From Sari to Safari: How To See More Of South Asia In One Trip

BY Lucie, Yonder escapologist

In the rich tapestry of our globe, South Asia emerges as a gem with countless facets, each reflecting a spectrum of cultures, traditions, and landscapes. Imagine stepping into the serenity of Sri Lanka’s temples one day, and the very next, feeling the hum of Mumbai’s busy streets or marvelling at the pristine beaches of the Maldives. 

If you’re committing to the journey it’s not just advisable, but rather essential, to immerse deeply, to broaden one’s itinerary. Because, dear reader, South Asia is not a singular experience to be checked off, but a vast mosaic to be woven into your very essence. After all, in the face of such diversity, why limit oneself? You’re flying all this way, so let’s make the journey count; make every moment and mile matter. 

The subcontinent beckons, and it promises a myriad of amazements. Dive in, and drink deeply.

Yonder’s favourite combination itineraries

Rajasthan & Goa

Immerse yourself in a 14-day escapade that spans from desert dunes to sun-kissed shores. Initiate your adventure in Rajasthan, where the magnificence of the Rajmahal Palace in Jaipur envelopes you. Traverse the vibrant streets, and then rest in the contemporary embrace of RAAS Jodhpur as you explore the city’s blue-tinted heritage.

Transitioning to Goa, the bylanes of Old Goa share tales of yesteryears with their colonial aesthetics. The beaches, though, are the pièce de résistance. With the Taj Exotica Goa as your oasis and The Leela Goa offering a harmonious blend of beachside tranquillity, the Goan leg becomes a sumptuous retreat.

From Rajasthan’s regal elegance to Goa’s languid allure, this odyssey promises unparalleled luxury, awaiting the discerning traveller.

Read more: The Golden Triangle & Goa (13 days)

Rajasthan & Kerala

Across a fortnight, journey from the sandy terrains of Rajasthan to the lush greens of Kerala. Begin at The Imperial, where Delhi’s colonial grandeur sets the tone, before moving to the heart of Rajasthan. The RAAS Jodhpur acts as a window into the city’s azure wonders.

Kerala beckons next, with Cochin’s vibrant port life offering a delightful prelude. As you journey deeper, Alappuzha’s backwaters with the MS Oberoi Vrinda become a serene escape. Your stay at the Kumarakom Lake Resort, surrounded by nature’s bounty, ensures moments of pure bliss.

Combining the regal with the serene, this voyage crafts a tale of two diverse landscapes, both resplendent in their luxury.

Read more: The Golden Triangle & Kerala (16 days)

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Rajasthan & Sri Lanka

Over 14 days, weave through the royal tapestry of Rajasthan and the rich heritage of Sri Lanka. Initiating in Jaipur’s Rajmahal Palace, where royalty meets luxury, traverse the historical wonders of the desert state. As you make your way through cities like Jodhpur, with RAAS standing as a bastion of luxury, the essence of Rajasthan’s history and culture come alive.

Sri Lanka, the jewel of the Indian Ocean, offers a stark contrast. From the temple-laden city of Kandy to the golden shores of Galle, the island’s diversity complements Rajasthan’s grandeur.

This curated expedition entwines two ancient cultures, offering an experience both opulent and culturally enriching.

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Rajasthan & the Maldives

Begin this two-week journey amidst Rajasthan’s forts and palaces. The opulence of the Rajmahal Palace serves as a fitting gateway to the desert state. As you navigate through cities like Jodhpur, taking solace in the luxury of RAAS, the rich tapestry of Rajasthani heritage unfolds.

Next, the pristine atolls of the Maldives await. Here, luxury is redefined with overwater bungalows, clear azure waters, and coral gardens painting a tropical dream.

From the arid beauty of Rajasthan to the Maldivian tropical paradise, this journey is a testament to South Asia’s varied luxury landscapes.

Rajasthan & the Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Starting in Rajasthan, the land of kings, the Rajmahal Palace introduces you to regal luxury. As you journey through the state, the contemporary elegance of RAAS Jodhpur complements the historical charm.

Transition then to the Andamans, a different kind of paradise. The Barefoot at Havelock becomes your sanctuary amidst white sands and turquoise waters. Here, nature’s beauty intertwines seamlessly with luxury.

From desert landscapes to island havens, this 14-day journey showcases the diverse opulence that India offers.

Read more: Islands & Tigers (11 days)

Sri Lanka & the Maldives

Across two weeks, experience the best of two island nations. In Sri Lanka, explore ancient fortresses, rainforests, and serene beaches. Each city, be it the cultural hub of Kandy or the coastal charm of Galle, tells a unique tale.

The Maldives, in contrast, presents a languid escape. Here, the emphasis is on underwater marvels, overwater retreats, and sunset horizons.

The blend of Sri Lankan heritage with Maldivian luxury ensures a journey that’s both culturally profound and indulgently relaxing.

Lucie, Yonder escapologist

By Lucie, Yonder escapologist

YONDER SUGGESTIONS

Yonder is a specialist India tour operator, including tailor-made, luxury holidays to India which can include any of the must see places discussed in this article.

Previous holidays which we’ve booked include India’s Golden Triangle and Tigers toura culture, wildlife and backwaters tour in Kerala and the hidden India Rajasthan tour. These can be great inspiration for your own itineraries.

We can also arrange luxury holidays which explore all the different aspects of India such as our Incredible India tour.

All Yonder itineraries are crafted on a tailor-made, one-off basis, so you can be sure that your holiday will be as individual as you are.