Asia Transformative Tours & Trip Packages

Asia Transformative Tours & Trips

3,959 Asia trips. Tours from 477 tour companies. 10,343 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

200 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Transformative
China Experience
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Three Gorges, Three Gorges Dam, Yangshuo, Yangtze River, Yichang

Highlights

  • This is one of our most comprehensive trips in China, covering huge distances and taking in key destinations from north to south with plenty of variety in experiences and sights along the way
  • Zip through the country from north to south on its efficient high-speed rail network.
  • Take through the iconic scenery of the Yangzi River as you meander through the dramatic Three Gorges on a three-day cruise
  • No matter how many guide books you have read, nothing truly prepares you for the grandeur and immensity of historic sights like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Leshan Big Buddha and the Terracotta Army. However, the country's modern man-made sights refuse to beoutdone, and you can see the modern equivalence of those ancient feats in the skyline of Hong Kong and the Yangzi River's Three Gorges Hydroelectric dam
  • Get up close to giant pandas in Chengdu and learn about the preservation work required for this ancient species.
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Indian Getaway
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Agra, Amber Fort, Delhi, Jaipur, Taj Mahal, Varanasi

Highlights

  • With so much going on in the chaotic capital of Delhi, a local leader is a must. Get to know the city with your leader helping you navigate.
  • Have your expectations smashed by the spectacular Taj Mahal during a guided tour that illuminates the building’s fascinating back story.
  • Spend sunrise along the holy Ganges River in Varanasi, watching thousands of Hindu pilgrims bathe in the water as the sun soaks everything in warm light.
  • Tordi Garh is a place few travellers get to see, but you’ll stay in this rural Rajasthani village in style during a night at a 16th-century palace.
  • Travelling across India wouldn’t be complete without a journey on a sleeper train. With padded bunks for comfort and vendors selling chai and samosas, it’s a quintessential Indian experience.
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Japan: Land of the Rising Sun
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Hakone, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Takayama, Tokyo

Highlights

  • Soar high above Lake Ashi and (on a clear day) get a glimpse of glorious Mt Fuji on a ride on the Hakone ropeway.
  • Be impressed by the efficiency and ultra modernity of Japan’s bullet trains as you zip from place to place.
  • Explore traditional Japanese culture in Edo-period Takayama and visit a folk village, tour a 600-year-old market and a enjoy a sake brewery tasting.
  • Visit the Peace Park for moving insight into the devastation of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima, then cruise to peaceful Miyajima Island where wild deer roam the streets.
  • Finish your tour with three nights in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital and home to literally thousands of temples, the Gion District where Geisha entertain the wealthy elite and renowned Kyoto sushi.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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South India Revealed
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Goa, Kochi, Periyar

Highlights

  • Golden beaches and age-old fishing villages make Goa one of India’s most popular retreats – and a perfect place to consider extending your southern India adventure.
  • Take the atmosphere of Shimla or Darjeeling, add lush tropical jungle and you have the Western Ghats: a hotspot of thundering waterfalls, tea plantations, spice markets, and echoes of a colonial past.
  • Glide through the backwaters of Kerala on a pole boat, going ashore for a village homestay – a beautiful break from hotels and a perfect way to get close to local customs and culture.
  • Cross into Kochi – a colonial centre and major port city in India’s southwest. Explore the seaside Fort Kochi area and consider watching a traditional Kathakali dance performance in your free time.
  • Paddle by canoe to your guesthouse in the temple town of Hampi to enjoy a special stay on the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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North India Revealed
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Agra, Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Red Fort, Taj Mahal, Udaipur, Varanasi

Highlights

  • Travel into the Thar Desert, spending a memorable evening eating Rajasthani food under the stars in a camp set among sand dunes.
  • Cut through the chaos of Jodhpur’s Sadar Bazaar with your knowledgeable local leader, haggling for handicrafts and sipping some of the best lassi in town.
  • Snap incredible photos of the immense Chand Baori, a grand ninth-century stepwell in rural Abhaneri that extends over 20 metres into the earth.
  • Explore the centre of India’s spiritual heart – Varanasi – on a guided walking tour through the alleyways of the Old Town right to the bank of the Ganges.
  • India can be intimidating, but with your local leader there the whole way, you’ll be dodging cows, navigating market stalls, and eating from the best chaat stalls in Delhi in no time.
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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China Highlights
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Beijing, Great Wall of China, Shanghai

Highlights

  • Take on one of the most popular trips in China, packed full of experiences that will give you a great insight into China in just a short time.
  • Be dazzled by Shanghai’s neon lights and the stunning night skyline. Then, get a peek into what life was like in ancient times with a visit to the incredibly scenic Huishan Ancient Town and one of the finest examples of traditional Chinese gardens – Jichang Garden.
  • Spend the night in a charming, family-run guesthouse near the Great Wall of China – a great opportunity to experience local life – and take the chance for a short sunset hike over one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
  • Explore Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City in Beijing with a local leader who knows all the history, tips and tricks for this fascinating and historic area.
  • Witness the incredible sight of the Terracotta Army – buried for over 2000 years, this fantastic historical wonder is an excellent example of the genius and artistic prowess of man.
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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North China Getaway
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Beijing, Huangshan, Shanghai

Highlights

  • China is a land of contrasts. From soaking up the bright city lights of Shanghai’s waterfront to exploring the unearthed Terracotta Warriors outside of Xi’an, you’ll get to see it all for yourself!
  • Spend two nights at the base of the Great Wall in a locally run guesthouse, and follow in the footsteps of soldiers from hundreds of years ago when you trek the lesser-visited Gubeikou to Jinshanling section.
  • This adventure offers plenty of opportunity to get active among the wonders of China. Explore city laneways on walking tours, climb the steps of the Yellow Mountain, trek the Great Wall and cycle countryside lanes in Hongcun.
  • Two overnight trains means you'll maximise your time in each destination, get to know your fellow travellers over a game of mahjong, and have a real sense of the vast size of the country.
  • We’re all about authentic experiences, so go local every step of the way with an experienced local leader, public transport, and family-run guesthouses and lodgings wherever possible.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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Iconic India
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Agra, Delhi, Goa, Jaipur, Jama Masjid, Jodhpur, Kerala, Kochi, Periyar, Rajasthan, Red Fort, Taj Mahal, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Varanasi, Western Ghats

Highlights

  • Rajasthan is the India that many people imagine when they dream of travelling to this captivating country – ancient forts, palaces, rural villages and the colourful cities of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaipur.
  • Pushkar and Varanasi are among the holiest cities in India. Climb to hilltop temples at sunrise, dodge cows in the street, and observe pilgrims praying along the ghats of the sacred Ganges River during a boat cruise.
  • Explore the wonders of the Thar Desert. Feast on Rajasthani cuisine at sunset before bunking down to camp between the sand dunes.
  • Glide through the backwaters of Kerala on a pole boat, going ashore for a village homestay – a beautiful break and a perfect way to get close to local customs and culture.
  • The word ‘colourful’ gets thrown around a lot when people talk about India, but the gateway towers of Meenakshi Amman Temple truly are a technicolour dream.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

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Asia Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
10,343  Reviews
See all Asia tour reviews
Excellent
4,640
Great
1,094
Average
83
Disappointing
20
Terrible
16
C

Christopher

Apr 2017

Provided byG Adventures

When I was researching potential tours of Southeast Asia, I was looking for Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Mai specifically) and Cambodia (Siem Reap/Angkor Wat specifically)

When I was researching potential tours of Southeast Asia, I was looking for Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Mai specifically) and Cambodia (Siem Reap/Angkor Wat specifi...

B

Bernard

Nov 2016

Provided byG Adventures

The experience we had on this trip was life changing

The experience we had on this trip was life changing. We learned so many things about the people and cultures in the 4 countries we visited that it gave us a new app...

A

Aimee

Nov 2016

Provided byG Adventures

This trip was unforgettable for me

This trip was unforgettable for me. It really opened my eyes to the history of these countries and the beautiful resilient people who live there. I love that the G/N...

C

Colleen

Nov 2016

Provided byG Adventures

SE ASia is a culture shock if most of your travel has been in N

SE ASia is a culture shock if most of your travel has been in N.A. Or Europe. It was one new experience after another. We were not that prepared for such large citie...

L

Leane

Nov 2016

Provided byG Adventures

The experience was memorable

The experience was memorable. Never before have I wanted to book another tour so quickly and travel again with the group. I believe this trip has created a monster a...

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Asia Tour Selection Trips

  • Asia is particularly well suited to taking guided tours, especially since travel in China, India and many other countries can be chaotic and confusing for non-natives.
  • Don’t try to tackle too much of Asia in one trip, unless you have unlimited time, resources, and patience.
  • Countries that deserve their own special trips include China, Japan, India, Thailand, Mongolia, Nepal, and Israel – though you could say the same about many others as well.
  • Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore) is a favorite emerging destination, and can be experienced more authentically with the right tour operator who helps you get away from the tourist traps. 
  • River cruise trips are becoming increasingly popular in East Asia, especially in China (Yangtze), Vietnam and Cambodia (Mekong) and Myanmar (Irrawaddy) and are excellent options for those a bit intimidated about getting too up close with Asia yet still experiencing much of its beauty. 
  • Some Asian countries may be known trouble spots with active military or political conflict (Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan), but it is possible to arrange tours to some unexpected places, such as Iran, Kurdish Iraq -- even North Korea.

Additional details

Best Time to Travel in Asia

Pick any time of the year and you will be able to visit one part of Asia. With Asia covering so much space and a variety of landscapes, you will be able to find a time of year that fits. 

However, some areas of Asia during certain times of the year should be avoided. It’s recommended that you coordinate the time of year with the region of Asia you want to visit before booking. Some tours to Asia may be hindered or itineraries may change because of weather or water levels. 

There are a few times of the year you should keep in mind when doing your research. South Asia during the summer months sees high rains during its monsoon season. November through March is monsoon season for many parts of Southeast Asia. Western Asia is very warm during the summer months as much of that area is desert. Central Asia can get very cold during the winter months. 

However, the months of May and September are probably the safest for most of Asia. Temperatures may still be warm in many areas, but you will see less rain and the crowds will be smaller. 

Asia Luxury Travel

There are plenty of Asian luxury tour operators you can choose from. Luxury tours of Asia typically provide premium accommodation in 4 and 5-star hotels in the central areas of the major cities. If you are visiting Asia on a river cruise, you’ll see high-end cruise ships and fine dining options. 

What makes luxury travel in Asia special is the private and personalized experiences. Whether it is a private hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey, or a special photo opp with the Terra Cotta Warriors in China, Asia luxury travel is about those personal and exclusive touches to get you up close and personal with the diverse Asian cultures. 

Asia Budget Travel 

Asia is one of the best places to travel on a budget. Asia, and specifically Southeast Asia, is the epicenter of the backpacking world. 

There are many budget airlines and hostels throughout Asia. In places like Vietnam, you can pay $5 a night for a hostel dorm room and $10 for a bus ride. It can be easy to stick to a budget in Asia as there are many affordable options for travel and accommodation. 

There are plenty of Asia tour operators that provide budget tours or shoestring itineraries. Many of these tours will book you at hostels or homestays where you can meet locals and get to know other travelers.

You’ll also be traveling by local or public transportation to save money. These tours also often include more free time than luxury tours to keep the budget down and allow you to choose what to spend your money on. 

Asia for Older Travelers

While traveling through Asia may be intimidating for older travelers, there is plenty of opportunity to explore this diverse continent. 

However, it’s highly recommended that you do your research of the tour operator and countries you are looking to visit. For example, older travelers may have a harder time in some of the more rural areas of Cambodia and Laos with the dirt paths and trekking.

However, many tours take into account activity level and if you suffer from previous injuries or have a hard time getting around, a less strenuous tour may be the best. 

Much of Asia is mountainous, both in the cities and in the more rural areas. Cities like Istanbul with its very rugged streets and Kathmandu’s high elevation may make walking around difficult. If you are concerned about getting around, going with a more luxury, low intensity tour may be the best. 

Choosing a Southeast Asia Tour

Southeast Asia covers some of the most visited countries in Asia, however, trying to fit all of those countries into one trip will be overwhelming. 

Pick a few countries that you want to visit and find the tour that covers all of those countries. Many of the Southeast Asia tours group together a few countries in their itineraries. Vietnam is often included with Cambodia and Laos whereas Thailand can be combined with Singapore and Malaysia. 

Some of these countries do require a visa to enter the country, like Vietnam. Try to find a tour operator that helps or can direct you to where to get a visa because you will not be allowed into the country without one. 

Southeast Asia has some very interesting and colorful cities, but also some of the most breathtaking and beautiful landscapes in the world. Try to find a tour operator that includes both city life and rural destinations in their itineraries so you can see all that this amazing part of Asia has to provide. 

Street Food in Asia

Asia’s cuisine is vast and different, but one of the best types of food you’ll find everywhere is street food. In places like Bangkok and Hanoi, street food is part of the culture and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. 

Much of the street food you’ll find are quick bites like samosas in India or gua bao buns in Hong Kong. The food stands will also have small chairs and tables for you to sit at if you are eating bigger dishes like pho. Street food in Asia is a great way to get a look into the food culture and ingredients while also saving some money. 

However, it is important to protect yourself. If the food stand doesn’t have any locals buying from it or the food they are serving has been sitting out all day in the sun, don’t eat there. Go where the large lines are and the food has been cooked recently or fried.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 3959 trips to Asia and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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