Digital travel platform Agoda has announced its list of top rural destinations in Asia, offering travelers the chance to explore beyond bustling city hotspots. This year, Vietnam’s Sapa placed sixth in the Asia-wide ranking, underscoring its international appeal for travelers.
Sapa, a mountainous destination famous for its terraced rice fields and local village, attracts visitors with stunning landscapes, the unique culture, and breathtaking views of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range from Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest peak known as “Indochina roof’’. Agoda data shows that searches to the hilltop retreat increased 21%, highlighting its growing appeal.
Rural destinations in Vietnam, particularly the highland town of Sapa, are gaining popularity among travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and natural beauty. Apart from the rainy months of June to August, Sapa presents a striking natural landscape that evolves with the seasons. In spring, plum and peach blossoms brighten the hillsides, while summer brings lush green rice shoots shimmering in the morning mist. Autumn is the most spectacular season with golden terraced fields across the valleys. Sometimes in winter, Sapa is veiled in clouds and dusted with snow – a rare sight in tropical climate. The vibrant local highland markets remain a highlight that draws both domestic and international visitors. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, Sapa stands as one of Asia’s most distinctive mountain destinations.
Fansipan. Source: Unsplash – Vivu Vietnam
Early morning highland markets. Source: Internet
Agoda’s data, which ranks destinations across eight markets in Asia with a population under 50,000 based on accommodation searches made on Agoda between 15 February to 15 August 2025, also revealed that Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands, Thailand’s Khao Yai, and Indonesia’s Puncak took the top three spots. Fujikawaguchiko (Japan), Kenting (Taiwan), Sapa (Vietnam), Munnar (India), and Pyeongchang-gun (South Korea) earned a spot as the top eight rural destinations in Asia.
The ethereal beauty of Sapa town floating in the mist. Source: Internet
Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director at Agoda, shared: “Vietnam’s representation in the Asia list through Sapa reflects how the country’s diverse landscapes and heritage continue to captivate travelers. From terraced rice fields and mountain treks to rich cultural traditions, visitors are showing stronger appetite for authentic and immersive experiences away from big-city hubs”.
Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and start planning the next small-town adventure. Visit Agoda.com for more information.
