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19 June 2025
Follow in the footsteps of Chinese explorer, Zheng He
|Born in 1371 in Kunyang – a humble town in the Yunnan province of Southern China – it’s fair to say that Chinese explorer, Zheng He, one of China’s most heralded heroes, came from humble beginnings.
Follow in the footsteps of Chinese explorer, Zheng He
Today, Zheng He is known throughout China and the world as a true trailblazer; a mariner who directed huge fleets on daring expeditions across the globe in order to forge links with the wider world. As he journeyed from country to country and port to port, Zheng He gifted gold, porcelain and silks to world leaders, reporting back to China’s ruling elite with new technologies and ideas in return. Over time he became an ambassador of Chinese culture and treasures, and went down in history for his contribution to China’s status as a world power.
The landmark locations which illustrate Zheng He’s life reach far and wide – from the region of his birth in China to the many exotic countries frequented by his fleet on their voyages. Between 1405 and 1433 the so called ‘treasure fleet’ of ships undertook their epic pursuits under fluttering red sails. The first three traveled as far as Calicut in Kerala, and then subsequent expeditions reached even further – to the Persian Gulf and even to East Africa.
To follow in the footsteps of Chinese explorer Zheng is to embark on a journey to make any world explorer envious. Read on to discover the enchanting destinations which took him across Asia and the Middle East to Africa.
Yunnan, China: Birthplace of Chinese explorer, Zheng He
Chinese explorer, Zheng He’s adventure began in Yunnan – his birth place. This green and historic province holds sprawling rice terraces, the sleepy Mekong River and the snow-capped mountains of Tibet within its borders, and is a land of diversity; rife with adventure for travelers. Zheng He’s legacy is strong in China – there is now a museum dedicated to his story in Nanjing, near his memorial tomb.
Best time to visit: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild temperatures and sunny days. Summers can be rainy, while winters are cold in the mountains.
Travel tips: Kunming, known as the “Spring City,” is a must-visit. Take a day trip to the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest or venture further to the culturally rich city of Lijiang.
Champa, Vietnam – A key stop on the treasure fleet’s route
The ancient kingdom of Champa was often an early stop on the expeditions of the treasure fleet. It was located in what is now the central and southern regions of Vietnam. With the buzzing capital of Ho Chi Minh City, the leafy channels of the Mekong Delta and the beautiful Con Dao islands making up just some of the hotspots here, paying homage to Zheng He’s voyage has never been more intoxicating. Remnants of the Cham Kingdom still survive at My Son in central Vietnam; an extensive range of ruined temples built by Champa kings (4th-13th centuries).
Best time to visit: February to April and August to October offer warm, dry weather. The summer months (May–July) can be hot and humid.
Travel tips: The My Son Sanctuary is best visited in the early morning to beat the crowds and heat. If you’re extending your trip, explore the ancient town of Hoi An or cruise the Mekong Delta.
Java and Sumatra, Indonesia – Cultural treasures and wildlife watching
Documents reveal that as well as aiming to bring the populace of Java and Sumatra under Ming power, Zheng He’s treasure fleets delivered plentiful gifts and favors to the country’s rulers in return for horses. Today, Java is a veritable treasure chest of culture, full of patchwork fields, divine handicrafts and ancient temples. In comparison, Sumatra is a vast island of sheer Indonesian wilderness, thriving with wildlife. Indonesia’s variety is best tackled with the advice of a local expert, who can help you make the most of your time.
Best time to visit: May to September is the dry season, which is best for outdoor adventures. The rainy season (November to March) is more difficult to get around.
Travel tips: Borobudur and Prambanan temples are iconic historical sites best seen at sunrise. Bukit Lawang’s dense jungles and rugged landscapes are home to incredible wildlife, including endangered orangutans.
Malacca, Malaysia – The maritime gateway of Southeast Asia
Also known as Melaka, this seafaring city where Chinese explorer, Zheng He, stopped is one of the gems of Malaysia, with attractive colonial architecture and a fascinating history. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and merits a leisurely visit. It is also part way between the capital and the southern part of the peninsular, so it’s an easy stop-off on a Malaysian itinerary.
Best time to visit: November to March brings cooler weather and fewer tourists. The city gets humid year-round, but afternoon showers are common in April–October.
Travel tips: Malacca is a walkable city, but rickshaws are a fun way to get around. Try Nyonya cuisine, which is a fusion of Chinese and Malay flavors. Or, head to the bustling night market on Jonker Street on weekends to sample local street food.
Sri Lanka – The island of tea plantations and elephants
Initially, the treasure fleets did not find a friendly welcome in what was, at the time, Ceylon. But as testament to the successful relationship built between Ceylon and China, Chinese explorer, Zheng He brought a trilingual inscription in stone on his third visit. It is now housed in the National Museum, Colombo. Visit during a tour of magical Sri Lanka; a green isle glistening with tea plantations, water-splashed elephants and divine coastline.
Best time to visit: Visit in December to March for the west and south coasts and May to September for the east coast. Avoid the April and October monsoons.
Travel tips: Colombo’s National Museum houses the stone inscription left by Zheng He. Visit Galle for a coastal retreat, another historic trading port with colonial architecture and beaches.
Calicut, India – The spice port that welcomed Zheng He
The end point of the first three of Zheng He’s voyages was Calicut, or Kozhikode, on the Malabar coast of Kerala, India. This tropical coastal region is known by many as its most beautiful state, wonderfully serene in comparison to the country. If you are keen to explore Kerala in depth, have a look at the Classic Kerala tour run by our local partners in India.
Best time to visit: October to March offers pleasant weather, while April and May are extremely hot. The monsoon season (June–September) sees heavy rainfall.
Travel tips: Calicut’s spice markets are a must-visit with fragrant cardamom once traded by merchants. Take a boat tour through Kerala’s backwaters to spot kingfishers, traditional fishing nets, and local villages.
Dhofar, Oman – The Arabian peninsula’s link to the treasure fleet
Little is known about the fleet’s visits to the Dhofar region of Oman, but there is documentation supporting the theory that on his fifth voyage, part of the fleet made harbor here. Oman is inhabited with calm, welcoming people; a surprising destination rich in regal architecture, natural scenery and cultural wonders.
Best time to visit: October to April offers comfortable weather for exploring. June to September is the monsoon season.
Travel tips: Rent a car for easy access to Salalah’s waterfalls and frankincense trails. Dress modestly and be mindful of cultural norms.
Lamu, Kenya – The African coast’s connection to Zheng He’s legacy
Reportedly backed up by DNA evidence, some survivors of one of Zheng He’s ships made it as far as Kenya, and were allowed to stay and marry into the local population. Lamu and Malindi are the likely locations of the 15th century shipwreck that came all the way from China. To see the best of Kenya your way, work with our local partners to witness the world’s most iconic wildlife grace the natural stage of the Maasai Mara.
Best time to visit: December to March and July to October offer the best weather, with warm days and minimal rain. The rainy season (April–June) can bring travel disruptions.
Travel tips: Lamu is car-free, but you can get around by boat or donkey. The old town’s Swahili architecture and local markets are highlights.
Make it happen
Feeling inspired by the epic journeys of Chinese explorer Zheng He? Click the links throughout the text to learn more about the destinations he once sailed to—and connect with local experts who can help plan your own unforgettable adventure.
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