Southeast Asia has a delightful richness of waterways to rival any region. Staying aboard a traditional cruise for a few nights is the most appealing way to visit these unique places, yet if you’re short on time or prefer to stay on land overnight, the options for day trips are still plentiful. To observe these atmospheric wonders directly, traveling on some of Asia’s most exciting transportation is a noteworthy approach to spending a morning, afternoon or even a full day. 

1. Inle Lake, Myanmar 

From aboard your private wooden boat on Inle Lake, gaze at the spectacular scenery and observe the high skillfulness of the local fishermen’s leg-rowing technique to propel them around the lake. The Intha people live in unique man-made villages built on stilts directly upon the lake, working in their floating gardens of natural vegetation condensed into neat lanes.

The perfect way to stretch your legs is to visit a traditional lotus and silk weaving village, to watch in amazement at the full process of creating homemade bright and beautiful textiles.

2. Kinabatangan River, Malaysia

Delve deep into the protected rainforest as you cruise along the longest river in Borneo, the third-largest island in the world. With binoculars in hand and the trained eye of your guide, explore the magnificent foliage and riverbanks for rare and familiar wildlife and flora.

Observe the daily life of the proboscis monkey and orangutan, both endemic to the island, as they live alongside lively long-tailed macaques, predatory crocodiles and countless species of exotic birds. For the extremely fortunate onlookers, you may even witness a wild pygmy elephant emerging from the wondrous riverine forest.

3. The Klongs, Thailand

Traversing the pulsating beat of Bangkok is exhilarating, yet at times can be relentless. Ride the intertwined canals on a traditional boat – known locally as klongs, certain to relax and impress in equal measures. A tranquil pace of life appears, as the heart of the city is revealed. Leaving Chao Phraya (River of the Kings) behind to observe hidden vegetable markets, cannonballing children and an altogether different life emerging from this great metropolis.

4. Mekong Delta, Vietnam

A two-hour drive south of Ho Chi Minh City, and a place where daily life is purely conducted on water. The vast expanse of the Mekong Delta is integral to the people of both Vietnam and neighboring Cambodia. Enjoy a day traveling along the backwaters, visiting lively fruit and vegetable markets, and local villages and ultimately learning about the importance of this region to the rest of the country. Don’t miss out on tasting the delectable homemade treats on offers such as Keo Dua (coconut candy) and Banh Xeo (rice pancakes).

5. Flores Island Hopping, Indonesia 

An 80-minute flight from Bali, the town of Labuan Bajo is a superb base to discover the other fascinating and bucolic islands of Flores. A full day excursion visiting some of these magnificent land masses will captivate you with untouched scenery and sights of its prodigious inhabitant, the Komodo dragon.

Cruise on the blue tropical waters, past endless barren islands, under the glistening Indonesian sunshine, before disembarking on Rinca and Komodo Islands, the best in the region. With the valued assistance of a local ranger, explore the wooded areas for dragons and other wildlife, before returning to Labuan Bajo aboard your boat.

According to transindus.co.uk