Epic Road Trip through Southeast Asia: Southeast Asia is a region of stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and delicious cuisine. Traveling through this part of the world can be an unforgettable adventure, and doing it overland without taking a flight adds another level of excitement and challenge.
In this itinerary, we’ll explore Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Myanmar again, all while staying on the ground.
From bustling cities to tranquil beaches, from historic temples to stunning natural wonders, this journey covers it all. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, this trip will surely leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, let’s pack our bags and hit the road!
Traveling through 10 Southeast Asian countries without taking a flight can be an epic journey that requires a lot of planning and preparation. Here’s an itinerary that covers Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Myanmar in a single trip, and then returns to India:
Epic Road Trip through Southeast Asia
New Delhi to Myanmar via Train and Road and Places to Visit in Myanmar (3 Days in India and 7 Days in Myanmar)
New Delhi to Myanmar via train and road, including places to visit in Myanmar and ending the trip at Huay Xai:
Day 1-3: New Delhi to Imphal
Take a train from New Delhi to Dimapur and then hire a private car or take a local bus to Imphal, the capital city of Manipur. Visit the Kangla Fort, the Loktak Lake, and the INA Memorial Complex.
Day 4: Imphal to Moreh to Myanmar Border to Tamu to Mandalay
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Moreh, the Indian town bordering Myanmar. Cross the India-Myanmar border at Tamu and take a local bus to Mandalay, the cultural capital of Myanmar. Visit the Mandalay Palace, the Mahamuni Buddha Temple, and the famous U Bein Bridge.
Day 5: Mandalay to Bagan
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Bagan, an ancient city known for its thousands of Buddhist temples and pagodas. Spend the day exploring the temples, watching the sunrise and sunset, and enjoying the local food and culture.
Day 6: Bagan to Inle Lake
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Inle Lake, a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by mountains and traditional villages. Take a boat ride on the lake, visit the floating gardens and villages, and experience the local Shan culture.
Day 7: Inle Lake to Yangon
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Yangon, the largest city in Myanmar and the former capital. Visit the famous Shwedagon Pagoda, explore the colonial architecture, and sample the delicious street food.
Day 8: Yangon to Kyaiktiyo Pagoda
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, a sacred site with a golden boulder perched precariously on a cliff. Stay overnight at one of the nearby hotels and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Day 9: Kyaiktiyo Pagoda to Hpa-An
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Hpa-An, a charming town nestled between karst mountains and rice paddies. Visit the Kyauk Kalat Pagoda, the Kawgun Cave, and the Lumbini Gardens.
Day 10: Hpa-An to Myawaddy to Mae Sot to Huay Xai
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Myawaddy, the Myanmar town bordering Thailand. Cross the border and take a local bus or hire a private car to Mae Sot, a town in Thailand.
This itinerary covers some of the top destinations in Myanmar and offers a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and history. However, road travel in Myanmar can be challenging, and it’s important to research and plan in advance, obtain necessary visas and travel permits, and ensure your safety and health while on the road.
Myanmar to Thailand via Road and Places to visit in Thailand (8 Days in Thailand)
Day 11: Mae Sot to Sukhothai
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples and ruins. Spend the day exploring the Sukhothai Historical Park, which includes the ruins of over 20 temples.
Day 12: Sukhothai to Bangkok
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand. Visit the famous Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). Explore the vibrant street food scene and night markets of Bangkok.
Day 13: Bangkok
Spend a full day exploring Bangkok. Visit the iconic Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the Chatuchak Weekend Market, and the trendy neighborhood of Thonglor. Take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and explore the canals of the city.
Day 14: Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Take a local bus or fly to Chiang Mai, a city in northern Thailand known for its rich history, temples, and natural beauty. Visit the famous Doi Suthep Temple, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, and the Elephant Nature Park.
Day 15: Chiang Mai to Pai
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Pai, a charming small town in northern Thailand known for its laid-back vibe and scenic beauty. Visit the Pai Canyon, the hot springs, and the famous Pai Night Market.
Day 16: Pai to Mae Hong Son
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Mae Hong Son, a picturesque town nestled in the mountains near the Myanmar border. Visit the Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu Temple, the Fish Cave, and the Shan Market.
Day 17: Mae Hong Son to Chiang Rai
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Chiang Rai, a city in northern Thailand known for its beautiful temples and cultural heritage. Visit the White Temple, the Blue Temple, and the Black House, and explore the vibrant night market.
Day 18: Chiang Rai to Laos-Thailand border
Take a local bus or hire a private car to the Laos-Thailand border at Chiang Khong/Huay Xai. From there, you can cross into Laos and continue your travels in Southeast Asia.
This itinerary covers some of the top destinations in Thailand and offers a glimpse into the country’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty, as well as some of its top cities and attractions. However, road travel in Thailand can be challenging, and it’s important to research and plan in advance, obtain necessary visas and travel permits, and ensure your safety and health while on the road.
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Thailand to Laos via Road – Places to visit in Laos (7 Days in Laos)
Day 19: Laos-Thailand border to Luang Prabang
Cross the Laos-Thailand border at Chiang Khong/Huay Xai and take a slow boat down the Mekong River to the beautiful city of Luang Prabang. Visit the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall, the Royal Palace Museum, and the night market.
Day 20: Luang Prabang
Spend a full day exploring Luang Prabang. Wake up early to witness the daily alms giving ceremony, visit the beautiful temples of Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, and climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views of the city.
Day 21: Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Vang Vieng, a small town known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Go tubing or kayaking down the Nam Song River, explore the caves and blue lagoons, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the town.
Day 22: Vang Vieng to Vientiane
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. Visit the famous Patuxai Victory Monument, the That Luang Stupa, and the Buddha Park, and enjoy the local cuisine and street food.
Day 23: Vientiane to Thakhek
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Thakhek, a small town on the banks of the Mekong River known for its stunning limestone cliffs and caves. Visit the famous Konglor Cave, the Thakhek Loop, and the beautiful Tham Nang Aen Cave.
Day 24: Thakhek to Savannakhet
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Savannakhet, a charming town with a rich history and culture. Visit the beautiful Wat Xayaphoum Temple, the Dinosaur Museum, and the colonial-era buildings in the town center.
Day 25: Savannakhet to Laos-Cambodia border
Take a local bus or hire a private car to the Laos-Cambodia border at Veun Kham/Dong Kralor. From there, you can cross into Cambodia and continue your travels in Southeast Asia.
This itinerary covers some of the top destinations in Laos and offers a glimpse into the country’s natural beauty, culture, and history. However, road travel in Laos can be challenging, and it’s important to research and plan in advance, obtain necessary visas and travel permits, and ensure your safety and health while on the road.
Laos to Cambodia via Road – Places to visit in Cambodia (6 Days in Cambodia)
Day 26: Laos-Cambodia border to Siem Reap
Cross the Laos-Cambodia border at Veun Kham/Dong Kralor and take a bus to Siem Reap, the gateway to the world-famous Angkor Wat temples. Spend the rest of the day exploring the town and enjoying the local cuisine.
Day 27: Siem Reap
Spend a full day exploring the Angkor Wat temples, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Marvel at the intricate carvings and architecture of the temples, including Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Thom.
Day 28: Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. Visit the historic Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and take a sunset boat cruise on the Mekong River.
Day 29: Phnom Penh to Kampot
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Kampot, a charming town known for its scenic riverside setting and pepper plantations. Visit the famous Bokor Hill Station, the Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, and the pepper farms.
Day 30: Kampot to Kep
Take a local bus or hire a private car to Kep, a laid-back coastal town known for its seafood and relaxing beaches. Visit the Kep National Park, the Crab Market, and the Rabbit Island, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Day 31: Kep to Cambodia-Vietnam border
Take a local bus or hire a private car to the Cambodia-Vietnam border at Ha Tien/Xa Xia. From there, you can cross into Vietnam and continue your travels in Southeast Asia.
This itinerary covers some of the top destinations in Cambodia and offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. However, road travel in Cambodia can be challenging, and it’s important to research and plan in advance, obtain necessary visas and travel permits, and ensure your safety and health while on the road.
Cambodia to Vietnam via Road – Places to visit in Vietnam (9 Days in Vietnam)
Day 32: Vietnam-Cambodia border to Ho Chi Minh City
Cross the Cambodia-Vietnam border at Ha Tien/Xa Xia and take a bus to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling and vibrant metropolis formerly known as Saigon. Visit the War Remnants Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace, and the Ben Thanh Market.
Day 33: Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat
Take a bus to Da Lat, a romantic and picturesque hill town famous for its cool climate, waterfalls, and flower gardens. Visit the Xuan Huong Lake, the Prenn Waterfall, the Crazy House, and the Dalat Flower Park.
Day 34: Da Lat to Nha Trang
Take a bus to Nha Trang, a coastal resort town known for its pristine beaches, islands, and marine activities. Visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers, the Long Son Pagoda, the Vinpearl Amusement Park, and the Hon Mun Island.
Day 35: Nha Trang to Hoi An
Take a bus to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient town, traditional architecture, and lantern festival. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture, the An Bang Beach, and the Tra Que Vegetable Village.
Day 36: Hoi An to Hue
Take a bus to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam known for its citadel, royal tombs, and temples. Visit the Imperial City, the Thien Mu Pagoda, the Tomb of Tu Duc, and the Perfume River.
Day 37: Hue to Hanoi
Take an overnight train from Hue to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam known for its French colonial architecture, museums, and street food. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Old Quarter.
Day 38: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
Take a bus or hire a private car to Ha Long Bay, a stunning natural wonder of limestone islands, caves, and emerald waters. Take a boat tour to explore the bay and visit the Sung Sot Cave, the Ti Top Island, and the Cua Van Floating Village.
Day 39: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi
Return to Hanoi and spend the rest of the day exploring the city or shopping for souvenirs.
Day 40: Hanoi to Manila
Take a bus or hire a private car to Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport and fly to Manila, the capital city of the Philippines.
This itinerary covers some of the top destinations in Vietnam and offers a diverse and exciting range of experiences, from ancient history and culture
Vietnam to Philippines via Road – Places to visit in Philippines (12 Days in Philippines)
Day 40: Manila
Explore the historic walled city of Intramuros. Visit the National Museum of the Philippines. Check out the vibrant street art scene in Bonifacio Global City
Day 41: Tagaytay
Enjoy the scenic views of Taal Volcano and Lake from Tagaytay Ridge. Visit the Puzzle Mansion, home to the largest collection of jigsaw puzzles in the world
Day 42: Batangas
Go on a day trip to the nearby beach town of Laiya. Visit the Taal Heritage Town to see the well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture
Day 43: Puerto Princesa
Take an underground river tour at the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Relax on the beaches of Sabang
Day 44: El Nido
Go island hopping around the Bacuit Archipelago. Visit the Nacpan Beach and Twin Beaches
Day 45: Coron
Snorkel or dive in the clear waters of Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon. Explore the WWII shipwrecks around Coron Bay
Day 46: Cebu
Visit the historic Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño in Cebu City. Go island hopping in Mactan Island
Day 47: Bohol
Visit the famous Chocolate Hills in Carmen. See the cute tarsiers at the Tarsier Conservation Area. Visit the historic Baclayon Church and Museum
Day 48: Siargao
Surf the famous waves of Cloud 9. Explore the rock pools and natural pools of Magpupungko Beach
Day 49: Davao
Visit the Philippine Eagle Center to see the endangered Philippine Eagle. Go on a fruit tour at the Malagos Garden Resort
Day 50: General Santos
Visit the T’boli Settlement and Lake Sebu to learn about the indigenous T’boli people. Explore the Sarangani Bay and the Maasim River
Day 51: Makassar, Indonesia (by ferry)
Visit the Fort Rotterdam, a historic Dutch fort. Explore the bustling Losari Beach
Note: The ferry ride from General Santos to Makassar may take around 1-2 days, depending on the schedule and route of the ferry. Please check with the local ferry companies for more information and make sure to secure proper travel documents for entry to Indonesia.
Philippines to Indonesia and Brunei via Road – Places to visit in Indonesia (14 Days in Indonesia)
Day 61: Makassar
Explore the Fort Rotterdam, a historical fort built by the Dutch. Visit the Trans Studio Makassar, an indoor theme park. Visit the Losari Beach and enjoy the sunset
Day 62: Tana Toraja
Visit the traditional villages of Tana Toraja and see the unique architecture and burial customs. Visit the Londa burial caves and see the hanging coffins. Go on a trek to see the stunning rice terraces and countryside scenery
Day 63: Bunaken Island
Take a boat ride to Bunaken Island and go snorkeling or diving in the crystal clear waters. Visit the Bunaken National Park and see the diverse marine life
Day 64: Lake Toba
Visit the stunning Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world. Visit the traditional Batak villages and learn about the local culture. Go on a boat ride to see the Samosir Island and the Sipiso-piso Waterfall
Day 65: Bukit Lawang
Go on a trek in the Gunung Leuser National Park and see the endangered orangutans. Visit the Bukit Lawang orangutan rehabilitation center. Go on a rafting trip in the nearby river
Day 66: Medan
Visit the Maimun Palace, a historical palace built by the Dutch. Visit the Great Mosque of Medan, the largest mosque in North Sumatra. Explore the Tjong A Fie Mansion, a historic Chinese mansion
Day 67: Pekanbaru
Visit the An-Nur Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Riau province. Explore the Taman Wisata Alam Mayang Mangurai park and see the local flora and fauna. Visit the Riau Cultural Park and see the traditional Riau architecture and culture
Day 68: Pontianak
Visit the Equator Monument and cross the equator line. Explore the Kapuas River and take a boat ride to see the local scenery. Visit the Kadriah Palace, a historical palace built by the Sultan of Pontianak
Day 69-71: Bali
Explore the beaches of Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak. Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest and see the macaques in their natural habitat. Visit the Pura Tanah Lot Temple and enjoy the sunset
Day 72-74: Jakarta
Visit the National Monument and learn about the history of Indonesia. Explore the old town of Jakarta, known as Kota Tua. Visit the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia
Note: Some of the destinations listed may require flights, depending on your preferred mode of transportation. Please check with local travel agencies or transportation companies for more information on how to get to these destinations without flights. Also, please make sure to secure proper travel documents for entry to Brunei.
Indonesia to Brunei – Places to visit in Brunei (4 Days in Brunei)
Day 75-78: Brunei
Visit Kampong Ayer, a stilt village located on the Brunei River. Visit the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in Southeast Asia. Explore the Royal Regalia Museum, which showcases the Sultan of Brunei’s collection of gifts and awards. Visit the Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s largest residential palace
Brunei to Singapore via Road – Places to visit in Singapore (3 Days in Singapore)
Day 79-81: Singapore
Visit the Merlion Park, home to the iconic Merlion statue, which symbolizes Singapore’s origins as a fishing village. Explore the National Museum of Singapore, which showcases the country’s history, culture, and achievements. Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. Shop and dine at Orchard Road, a popular shopping district with malls, department stores, and restaurants
Singapore to Malaysia via Road – Places to visit in Malaysia (6 Days in Malaysia)
Day 82-84: Malacca, Malaysia
Visit the historic city center of Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history and cultural diversity. Explore the Jonker Street Night Market, a vibrant night market with food, souvenirs, and live performances. Visit the A Famosa Fort, a 16th-century Portuguese fortress with a history of battles and conquests
Visit the Stadthuys, a Dutch colonial building that now houses the History and Ethnography Museum
Day 85-87: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Visit the Petronas Twin Towers, the world’s tallest twin towers with stunning views of the city skyline. Explore the Batu Caves, a series of limestone caves and Hindu temples. Visit the Central Market, a cultural hub with local handicrafts, souvenirs, and food stalls. Explore the Chinatown district, with colorful buildings, street markets, and delicious food
Malaysia to India
Day 88: Departure
Depart from Kuala Lumpur and fly back to New Delhi or you can follow Myanmar to Delhi via Road too.
This concludes your epic road trip through Southeast Asia, followed by a flight from Malaysia back to India. We hope you had an amazing time exploring the diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities of this fascinating region!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this epic road trip from New Delhi to Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and back to Malaysia was an incredible journey through Southeast Asia. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the stunning beaches of Bali, the trip covered a vast range of landscapes, cultures, and experiences.
Throughout the trip, you visited iconic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant cities, and stunning natural attractions. You explored the local cuisine, learned about the history and culture of each country, and met friendly locals along the way.
This journey was truly an adventure of a lifetime, showcasing the best of Southeast Asia and providing unforgettable memories to last a lifetime.