Theme for a dream

The ancient cultures of the Indian subcontinent gave rise to many of the wellness and spa techniques that are known in the world today. From Bhutan, where the hot springs and the flora with their medicinal value are a treasure trove of medicinal goodness, to Nepal where the tranquil teachings of Buddhism help one facilitate meditation in an environment of pure beauty surrounded by the majestic mountains, to India where Ayurveda and Yoga were discovered and practiced as a way of rejuvenating and rediscovering yourself, the three countries are a treasure trove of wellness options.

The Indian subcontinent offers a full range of thrilling and unique adventures, waiting to be discovered. In Bhutan try fishing in lakes that perfectly reflect the Himalayas or go mountain biking through scenic trails discovering verdant valleys along the way and villages where time had stopped. Enjoy camping under the stars in Nepal after having completed the Annapurna trek and pinch yourself to realize you are not dreaming up the beauty of Nature that surrounds you. Take the awe-inspiring Everest flight which puts in perspective how insignificant we are compared to the mighty Himalayas. While in India, self-drive your way to the valley of Leh and Ladakh passing through the highest motorable path in the world, or try river rafting the white waters of the mighty Ganges as she makes her way down to the plains. These are just some of the many choices available to you on your next trip to our corner of the world.

It’s very hard to define the cuisine of Indian subcontinent given the sheer variety available. From the simple, but spicy Ema Datshi in Bhutan that makes your toes curl, to the warm, satisfying and wholesome taste of the Thukpa in Nepal that is a perfect dish when you are in the foothills of the Himalayas, to the many options available in India, like chicken tikka masala, pulao or the ever-popular curry, you will be spoilt for choice. From rich dishes served in restaurants, to the wholesome and satisfying food cooked by a housewife to the finger licking street food, you will never be able to do full justice to the cuisine and will have to just come back for more.

The art and cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent is inherently linked with its religion. The manifestations of different religions in the three sister countries of India, Nepal, and Bhutan can be found in every aspect of locals’ lives, especially in their distinctive architecture – the intricate carvings on ancient temples, monasteries, and shrines never cease to amaze travellers. From festivals and dances to food and clothes, the countries have interlaced their past and present, and the result is a region that takes prides in its roots. The diversity of customs, traditions, languages, and people is what makes the Indian subcontinent fascinating as you find yourself surrounded by such contrasts. With changing times, the countries have found fresher perspectives, but lingering influences remain. As the weaving machines replace the traditional loom, local weavers in Indian villages still keep and pass down secrets of their trade to younger generations; in the neighbouring countries of Nepal and Bhutan, the Thangka paintings that date back to the 11th century are still popular. Delve deeper into the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan, known as Zorig Chusum, at The Institute of Zorig Chusum in Thimphu; take some time out to see private and government-run galleries in Indian metro cities that display collections dating back centuries; or plan your trip around the Kathmandu International Art Festival in 2017 (it is hosted every three years) to get an insight into the modern art scene in Nepal. One trip may not be enough to learn about this region and you will definitely want to return for another round.