India possesses a topographically diverse trekking landscape ranging from the arid high-altitude deserts of the Trans-Himalayas to the lush, ancient tropical ridges of the Western Ghats. By leveraging the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, a continuous trekking calendar enabled by regional climate variations, and an abundance of secluded luxury retreats, Greaves’ curated itineraries meld nature, culture, and history into an unforgettable journey.
By day, hike through deep valleys brightened by colorful wildflowers, seek out Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinos, and walk into the past at cliffside gompas and historic palaces. By night, stay in unique heritage properties: sleep beneath the stars in weather-insulated tented palaces, reside in a colonial-style bungalow on a 1,600-acre tea estate, or wake to views of the glistening Indian Ocean from jagged cliff-tops.
Darjeeling & Sikkim, The Eastern Himalayas
Beginning in Kolkata, where Victorian architecture reveals a storied literary history, this journey departs for the “Garden State” of Sikkim to discover the Eastern Himalayas. Witness staggering landscapes from hilltop monasteries like Rumtek and Tashiding, where snow-capped peaks give way to steep, verdant valleys. A primary highlight is a three-night stay at the heritage Glenburn Tea Estate, a working plantation overlooking the Kanchenjunga massif, where guests can enjoy private tours and “river hikes” to the banks of the Rangeet River.
Sri Lanka Luxury Trails
In the southwestern corner of Sri Lanka, explore lush tea plantations, iconic coconut trees along the idyllic coast, and the fortified city of Galle. This UNESCO World Heritage site oozes old-world Dutch charm. Travel by scenic train through the countryside and stay in marble-clad manor houses or historic tea bungalows, all immaculately restored to preserve the charm of a bygone era. This journey is elevated by immersive walks through the tea gardens with a resident planter, where you can learn the history of Ceylon tea while exploring the mist-covered ridges on foot.
Malabar Coast Escape
Where balmy sunshine mingles with the ocean breeze, the Malabar coastline beckons with sleepy villages and impressive emerald-cloaked vistas. Forgotten stories are revealed in the churches of Kochi, where you’ll witness the ancient art of Kathakali. Ascend into the rolling hills of Munnar, where you can hike through vast emerald tea plantations and stay in restored heritage bungalows. A stay at properties like Windermere Estate offers a refined immersion into plantation life, with guided walks through cardamom and spice gardens that overlook the misty ridges of the Western Ghats, including views of Meesapulimala, the second-highest peak in South India. Conclude your journey by drifting through the backwaters of Alleppey on a private, converted rice barge (kettuvallam) to observe village life along the riverbanks.
Nepal, A Himalayan Kingdom
Kathmandu’s monuments contrast with Chitwan’s panoramas; fly for Everest views, explore courtyards, palaces, and lowlands for elephants, with starry nights at Dwarika’s Resort. Delight in spotting tigers and rhinos in Chitwan National Park before finding peace in the Pokhara Valley, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Family adventures blend moderate hikes and jungle activities in 2026.
Secrets of the South
Uncover Southern India’s many faces, from the “Garden City” of Bangalore to spiritual Mysore, where markets are fragrant with sandalwood and silk. Explore the rainforest microclimate of Coorg, staying at the opulent Evolve Back Chikkana Halli Estate, set within a 100-year-old coffee and spice plantation. This journey takes you through impressive architecture and shola forests in search of gentle elephants and spectacular mountain views.
Ladakh High Passes
In Ladakh, a remote high-altitude oasis known as “Little Tibet,” traverse ancient Central Asian caravan routes and cross the Khardung La Pass, one of the world’s highest motorable roads at 18,380 feet (5,602m). Explore the Hunder Sand Dunes on camel-back and stay in the nomadic luxury of TUTC Chamba Camp in Thiksey or Diskit. Visit mountain-cradled gompas and 17th-century palaces, all home to age-old relics and contemplative Buddhist monks.
Bhutan Thunder Dragon
Myths and mystique define Bhutan, a mountainous kingdom where traditions from ancient civilizations remain intact. Hike amidst dramatic landscapes featuring mossy forests, valleys blanketed in wildflowers, and snowy mountaintops that peak above the clouds. Learn about Mahayana Buddhism at the second-oldest monastery in Tawang or at Bhutan’s own intricately carved cliffside fortresses and monasteries.
