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Great Asia Getaway

Follow in the Footsteps of Race Across the World Series 5 with Explore

Written by: Laura Dewar - Senior PR & Content Manager at Explore Worldwide
Updated: 6 June 2025


BBC’s Race Across the World is back with Series 5—and it's one of the most epic routes yet. This series sees teams race through Asia from the iconic Great Wall of China to the southern tip of India, Kanyakumari, travelling overland through vast landscapes, buzzing cities, remote mountain regions, and spiritual heartlands.

If you've found yourself dreaming of following in their footsteps (but perhaps a little slower, with fewer (or no) overnight bus journeys and a comfortable bed at the end of each day), Explore has you covered. We’ve put together our favourite trips that cross over with the route of Race Across the World, so you can retrace the contestants' steps—without the stress of navigating border crossings on a shoestring.

Here’s how you can recreate the journey:
 

Start the Adventure in Captivating China

Walk the Great Wall of China

10 days | Moderate walking tour

China is a country of epic diversity and constant surprises, both of which were showcased incredibly by the RATW route this year. Start your journey where the race kicked off—on the mighty Great Wall. Hike along some of the most interesting and picturesque sections of the mighty wall. Starting by the sea at the Dragon’s Head and ending at beautiful Jingshanling.
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China Highlights

10 days | Discovery trip

Or experience Explore China's rich culture and history with a traditional discovery tour that takes in the iconic highlights. Catch the bullet train to Guilin, join a river cruise amongst the stunning karst scenery of Guilin, visit Xian’s Terracotta Army and explore vibrant Beijing.
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High Passes and Himalayan Peaks in Nepal

Discover Nepal

15 days | Discovery tour

Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Chitwan National Park, experiencing everything from Himalayan views to jungle safaris. A perfect two-week snapshot of this vibrant and varied country.
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Walking the Annapurna Foothills

14 days | Moderate walking tour

For adventurers inspired by the show’s more rugged sections, this trip incorporates trekking, village visits, and wildlife. Ideal for those wanting to stretch their legs in the Annapurna without committing to a full-on mountain expedition.
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Northern India: Spiritual Journeys and a Feast for the Senses

Spiritual India – Foothills of the Himalaya

13 days | Discovery tour

From Haridwar to Rishikesh and Shimla to Amritsar, explore the quieter, more reflective side of northern India as well as those incredible rolling landscapes we enjoyed in episode 5 of the show. Great for travellers drawn to the spiritual and scenic destinations along of the route.
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Upgraded - Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan

14 days | Upgraded Discovery tour

Travel in style through the royal state of Rajasthan. Stay in heritage properties and explore regal cities like the blue city of Jodhpur and the lake city, Udaipur.
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India’s Golden Triangle

9 days | Discovery tour

Short on time? See the highlights—Delhi, Agra and Jaipur—on this popular route that captures the essence of North India.
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Delicious Cuisine and Tranquil Backwaters: South India

Highlights of Southern India

15 days | Discovery tour

From tea plantations to colonial towns and tranquil backwaters, this journey through Kerala and Tamil Nadu mirrors the series finale’s lush southern scenes.
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Upgraded - South India: Kerala to Goa

14 days | Upgraded Discovery tour

Add a little beach time and relaxed coastal charm with this route that wraps up in laid-back Goa—enjoyed by the contestants as they neared the end of their epic Asian adventure. Unlike our favourite touring duos, though, you’ll end your days in comfort on this Upgraded tour, staying in a hand-picked selection of premium hotels and lodges.
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Ready to Race (or Ramble) Across Asia?

If Race Across the World lit a spark in you, now’s the perfect time to turn that wanderlust into reality. With Explore’s small group tours, expert local leaders, and immersive itineraries, you can cover the same ground—but with even more insight (and fewer border mishaps).
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