3 Least-Visited Countries In Asia

This article was originally on GET.com at: 3 Least-Visited Countries In Asia

Singaporeans who love travelling around the world and within Asia sure have options when it comes to holiday destinations. For those of us who prefer something more unorthodox and off the beaten track, consider these three least-visited countries in Asia that we at GET.com have narrowed down for you.

Some of these countries are practically unheard of to most people whose idea of an Asian holiday involves places like Bangkok, Taiwan, Seoul, Tokyo, Bali and Johor Bahru - you get the drift.

3 Countries In Asia With The Least Tourists

1. Turkmenistan

If you ever step foot onto the soil of Turkmenistan, be sure to include a trip to its famous blazing gas crater aptly named The Door to Hell. Anyhow, the main reasons why tourists don't visit this interesting country in Central Asia where 80% of its land is desert, is that it's been isolated from the outside world for decades; visas are incredibly difficult to obtain; and like North Korea, independent travel is a big fat no.

From 1985 until 2006, Turkmenistan was ruled by a totalitarian dictator named Saparmurat Niyazov who closed hospitals, covered the republic with golden statues of himself, and named months after his own family.

Thanks to this bizarre individual who shut off the country from the world, this ancient land of great tradition, natural beauty and spirituality is unspoilt and untouched - 100% amazing for adventure seekers.

Can Singapore citizens travel visa-free to Turkmenistan? No. Nonetheless, a spanking new US$2.25 billion airport complete with retail space has been rolled out in Turkmenistan's capital city Ashgabat late last year.

2. Tajikistan

Another remote country that is also in Central Asia is Tajikistan, which is slowly becoming more known and popular amongst travellers. With its rich Silk Road history, a mish-mash of Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam cultural influences, breathtaking mountains and lakes and luscious green landscapes, it is no wonder why more people are willing to take the plunge to travel there despite the fact that it's not an easy location to reach or travel around in.

Go trekking in Tajikistan's dramatic highland landscapes (don't miss the spectacular Fann Mountains); visit the longest non-polar glacier in the world in the Pamir Mountains, nestled in the Gorno-Badakhshan province; have cozy afternoon tea with friendly Pamiri families; see the tallest embankment dam in the world on the Vakhsh River; and follow the ancient Silk Road while you are at it.

Can Singapore citizens travel visa-free to Tajikistan? No. You can apply for an e-visa, though.

3. Bhutan

Perched high up in the Himalayas, the sacred Kingdom of Bhutan is one of the least-touristic destinations in Asia despite the fact that many travellers probably are dying to visit the happiest nation on earth. Bhutan is also one of Asia's most photogenic destinations.

Where else but Bhutan can you find a country that prioritises Gross National Happiness instead of typical economic indicators the likes of Gross National Product and Gross Domestic Product?

The key reason why Bhutan isn't swarmed with tourists is because their government has imposed strict restrictions on tourist numbers in accordance to their "High Value. Low Impact" ethos.

Those who are looking to visit Bhutan (except Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders) have to book their trip through a Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners. You can't travel there on your own, of course. Your official tour package will take care of your visa, accommodation, meals, internal transport (minus internal flights), camping equipment, and a licensed Bhutanese tour guide.

Can Singapore citizens travel visa-free to Bhutan? No. Also, for those who are curious, here are some countries that Singaporeans probably don't know they require visas to enter. Bhutan is an underrated travel destination that will awaken your wanderlust; it is one of the most peaceful holiday destinations you can visit for a quiet getaway far, far away from all the city hustle and bustle.

*All information regarding visa requirements was retrieved on 14 March 2017 from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs official website.

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