Southern Asia Guide
A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling to Southern Asia
Southern Asia
Why Southern Asia?
Majestic mountain views, towering forts, stunning palaces, impressive temples, exotic wildlife, bustling cities, colorful bazaars, picturesque beaches, golden deserts, Southern Asia has it all. Let the magic of these sacred lands enchant you, traveling through India and Sri Lanka, trekking through the mountains and outdoor playgrounds of Nepal and Bhutan, and experiencing island bliss in the far-flung Maldives. Ker & Downey visitors find themselves returning again and again to take in more of all that this incredible region has to offer.
Southern Asia
Seasonality & Pricing
Keep in mind that the exact timing and intensity of these seasons can vary depending on the specific location within Southern Asia.
October to Mid-April: During high demand season, India transitions from a pleasant post-monsoon season to a mild, dry winter, then warms into early summer by March–April, with the south staying consistently warm. Nepal and Bhutan move from crisp, dry autumns to cold winters, then mild springs by March–April. The Maldives enjoys a sunny, dry season throughout, while Sri Lanka sees rain in the east but stays dry and pleasant elsewhere through early April.
Mid-April to July: In low demand season, India shifts to the onset of the southwest monsoon bringing heavy rain across most regions. Nepal and Bhutan transition to wet monsoon summers, with significant rainfall in lower areas and snow at higher altitudes. The Maldives moves into its wet season with increased rain and humidity, though showers are often brief. Sri Lanka sees the southwest monsoon hit the west and south delivering rain, while the east stays relatively dry.
August to September: The shoulder season has India remaining in the grip of the southwest monsoon. Nepal and Bhutan experience the tail end of their monsoon seasons. The Maldives continues its wet season with frequent showers. Sri Lanka sees the southwest monsoon weaken in the west and south shifting to drier conditions.
Customized Itinerary Pricing
$2,000 per person per day
$1,300 per person per day
$1,500 per person per day
Regional
Considerations
Important considerations when traveling to Southern Asia:
- India’s festivals are a sight not to be missed. Exact dates will vary year to year, depending upon the lunar calendar, and visitors can expect some delays and crowds.
- In India, the Diwali festival of lights takes place during late October and early November, and the Holi festival of colors is in early March.
- India also hosts the unique Pushkar Camel Festival in November.
- November to March is best time for wildlife sightings in the national parks and wildlife refuges of Central India.
- Game drives are not possible in Kanha and Bandhavgarh National Parks on Wednesday afternoons.
- Game drives are not possible in Ranthambore National Park on Wednesdays (all day).
- Indian tiger parks are largely closed during monsoon months, from June 30th to October 15th, annually.
- The best mountain visibility in Nepal and Bhutan can be found from November to February.
The Ker & Downey
Difference
The Ker & Downey Difference is in the hand-picked experiences we create that are unique to you. Experiences include:
- Private visits with experts in architecture, history, and art in India.
- Exclusive use of Rajasthan palace that was once the home of wealthy lords.
- Visit a national park in Central India and meet a respected wildlife expert.
- Private visit with a noble family in Rajasthan.
- Fantastic hikes across the Annapurnas and Himalayas in Nepal.
- Hike to fortresses and monasteries hidden in Bhutan.
Southern Asia’s culture, history, scenery, and people are a rich combination of the past and present, offering the visitor an endless variety of intense sights, sounds, and smells that often dazzle the senses. Travel to India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and the gorgeous Maldives will leave an impression that is impossible to forget. Contact us to start planning your own custom Southern Asia adventure.
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