Agoda, a digital travel platform used by millions of travellers, has revealed its latest survey, which shows that Munnar, a hill station in Kerala, has secured a coveted spot among Asia’s top eight rural destinations. The list also includes beautiful places from Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and more. Keep reading to know the full list.
Hill Station Munnar Is Now One Of Asia’s Top Rural Destinations
Nowadays, it’s becoming quite common for travellers to opt for rural getaways instead of city trips. These destinations offer the chance to relax, unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. According to Agoda’s latest data, eight rural destinations across Asia have been trending among travellers, and our very own Munnar in Kerala has made it to the list. How great is that!
Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations, peaceful environment and misty hills. It’s undoubtedly the perfect place for anyone looking to experience a refreshing getaway. The list was based on accommodation searches between 15 February and 15 August 2025.
Full List Revealed By Agoda
Here’s the complete list ranked by Agoda in terms of searches:
- Cameron Highlands, Malaysia– Known for its tea plantations, much like Munnar, this hill station has a cool climate and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
- Khao Yai, Thailand– Famous for its wildlife, waterfalls and rich biodiversity, it’s a dream spot for nature lovers.
- Puncak, Indonesia– Ranked third, Puncak is loved for its mountain views, cool climate and local culture, just like the Indian hill station, Munnar.
- Fujikawaguchiko, Japan– Located near Mount Fuji, it offers breathtaking views of the peak along with hot springs, Japanese gardens and natural wonders.
- Kenting, Taiwan– Known for its pristine beaches and marine life, this destination is perfect for water sports, hiking or simply relaxing on the sand.
- Sapa, Vietnam– Sapa is a mountainous region with terraced rice fields. It is known for its local culture and for providing stunning views of the Hoang Lien Son range.
- Munnar, India– Seventh on the list, this gem in Kerala shines among Asia’s finest rural destinations. With tea plantations, a tea museum, wildlife sanctuaries and lush green hills, it truly has it all.
- Pyeongchang, South Korea– Rounding off the list, this rural spot is known for its scenic landscapes and cultural attractions.
Indians Prefer ‘Slow Travel’
Gaurav Malik, Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, “Indian travellers are increasingly looking beyond big cities and turning to rural escapes that offer both natural beauty and cultural richness. Munnar, with its tea gardens, misty hills, and wildlife, emerged as a favourite among those seeking a peaceful yet immersive getaway.”
This is big news! Munnar is steadily emerging as one of India’s top destinations for travellers seeking slow travel and peaceful escapes. So, when are you planning your trip to Munnar? Let us know!
Cover Image Courtesy: Pexels/ Siva Seshappan (Representative Image)