Best Active Holidays in Asia

Active holidays in Asia are not just about physical activity; they are about immersing yourself in the diverse beauty and culture of this rich continent. Whether trekking through the Himalayas, surfing waves in Sri Lanka, skiing in India or diving in Indonesia, Asia offers a world of adventures that cater to every type of traveller. Get inspired below and browse our itineraries for ideas on how to create your own unforgettable active getaway.

Surfing in Sri Lanka

Known for its long sandy beaches and consistently high-performing waves, Sri Lanka is an emerging hotspot for surfers from around the world. From November to April, the south coast beaches - such as Weligama and Tangalle - provide a range of surf spots suitable for all levels, with numerous surf schools offering lessons and equipment. Beyond surfing, the warm waters, laid-back vibe, and stunning coastal scenery make the south coast a perfect destination for combining beach relaxation with various water activities such as swimming, snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding.

Itinerary: Luxury Surfing in Sri Lanka

Skiing in Japan

Japan, with its renowned powder snow and world-class ski resorts, is a prime destination for skiing enthusiasts. The country’s northern regions, particularly Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps, offer some of the best skiing experiences in Asia. Resorts like Niseko, Hakuba Valley, and Furano are famous for their deep, fluffy snow, often referred to as “Japow.” These resorts cater to all skill levels and provide a range of activities including night skiing, snowboarding, and hot spring baths (onsen) for après-ski relaxation.

Itinerary: Sake, Snow Shrines, Sand & Sushi

Diving in Indonesia

Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, is a dream destination for diving enthusiasts. The country's underwater biodiversity is among the richest in the world, with famous dive sites such as Raja Ampat, Komodo National Park and the Coral Triangle, teeming with incredible coral reefs and diverse marine life. The warm tropical waters and excellent visibility enhance the diving experience and make it a great place for beginners.

Itinerary: Group Diving in Raja Ampat

Itinerary: A Family Diving Holiday from Lombok to Komodo

Trekking in Nepal

Nepal is defined by its dramatic mountain landscape and excellent hiking opportunities that are hard to match anywhere else on earth. Home to Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world at 8,848 meters, the country is completely dominated by the Himalayan range. The Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp treks are among the most popular routes, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. These treks are not only physically challenging, but also immerse you in the local culture, with opportunities to visit traditional villages, temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way.

Itinerary: Luxury Adventure in Nepal

Itinerary: Ultimate Helicopter Tour of Nepal

Golfing in Sri Lanka

If you’re a golfing fanatic, you will already know that Phuket and Bali are great Asian golfing destinations, but Sri Lanka? We think there is no finer destination for golf-loving explorers with several world-class golf courses to be found across the country. The Royal Colombo Golf Club, with its colonial charm, is one of the oldest in Asia, offering a serene escape in the heart of the capital. Up in the highlands, the Victoria Golf & Country Resort near Kandy was voted the best golf course in the sub-continent and offers 517 acres of well-maintained lawns with views over the Knuckles Mountain Range, whilst the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club provides challenging courses surrounded by breathtaking views of tea plantations and misty mountains.

Itinerary: Golfing in Sri Lanka

Birding in India

India is home to 1,314 bird species, making it one of the richest avian habitats in the world and a paradise for birdwatchers. Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan is a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with endemic species, such as the Ibis Bill, Long-tailed Broadbill, Greater Slaty Woodpecker, Collared Falconet, Wallcreeper, 5 species of Vultures, Golden Fronted Leafbird and 3 types of Orioles – Black-hooded, Golden and Maroon. In the Himalayan foothills, the hill state of Uttarakhand offers a huge diversity of birdlife, comprising close to 680 species of birds.

Itinerary: Birding in the Himalayan Foothills

Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a new challenge, Asia offers an incredible array of exciting opportunities for active holidays.

With our expert help you could trek the unforgettable Himalayan landscapes in Nepal, learn to surf in Sri Lanka or go diving with manta rays in Indonesia.

Get in touch to start planning your own bespoke adventure: info@ampersandtravel.com