10 Best Places for Solo Female Travel in Asia in 2024

Solo female travel is becoming increasingly popular due to its flexibility, independence, and convenience appeal. It's also an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth, as navigating unfamiliar territories alone can be incredibly rewarding. When traveling, every day becomes your own, when you travel alone, every decision is yours, a feeling of freedom.

12Go has prepared a selection of the best destinations explicitly tailored for solo female travelers. Whether you're a first-time solo or experienced traveler, we are here to help you with your dream destination.

We looked at all the trips women took over the last six months and made sure we covered the best destinations in each country. This article can become a useful resource for every woman planning an independent trip to Asia.

1st Place - Solo Female Travel To Thailand

Thailand is an incredible destination for solo female travelers. This is one of the easiest countries to get around. Thailand has everything you need for a perfect holiday: pristine beaches, jungles, temples, parties, modern art, Thai cuisine, shopping, excursions and much more. Among 12Go female travelers, Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Chiang Rai were the top three preferred destinations.

1. Start your trip from Bangkok since it is a good place as a transit point; with its temples, museums, and spas, you can quickly get into the Thai culture. You can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai using a train with majestic views through the jungles of Thailand or by bus or flight. The prices start at 7 US dollars. The train trip takes around 10 hours; if you lack time, you can use a flight which takes only 2 hours.

2. Chiang Mai is the number one destination for female solo travelers, and here is why : the place is located in Northern Thailand and offers a unique experience you will not find anywhere else. We recommend spending a minimum of 2-3 days in Chiang Mai and the surrounding area. For example, you can visit Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Zoo Chiang Mai, Night Bazaar, and San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. If possible, visit Doi Inthanon National Park, with its waterfalls and beautiful nature. You can also see elephant care centers in Chiang Mai. It's fun and helps nature.

3. Chiang Rai is another top destination in Thailand, located near Chiang Mai. You can get there from Chiang Mai in 3 hours. If booked in advance, the prices start from 8 US dollars. Building your itinerary and visiting Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai on one trip is best. If you're planning a trip to Northern Thailand, consider visiting Pai, a 4-hour drive from Chiang Mai and ranked 4th in our list of other destinations in Thailand.

Notably, destinations where the sea is present, such as Pattaya, Phuket, and Krabi, entered the top 10 in Thailand but did not take first place.

2nd Place - Solo Female Travel To Сambodia

Cambodia can become your favorite destination, with its stunning temples, welcoming atmosphere and exciting history. Beyond the temples, Cambodia offers beautiful landscapes with rice paddies, palm trees, and traditional wooden stilt houses. Cambodian people are friendly and happy to help, which makes it really easy and fun to explore the country on your own.

You can start your trip in Phnom Penh, the top choice for women traveling in Cambodia. You can spend some time exploring the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda and enjoy a sunset cruise along the Mekong River. The next few days, visit the Killing Fields and the National Museum to learn more about Cambodia's culture.

Next, you can travel to Sihanoukville and settle into your beachfront accommodation. Being the second top spot in Cambodia, you can experience traditional Cambodian charm alongside modern amenities and diverse cuisines from around the world. The trip from Phnom Penh takes around 4 hours by bus. Explore the pristine beaches of Otres or Serendipity, or take a boat trip to islands like Koh Rong. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy fresh seafood.

Siem Reap is by far the most popular place to visit in Cambodia, but female travelers using 12Go, choose it as a 3d destination in Cambodia.
If you want to travel to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh, choose a bus, which will take a 5-hour drive.

Despite being a popular tourist destination in Cambodia, Siem Reap retains a relaxed atmosphere with friendly locals.

There is no trip to Siem Reap without visiting Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Explore the ancient temples of Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm. Take a cycling tour through rural villages surrounding Siem Reap.

If you have 3 to 4 days in Siem Reap, the city also serves as a gateway to rural Cambodia, with plenty of ecotourism options for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. There are lesser-known temples like Banteay Srei and Preah Khan. Plan to watch the sunrise in the morning and walk around the temples, slowly walking around a small circle. On the second day - Phnom Kulen and Banteay Srei, and on the third - Prya Vihear and Koh Ker (if you try, you can even make it to Beng Melia).

3rd Place - Solo Female Travel To Indonesia

Indonesia has the best landscapes, islands, and beaches that attract female travelers from all over the world. Spa treatments, coffee and cocktails, yoga, and meditation centers make it ideal for women traveling alone.

Indonesia has a lot to explore and places that are just as stunning without being over-touristic as Bali. For example, it is interesting that the Gili Islands, which took first place in the list of top destinations for women in Indonesia, have become more popular than Bali.

Bali took second place since it’s a great transportation option and starting point. Here you can relax on the beach, swim, or surf. Try yoga, cooking, or join a hike to Mount Batur, and visit Lempyang Temple. Don't forget to hang out with monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest! Explore rice terraces or visit temples like Ulun Danu Beratan or Tanah Lot. Discover jungle walks and waterfalls. Bali offers endless solo adventures!

If you want your solo trip to be filled with good food, sunset drinks, and green sea turtles, choose the Gili Islands. Book a snorkeling tour and visit the underwater statues of Gili Meno, rent a bike, and cycle around the island with gorgeous ocean views.
Consider visiting the Trawangan Night Market, which has local vendors selling tons of tasty dishes.

To quickly get from Bali to Gili Islands, use the ferry. The trip takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the price starts from 12 US dollars.

For a peaceful getaway, consider Sanur, which takes the third place. Its serene beaches offer solitude away from the crowds. Enjoy affordable accommodations and easy access to nearby islands like Nusa Penida and the Gili islands from Sanur's main port.

Other notable destinations in Indonesia include Lombok, Nusa Penida, and Nusa Lembongan.

4th Place - Solo Female Travel To Philippines

If you are a beach lover looking for a fun destination, the Philippines is the right option for you. The Philippines' landscape consists of turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, stunning lagoons ideal for snorkeling, and much more.

Cebu City is the first place where solo women travelers visit in the entire country. What is interesting about Cebu? Here, you can find historic landmarks such as Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Take a day trip to the nearby islands of Mactan or Olango for snorkeling and swimming. If there is additional trip time, you can visit Kawasan Falls in Badian for a refreshing dip in turquoise waters.

The second place preferred by female travelers in the Philippines is Bohol. Choose a ferry if you want to travel between Cebu and Bohol. Ferries operate daily from multiple ports in Cebu to several ports in Bohol. The ferry journey takes around 2 hours. You can find tickets that cost as little as $8.

Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary are must-visit. Take a countryside tour to visit historical sites like the Blood Compact Shrine and Baclayon Church. Cruise along the Loboc River on a traditional floating restaurant while enjoying a buffet lunch. Relax on the white sand beaches of Panglao Island and snorkel among colorful coral reefs. Unbelievable experience.

3rd place is Manila. If you're in another major city in the Philippines or an island destination, flying to Manila is often the fastest and most convenient option. Several airlines operate domestic flights to Manila from airports across the country. Overland travel to Manila is possible from certain parts of Luzon, the main island of the Philippines. Provincial bus services operate routes to Manila from cities and towns in Luzon, including destinations such as Baguio, Bataan, and Pampanga. Manila, the capital of the Philippines, offers incredible sights to explore. Don't miss the enchanting Intramuros, the historic Spanish quarter of Manila. Afterward, wander through Rizal Park, a vast green area dedicated to the national hero, Jose Rizal. For a deeper dive into the country's cultural, artistic, and ecological treasures, visit the National Museum Complex located right next to the park.

5th Place - Solo Female Travel To Laos

Laos is generally considered a safe destination for solo female travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming attitude towards visitors. Compared to the hustle of most Southeast Asian countries, Laos is more relaxed place in whole Asia. Although the tourism infrastructure in Laos is not as developed, making travel difficult, it is still an excellent destination for solo travel. The most popular destinations among female travelers are Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Pakse.

1. Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, takes the top spot among destinations for women traveling solo, offering a perfect mix of colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and local markets.
   There are peaceful spots like hidden temples and quiet cafes that solo female travelers might enjoy exploring away from the busy streets. You can see a mix of old French-style buildings and beautiful Buddhist temples. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Patuxai Victory Monument and Pha That Luang. Lose yourself in temples like Wat Sisaket and Wat Si Muang, where ancient traditions and modern life mix together smoothly. If you have extra time, take a day trip to Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) just outside Vientiane.

2. Travel to Vang Vieng, the second favored place in Laos for women traveling solo. Take a bus or private transfer and enjoy scenic views of limestone karst formations and rural landscapes of Laos. Do you like kayaking? Try famous adventure along the Nam Song River, passing by stunning limestone cliffs. Explore the Tham Phu Kham Cave and Blue Lagoon, and hike to the Pha Ngeun Viewpoint for panoramic views of the Vang Vieng countryside.

3. Plan your trip to Pakse, the capital of Champasak Province, by bus or plane from Vientiane or Vang Vieng. Take a day trip to the scenic Bolaven Plateau, known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and ethnic villages. Visit Tad Fane and Tad Yuang waterfalls for breathtaking views and a refreshing dip in the natural pools.

6th Place - Solo Female Travel To Vietnam

Vietnam is a fascinating country that is constantly developing. There is now very rapid growth in everything: tourism, economy, production, and so on. Women should travel to Vietnam to experience unique cultural treasures like witnessing water puppetry, a centuries-old form of entertainment. The locals are friendly and will want to chat and practice their English with you.

Ho Chi Minh City is the top place for women who travel. Ho Chi Minh City is considered one of the safest cities in Southeast Asia for solo female travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise for food lovers. Try street food, sampling local dishes like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, relax along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, explore the vibrant markets of Cho Lon, and visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda.

The second-best place in Vietnam goes to Hanoi. If you're traveling within Vietnam, you can take a train from the big cities in Vietnam to Hanoi. Train travel in Vietnam is a scenic and convenient option for long-distance travel. Another option for traveling to Hanoi is by bus. There are both sleeper buses and daytime buses available.

Hanoi is undoubtedly an excellent option for women. Countless street food stalls and cafes tempt this city. While in Hanoi, visit these top attractions: the Old Quarter, Train Street, Water Puppet Theatre, the French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Hoa Lo Prison.

3rd place Da Nang. Da Nang is home to some of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches, including My Khe Beach and Non-Nuoc Beach. With soft golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque surroundings, these beaches provide the perfect setting for relaxation.

Don't forget to visit the Marble Mountains, a group of five limestone hills with caves, pagodas, and panoramic coastal views. Explore the charming Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a day trip to Bana Hills to stroll across the famous Golden Bridge and explore the French-style gardens and amusement parks.

7th Place - Solo Female Travel To Sri Lanka

A solo trip to Sri Lanka can offer a different experience than in other Asian countries. But it's an incredible destination for women traveling alone, thanks to its safety, cultural richness, and natural beauty.

People here are a bit conservative! Therefore, it will be helpful to avoid wearing shorts, bikinis, and revealing clothing while walking in small towns, especially religious places.

Kandy is at the top of Sri Lanka. It is known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Kandy offers a rich combination of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, including UNESCO-listed sites and picturesque landscapes. Kandy is the second largest city in Sri Lanka, located in the country's center, approximately three hours' drive northwest of Colombo.

Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walk through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Or visit the Royal Palace of Kandy and the adjacent Royal Botanical Gardens to learn about the city's royal heritage.

Spend at least two days in Kandy and explore Colombo's culture. Visit the National Museum of Colombo and the Gallery Café, which showcase Sri Lankan art, history, and contemporary culture.

In second place stands Colombo, the capital and chief port of Sri Lanka. Colombo serves as a transitional hub for many travelers visiting Sri Lanka. For example, by train, you can get to Colombo from Kandy in 3 hours. While it may not be the primary destination, it offers opportunities to explore the city's cultural and historical attractions, such as the National Museum, colonial architecture, local temples, and vibrant streets, before continuing your journey.

Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya took third place among women who traveled to Sri Lanka using 12Go. Located in the picturesque hilly terrain, Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its cool climate and tea plantations, offering a relaxed escape amid green hills and valleys.

8th Place - Solo Female Travel To Australia

Australia is a stunning destination in Asia for solo female travelers. The top three places to visit are Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. Flying between these cities is the fastest option. For example, you can get from Sydney to Melbourne for 50 US dollars.

First place goes to Sydney. It stands out for its famous landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbor Bridge, which give the city a unique appearance. People love Sydney for its beautiful beaches and coastal walks that combine city life with nature. You can explore the city's history and creativity at art galleries and museums.

The most fun way to explore Sydney is on foot. If you have a few days, you should walk around the following places: Harbor Bridge, Opera House, Darling Harbour, Royal Botanic Gardens, Hyde Park, and so on.

Second place went to Brisbane. Australia's third-largest city offers excellent weather, green spaces, and many walking paths. You can eat delicious food and drink delicious coffee in many fabulous places. Brisbane is often overlooked when travelers visit cities like Melbourne and Sydney.

Brisbane has a laid-back lifestyle, especially in outdoor areas such as the parklands of the South Bank and the Brisbane River. The warm weather lets you enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking or island-hopping.

Melbourne takes third place in Australia. Melbourne is known for its vibrant cultural and arts scene, with events such as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and the Melbourne Fringe Festival attracting performers and audiences from around the world. If you are a coffee lover, this is the right place to visit. Here, you will find countless cafes serving specialty treats.

9th Place - Solo Female Travel To Japan

Traveling alone as a woman in Japan is a wonderful experience, although perhaps not the most common. Japan is a beautiful country rich in history, culture, and gastronomy, home to some of the most polite and friendly people on the planet.

Japan, one of Asia's most popular tourist destinations, attracts approximately 30 million visitors annually. There are many great things to do in Japan. But keep in mind that English is not widely spoken in Japan.

Tokyo ranks first among solo female travelers in Japan. This city is lively and cheerful, where every woman can find something completely fascinating and unique. Be sure to add to your Tokyo travel bucket list visiting iconic sights such as Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Crossing, and Meiji Shrine, the vibrant Shinjuku and Harajuku districts known for their shopping, dining, and entertainment options, and don't forget the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa and Yanaka Historic District.

The second place went to Kyoto., where people often come for culture. The city is smaller than Tokyo, more accessible, and more popular among tourists. You can start your trip in Tokyo and then head to Kyoto and explore the city's rich history and cultural heritage by visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The biggest attraction here is the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its beautiful torii gate that you can walk through.

You can explore the area on your own or join a guided tour. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony or participate in a hands-on cultural workshop to learn about Kyoto's traditional arts and crafts. There's so much here.

The city of Osaka took 3rd place. As the culinary capital of Japan, Osaka delights visitors with its street food and culture, making it an extraordinary destination for foodies and culture lovers. Head to Osaka and experience the city's vibrant food scene by visiting Dotonbori, a lively street known for its neon lights, food stalls, and iconic landmarks like the Glico Running Man sign. Explore Osaka Castle and its surrounding park, learning about its feudal history and samurai heritage. You can get from Tokyo to Osaka in only 2 hours and 30 minutes by bullet train. The prices start at 37 US dollars.

10th Place - Solo Female Travel To Malaysia

Malaysia could be a good travel destination if you have already visited other Asian places and want to see something new. One of the most important things to know before traveling to Malaysia is that Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country. This means modesty is vital for women traveling to Kuala Lumpur alone.

1st place is secured by Kuala Lumpur, a haven for solo women travelers, offering iconic Petronas Towers, vibrant cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine to explore quickly and safely. Explore the iconic, lively atmosphere of Chinatown and Central Market. Indulge in delicious Malaysian cuisine. Batu Caves, a short train ride away, has steep stairs leading to caves with temples and shrines. You can get there by cheap train; they are open from 6:00 to 21:00, and admission is free.

In second place is Penang, home to the vibrant street art of George Town, delicious hawker food, and captivating cultural heritage sites. Penang is primarily connected to major cities in Malaysia by bus, ferry, and air. The primary mode of transportation to Penang from other cities like Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru is by bus or car. Additionally, you can take a ferry from the mainland to Penang Island. For example, you can get from Kuala Lumpur to Penang in 5 hours. The prices start at 6 US dollars.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town's Old Town is one of Southeast Asia's most compelling attractions and is a great place to start exploring the city. Penang National Park, the world's most miniature, offers a serene escape from George Town. You can hike the two main trails to Monkey Beach or visit the peaceful turtle sanctuary at Pantai Kerachut for an active adventure.

Langkawi secures the third place. Langkawi, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, continues to captivate travelers with its natural beauty and rich heritage. You can get from Penang to Langkawi in 40 minute flight. The prices start at 18 US dollars.

When traveling in Langkawi, explore its pristine beaches, such as Pantai Cenang and Tanjung Rhu. Or take a cable car ride to the top of Gunung Mat Cincang for breathtaking panoramic views. Discover the island's lush rainforests and diverse wildlife at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park.

These travel destinations, powered by 12Go's travel information, serve as a valuable resource for planning your next solo adventure. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore new cultures, meet the locals, and make unforgettable memories along the way.