Amanda LimIf the past few weeks in Singapore have felt unbearably hot, you’re not alone, and air-conditioning can only do so much. I’m sure all of us are dreaming of being in a cool weather retreat where we’ll finally have a reason to wear that cosy jumper.
From misty mountains to breezy highlands, here are 11 destinations near Singapore with refreshing climates and plenty of charm.
Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
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Temperature: 15–22°C year-round
A common favourite among Singaporeans, Cameron Highlands is nestled in the Titiwangsa Mountains, around 1,500 metres above sea level.
Expect fresh mountain air, rolling tea plantations, strawberry farms, and cool misty mornings. Visit the iconic BOH Tea Estate for sweeping views, wander through the otherworldly Mossy Forest, or pick your own strawberries at one of the many farms. Weekends also bring vibrant night markets selling hot snacks perfect for the weather.
Kundasang, Malaysia
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Temperature: Around 20°C year-round
Often called the “New Zealand of Sabah”, Kundasang is set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kinabalu. Its cool temperatures, rolling green fields, and grazing cows at the Desa Dairy Farm make it feel almost pastoral.
The surrounding hills are covered in cabbage farms and wildflowers, and nearby Kinabalu Park offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in Malaysia.
Bukit Tinggi, Malaysia
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Temperature: 22–25°C
For a whimsical highland escape, Bukit Tinggi charms with its Colmar Tropicale resort, a replica of a 16th-century French village. Cobbled streets, pastel buildings and al fresco cafes give it a distinctly European feel. The nearby Japanese Village, botanical gardens and forest trails offer tranquil corners to unwind amid nature.
Da Lat, Vietnam
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Temperature: 10–20°C
Set in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat’s spring-like climate is just the beginning of its allure. You’ll find pine-covered hills, flower farms, misty lakes, and French colonial villas.
Activities range from visiting waterfalls and night markets to taking a cable car to Truc Lam Monastery with panoramic views over Tuyen Lam Lake.
Sapa, Vietnam
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Temperature: 11–17°C (coolest from November to February)
High up in the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range, Sapa is known for its cool air, stunning terraced rice fields, and rich ethnic cultures.
Trekkers can explore H’mong and Dao villages, while cable car rides up Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, offer spectacular vistas. In winter, frost and snow are even possible.
Alishan, Taiwan
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Temperature: 6–16°C (December to February)
Alishan is a scenic mountainous area famed for its sunrise view from Zhushan, which draws travellers before dawn. The Alishan Forest Railway adds old-world charm, winding through cedar forests and misty peaks.
During spring, cherry blossoms bloom across the area, making it one of Taiwan’s prettiest escapes.
Baguio, Philippines
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Temperature: 13–21°C (coolest in January and February)
Called the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”, Baguio is dotted with pine trees, parks, and art spaces. Burnham Park is perfect for boat rides and picnics, while Camp John Hay and BenCab Museum offer a dose of local history and culture.
There’s also the nearby mountain town of Sagada to explore. Don’t miss the strawberries and ube jams from the market.
Tagaytay, Philippines
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Temperature: 18–24°C
Just a short drive from Manila, Tagaytay is a popular escape with cool breezes and volcanic views. Perched on a ridge, it overlooks the picturesque Taal Lake and Volcano.
The cooler climate makes it perfect for garden cafes, scenic brunch spots and even a leisurely ride on the Sky Ranch Ferris wheel.
Bandung, Indonesia
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Temperature: 17–24°C
Surrounded by volcanoes and tea plantations, Bandung is a cool retreat in West Java that blends colonial heritage with trendy boutiques and coffee culture. Walk down the famous Braga street lined with art deco buildings and buzzing cafes, and soak in the vibe.
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Beyond outlet malls, explore Kawah Putih (a turquoise volcanic lake), tea estates in Ciwidey, and hot springs in Lembang.
Mount Bromo, Indonesia
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Temperature: 5–18°C (especially cold at dawn)
One of Southeast Asia’s most iconic volcanoes, Mount Bromo, delivers otherworldly sunrises above a sea of clouds. Most visitors stay overnight in nearby Cemoro Lawang, then wake up early for a jeep tour to the viewpoint.
The volcano’s surreal landscape and chilly temperatures make for an unforgettable experience, just remember to dress in layers!
Stay cool
Whether you’re after a laid-back highland escape or an alpine trekking adventure, these destinations prove that you don’t have to go far to find cool weather near Singapore. With a little planning and the right fit, your next chilly getaway is closer than you think.
