When a student traveller wants to explore the wonders of the world, Asia immeiately springs to mind. But, with a limited budegt and with so many different countries to see, how do you begin to pick which destination you should visit?

Here are five Asian countries you don’t want to miss.

1. Sri Lanka

There is no doubt this country was devasted by the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami and has experienced it’s fair share of political violence and civil war upheveal. But there are so many hidden treasures in Sri Lanka which make it the vibrant, paradise island it is today. From golden beaches, waterfalls and tea plantations to national parks and colourful festivals, get stuck into a tropical island steeped in history.

Avoid the monsoon seasons by heading out there between December to March and make sure you visit the slick cities of Colombo and Dambulla.

Overall Sri Lanka is slightly more expensive than South Asia but, if you pick your places to visit carefully, you won’t be disappointed. Check out these places to stay.

2. Vietnam

This country is bursting with history and war relics just waiting to be explored - including the fanous Cu Chi Tunnels which kept the Vietnamese alive during the Vietname War. You could cruise through the cannels of the Mekong Delta or visit the Cao Dai Temple. From Dragon Boat tours along the Perfume River or Jeep rides in the jungle, there is one word which epitomises this country - diverse.

One minute you could be bustling your way through Ho Chi Minh City and to see traditional handcrafts, street dancing and, of course, you should take time out to taste the flavours of Vietnam. Check out this Vietnam accomodation guide where you can find loads of cheap hostels and hotels.

3. Nepal

If you’re looking for a challenge - will climbing Mt. Everest suffice? You can lose yourself in this Himalayan region by trekking through the Annapurna Mountain Ranges, which is full of beautiful glaciers and rivers.

Yes this place is a magnet for mountaineers and those seeking adventure but you could also relax during the Holi Festival of Colours - a vibrant Hindu festival in February - spend time shopping in the streets of Thamel or soak up the sites in Kathmandu Valley - the City of Temples.

After you have hang-glided, bungee jumped or river-rafted…you could take a meditation course in Lumbini or Bouddha. In Nepal alomost anything is possible so check out these bargain hostels to guarantee you have enough to spend on all your activities.

4. Singapore

From pampering yourself in one of Asia’s largest outdoor spas to trying dishes such as deep fried scorpians or diving with sharks, Singapore is an up and coming, wealthy cosmopolitan island which should not be overlooked.

Singapore is full of lush botanical gardens, Chinatown heritage and if you are looking for cheap electronics, this is the place to go to by far!

So wander down Haji Lane or the Hawker Centres in the daytime or even head to the centre of the island to spot monkeys swinging in the large areas of reserved forest. And, at night, you can dance until the early hours in one of Singapore’s stylish and colourful clubs and pubs.

Check out these reviews from Singapore travellers who can’t seem to get enough of the place!

5. Japan

From ancient puppet theatres and Sumo wrestling matches to Tokyo’s Imperial Palace and firewalking ceremonies- the only problem you will have while visiting Japan is running out of time because there is so much to see and do.

In Japan you can eat fish for breakfast everyday or take a communal bath in water from hot springs, and if city life starts to overwhelm you, why not escape to the small island of Yakushima.

Check out these reviews from people who have experienced many of Japan’s top attractions in cities such as Kyoto and Nagasaki.

Find good value accommodation in Japan here.

Image from koflerdaniel’s photostream