddha’s times still remain in the town, attracting tourists and followers from around the globe.

Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

Sarnath marks the beginning of Buddha’s sermons and preaching. It was in a deer park, in this very district that Buddha gave his first sermons, after enlightenment. Sarnath is one of the four sacred Buddhist places in India with structures such as Dhamekh Stupa and Chaukhandi Stupa that celebrate its historical significance.

Barabar Caves

These Buddhist cave temples are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, dating back to the 3rd century B.C.E. Located some 24 km north of Gaya in the state of Bihar, these caves were used by generations of Buddhist ascetics as well as by Jains. The caves are said to have been built by the famous Buddhist Emperor Ashoka. Featuring four major caves, called Karan Chaupar, Lomas Rishi, Sudama, and Visva Zopri, each of which are detailed with inscriptions and elaborate sculptures, these cave structures are said to have greatly influenced the likes of the Ajanta caves in Maharashtra.

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamshala is an important Buddhist tourist destination in India, along with suburb of McLeod Ganj. It is the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh and also one of the famous bird watching spots in India, located in the Kangra Valley and part of the Tea Tourism industry known as Kangra tea. Tsuglagkhang or Dalai Lama Temple Complex near Mcleod Ganj is the official home of the 14th Dalai Lama and a must visit place in Dharamshala.

See more: Conquer the best hiking destinations in India

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Top destinations to visit in North India

Remnants of ancient empires, cosmopolitan cities, spiritual towns, scenic mountains, picturesque lakes and lush valleys are all part of North India’s vast and diverse landscape. This is a list of some of the best places to visit in North India.

Delhi

Delhi is a uniquely historic and cosmopolitan city that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Its historic monuments, landscaped gardens, amazing food, bustling markets, vibrant art and nightlife scene, diverse cultures and youthful liveliness all make this city wonderfully dynamic. Some notable attractions include the iconic India Gate, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Chandi Chowk, Lotus temple and Lodhi Gardens.

Agra

Certainly one of the most well-known places in North India, Agra is famed for its historic sights, which are reminiscent of the Mughal-era. From the iconic Taj Mahal and 16th-century Agra Fort to the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra is a dream for architecture aficionados and history buffs.

Varanasi

Dating back to the 6th century BC, Varanasi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the country. For centuries, it’s been an important site for Hindu pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the world. People come here to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and attain inner peace, beside taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges – part of an ancient ritual of purification of soul, body and mind. You’ll see around 87 ghats (flights of steps leading to the river) and more than 2,000 temples, mostly dedicated to Hindu god Shiva. Do not leave without attending the Ganga aarti (prayer ritual held every evening) and enjoying a boat ride along the Ganges.

Amritsar

Amritsar is a treasure in terms of history, culture and gastronomy. The city impresses thoroughly with its breathtakingly beautiful Golden Temple (sacred seat of Sikhism), the Wagah border (crossing lying on the grand trunk road between India and Pakistan) and the Jallianwala Bagh (a massacre memorial and garden). Make sure you try the local Punjabi food, especially the langar at the Golden Temple.

Parvati Valley

Parvati Valley beckons to nature lovers and keen adventurers. Here, visitors can discover picture-perfect villages of Kasol, Malana and Tosh – complete with unspoilt natural beauty, hippie vibes, and outdoor activities such as trekking and riverside camping. Ideal for those seeking respite from bustling city life.

Manali

At an altitude of 2,050 metres in the Beas Valley lies Manali, Manali is one of North India’s best ski places in winter. Come summer when the snows have retreated, it becomes one of the best spots for adventure enthusiasts, who can indulge in river rafting in Beas River, trekking in Rohtang Pass and Beas Kund; paragliding, zorbing and yak riding in Solang Valley. Adventurous outings not your thing? Fret not! Manali has plenty of other places on offer, including ancient temples, Tibetan monasteries, wildlife sanctuaries, art and cultural centres.

Leh-Ladakh

With Himalayas in the south and the Karakoram mountains in the north, Leh-Ladakh is a favourite retreat for trekkers and biking enthusiasts. The place is also home to several Buddhist monasteries overlooking a spectacular panoramic vista of snow-clad mountains and icy glaciers. Those seeking peace can stay at the monasteries and partake in the spiritual retreats.

Rajasthan

Dubbed the ‘Land of Kings’, Rajasthan has been captivating the hearts of locals and tourists alike for years, with its ancient forts, glamorous palaces, exquisite havelis (mansions), diverse landscape, vibrant art and culture, and traditional cuisine. Though there are many worthwhile places to explore in the royal land, the best ones include the imperial cities of Jodhpur, Bikaner and Udaipur, the pink city of Jaipur, the golden city of Jaisalmer and the holy city of Ajmer.

See more: The best destinations for extreme sports in India

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What to do in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is fast becoming a favourite among travellers wanting to discover Central Asia. Its capital, Tashkent, has no shortage of things to discover and do, from traditional teahouses to vibrant street art.

Taste fresh produce at Chorsu Bazaar

You could spend weeks wandering around Tashkent’s biggest market, Chorsu Bazaar, which sells everything from clothes and kitchenware to traditional handicrafts and fresh food. Check out the bread section and watch the expert bakers shaping the dough into rounds before using a long paddle to slap it onto the inside of a wood-fired oven, where it sticks to the walls and bakes upside down. Nearby is the fresh produce section, where sellers set out piles of fruits, vegetables and herbs; the sweet melons and grapes are a real treat. Ask to taste before you buy, and always haggle.

Take part in a local pastime: tea

The choyxona (teahouse) has been an institution in Uzbekistan for centuries, and is the perfect place to chat, sip a cup of tea, read the paper or have a nap in the shade. While Tashkent lacks the historical teahouses of other ancient Silk Road cities, you’re never short of somewhere to get a stellar brew. There is a bustling street-food section of Chorsu Bazaar, which is the ideal people-watching spot, perfect for a snack and a pot of tea while you watch the cooks preparing their traditional dishes.

Explore the Museum of Applied Arts

Tashkent isn’t short of museums and monuments, but the Museum of Applied Arts is worth singling out, less for its exhibits than for the gorgeous building that houses them. Dating from the early 1900s, it was once the home of imperial Russian diplomat Alexander Polovtsev, who had it grandly decorated in traditional Uzbek style, full of colour and intricate carvings. He was soon transferred elsewhere, so he never saw this vibrant building finished. His personal collection of handicrafts nonetheless makes up the bulk of the artefacts on show at the museum: carved wooden furniture, elaborate wall hangings, traditional instruments and ceramics.

See the oldest Quran in the world

The Khast-Imom complex is the old religious heart of Tashkent. It is home to the oldest Quran in the world – a colossal book on display at the Muyi Mubarak Library, allegedly stained with the blood of the Caliph Uthman, who was murdered while reading it in 656. It was acquired by Amir Timur in the 14th century and made its way back to Tashkent after a stint in St Petersburg. In fact, it may not really be the oldest Quran, as there is some doubt over when it was made and how it ended up in Tashkent, but hey, who’s going to let such details get in the way of a good story?

Take a ride on the metro

Anyone who has been to Moscow will know that the Soviets took their metro stations seriously, building glittering halls of marble and underground colonnades for city commuters. Tashkent has its own ‘palaces for the people’, and for the ludicrously cheap price of a metro ticket (1,200 som or about £0.11) you can take in the amazing variety of architectural designs of stations all over the city. Highlights include the futuristic Kosmonavtlar, built in 1984; Alisher Navoi, named after the 15th-century poet, with spectacular domed ceilings; and cotton-themed Paxtakor with its blue, white and yellow mosaics.

Track down beautiful murals all over town

Generally speaking, the architecture of downtown Tashkent is nothing out of the ordinary. An earthquake destroyed much of the old city in 1966, and the government took the opportunity to replace the old mahallas (neighbourhoods) with wide boulevards and multistorey apartment blocks. However, there is beauty to be found in unexpected places, and many of these apartment buildings are decorated with huge, colourful murals depicting such diverse subjects as astronaut Yuri Gagarin, construction workers and 11th-century scientist Avicenna. Some of the most impressive can be found in the Mirobod and Mirzo Ulug’bek districts.

Try the favourite local food: plov

You can’t go to Tashkent without trying plov. Uzbeks are extremely proud of their national dish, and will argue at length over which regional variation of the recipe is best. Supermarkets even sell it ready-made in tins (though this is not necessarily recommended). For the uninitiated, plov is a dish of rice, carrots and melt-in-the-mouth lamb, gently spiced with cumin, and sometimes with raisins or other dried fruit, onions and boiled quail eggs to top it all off. Tourist guides insist that you go to the Central Asian Plov Centre, which does boast the biggest rice cauldrons that you will probably ever see, but the plov itself is nothing special; better to pop in to any of the countless cafés that have a huge pan of the stuff bubbling away on the street for a lunchtime plate.

See more: Marvel at these stunning road trips in Asia

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The most unique architectures in Vietnam

Vietnam’s architecture is anything but ordinary. Thousand-year-old temples squat next to sterling skyscrapers. Modern apartments nest atop creamy French villas. The old and new, local and foreign mingle in an eclectic mix. This distinct blend is what creates unforgettable urban spaces and rewarding exploration in Vietnam. Whether you are already an architecture lover or just a casual admirer, this chronological primer will walk you through the best of Vietnam’s must-see architecture.

Tran Dynasty Temples

Nobility and governance came to Ha Noi during the time of the Tran Dynasty. Today many Tran Dynasty structures, temples and pagodas remain in the capital, adding to its rich architectural diversity. The Tran Dynasty is often considered a golden era for art, culture and science in Vietnam. Tran architects championed these ideas, and their work also reflects the decadance and development of this era.

The Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Ha Noi, where the Tran kings ruled, is an essential stop for history lovers. Look out for the massive flagstaff and ancient bulwarks they built expanding the original Ly structure. Slightly south you will find the Temple of Literature. Though this Confucian learning centre was initially built in 1070, it was rebuilt and enhanced during the Tran Dynasty. The temple has seen many additions and changes over the years, but its innovative carpentry, enchanting temples and numerous courtyards make it one of Ha Noi’s most-loved attractions.

Modern skyscrapers and bridges

Vietnam’s booming economy means a new era of urban growth has arrived. Enormous skyscrapers are in the works in major cities, serving spectacular views of the changing skyline. Standing at 461 metres tall, Landmark 81 is the tallest building in Vietnam, and can be seen throughout the city. Construction for this colossal building began in 2015 and ended in 2018. The Bitexco Financial Building is another emblematic element of the Ho Chi Minh skyline. In the progressive city of Da Nang, the iconic Dragon Bridge and Golden Hands Bridge are both favourite photo stops, and symbols of Vietnam’s relentless forward motion.

Colonial architecture

Whilst walking around Vietnam, you may have to stop when suddenly being confronted with a typically French building. Architecturally, the French left their mark throughout Vietnam, all of the big cities have a number of stately structures that date from colonial times and, in many cases, they carry on serving the same function as they did under the French. This kind of architecture was developed in parallel with the process of colonial exploitation of the colonialism.

Particular characteristics of geographical and climatic conditions are relatively different; as a result, the European-style architecture had to have certain changes in order to deal with Vietnam’s weather conditions. While many of the old French residences have crumbled badly, others have been renovated and given a new lease on life as upper crust hotels full of French trimmings or restaurants.

Nguyen Dynasty

Hue city became the capital under Nguyen Dynasty so the development in the North was slowed down. In Thang Long, Khue Van Cac (Constellation of Literature pavilion), Ngoc Son temple and some structures were built. In contrast, the project in Hue were developed, especially, garden - house complex. Nowadays, we still see this distinctive design through the remained citadels, palaces, tomb, and gardened houses in Hue that is quite different from the tube type of houses in Ha Noi.

Relics of early imperial rulers

During the 10th century Vietnam was divided into 12 feuding kingdoms ruled by fearsome generals. One overthrew the rest, establishing the first united and imperial kingdom of Vietnam, Dai Co Viet. His capital was Hoa Lu, located in present-day Ninh Binh. This secluded region was strategically chosen for its steep karsts and winding rivers, which formed natural barriers from Chinese invaders. Over the course of 42 years the people of Hoa Lu saw three different dynasties and six kings, resulting in a mix of temples, pagodas and fortifications in Ninh Binh.

Vietnam’s capital was later moved to Ha Noi, however the Hoa Lu Citadel, the former seat of power, is still a must-see stop for its astonishing craftsmanship and calm atmosphere. For a peek at later architectural styles, visit Hang Mua for typical examples of Tran dynastic details and the equally picturesque Bich Dong Pagoda. Here you will find dramatic stone steps cut into limestone karsts, and pagodas tucked inside ancient rock faces.

See more: The most beautiful destinations in Northwest Vietnam

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Top beautiful natural sights in Sri Lanka

The teardrop island of Sri Lanka is full of natural wonders. From huge rocks in the middle of forests, to herds of wild elephants and rolling hills, Sri Lanka has plenty to offer the nature lover. You will find a wide range of ecosystems here, too. There are coastal beaches, dry forests and rainforests. There are foggy hills and mountain ranges. There are lakes big and small, and also tons of tea plantations. Here is a look at some of the natural sights of Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya

A visit to this place will show you a 1600 years old Sigiriya Fortress which was built by King Kasyapa. This massive compound is protected by two moats and three ramparts. It is once known to be the private residence of King Kasyapa. It is 165 km from Sri Lanka. If you are interested in ancient places, this is one of the best tourist places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Adams Peak

The next destination is one of the most mesmerizing Sri Lanka tourist places and is known as Adam’s peak. Adam’s peak is amongst the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. Climb the slopes at night to watch a breathtaking sunrise at dawn that would be hard to forget.

A biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is difficult to match the spectacular views from Adams Peaks in the whole of Sri Lanka. The name itself of this place is unique and so is the destination. This place is situated in middle Sri Lanka and that one thing for which it is known is called Sri Pada. Sri Pada is basically considered as the footprints of Buddha.

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is the place to go to see big cats in Sri Lanka. The park is home to the highest concentration of leopards in the world, and it is also an important sanctuary for Sri Lankan elephants and aquatic birds. Monkeys, crocodiles, and other critters run around the park’s grassy plains and forest areas. The park is located on the southeast coast of the island.

World's End Nuwara Eliya

One of the most jaw-dropping experience you can ever have in Sri Lanka is the World’s End on the Horton Plains. Enjoy a tuk-tuk ride to the Horton plains from Nuwara Eliya.

You can see animals such as leopards and deer. Experience the amazing flora and fauna which will be an amazing experience.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

If there is one thing in abundance in Sri lanka, it is flora-fauna. The home of lions, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The reason why you should visit this place is that you will find a variety of endemic birds and mammals.

Sinharaja is also the last viable area of tropical rainforests in Sri Lanka and hence an important biodiversity hotspot. No wonder it has been recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site. It is also bordered by the rivers on both sides.

Bentota

An extraordinary experience amidst an ordinary setup lies 65 kilometres from Colombo and is named Bentota beach. Soak yourself in the ordinary golden sand while enjoying the marvellous sound of the mighty Indian Ocean crashing against the shores.

The mesmerizing view of the sea will leave you speechless. If you are planning to break the monotony of the routine just try your hands at adventure sports found alongside the palm trees. You should not miss to visit this Sri Lanka tourist place as it is quite popular amongst tourists.

Mirissa

Lie back in a hammock under the sun or float in the clear, turquoise water of this small, beachside village. Beautiful hideaway beaches and a thriving nightlife scene make Mirissa a hot spot for tourists, but because tourism did not take off until the mid-1990s, the area is still quite down to earth. Mirissa is also world renowned for its fantastic areas for whale and dolphin watching.

See more: Have a nice weekend in Sri Lanka

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