1. Railay & Hat Ton Sai, Thailand

Climbing in Thailand’s Krabi Province is the stuff of lore, 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 comes at the cost of crowds, with guided groups lining up to wait their turn on the easier sections during high season; but more experienced climbers will be able to escape the masses and enjoy classic routes while ascending to epic views over the Andaman Sea.

For newbies, there are plenty of established guide companies in the area offering gear and lessons, including Real Rocks and Krabi Rock Climbing. Best time to go: December–April.

2. Huu Lung, Vietnam

Climbing the rugged karst formations in Huu Lung, Vietnam, a remote village roughly 110km outside of bustling Hanoi, is still very much under the radar, but it won’t stay that way for long. Currently, the area boasts over 100 routes with plenty of tufa, pockets, and overhangs that can challenge all abilities.

The surrounding community remains very rural and you’ll often have to cut across private lands to reach the crags, so it’s advised to contact VietClimb, the climbing gym based in Hanoi that’s developing the area, for detailed access information. It also provides guided trips and gear rentals. Best time to go: November–April.

3. Tha Khaek, Laos

Located in the thick of the Laotian jungle, the otherworldly landscapes of Tha Khaek (sometimes spelled Thakhek) has over 400 bolted routes, including several multi-pitches.

Beginners will find guides and gear rentals available at Green Climbers Home, which is sited directly in the valley below the towering limestone walls. This laid back climber’s camp is complete with rustic bamboo bungalows, dorm rooms, and tents, allowing you to wake up just a few steps away from the crag each morning.

The climbing itself varies quite a bit, from steep overhangs with stalactites in caves to slab climbing up pitches that are less than vertical. Best time to go: December–March.

4. Cantabaco, the Philippines

In addition to picturesque beaches and quality diving, the island of Cebu also boasts 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 that demand precise technique. Gear rentals, guides, and guidebooks are best procured by contacting the Cebu Rock Climbing Community. 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 hit list. While you’re there, you might as well tie in and scale the walls surrounding the religious complex for a truly unique urban climbing experience.

The Damai Wall on the north side is a popular option for beginners with over 100 routes maintained by Gua Damai Extreme Park, which offers guiding services and rental equipment. There are several other areas, including Nyamuk Wall, where you’re likely to find the local climbing community congregating on the weekends. Best time to go: December–February.

According to lonelyplanet.com