#GempakSpot: Fancy A Good Hike On Your Next Holiday? Here Are The Top Hiking Destinations Around Asia

Hiking has become increasingly popular as a weekend or holiday activity, especially amongst travellers seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and keep their fitness goals on track. It is also a good outdoor activity to spend quality time with friends and loved ones.

Here are some under-the-radar hiking destinations in Asia for everyone and anyone, from the seasoned hiker to the enthusiastic newbie.

The best part about these hiking spots is that it comes with experiences and stays booked through Airbnb, which means you'll reap the benefit of knowledgeable local hosts showing you around these off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Jeju Island, South Korea

Since it is a national pastime for many local Koreans, hiking is quickly catching on with travellers who are drawn to South Korea's hallyu wave of Korean pop, dramas and food.

On Jeju Island, which is also the country's favourite domestic holiday destination, the Olle Trail offers a series of walking trails around the perimeter of the island.

Take an early morning trek up the Darangsi Oreum and explore a volcanic formation named after the full moon-looking crater at its peak (darangsi means moon in the local Jeju dialect).

For the avid forest enthusiast, revitalise yourself with this guided forest walk in the Healing Forest of Seogwipo.

Penang, Malaysia

Home to some of the greatest culinary delicacies in Malaysia, not many people know Penang for one of its best kept secrets: breathtaking tropical scenery.

Take a break from feasting with an easy hike in the jungle around Kerachut Beach, led by local host Roslant who has traversed many of the island's iconic trails in the past decade.

You can also indulge in some hand-brewed coffee, visit a local turtle sanctuary and end your day with a short boat ride back to where you started your journey.

Nasogi, India

Embark on a hike in the mountains of Nasogi through quaint villages, local temples and beautiful orchards.

During your adventure, stop by host Radha's home for a Himachali meal overseeing the mountain valley, then continue with a post-lunch hike to an ancient pine forest nearby, which hides a relic locals believe to be the protector of the forest.

Then, stay the evening in a boutique cottage and enjoy mesmerising views of the valley from your own private balcony.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Fancy scaling the Himalayan mountain range with a local Thai photographer and trekking expert? Go on a hike up Chiang Mai's highest mountain and national park, Doi Inthanon, also known as 'The Roof of Thailand'.

You can enjoy scenic views of waterfalls and coffee plantations as you make your way through the forest and right into the heart of the waterfall.

Once you have a taste of local organic rice and a quick lunch right beside the paddy fields, you can also drop by a community market on the way back.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is famous for shopping, towering skyscrapers and cha chaan teng (tea houses), and has been recently gaining popularity amongst the hiking community for its Dragon's Back Trail.

If you want to be in nature away from the crowds, explore Kam Shan Country Park. The short and scenic hike is suitable for the entire family, including strollers!

Parents and children alike will surely be captivated by the monkeys, squirrels and birds around, crystal clear reservoirs, and World War II bunker ruins.

Perth, Australia

Through an over three-hour bushwalk in beautiful forest land near Perth, host Bob will show guests the incredible flora around, including different species of eucalyptus trees and wildflowers.

An avid hiker who has taken multiple tour guiding courses and walked the 1,000km Bibbulmun Track from Perth to Albany, Bob's passion and professionalism will ensure that you are in safe hands, regardless if you're an experienced or beginner bushwalker.

Enjoy a pub lunch with Bob in a local cafe or tavern, then head back home for a much-deserved rest.