Himalayan vistas, tropical beaches, desert palaces, and grand architecture: South Asia offers an array of choices for every traveler. Whether you’re after a buzzy urban getaway or a pristine slice of nature, these are the best South Asia weekend getaways.
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 line the hillsides, this historic Buddhist town draws culture and history enthusiasts with quiet charms.
Paro is home to the cornerstones of Bhutanese architecture, including the Ta Dzong watchtower housing the National Museum of Bhutan, plus regional signature wooden storefronts in the town center.
Bhutan’s most iconic sacred site — the stunning Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery — is the most iconic landmark in town. The temple clings to a cliffside far above the 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 eras — from hippie haven in the ’70s to trance electronic music 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 nightlife by the Arabian Sea draw a hip crowd, while the white sand beaches of the south remain unmatched for a dip and long relaxing seaside days.
Take time to explore 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 apple or coconut palm sap liquor on a family-owned farm.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Nepal‘s vibrant capital city is perfect for a weekend of culture before you head deeper into the Himalayas.
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.
Take in the marvelous architecture at The Boudhanath Stupa Buddhist monument, then take in the sights at Durbar Square in the heart of the old city. Don’t forget to eat a wholesome Nepali thali meal of rice, lentils, greens, and curries on a round platter.
Dhaka, Bangladesh
The busy 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 exciting new restaurants.
Remnants of the country’s history offer a lens into its past, from the 17th-century reddish pink Lalbagh Fort to the palatial, bright pink late-19th-century Ahsan Manzil.
Dhaka’s true pulse lies in its narrow streets. Hop onto a cycle rickshaw and take in the sights of the Old City, or walk through 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 rose-hued palaces, impressive forts, and marvelous meals.
Stroll the Johari Bazaar for some truly stunning finds: Think vibrant tie-dye bedspreads, handcrafted leather jooti shoes, intricate miniature paintings, and 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 even try your hand at block printing a scarf.
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