Wildlife expert Mark Brazil leads this immersive exploration of the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” with its bird-watching haven, Sinharaja Nature Reserve; Yala National Park’s Sri Lankan elephants; and the World Heritage Site of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Asia Travel & Tours
Asia and India offer travelers an untold number of natural and cultural experiences—and our expeditions take you to some of the least-visited and newest emerging destinations in the world. Whether by small ship, riverboat, train, or overland, you’ll be steeped in the lore of each location, and introduced to its most marvelous secrets.
In addition to several signature itineraries—Iran: Wonders of Persia, Snow Monkeys & Cranes of Japan, Natural Wonders of Sri Lanka—we also offer expeditions that venture far off the beaten path. From observing life along the Mekong River by riverboat or traversing the ancient Silk Road by rail to overland adventures through Central India, Japan, Tibet and Nepal, you’ll be privy to adventures that few Westerners have ever experienced.
Upcoming Asia Travel & Tours Expeditions
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Natural Wonders of Sri Lanka
March 15 — March 31, 2019 -
Cultural Treasures of Northern Vietnam & Laos
March 23 — April 7, 2019With social anthropologist Shirley Campbell by your side, you'll enjoy this unique look at the people of Northern Vietnam and Laos. You'll meet with locals from Tai Dam and Tai Kao minority groups, and even join monks for their morning prayers in Luang Prabang.
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Mystical Israel
April 7 — April 19, 2019Discover Israel’s most important sights, including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem, Galilee, and the Dead Sea. You'll also walk along the Via Dolorosa, the traditional Path of Jesus, marked by nine Stations of the Cross.
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Treasures of Japan with South Korea
April 12 — April 28, 2019A classic Zegrahm expedition, not only will you enjoy a thorough Japan tour, you'll also spend a full day in Gyeongju, South Korea. Other highlights include visiting sacred Shinto shrines and ancient Buddhist temples, discovering Hiroshima, and spending time in Matsue.
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Imperial Japan
April 16 — April 28, 2019Spend three full days in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, and enjoy an exclusive geisha experience with a local expert. You'll also cruise along Lake Ashi, which lies in the caldera of Mt. Hakone, enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji, and tour beautiful Miyajima, or "shrine island."
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Bhutan: Journey through a Himalayan Kingdom
May 13 — May 30, 2019In Bhutan, where joy is measured as Gross National Happiness, it’s hard not to smile—meet with friendly locals; revel in the spectacular scenery of the Himalayas; visit the famous Tiger’s Nest monastery; and discover Bhutan's rich cultural heritage in Thimphu, main residence of the king.
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Cultural Mongolia with the Naadam Festival
July 2 — July 16, 2019Experience the annual Naadam Festival, held both in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, and the further out in the country. Observe the traditional Mongolian sports of wrestling, horse racing, and archery—and enjoy the opportunity to try some out yourself!
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Imperial Japan
October 7 — October 19, 2019Spend three full days in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, and enjoy an exclusive geisha experience with a local expert. You'll also cruise along Lake Ashi, which lies in the caldera of Mt. Hakone, enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji, and tour beautiful Miyajima, or "shrine island."
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Nepal & Bhutan with the Black-necked Crane Festival
October 29 — November 18, 2019Wildlife expert Mark Brazil accompanies this exciting tour, during which you’ll discover the cultural and natural treasures of Nepal and Bhutan, from the dramatic Tiger’s Nest monastery to the subtropical forests of Chitwan National Park.
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Intriguing Indochina
November 2 — November 15, 2019Discover the timeless scenes of rural life, lush jungles, and golden temples of Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. You'll also meet the unique hill tribes of Chiang Mai, and explore the exquisite temples of Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm.
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Oman & Jordan
November 2 — November 19, 2019Spend star-filled nights at luxe desert camps in Great Wahiba Sands and Wadi Rum; soak in amazing vistas from the “balcony walk” along the edge of Wadi Nakhr, the Grand Canyon of Arabia; and explore the “Red Rose City” of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
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Central India: A Wildlife Safari
November 22 — December 7, 2019The original setting of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, Pench National Park, is just one of the stunning national parks visited on this Indian safari.
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Snow Monkeys & Cranes of Japan
January 29 — February 16, 2020Marvel at the sight of nearly 12,000 hooded and white-naped cranes, as they flock to Japan’s exquisite wintertime landscape, Arasaki, Kyushu—later, a boat trip to the tip of the Shiretoko Peninsula puts us up close and personal with Steller’s sea eagles.
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Philippines with Palau & Taiwan
February 29 — March 16, 2020On this exotic Philippines tour, explore mangrove forests and scenic coastlines on numerous Zodiac excursions, while nature hikes reveal the amazing biodiversity of these isolated islands.
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Natural Wonders of Sri Lanka
March 20 — April 6, 2020Wildlife expert Mark Brazil leads this immersive exploration of the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” with its bird-watching haven, Sinharaja Nature Reserve; Yala National Park’s Sri Lankan elephants; and the World Heritage Site of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
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Imperial Japan
April 16 — April 29, 2020Spend three full days in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, and enjoy an exclusive geisha experience with a local expert. You'll also experience the excitement of riding first-class in Japan's famed bullet trains, enjoy spectacular views of Mt.
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Borneo: Land of the Orangutan
August 5 — August 20, 2020Search for a huge variety of charismatic species, including orangutans, Bornean pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards, great argus pheasants, eight species of hornbills, and the bizarre Bornean bristlehead on this classic expedition led by naturalists Michael Moore and Rich Pagen.
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Caucasus: Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan
September 19 — October 3, 2020Visit six amazing UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Haghpat Monastery and Echmaidzin, as well as Georgia's famous cave city on this comprehensive tour through these lesser-traveled countries.
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Along the Mekong: China, Thailand & Laos
October 23 — November 9, 2020While the highlight is cruising on the legendary Mekong River, this Laos and Thailand journey also immerses guests in ancient Buddhist temples and the World Heritage Site city of Luang Prabang.
Past Asia Travel & Tours Expeditions
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Nepal & Bhutan
October 29 — November 18, 2015Wildlife expert Mark Brazil accompanies us on this brand-new tour, during which you’ll discover the cultural and natural treasures of Nepal and Bhutan, from the dramatic Tiger’s Nest monastery to Chitwan National Park to Sarangkok’s sublime sunrise.
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India, Sri Lanka & the Maldives
November 27 — December 14, 2015Cruise through the leisurely backwaters of Cochin on a local houseboat, visit the rubber plantations of Trivandum, commune with elephants in Sri Lanka and snorkel for three days in the immaculate Maldives—it’s all part of this rich India expedition.
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Wild Western India
January 2 — January 20, 2016Visiting Western India’s most exotically named regions, including Gir National Park, Velavadar, and Little Rann of Kutch, you’re bound to make incredible memories as you travel with wildlife expert Mark Brazil in search of Asiatic lions, Indian wolves, and the elusive khur.
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Life Along the Mekong River: Laos & Thailand
January 3 — January 18, 2016While the highlight is a six-day cruise on the legendary Mekong River, this Laos and Thailand journey also immerses guests in Pha Taem National Park, ancient Buddhist temples, the World Heritage Site city of Luang Prabang, and pre-Angkorian temple ruins.
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Journey through the Philippines with Palawan & Tubbataha
March 12 — March 28, 2016Explore the Philippine archipelago by land and sea—we’ll snorkel and dive amid colorful coral reefs, hike through rugged mountainscapes, and interact with native cultures and customs through colorful dances and rich folklore.
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Tibet & Nepal: Heart of the Himalayas
April 9 — April 27, 2016With its ethereal ambience, Tibet and Nepal beckon adventurous travelers to wander magical Kathmandu and sky-high Lhasa, meet Bengal tigers in Bardia National Park, and travel to remote Buddhist shrines, tucked into some of the world’s most incredible landscapes.
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Along the Silk Road: Central Asia by Rail
October 13 — October 30, 2016The lesser-known regions of China and the exotic ’Stans spring to life as you journey by rail through Central Asia along the ancient Silk Road, a land of rugged mountains, desert kingdoms, centuries-old bazaars, fine Islamic architecture, and a friendly people waiting to welcome you.
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Wild Southern India
January 8 — January 24, 2017Expedition Leader Mark Brazil, designed this itinerary that reveals southern India’s amazing wealth of birds and wildlife, plus a good dose of local culture.
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Ultimate Maldives: A Snorkeling & Diving Adventure
January 12 — January 26, 2017Cruise through the lesser-visited southern Maldives aboard the luxurious 20-guest diving live-aboard, Orion. With two or three snorkel or dive options daily, you’ll search for whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, manta rays, Napoleon wrasses, and dolphins among the stunning underwater topograp
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Vietnam: Culture & Cuisine
January 31 — February 15, 2017Aboard the intimate, 65-guest Coral Discoverer, cruise among the dramatically sculpted limestone islands and islets of stunning Halong Bay; visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of colorful Hoi An and explore the local markets; and savor delectable cuisine.
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Asia's Subtropical Isles: Philippines, Taiwan & Japan
March 11 — March 29, 2017Leave Asia’s skyscrapers and hectic pace behind for stunning beaches, fantastical caves, and primeval forests. The subtropical islands of the Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan float like jewels upon the Pacific, offering precious treasures for adventurers to discover.
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Spirit of the Himalayas: Ladakh, Dharamsala & Shimla
May 24 — June 10, 2017From soaring Himalayan peaks and deep valleys to rolling hills and dense forests, this overland adventure is a photographer’s dream.
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Cultural Mongolia with the Naadam Festival
July 2 — July 18, 2017Experience the annual Naadam Festival, held both in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, and the further out in the country. Observe the traditional Mongolian sports of wrestling, horse racing, and archery—and enjoy the opportunity to try some out yourself!
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The Heart of Myanmar: Along the Irrawaddy & Chindwin Rivers
September 15 — October 3, 2017Cruise the upper Irrawaddy and exotic Chindwin Rivers aboard the luxurious 46-guest Anawrahta. Enjoy timeless river scenes as you drift past jungles, gorges, and villages; explore the extraordinary Mahar Minkyaung Monastery; and visit the extensive ruins and stunning temples of Bagan.
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Route of the Caravans: The Four Stans of Central Asia
October 6 — October 23, 2017Follow Middle East expert Gary Wintz, as you discover the heart of ancient Samarkand, the timeworn streets of Bukhara, and the ancient city of Khiva, one of the Silk Road's most important trading posts and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Intriguing Indochina
October 20 — November 2, 2017Explore the timeless scenes of rural life, lush jungles, and golden temples in the fascinating countries of Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. Enjoy the stunning sunrise scene at Angkor Wat, visit the highlights of Phonm Penh, and attend a traditional Laotian Baci ceremony.
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Iran by Rail
November 1 — November 15, 2017From the turbulent to the colorful, art to architecture, ancient cities to magnificent ruins, Middle East expert Gary Wintz guides an authentic immersion into Iran, aboard the luxurious Golden Eagle.
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Mystical Israel
November 5 — November 17, 2017Discover a land as old as time itself in Israel. Explore the important sites of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem, Galilee, and the Dead Sea; take a walk along the Via Dolorosa, the traditional Path of Jesus; and visit a traditional Bedouin camp in the middle of the Negev Desert.
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India by Rail with the Hornbill Festival
November 20 — December 4, 2017Join this brand-new adventure and travel aboard the luxurious Palace on Wheels, before attending the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland. Showcasing Naga dance, music, costumes, art, ethnic foods, and handicrafts, this expedition truly discovers a unique and local culture.
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Snow Monkeys & Cranes of Japan
January 31 — February 18, 2018Marvel at the sight of nearly 12,000 hooded and white-naped cranes, as they flock to Japan’s exquisite wintertime landscape, Arasaki, Kyushu—later, a boat trip to the tip of the Shiretoko Peninsula puts us up close and personal with Steller’s sea eagles.
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Intriguing Indochina
February 17 — March 1, 2018Offered through our sister company Travcoa, this adventure will introduce you to the timeless scenes of rural life, lush jungles, and golden temples of Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. You'll also meet the unique hill tribes of Chiang Mai, and explore the temples of Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm.
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Natural Wonders of Sri Lanka
March 21 — April 6, 2018Wildlife expert Mark Brazil leads this immersive exploration of the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” with its bird-watching haven, Sinharaja Nature Reserve; Yala National Park’s Sri Lankan elephants; and the World Heritage Site of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
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Imperial Japan
April 17 — April 28, 2018Offered through our sister company Travcoa, spend three full days in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, and enjoy an exclusive geisha experience with a local expert. You'll also cruise along Lake Ashi, which lies in the caldera of Mt. Hakone, and enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.
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Legendary China
May 4 — May 17, 2018Offered through our sister company Travcoa, spend two weeks discovering China, including Beijing’s vast Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and the Great Wall in the company of your private guide. You'll also meet the life-sized Terra Cotta Warrios in Xi'an and explore Kunming's Stone Forest.
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Hokkaido: Japan's Wild Island
May 19 — June 3, 2018On this brand-new voyage through one of Japan's least-developed islands, you'll be surrounded by wildlife as you search for Japanese pygmy-woodpeckers, white-tailed eagles, Eurasian bullfinches, and iconic red-crowned cranes; and explore spectacular Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
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Spirit of the Himalayas: Ladakh & Dharamsala
May 23 — June 7, 2018From soaring Himalayan peaks and deep valleys to rolling hills and dense forests, this overland adventure is a photographer’s dream.
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Borneo
August 8 — August 23, 2018Search for a huge variety of charismatic species, including orangutans, Bornean pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards, great argus pheasants, eight species of hornbills, and the bizarre Bornean bristlehead on this classic expedition led by naturalists Michael Moore and Rich Pagen.
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Imperial Japan
October 9, 2018Offered through our sister company, Travcoa, spend three full days in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, and enjoy an exclusive geisha experience with a local expert. You'll also cruise along Lake Ashi, which lies in the caldera of Mt. Hakone, and enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.
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Sacred Traditions: Japan Revealed
October 12 — October 30, 2018This Japan adventure introduces you to everything from Honshu Island’s local residents to Kyoto’s noteworthy temples and Kanazawa’s famous gardens of Kenroku-en—it’s an off-the-beaten-path immersion with incredible personal connections made possible by Japan expert Mark Brazil.
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Central India: A Wildlife Safari
November 16 — December 1, 2018The original setting of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, Pench National Park, is just one of the stunning national parks visited on this Indian safari. Also explore Bandhavgarh National Park, formerly a maharajah’s private hunting preserve, as well as Satpura National Parka, a 202-square-mile national park and tiger reserve.
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Myanmar & Laos: Land of a Thousand Temples
November 23 — December 11, 2018Journey with us into some of the least-explored regions of Indochina—Myanmar and Laos—where countless regal temples, lovely minority tribes-people, and stunning gardens await. Visit the Shwedagon Pagoda at sunset, the whitewashed Mon Temple in Bagan, and the floating gardens of Inle Lake.
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Snow Monkeys & Cranes of Japan
January 16 — February 3, 2019Marvel at the sight of nearly 12,000 hooded and white-naped cranes, as they flock to Japan’s exquisite wintertime landscape, Arasaki, Kyushu—later, a boat trip to the tip of the Shiretoko Peninsula puts us up close and personal with Steller’s sea eagles.
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India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar
January 20 — February 5, 2019Join a brand-new expedition that offers the perfect mix of India's, Bangladesh's, and Myanmar's cultural and natural treasures. Highlights include spending two full days exploring the UNESCO World Biosphere-designated Sundarbans Reserve Forest, and visiting the stunning Shwedagon Pagoda.
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Cultural Gems of Sri Lanka
February 2 — February 16, 2019Discover a treasure trove of cultural delights on the brand-new journey. Explore the impressive ruins of ancient kingdoms, witness sacred Buddhist sites, stroll past beautiful colonial architecture, and take an tour of a working tea plantation.