Indian Subcontinent

From those living in the large, bustling cities to the inhabitants of the small mountain villages that seem to be of a different time altogether, the people of the Indian subcontinent are both fascinating and hugely hospitable. This is just the start of its appeal as a place to explore – the amazing animals, beautiful coastlines, ancient temples, palaces and dramatic scenery are just as alluring. The incredible Himalayas are best experienced on a trek, with stunning vistas all the way, and delicious local curries as fuel. There’s Everest too, of course, in Nepal. And the amazing hill country of Ski Lanka, bright green with tea plantations and scattered with waterfalls, cloud forests and dazzling wildlife.

Known as "Land of the Thunder Dragon", Bhutan is one of the Himalayan Kingdoms, and lies along the ridges of the Eastern Himalayas, bordered by Tibet to the North and by India to the South. Bhutan is filled with ancient traditions, in which Bhutanese people wear traditional dress and The Drukpa Kagyupa school of Buddism offers a fascinating cultural insight.

India cannot be easily described or summed up, it is a beautiful mix of people and places, a patchwork quilt of a thousand polarised traditions and cultures brought together into one colourful expression. From the high Himalaya to the backwaters of Kerala, India offers spectacular natural beauty in every shape and form.

The Maldives Archipelago is located to the south west of India, an expansive cluster of atolls surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean -surely the ultimate paradise island experience. Luxurious over-water villas are suspended above shallow lagoons, with over 300 species of tropical fish, making the Maldives the perfect diving location.

Nepal lies mainly on the southern slope of the Himalayas, stretching from high peaks to the lower Ganges Plain. Majestic Mount Everest is naturally its biggest attraction, but visitors will also the ancient city of Kathmandu and the incredible wildlife in the Chitwan National Park.

Sri Lanka is located at the southern tip of India, just north of the Equator and surrounded by the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka sweeps from mountainous jungle terrain, to vivid green tea plantations, down to fabulous beaches. British colonialism meets colourful Sri Lankan culture, and amazing wildlife and lush vegetation make every part of the place seem utterly alive.