ASIA

INTRODUCTION
• The land of oldest civilizations and highest diversity is the continent of Asia.
• This continent is the largest continent in the world in both, in terms of area and population,
constituting nearly one-third of the landmass, lying entirely north of the equator except for some
Southeast Asian islands.
• It is connected to Africa by the Isthmus of Suez and borders Europe as Russia extends between
both the continents separating along the Ural Mountains and across the Caspian Sea.
• The estimated area encompassed by Asia is 44,000,000 square kilometers. It covers 8.8% of the
Earth’s total surface area (or 30% of its land area), and has the largest coastline, at 62,800 km.
• On the one hand there are deserts like Gobi in China, and on other, there are towering
snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas.
• Rivers and lakes are also a plenty.
• Asia is oldest of the landmasses inhabited by humans. It incorporates diverse regions and
peoples than a physical entity of homogeneity.
• Asia differs very widely among and within itself from region to region with regard to
political systems, ethnic groups, cultures, environments, economics and historical ties. Yet
differentiating itself from the other continents with a tag of ‘Eastern world’ or ‘Oriental
world’.
PHYSICAL DIVISIONS
The continent of Asia can be divided into five major physical divisions:
a. The Northern lowlands
b. The Central mountain belt
c. Intermontane plateaus and the southern plateaus
d. The great river valleys and inland water bodies
e. The island groups
f. The Coastal plains
THE NORTHERN LOWLANDS
• The northern lowlands are made of the Siberian plains and the Turan plains.
• The Siberian plain is the greatest continuous lowland in the world to the north of the continent
extending from the east of Ural mountains where it is the widest to the extreme northeastern
coast of Asia blocked by the Yablonoi and Stanavoi ranges where it becomes narrow.
• The lowlands are drained by three major rivers Ob, Yansei and Lena.
THE CENTRAL MOUNTAIN BELT
• The Central mountain belt comprises of fold mountains and plateaus which originate and stretch
out from the Pamir knot located to the south of central Asia.
• To the west of Pamir knot are the Suleiman ranges extending the south west direction and the
Hindukush ranges which run westwards through Tajikistan, Pakistan and Afghanistan to the
border of Iran.
• To the east of Pamir knot lie four mountain ranges Himalayan mountain ranges extending from
North West of India to the east, through Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and Bangladesh to its south.
HIGHEST MOUNTAIN PEAKS
• Mount Everest is in these ranges in Nepal which is the highest peak on earth with 8,848 meters.
• The second range is Karakoram which lies to the north of the Himalayas and extends upto the
north of Pakistan through Jammu and Kashmir in India. Mount K2 in Kashmir in these ranges is
the second highest mountain peak in the world at 8,611 meters.
• The third range is Altai Mountains which extend towards northeastwards from Kunlun mountains
in China and the fourth range is Tien Shan which is the northernmost range extending from the
Pamir knot.
INTERMONTANE PLATEAUS AND THE SOUTHERN
PLATEAUS

• There are two intermontane plateaus between Himalayas and Kunlun lie the Tibet plateau which
is also known as the roof of the world for being the highest plateau in the world
• The second plateau is the Mongolian plateau which is in the central Asia between Altai
mountains in the north and Tien Shan in the west.
THE GREAT RIVER VALLEYS AND INLAND WATER
BODIES
• The valley of Euphrates and Tigris lie in Iraq and Iran and flow into the Persian Gulf. The valley
of Indus lies in Pakistan and Punjab state of India drained by five tributaries of Indus, Rabi,
Jhelum, Beas, Sutlej and Chenab.
• The great valley of Ganga – Brahmaputra in the northern India are formed by rivers Ganga and
Brahmaputra and are drained by hundreds of their tributaries.
• This valley extends from Indus valley in the west to Brahmaputra River in the east.
• The Great plains of China are formed by the three major rivers of China, Huang He, Shang
Jiang and Sikiang.
THE ISLAND GROUPS
• The island groups of Asia are the un-submerged parts of the Fold Mountains.
• The Malay Archipelago is the largest island groups in the world between the Indian Ocean and
the Pacific Ocean.
Some of the important island groups among them are:

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Maldives Islands
Lakshadweep islands
Sumatra
Java
Bali
Timor
Celebes
Philippines
Taiwan
New Guinea
The Coastal plains

•There are large coastal plains with fertile soils found in Asia.

Some of them are:

Eastern coastal plains and Western coastal plains of India
Eastern coastal plains of China
Coastal plains of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia.
CLIMATE
The climates of Asia can broadly be divided into following types:
The Equatorial Climate:
•This climate is found in areas located very close to the equator. The climate is hot and humid all the year
round with excessive rainfall.
•There is no dry season and the rainfall is equally distributed in all months of the year. This type of
climate is also called the climate of three eighties i.e., 80 F ( 27 C ) temperature throughout the year, 80
in (2000 mm) or more total annual rainfall and 80% relative humidity throughout the year.
•This type of climate is found in Indonesia and Malaysia.
The Monsoon Climates:

•This type has a definite dry season and a definite wet season.
•The cooler season is dry while the hot season is very wet indeed. The best example is the
monsoon of the Indian Subcontinent.
•During the summer season, warm and moist winds blow from the Indian Ocean towards India
which brings heavy rain.
•In the cooler months the wind direction is from the land towards the sea so the winds are
drier and bring little or no rain.
•China also experiences this type of climate but the temperatures are cooler than those of
Indian monsoon so it is called China type of monsoon.
The Desert Climates:

•These types of Climates are found in Central Asia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, North-West India and South-
East Pakistan.
•Although the deserts of Central Asia like Gobi and Taklimakan lie outside the tropics, the excessive
heat they face in summer make them similar to the deserts of the lower latitudes.
•All deserts have the same characteristic features: very low rainfall and extremes of temperature.
•The rainfall is generally less than 10 inches (250 mm).
•The difference between the hottest and coldest month is varied.
The Middle Latitude Grassland Climates:

•This type of climate is found in the west of Central Asia where Asia meets with Europe at Ural
Mountains and on the fringes of Mongolia.
•The summers are warm, the winters cold with moderate rainfall falling mostly in the summer
months.
•The summer temperature generally does not rise above 75 F (23 C) but winters are quite cold with
two to three months below 32 F (0 C).
The Cold Temperate Climate:

•This type of climate is found at higher latitudes normally and have moderate to cool summers and
very cold winters.
•Since these area are very far off from the nearby sea it has got extremes of temperature.
•The climate is so extreme that such type of extremes are not found anywhere else in the world.
•Such a climate is found all across the South Siberia and southern edges of it.
The Arctic or Tundra Climate:

•This type of climate occurs in the extreme north of the continent near the North Pole.
•The climate is extremely cold all the year round and no month is above 43 F (6 C) so no plantation
or vegetation can survive.
•Only Eskimos who have adapted themselves to this sort of harsh climate can survive in this climatic
zone. They have special type of houses made of snow locally called igloos to keep them warm.
•Most of the central and northern Siberia has such a climate.
The Mediterranean Climate:

•This type of climate with hot dry summers and cool wet winters occur in Turkey, Syria and along
the coastal areas of Israel and Lebanon.
•The hottest month records 74 F (23 C), the coolest 43 F (6 C).
•Total annual rainfall is 29 in (736 mm) of which 20 inches occurs from November to March and the
summers are very dry indeed.
TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM

Traditional Thai Long-Tail Boat

•Thai long-tail boats are a craft passed from generation to generation, and they are an essential part of
your experience in Thailand. They are an easy form of transportation for both tourists and locals, but
they are also used for cargo and traditionally fishing. Although all boats are built the same, the
decoration and colour of the boat is totally up to the builder, so each long-tail boat has a touch of
personality.
Japan’s Bullet Train
•Initially meant to provide easy and quick transport from the outer regions of Japan to Tokyo, the bullet
train is now a famous tourist attraction. As the fastest trains in the world, these trains reach 200 mph,
and can get you to your destination in less than 2 hours. With so much travel time saved, you’ll have
more than enough time for some spa time in Niigata, famous for its hot springs and resorts, and be
blinded by the bright city lights of Tokyo’s fast paced nightlife in the same day.
Tuk-Tuk In Thailand
•Riding a tuk-tuk is the most daring form of transport in Thailand and probably the whole world. While
tuk-tuks are not for the faint of heart, they are a great experience. The ride is like a quick mini tour
around the crowded streets of Bangkok and you get involved in the local life all while you get to your
destination. In general, tuk-tuks are not the most luxurious mode of transport but riding one is
something that you will remember forever.
Rickshaw In India
•The best way to move around India is by rickshaw. Similar to tuk tuks, this three wheeled vehicle will
take you through the crowded streets and to your destination in a few adrenaline-filled minutes.
Although it’s more likely you will see tourists riding a rickshaw, locals are just as likely to hop on one
of these. Filled with trinkets, accompanied by interesting views along your journey, and high speeds
there is never a dull moment when riding a rickshaw.
Overnight Trains In Thailand
•Nobody wants to spend twelve to fourteen hours on a train, but Thailand made this form of travel a
more pleasant experience. There are different prices so make sure to look for your best option. When
you get hungry you can buy from two to three options of food on the train, and they even have a
vegetarian option. Once you’re full, you can head to your compartment where a train attendant brings
fresh sheets and a pillow and makes the bed for you.
 TOURISM IN EAST ASIA
CHINA, JAPAN AND KOREA
CHINA

Great Wall of China: One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Great Wall attracts millions
of visitors each year.
Forbidden City: Situated in Beijing, it was the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming Dynasty to the
end of the Qing Dynasty and is now a museum.
Terracotta Army: Located in Xi'an, this archaeological site showcases thousands of life-sized
terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China.
The Bund: In Shanghai, the Bund is a waterfront area with colonial-era buildings, modern skyscrapers,
and scenic views of the Huangpu River.
Yangtze River Cruise: Offers stunning scenery along one of China's longest rivers, passing through the
Three Gorges region.
JAPAN
Tokyo: Japan's bustling capital city offers a blend of modernity and tradition, with attractions such as
the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, and the vibrant districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku.
Kyoto: Known for its classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines,
and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto is a cultural hub.
Mount Fuji: Japan's highest peak is an iconic symbol of the country, drawing hikers and nature
enthusiasts from around the world.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Commemorates the atomic bombing of the city during World War
II and promotes peace and reconciliation.
Nara: Famous for its historic temples, including Todai-ji, which houses a giant Buddha statue, and the
friendly deer that roam freely in Nara Park.
KOREA:
Seoul: South Korea's capital city is a dynamic metropolis with a rich history, modern skyscrapers, K-
pop culture, and traditional markets like Namdaemun and Dongdaemun.
Gyeongbokgung Palace: One of South Korea's most iconic landmarks, this grand palace in Seoul
served as the main royal palace during the Joseon Dynasty.
Jeju Island: Known for its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and lush countryside, Jeju Island is a
popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): Offers a glimpse into the tense divide between North and South Korea,
with guided tours available to specific areas along the border.
Bukchon Hanok Village: Located in Seoul, this traditional Korean village preserves the architecture
and culture of the Joseon Dynasty.
 TOURISM IN SOUTH–EAST ASIA
MALAYSIA, SINGAPORE AND THAILAND
MALAYSIA
Cultural Diversity: Malaysia is known for its cultural diversity, with Malay, Chinese, and Indian
influences blending harmoniously. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the UNESCO-listed George
Town in Penang and Malacca City, or experience the vibrant cultural festivals like Hari Raya and Chinese
New Year.
Natural Beauty: Malaysia boasts stunning natural landscapes, including lush rainforests, pristine beaches,
and picturesque islands. Popular destinations include the Perhentian Islands, Langkawi, and the Cameron
Highlands, where visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking, and exploring tea
plantations.
Culinary Delights: Malaysian cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors and influences, with dishes like
nasi lemak, laksa, and satay being popular among locals and tourists alike. Food tourism is a significant
draw, with bustling street food markets and hawker centers offering a taste of Malaysia's culinary heritage.
SINGAPORE
Urban Oasis: Singapore is a modern metropolis known for its futuristic architecture, immaculate gardens, and

vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and

Sentosa Island, or stroll through neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam to experience the

city's multicultural heritage.

Shopping and Dining: Singapore is a shopping and dining paradise, with a plethora of malls, boutiques, and street

markets offering everything from high-end fashion to local handicrafts. The city is also a foodie haven, with a

diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural population, from Michelin-starred restaurants to hawker stalls

serving affordable street food.

Events and Festivals: Singapore hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the

Singapore Grand Prix, Singapore Art Week, and the Singapore Food Festival. The city's calendar is filled with

cultural celebrations, concerts, exhibitions, and sporting events that attract visitors from around the world.
THAILAND
Land of Smiles: Thailand is known for its warm hospitality and friendly locals, earning it the nickname
"Land of Smiles." Visitors can experience the bustling street life of Bangkok, explore ancient temples
like Wat Pho and Wat Arun, or relax on the beautiful beaches of Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi.
Cultural Heritage: Thailand's rich cultural heritage is evident in its historic sites, Buddhist temples,
and traditional festivals. Highlights include the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the temple complex of
Sukhothai, and the annual Songkran water festival, which marks the Thai New Year with lively
celebrations and water fights.
Adventure and Wellness: Thailand offers a wide range of activities for adventure enthusiasts and
wellness seekers alike. From trekking in the northern mountains and diving in the Andaman Sea to yoga
retreats and spa treatments in tranquil island resorts, there's something for everyone seeking relaxation
or adventure.
 TOURISM IN SOUTH ASIA
INDIA, MALDIVES AND SRI LANKA
INDIA

Cultural Diversity: India is renowned for its cultural diversity, with a rich tapestry of traditions,
languages, and cuisines. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal in Agra, the
ancient temples of Varanasi, and the vibrant cities of Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
Historical Sites: India boasts a wealth of historical and archaeological sites, including UNESCO World
Heritage Sites such as the Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Humayun's Tomb in Delhi, as well as the ancient
ruins of Hampi and Khajuraho.
Natural Beauty: India offers diverse landscapes ranging from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas
in the north to the palm-fringed beaches of Goa and Kerala in the south. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore
national parks like Ranthambore, Jim Corbett, and Kaziranga, home to iconic species such as tigers,
elephants, and rhinoceroses.
MALDIVES

Island Paradise: The Maldives is synonymous with luxury and relaxation, offering pristine beaches,
crystal-clear waters, and overwater villas. Visitors can indulge in water sports such as snorkeling,
diving, and sailing, or simply unwind on secluded islands surrounded by turquoise lagoons.
Underwater Attractions: The Maldives is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and world-class
diving sites. Coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, manta rays, and whale sharks attract divers and
snorkelers from around the world to explore the underwater wonders of the Indian Ocean.
Luxury Resorts: The Maldives is home to some of the world's most luxurious resorts and spa retreats,
offering personalized service, gourmet dining, and exclusive amenities. Private island resorts cater to
honeymooners, couples, and discerning travelers seeking privacy and seclusion in paradise.
SRI LANKA

Cultural Heritage: Sri Lanka is steeped in history and culture, with ancient cities, Buddhist temples,
and colonial-era architecture. Visitors can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the ancient
city of Anuradhapura, the rock fortress of Sigiriya, and the sacred city of Kandy.
Natural Wonders: Sri Lanka boasts diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, misty hill stations,
and golden beaches. The island is home to national parks like Yala, Wilpattu, and Udawalawe, where
visitors can spot elephants, leopards, and endemic bird species on safari.
Tea Plantations: Sri Lanka is famous for its tea plantations, particularly in the central highlands around
Nuwara Eliya and Ella. Visitors can tour tea estates, learn about the tea-making process, and sample
freshly brewed Ceylon tea while enjoying panoramic views of rolling hills and verdant valleys.
 TOURISM IN WEST ASIA
SAUDI ARABIA AND IRAQ
SAUDI ARABIA

Historical and Cultural Sites: Saudi Arabia is home to several historical and cultural sites of significance to Islam,
such as Mecca, Medina, and the Prophet's Mosque. The country is also rich in archaeological sites, including the
UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al-Hijr (Madain Saleh), which features Nabatean tombs and ancient ruins.
Religious Tourism: Saudi Arabia attracts millions of Muslim pilgrims each year who come to perform the Hajj
pilgrimage to Mecca, as well as the Umrah pilgrimage. The cities of Mecca and Medina are considered the holiest
sites in Islam and are visited by Muslims from around the world.
Cultural Events: Saudi Arabia has been making efforts to diversify its tourism offerings and has hosted cultural
events such as the Diriyah Season, which includes music festivals, sporting events, and cultural performances. The
country is also investing in developing entertainment and leisure facilities to attract international visitors.
Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative aims to diversify the economy and promote tourism as a key
sector for growth. The government has announced plans to invest in infrastructure, develop tourist destinations, and
ease visa restrictions to encourage tourism.
IRAQ
Historical and Archaeological Sites: Iraq is home to ancient Mesopotamian civilizations and boasts historical sites
such as Babylon, Ur, and Nineveh. These archaeological treasures attract history enthusiasts and scholars
interested in the cradle of civilization.
Religious Tourism: Iraq has several religious sites of significance to Shia Muslims, including the holy cities of
Najaf and Karbala, where the shrines of Imam Ali and Imam Hussein are located. Despite security concerns,
pilgrims from Iraq and around the world visit these sites for religious ceremonies and commemorations.
Cultural Challenges: Iraq has faced challenges related to security, political instability, and infrastructure damage
due to conflicts and wars. These factors have hindered the development of tourism in the country and deterred
potential visitors.
Reconstruction Efforts: Despite the challenges, Iraq is making efforts to rebuild and restore its historical sites and
infrastructure to attract tourists. The government, along with international organizations and NGOs, is involved
in reconstruction projects aimed at preserving Iraq's cultural heritage and promoting tourism.