Across Asia, a number of new openings, experiences and travel updates continue to shape the region. From improved access in Bhutan and new itineraries in India and Nepal, to notable new places to stay, this update brings together the latest news from across our destinations, helping you guide your guests with greater insight and confidence.
&BEYOND PUNAKHA RIVER LODGE | NEW PRODUCT | WHAT TO DO | WHERE TO STAY | REGIONAL NEWS | TRAVEL UPDATES
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.
A dedicated helipad has been introduced just 250 m (820 ft) from the lodge, significantly improving accessibility for arriving guests.
Paro is now only a 20-minute flight away, while both Thimphu (to the west) and Gangtey (to the east) are within a short 15-minute drive from the lodge, allowing for seamless onward exploration.
The lodge continues to support nearby Wokuna Primary School, which serves 23 students aged six to ten. Current initiatives include funding a full-time cook to prepare daily meals, as well as contributing to the construction of a fully equipped dining facility.
Gas is also supplied by the lodge, reducing reliance on firewood, while earlier contributions include the donation of computers to enable shared student access.
Guided stargazing experiences led by trained volunteers invite guests to explore Bhutan’s night skies in a more meaningful way.
Guests are encouraged to identify visible planets and constellations, while local interpretations and storytelling weave Bhutanese mythology into the experience, adding depth and cultural context to the evening.
A reminder of our new hosted wellness programme which takes place at &Beyond Punakha River Lodge from 01–31 December 2026, designed to deepen the lodge’s year-round wellbeing offering.
During this period, guests are invited to join scheduled 30-minute group sessions included in their stay, or book a curated selection of highly personalised one-on-one treatments at an additional cost.
Guests begin with five nights at the Red Panda Outpost along the India–Nepal border, hosted by the local community. Set within rhododendron forests beneath four of the world’s five highest peaks, this experience focuses on guided exploration along the Singalila Ridge, with opportunities to track red pandas alongside exceptional birdlife (over 350 recorded species).
The journey then continues to Kanha National Park, one of India’s original Project Tiger reserves. Known for its diverse habitats, from sal and bamboo forests to expansive grasslands, Kanha offers excellent wildlife viewing supported by the Banjaar River, which sustains the park’s abundant
Located in the highlands of Coorg, approximately two hours west of Mysore, this newly opened sanctuary is set across 76 acres (30 hectares) of coffee plantations interwoven with forest. The experience is rooted in the region’s culture and landscape, with opportunities to explore plantation life, engage with local traditions, and enjoy the slower rhythm of this lesser-known part of southern India.
The itinerary begins in Kathmandu, followed by Pokhara, before flying to Jomsom and continuing into Upper Mustang. Guests spend time at Shinta Mani Mustang with guided hikes and cultural immersion, before travelling to Lo Manthang to witness the Tiji Festival. The journey concludes in Kathmandu.
Highlights include the cities of the Kathmandu Valley, outdoor activities in Pokhara (paragliding, cycling and rafting on the Seti River), and wildlife experiences in Chitwan National Park. Here, guests can look for one-horned rhino, gharial crocodiles, sloth bear, leopard and, occasionally, tiger, alongside over 570 bird species.
Sariska Lodge, Rajasthan
Set across 15 acres (6 hectares), Sariska Lodge has been carefully rewilded and developed over three years. The lodge offers ten suites, each with views of the Aravalli Hills or the historic Tehla Fort.
Design is understated and contemporary, with natural materials and neutral tones. Dining is flexible, ranging from the main lodge to outdoor locations such as historic chhatris. The wellness centre is led by Sonam Zangpo (formerly of Aman), offering a blend of Ayurvedic and Tibetan treatments.
The Tehla gate of Sariska Tiger Reserve is less than 150 m (492 ft) away, allowing immediate access to the reserve’s dry deciduous forest. Wildlife includes tiger, leopard, deer species, langur, jackal, and a wide variety of birdlife.
InterContinental Pokhara Resort (Opening 2026):
This new 80-room resort will open on a hillside overlooking Begnas Lake, approximately 30 minutes from Pokhara Airport.
Crowne Plaza Kathmandu Pulchowk (Opening September 2026):
Located in Lalitpur, close to Patan Durbar Square, this property offers convenient access to key cultural sites and is approximately 25 minutes from Tribhuvan International Airport.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kathmandu (Opening 2029):
CG Hospitality has partnered with Marriott International to introduce The Ritz-Carlton brand to Kathmandu. The development will include 150 rooms, branded residences, and a mixed-use complex in the Thamel area.
Home Tale Laya
Recently opened in the remote village of Laya, this small, family-run lodge has been recognised in Time Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places 2026”.
Reached via Gasa (a six-hour drive from Punakha) followed by a scenic mountain drive and hike, the lodge offers access to one of Bhutan’s most remote regions. The four-room property reflects local architecture and culture, with simple, comfortable accommodation and home-style cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
Laya is also home to the annual Royal Highlander Festival in October, celebrating nomadic traditions through events such as horse races and yak displays.
As of 01 January 2026, Bhutan has introduced a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on most goods and services.
For tourism, GST applies to in-country services such as accommodation, guiding, transport, meals and activities. The Sustainable Development Fee (USD 100 per night) and visa fee (USD 40) remain unchanged. This reform is part of a broader fiscal modernisation strategy, rather than a tourism-specific levy. Bhutan continues to position 2026 as a strong travel year, with the reduced SDF in place until August 2027.
The Global GNH Forum will take place in Punakha from 08–12 November 2026, bringing together international voices to explore development through the lens of Gross National Happiness.
While this is not directly impacting travel operations at this stage, we continue to monitor developments and will share updates where relevant.
From 01 April 2026, all foreign nationals and OCI cardholders must complete a digital e-Arrival Card within 72 hours prior to arrival. This replaces the previous paper-based disembarkation form and is intended to streamline immigration processing.
Opened on 28 March 2026, this major new aviation hub near Delhi will begin domestic and cargo operations from April–May 2026, with international flights expected by the end of the year. Located approximately 90 minutes from central Delhi and around two hours from Agra, the airport is set to expand significantly over time.
Drukair will expand its Southeast Asia network from April 2026, reintroducing Bangkok via Guwahati and increasing frequency to Singapore. This improves onward connectivity to Europe, Australia and North America.
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