Travel in 2026 is increasingly focused on scenic experiences, wide landscapes, and immersive nature-based travel. Instead of crowded city centers, travelers are now choosing destinations with mountains, lakes, volcanoes, rainforests, and fjords. Scenic tourism also integrates well with slow travel, photography, adventure activities, and wellness retreats.

Landscape-based travel is ideal for couples, families, adventure lovers, hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, digital nomads, and anyone seeking open spaces. These destinations offer clean air, dramatic views, peaceful environments, and access to outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, wildlife safaris, canyoning, and skiing.

This curated list highlights some of the best landscape places in the world that deliver cinematic scenery, diverse ecosystems, cultural richness, and world-class travel infrastructure. From Costa Rica’s rainforests to Scotland’s highlands and New Zealand’s fjords, these destinations represent nature at its purest.

The blog also includes practical guidance on the best time to visit, stay duration, vegetarian/Jain food suitability, and unique scenic experiences, making it useful for Indian travelers planning ahead for 2026 holidays and honeymoons.

Table of Contents

• Sri Lanka
• Bali (Indonesia)
• New Zealand
• Vietnam
• Azerbaijan
• Scotland
• Austria
• Costa Rica
• Final Verdict
• FAQs 

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a compact island nation in the Indian Ocean known for misty tea valleys, coconut-fringed beaches, rainforest parks, waterfalls, and historic temples. It offers landscapes similar to Bali + Kerala + Thailand combined but within short travel distances. Travelers can explore beaches, highlands, and wildlife zones in a single trip without long internal flights. 

Recommended stay: 7–10 days for a balanced coastal + highlands circuit.

Landscape-Driven Adventure: 

• Ella Train Ride through Tea Estates: The train journey from Kandy to Ella is one of the most scenic rail routes in the world. It winds through misty hills, emerald tea plantations, tunnels, and colonial-era stations, offering endless photo opportunities and slow-travel charm.
• Mini Adam’s Peak Hike: This short and easy hike rewards you with sweeping views of Ella’s valleys and surrounding mountains. It’s ideal for sunrise or sunset and perfect for travelers who want big views without a strenuous climb.
• Waterfalls of Ella & Nuwara Eliya: The central highlands are dotted with dramatic waterfalls like Ravana Falls and Devon Falls. Surrounded by greenery and cool weather, these spots are perfect for nature lovers and scenic stopovers.
• Wildlife Safari in Yala or Udawalawe: Sri Lanka’s national parks offer thrilling safari experiences with chances to spot elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and exotic birds. Yala is famous for leopards, while Udawalawe is best for elephant sightings.
• Tea Gardens of the Central Highlands: Rolling tea estates in Nuwara Eliya and Ella create postcard-perfect landscapes with cooler temperatures. Visitors can tour tea factories, walk through plantations, and enjoy peaceful hill-country views.
• Southern Coast Beaches & Marine Life: The southern coastline features golden beaches, surf-friendly waves, and relaxed coastal towns. Mirissa is especially popular for blue whale watching during the season, adding a rare marine experience.
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Rising dramatically from the jungle, Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. The climb offers panoramic views, ancient frescoes, and a powerful sense of history blended with natural beauty.
• Nine Arch Bridge, Ella: Set deep within lush green hills, the Nine Arch Bridge is a photographer’s dream. Watching a train cross the bridge against the jungle backdrop is one of Sri Lanka’s most memorable scenic moments.

Ready to plan your own Sri Lanka story? Save this itinerary and start building a trip filled with beaches, tea hills, sunsets, and slow moments you’ll remember for years.

Best Time to Visit: Sri Lanka has two monsoon patterns: West & South Coast are best from December to April, perfect for Galle, Mirissa, Bentota, and Yala. The East Coast (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee) shines from May to September, ideal for beaches and surfing. Central highlands (Ella, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya) stay pleasant most of the year, though December to March brings the clearest skies for outdoor travel.

Start planning your Sri Lanka holiday with 30 Sundays.

Bali (Indonesia)

Bali is Indonesia’s most iconic island, offering tropical forests, volcanic peaks, rice terraces, waterfalls, cliffs, and beaches, all within one region. It blends cultural heritage with dramatic natural scenery, making it extremely photogenic and traveler-friendly. Ideal for couples, nature explorers, wellness seekers, and surfers. 

Recommended stay: 6–9 days depending on coastal or highlands focus.

Landscape-Driven Adventure: 

• Rice Terraces of Ubud: Ubud’s emerald rice terraces, especially Tegallalang and Jatiluwih, showcase Bali’s traditional farming landscapes. Early mornings and golden hours are perfect for slow walks, photography, and soaking in the island’s calm, spiritual vibe.
• Mount Batur Volcanic Sunrise Trek: The Mount Batur trek is one of Bali’s most iconic adventures, taking you to a volcano summit just in time for sunrise. From the top, you’ll see clouds below, Mount Agung in the distance, and Lake Batur shimmering in soft morning light.
• Waterfall Circuits in Munduk: Munduk is known for its lush forests and hidden waterfalls like Banyumala and Sekumpul. The region feels cooler and quieter, making it ideal for nature lovers who enjoy jungle walks and scenic freshwater pools.
• Black-Sand Beaches of North & East Bali: Unlike the white sands of the south, Bali’s north and east coast beaches feature dramatic black volcanic sand. These beaches are less crowded and offer peaceful coastal views, dolphin spotting, and quiet sunrise moments.
• Uluwatu Cliffs & Surfing Views: Uluwatu combines towering limestone cliffs, crashing waves, and iconic sea temples. The clifftop views are spectacular at sunset, while the surf breaks below attract surfers and scenic thrill-seekers alike.
• Rugged Cliffs of Nusa Penida: Nusa Penida is famous for its dramatic ocean cliffs and viewpoints like Kelingking Beach. The raw landscapes, turquoise waters, and steep drop-offs create some of Bali’s most photographed and adventurous scenery.
• Hidden Canyons & Jungle Swings: Bali’s interior is filled with secret river canyons and jungle swings overlooking deep valleys. These experiences blend soft adventure with scenic beauty and are popular among couples and photography enthusiasts.
• Adventure Activities for Scenic Thrill-Seekers: Sunrise trekking, canyoning, river rafting, scuba diving, and snorkeling allow travelers to experience Bali’s landscapes actively. Each activity is set against dramatic natural backdrops, making adventure feel immersive and visual.

Best Time to Visit: Bali has a tropical climate with clear seasons. The best time is from May to September for dry weather, cooler nights, and clean ocean visibility for diving/snorkeling. Shoulder months are April & October are great for fewer crowds and cheaper stays. Wet season runs from November to March but landscapes turn emerald green, making it scenic for photographers.

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New Zealand

New Zealand is a dream destination for nature lovers, known for glaciers, fjords, lakes, geothermal valleys, rolling hills, and coastal scenery. Landscapes here often look unreal, some of the world’s most dramatic outdoor locations are found in both islands. It’s also extremely safe, clean, and adventure-oriented. 

Recommended stay: 10–14 days, splitting North & South Island.

Landscape-Driven Adventure: 

• Glacier Valleys of Franz Josef & Fox Glacier (South Island): These dramatic glacier valleys allow travelers to walk on ancient ice, explore crevasses, and experience surreal blue ice landscapes. Glacier heli-hikes and scenic flights make this one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable adventures.
• Milford Sound Fjords (South Island): Milford Sound is famous for towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and deep fjords carved by glaciers. Scenic cruises and kayaking trips offer close-up views of seals, dolphins, and mist-covered peaks.
• Mount Cook National Park Peaks (South Island): Home to New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mount Cook delivers alpine trails, glacier-fed rivers, and panoramic viewpoints. Hiking routes like Hooker Valley Track are ideal for scenic walkers and photographers.
• Turquoise Lakes of Tekapo & Pukaki (South Island): These glacier-fed lakes are known for their vivid blue color and open landscapes. Lake Tekapo is also a top stargazing destination, combining daytime beauty with magical night skies.
• Alpine Drives: Queenstown to Wanaka (South Island): This scenic drive passes mountain ranges, lakes, and golden valleys with plenty of lookout points. It’s one of the most beautiful road trips in New Zealand, perfect for slow travel and photography.
• Geothermal Landscapes of Rotorua (North Island): Rotorua showcases bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and natural hot springs shaped by volcanic activity. Thermal spas add a relaxing element to the region’s dramatic scenery.
• Hobbiton’s Rolling Green Hills (North Island): The Hobbiton Movie Set sits among lush farmland, offering fairy-tale scenery and cinematic charm. It’s a must-visit for fans and scenic travelers alike.
• Lake Taupo & Volcanic Heartland (North Island): Lake Taupo is New Zealand’s largest lake, surrounded by volcanic terrain and scenic walking tracks. The area is ideal for kayaking, fishing, and short hikes with big views.
• Cape Reinga & Black-Sand Beaches (North Island): Cape Reinga features dramatic cliffs where two oceans meet, offering spiritual and scenic appeal. Nearby black-sand beaches provide raw coastal beauty and uncrowded landscapes.
• Adventure Activities with Scenic Backdrops: New Zealand blends adventure with scenery through hiking, skydiving, bungee jumping, glacier walks, heli tours, kayaking, and iconic road trips. Every activity is framed by mountains, lakes, or coastlines, making adventure visually unforgettable.

Best Time to Visit: New Zealand’s most scenic season is from December to March with long daylight, warm temperatures, and open hiking routes. Shoulder seasons (October to November & April to May) offer cheaper rates and beautiful fall colors. June to August is winter, excellent for ski tourism in Queenstown and Wanaka but colder for outdoors.

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Vietnam

Vietnam is one of Asia’s most diverse scenic destinations, with limestone bays, rice terraces, caves, beaches, deltas, and mountain roads. It blends natural beauty with culture and history, making travel meaningful and visually rich. Landscapes change drastically from north to south, allowing travelers to experience multiple environments in one trip. 

Recommended stay: 8–12 days.

Landscape-Driven Adventure: 

• Ha Long Bay Limestone Karsts (Northern Vietnam): Ha Long Bay is famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands rising dramatically from the sea. Kayaking, cruising, and cave exploration allow travelers to experience this UNESCO-listed landscape up close.
• Ninh Binh River Caves & Countryside (Northern Vietnam): Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh features limestone cliffs, rice fields, and calm rivers winding through caves. Boat rides through Trang An and Tam Coc offer peaceful, scenic exploration.
• Sapa’s Terraced Rice Fields (Northern Vietnam): Sapa is known for its layered rice terraces carved into misty mountains. Trekking routes pass through ethnic villages, valleys, and viewpoints, making it ideal for slow, scenic hiking experiences.
• Ha Giang Mountain Loop (Northern Vietnam): The Ha Giang Loop delivers some of Vietnam’s most rugged and dramatic scenery. Motorbiking through deep valleys, sharp mountain passes, and remote villages is a true adventure for landscape lovers.
• Beaches & Lagoons of Da Nang (Central Vietnam): Da Nang offers long sandy beaches backed by mountains and modern city views. It’s a perfect mix of coastal relaxation and urban scenery, with easy access to nearby nature spots.
• Hue’s Rivers & Imperial Landscapes (Central Vietnam): Hue combines historic architecture with scenic river settings and green countryside. Boat rides along the Perfume River add a calm, cultural layer to the adventure experience.
• Hoi An’s Coastal & Countryside Charm (Central Vietnam): Hoi An blends lantern-lit streets with nearby beaches, lagoons, and rice fields. Cycling through villages and sunset walks along the river make it ideal for relaxed scenic exploration.
• Phong Nha Cave Trekking (Central Vietnam): Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park is home to some of the world’s largest caves. Guided cave treks, underground rivers, and jungle trails make it one of Vietnam’s top adventure regions.
• Mekong Delta Floating Life (Southern Vietnam): The Mekong Delta showcases Vietnam’s river-based lifestyle, with floating markets, mangroves, and canal networks. Boat journeys reveal daily life, farming villages, and lush waterways.
• Mangroves & River Landscapes (Southern Vietnam): Southern Vietnam’s mangrove forests and slow-flowing rivers create a completely different landscape. Kayaking and boat rides offer a peaceful way to explore this eco-rich region.

Best Time to Visit: Vietnam spans multiple climate zones. The best time for North (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long) is from October to April for clear skies and cool weather. The central region (Da Nang, Hoi An) is ideal from February to August for beaches. South (Saigon, Mekong Delta) is driest from December to April. If combining all regions, February to April is the most balanced period.

Plan your Vietnam trip without breaking the bank with 30 Sundays.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan sits between Europe and Asia, offering a unique mix of volcanoes, mountains, deserts, and the Caspian Sea coast. Landscapes vary from the snowy Caucasus to mud volcano plains and green valleys. The capital, Baku, blends modern skyscrapers with medieval walls, making the country visually surprising. 

Recommended stay: 6–8 days.

Landscape-Driven Adventure: 

• Greater Caucasus Mountains (Gabala & Shahdag): The Greater Caucasus range offers dramatic alpine scenery with forested slopes, high peaks, and fresh mountain air. Gabala and Shahdag are popular for hiking, cable car rides, and panoramic viewpoints throughout the year.
• Shahdag Winter Ski Landscapes: During winter, Shahdag transforms into Azerbaijan’s premier ski destination. Snow-covered mountains, well-maintained slopes, and modern resorts make it ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy alpine stays.
• Gobustan Mud Volcano Fields: Gobustan is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of mud volcanoes. The crater-like terrain feels otherworldly, offering a unique landscape experience unlike traditional mountains or deserts.
• Sheki’s Green Valleys & Historic Villages: Sheki is surrounded by rolling green hills, river valleys, and forested landscapes. The region blends scenic beauty with heritage, featuring ancient villages, traditional houses, and quiet countryside walks.
• Summer Hiking & Horse Riding Trails: In warmer months, Azerbaijan’s countryside opens up for hiking, horse riding, and village trails. Routes pass through alpine meadows, pastures, and mountain lakes, offering slow and immersive scenic adventures.
• Alpine Meadows & Lake Views: Highland meadows dotted with wildflowers and small lakes create peaceful natural escapes. These landscapes are perfect for photography, picnics, and nature-focused travel away from crowds.
• Ancient Settlements & Scenic Terrain Mix: Azerbaijan’s landscapes combine ancient villages, rocky formations, and lush valleys in close proximity. This contrast makes it ideal for niche scenic tourism and travelers seeking offbeat destinations.

Best Time to Visit: The country experiences four seasons. Best times are from April to June and September to October for hiking and outdoor travel with mild temperatures. Winter from Dec to Feb is great for skiing in Shahdag. Summer from July to August is hot in Baku but pleasant in mountain towns.

Scotland

Scotland is one of Europe’s most atmospheric and scenic destinations, known for dramatic highlands, lochs, castles, islands, cliffs, and misty valleys. The landscapes feel ancient and cinematic, many Hollywood productions film here for that reason. It’s perfect for slow scenic travel, photography, and road trips. 

Recommended stay: 8–10 days.

Landscape-Driven Adventure: 

• Glencoe’s Dramatic Valleys & Peaks: Glencoe is one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, known for its steep mountains, deep valleys, and misty atmosphere. It’s ideal for hiking, photography, and experiencing raw Highland scenery shaped by ancient glaciers.
• Isle of Skye’s Rugged Coastal Beauty: The Isle of Skye offers surreal landscapes with jagged cliffs, fairy pools, rock formations like the Quiraing, and sweeping sea views. It’s perfect for scenic walks, nature lovers, and travelers seeking wild, untouched beauty.
• Loch Ness & Highland Lakes: Loch Ness and surrounding lochs provide calm, moody scenery framed by forests and rolling hills. Boat cruises, lakeside walks, and castle ruins make this region both scenic and steeped in legend.
• Cairngorms National Park: The Cairngorms feature vast mountain plateaus, ancient pine forests, and open moorlands. It’s a year-round destination for hiking, wildlife spotting, skiing in winter, and peaceful nature escapes.
• Coastal Cliffs & Lighthouse Trails: Scotland’s coastline is dotted with dramatic sea cliffs, remote beaches, and historic lighthouses. These areas are excellent for coastal hikes, sunset views, and spotting seals, seabirds, and dolphins.
• North Coast 500 Scenic Drive: The North Coast 500 is one of the world’s most famous road trips, looping through rugged coastlines, mountain passes, and fishing villages. Every stretch offers postcard-worthy landscapes and hidden viewpoints.
• Wildlife Cruises & Island Hopping: Boat trips and ferries allow travelers to explore islands and marine life, including puffins, seals, whales, and dolphins. Island hopping adds a slower, immersive way to experience Scotland’s coastal wilderness.
• Stargazing & Mountain Biking Adventures: Remote Highland areas offer dark skies ideal for stargazing, especially on clear nights. Mountain biking trails wind through forests, glens, and coastal paths, blending adventure with scenic beauty.

Best Time to Visit: Best months are from May to September for warm days, long daylight, and accessible trails. April & October offer fewer tourists and atmospheric landscapes with autumn or spring colors. Winter from November to February is scenic but cold and shorter in daylight, better for indoor castles and whisky trails.

Austria

Austria is a Central European gem famous for alpine scenery, crystal lakes, classical cities, and charming villages. It’s one of Europe’s cleanest and safest destinations with excellent infrastructure. Landscapes feel curated and peaceful, from mountain valleys to lakeside townscapes like Hallstatt. 

Recommended stay: 7–9 days.

Landscape-Driven Adventure: 

• Alpine Hiking & Cycling Trails: The Austrian Alps are crisscrossed with well-marked hiking and cycling routes that pass through alpine meadows, mountain villages, and panoramic viewpoints. These trails are suitable for both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
• Paragliding & Scenic Gondola Rides: Paragliding offers bird’s-eye views of valleys, lakes, and snow-capped peaks, especially in regions like Tyrol and Salzburg. Scenic gondola rides provide effortless access to high-altitude viewpoints without intense physical effort.
• Salzburg Lake District Scenery: The Salzburg Lake District is famous for its crystal-clear lakes framed by dramatic mountain backdrops. Swimming, kayaking, lakeside walks, and photography are popular, especially during summer months.
• Tyrol & Innsbruck Alpine Landscapes: Tyrol and Innsbruck deliver classic alpine scenery with glacier peaks, wide valleys, and charming villages. These areas are ideal for hiking, cable car excursions, and enjoying traditional alpine culture.
• Waterfall Hikes & Wildflower Trails (Summer): During summer, alpine slopes bloom with wildflowers, and melting glaciers create spectacular waterfalls. Gentle walks and nature trails make this season perfect for scenic exploration and relaxed outdoor adventures.
• World-Class Skiing & Winter Sports (Winter): In winter, the Austrian Alps transform into a ski paradise with world-class resorts and snow-covered landscapes. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing combine adventure with breathtaking alpine views.

Best Time to Visit: Summer from June to September is ideal for alpine hiking, lakes, and mountain adventure. December to March is best for skiing and winter sports. April to May & October are shoulder months with mild weather and fewer tourists, though some cable cars may be closed for maintenance.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is Central America’s eco-tourism capital, known for rainforests, volcanoes, waterfalls, cloud forests, and wildlife-packed national parks. It protects over 25% of its land, making nature the core focus of travel. It's ideal for nature photographers, adventure lovers, and wildlife watchers. 

Recommended stay: 7–10 days.

Landscape-Driven Adventure: 

• Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfalls: Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks, surrounded by lava fields, rainforests, and hot springs. Nearby La Fortuna waterfalls offer scenic hikes and refreshing swims set in lush jungle landscapes.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest: Monteverde is famous for its misty cloud forests, hanging bridges, and rich biodiversity. Walking through this ecosystem feels surreal, with moss-covered trees, orchids, and frequent sightings of birds and small wildlife.
• Manuel Antonio Beaches & National Park: Manuel Antonio combines white-sand beaches with dense coastal rainforest. Travelers can relax by the ocean while spotting monkeys, sloths, and iguanas along scenic jungle trails.
• Tortuguero Canals & Wetlands: Tortuguero is a maze of canals, lagoons, and mangroves best explored by boat. It’s known for wildlife viewing, especially turtles, birds, caimans, and river life in a peaceful jungle setting.
• Wildlife-Rich Rainforests: Costa Rica’s dense jungles are home to sloths, howler monkeys, toucans, iguanas, and vibrant tropical birds. Wildlife encounters happen naturally during hikes, boat rides, and even near lodges.
• High-Adrenaline Nature Adventures: Adventure seekers can enjoy ziplining above forest canopies, canyoning down waterfalls, white-water rafting, surfing on Pacific beaches, and guided night jungle walks. These activities blend thrill with unforgettable scenery.

Best Time to Visit: Costa Rica’s dry season runs from December–April, offering the best travel conditions and beach days. The green season from May to November sees more rain but greener forests and fewer crowds. Wildlife varies by season for turtle nesting, July–October is ideal on the Caribbean side.

Final Verdict