Where in Asia in September?

Hi all,

I'm considering a destination for a short 7-10 day trip (excluding travel time) at the end of September as I have two weeks leave them (Sep 20 - Oct 2). As this is not a lot of time, it's most practical I visit Asia to minimise my transit time and maximise my holiday. I'm also looking for something not too expensive as I have another much bigger trip in January that is my main focus.

As I live in Australia, Asia is the most practical (just been to NZ recently, so excluding that as an option for now).

Here are my requirements:

- Not Japan, going there in January.

- No where too hot. I already live in a very hot part of Australia. I used to have a lot more heat tolerance, but I'm over it. I'm worried SEA will still be a bit too hot and wet this time of year.

- Had been considering China or Vietnam, but worried Vietnam may still be a bit too hot.

- I am thinking of doing this as my first ever tour. I've always travelled by my own arrangements, but I don't see myself getting sufficient time to plan this trip. If I do a tour, I probably wouldn't do China or Vietnam as I'd much rather do them on my own terms (or Thailand, or Malaysia, or Singapore, or Korea, for that matter. Just too easy to do on my own). I'm really interested in Mongolia, but it doesn't seem like there are any group tours that fit my dates. Uzbekistan is another place of high interest, but also not sure if it's worth it for the time frame and travel time is starting to push it a bit. Considering India or Phillipines, though worried about the weather in the Phillipines.

Any suggestions for destinations welcome.

Likewise, good tour agencies. I'm considering Intrepid or G Adventures, but apprehensive. Don't want a big group. I'm 40, so I don't want to be with only people in their 20s, and likewise don't want to be with only people in their 60s. Happy for a mixed bag of ages though. Bonus points for women only tours.