Our guide on the worst cities to travel in Asia, you can avoid or have your own experience visit them.
While Asia is home to many beautiful and culturally rich destinations, some cities can pose significant challenges for tourists due to factors like pollution, overpopulation, safety concerns, and inadequate infrastructure. Here’s a guide highlighting some of the worst cities to travel to in Asia, based on various metrics and reports.
Traveling to these cities in Asia can present significant challenges due to pollution, overpopulation, safety concerns, and inadequate infrastructure. It’s crucial to take extra precautions and plan carefully if you decide to visit these locations. Whenever possible, consider alternative destinations that offer a safer and more enjoyable travel experience.
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Worst Cities to Travel in Asia
1. Dhaka, Bangladesh
Reason: Overpopulation, pollution, and traffic congestion.
Challenges: Poor air quality, inadequate infrastructure, and frequent flooding.
Key Issues:
Pollution: High levels of air and water pollution.
Traffic: Severe traffic congestion and inadequate public transportation.
Living Conditions: Overcrowded living spaces and frequent power outages.
Travel Tips:
Plan Commutes: Plan your daily commutes carefully to avoid peak traffic hours.
Stay Informed: Check weather conditions regularly to avoid flood-prone areas.
2. Karachi, Pakistan
Reason: Overpopulation, pollution, and political instability.
Challenges: High crime rates, inadequate public services, and frequent power outages.
Key Issues:
Safety: High levels of street crime and political violence.
Infrastructure: Poor infrastructure and inadequate public services.
Pollution: Severe air and water pollution.
Travel Tips:
Security Measures: Invest in secure accommodations and be cautious in public areas.
Stay Updated: Keep up with local news and avoid political gatherings or protests.
3. Delhi, India
Reason: Severe pollution, overpopulation, and traffic congestion.
Challenges: Poor air quality, overcrowded public transportation, and health risks.
Key Issues:
Pollution: Extremely high levels of air pollution, especially during winter.
Traffic: Chronic traffic jams and chaotic driving conditions.
Health Risks: Respiratory issues due to smog and dust.
Travel Tips:
Air Quality: Monitor air quality levels and wear a mask if necessary.
Travel Off-Peak: Avoid traveling during peak hours to reduce time spent in traffic.
Read Here Things to know before visiting India
4. Manila, Philippines
Reason: Overpopulation, traffic congestion, and pollution.
Challenges: Inadequate infrastructure, high crime rates in certain areas, and natural disasters.
Key Issues:
Traffic: Severe congestion and long commute times.
Pollution: Poor air and water quality.
Safety: High crime rates in some neighborhoods.
Travel Tips:
Choose Location Wisely: Stay in safer, well-known neighborhoods.
Natural Disasters: Be aware of typhoon seasons and earthquake risks.
Read Here Budget Travel to the Philippines
5. Jakarta, Indonesia
Reason: Overpopulation, pollution, and traffic congestion.
Challenges: Flooding, inadequate infrastructure, and poor air quality.
Key Issues:
Traffic: Chronic congestion and poor public transport options.
Flooding: Frequent flooding during the rainy season.
Pollution: High levels of air pollution.
Travel Tips:
Stay Central: Choose accommodations in central areas to minimize travel time.
Weather Preparedness: Avoid visiting during the rainy season to reduce flood risk.
6. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Reason: Extreme weather conditions and pollution.
Challenges: Harsh winters, poor air quality, and inadequate infrastructure.
Key Issues:
Weather: Extremely cold winters and hot summers.
Pollution: Severe air pollution during winter due to coal burning.
Infrastructure: Limited infrastructure and amenities.
Travel Tips:
Seasonal Travel: Visit during milder seasons (spring or fall) to avoid extreme weather.
Air Quality: Monitor air quality and take precautions during winter.
7. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Reason: Overpopulation, poor infrastructure, and safety concerns.
Challenges: High crime rates, inadequate healthcare, and traffic congestion.
Key Issues:
Safety: Petty crime and scams are common.
Infrastructure: Poor roads and unreliable public services.
Healthcare: Limited access to quality healthcare.
Travel Tips:
Stay Alert: Be cautious with personal belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.
Health Precautions: Carry necessary medications and health supplies.
Read here the best places to visit in Cambodia
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.