Off-Grid Asia: Three Remote Regions to Rediscover

Across Asia, there are regions where switching off feels easier than others. In these destinations, landscapes take over, normal life slowly fades away and new, calmer daily routines emerge; something that most of us are looking for at this time of year.

Below, we’ve shared three remote regions that offer a compelling blend of thoughtful and locally-inspired design, landscape-driven experiences and genuine cultural insight.

 

1. Mai Châu, Vietnam - Mountain Quietude

In Vietnam’s northern Mai Châu province, terraced hillsides, bamboo forests and stilt-house villages create a landscape defined by its valleys and surrounding forests. Avana Retreat sits nestled within this terrain, with stone and thatch villas facing out onto lush rice terraces.

Days are spent exploring villages of the Thai and Hmong people, guided forest walks, swimming beneath the retreat’s natural falls, practicing sunrise yoga or simply taking in the landscape from the hillside infinity pool, while watching valley weather move across the hills. 

It feels remote in the best way, with an experience shaped by local craftsmanship and true cultural context rather than excessive luxury.

For travellers seeking a rural off-grid retreat with a strong sense of place, Avana remains one of Vietnam’s most interesting options.

 

2. Raja Ampat, Indonesia - Remote Island Life

Raja Ampat continues to stand as one of Asia’s most extraordinary off-grid destinations - a region of limestone karsts, unspoilt bays and turquoise reefs that are among the most biodiverse anywhere in the world. 

Aboard Vela, a contemporary phinisi-style yacht, travel takes on an unhurried pace - days are made up of early swims and coral gardens that shift in colour with every change of light.

Cabins are spacious and refined, and the crew’s knowledge opens access to lesser-known islands and wildlife encounters: birds-of-paradise at dawn, reefs far from regular charter routes and mantas gliding beneath the hull. 

Connectivity is minimal, but the sense of immersion is complete - a way to experience Raja Ampat without altering its essential wilderness.

3. Phonjikha Valley, Bhutan - Landscape, Tradition & Open Space

Bhutan’s Phobjikha Valley - also known as Gangtey - offers a different kind of off-grid experience - one shaped not just by remoteness but tradition. 

This glacial valley is home to wintering black-necked cranes, the famous Gangtey Monastery and a network of footpaths linking farms and pine forests.

Luxurious lodges such as Gangtey Lodge and Six Senses Gangtey mirror the valley’s character with timber interiors, expansive views and a design language that sits comfortably within the landscape and feels authentic.

Days follow the slow pace of the valley itself: monastery visits, peaceful forest walks, bird-watching… or just time spent observing the natural patterns that define this very special part of Bhutan.

What links these three destinations is clarity: landscapes that take precedence, design that respects its setting and an experience led by environment and culture rather than technology. They offer an off-grid journey that feels connected, considered and lasting.

Thinking about an off-grid journey? Our specialists can design an itinerary shaped by genuine regional insight. Get in touch with our team at info@ampersandtravel.com.