Picture the landscapes of Southeast Asia and your imagination will likely conjure up images of sloping rice terraces, white-sand beaches, and thickets of dense green jungle. However, the region is equally characterized by its dramatic limestone cliffs, which pepper the countryside from Myanmar to Indonesia.
Ever since rock climbers recognized this in the early ‘90s, the sport has steadily grown, and today, there’s no shortage of staggering rock formations awaiting adventurous travelers who dare to scramble their way up to jaw-dropping views.
From beginner-friendly faces overlooking the beaches of southern Thailand to tricky, technical crags in Laos and Vietnam, here are the best rock climbing destinations to add excitement to your Southeast Asia itinerary.
1. Railay & Hat Ton Sai, Thailand
Climbing in Thailand’s Krabi Province is legendary, and with massive cliffs that rise over white sand beaches and turquoise waters, you simply won’t find a more stunning place to climb than Hat Ton Sai and adjacent Railay.
This beauty, however, comes at the cost of crowds, with guided groups lining up during high season; nonetheless, more experienced climbers can escape the masses and enjoy classic routes ascending to epic views over the Andaman Sea.
For beginners, there are several established guide companies in the area offering gear and lessons, such as Real Rocks and Krabi Rock Climbing.
Where to stay: You will find better quality options in Railay, like Railay Garden View Resort. In contrast, Ton Sai is more suited to budget travelers, offering options like Chill Out Bungalows.
Best time to go: December–April
2. Huu Lung, Vietnam
Climbing the rugged karst formations in Huu Lung, a remote village approximately 110km outside of bustling Hanoi, remains under the radar, but it won’t stay that way for long. Currently, the area boasts over 100 routes featuring plenty of tufa, pockets, and overhangs that can challenge all abilities.
The surrounding community is very rural, and you’ll often need to cross private lands to reach the crags. Therefore, it’s advisable to contact VietClimb, a climbing gym based in Hanoi, for detailed access information alongside guided trips and gear rentals.
Where to stay: Accommodation is limited, but if you seek an authentic experience, VietClimb collaborates with a local family running a homestay in a traditional wooden stilt house a few minutes from the climbing areas.
Best time to go: November–April
3. Tha Khaek, Laos
Situated in the heart of the Laotian jungle, the otherworldly landscapes of Tha Khaek (sometimes spelled Thakhek) feature over 400 bolted routes, including several multi-pitches.
Beginners will find guides and gear rentals available at Green Climbers Home, which lies directly in the valley below the towering limestone walls. This laid-back climber’s camp offers rustic bamboo bungalows, dorm rooms, and tents, allowing you to wake up just a few steps away from the crag each day.
The climbing itself varies significantly, from steep overhangs with stalactites in caves to slab climbing up less than vertical pitches.
Where to stay: Green Climbers Home is an excellent choice, but if you prefer something more upscale, Inthira Thakhek Hotel is located in town a few kilometers away.
Best time to go: December–March
4. Cantabaco, the Philippines
In addition to its picturesque beaches and exceptional diving, the island of Cebu also offers some of the best rock climbing in the Philippines.
At the striking limestone crag above the village of Cantabaco, you’ll find over 60 routes on high-quality rock, with some sections full of jugs and tufa that novices can hone their skills on and others with tiny crimps and pockets demanding precise technique. Gear rentals and guides can be obtained by contacting the Cebu Rock Climbing Community.
Where to stay: Lodging options are limited in Cantabaco; few guesthouses like Ate Yolly’s offer basic accommodations, but day trips from Cebu City are also viable.
Best time to go: January–March
5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
If you’re going to be in Kuala Lumpur, chances are a visit to the temples and shrines at Batu Caves is on your to-do list. While you’re there, consider climbing the walls surrounding the religious complex for a unique urban climbing experience.
The Damai Wall on the north side is a popular option for beginners, featuring over 100 routes maintained by Gua Damai Extreme Park, offering guiding services and rental equipment. There are also other areas, including Nyamuk Wall, where you’re likely to find the local climbing community congregating on weekends.
Where to stay: Hotel Richbaliz is a comfortable option close to Batu Caves. For a cheaper alternative in the downtown area, consider Paper Plane Hostel or The Longhouse near Chinatown.
Best time to go: December–February
6. Nam Pha Pa Yai, Thailand
Nam Pha Pa Yai, located in Saraburi, serves as the perfect antidote when the hustle and bustle of Bangkok begins to wear you down. Roughly two hours outside of the city by car (or three hours by train), you’ll find a down-to-earth camp with bungalows, treehouses, and tents just across the river from the main climbing wall, accessed via zip line – an exhilarating start before you tie in.
The limestone features sections with slabs and jugs suitable for beginners, alongside more challenging vertical faces for advanced climbers.
Where to stay: Nam Pha Pa Yai Camp is a relaxing and convenient option, albeit rustic. If you seek more comfort, the nearby Supalai Pasak Resort offers a comfortable (and quirky) alternative.
Best time to go: November–March
7. Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
The famed Unesco World Heritage site of Halong Bay garners most attention along Vietnam’s northern coast; however, those same awe-inspiring karsts can be found just a short boat ride away on Cat Ba Island.
Numerous climbing opportunities await here, from an inland crag at Butterfly Valley to deep water soloing (climbing without ropes over water) in Lan Ha Bay. Langur’s Adventures and Cat Ba Climbing are reputable services in Cat Ba Town, providing guided tours and rentals, and assisting with accessing deep water solo areas.
Where to stay: For clean, affordable rooms right in town, Hai Binh Hotel is a solid option, or you can spend a little extra at the Cat Ba Eco Lodge to immerse yourself in nature.
Best time to go: March–May
