11 Cheapest Countries For Malaysians To Visit In 2024 Since The Ringgit Is Weak

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Editor's Note: The prices listed in this article are accurate at the time of writing, travel costs do not include flights.

Myanmar, with its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, offers a variety of experiences for travellers. 

1. Explore Bagan Temples:
Bagan is renowned for its vast and ancient temple complex. Witness the sunrise or sunset from the top of a temple and explore the unique architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Visit Inle Lake:
Take a boat trip on Inle Lake to experience the distinctive Intha fishermen, floating villages, and traditional markets. The picturesque lake is surrounded by hills and offers a serene environment.

3. Discover Yangon and Shwedagon Pagoda:
Explore Yangon, Myanmar's largest city, and visit the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. The pagoda is not only a religious site but also an architectural marvel, especially at sunset when it is beautifully illuminated.

4. Experience Mandalay:
Discover the cultural and historical sites in Mandalay, including the Mandalay Palace, Mandalay Hill, and the ancient cities of Amarapura, Sagaing, and Ava.

5. Ngapali Beach Relaxation:
Unwind on the pristine shores of Ngapali Beach, located on the Bay of Bengal. Enjoy the white sandy beaches, clear waters, and a range of water activities or simply relax by the sea.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs, including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM196/day
Mid-range traveller - RM257/day

Best time to visit - November - February (cooler months at the start of the dry season)

Laos offers a range of unique and diverse experiences for travellers. Delve into the country's cultural and natural wonders on a budget.

1. Observe the Luang Prabang Almsgiving Ceremony:
Witness the traditional almsgiving ceremony in Luang Prabang, where Buddhist monks collect morning alms.

2. Visit Kuang Si Falls:
Kuang Si Falls near Luang Prabang is a popular and picturesque destination known for its turquoise cascading waters and tiered pools.

3. Explore Vang Vieng outdoor adventures:
For adrenaline junkies, you can check out adventure activities in Vang Vieng, such as tubing, rock climbing, and hot air ballooning.

4. Go on the Phongsali Trek:
Located in northen Laos, Phongsali is the perfect destination for a trekking adventure. This less-visited region offers a chance to explore remote hill tribe villages and experience authentic local cultures.

5. Escape to Don Daeng Island:
Get away from the crowds by visiting Don Daeng, an island in the Mekong River near Champasak.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM28/day
Mid-range traveller - RM70/day

Best time to visit - November - February (cooler months at the start of the dry season)

What is an affordable travel list without Thailand?

1. Explore Bangkok:
Enjoy street food at Khao San Road, shop for anything and everything at open markets or modern shopping malls, then soak in Thai architecture and history at the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.

2. Visit Chiang Mai:
Known for its affordability, the ancient city of Chiang Mai offers rich cultural heritage with its many historic temples, including Doi Suthep, a temple atop a mountain.

3. Relax in Phuket, Koh Lanta, or Koh Chang:
Home to many beautiful beaches with stunning landscapes and snorkelling opportunities, Thailand is full of incredible seaside options.

4. Ayutthaya Historical Park:
Explore the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historical park features impressive temples and sculptures from the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

5. Experience Thai Culture in Sukhothai:
Visit Sukhothai Historical Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved ruins and ancient temples.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM140/day
Mid-range traveller - RM392/day

Best time to visit - November - February (cooler months at the start of the dry season)

The food, culture, and people make Vietnam such a special place to visit. Plus, the weather is oh-so-cooling in the northern regions!

1. Halong Bay Cruise:
Explore Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts and islets. A cruise allows you to experience the serene landscapes and visit caves, as well as floating fishing villages.

2. Hike in Sapa:
Head to Sapa in the northern mountains for trekking adventures amid terraced rice fields and traditional villages. The landscapes are stunning, and staying in a homestay provides insight into local life.

3. Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter:
Wander through the narrow streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, where you'll find a mix of French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant street markets.

4. Visit Hoi An Ancient Town:
Explore the well-preserved ancient town of Hoi An, known for its charming architecture, lantern-lit streets, and rich history. Visit traditional houses, enjoy local cuisine, and take a stroll along the Thu Bon River.

5. Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City:
Learn about Vietnam's wartime history by visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City. These tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, and guided tours provide a glimpse into guerrilla warfare strategies.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM107/day
Mid-range traveller - RM289/day

Best time to visit 
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa): September to November and March to April are considered optimal, avoiding both the extreme heat and heavy rains.
- Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang): March to August is generally sunny, while September to November can be rainy.
- Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): November to April is the dry season, while May to October is the wet season.

1. Angkor Wat and Angkor Archaeological Park:
Explore the temples of Angkor, with Angkor Wat being the most famous. The ancient Khmer architecture and intricate carvings make this UNESCO World Heritage Site a must-visit.

2. Phnom Penh and the Royal Palace:
Visit the capital city, Phnom Penh, and explore the Royal Palace. Admire the stunning architecture and the Silver Pagoda, which houses the Emerald Buddha.

3. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields:
Gain insight into Cambodia's tragic history by visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields near Phnom Penh. These sites memorialise the Khmer Rouge era and serve as important historical landmarks.

4. Floating Villages on Tonle Sap Lake:
Take a boat trip to the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake. Witness the unique way of life of communities living on the water, and gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia's rural life.

5. Battambang Bamboo Train:
Experience the Bamboo Train in Battambang, a unique form of local transportation. Bamboo platforms are placed on old train tracks, providing a thrilling and unconventional ride through the countryside.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs, including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM98/day
Mid-range traveller - RM289/day

Best time to visit - November - February (cooler months at the start of the dry season)

Indonesia has so much to offer. If you're on a budget, it may be best to skip the more popular destinations like Jakarta and Bali. Here are destinations you can check out instead:

1. Yogyakarta:
Yogyakarta, often called Jogja, is known for its rich Javanese culture and historical sites. Visit the Kraton (Sultan's Palace), explore the water castle of Taman Sari, and marvel at the intricate carvings of the Prambanan Temple.

2. Malang:
Malang, located in East Java, is known for its cool climate and Dutch colonial architecture. Explore the city's historical sites like Jalan Ijen, visit the charming town of Batu, and hike up to Mount Bromo for breathtaking sunrise views.

3. Bukittinggi (West Sumatra):
Bukittinggi is nestled in the Minangkabau Highlands and offers affordable exploration. Visit the Ngarai Sianok for scenic views, explore the Japanese Tunnel, and experience traditional Minangkabau culture.

4. Lombok:
Lombok is often considered a more budget-friendly alternative to Bali. Enjoy the pristine beaches, such as Kuta Beach and Tanjung Aan. Trek to the top of Mount Rinjani for stunning views, and explore traditional Sasak villages to experience the local culture.

5. Banyuwangi (Java):
Banyuwangi, located at the easternmost tip of Java, is a gateway to several natural attractions. Visit the Ijen Crater to witness the blue flames, explore the Alas Purwo National Park for wildlife, and relax on the beautiful beaches like Red Island.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs, including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM103/day
Mid-range traveller - RM280/day

Best time to visit - May - September (dry season)

Nepal, nestled in the Himalayas, offers a diverse range of activities for travellers.

1. Trekking in the Himalayas:
Nepal is renowned for trekking. Some of their most famous trekking routes include the Everest Base Camp trek, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley trek.

2. Visit Kathmandu Valley:
Explore the cultural and historical treasures of Kathmandu, the capital city. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the ancient royal palaces of Kathmandu Durbar Square.

3. Adventure Sports in Pokhara:
Pokhara is a city surrounded by mountains and lakes, and offers a range of adventure sports. Paraglide over Phewa Lake, go boating, and enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountains.

4. Wildlife Safari in Chitwan National Park:
Experience the wildlife of Nepal by visiting Chitwan National Park in the Terai region. Take a jungle safari in an off-road vehicle to spot rhinoceroses, tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species.

5. Cultural Exploration in Bhaktapur:
Explore Bhaktapur, an ancient city with well-preserved medieval architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Wander through narrow streets and squares, visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and admire the intricate woodwork and craftsmanship in temples.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs, including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM65/day
Mid-range traveller - RM173/day

Best time to visit - September - November (Autumn) or March - May (Spring)

India offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending cultural, historical, and natural wonders. 

1. Jaipur, Rajasthan:
Explore the historic city of Jaipur, often referred to as the "Pink City". Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar. Explore the Amer Fort, located on a hilltop and known for its impressive architecture.

2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Experience the spiritual and cultural heart of India in Varanasi. Take a boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Explore the narrow alleys of the Old City, visit ancient temples, and observe the rituals along the ghats.

3. Agra, Uttar Pradesh:
Visit Agra to see the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Agra Fort and the historic Fatehpur Sikri. Take a stroll in Mehtab Bagh for a panoramic view of the Taj Mahal. Experience the rich Mughal history and architecture.

4. Kerala (Backwaters and Munnar):
Experience the tranquil backwaters of Kerala by taking a houseboat cruise through Alleppey or Kumarakom. Then, explore the picturesque hill station of Munnar, known for its tea plantations, misty hills, and diverse flora.

5. Rishikesh and Haridwar, Uttarakhand:
Immerse yourself in the spiritual and adventure experiences in Rishikesh and Haridwar. Attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar. In Rishikesh, experience yoga along the Ganges, go for white-water rafting, and visit the Beatles Ashram.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM70/day
Mid-range traveller - RM182/day

Best time to visit - October - March (cooler Winter months)

Certain areas in Europe are extremely expensive, in particular Scandinavia and most of Western Europe. But eastern Europe is often just as cheap as Southeast Asia! For history lovers, Poland is a great place to visit.

1. Explore the Old Towns of Warsaw and Krakow:
Visit the Old Town in Warsaw, meticulously reconstructed after World War II and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the charming streets, Royal Castle, and Market Square.

2. Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp
Take an educational visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former Nazi concentration and extermination camp. The site stands as a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and offers a profound historical experience.

3. Experience the Tatra Mountains:
Head to the Tatra Mountains in southern Poland for outdoor adventures. Zakopane, the gateway to the Tatras, offers hiking and skiing opportunities. Take the cable car to Kasprowy Wierch for stunning mountain views.

4. Wieliczka Salt Mine:
Explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Krakow. Descend into the underground chambers and tunnels to discover intricate salt sculptures, chapels, and an underground lake.

5. Visit the Breathtaking Malbork Castle:
Discover Malbork Castle, the largest castle in the world by land area, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located near Gdansk, the castle is a masterpiece of medieval brick Gothic architecture.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs, including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM112/day
Mid-range traveller - RM294/day

Best time to visit - April - August (Spring & Summer) or September - November (Autumn)

Another cheap country to visit in Europe is Romania. Despite being a beautiful country, it receives very few tourists, which makes its prices much cheaper.

1. Explore Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle):
Bran Castle is often associated with the Dracula legend. Explore the medieval fortress located in the Carpathian Mountains near Brasov. Learn about the history of the castle and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

2. Discover the Transfagarasan Highway:
Rent a car to enjoy a scenic journey along the Transfagarasan Highway, one of the most spectacular mountain roads in the world. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of the Fagaras Mountains, visit Balea Lake, and explore the ruins of Poienari Castle.

3. Visit Peles Castle and Sinaia:
Explore Peles Castle, a masterpiece of German Renaissance architecture nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. While in Sinaia, visit the Pelisor Castle and enjoy the town's picturesque surroundings.

4. Hike in the Retezat National Park:
Discover the natural beauty of Retezat National Park, Romania's first national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Be sure to check out Bucura, the largest glacial lake in the country.

5. Visit Painted Monasteries of Northern Moldova:
Explore the Painted Monasteries of Northern Moldova, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit monasteries such as Voronet, Humor, and Moldovita.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs, including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM182/day
Mid-range traveller - RM387/day

Best time to visit - April - August (Spring & Summer) or September - November (Autumn)

Located in Southeastern Europe, Bulgaria is said to be very welcoming of tourists.

1. Visit Sofia and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral:
Explore the capital city, Sofia, and visit the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Admire the impressive architecture and explore the interior with its beautiful frescoes.

2. Discover Rila Monastery:
Visit Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Bulgaria's most famous cultural landmarks. Explore the monastery complex, known for its striking architecture, and serene surroundings in the Rila Mountains.

3. Explore Plovdiv's Old Town:
Wander through the charming Old Town of Plovdiv, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Visit the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, the Roman Stadium, and the vibrant Kapana district, filled with art galleries and cafés.

4. Hike in the Pirin National Park:
Discover the natural beauty of Pirin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park offers various trails for different skill levels.

5. Relax at the Black Sea Resorts:
Visit the Black Sea coast and relax at popular resorts like Sunny Beach or Sozopol. Enjoy the sandy beaches, water activities, and lively nightlife.

Based on Budget Your Trip, the average daily costs including accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing are:

Budget traveller - RM131/day
Mid-range traveller - RM322/day

Best time to visit - April - August (Spring & Summer) or September - November (Autumn)