Our unique adventure Asia tours are a feast for the senses. Zingy, vibrant and spicy all at once, just like its fabulous food, Asia boasts a stunning collection of ancient civilisations, spectacular wildlife, challenging trekking and an astounding range of cultures. You’re never far from the swirl of incense on one of our Asia holidays – or a clash of colours that will leave your senses tingling.
Any trip to Asia will offer a bewildering choice of experiences for the adventurous traveller. But with our award-winning local guides, your holiday is in safe hands; we’ve been taking guests to far-flung corners of the Earth since Exodus began life in 1974. Since then, we’ve scoured the backroads of this vast continent to bring you a comprehensive range of Asia tours that cover the highlights, authentic foodie experiences and off-the-beaten-track adventures.
Browse our selection of adventure holidays in Asia below, and take your pick by destination or the type of activity you’re looking for.
Sustainable travel is central to our philosophy, and it’s our goal to ensure that tourism benefits the people and places we visit. That’s why we are actively supporting them by helping to fund local schools and projects, such as our tree nursery in Nepal. By joining one of our Asia tours, you could help support our efforts.
With Asian wildlife under threat from poaching and population pressure, our Asia holidays to national parks encourage the crucial protection of native wildlife, while also providing valuable employment and income in local communities. As well as popular reserves such as Chitwan National Park in Nepal, Sepilok Orang-Utan Sanctuary in Borneo and Ranthambore National Park in India, we also visit lesser-known national parks such as India’s Kanha and Kaziranga – vital habitats for the tiger and one-horned rhino, respectively.
Known as the ‘bowl of Vietnam’, the Mekong Delta produces much of the country’s staple foods such as fruit, sugar cane and coconuts. A boat ride along the Mekong River takes you among the colourful floating markets of Cai Be. Throughout the journey, stop off and learn about the small cottage industries where rice paper and coconut candy are made, and enjoy trying some of the delicious local produce.
Temples of Kyoto in Japan
Strewn with ancient temples, shrines and traditional Japanese gardens, Kyoto is one of the country’s most beautiful places to visit on Asia tours. You’ll find a mixture of both Buddhist and Shinto shrines, all equally as beautiful. Kinkakuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most impressive temples and dates back to 1397. Ryoanji Temple and rock garden, Ginkakuji (the Silver Pavilion) and the 5-storey Toji Temple are also worth visiting.
Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park
Home to some of Sri Lanka’s most revered wildlife, Yala National Park is a giant natural playground for the likes of elephants, wild boars, crocodiles and bears. Owing to the park’s freshwater lagoons and dense jungle, the elusive leopard can also be found here. With approximately 125 leopards roaming the park, Yala has one of the world’s largest concentrations. You’ll also see hundreds of species of bird circling overhead and around the lagoons.
Thailand’s capital of Bangkok
The colourful capital of Thailand, Bangkok takes you on a sensory journey through history with impressive sites such as the Grand Palace complex, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho, where you’ll find the famous reclining Buddha. On our Asia holidays you can also visit the floating markets, sample authentic Thai street food and walk along the vibrant Asiatique riverfront.
India’s Kerala backwaters
Gently flowing through South India, the backwaters of Kerala steer you away from the hustle and bustle of towns and cities on a serene journey along its network of canals and lagoons. Travelling by rice boat, discover the authentic way of life where locals wash their pots in the water and fishermen net their catch of the day. Along the banks you’ll find traditional villages, ancient churches and ornate temples dedicated to the Hindu religion.
FAQs on Asia Holidays
What is the best country to visit on Asia holidays?
With so many diverse cultures, dramatic scenery and historical sites to explore, you’re spoilt for choice with Asia tours. From the elaborate temples and gardens of Japan to an abundance of natural wonders in Vietnam, it’s difficult to choose a favourite country. If you enjoy a challenge, trek to Mount Everest Basecamp in the Himalayas or for something a little less demanding, explore the stunning landscapes of Thailand and sample the rich culture of Bangkok. Then there’s Sri Lanka with its tranquil back roads, perfect for cycling; the colourful festivals of Rajasthan; and the dramatic peaks of Tajikistan.
Can you travel to Asia without vaccinations?
Depending on where you want to travel to on Asia holidays, the vaccination requirements will vary. In Southeast Asia there is a high risk of malaria and although there are no vaccines to prevent this, you should take precautions to avoid being bitten. In the Far East, North and Central Asia there are no vaccinations required, however, it’s always best to consult a medical professional before you travel. Requirements for the Middle East depend on the individual country and each of our tours specifies which vaccinations you’ll need.
Where are the best walking holidays in Asia?
Asia is an extremely diverse continent filled with unique experiences and landscapes. The Himalayas lend themselves to mountain treks such as Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit where you’ll walk in the footsteps of famous explorers and uncover some of the world’s most phenomenal scenery. Alternatively, walk along the Great Wall of China and discover the magnificent structures and views. But you don’t have to go high to experience the best of Asia with fabulous cities and ancient sites taking you on immersive journeys into the fascinating histories and cultures.
What are the best things to see in India?
From trekking the Himalayas to going in search of the leopard, India is filled with awesome sights and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Northern India is great for architecture and historical sites such as the world-famous Taj Mahal, the Maharaja’s Palace and Amber Fort or head to Ranthambore National Park to see the incredible wildlife and the elusive tiger. To get a flavour of India’s diverse culture, visit the bustling cities of Delhi and Jaipur on a culinary tour of the Golden Circle where you can visit iconic landmarks.
What is the traditional dish of Thailand?
Fusing aromatic spices with meat and fish, Thai food has become much loved around the world, although it will never be quite as authentic as it is in Southeast Asia. Combining fried noodles with either chicken or shrimp, Pad Thai is one of the more common dishes you’ll find in Thailand. Soups are also popular here with the likes of Guay teow, Tom Yum Goong and Tom Kha Gai stirring your tastebuds. Then of course, there are the red and green Thai curries made with coconut milk, chillies, ginger and fresh herbs and spices.
Where is best for cycling in Asia?
From quiet backroads and idyllic coastline, Asia abounds with wonderful routes for exploring on two wheels. Ride between the Five Stans (Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan), explore the lush tea plantations of Sri Lanka or cycle among the temples of Tokyo and Kyoto on an eye-opening tour of Japan. The Mongolian wilderness also presents you with exciting trails that lead you through pine forests, open steppe and rugged mountains as you camp beneath the stars along the way.
What are the most famous sights in Vietnam?
Brimming with vibrant cities, untamed natural landscapes and historical sites, Vietnam is an exceptional country to visit. Explore the incredible, underground Cu Chi tunnels that serve as a reminder of the country’s past; wander through the frenetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, tasting the delicious street food along the way; and sail along the emerald waters of Halong Bay between forested islands and towering limestone karsts. Hoi An is a great place to see the Chinese and Japanese influences in Vietnam as you walk around old merchant houses and pagoda-style temples.