• Travel Features
  • Global Action
  • Take A Trip
  • Travel Guides
    • Podcast
    • Courses
    • Bookshop
  • About
  • Sign Up
Menu

CATALYST PLANET

  • Travel Features
  • Global Action
  • Take A Trip
  • Travel Guides
  • Discover
    • Podcast
    • Courses
    • Bookshop
  • About
  • Sign Up

Experience Life as a Mongolian Nomad

November 24, 2025

Mongolia is known for its beautiful and varied landscapes, nomadic culture, and rich history. On this trip, travelers. From the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar, this trip takes travelers from the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar through the Mongolian plains, from steppes to the Gobi desert by horseback or oxcart to the realm of 21st century nomads. Within Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, nomadic families continue to live in gers, a round, portable dwelling, ride horses and make their own garments. The group will experience these parts of life in the steppes, living with a local host family and get a taste for nomadic life on the Mongolian plains. Travelers will visit a natural history museum to learn about the natural environs, hike through sand dunes, listen to Mongolian throat singing, and visit monastery ruins while immersing themselves in a different way of life.

This is a 14 day trip and costs $2,699. This trip is led by the sustainable travel company G Adventures. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community.

learn more

<< Back to trip search

In Outdoor, Wildlife, Indigenous Peoples Tags Continent: Asia, Focus: Adventure, Country: Mongolia, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Organizer: G Adventures, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: All Travel
Comment

Stilt Fisherman Mirissa Sri Lanka. Courtesy of Follow Alice.

Discover the Hidden Gems of Sri Lanka

September 1, 2025

An immersive journey through Sri Lanka is perfect for travelers who crave a balance of natural beauty, cultural depth, and relaxed adventure. From misty tea plantations to sunlit coasts, ancient temples to wildlife-rich national parks, the land is the place to be for curious explorers who enjoy meaningful travel over fast-paced sightseeing. The island offers incredible diversity in a compact space. In just days, one can hike to sacred mountaintops, wander UNESCO-listed ruins in the Cultural Triangle, and spot elephants or leopards in the wild. The pace of life there is moderate, with opportunities for both light trekking and cultural immersion. Ideal for travelers with a general level of fitness who enjoy soft adventure, scenic train rides, vibrant local cuisine, and time to unwind in stunning natural settings. Along the way, one can visit historic towns like Kandy, meet tea workers in Ella, explore colorful markets, and relax in quiet beach villages along the southern coast—each place offering its own rhythm, hospitality, and charm.

This trip is led by Follow Alice, an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities. This 11-day trip is priced at $1,980 per person and can accommodate anywhere from 4-12 travelers.

learn more

<< Back to trip search

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Sri Lanka, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Adventure

Stupas along the Jomolhari trek. Courtesy of Follow Alice.

Hike the Jomolhari Trail and See the Best of Bhutan

November 26, 2024

Hiking the Jomolhari Trail is more than simply a trek–it’s a transformative journey. It invites hikers with a taste for adventure, an appreciation for culture, and a desire for inner stillness to step into a world where the mountains speak, and every footstep tells a story. This journey involves a high-altitude hike that combines Himalayan grandeur with deep cultural immersion. This 8-day adventure winds through pristine Alpine forests, glacial valleys, and pastures filled with yak, all with the 4.5-mile-high Mount Jomolhari as a constant backdrop. Along the way, visit ancient sites such as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched elegantly on a cliffside, and encounter remote villages where Bhutanese traditions remain beautifully intact. The trek reaches heights of nearly 1,640 feet and subsequently demands good fitness, making it ideal for those with hiking experience, a taste for adventure, and an appreciation for solitude. Bhutan’s unique approach to life, guided by Gross National Happiness (the official government’s way in which the country gauges life satisfaction, measured through virtues such as contentment and well-being), is evident in its untouched landscapes, spiritual depth, and warm-hearted locals. With expert local guides from Follow Alice, the traveler will gain insight into Bhutanese Buddhism, history, and ecology, sure to enrich every step. Limited tourism means fewer crowds and a more genuine connection with the land and people. Whether one is drawn by the serene environment, cultural richness, or the physical challenge, the Jomolhari Trail offers a rare, meaningful experience in one of the world’s most unaltered mountain kingdoms.

This trip is led by Follow Alice is an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities. This 17-day trip is priced at $6,089 per person.

Learn More

<< Back to trip search

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Bhutan, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks, Cost: $2500+, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: All Travel

A snapshot of the Bumdra trek. Courtesy of Follow Alice.

Explore the Best of Bhutan and Trek the Bumdra Trail

November 26, 2024

Discover the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan on a journey where travelers can trek the Bumdra Trail. This immersive trip combines cultural exploration with breathtaking trekking through pristine Himalayan landscapes. Travelers will visit iconic sites such as the majestic Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), perched dramatically on a cliffside and renowned for its spiritual significance and stunning views. The trek along the Bumdra Trail offers an exhilarating adventure, leading the traveler to the Bumdra Monastery, set at an elevation of about 12,467 meters. This serene monastery is a hidden gem, offering panoramic views of the Paro Valley and the snow-capped Himalayas beyond. The trail itself winds through dense forests, alpine meadows, and quaint villages, immersing trekkers in Bhutan’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. This trip is ideal for travelers with a moderate to high fitness level, as the trekking involves steep ascents and altitudes requiring good stamina and acclimatization. The rewarding views and unique cultural encounters make every step worthwhile. Whether the traveler wanders through ancient dzongs, samples local cuisines, or soaks in Bhutan’s peaceful vibe amid breathtaking landscapes, this trip offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and tradition.

This 12-day trip costs $3,890 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.

Learn More

<< Back to trip search

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Bhutan, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: All Travel

Hiker by Gokyo Valley in Nepal. Courtesy of Follow Alice.

Explore Mount Everest’s Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes

August 4, 2024

Combine two of Nepal's most breathtaking routes in one unforgettable trek. This journey leads the traveler not only to Everest Base Camp, the iconic launching point for summit expeditions, but also to the shimmering turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes–sacred glacial lakes nestled in the Himalayas. The traveler will hike through quiet Sherpa villages such as Phortse and Machhermo, pass ancient Buddhist monasteries rich with prayer flags and spinning wheels, and cross the thrilling Cho La Pass, a dynamic glacier-covered saddle at 3.4 miles. Additionally, the trek features two of the best viewpoints in the region: Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, where sunrise paints Everest and its neighboring peaks in unforgettable colors. This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers with good fitness levels who enjoy both physical challenge and cultural discovery. It is ideal for those looking to push their limits while soaking in the peaceful beauty of the Himalayas. The route is less crowded than the standard Everest Base Camp trail, offering a more remote and serene experience. In-country flights, licensed guides, porters, all meals, and accommodations in local tea houses are included.

This trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities. This 17-day trip is priced at $2,590 per person.

Learn more

<< Back to Trip Finder

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Nepal, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: All Travel

Helicopter by Mount Everest Base Camp. Courtesy of Follow Alice.

Escape to Everest Base Camp

August 4, 2024

Take a journey to an awe-inspiring place: Everest Base Camp. This 15-day trekking adventure through the heart of the Himalayas is designed for those with good physical fitness and a sense of adventure. This high-altitude journey winds through Nepal’s Khumbu region, taking you past iconic landmarks such as the Hillary Suspension Bridge, the spiritual Tengboche Monastery, and the bustling Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar. With its prayer flags, yak caravans, and dramatic mountain vistas, each stop offers a rich blend of culture and natural beauty. The highlight is reaching Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters–an unforgettable experience where trekkers stand in the shadows of the world’s highest peak. Along the way, you’ll witness the towering peaks of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse, and enjoy panoramic views from the famed Kala Patthar, one of the best vantage points for Mount Everest itself. Unique cultural touches, such as staying in traditional tea houses and interacting with local Sherpa communities, add depth to this once-in-a-lifetime journey. This trek is best suited for those who can handle long days of hiking (4-8 hours per day), high altitudes, and challenging terrain, but the reward is an epic, soul-stirring adventure that will leave you transformed.

This 12-19 day trip costs $1,790 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.

learn more

<< Back to trip search

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Nepal, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: Wildlife, Focus: All Travel
Hot Ballon at Sunset in India

Jaipur balloon ride. Courtesy of G Adventures.

Experience India

July 28, 2024

India is a country with deep history, a unique religious diversity, world-renowned architecture, and excellent cuisine. This trip permits travelers to experience some of the vast country’s wonders, from the Agra Fort, the historic seat of the Mughal Empire, to the famed Taj Mahal, an old king’s last declaration of love to his wife, to Udaipur, with its palaces dotting the lake. Travelers will get the chance to engage with their own spirituality in Pushkar, the king of the pilgrimage centres, where they will visit the only Hindu temple to the god of creation, Brahma, as well as hike to the Savitri Temple at dawn to watch the sun rise. Get your body moving with a cricket match in Tordi Sāgar or wandering the riverside of Ahmedabad. From a night out in the tropical beach town of Goa to exploring the busy metropolitan Mumbai, travelers will get the chance to see the diversity of this massive country, its history, and the wonders it has created.

This is a 15-day trip and costs $664. This trip is led by the sustainable travel company G Adventures. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and the trip revenue is driven to help the local community.

Learn more

<<< Back to trip search

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: India, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks, Cost: $1 - $500, Focus: All Travel
Island in Thailand in Crystal Water

Go Island Hopping in Thailand

July 27, 2024

Thailand, known for its unrivalled beaches, is home to more than 1,400 islands and boasts a diversity of natural landscapes, from mangrove forests to swampy wetlands adorned with water lilies to beautiful white sand and rocky coastlines. Starting in Bangkok, travelers will witness a range of what Thailand has to offer, from the bustling city to a number of the many islands. The variety of geological formations and coral reefs of Ko Lanta and Ko Ngai set the backdrop for the clear waters and colorful sunsets. The clear water and coral reefs give ample opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. Travelers will also have the chance to explore the nearby jungles and simply relax on the beach. Optional excursions make it possible to visit four spectacular islands over the course of this trip.

This is an eight-day trip and costs $879. This trip is led by the sustainable travel company G Adventures. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community.

Learn more

<< Back to trip search

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Thailand, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: All Travel

Explore the Culture and History of Iraqi Kurdistan

June 20, 2024

This area is known for its rugged mountains, rich cultural heritage, and unique Kurdish identity. The region offers opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, trekking, and exploring ancient archaeological sites.

Read More
Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Iraq, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: Art + Culture, Focus: Adventure

Vang Vieng, Laos. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD.

Journey from Laos to Thailand

June 13, 2024

Travelers will then visit the city of Luang Prabang, where monks walk through the streets every morning! This city is known for its Buddhist temples and travelers will have the chance to explore such monuments and even visit the Royal Ballet Theatre. Travelers will then stop by Chaing Kong on the bank of the Mekong River before crossing into Thailand and arriving in Chiang Mai. Thailand is located just south of Laos and is a historically Buddhist country.

Read More
Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Laos, Country: Thailand, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: All Travel, Cost: $1 - $500
Cambodia Hammocks and Tables on Beach

Temple LeoTamburri. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD

Explore Cambodia’s Ancient Ruins and Beaches

April 9, 2024

Cambodia, with its tropical climate and beautiful beaches, is known for its rich culture and ancient temples. Travelers will begin this trip in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, and enjoy a night out before driving to Siem Reap, Cambodia the next day. Siem Reap has numerous examples of Cambodian tradition as it is home to various temples, including Angkor Wat, a monumental Buddhist temple and the largest religious monument in the world. While in Siem Reap, travelers will also have the opportunity to attend the Phare Circus, a cultural performance with theater, music and dance, and go on a tour of Tonle Sap (Southeast Asia’s largest lake). Travelers will also get to visit Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. The city is known for its historical architecture and cuisine. Travelers will experience the largest city in Cambodia with a street food crawl and will also have the chance to visit the Silver Pagoda, another famous Buddhist temple. One of the last stops in Cambodia allows travelers to enjoy the country’s warm weather with a visit to a private beach in Koh Rong, the biggest island in the Gulf of Thailand. Here, travelers get a break from the hustle and bustle of the cities; with no transportation on the island except for taxi boats, travelers can enjoy Cambodian seafood and Koh Rong’s gorgeous underwater ecosystem. At the last stop in Cambodia, Chambok Village, travelers will get one more glimpse of Cambodian nature by getting to explore the village and seeing its beautiful waterfalls. This trip ends in Ho Chi Minh City—also known as Saigon—in Vietnam, where travelers will depart after enjoying some time in the country’s economic hub.

This is an eight-day G Adventures trip for people ages 18-Thirtysomething. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. This trip is ten days long and costs $522 and includes transportation between locations, accommodations, and some meals.

learn more

<<< Back to Trip Search

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Thailand, Country: Cambodia, Country: Vietnam, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Art + Culture, Focus: Ages 18-35, Cost: $1 - $500
Thailand Koh Samui Building

Koh Samui Beachside Yoga Class. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD.

Discover Thailand’s Village Hill Tribes and Street Food

April 2, 2024

Travelers begin their trip in Bangkok, Thailand’s capital. The city is home to the Grand Palace, famous Buddhist temples, and Khao San Road, a lively street full of international restaurants and music. Travelers will have the chance to partake in various activities such as a Klong Riverboat Tour and a visit to the Royal Barge Museum.

Read More
Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Thailand, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Art + Culture, Cost: $1 - $500

Maldives Cruise. Courtesy of G Adventures, Inc.

Cruise the Maldives in a Traditional Dhoni

February 9, 2024

On this trip, travelers will be met at the airport and driven by a local guide to the airport marina.

Read More
Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Maldives, Focus: Adventure, Focus: All Travel, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks

Baranagar. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD.

Explore Northern India and the Taj Mahal

December 21, 2023

Travelers can arrive in Delhi at any time. Sights include the Karol Bagh market, Old Delhi, the Great Mosque and more. In Raisar, people can go on a short tour of the village. They can see 100-year-old looms, the old water system, rural life, and experience a three-hour camel cart ride.

Read More
Tags Continent: Asia, Country: India, Focus: Adventure, Focus: All Travel, Cost: $1 - $500, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks

Pura Taman Saraswati Temple and lotus ponds. Jorge Franganillo. CC BY 2.0.

Explore the Beaches and Temples of Bali

December 1, 2023

This tour begins in Kuta, known for its long sandy beaches and ideal surfing waves. The group meets and explores this bustling area together before enjoying drinks on the beach. From here, they travel to Kubutambahan and have lunch at the Bali Community Training Lunch Program, which G Adventures supports.

Read More
Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Indonesia, Focus: Adventure, Focus: All Travel, Cost: $1 - $500, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks

Ski Down the Slopes of the Koh e Baba in Afghanistan

September 15, 2023

Travelers on this trip will not only be able to safely travel through Afghanistan, a nation which has been wracked by violent conflict over the last three decades, but also experience the incredible skiing that its mountains have to offer.

Read More
Tags Country: Afghanistan, Focus: Sports, Continent: Asia, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: Adventure, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks
Comment
Women Cooking in Bangkok

Courtesy of G Adventures

Travel From Phnom Penh to Bangkok

September 1, 2023

Having emerged in recent decades as two of the most alluring destinations in Southeast Asia, Cambodia and Thailand now attract travelers who come to enjoy their tropical scenery, electric nightlife, delicious local food and awe-inspiring historical sites. On this trip, travelers will make their way from Phnom Penh to Bangkok over the course of five days, while staying in hostels and partaking in an exciting array of activities. From biking through the Cambodian countryside to visiting the largest religious monument in the world at Angkor Wat to visiting the ancient ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the journey creates ample opportunity to engage with Cambodia’s rich culture. In Thailand, travelers will get the chance to take in Rong Kluea, a bustling trade center between the two countries, as well as the vibrant nightlife of Bangkok.

This is a five-day trip and costs $247. This trip is led by the sustainable travel company G Adventures. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community.  This trip caters to travelers 18 to 30-something with plenty of free time to make new friends and go with the flow.

learn more

<< Back to trip search

Tags Continent: Asia, Country: Thailand, Country: Cambodia, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Art + Culture, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Ages 18-35, Cost: $1 - $500

Fight Poverty in India’s "Pink City"

June 15, 2023

Jaipur, known as the Pink City for its magnificent pink facades, is a bastion of rich cultural history and a vibrant tourism industry, but still suffers from high poverty rates and social inequality. A significant portion of the population lives in slums, families struggling to afford school fees, access healthcare, and face overcrowded housing conditions. Many children under the poverty line or facing social exclusion are neglected and unable to access the essential resources they need to thrive. COVID-19 has disproportionately affected these populations, eliminating job opportunities, hampering access to quality education, and delaying necessary work on vital infrastructure. Volunteers can make a difference in the community by helping to build and renovate these facilities and assisting with education projects like courses, games, arts and crafts, and sports for a range of age groups. Participants will engage with students to help them catch up with peers and provide them with further opportunities to learn and grow. Each traveler will work on a unique project organized by the needs of the moment and the number of volunteers available. The tasks are chosen by the needs of the community. Big group projects involve volunteer working days at a school for 50-100 special needs children affected with mental and physical disabilities such as ADHD, Autism, Muscular Dystrophy, and more.

This trip is 7 days and costs $1,627. Globe Aware is a nonprofit organization that offers international volunteer programs that go beyond tourism. Globe Aware programs promote the immersion of participants in a unique way that also aligns with the United Nations sustainability goals. Volunteers get the chance to experience cultural awareness: acknowledging and celebrating the culture of a community, but not changing it. Participants will also work alongside the host community and help teach and learn skills with the concept of promoting sustainable practices.

In Education, Global Poverty, Volunteering Tags Country: India, Focus: Education, Organizer: Globe Aware, Continent: Asia, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: Community Development, Focus: All Volunteer
Comment

Courtesy of Untamed Borders

Traverse the Pamir Mountains in Tajikistan

December 2, 2022

Travelers will spend 16 days traversing through the heart of the mountain range, staying in the homes of the Pamiri locals, camping near centuries-old caravanserais and exploring the hidden beauty of the Alpine lakes along the way.

Read More
Tags Organizer: Untamed Borders, Country: Tajikistan, Continent: Asia, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: Ages 18-35, Focus: All Travel
Comment

Courtesy of IVHQ

Volunteer in Sustainable Agriculture in Nepal

September 30, 2022

Volunteer travelers will spend up to three weeks assisting a local family with small-scale farming tasks, learning traditional Nepalese farming practices while introducing newer farming techniques and agribusiness principles to boost sustainability and financial security for the family and their broader community.

Read More
Tags Organizer: International Volunteer HQ, Country: Nepal, Continent: Asia, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks, Focus: Agriculture + Farms, Focus: All Volunteer, Cost: $1 - $500
Comment
Older Posts →

Also check out...

Featured
Vietnam’s Floating Markets Are Disappearing
Vietnam’s Floating Markets Are Disappearing
The Supernatural Role of Masks in Nigeria’s Yoruba Tribal Culture
The Supernatural Role of Masks in Nigeria’s Yoruba Tribal Culture
Opening the World to Deaf Travelers with Lily Yu
Opening the World to Deaf Travelers with Lily Yu

Featured trips

Featured
Offer NGO Support While Visiting Quito
Offer NGO Support While Visiting Quito
Experience Life as a Mongolian Nomad
Experience Life as a Mongolian Nomad
Help Grow Organic Costa Rican Coffee
Help Grow Organic Costa Rican Coffee

Sign up for the CATALYST newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter to get the scoop on international travel, global social impact insights, our latest podcast releases, and more from around the world, all delivered right to your inbox!

We respect your privacy.

Thank you!
Newsletter Sign Up | Advertise | Careers + Internships | Privacy Policy | Submissions | Contact Us

Copyright © 2025, MISSION MEDIA LLC. All rights reserved.