Instead of following the same-old route as everyone else or queuing for the “perfect” Insta-shots, you’ll find yourself winding through quiet mountain passes in Sri Lanka’s Knuckles Range, gliding along the backwaters of southern Laos where few travellers roam, or sipping tea in a tribal village deep in northern Vietnam.
These trips are for people with a spirit of adventure – travellers who long to see Asia’s secret sides: her tucked-away treasures and remote communities, where experiencing such an authentic and exclusive slice of the continent feels real and rare.
As ever, every one of our itineraries below can be turned into your own bespoke package.
You’ll travel with local guides who know the land like the back of their hand, bringing it to life through stories and folklore. You’ll stay in wonderful homestays and journey along scenic, serene routes. These holidays will open your eyes up to the unpolished, unpredictable, and utterly unforgettable wonders of Asia.
East Coast
This itinerary idea is perfect if you long to slow down, reconnect, and immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s beauty. You’ll also veer off the beaten track, staying in gorgeous eco-lodges and homely retreats. Leave life’s constant buzz behind and savour meaningful connections with your companions, locals, and the natural world.
Gal Oya National Park
Boat safaris on Sri Lanka’s largest lake, spotting elephants and vibrant birdlife
Knuckles Mountains
Hike hidden trails and discovering a disappearing way of life
Historic Galle
Explore the charming fort and the vibrant local food scene here
Colombo
Spend two weeks travelling through Sri Lanka’s rich and varied natural environments on a quest to encounter some of the 500 bird species that have been recorded here. Your expedition will take you into the lush forests of central Sri Lanka’s hill country and the dry national parks of the south via the lowland rainforest of Sinharaja.
An expert birding guide will be on hand to help you identify some of the rarer endemic and migratory species, and each hotel has been selected to optimise the experience. Though the trip is designed around the island’s birdlife, there is plenty of time to take in many of its other charms, such as its food, culture and warm welcome.
Weerawila Bird Sanctuary
Discovering some of the 200 bird species in the Weerawila Bird Sanctuary, including the Majestic Junglefowl, Ceylon Woodshrikes, and Great Cormorants.
Knuckles Mountains
Being surrounded by the deep jungle of the Knuckles Mountain Range while relaxing on the terrace of your remote hillside lodge, looking for parakeets and barbets through the hotel’s telescope.
Sinharaja Rainforest
Journey deep into the Sinharaja Rainforest and keep a lookout for the Sri Lankan White-Eye, Yellow-Eared Bulbul, Brown-Capped Babbler, and Spurfowl.
Gujarat
Go beyond the usual India routes on this 17-day adventure through Gujarat, a region where ancient civilisations, wildlife sanctuaries and traditional crafts still thrive. From the heritage streets of Ahmedabad to the stark beauty of the Rann of Kutch, this itinerary blends history, wildlife and cultural immersion. You’ll meet master artisans in Bhuj, witness blackbuck deer leaping through the grasslands of Velavadar, and step back in time at World Heritage sites like Patan and Modhera.
Ahmedabad
Explore an array of astounding world heritage sights in Ahmedabad and beyond
Wildlife spotting
Spot impressive birds and wildlife like the Asiatic lion and blackbuck deer in Velavadar, Sasan Gir Park and the otherworldly Rann of Kutch
Artisan heritage
Contribute towards the preservation of an array of special traditional arts and crafts by visiting the artisan villages around Bhuj
Cao Bang
Veer off the tourist trail towards the Chinese border on a journey that unveils Vietnam’s hidden gems: the enchanting Ba Be Lake, Ban Gioc waterfall, and Tuyet Tinh Coc Valley. Immerse in diverse cultures, witness awe-inspiring landscapes and explore geological wonders. From mist-covered lakes to cascading falls, each day promises a new marvel.
From the northern frontiers, you’ll head to Halong Bay. Rather than the standard 1-night option, we’ve suggested a two-night cruise here on a spectacular boat (which you might like time to enjoy) which will take you beyond the main route to hidden corners of Cat Ba Island and the equally magnificent (but less visited) scenery of Lan Ha Bay.
This extraordinary journey finishes with a stay near the sacred Yen Tu Mountain in a converted monastery. An unusual end to an extraordinary itinerary.
Ba Be National Park
Hike the forests of Ba Be National Park and cruise across the lake on a motorboat.
Ban Gioc waterfall
Visit the spectacular Ban Gioc waterfall, which divides Vietnam and China.
Halong Bay
Enjoy a two-night cruise on a beautiful cruise from Halong Bay to Lan Ha Ba with a stop on Cat Ba Island.
Hanoi
Vietnam’s long narrow geography lends itself to a fairly obvious and well-trodden travel route. This holiday weaves away from that and offers second-time visitors or those who like something different, the chance to discover Vietnam in a new way.
Hidden street tours
Discover “Saigon” and Hanoi with insiders tours of the backstreets and traditional markets of the less-explored districts.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Kayak, cycle and trek around incredible Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to the world’s largest caves
Vintage Vespa experience
Zip along the famous Hoi An to Hue coastline riding pillion on a vintage Vespa bike.
Bali
Encounter Borneo’s amazing wildlife, journey through Java’s volcanic landscapes visiting impressive temples, and finish with an idyllic stay on an exclusive tropical island.
Kalimantan
Staying in the Borneo rainforest to see orangutans and other wildlife
Java
Exploring the countryside and the magical temples of Indonesia’s cultural heartland
The Karimunjawa Islands
Living the dream at an exclusive, tropical island hideaway
Bangkok
A glorious itinerary for genuinely ethical and immersive elephant encounters and off-the-beaten-track cultural and wildlife experiences.
Mae Sot
Trek to see rescue elephants thriving in their natural habitat
Experience life alongside the Karen people in the hills of northern Thailand
Krabi
Get your dose of tropical beach time
Laos
Experience Laos in depth with Luang Prabang, Kong Lor caves, the Bolaven Plateau and the 4,000 Islands on this 22-day immersive trip.
Nam Ou River
Taking in the remarkable scenery as you journey down the Nam Ou river aboard your private boat
Incredible experiences
Visiting waterfalls, searching for dolphins and taking time to relax in the 4000 islands
Lovely Luang Prabang
Exploring the romantic, beautifully preserved town of Luang Prabang with your expert local guide
Bali
Explore exotic Flores, stalk dragons in Komodo National Park and relax in the most beautiful parts of Bali.
Flores
Discovering the ancient rituals and traditions of the Ngada people in the highlands of Bajawa
Flores
Watching the volcanic crater lakes in Kelimutu change colour in front of your eyes
Komodo National Park
Spotting Komodo dragons on Rinca and exploring the marine wonders
Bira
An extraordinary chance to explore several fascinating cultures, some incredible scenery and diverse native wildlife.
Tana Toraja
Trekking through remote villages to see their fascinating funeral rituals
Tangkoko Nature Reserve
Spotting rare wildlife like the crested black macaques, tarsiers and birds
The Spice Islands
Explore the contrasting islands of bustling Ternate and sleepy Tidore
Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the soul of the destination. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use, where you’ll likely be one of the only travellers in sight.
Sri Lanka, Puttalam & The North West
Tucked away in sixty acres of forest and surrounded by serene lakes, The Mudhouse sits at the foot of the enigmatic Paramakanda Rock Temple. It’s a unique jungle retreat where rustic charm meets immersive adventure.
This eco-lodge offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with beautifully crafted, thatched huts made entirely from natural materials. Thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly into the lush landscape, each private cluster of huts forms its own mini-village within the jungle, complete with spaces for sleeping, dining, and relaxing.
Highlights
Fun local experiences,
Bike rides,
Birdwatching
Best for
Families
Nature nuts
Good to know
Madhya Pradesh, India
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge sits on the edge of Satpura National Park, offering immersive safaris and a deep connection to nature. Tucked within 30 acres of pristine forest, this characterful lodge is run by passionate conservationists and brings guests close to the wildlife that makes this region so special—without compromising on comfort.
Highlights
Safaris,
Forest views,
Peaceful setting
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Wildlife Enthusiasts
Lak Lake, Vietnam
Lakeside glamping in Vietnam’s central highlands. Lak Tented Camp blends rustic charm, nature and local culture on the tranquil shores of Lak Lake.
Highlights
Lakeside setting,
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Solo Travellers
Hemjakot, Nepal
Highlights
Authentic experience,
Mountain views
Best for
Couples
Solos
Uttarakhand, India
Perched high in the Himalayan foothills of Binsar National Park, Nine Furlongs is an intimate mountain hideaway with a storied past. Reached by a short forest trail or rugged drive, the property rewards intrepid travellers with remarkable views of the Nanda Devi range and an atmosphere of serene detachment. This is a place to soak up nature, history and horizon-stretching skies.
Highlights
Epic Himalayan views,
Characterful cottages
Best for
Adventurers,
Couples,
Solos
Central Kalimantan, Indonesia
A riverside eco-lodge in the Borneo rainforest. A great place to stay while spotting orangutans.
Highlights
Once-in-a-lifetime adventure,
Exclusive access
Best for
Couples
Families
Indonesia
This fabulous fleet is the stuff of legend. Seriously. These boats are best described as exclusive floating villas.
Highlights
Once-in-a-lifetime adventure,
Exclusive access
Best for
Couples
Families
