One of the world’s most diverse and mysterious regions is South Asia, a massive chunk of land encompassing the Indian subcontinent, the Himalayas and a spattering of tropical islands. Striking religion and culture exist side-by-side, their tensions always lying just beneath the surface. But for the traveler South Asia is a wonderland offering a little bit of everything.
Explore: Bangladesh • Bhutan • India • Maldives • Nepal • Pakistan • Sri Lanka
At its heart lies the massive crush of humanity known as India. Steel your nerves for your first foray into this passionate country which slaps you in the face with its bleak poverty and stunning beauty at every turn. Actually several distinct regions, India boasts chaotic cities, the Taj Mahal, the deserts of Rajasthan, the Kerala Backwaters and popular beaches like those in Goa.
India is hardly a relaxing holiday destination, but few travelers return unchanged by their experience. Its Muslim neighbor to the west, Pakistan, is filled with amazing mosques such as Islamabad’s Shah Faisal and soaring mountains in the Kashmir region. To the east is the desperate flood-prone country of Bangladesh. Its capital Dhaka is one of the most shockingly poor places on earth.
The Himalayas ring the northern borders of South Asia, dividing the subcontinent from Tibet. Trekkers love Nepal, situated to the east of Delhi, for its endless web of walking trails. The Annapurna circuit trek takes you deep in the Buddhist splendor of its alpine villages, while Kathmandu retains its mysterious reputation as a heady blend of temples, holy men and fluttering prayer flags, despite pollution, chaotic traffic and poor infrastructure.
Bhutan allows just a few thousand well-heeled visitors into its Himalayan kingdom each year, but it’s definitely worth the cost to experience a completely unadulterated Buddhist culture. Sri Lanka provides another face of Buddhism, epitomized in the cool, mountain town of Kandy. Amazing beaches make Sri Lanka a chilled out alternative to India.
But if you really need to unwind in isolation, head to the Maldives. This splash of tiny atolls will likely be submerged by rising sea levels before long so visit it while you can. Anywhere you travel in South Asia you’ll be challenged by crowds, con artists, beggars and unavoidable poverty. But the intense spirituality, ancient history and superlative nature make it worth the effort.
Where to Go
Highlights
- Taj Mahal: (India) An iconic white marble mausoleum and UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing eternal love.
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress: (Sri Lanka) An ancient rock fortress with stunning frescoes and panoramic views.
- Mohenjo-daro: (Pakistan) The ruins of an ancient Indus Valley Civilization city, showcasing early urban planning.
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery: (Bhutan) A cliffside monastery offering breathtaking views and spiritual significance.
- Kathmandu Valley: (Nepal) A region filled with historic temples, palaces, and vibrant culture.
- Maldives’ Coral Reefs: (Maldives) Renowned for their marine life and world-class diving spots.
- Goa Beaches: (India) Famous for their golden sands, nightlife, and Portuguese-influenced culture.
- Boudhanath Stupa: (Nepal) One of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal, a significant site for Tibetan Buddhism.
- Sundarbans Mangrove Forest: (Bangladesh) The world’s largest mangrove forest, home to the Bengal tiger.
- Adam’s Peak: (Sri Lanka) A sacred mountain known for its “Sri Pada” footprint and stunning sunrise views.
- Golden Temple: (India) A stunning Sikh gurdwara in Amritsar, known for its golden façade and spiritual significance.
- Lumbini: (Nepal) The birthplace of Buddha, featuring ancient monasteries and a sacred garden.
- Thimphu Dzong: (Bhutan) A majestic fortress and monastery serving as the administrative and religious center of Bhutan’s capital.
- Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth: (Sri Lanka) A sacred Buddhist site housing a tooth relic of the Buddha.
- Karimabad (Hunza Valley): (Pakistan) Known for its stunning mountainous landscapes and historic forts.
- Chitwan National Park: (Nepal) A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its wildlife, including rhinos and Bengal tigers.
- Jaisalmer Fort: (India) A massive sandstone fort in the Thar Desert, known for its intricate architecture and vibrant bazaars.
- Male: (Maldives) The capital city, offering a mix of modern attractions and traditional culture.
- Paro Valley: (Bhutan) A picturesque valley with historic monasteries, traditional architecture, and stunning landscapes.
- Colombo: (Sri Lanka) A bustling coastal city known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and beautiful beaches.
Destinations
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Bangladesh: Bangladesh, located in South Asia, is known for its lush greenery, extensive waterways, and rich cultural heritage. The country features the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world and home to the Bengal tiger, as well as the historical city of Dhaka, with its markets and colonial architecture. Travelers can explore ancient temples in Paharpur, the tea gardens of Sylhet, and Cox’s Bazar, the world’s longest natural sea beach.
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Bhutan: Bhutan, a small kingdom nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is famed for its stunning landscapes and unique cultural heritage centered on Buddhist practices. The country offers breathtaking sites like the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the majestic Punakha Dzong, and the amazing festivals held in Thimphu. Travelers can enjoy trekking through pristine forests, exploring traditional villages, and experiencing the country’s commitment to preserving its natural environment and cultural traditions.
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India: India, a vast and diverse country in South Asia, offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences. Highlights include the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, the markets and forts of Rajasthan, and the backwaters of Kerala. Visitors can explore bustling cities like Delhi and Mumbai, serene hill stations in the Himalayas, and spiritual destinations such as Varanasi and Rishikesh, each offering unique insights into India’s multifaceted heritage.
Agra • Chennai • Delhi • Kanha National Park • Kolkata • Mumbai • Taj Mahal • Varanasi
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Maldives: The Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. It’s a top destination for luxury resorts, offering world-class diving, snorkeling, and water sports. Visitors can also explore Malé, the bustling capital, experience traditional Maldivian culture, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
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Nepal: Nepal, a landlocked country in the Himalayas, is famous for its towering peaks, including Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth. The Kathmandu Valley is rich in history and culture, with ancient temples and palaces like those in Bhaktapur and Patan. Adventurous travelers can trek the Annapurna Circuit, explore Chitwan National Park for wildlife spotting, and experience the serene beauty of lakeside Pokhara.
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Pakistan: Pakistan, located in South Asia, offers a diverse range of landscapes from the towering peaks of the Karakoram Range to the deserts of Sindh. Major attractions include the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro, the Mughal-era architecture of Lahore, and the stunning Hunza Valley. Visitors can explore the bazaars of Karachi, the historic Khyber Pass, and the beauty of the Swat Valley.
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Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is known for its diverse landscapes ranging from rainforest and arid plains to highlands and sandy beaches. The cultural triangle includes ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, while Kandy is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth. Travelers can enjoy the coastal city of Galle with its colonial fort, the scenic train rides through tea plantations, and the wildlife-rich Yala National Park.
Top Cities
- Dhaka: (Bangladesh) The bustling capital known for its markets and historical mosques.
- Thimphu: (Bhutan) The serene capital city nestled in the Himalayas, featuring traditional Bhutanese architecture and amazing festivals.
- Delhi: (India) A sprawling metropolis blending historic landmarks like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar with modern amenities.
- Mumbai: (India) India’s financial capital, famous for its Bollywood film industry, colonial architecture, and bustling street life.
- Male: (Maldives) The compact capital island, offering a mix of modern attractions and traditional culture.
- Kathmandu: (Nepal) The historic capital city known for its ancient temples and bustling markets.
- Islamabad: (Pakistan) The modern capital city with spacious parks, the striking Faisal Mosque, and scenic Margalla Hills.
- Karachi: (Pakistan) A vibrant port city known for its diverse culture, historic sites, and many markets.
- Colombo: (Sri Lanka) A coastal city with a blend of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and markets.
- Kandy: (Sri Lanka) Known for the sacred Temple of the Tooth and its beautiful setting by Kandy Lake.
- Lahore: (Pakistan) The cultural heart of Pakistan, famous for its Mughal architecture, bazaars, and historic gardens.
- Chennai: (India) A cultural hub in southern India, known for its Dravidian temples, classical music, and sandy beaches.
- Hyderabad: (India) Known for its historic Charminar, rich Nizami heritage, and booming tech industry.
- Jaipur: (India) The “Pink City” famous for its grand palaces, forts, and markets.