April 2025
Family travel, unforgettable experiences for everyone, exciting journeys, unmissable offers, and so much more to discover in South Asia
Keeping you in the know…
Click on the below hyperlinks to be taken directly to your updates of interest.
Whether it’s exhilarating treks, tranquil escapes, or immersive cultural experiences, we’re here to help you create bespoke itineraries that showcase the true essence of South Asia. From heart-pumping adventures to moments of total relaxation—or the ideal blend of both—our carefully curated experiences are crafted to leave a lasting impression on your guests. And with our exceptional offers, every journey becomes even more unforgettable.
Lodge updates
Stay up to date with the latest lodge happenings to enhance your guests’ experience.
&Beyond Punakha River Lodge
Important &Beyond Punakha River Lodge updates:
2025 Signature Offers
We have updated the validity dates on the following offers for remainder of the year:
- Milestone Celebrations Offer: Valid between 01 May – 30 September and 01 – 31 December 2025
- Punakha Honeymoon Offer: Valid for the whole year from 01 January – 31 December 2025
Triple room lodge policy
We have updated our lodge policy.
- Triple Suite: In the Tented Suite, the triple occupancy is only permitted for children aged 5 years and under sharing with adults. Please note that triple occupancy is available on a request basis only.
- 1-Bedroom and 2-Bedroom Villa Triple: Only one triple room is available, and it is subject to availability. Triple occupancy is offered on a request basis only.
Lodge Rate Sheet updates
We have updated the layout of our Lodge Rate Sheets ensuring a far more user-friendly experience.
- Tour Leader rate: The Tour Leader rate has been removed from our rate sheets.
- Rate inclusions: Our lodge rate inclusions now include morning yoga, mountain biking, archery and darts as well as traditional cooking classes.
Any 2025 existing bookings will be honoured, and the changes has already been made to our 2026 Lodge Accommodation Rate Sheet which was launched on 07 March 2025.
Please download the updated 2025 Lodge Accommodation Rate Sheet
The Ultimate Honeymoon in Bhutan
Punakha | Paro
Guests can celebrate their union in the last remaining Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan on an intimate and romantic 6-day escape uncovering magnificent mountain scenery, incredible architecture and fascinating culture.
Read what Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report had to say:
As 2024 came to an end, the newsletter named &Beyond Punakha River Lodge its “Hideaway of the Year.” It went on to report, “The local and international cuisine was unfailingly delicious.”
The lodge also received the “Staff of the Year” award.
“The service managed to be personable but professional, and attentive without being overbearing – tricky to achieve. Sometimes the employees seemed positively psychic. Whenever we left our suite, we returned to find it tidied, yet we never once interrupted a housekeeper. Elsewhere, the staff proved adept at creating memorable moments, like riverside sundowners by a fire. The level of service here would be a credit to any hotel.”
Stay 3, SDF Free at Punakha
&Beyond Punakha River Lodge
Stay for three nights or more at &Beyond Punakha River Lodge, and we’ll cover your guests’ Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), allowing them to become immersed in the wonders of this Himalayan kingdom without the added cost.
Wellness Masters in Residence
Deeper healing. Limited-time guidance.
Launching in September 2025 and May 2026, this seasonal wellness programme welcomes internationally renowned holistic practitioners to lead immersive residencies at &Beyond Punakha River Lodge.
Designed to elevate the lodge’s existing year-round wellness offering, these limited programmes include daily group sessions (included in stay) and the opportunity to book one-on-one healing appointments tailored to each individual’s healing journey.
Reminder of our existing offers for &Beyond Punakha River Lodge
Let us help your guests discover the best of Bhutan.
We love sharing in your guests’ special occasions, which is why we’ve designed a few incredible offers to ensure these precious moments are even more memorable when celebrated with us.
Milestone Celebrations Offer
&Beyond Punakha River Lodge
Guests celebrating their next ‘milestone’ anniversary or birthday at &Beyond Punakha River Lodge will receive a 20% discount on their accommodation.
Honeymoon Special Offer
&Beyond Punakha River Lodge
Save 50% on one partner’s accommodation when guests stay at &Beyond Punakha River Lodge – an idyllic and spiritually enriching honeymoon destination nestled amidst the majestic Himalaya mountains.
What to do
Discover new itineraries, insider tips, and must-visit attractions to make your guests' stay unforgettable.
Bhutan – Land of the Thunder Dragon
Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum
TIME: World’s Greatest Places of 2025 list
Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum in Jakar, Bhutan, has been recognised in TIME’s prestigious World’s Greatest Places of 2025 list. As Bhutan’s oldest palace and the birthplace of the country’s first King, it offers an extraordinary window into the nation’s rich heritage.
Carefully restored since 2012, the museum now houses 27 gallery rooms featuring rare artefacts, ancient manuscripts, and cultural exhibits brought to life with artistic contributions from VAST Bhutan. Visitors can delve into Bhutanese history, engage with interactive displays, and relax at the museum’s café — the only contemporary addition to this treasured landmark.
Festivals in South Asia to book now
A celebration of colour and culture.
The region throbs with a vibrant calendar of festivals, each a unique kaleidoscope of dance, tradition, and joy. From the electrifying energy of music festivals to the soul-stirring solemnity of religious celebrations, these events offer a window into the heart of Asia’s revered cultures.
India – A land of vibrant diversity
Smritivan Earthquake Museum
Bhuj
Recently awarded the Prix Versailles Prize for Architecture and Design, this museum has been recognised as one of the world’s most beautiful.
Divided into seven thematic galleries, each section tells a powerful story of resilience and renewal following the devastating 2001 Kutch earthquake.
Hiking through Ladakh
Nomadic Trails
Nestled in the heart of the Trans-Himalayan region, Ladakh is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and boundless adventure. With its rugged mountains, tranquil valleys, and deep spiritual heritage, this mystical region offers an immersive experience for families seeking to connect with nature, culture, and each other.
At the core of Ladakh’s cultural identity is Buddhism, which influences every aspect of daily life. Visitors will encounter ancient monasteries perched on dramatic cliffs, prayer flags dancing in the wind, and the calming hum of monks chanting in meditation halls. Families will have the chance to explore some of Ladakh’s most revered monastic sites, gaining rare insight into a way of life that has endured for centuries.
We’ve carefully curated interactive experiences that allow visitors of all ages to engage with Ladakh’s landscapes and traditions in meaningful, hands-on ways:
Read More
- Pashmina workshops: Discover the artistry behind Ladakh’s world-renowned Pashmina wool. Learn how it’s harvested and processed and guests can try their hand at traditional spinning and weaving techniques.
- Horse polo matches: Experience the thrill of Ladakh’s favourite sport—high-energy polo played against a stunning mountain backdrop.
- Traditional crafts: Meet local artisans and explore the intricate world of wood carving, thangka painting, and pottery. Your guests can create their own keepsake and take home a piece of Ladakh’s artistic legacy.
- Incredible night sky photography: With some of the clearest night skies on Earth, Ladakh is an astronomer’s paradise. Guests can join for an unforgettable evening of stargazing and astrophotography, where they will capture the brilliance of the Milky Way.
- Hiking adventures: Choose from gentle family-friendly walks to more demanding treks, all offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
- Wildlife encounters: Ladakh is home to an extraordinary range of wildlife, from the elusive snow leopard to Himalayan marmots and blue sheep. Guided wildlife excursions provide a rare chance to observe these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.
New restaurant
1932 Trevi
New restaurants in Jaipur are emerging beyond the walls of traditional hotels, and one of the most exciting additions is 1932 Trevi, launched by the team behind Idyll in Bangalore. This marks the second project by Iris Restaurants, and it’s a striking one.
Set within the expansive lawns of the family-run Santha Bagh Hotel, 1932 Trevi spans a sprawling 14,000 square feet. The Italian restaurant masterfully weaves together Italian and Indian design sensibilities. Wander through Santha Bagh by day and you’ll likely spot peacocks elegantly strutting across the grounds, their feathers dotting the grass. This regal bird, along with the padma or lotus, appears throughout the restaurant—as motifs on the walls, coasters, ashtrays, glassware, furniture, and even on ottomans designed especially for handbags. A standout feature is a block of Italian marble etched with intricate blue and red inlay work, echoing these themes.
The 168-seater restaurant is divided into four distinctive zones:
Read More
- The Plume Bar: Featuring a low-slung, three-foot bar counter that offers guests a clear view of the mixology magic. Metallic peacocks perched atop the lights pay homage to the bar’s name
- The Bagh: An open-air dining space illuminated by hundreds of candles and flickering patio heaters. Gigantic umbrellas shade the seating, while a glossy red piano, checkerboard flooring, and araish plaster accents blend Italian drama with traditional Indian elegance.
- Tuscan Alley: Home to a live Italian kitchen that brings the heart of Tuscany to Jaipur.
- The Trevi Fountain: A charming nod to its Roman namesake, where guests are invited to toss a coin and make a wish—for love, prosperity, or simply a return visit, whether to Rome or Trevi.
Sri Lanka – Island paradise beyond the beaches
Paradise Road lifestyle store
Colombo’s iconic lifestyle brand Paradise Road has unveiled a magnificent new multi-level space at 138 Galle Road, just a short walk from many of the city’s major hotels.
Spanning several floors, the store showcases an eclectic mix of furniture, crockery, objets d’art, and more.
On the first floor, guest will find the PR Concept Store, featuring specially commissioned artworks and unique design pieces. Head up to the second floor, and discover PFSFG—a collaboration between two of Sri Lanka’s leading art galleries, offering a dynamic exhibition calendar throughout the year.
Open daily from 10h00 to 19h00
Skyscape Sri Lanka: Aerial journeys over paradise
Sigiriya | Thirappane | Hanthana | Hatton | Tangalle | Kotugoda
From ancient citadels and lush highlands to sun-drenched beaches and colonial forts, this 13-day adventure offers a blend of cultural immersion, wildlife encounters and luxurious relaxation.
Where to Stay
A few of our favourite partner properties featured this month
Accommodation in India
Marriott International: According to industry sources, Marriott International leads the Indian hospitality sector with approximately 24,000 rooms, followed closely by the Taj Group (around 22,000 rooms), Radisson (about 14,000), ITC Hotels (approximately 13,000), and Accor (about 10,000), with other players following.
Taj Group: Tata’s Taj Group of Hotels, which opened its first property in 1903, currently has a portfolio of 350 hotels, including approximately 120 in the pipeline.
ITC Hotels, which currently operates 140 hotels with 13,000 rooms, is projected to expand to 200 hotels and over 18,000 rooms by 2030.
Odisha (Orissa): Odisha is finally gaining recognition as a destination, with several erstwhile princely estates converting their homes and palaces into unique heritage stays. One such example is the beautifully restored 200-year-old Ramba Palace, located on the serene banks of Chilika Lake. This heritage property recently opened and is situated about two hours from Bhubaneswar Airport.
Accommodation in Nepal
Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights: A new 5-star property managed by Accor, Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights blends modern comfort and stylish design with authentic Nepali heritage. The hotel features 104 well-appointed rooms filled with natural light and offering stunning views of the city, surrounding mountains, and the Himalayas. Guests can enjoy an impressive range of amenities including a rooftop infinity pool, multiple dining options, banquet halls, a rooftop bar and lounge, and a fully equipped fitness centre with steam and sauna.
The Oberoi Group: The Oberois have entered into a partnership with Siddhartha Rana to develop a new 84-room hotel in the Rabi Bhawan area of Kathmandu, expected to be completed in three to four years. Additionally, they are collaborating on a luxury jungle lodge in Bardia, near Bardia National Park, under their new brand, Nature by Oberoi. This 22-room eco-lodge is also set to open in about three years.
Accommodation in Sri Lanka
Uga Präva: Opening on 01 May 2025, Uga Präva in Tangalle, on Sri Lanka’s picturesque south coast, will be Uga Escapes’ seventh property. This intimate retreat features seven elegantly designed suites, blending modern minimalism with lush tropical aesthetics.
Named after the Sanskrit word “pravala”, meaning coral, Uga Präva reflects the brand’s commitment to luxury, tranquillity, and nature. The property includes a spa, a recreation room, a fully equipped gym, and a library, offering a holistic escape for discerning travellers.
Things to Know
Latest news, important updates and changes you need to know about
Sri Lanka’s South Coast
This winter’s hottest destination – as seen in Vogue
Sri Lanka has kicked off 2025 on a high note, with rising visitor numbers and a wave of international recognition. From Vogue naming the South Coast as this winter’s hottest destination, to the Colombo–Badulla train journey being ranked among the World’s Top Train Rides for 2025 by Lonely Planet, the island nation is firmly back on the global travel map.
Air travel updates
Bhutan:
Read More
- Bhutan Airlines has recently launched fixed-departure flights connecting Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Bhutan, with plans underway to expand connectivity to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City).
- Druk Air is expanding its fleet with five new Airbus A320s and plans to increase flight frequencies, particularly on popular regional routes.
India:
Read More
New Airports in Mumbai and Delhi NCR
- The highly anticipated Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is set to be operational from early next fiscal year, with an inauguration planned for 17 April.
- Domestic operations are expected to begin by late May, followed by international services in late July.
- Once fully completed across five phases, NMIA will feature two runways and four terminals, eventually accommodating up to 90 million passengers annually.
- Construction has already begun on the second terminal, designed to handle 30 million passengers per year, with a projected launch by March 2028.
Air India’s Ambitious Expansion
- The Tata Group continues to show strong confidence in India’s booming aviation sector.
- Following its USD 70-billion order for 470 aircraft last year, Air India has now added another 100 Airbus jets, bringing its total order to 570 planes.
- Of these, Airbus will deliver 350 aircraft, with six A350s already received and deployed on long-haul international routes.
- The Tatas acquired Air India from the Indian government in 2022, marking a bold new chapter for the national carrier.
Nepal:
Read More
- Sichuan Airlines has begun operating weekly flights between Chengdu and Pokhara.
- Himalayan Airlines is set to launch weekly flights between Pokhara and Lhasa, starting 31 March 2025.
- Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) will reopen in April with expanded taxiways and additional aircraft parking facilities, enhancing capacity and efficiency.
Human Nature: A Walking History of the Himalayan Landscape by Thomas Bell
(Viking, New York / Penguin, London 2024)
In his new book, Thomas Bell takes readers on a captivating journey through four distinct regions of Nepal’s Himalaya, each explored in different seasons and through different thematic lenses. The first chapter, titled Migration, explores eastern Nepal, while the second, Agriculture, traverses the central hills from Chautara to Gorkha. The third chapter, Architecture, ventures into the higher altitudes of upper Dolpo, and the final chapter, Conservation, delves into the western region, from Jhumla to Lake Rara. Bell’s meticulous research is evident throughout his travels, enriching each chapter with insights drawn from his deep engagement with the landscapes he walks through.
Having lived in Nepal for many years as a journalist for The Economist and The Daily Telegraph, and more recently as a Political Officer with the United Nations, Bell brings a unique perspective to his writing. His 2015 book on Kathmandu was widely praised for its engaging and often gripping history of the city. In this new work, Bell extends his narrative beyond the Kathmandu Valley, sharing captivating stories of the people he encounters in the Himalayas. The book also serves as a reflection on environmental history, exploring the complexities and contradictions of conservation efforts in Nepal.
Enlightened Leadership: Inside Bhutan’s Inspiring Transition from Monarchy to Democracy by Tshering Tobgay
(Penguin Random House SEA Singapore, and Penguin New Delhi 2025)
It’s rare for a sitting prime minister to publish a book while still in office, but Tshering Tobgay is no ordinary politician. Bhutan, a small country with a big vision, is led by a leader who doesn’t just speak about progress, but actively fosters it. As he often says, Bhutan isn’t merely carbon neutral—it’s carbon negative.
In this insightful book, Tobgay offers a personal account of Bhutan’s peaceful transition to democracy, its unique approach to climate change, and the administration based on Gross National Happiness. Drawing from his firsthand experiences, he illustrates how these traditional values have unlocked the potential for positive change, unity, and powerful action in the country.
Tobgay’s book provides invaluable insights into leadership, blending ancient wisdom with modern best practices. By emphasizing the role of selfless service, he vividly recounts how these principles of leadership have guided Bhutan through tumultuous times, particularly in the face of climate change. His writing showcases how these values continue to guide the country under the leadership of Bhutan’s revered Kings, combining wisdom, courage, and compassion.
Through heartfelt storytelling, Tobgay also shares his own journey—from his upbringing to entering civil service and the political arena—offering readers a glimpse into a nation deeply rooted in tradition but boldly preparing for the future. The book provides profound lessons on leadership, resilience, and the importance of change.
Partner Resources
Tools for you to use.
Here you will find all the resources you need to be an &BEYOND expert. Specially curated for your convenience, visit our Partner Resources page – your comprehensive toolkit of resources – to help you promote and, where appropriate, encourage you to convert new business.
years