Phnom Penh demands your attention from the moment you arrive. Vibrant, exciting and utterly unpredictable are just a few words to describe Cambodia’s capital. It’s a city of stark contrasts: slick SUVs share the road with old-world cyclos; visitors can relax in a posh cafe and think they are in Paris, or join the locals at a pop-up stall selling fried noodles.

Nestled in the foothills of the Phu Pasak mountain range of southern Laos, the ancient ruins of Wat Phou, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site, have a special atmosphere to them, inspiring serenity and bliss in those who walk the sacred grounds. In addition to the site’s clear historical appeal, a trip to the ruins is essential for anyone with spiritual inclinations: the calm surroundings, the inherent mysticism and few visitors make it a great place to meditate.

THIS ARTICLE IS AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH AND CHINESE. Perched on the roof of the world is the astounding region of Tibet, one of those lands that most people only dream of visiting. whl.travel has partnered with Tibet Travel Professionals, which has been organising complete Tibet travel packages for foreign visitors since 2005, to ensure a memorable and hassle-free trip to this ancient realm.

THIS ARTICLE IS AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH AND HINDI. India’s ancient and spiritual city of Varanasi, also known as Benares, is located at the heart of the Ganges Valley. Believed to have been founded by the Hindu deity Lord Shiva around 5,000 years ago (making it one of the oldest cities in the world), Varanasi is regarded as holy to Jains and Buddhists, and perhaps the most important pilgrimage site for Hindus, who visit it from all over the world. Now you can book Varanasi hotels and tours through whl.travel.

THIS ARTICLE IS AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH AND NEPALI. At the northeastern edge of the great nation of India is Sikkim, a tiny state draped across a section of the mighty Himalaya. Like the three countries with which it shares borders – Tibet, Bhutan and Nepal – Sikkim is notable for pristine mountain beauty. Its majestic landscapes, peaceful atmosphere and enormous biodiversity also make it one of the most promising destinations in India for anyone in search of the road less travelled.