The world is packed with interesting, exhilarating, and inspiring places for climbing if you’re looking for rock climbing adventures. However, one area of the globe is more beautiful and diverse than any other region. The Asia Pacific region includes tropical beaches, the mighty Himalayas, jungle crags, and so much more.
This area doesn’t get as much attention as other regions in the world, which leaves it wide open for anyone who wants to discover new places, make new routes, and first ascents.
Check out the following destinations if you’re ready to take your rock climbing to another level.
1. Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur
If you find yourself in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, you have to put the temples and shrines at Batu Caves on your hit list. But, at the same time, why not tie in and scale the walls surrounding the religious complex?
On the north side is The Damai Wall which is popular for beginners. There are over 100 routes that are carefully maintained by Gua Damai Extreme Park. On offer are guiding services and rental equipment.
Nyamuk Wall is another area where you’re likely to find a helpful climbing community congregating on the weekends.
2. Cantabaco, the Philippines
The island of Cebu boasts some of the best rock climbing in the Philippines, as well as quality diving and picturesque beaches.
Take yourself to the striking limestone crag above the village of Cantabaco, and you’ll find over 60 routes on the high-quality rock. In addition, there are sections full of tufa and jugs that are perfect for novices to hone their skills. The tiny crimps and pockets, however, demand more precise technique.
Contact the Cebu Rock Climbing Community if you need guides, guidebooks, or gear rentals.
3. Railay & Hat Ton Sai, Thailand
Hat Ton Sai and adjacent Railay are stunning places to climb in Thailand Krabi Province. You’ll find massive cliffs rising over white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
However, one downside comes with such beauty, and that’s the crowds you’ll have to deal with, especially during high season. If you’re a beginner, you’ll have to wait your turn for a guided group. Whereas more experienced climbers will enjoy some of the classic routes away from the crowds with views over the Andaman Sea.
4. Huu Lung, Vietnam
Huu Lung is located north of Hanoi. It’s a stunning, peaceful climbing area with multi and single-pitch climbing routes. VietClimb has recently bolted many of the routes, and you can enjoy long and picturesque climbs.
A tip is to bring enough quickdraws for each climb and count how many you need before climbing. However, deep water solo climbing at Halong Bay, a major tourist attraction, is something many climbers aspire to.
5. Tha Khaek, Laos
Thakhek is in the thick of the Laotian jungle and has an otherworldly feel to it. There are over 400 bolted routes and several multi-pitches.
If you’re a beginner, head for Green Climbers Home, where you’ll find guides and gear rentals available. It’s a laid-back climber’s camp in the valley below the towering limestone walls. You’re able to wake up just a few steps away from the crags every morning in one of the rustic bamboo bungalows, tents, or dorm rooms.
6. Ko Phi Phi, Thailand
Ko Phi Phi is the birthplace of Thai Climbing. Surrounded by the Andean Sea, you’ll find some of the longest multi-pitch climbs with many holds that are massive jugs.
When you’re done with climbing, head out to the gorgeous Maya Beach, made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s movie The Beach.
7. Long Dong, Taiwan
Long Dong is renowned for its sandstone rock formations and stunning coastal views. If you love to feel the sea breeze on your face and hear the crashing waves, this is a beautiful destination.
You have to take a long train ride to get there, plus a bus from Taiwan to Long Dong, Jiufen, but it’s worth it. The area is not overly touristy and is a rustic coastline that’s somewhat remote. While this is a good thing, it might also be an issue as you’ll struggle to find people that speak English.
8. Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
Vietnam has a reputation for some stunning cliff formations, but it comes as a surprise to learn that the climate, rock formations, and scenic draw factors don’t seem to attract climbers from neighboring countries.
Cat Ba Island offers some of the most pristine climbing in Southeast Asia. There’s plenty to keep beginners and experts busy for days.
9. Yangshuo, China
Yangshuo in China is a location that’s often captured on film. One of its most notorious walls is situated at The Moon Hill. This major scenic and iconic climbing spot is a bucket list destination for many climbers.
Rumors have it that there are bottles of alcohol placed along the climb as a reward for those who have made it that far. Pick the right spot to catch one of the best sunrises in the world, and you won’t regret it.
10. Dairy Farm Climbing Reserve/Quarry, Singapore
You might not have thought there would be somewhere for rock climbers in Singapore. Check out Dairy Farm at Bukit Timah Road area, and you’ll find abundant natural trails and rich forestry that’s popular with hikers, bikers, and families with young ones.
You’re advised to check your route carefully before you head out because there are ongoing rock movements due to the Singapore climate that includes rain and sunshine all year round. Loose rock is a common issue, so take care.
There’s so much to see and do if you decide to try rock climbing in the Asia Pacific area that you’ll need to stay longer than a few weeks or plan several trips in your rock climbing calendar.
