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Enric Casals, Vice President of Southeast Asia, Agoda, shared, “I’m incredibly proud and excited that with this third edition of Eco Deals Agoda pledges to donate up to one million US dollars to WWF’s diverse conservation projects across Southeast Asia. The Eco Deals programme helps travellers ‘give back’ to protect for future generations some of the world has wondered.”
To enthuse travellers about the unique and remarkable beauty to explore throughout the Asia Pacific, Agoda looked at some of the top nature destinations across nine markets to come up with ideas to reconnect with nature through ancient forests, deep valleys, and serene lakes.
Gently experience these great destinations:
Khao Yai, Thailand
Khao Yai, which translates to ‘big mountain’ in Thai, is a peaceful nature retreat near Bangkok that features the nation’s first UNESCO-recognized national park. With sprawling rainforests, famous waterfalls like Haew Narok and Haew Suwat, and diverse wildlife including wild elephants and even the Asian black bear, it’s perfect for activities like hiking, safaris, and stargazing, offering visitors an intimate encounter with Asia’s wilderness.
Ooty, India
Ooty, also known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations,’ is nestled within the Nilgiri Hills, which form part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is India’s largest protected forest area and boasts a picturesque town with beautiful lakes and gardens. Ooty is a serene haven for nature enthusiasts who enjoy boating, safaris, and hiking, making it a perfect getaway to experience India’s natural beauty.
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Lombok, Indonesia
Mount Rinjani-Lombok UNESCO Global Geopark in Indonesia features diverse landscapes, including savannahs and tropical forests shaped by volcanic rocks. Standing at 3,726 metres, Mount Rinjani offers a breathtaking view from the summit. Segara Anak Lake, within Rinjani’s caldera, provides tranquil beauty, attracting Hindu pilgrims for rituals. Explore Rinjani-Lombok for adventure, wonder, and unforgettable memories.
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Hakone, Japan
Hakone, a premier Japanese tourist destination, offers breathtaking scenery and a deep-rooted history. Surrounded by mountains, this place is famous for its seasonal beauty, hot springs, and cultural attractions like Lake Ashi and the Hakone Shrine. Easy accessibility to Mount Fuji, diverse dining options, and unique souvenirs further add to its charm, attracting visitors from around the globe.
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Miri, Malaysia
Miri serves as the gate to the UNESCO-listed Gunung Mulu National Park, home to rainforests, rich wildlife, and vast caves including the Sarawak Chamber, the world’s largest cave chamber by area. Here, visitors can explore karst formations, trek Mount Api for spectacular pinnacle vistas, and marvel at bat exoduses in Deer Cave, all through adventurous trails and boat tours.
Siquijor Island, Philippines
Siquijor, known as the ‘Mystical Island of Central Visayas,’ charms visitors with captivating mountain vistas and waterfalls. Mount Bandilaan, the island’s highest peak, showcases indigenous flora and over 100 butterfly species during hikes. The enchanting Cambugahay Falls, nestled in a lush rainforest, is said to have restorative powers, providing a serene escape from urban life.
Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Jeongseon County in Gangwon Province, known for its serene mountain scenery, is an escape into nature. It features seasonal outdoor activities, including winter hikes on Hambaeksan and autumn exploration of Gariwangsan. Adventurous visitors can enjoy the exhilarating Byeongbangchi Skywalk, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Discover the natural beauty of Auraji through recreational pursuits like rafting, making it a must-do during your visit.
Hualien, Taiwan
Hualien, on Taiwan’s east coast, offers stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures. Taroko National Park, a key landmark, is home to dramatic marble cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, with hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints, waterfalls, and mountain temples. Home to diverse wildlife, the park provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Đà Lạt, Việt Nam
Nestled a short flight from bustling HCM City, Đà Lạt offers a nature lover’s paradise with cool weather, pine forests, and waterfalls. It’s ideal for hiking, lake activities like canyoning, and enjoying local gardens. The surroundings offer enchanting scenery, making Đà Lạt an unforgettable retreat for nature enthusiasts from around the globe.
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Since the launch on 3 March 2024, World Wildlife Day, anyone travelling to Southeast Asia can book Eco Deals on Agoda. For every Eco Deals booking, a dollar is donated to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) conservation projects aimed at protecting wildlife and conserving critical habitats in Southeast Asia. In addition, travellers can benefit from a discount of up to 15 per cent. The Nation/ANN
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