5 cold places to head to in Southeast Asia

8 January 2024

Enjoy sweater weather all day every day in these cities around the region!

1. Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam
The north-western Vietnamese city is said to be one of the best places to witness the first flurries of snow. In fact, there were reports of snowfall in the city, located at 1,600m above sea level, in January 2016.

Fly to Noi Bai International Airport

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Between the months of December to February, temperatures dip to an average of about 20 to 21 degrees celscius in the largest city of North Thailand. There, don’t miss out on admiring the sakura trees at the Doi Inthanon National Park, experiencing a hot air balloon ride amidst rustic villages and rice fields, night markets, wats (or temples), and the night safari.

Fly to Chiang Mai International Airport

3. Chiang Rai, Thailand
Located 180km north of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai’s climate is similar to Chiang Mai’s during the “winter months”. Best known for its mythic-looking Wat Rong Khun (or White Temple), the city offers a variety of stunning sites including the Tad Kwan Village Park & Waterfall, Boon Rawd Farm, Sop Ruak (the centre of the Golden Triangle, the magnificent Clock Tower, eco tours, and more.

Fly to Chiang Rai International Airport

4. Sagada, Philippines
The quaint, small town, perched at around 1,524 metres (5000 feet) above sea level, is known for its unique culture, cool climate, and views of limestone mountains and forested valleys. Some of the more popular tourist spots include the Hanging Coffins, Sumaguing Cave, Bomod-Ok (Big) Falls, Kiltepan, and Echo Valley.

Fly to Cauayan Airport

5. Cameron Highlands
Get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and delve into the rustic, tranquil nature at the Highlands. There, you’ll find tea plantations, strawberry farms, temples, a butterfly garden, plus colonial-like houses that’ll take you back to the good old days.

Fly to Ipoh Airport