Malaysia to Nepal overland adventure

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

For over 60 years, we have championed the joy of overland travel —offering journeys that connect people and places while keeping carbon emissions low. On The Mekong to the Majestic Himalaya, we are proud to continue this legacy through thoughtful travel design that prioritises trains, shared transport, and sustainable local partnerships.

More than 85% of this 28-day journey is completed by shared local transport, including regional and sleeper trains, riverboats, and small local vehicles. This reduces emissions dramatically compared with air travel, while allowing our travellers to experience Asia as the locals do — through its landscapes, rhythms, and daily life.

By travelling overland rather than flying between destinations, guests make one of the most effective carbon-saving choices possible. We also encourage travellers to fly less and stay longer, reducing the overall number of long-haul flights by combining multiple destinations into one immersive journey.
Throughout the trip, vegetarian meal options are available daily, with many meals made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Group market visits before train journeys provide the opportunity to support local farmers, taste regional produce, and reduce imported food miles.

Before departure, we share guidance on how to reduce personal travel emissions, from choosing lower-emission flights to travelling with reusable bottles and eco-friendly essentials.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

We believe travel can be a force for environmental good. Across the Mekong to the Majestic Himalaya route, we work closely with partners who actively reduce their ecological footprint while protecting the biodiversity of their regions.

Several stays include access to protected parks and conservation areas in northern Thailand and Nepal — where entrance fees directly fund habitat preservation and local wildlife protection.

Travellers receive guidance on responsible environmental behaviour, from avoiding single-use plastics to respecting wildlife and natural habitats. Through the use of local guides and regional experts, guests gain deeper insight into the ecosystems of the Mekong and the Himalayas — promoting awareness and appreciation that lasts long after the journey ends.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

For over 60 years, we have been deeply rooted in the communities that make our journeys possible. On The Mekong to the Majestic Himalaya, nearly all accommodation is locally owned and operated, ensuring income remains in the region.

Dining experiences focus on family-run restaurants using seasonal, regional ingredients, reducing imported food and supporting small-scale agriculture. Travellers connect with communities through artisan workshops, cultural performances, village visits, and home-hosted meals, all of which contribute directly to the local economy.

Our reliance on local train networks and public transport also sustains employment for railway staff, onboard vendors, and small businesses near stations — ensuring that every journey taken supports local livelihoods.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

Our journeys are built around the expertise of local people. All guides, drivers, and staff on this itinerary are residents of the countries and often the regions we travel through, ensuring that local knowledge and perspective shape every experience.

We are proud that many of those employed through our partners are women, working in guiding, hospitality, and logistics — helping to promote equality and empower communities. We require all partners to pay fair wages that meet or exceed national standards and maintain ethical working conditions.

Our journeys are inclusive, welcoming travellers from all backgrounds. By prioritising equality, respect, and collaboration, we continue to build a tourism network that reflects the diversity and richness of the world we explore.