Best Holidays for Seniors in South Asia

Over a lifetime, one gathers a rich collection of memories... Hearing the laughter of lifelong friends on holiday, the scent of morning coffee drifting through camp on your first safari, the warmth of sun on your back as you stroll through a new city. With more time, freedom, and curiosity than ever before, now is the moment to explore a world that engages not just your mind, but every sense.

Getting older doesn't mean slowing down. In fact, for many older couples, the years of hard work are culminating in the ultimate reward: luxury holidays for over 50s and seniors in the Indian Subcontinent.

The Art of Arrival

Rather than rushing from place to place, begin your journey with a moment to pause. A soft landing helps you climatise and ease into the rhythm of the destination.

India: Ease into the country at The Imperial, New Delhi. Its palm-lined courtyards and colonial elegance offer a gentle transition into the lively pulse of India’s capital.

Nepal: Embrace the spiritual grandeur of Nepal with a peaceful retreat in the Kathmandu Valley. A stay at Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu allows for quiet reflection amidst exquisite Newari architecture.

Bhutan: Land in Paro and settle into COMO Uma Paro. Surrounded by nature and traditional Bhutanese hospitality, it’s a wonderful place to adjust to the altitude and tune into Bhutan’s peaceful pace.

Sense Your Way Through South Asia

As you may have heard before, the Indian Subcontinent is a feast for the senses. It’s perfectly suited as an activity packed holiday for older adults who crave more than just a view. Here's how to experience each of the five senses across its most enchanting corners.

India

• What to See: Marvel at the architectural majesty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise on an exclusive tour or explore Jaipur’s Amber Fort bathed in golden afternoon light. The pink, blue, and yellow cities of Rajasthan are also an unmissable expedition.
• What to Taste: Join a spice market tour in Delhi—sampling street food delicacies under the guidance of a local expert. Then, embark on a hands-on cooking class in Udaipur. Later, dine on fragrant, creamy curries made with fresh, local ingredients.
• What to Hear: Wake to the calls of temple bells in Varanasi or listen to the melodic chants of morning aarti by the Ganges.
• What to Touch: Try your hand at block printing in Jaipur’s artisan workshops.
• What to Smell: In Kerala, stay at Spice Village, a sustainable eco-resort near the Periyar Reserve. Join guided walks through nearby spice gardens, where the air is rich with the scent of cardamom, clove and pepper. Learn how these aromatic treasures are cultivated, harvested and used in daily life.

Find out more about what to do and where to stay in India.

Nepal

• What to See: Visit the towering Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu at golden hour, when the low light catches the gilded spire. Watch as monks circle its white dome in quiet meditation, prayer wheels spinning gently in their hands.
• What to Taste: Step into a family kitchen in Kathmandu for a momo-making class, where you'll learn the delicate art of folding and steaming Nepal’s favourite dumplings alongside gracious local hosts.
• What to Hear: Listen to the soft clang of bells in the ancient courtyards of Patan Durbar Square, alongside a specialist guide.
• What to Touch: In Bhaktapur’s historic Pottery Square, join a local artisan to learn the ancient craft of Nepalese pottery. Under expert guidance, shape clay on a traditional wheel—an experience that not only connects you with centuries-old craftsmanship but also offers a mindful moment of stillness.
• What to Smell: Wander through Patan’s morning flower market where incense and fresh jasmine garlands infuse the pungent air.

Explore our guide to Nepal for everything you need to know before travelling.

Bhutan

• What to See: Watch as monks in red robes twirl and leap in sacred mask dances at the Paro Tsechu festival.
• What to Taste: Visit the Red Panda Beer Factory in Bumthang—Bhutan’s first and only microbrewery. Small-batch beer is crafted with Himalayan spring water and exudes aromas of banana, clove and citrus, best enjoyed alongside a tasting of locally made yak’s milk cheese.
• What to Hear: Enjoy the chanting of monks at dawn in cliffside monasteries, as their voices echo through the Himalayas.
• What to Touch: Under the guidance of Lam Rinzin, a revered practitioner from the Paro Dophu Kutay-thang Ka temple, enjoy a prayer flag printing experience whilst staying at COMO Uma Paro.
• What to Smell: Stop at a family-run incense workshop in Thimphu and breathe in the scent of pine resin, saffron and sacred woods being blended by hand.

Discover more reasons why you should travel to Bhutan.

The Mahlatini Difference

We specialise in crafting truly bespoke luxury holidays, ensuring every detail caters to your preferences. For senior holidays, we understand the nuances of comfort, accessibility, and the desire for authentic, unhurried experiences.

• Pacing Perfection: We meticulously plan itineraries that allow for a relaxed pace, with ample downtime, late starts, and opportunities to simply absorb your surroundings.
• Seamless Logistics: From private transfers to carefully selected, senior-friendly accommodation, every logistical element is handled with precision.
• Expert Guidance: Our team boasts unparalleled firsthand knowledge of the region, allowing us to recommend exclusive experiences and accommodation perfectly suited for the best holidays for senior citizens and over 50s. We can also advise on destinations that don’t charge a fee for solo travellers, should that be part of your travel plans.

Getting older doesn't mean you have to compromise on adventure. In fact, it often means having the time, wisdom, and means to embark on the most meaningful journeys of your life. Ready to embrace your golden years in full colour? Let us help you plan a luxury senior holiday that awakens your senses and rekindles your sense of wonder today.