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Destinations
South Asia & Indian Ocean
Ancient lands that stir the soul, and seas of infinite blue.
Introduction
The profound allure of South Asia and the Indian Ocean
South Asia and the Indian Ocean offer a treasury of experiences that touch the traveller's very soul. Maharaja palaces in Rajasthan, the divine peaks of the Himalayas, Sri Lanka's highland tea plantations, and the crystalline waters of the Maldives. The incomparable allure of this region lies in its ability to unite millennia of history and spirituality with the bliss of an Indian Ocean paradise within a single journey.
A journey through South Asia with NEWT Bespoke promises once-in-a-lifetime emotion. From exclusive access to restricted areas of the Taj Mahal to authentic Ayurvedic retreats at the very source, meditation at Bhutan's hidden monasteries, and the hire of an entire private island in the Maldives, our bespoke arrangements reveal the profound depths of this extraordinary region.
From the golden palaces of Rajasthan to the Himalayan heights of Nepal, from Bhutan's kingdom of happiness to the overwater paradise of the Maldives, we craft an itinerary perfectly aligned with the purpose and spirit of your journey.
Why journey through South Asia with Bespoke
Life-changing spiritual experiences
Authentic Ayurvedic detox programmes in Sri Lanka, spiritual practice at the yoga sanctuaries of Rishikesh, meditation retreats in Bhutan. South Asia stands as the heartland of spiritual traditions spanning thousands of years, and for those who seek profound healing and transformation of body and mind, it is the most meaningful destination on earth.
Majestic nature and luxury in harmony
Mountain lodges commanding views of eight-thousand-metre Himalayan peaks, maharaja palace hotels set amidst the deserts of Rajasthan, and overwater villas in the Maldives. In South Asia, the world's most spectacular natural environments exist in seamless union with the very finest luxury hospitality. Distinguished brands such as Aman, Oberoi, and Taj bring the region's allure to its fullest expression.
A crossroads of civilisation
The Taj Mahal, Sigiriya Rock, Boudhanath Stupa, Tiger's Nest Monastery. South Asia possesses an extraordinary concentration of heritage sites indispensable to the narrative of human history. From the Indus Valley civilisation to the birth of Buddhism and the splendour of the Mughal Empire, an intellectual journey through millennia of civilisation awaits.
Countries
Destinations in this region
India
A land where ancient civilisation endures, India offers palace hotels in Rajasthan once home to maharajas, spiritual practice at the yoga sanctuaries of Rishikesh, and authentic Ayurvedic retreats in Kerala. A private guided tour of the Taj Mahal, the elephant procession at Jaipur's Amber Fort, and the vibrant colours of Holi are among the transcendent experiences that only India can provide.
Recommended stay: 7-14 nights
Best season: October to March
Sri Lanka
Known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka captivates wellness devotees worldwide as the birthplace of Ayurveda. Experience centuries-old healing traditions at an authentic retreat, explore the ancient ruins of Sigiriya Rock, and track leopards on a luxury safari in Yala National Park. The journey through the hill country's tea plantations aboard a heritage railway is an experience not soon forgotten.
Recommended stay: 7-12 nights
Best season: December to March (west coast) / May to September (east coast)
Nepal
Home to the roof of the world, Nepal presents trekking routes commanding views of Everest and Annapurna, the UNESCO World Heritage temple complexes of the Kathmandu Valley, and jungle safaris in Chitwan National Park where adventure and spirituality intertwine. From the mountain resorts of Dhulikhel and Nagarkot, the Himalayan panorama unfolds in breathtaking grandeur, whilst meditation at the sacred Boudhanath Stupa offers a moment of profound stillness. A journey of luxury lodges and unparalleled mountain encounters awaits.
Recommended stay: 5-10 nights
Best season: October to December / March to May
Bhutan
The kingdom that measures prosperity by Gross National Happiness continues to enchant travellers as the world's most mystical destination. The trek to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), perched upon sheer cliffs, a meditation retreat at Amankora, and the warmth of the Bhutanese people may well prove a journey that reshapes one's perspective on life. The nation's policy of limiting visitor numbers preserves its unspoilt beauty.
Recommended stay: 5-8 nights
Best season: March to May / September to November
Maldives
Comprising 1,190 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives epitomises the ultimate private resort experience through its iconic overwater villas. Dive in waters with visibility exceeding fifty metres, dine on a private sandbank under champagne-lit skies, and take a meal in an underwater restaurant surrounded by marine life. Within the exclusive one-island, one-resort concept, absolute tranquillity is assured.
Recommended stay: 4-7 nights
Best season: January to April
Itineraries
Sample itineraries
India: The Golden Route of Rajasthan
Traverse the golden triangle from Delhi through Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur, residing at the finest heritage palace hotels. With a dedicated guide, explore magnificent forts and temples. A private viewing of the Taj Mahal, the elephant procession in Jaipur, and dinner at the lake palace of Udaipur bring the royal culture of India vividly to life.
Sri Lanka: Wellness and Heritage Retreat
From Colombo, journey via the old town of Galle to an Ayurvedic resort on the south coast for an authentic detox programme. Explore the ancient ruins of Sigiriya Rock and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and board the highland railway through the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya. A journey uniting cultural heritage with the deepest renewal of body and mind.
Nepal and Bhutan: Himalayan Odyssey
Depart Kathmandu on a Himalayan mountain flight before settling into a luxury lodge in Pokhara with views of the Annapurna massif. Continue to Bhutan for the Tiger's Nest trek in Paro and an encounter with the traditional culture of Thimphu. A journey of spirituality and adventure through two of the world's most mystical nations.
Experiences
Experiences unique to South Asia
Authentic Ayurveda retreat
In the heartlands of Sri Lanka and Kerala, immerse yourself in authentic Ayurvedic healing traditions spanning thousands of years. Following a consultation with a specialist physician, experience Panchakarma purification, Abhyanga massage, and other time-honoured therapies over seven to fourteen days. A profound detoxification and renewal of body and mind.
Himalayan trekking in luxury
Walk the trekking routes of Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, retiring each evening to a luxury mountain lodge. With a dedicated guide and porters in attendance, experience the grandeur of the Himalayas in safety and comfort. A mountain flight offering close-range views of Everest may also be arranged.
Maldives marine adventure
In Maldivian waters of extraordinary clarity, swim alongside manta rays and whale sharks, snorkel from a private sandbank, and cruise at sunset in search of dolphins. Special dives accompanied by a marine biologist and private picnics on uninhabited islands complete a programme that celebrates the ocean paradise in its entirety.
Rajasthan palace sojourn
Reside in the finest heritage palace hotels, once the homes of maharajas, and step into the lives of Indian royalty. Candlelit dinner at the lake palace of Udaipur, a camel safari and glamping in the Jaisalmer desert, and stargazing at Jaipur's Jantar Mantar observatory. A sensory immersion in India's royal heritage.
Nepal mountain flight
An early-morning flight from Kathmandu offers close-range views of the eight-thousand-metre Himalayan peaks, including Everest, during an approximately one-hour scenic flight. For those without the time to undertake a full trek, this is a remarkable opportunity to witness the majesty of the roof of the world. Upon landing, continue with a private tour of Kathmandu's World Heritage temple complexes.
Travel Tips
Practical travel information
Getting there
Direct flights from Tokyo to Delhi take approximately eight and a half hours. Colombo (Sri Lanka) is reached via Singapore or Bangkok in approximately ten to twelve hours. Kathmandu (Nepal) is most conveniently accessed via Bangkok or Delhi. Bhutan is served by Druk Air via Bangkok or Delhi, and the Maldives are reached via Singapore in approximately ten hours.
Visa requirements
India requires an e-Visa (up to 60 days) obtained in advance. Sri Lanka requires an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). Nepal offers visa on arrival (30 or 90 days). Bhutan requires mandatory pre-arrangement through a registered travel agency; we handle all procedures on your behalf. The Maldives permits visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days.
Currency and payment
Credit cards are widely accepted at luxury resorts in the Maldives. In Indian cities and luxury hotels, card payments are increasingly common, though cash remains necessary in rural areas. Local currency is recommended for Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan. We provide full support for currency exchange throughout your journey.
Climate overview
Northern India and Nepal are at their best during the dry season from October to March. Sri Lanka's west coast enjoys optimal conditions from December to March, the east coast from May to September. The Maldives are most tranquil from January to April, after the northeast monsoon departs. Bhutan is at its finest during the rhododendron season of spring (March to May) and the clear skies of autumn (September to November).
Health and safety
Pre-travel vaccinations (hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, among others) are recommended. Antimalarial medication is advisable for certain areas of India and Nepal. For those undertaking high-altitude trekking, we provide guidance on altitude sickness prevention. A pre-departure consultation at our partnered travel health clinic and a 24-hour local emergency contact line are provided.
Best Season
Best Time to Visit
Oct — Dec
Post-Monsoon — The Land Renewed
The monsoon has departed and South Asia enters its finest season for travel. In northern India, Rajasthan's dry, agreeable climate bathes Jaipur's Amber Fort and Udaipur's lake palaces in golden light. The Taj Mahal, seen floating in the early-morning mist, is at its most ethereal during these months — an experience that remains with one for a lifetime. Sri Lanka's west coast enters its dry season from December, making it ideal for exploring the old quarter of Galle and ascending Sigiriya Rock. In Nepal, the Himalayan panorama achieves crystalline clarity, revealing the majestic profiles of Everest and Annapurna along the trekking routes. The Diwali festival in November illuminates all of India with countless oil lamps, offering the chance to witness one of humanity's most enchanting celebrations.
- •The Taj Mahal at its most ethereal in the morning mist
- •Nepal's Himalayan trekking with crystal-clear panoramas
- •Diwali — India's magnificent festival of light
Jan — Mar
Dry Season Peak — An Invitation to Paradise
The Maldives achieves its most resplendent form during these months. With the northeast monsoon departed, ocean visibility may exceed fifty metres, and the probability of encountering manta rays and whale sharks reaches its annual zenith — a season of unparalleled joy for diving enthusiasts. Stargazing from one's overwater villa, with no light pollution to dim the heavens, is a luxury exclusive to the dry months. In Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival (February) and the exuberant Holi festival (March) offer a kaleidoscope of cultural experience. Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle — Kandy, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa — may be toured in perfect comfort, and the February Perahera festival in Kandy, with its procession of caparisoned elephants, is a spectacle of unforgettable grandeur. In Bhutan, the rare black-necked crane descends to the Phobjikha Valley, a pilgrimage for birdwatchers the world over.
- •Maldives diving at peak visibility with manta rays and whale sharks
- •India's Holi festival — a kaleidoscope of colour and joy
- •Bhutan's rare black-necked cranes in the Phobjikha Valley
Apr — Jun
Spring to Early Summer — Flowers and Devotion
Bhutan and Nepal enter their most beautiful season. In Bhutan, rhododendrons set entire valleys ablaze in shades of scarlet and pink, and the trekking route to Tiger's Nest monastery is adorned with wildflowers at every turn. The Paro Tsechu festival in spring stages magnificent traditional cham masked dances, offering an intimate encounter with the spiritual heart of Bhutanese culture. In Nepal, Himalayan visibility is at its finest, presenting ideal conditions for treks toward Annapurna Base Camp and Everest. In southern India, Kerala is the home of Ayurveda, and the pre-monsoon climate provides ideal conditions for an authentic Panchakarma purification retreat that restores body and spirit alike. Sri Lanka's east coast enters its dry season, and the tranquil beach resorts of Trincomalee offer a serene alternative far from the well-trodden trail.
- •Bhutan's rhododendron valleys and Paro Tsechu festival
- •Nepal's Annapurna trek in optimal Himalayan conditions
- •Kerala's authentic Ayurvedic Panchakarma retreat
Jul — Sep
Monsoon — Verdant Grace and Quiet Luxury
The monsoon season, shunned by the casual visitor, is precisely the time when the discerning traveller discovers South Asia's most exclusive rewards. The southern atolls of the Maldives remain relatively calm during these months, and the season brings premier surfing conditions to the outer reefs. In Kerala, the monsoon rains create the optimal humidity for Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapy, and practitioners regard this as the most auspicious period for deep purification. Sri Lanka's east coast — Trincomalee and Passikudah — enjoys the heart of its dry season, offering the luxury of near-deserted beaches. The high Himalayan regions of Ladakh and Spiti in northern India lie beyond the monsoon's reach, and their pristine air and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries provide a journey of rare spiritual depth through landscapes that seem to belong to another world entirely.
- •Maldives southern atoll premium surfing experience
- •Kerala's monsoon-season authentic Panchakarma therapy
- •Ladakh and Spiti's Tibetan Buddhist culture and high-altitude trekking
Testimonial
Client testimonial
“
Our ten-day journey through Rajasthan was the most profoundly moving experience of my life. Waking in a maharaja's palace hotel in Jaipur, a candlelit dinner at the lake palace of Udaipur, and the moment I stood before the Taj Mahal, alone in the morning mist. Every element was orchestrated with such precision by our concierge that, even amidst the bustle of India, we never once felt a moment of stress. Next time, I wish to attempt a Himalayan trek in Nepal.
H.Y. (Couple in their 60s, Nagoya)
India, Rajasthan, 10 days
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