Suggested itineraries in October

The gateway to winter, October is the ideal month for an exotic Asian getaway. The summer monsoon is coming to an end in central Vietnam, which means a little rain to break the temperature but mostly sunny days in the mid-to-south coast’s beautiful beaches. By October the southwest monsoon in India is easing so if you want to visit the cultural triangle, now is a fantastic time. Rajasthan has little rain in October and because of the recent monsoon, trees are a verdant green and tropical hibiscus flowers add splashes of colour.

A Family Wilderness Adventure in Kipling Country

Atkinson India April 2015 Ampersand Travel 7

12 days from £6,820 for 2023

This bespoke Indian wildlife adventure has been especially designed for families travelling with children, bringing to life Rudyard Kipling's stories.

View here

A Gastronomic Tour of China

A Gastronomic Tour Of China Itinerary 1

13 days from £8,910 for 2023

Everyone has eaten Chinese cuisine before, but nothing compares to walking amongst the streets of Chengdu, being fascinated by the...

View here

A Grand Tour of Bhutan

Six Senses, Punakha (1).jpg

10 days from £7,150 for 2023

A wonderfully rich and varied itinerary designed for the first time visitor who wants the full introduction with all the...

View here

A Heavenly Journey through Bali, Indonesia with Alila Villas & COMO hotels

INDONESIA Alilavillassoori Paddy Field

13 days from £8,140 for 2023

Both soulful and luxurious, this heavenly holiday captures the very best of Bali staying at her finest hotels. Begin beachside...

View here

A Week in Laos

LAOS Luang Prabang Bridseye View

8 days from £4,015 for 2023

Explore the charming highlights of northern and southern Laos at a restful pace on this perfect seven day introductory itinerary...

View here

Aman Bhutan... The Luxury Amankora Journey

Amankora, Bumthang, Bhutan (2).jpg

10 days from £10,350 for 2023

Our most luxurious and serene Bhutan trip, staying exclusively in Amankora resorts and focusing on laid-back sightseeing with optional nature...

View here

An Art Lover’s Tour of Japan

Japan James Jayasundera Ampersand Travel 52

14 days from £11,055 for 2023

We have long been fascinated with Japanese art. The Impressionists’ love of Japonisme is returned in kind, with some of...

View here

An Educational Adventure: The Perfect Family Holiday to China

CHINA - Yunnan, women in local dress

14 days from £7,810 for 2023

Take your family on an authentic holiday of a lifetime to experience China’s classic sights in immersive and interactive ways....

View here

A Jewish Heritage Tour of China

Jewish Tour Of China 2

12 days from £7,050 for 2023

Explore China’s Jewish past on this special Jewish Heritage Tour that will take you to China’s historic Jewish hubs of...

View here

A Jewish Heritage Tour of India

Jewish Heritage Tour Of India Mumbai 5

15 days from £8,360 for 2023

Journey through India’s Jewish past and present on this special tour of her Jewish heritage hubs – Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta...

View here

A Royal Visit to North India & Bhutan

NORTH INDIA - The Imperial, Delhi, North India - Jaguar at the main porch

23 days from £16,940 for 2023

Follow the royal connections between England and the Indian Subcontinent, which have existed since the majestic days of the Raj...

View here

Ancient India: A Historical Journey through Central India

Ahilya Fort, Maheshwar, North India (1).jpg

16 days from £6,820 for 2023

Central India is home to the country’s most ancient cultural sites. A hugely underrated region and an Ampersand favourite, the...

View here

Ampersand’s Signature Sri Lanka Tour

Ulagalla Anuradhapura SRI LANKA 16

16 days from £7,975 for 2023

If money was no object this would be our ideal cultural tour of Sri Lanka. This in-depth tour encompasses the...

View here

Autumn Leaves in Japan

Autumn Leaves In Japan 5

15 days from £9,240 for 2023

Like their European namesake, the Japan Alps can be explored at any time of year. In the winter, Hakuba ski...

View here

Best of the Best in Burma... The Ultimate Luxury Tour

BURMA Governors Residence Yangon 17

15 days from £8,250 for 2023

It is no secret that Burma is a cultural treasure trove, but for those of you who love luxury too,...

View here

Beyond the Sky... Uma Punakha & Uma Paro

BHUTAN UMA Paro Paro 20

8 days from £6,545 for 2023

Perfect for both family holidays and honeymoons, Bhutan remains an exclusive, romantic and adventurous destination. COMO Hotels, with the addition...

View here

Boutique Indonesia... Sun, Sand & Stylish Hotels in Lombok, Bali & Moyo Island

Jeeva Beloam Beach Camp Lombok Indonesia 69

15 days from £9,700 for 2023

This quirky tour spans the tropical islands of Lombok, Bali and Moyo Island staying in some of Indonesia’s most stylish...

View here

Boutique Rajasthan... Romance, Culture & Heavenly Hotels

NORTH INDIA - Samode Palace Rooftop Pool

18 days from £7,300 for 2023

Here at Ampersand we like to do things differently, so on this itinerary you won’t find any one night stops...

View here

Burma... Return to the Golden Land

BURMA Governors Residence Yangon 13

12 days from £5,775 for 2023

With so much to see and experience, Burma is not a one-time destination. This itinerary is perfect for those looking...

View here

Cheeky Monkeys, Blue Whales and King Coconuts… Family Fun in Sri Lanka

Bar Reef, Kalpitya, Sri Lanka (18).jpg

16 days from £7,425 for 2023

This itinerary was created for families young or old who love little adventures and wildlife. It is the perfect way...

View here

China & Burma: Style, Substance & Spirit

BURMA - religious statue

14 days from £7,810 for 2023

China and Burma, both substantial cultural identities, yet despite being neighbours, are lightyears apart. Discover the magic of these two...

View here

Classic Island Tour of Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA - 1 Buddha

16 days from £8,745 for 2023

This in-depth tour encompasses all the major sites of the Cultural Triangle before taking a leisurely route through the centre...

View here

Classic Kerala Holiday... Beautiful Beaches & Balmy Backwaters in South India

Classic Kerala Itinerary

13 days from £5,280 for 2023

A relaxed introduction to the diverse and beautiful state of Kerala, loved for her friendly charm, incredible Keralan cuisine and...

View here

Classic Tour of Vietnam & Cambodia’s Temples of Angkor

VIETNAM Street Scene Hanoi

13 days from £5,940 for 2023

This is one of our most popular trips and constantly gets marvellous feedback from clients. It includes a very extensive...

View here

Colours of Rajasthan, North India

women-sharing-a-joke-on-the-streets-of-jodhpur

16 days from £6,900 for 2023

This is a wonderfully vibrant way to experience India: from bustling Delhi and the impressive Taj Mahal to the 'Pink City'...

View here

Deccan Discovery... Archaeology, Ancient Temples & Train Journeys in South India

Deccan Discovery Itinerary

14 days from £7,480 for 2023

This extraordinary itinerary provides comfortable access to some of the most beautiful locations in southern India and to the Deccan,...

View here

Dynastic Discovery: Exploring China's Heartland

Dynastic Discovery Exploring Chinas Heartland 4

13 days from £7,150 for 2023

Gazing into the enigmatic eyes of a two millenia old terracotta warrior and knowing that he and every single one...

View here

East to West: A Journey Through Bhutan

East To West A Journey Though Bhutan

17 days from £8,250 for 2023

If you like to be a pioneer then this itinerary will take you to places few non-Bhutanese have ever seen....

View here

Essential India... Our Comprehensive Tour of North & South India

Essential India Itinerary 640

15 days from £6,420 for 2023

This itinerary is one of our absolute favourites. It combines the fascinating historical and natural gems of the northern regions...

View here

Family Adventure in Japan

Family Adventure In Japan 2

13 days from £8,470 for 2023

Japan offers endless fun for big kids and little kids alike. This itinerary encapsulates all that is weird and wonderful...

View here

Far from the madding crowd: rural highlights of Southern China

Far From The Madding Crowd Rural Highlights Of Southern China 14

18 days from £9,680 for 2023

Modern China has redefined the phrase 'concrete jungle'. However, there are countless rural idylls to be found spread across the...

View here

From Bhutan to India’s Andaman Islands... A Romantic Adventure from Mountain to Beach

South India Andaman Islands Havelock

14 days from £6,215 for 2023

Bhutan and the Andamans could hardly be more different, a fantastic itinerary of mountain peaks and tropical reefs…

View here

Gardens, Architecture and Customs of Japan

Gardens Architecture And Customs Of Japan 1

14 days from £8,580 for 2023

From the Imperial Palace gardens to the zen-inspired grounds of ancient temples, Japan is an ideal destination for lovers of...

View here

Leela Palaces: Gems of North & South India

The Leela Palace, Udaipur, North India (6).JPG

11 days from £6,600 for 2023

This leisurely journey takes in North India’s classic sights: Imperial Delhi, the ‘Lake City’ of Udaipur, the Bollywood scene in...

View here

Gently Down The Ganges... A Slow & Spiritual Boat Journey in North India

Varanasi, North India (2).jpg

16 days from £6,710 for 2023

The Ganges River has long been a draw to the Hindu faithful and foreign travellers alike. With the introduction of...

View here

Geoffrey Bawa; An Architectural Tour of Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA - Lunuganga Sri Lanka

13 days from £6,600 for 2023

This tour draws pure inspiration from the late and talented architect, Geoffrey Bawa and visits the places he lived in,...

View here

Grand Tour of Nepal

Grand Tour Of Nepal Itinerary 3

12 days from £4,590 for 2023

This itinerary includes the best of Nepal: the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley, jungle safaris in Chitwan...

View here

Grand Tour of North India... Our Favourite Luxury India Holiday

NORTH INDIA - Jodhpur

17 days from £9,680 for 2023

Named the Grand Tour for good reason! Experience Delhi, the majestic Taj Mahal, the sacred city of Varanasi and Khajuraho...

View here

Grand Tour of South India... Our Signature Family-friendly Holiday

SOUTH INDIA - Tamil Nadu (8)

20 days from £10,340 for 2023

This fabulous journey cherry-picks the region's highlights, from the colonial charm of Cochin and the buzzing temple-town of Madurai to the...

View here

Himalayan Odyssey... North India's Finest Monasteries, Temples & Spas

Ananda In The Himalayas Rishikesh North India 23

15 days from £6,380 for 2023

A delightful tour starting with the incredible Golden Temple in Amritsar, followed by travels through the scenic foothills of the...

View here

Holy Cities & Sacred Rivers of North India

Amritsar, Golden Temple.jpg

14 days from £6,820 for 2023

Explore India’s most sacred cities and rivers including Amritsar, Khajuraho, Varanasi and Calcutta. See Amritsar’s beautiful Golden Temple, the centre...

View here

If Tarzan went to Sri Lanka...

If Tarzan Went To Sri Lanka Itinerary

19 days from £9,405 for 2023

This tour is an Ampersand favourite! If Tarzan went to Sri Lanka we are sure that he would do something...

View here

India & China; Past, Present & Future

NORTH INDIA - Ganges, Varanasi

20 days from £11,880 for 2023

Combine two of the world’s largest and oldest countries on an immersive and epic tailor-made holiday to India and China.

View here

India with Aman: A sophisticated journey for the senses

Amanbagh, Ajabgarh, North India (22).jpg

9 days from £5,720 for 2023

India is a divine destination for an Aman journey. The rich culture you'll discover here is a delightful sensory whirlwind....

View here

A Week at Six Senses Vana - India’s Ultimate Wellness Retreat

VANA Malsi Estate Dehradun North India Shared Spaces Yoga Temple 2

8 days from £4,595 for 2024

Indulge in the ultimate restorative break: 8 days at Asia’s most innovative yet authentic wellness retreat, Six Senses Vana in...

View here

Introduction to Nepal

NEPAL Kathmandu Temple

8 days from £2,925 for 2023

The perfect short tour of Nepal combining its cultural and scenic wonders. Explore ancient Hindu and Buddhist sites in Kathmandu;...

View here

Japan: A Perfect Introduction

Unmissable Japan 1

10 days from £6,710 for 2023

Japan is a varied and culturally rich country which rewards repeat visits. First-timers can cover a lot of ground culturally...

View here

Japan’s Coasts and Countryside

Cities Coasts And Countryside

15 days from £9,240 for 2023

The great bustling cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima are rich with the history and culture of Japan, from its...

View here

Lions & Wolves: Gujarat’s Exceptional Wildlife

Asiatic Lion Gir National Park Gujurat 1

13 days from £6,380 for 2023

Experience the rare wildlife and pristine landscapes of Gujarat on an all-encompassing wildlife itinerary to track the elusive Asiatic lions.

View here

Luxury Adventure in Nepal

Introduction to Nepal and Bhutan itinerary (1)

12 days from £4,295 for 2023

From the Himalayan mountains to the jungle habitats of the tiger, this itinerary combines adventure with the best of Nepal:...

View here

Luxury For Less... Oberoi’s 2022 Unforgettable Getaways

NORTH INDIA - Taj Mahal, view from The Oberoi

10 days from £5,940 for 2023

This tour visits the Golden Triangle region of Northern India whilst staying at the some of the finest hotels in...

View here

Best of Bhutan: The Ultimate Luxury Grand Tour

Six Senses, Thimphu, Bhutan.jpg

13 days from £11,220 for 2023

This is our most extensive and exclusive tour of Bhutan – perfect for people who want to look under every...

View here

Luxury Indonesian Island Tour... Aman Bali & Beyond

Amanwana Moyo Island Eastern Indonesia Indonesia Ampersand Travel 13

11 days from £8,250 for 2023

Begin at the Amandari in Ubud, Bali, set amidst forests, rivers and emerald rice paddies. Next, to the Amanwana for...

View here

Mystical Tamil Nadu... Our Sacred South India Tour

Madurai Tamil Nadu South India 4

14 days from £6,820 for 2023

Exploring the myths and legends of the sacred south-east, this journey encapsulates the essence of the spiritual state of Tamil...

View here

Nihi Sumba Island... Indonesia’s Most Romantic Island Hideaway

INDONESIA Nihiwatu 5

9 days from £8,125 for 2023

Just one hour's flight from Bali, Nihi Sumba Island is a small and exclusive resort in remote eastern Indonesia –...

View here

Rajasthani Nights - Luxury Desert Tour of North India

NORTH INDIA - Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, North India.jpg

12 days from £5,280 for 2023

Covering Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Rohet and Osian, this itinerary is perfect for those who enjoy vast natural landscapes, wildlife, colourful Rajasthani...

View here

Retracing China's Ancient Tea and Horse Caravan Trail

Lijiang Yunnan China 1

12 days from £6,380 for 2023

Jeff Fuchs’ expert led expedition along the unexplored sections of the Ancient Tea and Horse Caravan Road. Explore the diversity...

View here

Sensational Bali, Indonesia with Alila Villas

INDONESIA Alila Uluwatu Bali Indonesia 1

8 days from £5,775 for 2023

This deliciously indulgent holiday captures the very best of Bali staying exclusively with Alila Villas properties. Start with three nights...

View here

Southern Vietnam & Cambodia’s Ancient Kingdom of Angkor

CAMBODIA Siem Reap Raffles D Angkor Hotel At Night

12 days from £7,040 for 2023

Go beyond the traditional tourist trails on this overland journey combining southern Vietnam and Cambodia. Begin in the bustling and...

View here

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle & Beach

Sigiriya_lion_rock_aerial 2019.jpg

14 days from £7,260 for 2023

This tour offers both an insightful view to Sri Lanka's history as well a relaxing coastal break enjoying the island's...

View here

Taj Palace Tour... The Ultimate Indian Indulgence

NORTH INDIA - Rambagh Palace

16 days from £9,900 for 2023

A combination of what we do best, this 17 day tour blends opulent luxury with the best of Indian culture....

View here

Tamil Nadu & Kerala... A Luxury Tailor-made Tour of South India

South India Chinese Fishingnets Fort Cochin

15 days from £7,920 for 2023

Towering temples, mist shrouded hills and palm fringed beaches are just a few of the incredible sights that await you...

View here

Temples & Volcanoes of Central Java, Indonesia

Central Java and its Volcanic Peaks - Indonesia itinerary (2)

11 days from £6,990 for 2023

Discover Indonesia’s most populated island in this tailor-made itinerary. From the bustling streets of Yogyakarta to the rural idyll of...

View here

Temples, Tribes & Textiles of Gujarat – A Cultural Tour of West India

Temples Tribes And Textiles Of Gujarat Itinerary 2

12 days from £5,500 for 2023

Explore colourful tribes, exotic textiles and glorious temples in Gujarat. Next, venture from the undulating Aravalli Hills to the salt...

View here

The Best of Luxury Bali, Indonesia... The Ultimate Aman Experience

INDONESIA Amandari Villa Home 1

8 days from £7,200 for 2023

Start at the Amankila – a wonderful sanctuary for romantic, spiritual and active pursuits. Continue to the Amandari in the...

View here

The Cultural Gems of Indochina... Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia

The Gems Of Indochina Itinerary 3

9 days from £5,280 for 2023

This trip gives you the perfect taste of Indochina in under two weeks. Despite travelling through three countries – Vietnam,...

View here

The Golden Land of Burma… A Luxury Tour

BURMA - Bagan - Shwezigon Paya

12 days from £5,970 for 2023

Having recently returned from Burma, James & Mark have put together their ideal trip to the 'Golden Land' using their...

View here

The Hidden Beaches of the Andaman Islands

Jalakara Andaman Islands South India 2

11 days from £6,380 for 2023

Explore the hidden beaches and secret gems of India’s underrated and laid-back Andaman Islands on this relaxing 12-day itinerary.

View here

The Historical Treasures & Natural Wonders of Laos

LAOS Luang Prabang Golden Temple

14 days from £7,370 for 2023

Uncover the charm and cultural gems of this utterly alluring country on this perfect introductory tailor-made itinerary. Travel from south...

View here

The Length of the Bullet Train Line in Japan

Length Of The Bullet Train Line 16

19 days from £13,310 for 2023

With two recent extensions to Aomori in the north and Kagoshima to the south, the bullet train line now runs...

View here

The Most Spectacular Festival in Sri Lanka - Esala Perahera

Sri Lanka Cultural Triangle And Beach Itinerary 2

10 days from £5,280 for 2023

This variety packed tour gives you an in depth insight into what Sri Lanka is all about. Take part in...

View here

Belmond's Road to Mandalay... Burma by Boat

The Road To Mandalay Bagan Burma 1  (1)

11 days from £4,565 for 2023

Meandering up the Irrawaddy on a luxury river boat is a wonderful and relaxing way to experience Burma. As this...

View here

The Ultimate Burma Tour... No Stone Left Unturned

BURMA - U Bein Bridge, Mandalay

21 days from £9,350 for 2023

This is our definitive Burma itinerary. As well as taking in all the major sites, this journey showcases all of...

View here

Tiger Blue, Indonesia: The Ultimate Sea Safari

Tiger Blue, Indonesia: The Ultimate Sea Safari

11 days from £5,500 for 2023

Make it up as you go along on the ultimate Indonesian sea safari. Any stay on board the Tiger Blue...

View here

Travel East Asia in Luxurious Style with Aman Resorts

Aman SEA Tour VIETNAM Amanoi Vinh Hy Bay Vietnam 2

17 days from £14,080 for 2022

Experience the beauty of Southeast Asia on this 18 day tour while staying exclusively at Aman proprieties. Observe the brand’s...

View here

Ultimate Helicopter Tour of Nepal

Ultimate Helicopter Tour Of Nepal Itinerary

15 days from £15,290 for 2023

A real holiday of a lifetime around Nepal by private helicopter with an expert guide throughout – on foot this...

View here

Ultimate Luxury Tour of Japan

Best Of The Best In Japan 9

12 days from £9,740 for 2023

Japan has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, and it has a number of super-luxe accommodation options to match....

View here

Wellness and Discovery at COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali, Indonesia

Wellness And Discovery Como Shambhala Bali 3

7 days from £4,950 for 2023

Whether you want total relaxation, post-natal fitness or to improve your athletic performance, this package is the perfect introduction to...

View here

Bhutan’s Beautiful Black Necked Cranes

Gangtey, Bhutan (9).jpg

10 days from £8,415 for 2023

The best time for spotting the beautiful Black Neck Crane is from early December to mid-March. This is a great...

View here

Wonders of the Ancient World... Grand Archaeological Tour of Indonesia, Burma & Cambodia

Wonders Of The Ancient World Itinerary 11

11 days from £8,360 for 2023

If you are interested in ancient history and love to travel in style, this is the ultimate itinerary for you....

View here

Client Testimonials

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences