The Indian Subcontinent Unravelled

With a coastline that skirts the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, there are few places that rival the Indian subcontinent for the ultimate beach escape. With a glittering collection of world class beach and spa resorts to its name, the region is just perfect for some R&R under the shade of a leafy palm. We’ve handpicked our favourite destinations where you can do just that, so whether it’s on the south coast of Sri Lanka or the untouched beaches of the Andamans, there’s nowhere better to kick off your flip flops on the sun soaked shores of the Indian subcontinent.

The Himalayas is the undisputed home of trekking in the Indian subcontinent and whilst challenging hikes abound for the intrepid traveller, there are an array of shorter walks to choose from which are just perfect for a stroll through the region’s spectacular scenery. So if tackling the Annapurna Circuit whets your appetite or wandering through Bhutan’s rice paddies sounds more like your cup of tea, we’ve compiled the very best hikes in the region for explorers and amblers alike.

Home to some of the most regal properties on the planet, the grandeur of the Indian subcontinent is categorically not just a nod to its Imperial past. From glittering palaces to luxurious camps, boutique retreats and world class resorts, the region oozes elegance and a timeless sense of style. We’ve put together a selection of showstopper properties, perfect for a special occasion or simply an indulgent stay.

The Indian subcontinent is a kaleidoscope of many different peoples and personalities, and immersing yourself in the local culture on holiday is a hugely rewarding experience. From sampling traditional cuisine, to learning about wildlife conservation or trying your hand at a national sport, getting under the skin of a country is undeniably all about opening your mind to the traditions at its heart.

Whether you’re looking for winter sun or a summer escape to slot into your travel calendar, the Indian subcontinent has something for every season. The vast size of the region ensures it can cater for wildlife enthusiasts, beach buffs and culture vultures at any time of the year. This being said, trying to find the right destination at the right time can be bewildering to say the least, so we’ve compiled a selection of our favourite destinations to help inspire your next holiday no matter the month.

The Indian subcontinent is home to an extraordinary array of safari experiences, animal encounters and spectacular scenery. Alongside a diverse range of flora and fauna, the region also hosts some of the planet’s most majestic animals. One-horned rhinos roam the plains of Chitwan in Nepal whilst elephants plod through the forests of Sri Lanka’s Yala and the Bengal tiger prowls through the scrub of Ranthambore in this wildlife rich corner of the world.

Get back to basics and embrace the very best of nature by spending a night or two in one of the world’s most fabulous camps. Benefiting from incredibly unique scenery and exquisite décor, nowhere does tented accommodation quite like the Indian subcontinent. From sleeping under the stars in a four poster bed, to hunkering down in a luxury tent, we’ve shortlisted our favourite tented camps from across the region for a night under canvas with a difference.

Travelling to far flung destinations with the kids in tow makes for an extra special holiday. Opening their minds to new cultures, their taste buds to new cuisines and their eyes to otherworldly landscapes is a hugely rewarding experience for the whole family. We have handpicked our favourite itineraries, hotels and experiences from across the Indian subcontinent, keeping children and teenagers in mind, just perfect for a family holiday you’ll never forget.

The Indian subcontinent is a mecca for bucket list experiences. Whether it’s soaking up the history of the Taj Mahal, standing on the roof of the world on Mount Everest or visiting the gravity defying Tiger’s Nest, seeing an iconic destination in the flesh is bound to be a holiday highlight. We’ve compiled the poster boy attractions of each country and how best to see them, for a once in a lifetime experience on the Indian subcontinent.