To celebrate International Day of Forests on March 21, digital travel platform Agoda reveals the five most popular forest destinations in Asia, based on searches conducted in February 2025.

Seoul Forest Park in Seoul, South Korea, claims the top spot, followed by Bali’s Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Indonesia and Japan’s Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto in second and third place. Rounding out the top five are Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and Kilim Geoforest Park in Langkawi, Malaysia.

From lush urban oases to ancient rainforests, mangroves, and mist-covered mountain woodlands, Asia offers a wealth of green havens for those eager to reconnect with nature. Whether trekking through tropical jungles, spotting wildlife, or simply embracing the calm beauty of towering trees, these five forest retreats are perfect for a revitalizing escape.

1. Seoul Forest Park, Seoul, South Korea

Nestled in the heart of South Korea’s vibrant capital, Seoul Forest Park serves as a vast green refuge offering a peaceful break from the urban rush. This park features woodlands, wetlands, and diverse gardens where visitors can enjoy tranquil walks along scenic paths, visit the butterfly conservatory, or interact with deer in the ecological forest. It’s an ideal place to experience the soothing serenity of nature while also enjoying scenic views of the Han River.

2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Bali, Indonesia

Situated in Ubud, Bali, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a tranquil nature reserve and spiritual temple complex surrounded by towering banyan and nutmeg trees, many of which are sacred to Balinese culture. Home to more than 1,260 long-tailed macaques, the sanctuary offers shaded trails for quiet walks under the dense canopy. Visitors can explore historic temples, learn about the sacred trees, and observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, making it an important site for both conservation and cultural heritage.

3. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is renowned for its mesmerizing beauty. As visitors wander through the towering bamboo stalks, they are transported into an almost mystical atmosphere. The gentle rustling of bamboo leaves and the interplay of light create the perfect environment for “shinrin-yoku,” or forest bathing, where travelers immerse themselves in nature. Beyond the grove, nearby attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tenryu-ji Temple and scenic boat rides along the Hozu River further enhance the cultural and historical experience.

4. Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Known as the “Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai offers a breathtaking combination of misty forests, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping mountain vistas. Hikers can trek along trails that lead to the summit of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak, where they can enjoy spectacular panoramic views. The park is also home to rare bird species and colorful rhododendron flowers, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

5. Kilim Geoforest Park, Langkawi, Malaysia

Kilim Geoforest Park in Langkawi showcases Malaysia’s rich mangrove ecosystems, offering a blend of natural splendor and ecological significance. As a UNESCO Global Geopark, its network of mangrove forests plays a crucial role in preserving the coastline and supporting diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore this unique ecosystem by boat, navigating through winding waterways surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery. Along the way, they can spot a variety of wildlife, including eagles, otters, and mudskippers.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, said, “Forests are nature’s sanctuaries, and Agoda is proud to offer travelers opportunities to recharge and reconnect with nature while supporting conservation efforts. Through the Eco Deals program, Agoda donates one US dollar to WWF conservation projects for every booking made on discounted partnering properties. It’s a win-win for travelers and the planet, making it even easier to experience breathtaking forest escapes at great value.” 

With the recent debut of its 2025 edition, Agoda’s Eco Deals program offers Asia-bound travelers the chance to give back to the destinations they cherish while enjoying excellent value. The program provides up to 15% discounts at partner hotels across 10 Asian markets, now including Japan and South Korea as new participating countries. For each Eco Deals booking, Agoda contributes one US dollar to WWF conservation efforts, supporting wildlife protection and the preservation of vital ecosystems across Asia. This includes forest restoration and management initiatives in Indonesia’s Bukit Tigapuluh National Park and Vietnam’s Bach Ma National Park.

For those eager to discover Asia’s vibrant forests and natural beauty, Agoda offers access to over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000+ flight routes, and 300,000+ activities, all available for booking together. Explore the best travel deals by downloading the Agoda mobile app or visiting Agoda.com for your next adventure.

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