Asia’s Secret Symphony

Pura Mengening Temple, Indonesia.

Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago with over 1,700 islands, so it stands to reason that you should be able to discover something special there, even in the most unexpected places… even Bali. For example, Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, set in a secluded, verdant hillside in the Payangan forest, is a luxury jungle hideaway that feels a million miles away from the well-trodden tourist path.

Talk to the concierge, and they can arrange a visit to the Pura Mengening Temple. Dating back to the 11th century, this revered but rarely visited temple features two pools where guests can enjoy a cleansing ritual amid the waterfalls and tropical plants. It is Bali, but not as you know it.

Banteay Chhmar, Cambodia.

If you base yourself in Cambodia’s second city, Siem Reap, you can stay at the award-winning Anantara Angkor Resort and in just 15 minutes you can join a tour of the country’s Buddhist icon, Angkor Wat. Alternatively, you could indulge your inner Indiana Jones and make the journey two hours to the northeast, deep into the jungle, where you will find the ruins of Banteay Chhmar.

Dating back to the 12th century and surrounded by a moat, it was once a magnificent walled city built by King Jayarwarman VII, but now the ancient remains of this temple complex are being consumed by nature. Known as the ‘citadel of the cat’, the huge gallery walls feature intricately hand-carved bas-reliefs of famous princes, notable battles and Angkorian life. Mysterious, magical and monumental, the only thing it doesn’t have is crowds of tourists.

Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall, Thailand.

Just two hours from the chaotic capital and the sublime Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel is the town of Kanchanaburi. Home to a host of adventurous opportunities, travellers can discover the ancient temples at Prasat Mueang Singh, hike one of the trails at Khao Chang Puak in Thong Pha Phum National Park, or visit the elephant sanctuary on the Khwae Yai River.

However, for something a little different, but no less remarkable, make time to visit the Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall. A less well-known attraction in the Sri Nakarin Dam National Park, this is seven tiers of cascading natural beauty buried deep in the jungle. At the tail end of the rainy season, between September and October, it is at its very best, when water levels and the weather are perfect. Huay Mae Khamin may be one of Thailand’s most beguiling waterfalls.

Talalla Beach, Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka’s south coast has always been quieter than the west, but things have changed in recent years. Thanks to headline-grabbing beach town hotspots like Mirissa, Koggala and Tangalle – home to Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, an opulent five-star hideaway that overlooks the Indian Ocean – visitors have been migrating across the island for the surf, the vibes and the tantalising turquoise waters.

To avoid the crowds, head for Talalla Beach. Tucked into a large, sheltered cove and surrounded by lush vegetation, it is about 2 kilometres long and is as quiet and serene as it is beautiful. At its best between January and March, don’t be surprised if you get the place to yourself. If Robinson Crusoe had been a travel agent, he’d have recommended it.

Kuang Si Waterfall, Laos.

Officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Laos is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia and one of the least well-known. Its rugged terrain, tropical rainforests and underground river caves make it a place of breathtaking natural beauty. However, would-be travellers are deterred because it is less tourist friendly than some Asian countries.

To get around the limited transport infrastructure, avoid the roads and book yourself a journey along the Mekong River onboard Bohème through Mekong Kingdoms cruises. Starting from the country’s royal capital Luang Prabang, this recently launched 50-metre ‘grand dame’ takes guests to the very heart of the country. The six-day trip between Vientiane and Luang Prabang takes in glorious palaces, Buddhist temples, and even an elephant sanctuary in Xayaboury, but the secret star attraction is the Kuang Si Waterfall. A multitiered jungle oasis set in its own ecosystem, this limestone attraction can be tricky to trek to but is utterly unmissable. Instagram-worthy is an understatement.

Discover more from the world of Minor Hotels.