Tired of Tourist Traps? Here Are 2025’s Must-Visit Hidden Destinations

A recent travel trends report from Skyscanner reveals a shift among Asia-Pacific (APAC) travellers towards lesser-known destinations, with many looking to avoid crowds in favour of unique experiences.

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What we know about the top 2025 hidden destinations for APAC travellers

Based on search data collected from January to June 2024, Skyscanner’s Horizons report highlights the top 10 trending spots for 2025 among APAC travellers, and they’re not the typical tourist hubs. Leading the list is Dayong, China, which saw a remarkable 852% year-on-year increase in interest, driven largely by its cinematic landscapes featured in the Avatar movies. Dayong is the gateway to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, home to stunning sites like Tianzi Mountain and Gold Whip Stream.

Second in popularity is Shillong, India, a hill station known as the “Scotland of the East.” It offers visitors rolling green hills, misty mountains, and enchanting waterfalls. Shillong saw an 821% rise in searches, confirming the appeal of this quiet northeast Indian retreat. Other popular under-the-radar spots include Sandakan in Malaysia, which provides access to the Orangutan Rehabilitation Center and Kinabatangan River's incredible wildlife; Saga and Yonago in Japan, both offering rich Japanese cultural experiences away from the bustling streets of Tokyo or Osaka.

APAC travellers aren’t turning away from major cities entirely, though. In a separate list of the top 10 most-searched destinations overall, big-name cities still reign, including Seoul, Tokyo, Bangkok, Osaka, and Taipei. These bustling urban centres remain favourites for their vibrant atmospheres, shopping, sightseeing, and food scenes, yet travellers are now better informed about the crowds and are seeking a balance between the iconic and the offbeat.

For travellers wanting a more unconventional trip, the Horizons report encourages a closer look at destinations like Shimla, India, another beautiful hill station; Almaty, Kazakhstan, known for its stunning mountain views; and Baku, Azerbaijan, where East meets West in fascinating ways. Rounding out the list are Siem Reap in Cambodia, celebrated for its ancient temples, and Sihanoukville, also in Cambodia, known for its coastal beauty.

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With a broader interest in authentic experiences and cultural immersion, APAC travelers have a world of lesser-known destinations to explore in 2025. The complete list of trending destinations includes Dayong, Shillong, Sandakan, Shimla, Saga, Almaty, Yonago, Siem Reap, Baku, and Sihanoukville—each offering a unique experience beyond the well-trodden tourist trail.

Featured image credit: bjdlzx via Canva Pro