This World Tourism Day, go beyond sightseeing and discover the experiences that make a journey truly memorable. From misty mountain mornings and aromatic coffee plantations to serene backwaters and quiet beaches, India offers countless ways to travel differently. At Sterling Holidays, our Discoveries & Experiences are designed to help you experience destinations through their nature, culture, cuisine and local stories. Here are seven experiences across Sterling’s South and East India destinations that deserve a place on your bucket list.

  1. Wake Up to the Kanchenjunga in Darjeeling

Few travel experiences compare to watching the first light touch the snow-covered peaks of Kanchenjunga. In Darjeeling, the mountains become more than a backdrop—they become part of the journey.

Stay at Sterling Darjeeling, perched at one of the highest points in Darjeeling, and wake up to spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga Range. Located close to Ghoom Monastery and the historic Ghoom railway station, the resort also places you close to the iconic Himalayan Railway. After exploring the hills, savour Himalayan favourites such as momos and thukpa at the resort.

The experience: Mountain views, Himalayan culture, the toy train and local flavours—all in one memorable escape.

  • Cruise Through Kerala’s Backwaters in Alleppey

There is a certain magic to Kerala that can only be experienced from the water. Glide past swaying coconut palms, lush paddy fields, villages and temples as the gentle rhythm of the backwaters slows everything down.

At Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey, the backwaters of Vembanad Lake are practically at your doorstep. Enjoy a houseboat or shikara experience, followed by authentic Kerala flavours at the resort. From traditional cuisine to fresh seafood, the destination allows you to experience Kerala through both its landscapes and its food.

The experience: Let the backwaters set the pace while you discover the quieter side of Kerala.

  • Walk Through the Coffee Plantations of Coorg

Some destinations are best experienced through their aromas. Coorg is one of them.

Take a walk through the region’s coffee plantations and discover the journey of coffee—from bean to cup. Learn about the different varieties, traditional farming practices and the coffee culture that makes Coorg so distinctive.

At Sterling Brookstone Coorg, the experience is complemented by a peaceful stay amidst lush greenery. The resort’s Planter’s Kitchen also brings Kodagu flavours to the table, allowing you to experience the destination through its cuisine.

The experience: Walk through aromatic plantations, learn the story behind your morning coffee and taste Coorg at its most authentic.

  • Rediscover the Hills of Ooty Through Local Experiences

Ooty is more than its cool weather and scenic viewpoints. Look closer and you’ll discover tea estates, Toda culture, colonial history, handmade chocolates and the timeless charm of the Nilgiris.

At Sterling Ooty – Fern Hill, you can experience the destination beyond conventional sightseeing through curated nature and culture trails. Explore the hills, discover local communities, visit tea plantations and experience the iconic toy train. Back at the resort, fresh produce from its organic garden adds another local touch to your stay.

The experience: Slow down, explore the hills and discover the culture and flavours that make the Nilgiris special.

  • Cycle Around Kodaikanal Lake

Sometimes, the best way to explore a destination is to simply slow down.

In Kodaikanal, cycle around the iconic Kodai Lake, breathe in the crisp mountain air and watch the landscape unfold at your own pace. For those looking to explore further, the destination offers nature trails, Pillar Rocks, Mannavanur Lake and the peaceful village of Vattakanal.

Make Sterling Kodai – Lake your base, with its location overlooking Kodai Lake. After a day of exploring, unwind with a lakeside meal or relax at the resort’s spa.

The experience: A bicycle, a mountain breeze and nowhere you urgently need to be.

  • Experience the Wild Side of Anaikatti

For travellers looking to get closer to nature, Anaikatti offers an experience far removed from crowded tourist destinations.

Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Anaikatti is surrounded by forests, streams and wildlife. At Sterling Anaikatti, one of the most distinctive experiences is the night safari, offering an opportunity to experience the forest after sunset. Guests can also explore nature trails, take a river walk or venture towards Siruvani Waterfalls.

The experience: Leave the city behind, follow the sounds of the forest and experience the Western Ghats after dark.

  • Discover the Slower Side of Goa at Varca

Goa doesn’t always have to mean crowded beaches and packed nightlife. Head towards South Goa and discover a quieter, more relaxed side of the destination.

At Sterling Goa Varca, you are close to the beautiful Varca Beach, known for its white sands and relatively relaxed atmosphere. Spend your day by the beach, explore local Goan flavours and return to the resort for a leisurely evening.

The experience is about embracing Goa at a slower pace—where the sound of waves can be more memorable than the sound of a party.

The experience: Trade the rush for sunsets, local flavours, sandy shores and the laid-back rhythm of South Goa.

Travel Differently with Sterling

This World Tourism Day, perhaps the best way to celebrate travel is to travel with a little more curiosity. Taste the local food. Meet the people. Walk through the plantations. Listen to the forest. Watch the sunrise. Take the road less travelled.

Because a destination is not just a place you visit—it is an experience you take back with you.

With Sterling, every holiday can become an opportunity to see India differently, one destination and one unforgettable experience at a time.

This World Tourism Day, travel differently. Discover more with Sterling.