![](https://www.thomascook.in/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/southeast-asia-celebration-1.jpg)
Celebrations of Southeast Asia
Table of contents
The breath-taking sights, the pungent spices, and the bustling markets of Southeast Asia will awaken your senses. Add to that, the snaking rainforests, pristine waters and sand at the edges. Now top it off with rising volcanoes and you’ll find a region that boasts spectacular geography, rich and ancient civilizations and spirited and warm people.
And the best way to witness their spirit is through their wonderful celebrations. Here are a few gems from the magical islands of Southeast Asia where you will get the chance to immerse yourself in the spirit and soul of these wonderful people.
Cambodia
![Cambodia festival](https://blog.thomascook.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Cambodia-festival.jpg)
This spellbinding kingdom has a rich and complex history, reflected in the people who inhabit this land. Happiness and sorrow, joy and suffering, the new and the old – these contrasts are built into the Cambodian DNA, giving them a unique and valued perspective on life and their relationship with the land. Although Cambodia has seen upheaval after upheaval, the spirit of the Khmers (natives of Cambodia) remains strong as ever. After all, they have this beautiful country to cherish – starting with just the stunning temples. Just like the Greeks worshipped Mount Olympus, the Cambodians revere their Angkor temples. Considered to be an earthly representation of Mount Meru, the abode of the Hindu gods, these temples are a splendid integration of spirituality and creativity. They evoke a sense of pride for the Khmers with their elegance, grandeur, intricacy and symmetry. However, Cambodia has a lot more to offer. The capital, Phnom Penh is an elegant fusion of the ancient and the modern. It boasts of the Royal Palace, which is the home of the reigning monarch (This means that parts of the grounds are closed off to the public). Visitors, however, are free to see the adjacent Silver Pagoda, an embodiment of the treasures of the Khmer civilization. Another tradition of Cambodia is the Sea Festival, which occurs in December. You can indulge in motorboat racing, swimming, Cambodian martial arts and beach volleyball – ringing in the New Year with a burst of adrenaline and happiness.
Suggested Read : Vietnam and Cambodia – Backpackers Second Home
Laos, Must Visit Island in Southeast Asia
![festival Boun Ock Phansa boat racing](https://blog.thomascook.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/festival-Boun-Ock-Phansa-boat-racing-1024x420.jpg)
The land of the lotus eaters, Laos has not forgotten its traditions. The country is steeped in a history that has trickled down to its people today. If you’re looking for serenity, then at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Nam Khan, you’ll find Luang Prabang, an old French Town populated with calm saffron-clad monks, hidden Indochinese villages and elegant Gallic cuisine. Then there is Si Phan Don, the archipelago that gave it the name the land of the lotus eaters. Literally translating to 4,000 islands, Si Phan Don has an ethereal charm which some would say is otherworldly, making it all the more difficult to leave behind. You will find that Vientiane has transformed its elegant Gallic architecture (remnants of its history as a French trading post) into chic restaurants and hotels; a testament to the respectful nature of the people of Laos. Wondering when you should book your trip? Well, one of the perfect times to visit this wonderful country would be during October. The festival Boun Ock Phansa, which marks the end of the Buddhist Lent occurs in this month, and the highlight of the festival is the boat racing! The people of Laung Prabang and Vientiane, the towns through which the vast Mekong River flows, take to the streets for celebration. The lively parades with their elaborate floats which are eventually offered to the naga or mythical water serpents add a magical charm to the festival.
Philippines
![Pahiyas Festival](https://blog.thomascook.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Pahiyas-Festival.jpg)
Spread across 7000 tropical islands, the Philippines is a beach lover’s paradise. Within these islands you will find emerald rice fields, bustling megacities and ancient volcanoes. The clear waters of the Bacuit Archipelago are surrounded by jagged limestone islands which will mesmerize you from every angle, whether you’re underwater, lying on the beach or with a bird’s eye view. The islands have white-sand beaches, lagoons and coves hidden among them and the depths of the ocean have hundreds of species of fish and coral waiting to be discovered. Once you have relished the delights of the beach, head to Banaue. The encompassing rice terraces are a favourite amongst visitors. Did you know that they were planted 2000 years ago, and are on the World Heritage list? The Ifugao people, once head-hunters, were as skilled at building the rice terraces as they were at carving wood. Their carved bulol are a Philippine icon; these rice guardians carved of wood are considered to gain their power from the presence of the ancestral spirit.
In the far north of Palawan (a province of the Philippines) are the Busuanga and Calamian Islands. With the options of wreck diving, kayaking, island-hopping and motorbiking, these islands are an adventurer’s haven. The region is filled with white-sand beaches, dense rainforests and mangroves above ground and exquisite coral reefs underwater. Then there is the Pahiyas Festival, celebrated on 15th May. A harvest festival, it turns Lucban into a vivid medley of colours. The people decorate the walls of their houses with turnips, eggplants, winged beans and all the possible fruits and vegetables. The best part of the festival? It’s open to everyone. You can buy a basket and pick the produce off the walls for free!
Timor-Leste
![Festival of Culture and Food of Timor-Leste - Southeast Asia](https://blog.thomascook.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Festival-of-Culture-and-Food-of-Timor-Leste.jpg)
The newest Asian country, Timor-Leste is the first sovereign state of the 21st century. Hidden away from the rest of the world, it has risen anew from a tumultuous past. With untouched reefs, unexplored mountains and the evergreen traditions, the country offers a truly off-beaten path. Once you experience and learn the history in the capital Dili, don’t miss out on what the rest of the land has to offer. Twenty kilometres away from the capital is the Atauro Island, and it was been in the limelight since Conservation International deemed it to have the most biodiverse waters in the world. With snorkelling and diving trips available on the island, it is a great location to relax along the coast and witness the underwater world. Set on a cliff is the Tutuala village, where you can enjoy the sea-view from a Portuguese pousada. Or visit the community run Valu Sere where you will find thatched cabins.
Off the road to Valu are great rock art caves, a remnant of the ancient people living here. And across the turquoise waters is the uninhabited Jaco Island. Considered a sacred isle among the locals, occupying the island is prohibited. But the fishermen will offer you a boat ride for a day trip. And then there is Mundo Perdido which literally means ‘Lost World’. The sunrise when you reach the top of the plateau will definitely make the trek worth it. And you should try to visit during the Festival of Culture and Food of Timor-Leste. Saying it is certainly a mouthful and attending it will definitely be bountiful. You will experience the traditional dances, music and amazing food. In a way it is a chance to truly understand the Timorese culture.
Wondering how to get here, come to Thomas Cook and we will help you plan an adventure through the marvels of Southeast Asia.
Table of contents
Trending blogs for you
Recommended Articles for you
Top 20 Things To Do In Bhutan – The Land of Happiness
Reading Time: 7 minutes 0 0 Bhutan is an ethereal heaven on earth. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountains, shadowy forests, beautiful monasteries and a gorgeous countryside, you will certainly believe that God took his time shaping Bhutan into the natural splendour it is […]
Everything You Need To Know About Sri Lanka
Reading Time: 4 minutes 0 0 Sri Lanka, the younger cousin of good old India, is an absolute beauty. A country that has so much to offer, and is worthy of featuring in your ‘places to visit’ list. It is known as the ‘Pearl […]
Andaman Islands – Everything you need to know about
Reading Time: 5 minutes 0 0 Nature’s beauty and some of the most beautiful, pristine beaches, make the Andaman Islands a traveller’s delight. The Andaman Islands can boast of the various natural phenomena that can be a treat for all, whether he is a […]
Sikkim’s Spiritual Splendour: Embarking on a Journey of Buddhist Discovery in Gangtok
Reading Time: 7 minutes 0 0 Nestled amid the Himalayas, Gangtok stands as a tranquil haven for travelers seeking spiritual solace and natural beauty. With its serene monasteries, breathtaking viewpoints, and rich cultural heritage, Gangtok offers a unique blend of experiences that captivate the […]
The Sacred Sands of Puri: Unraveling The Mysteries Of Jagannath Temple & Beyond
Reading Time: 7 minutes 3 0 Nestled amidst the tranquil sands of Puri lies the Jagannath Temple, a sanctuary of spirituality and wonder. As one of the Char Dhams, this ancient pilgrimage site holds a special place in the hearts of Hindu devotees. The […]
A Divine Sojourn: Why Mcleodganj is the Perfect Destination for Spiritual Seekers
Reading Time: 7 minutes 0 0 Mcleodganj is a popular hill station located in the suburbs of Dharamshala, which is another popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. The mighty Dhauladhar Range surrounding Mcleodganj attracts trekkers to explore the Kangra valley and admire its natural […]
Rajasthan’s Spiritual Oasis: Experiencing Peace & Devotion in Pushkar
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Pushkar is a spiritual destination situated in the scenic landscapes of Rajasthan. It is a place that attracts visitors from all over the world, including pilgrims and travellers who seek peace and tranquillity. With its serene lake, vibrant […]
Mystical Insights in Tiruvannamalai: Delving into Hinduism & Meditation in Tamil Nadu
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Tiruvannamalai is nestled at the base of the sacred Mount Arunachala in Tamil Nadu. It symbolizes spiritual enlightenment and mysticism. This quaint town exudes an aura of tranquillity and calm, drawing pilgrims and seekers from all corners of […]
Soulful Serenity in Bodh Gaya: The Place of Enlightenment & Buddhist Pilgrimage
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Millions revere Bodh Gaya as the sacred site where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment over 2,500 years ago, becoming the Buddha. Nestled in the serene state of Bihar, India, Bodh Gaya is a popular destination of spiritual enlightenment, drawing […]
Journey to the Divine: Pilgrimage to the Holy City of Amritsar
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Nestled in the heart of Punjab, Amritsar stands as a land known for its spirituality and cultural heritage. Steeped in history dating back to the 16th century, this vibrant city is renowned as the spiritual capital of Sikhism. […]
The Tranquil Charms of Dharamshala: A Retreat for Tibetan Buddhism & Nature Lovers
Reading Time: 7 minutes 0 0 Nestled in the serene foothills of the Himalayas, Dharamshala is a captivating destination renowned for its tranquil ambience, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. Situated in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, this picturesque town serves […]
Varanasi: India’s spiritual heartbeat on the banks of the Ganges
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Nestled along the revered banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi stands as a timeless beauty to India’s spiritual heritage. Known by various names such as Kashi or Benares, this ancient city showcases an aura of tranquillity and peace. […]
A Spiritual Journey in Rishikesh: Exploring Yoga, Meditation & Adventure
Reading Time: 7 minutes 1 0 Rishikesh is a spiritual haven in the foothills of the Himalayas where the Ganges flows and beckons seekers from all over the world. It is a place of self-discovery and renewal. Rishikesh is a destination that derives its […]
Top Places To Visit In Bhutan – The Land of Happiness
Reading Time: 5 minutes 0 0 Summer is upon us, and this calls for an exciting vacation. How about beating the scorching heat in a place known for its unadulterated nature and picturesque beauty? Yes, we are talking about the happiest country in the […]
Forex Card vs Credit Card – Which is the Better Option for International Travel?
Reading Time: 5 minutes 0 0 It was a bright sunny morning when we reached Lake Geneva Castle in Switzerland. We needed to park the car and it required Swiss francs to do so. Since my friends and I were travelling from Paris, all […]
Navigating the Globe: A Comprehensive Comparison of Thomas Cook India vs Other Foreign Exchange Providers
Reading Time: 6 minutes 2 0 The dynamic and volatile market of foreign currency exchanges is fast-paced and forever changing as it is highly impacted by the political, legal and economic environment of a country. Hence, it is in the best interest of all […]
Local Banks vs. Specialised Foreign Exchange Providers: Where Should You Exchange Currency for Your Next Trip?
Reading Time: 5 minutes 1 0 Travelling worldwide is learning and experiencing different nations, enjoying cuisines, learning about cultures, and having much more fun. However, when you travel abroad, you can’t use Indian currency anywhere. These days, it is not difficult to get foreign […]
7 Mesmerising Valleys in Ladakh for A Relaxing Vacation
Reading Time: 7 minutes 0 0 A heavenly destination situated in the northern region of India, Ladakh is renowned for its stunning valleys and is known as the land of high passes It is located between the mountain ranges of Kunlun in the north […]
12 Outstanding Dubai Attractions That Should Not Be Missed
Reading Time: 6 minutes 4 11 With so many people visiting this Arab city every year, Dubai needs no introduction. You are spoiled by choices of places when it comes to Dubai attractions! Did you know Dubai is now open to international visitors? It has officially […]
21 Magical Places to Visit Near Pune in Monsoon
Reading Time: 10 minutes 8 0 Often called the twin city of Mumbai, Pune is a unique and lively metropolis in Maharashtra. With tons of great Places to Visit in and around the city, surely every avid traveller will love to explore the absolute wonders […]