When it comes to romantic getaways in Asia, places like Bali, the Maldives, and Kyoto usually steal the spotlight. But if you’re craving something more unexpected and places that are equally swoon-worthy but delightfully under the radar…you’re in for a treat! Asia is vast and wildly diverse, offering hidden pockets of paradise that are perfect for couples who want to escape the crowds and connect in a deeper, more meaningful way.
Here are some of the most romantic destinations in Asia that you probably haven’t thought of:
#1 Luang Prabang, Laos
If you’re looking for a place that feels frozen in time, with golden temples, gentle river cruises, and French colonial charm, Luang Prabang is your dream destination. Tucked between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, this UNESCO World Heritage city offers a peaceful, almost spiritual ambiance. Take a private boat ride at sunset, explore hidden waterfalls like Kuang Si, or wake up early together to witness the ancient alms-giving ritual. Boutique heritage hotels with garden courtyards and spa treatments rooted in local traditions add to the sense of intimate luxury. It’s romantic in the most soulful and serene way.
#2 Banaue, Philippines
Forget white sand beaches, Banaue’s romance lies in its misty mountains and ancient rice terraces, carved into the hillsides over 2,000 years ago! The scenery is otherworldly, especially at sunrise, when the fog lifts to reveal emerald-green steps that stretch for miles. Couples who love adventure and authenticity will fall for the region’s unspoiled beauty and warm hospitality. Stay in a traditional Ifugao hut-turned-luxury homestay, hike hand-in-hand through villages untouched by time, and savor local delicacies by candlelight. It’s rustic, magical, and utterly unforgettable.
#3 Ella, Sri Lanka
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Ella is a lush, slow-paced mountain town that’s perfect for couples who want to unwind in nature. Surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls, the air is fresh, the landscapes are cinematic, and the vibe is laid-back and welcoming. Ride the iconic train from Kandy to Ella which is arguably one of the world’s most romantic journeys, and check into a stylish boutique villa with sweeping valley views. Sip Ceylon tea on your terrace, take scenic hikes to Nine Arches Bridge or Little Adam’s Peak, and watch the sun dip behind the hills. It’s romantic escapism, elevated.
#4 Gujarat’s White Desert, India
For an experience that feels straight out of a dream, visit the surreal Rann of Kutch in Gujarat—a vast white salt desert that glows under the moonlight. Each year during the Rann Utsav festival (typically from November to February), the desert comes alive with luxury tented camps, live music, dancing, and stargazing. Imagine a candlelit dinner under a canopy of stars in the middle of the desert, or waking up to a horizon that feels infinite. This is romance redefined—dramatic, otherworldly, and surprisingly luxurious.
#5 Naoshima, Japan
If you and your partner bond over art, architecture, and quiet coastal vibes, Naoshima might be your perfect match. This tiny island in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea is a hidden gem transformed into an open-air museum. Dotted with cutting-edge galleries, contemporary installations, and Tadao Ando-designed architecture, it’s a creative couple’s paradise. Stay at Benesse House, a luxe art hotel where you can sleep next to a Yayoi Kusama sculpture or wake up to the sound of waves outside your minimalist suite. Spend your days wandering art spaces, cycling through sleepy fishing villages, and soaking in Japanese hot springs. It’s quirky, cultured, and deeply romantic.
#6 Haputale, Sri Lanka
Still off the typical tourist trail, Haputale offers panoramic mountain views, endless tea fields, and an intimate, misty atmosphere that feels made for two. It’s quieter than Ella but just as stunning, and perfect for couples who want privacy and scenic solitude. Book a private bungalow with floor-to-ceiling windows, watch clouds roll over the valleys from your bed, and explore nearby Lipton’s Seat or the Dambatenne Tea Factory. It’s a destination that encourages slow mornings, meaningful conversation, and deep connection.
