Houmt-Souk is a tranquil cultural hub, a peaceful meeting point of varying religions and ethnicities. Nowhere is this melange more evident than at the markets, where you could spend hours, even days, poring over locally crafted pottery, jewelry, leather goods, textiles and artwork, as well as a bounty of fruits, vegetables, spices and meats. Don’t miss the beachside fortress, a massive 15th-century structure that’s one of the most important archaeological sites of the region.

Matheran is all about the views. Easily accessible via scenic rail from Mumbai, this refuge in the Sahyadri Hills is blissfully free of motor vehicles and affords nearly three dozen lookouts over the Western Ghats and the region's village-dotted plains. Porcupine Point is anything but prickly—rather, it’s an ideal spot for gorgeous sunsets, especially at the aptly named Panorama Point. Avid hikers hit the densely forested and wildlife-rich route to the ruins of Prabalgad Fort.

Colombo is the gateway to Sri Lanka for most travelers—but don’t be tempted to simply pass through this diverse and interesting city. Take a train ride along the coast to Mount Lavinia, a popular beach, or explore the Talangama Wetland, which several TripAdvisor travelers say is the perfect place to take a break from the bustling streets of the city.