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\u2019s South and East India destinations that deserve a place on your bucket list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\u2014they become part of the journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stay at Sterling Darjeeling<\/strong><\/a>, 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The experience:<\/strong> Mountain views, Himalayan culture, the toy train and local flavours\u2014all in one memorable escape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey<\/a><\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The experience:<\/strong> Let the backwaters set the pace while you discover the quieter side of Kerala.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some destinations are best experienced through their aromas. Coorg is one of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Take a walk through the region\u2019s coffee plantations and discover the journey of coffee\u2014from bean to cup. Learn about the different varieties, traditional farming practices and the coffee culture that makes Coorg so distinctive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Sterling Brookstone Coorg<\/a><\/strong>, the experience is complemented by a peaceful stay amidst lush greenery. The resort\u2019s Planter\u2019s Kitchen also brings Kodagu flavours to the table, allowing you to experience the destination through its cuisine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The experience:<\/strong> Walk through aromatic plantations, learn the story behind your morning coffee and taste Coorg at its most authentic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ooty is more than its cool weather and scenic viewpoints. Look closer and you\u2019ll discover tea estates, Toda culture, colonial history, handmade chocolates and the timeless charm of the Nilgiris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Sterling Ooty \u2013 Fern Hill<\/a><\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The experience:<\/strong> Slow down, explore the hills and discover the culture and flavours that make the Nilgiris special.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sometimes, the best way to explore a destination is to simply slow down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Make Sterling Kodai \u2013 Lake<\/a><\/strong> your base, with its location overlooking Kodai Lake. After a day of exploring, unwind with a lakeside meal or relax at the resort\u2019s spa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The experience:<\/strong> A bicycle, a mountain breeze and nowhere you urgently need to be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For travellers looking to get closer to nature, Anaikatti offers an experience far removed from crowded tourist destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Anaikatti is surrounded by forests, streams and wildlife. At Sterling Anaikatti<\/strong>,<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The experience:<\/strong> Leave the city behind, follow the sounds of the forest and experience the Western Ghats after dark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Goa doesn\u2019t always have to mean crowded beaches and packed nightlife. Head towards South Goa and discover a quieter, more relaxed side of the destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n