Sometimes, only a few days separate the highest mountains in the world from the turquoise bays of Southeast Asia. That’s exactly what my new A to Be Worldtour Vlog 20 is about. This time, I’m taking you on a journey that could hardly be more contrasting: from the peaceful mountain villages of the Indian Himalayas to the most famous islands of Thailand.
Kasol, Manikaran & Tosh – The Peace of the Himalayas
Everything started in northern India — in the small towns of Kasol, Manikaran, and Tosh. Surrounded by massive mountains, dense forests, and the roaring Parvati River, this region almost feels like another world.
Kasol is often referred to as the “Little Israel” of India because travelers from all over the world have been gathering there for many years. Small cafés, a laid-back atmosphere, and spectacular nature make it a perfect base for backpackers and hikers.
Just a few kilometers away lies Manikaran — famous for its hot springs and the well-known Sikh temple. One particularly fascinating fact: the water from the springs is so hot that food is traditionally cooked in it. At the same time, spirituality, nature, and the simple mountain lifestyle all come together here.
Things get even quieter in the small village of Tosh. High up in the mountains, time seems to move more slowly. In the mornings, you look directly at snow-covered peaks, during the day clouds drift through the valleys, and in the evenings everything becomes silent. That sense of peace is exactly what makes the Himalayas so special. No rush. No stress. Just nature, fresh air, and that rare moment when you can completely switch off.
Spontaneously Onward to Thailand
But as so often happens while traveling, things turned out differently than planned.
The original plan wasn’t to return to Thailand again. I had already visited the country several times before. But sometimes the best travel decisions happen spontaneously — especially when entering the country is easy and flexible for many tourists.
So, without much hesitation, I continued from Delhi toward Southeast Asia — leaving behind the cold mountain climate and stepping straight into tropical temperatures, palm trees, and island life.
Koh Phi Phi & Maya Bay – A Scenery Straight Out of a Movie
The next destination was Koh Phi Phi — an island group world-famous for its spectacular beaches. Even the boat ride there feels surreal: steep limestone cliffs rise out of the sea, the water glows turquoise, and hidden coves are scattered between the rocks.
One of the most famous spots, of course, is Maya Bay. Many people know this beach from the movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. And in reality, the bay almost looks unreal: white sand, crystal-clear water, and towering cliffs surrounding the beach.
Especially in the early morning, before too many boats arrive, the place feels magical. You immediately understand why Maya Bay became one of the most famous beaches in the world.
Between Paradise and Mass Tourism
But the vlog doesn’t only show the perfect postcard moments. Places like Koh Phi Phi and Maya Bay also make it obvious how strongly tourism has changed these islands. Thousands of visitors every day, countless boats, and ever-growing hotel developments leave their mark — both on nature and on the atmosphere of the islands.
In the past, Thai authorities even had to temporarily close Maya Bay completely so that nature and the coral reefs could recover. Today, stricter visitor regulations are in place to better protect the bay.
That contrast is exactly what makes the journey so interesting: on one hand, you experience incredible beauty; on the other, you also see the challenges that come with mass tourism. Sometimes only a few meters separate paradise from reality.
Travel Means Change
What ultimately made this trip so special wasn’t only the contrast between the Himalayas and tropical islands. Above all, it was the feeling that travel can never be fully planned.
Sometimes the best moments happen exactly when you spontaneously decide to keep moving. From the peaceful mountain life of India to the lively beaches of Thailand, this vlog shows two completely different worlds — and that’s exactly what makes traveling so fascinating.
You’ll find more impressions, background stories, and personal experiences in the current A to Be Worldtour Vlog 20, as well as soon on my travel blog:
A to Be Worldtour Vlog 20 | Manikaran, Tosh, Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi | dorftv