Himalayan vistas, tropical beaches, desert palaces and grand colonial architecture: South Asia offers a dizzying array of choices for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re after a buzzy urban getaway or a pristine slice of nature, these are the GOAT weekend destinations in the subcontinent.
As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.
Paro, Bhutan
In a deep green valley sliced by the Paro Chhu river, where looming fortresses and ancient monasteries stud the hillsides, a traditional Buddhist town draws culture and history enthusiasts with its quiet charms.
Paro is home to the cornerstones of Bhutanese architecture, including the Ta Dzong watchtower and museum, plus characteristic wooden shopfronts in the town center.
The main reason to visit, though, is Bhutan’s most iconic sacred site — the stunning Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The temple clings impossibly to a sheer cliffside far above a valley, and the challenging trek to reach it is worth all the effort when you finally catch a glimpse of this architectural marvel.
Goa, India
Through its many avatars — from hippie haven in the ’70s to trance party capital in the ’90s — India’s sunshine state, Goa, has remained a tourist magnet.
Nowadays, North Goa’s sleek beachside spots for seafood and sundowners by the Arabian Sea draw a hip crowd, while the white sand beaches of the south remain unmatched for a dip and a laze.
A new wave of hyperlocal experiences is redefining the tourism landscape, putting the spotlight firmly on Goa’s unique culture and natural habitats. Kayak down quiet backwaters lined with mangrove forests to spot endemic birds, or sign up for a feni tasting, where you’ll sample the state’s locally brewed cashew or coconut liquor on a family-owned plantation.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Nepal’s vibrant capital city is perfect for a weekend of culture and indulgence before heading deeper into Himalayan country.
Kathmandu offers something for every kind of traveler: Centuries-old temples and serene Buddhist stupas strung with colorful prayer flags dominate the city skyline, while a hip bar and café scene defines the backpacker district of Thamel.
Join the locals in circumambulating the Boudhanath stupa, and then take in the sights at Durbar Square in the heart of the old city. Don’t forget to sample a wholesome Nepali thali meal of rice, lentils, greens and meaty curries.
Dhaka, Bangladesh
The frenetic capital of Bangladesh is the country’s center of politics, finance and Bengali culture, where Mughal-era monuments and bustling bazaars coexist with modern high-rises and sleek restaurants.
Remnants of the country’s checkered history offer a lens into its storied past, from the 17th-century Lalbagh Fort to the palatial, British-era Ahsan Manzil.
There’s enough sightseeing for an action-packed weekend, but Dhaka’s true pulse lies in its narrow streets. Hop onto a cycle rickshaw and take in the sights of the Old City, or if you’re feeling adventurous, scour the street markets for silks and crafts.
Jaipur, India
No matter how many times you travel here, Rajasthan’s “Pink City” of Jaipur dazzles with its rose-hued palaces, impressive forts and meals fit for maharajas.
Trawl Johari Bazaar for some truly stunning finds: Think vibrant tie-dye bedspreads, handcrafted leather jooti shoes, intricate miniature paintings, and of course, breezy block-printed cottons.
To understand Jaipur’s age-old textile traditions, design lovers can head to the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, housed in a traditional haveli mansion. You’ll see the tools of the trade, watch craftsmen at work and can even try your hand at block printing a scarf.
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