Best theme parks in Asia for the greatest thrills

Theme parks – they open us to a whole new world of wonder, help us conquer our fears and it is also a place where the most epic memories are made. Calling all thrill-seekers who need a fix of adrenaline, or parents who are looking for theme parks to bring your kids to – you don’t have to go far to do so! Here are five theme parks, located in Asia – no further than six hours from Changi Airport – that you can get to for a screaming good time.

1. Sunway Lagoon - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Visitors can explore the theme park’s six different sections – Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, Scream Park, Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon for a wide variety of activities. Photo credit: Sunway Lagoon

From rollercoasters to bungy jumping, get your adrenaline fix at Sunway Lagoon. Photo credit: Sunway Lagoon

Just 11 kilometres from the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Sunway Lagoon is a family-friendly amusement park, waterpark, extreme park, haunted house and mini zoo all rolled into one. It has over 90 attractions with something for all ages and tastes.

What’s the thrill: If you are not afraid of heights, then the Bungy Jump is for you! It’s a 21-metre bungee jump that is made even more thrilling by having jumpers gear up and walk along Malaysia’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge before they can actually take the plunge – making the 21-metre jump feel more like a 2,000-metre one. Are you game?

Pro tip: If you are looking for a locker to store your items, head to the one at the surf beach area. It is usually less crowded as compared to the rest.

Price: Adult passes start from MYR 165 (approx. S$54)
Location: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 6pm
Website: www.sunwaylagoon.com

When in Kuala Lumpur: Nothing screams a quintessential Kuala Lumpur experience more than food, food, food. As a melting pot of heritage and cuisines, KL is a foodie’s dream destination come true with countless restaurants, cafes, and street food offering quality fare at every turn. Here’s a foodie adventure guide across the city.

2. Waterbom Bali – Bali, Indonesia

Boomerang is one of the most popular slides at the theme park! Photo credit: Waterbom Bali

Bali may be known for its beaches, but, if you are looking for an action-packed day out, make a beeline for Waterbom Bali. Located near Kuta and set in a lush tropical garden, this adrenaline-pumping park is often described as an oasis with a side of screams.

What’s the thrill: If you want to go on a crazy ride but dare not do it alone, grab a partner and head towards the teal-coloured water slide – Boomerang. This two-seater water ride promises an almost free-fall drop of 20 metres at a wild speed of 70km/hr.

Pro tip: Book a private hang out spot at one of the park’s gazebos for the entire day. With cushioned seats and a safe for your valuables, it is almost like having a mini villa during your time there.

Price: Adult passes start from IDR150,000 (approx. S$15)
Location: Jl. Kartika Plaza Tuban, Kuta - Bali 80361 Indonesia
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am – 6pm
Website: www.waterbom-bali.com

When in Bali: Undoubtedly, Bali is one of the world’s best holiday destinations. From its amazing Indonesian cuisine to happening beach clubs along pristine beaches and rich culture – it’s easy to see why. And there’s always something for everyone – be it a sun-splashed beach and/or surfing trip, culture, spa and yoga retreat or simply exploring nature at its best.

3. Cartoon Network Amazone – Pattaya, Thailand

This theme park is the world’s first Cartoon Network themed waterpark featuring over 20 LIVE shows daily. Photo credit: Cartoon Network Amazone

A Cartoon Network themed waterpark? Oh, what a dream it will be for the kids! Part of the park’s attraction includes 10 different entertainment zones with countless opportunities to meet with the cast and characters of Cartoon Network – cue your cameras. The park also promises plenty of thrills and spills with its exciting water attractions, making it a perfect place for families.

What’s the thrill: Water slide enthusiasts will tell you that the gravity-defying Goop Loop is not to be missed. This surprise slide features a 12-metre free-fall drop which generates enough g-force to spin you around at 360 degrees, literally turning your whole world upside down. And, before you know it, you are at the bottom of the slide within a few seconds and the ride is over. What a rush!

Pro tip: To avoid missing the Live Shows and Meet and Greets, look for the schedule at the ticket counters or online and plan your day accordingly.

Price: Adult passes start from THB1,890 (approx. S$85)
Location: 888 Moo 8 Najomtien, Chonburi, Thailand 20250
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 6pm
Website: www.cartoonnetworkamazone.com

When in Pattaya: Widely known for its nightlife and parties, Pattaya is also home to beautiful sunny beaches, stunning temples and so much more. Take a trip to the Four Regions Floating Market to see farmers and fishermen in boats as they float along the water while offering a variety of fresh produce, flowers and more. Also, check out the Sanctuary of Truth – an intricately carved building designed as a place to go for self-reflection.

4. Shanghai Disneyland – Shanghai, China

Riders on the TRON Lightcycle Power Run are placed in an aerodynamic motorcycle position, allowing them to fully experience the high speeds and be exposed to various elements of the ride. Photo credit: Insider.com

With the Shanghai park being one of Disney’s latest additions, visiting this park is like entering version 2.0 of Disneyland – with incredible technology-advanced rides, spectacular shows and gleaming attractions.

What’s the thrill: One of the most talked-about rides is the TRON Lightcycle Power Run, which is modeled after the 2019 film, Tron: Legacy. The launch of this ride is really fast, reaching speeds of over 95 km/h. What takes this ride to the next level is its multisensory elements of pulsing music, lights and 3D graphics that add to the whole experience.

Pro tip: Download the Disneyland app before you head down. From buying tickets to finding information about attractions and waiting times – you can do almost everything with it.

Price: Adult passes start from RMB 399 (approx. S$77)
Location: China, Shanghai Shi, Pudong, 川沙新镇, Huangzhao Rd, No. 310
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am – 8pm
Website: www.shanghaidisneyresort.com

When in Shanghai: A metropolitan wonder, Shanghai is cosmopolitan yet cultural – with its charming alleyways and towering skyscrapers. Home to quirky museums and contemporary art, fine-dining restaurants and unique cocktail bars in the Xintiandi district, there’s so much to see and do in Shanghai. Be sure to slurp up some comforting soup dumplings and check out The Bund and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street for some touristy feels. More suggestions here.

5. Universal Studios Singapore – Singapore

Located in Sci-fi City, the dueling roller coaster ride lasts for a total of 90 seconds and delivers excitement through speed, quick stomach-lurching drops, tight turns and inversions.

Ending off this list with an option close to home – if you haven’t had the chance to visit Universal Studios Singapore, you really should! Located on Sentosa Island, Singapore’s Universal Studios houses more than 28 rides, shows, and attractions in seven themed zones, perfect for all ages.

What’s the thrill: Undoubtedly the best thrill ride in the park, the Battlestar Galactica is a dueling roller coaster that stands at 42.5 metres (14 storeys high). The ride features a red Human track which is more family-friendly as you are seated with your feet on the ground. The blue Cylon track is more extreme with multiple inverted loops as you are strapped into the seat and suspended with your feet dangling. The top speed of the ride reaches 90km/h on both tracks, so hang on tight!

Pro tip: When purchasing your ticket, consider getting the Universal Express at S$40 as an add-on if you plan to visit during peak periods (Friday to Saturday, including gazetted public holidays and the months of June and December) to save time waiting for rides. For exclusive discounts off admission tickets, visit Changi Recommends.

Price: Adult passes start from S$79 (or S$69 for Singapore residents)
Location: Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 098269
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 6pm
Website: https://www.rwsentosa.com/en/attractions/universal-studios-singapore/explore

For more things to do and places to go in Singapore, we’ve got you covered here.

The great thing about theme parks is that the idea of fun is not limited to just one type. It is an exhilarating concoction of rollercoasters, amusement, water slides and more – making it the perfect adventure to add to your itinerary when travelling in a group. If you are looking for a theme park holiday, Asia has everything you need.