Agoda Ranks Munnar Among Asia’s Top Rural Destinations

Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its list of top rural destinations in Asia, and Kerala’s hill station Munnar has proudly earned a place in the top eight. Known for its tea plantations, misty hills, and tranquil charm, Munnar is attracting travelers who seek immersive experiences in nature, away from the fast-paced life of India’s bustling cities.

The Rise of Rural Tourism in Asia

Rural destinations across Asia, particularly those located in mountains and hillsides, are gaining remarkable popularity. Travelers today are looking for more than just sightseeing they want authentic cultural experiences and natural beauty. These highland getaways provide a slower pace of life, allowing visitors to unwind and reconnect with the environment.

Agoda’s Top Eight Rural Destinations in Asia

Agoda’s ranking was based on accommodation searches made between 15 February to 15 August 2025, across destinations with populations under 50,000 in eight Asian markets.

Here are the top eight rural destinations in Asia according to Agoda:

• Cameron Highlands (Malaysia) – Famous for its tea plantations, cool climate, vibrant flower gardens, and local farms, this serene retreat offers hiking trails and charming villages.
• Khao Yai (Thailand) – Home to Thailand’s oldest national park, this destination is perfect for wildlife safaris, waterfall treks, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Puncak (Indonesia) – A West Java gem known for breathtaking mountains, tea estates, hiking, paragliding, and local markets.
• Fujikawaguchiko (Japan) – Located near Mount Fuji, it offers hot springs, traditional gardens, seasonal festivals, and iconic mountain views.
• Kenting (Taiwan) – A coastal paradise with pristine beaches, coral reefs, water sports, and scenic hiking trails.
• Sapa (Vietnam) – Renowned for terraced rice fields, trekking, and unique local culture against the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range.
• Munnar (India) – A jewel of Kerala, Munnar is beloved for tea gardens, misty hills, tea museums, wildlife sanctuaries, and a peaceful escape from city life.
• Pyeongchang-gun (South Korea) – A year-round destination famous for winter sports, beautiful landscapes, and cultural attractions.

Munnar: India’s Pride in Rural Travel

Highlighting Munnar’s achievement, Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands, Agoda, said: “Indian travelers 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 to be a favorite among those seeking a peaceful yet immersive getaway. At Agoda, we are making these journeys seamless with a wide range of stays, flights, and curated experiences that bring travelers closer to India’s most charming rural destinations.”

Agoda: Making Rural Travel Seamless

Agoda continues to simplify travel by offering:

• 6 million holiday properties
• 130,000+ flight routes
• 300,000+ activities

All of these can be combined in a single booking, making travel planning smooth and stress-free.

Travelers can find the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and start planning their next rural escape with ease. For more details, visit Agoda’s website