Premium India and Sri Lanka - 19 Days

Itinerary

• Day 1: Delhi Arrival Day

  Namaste! Welcome to India! When you arrive at Delhi Airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, you can explore this exciting capital city at your own pace. Filled with historical landmarks, museums, galleries and endless bazaars, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. After your meeting, head out for dinner at one of Delhi’s oldest restaurants. Having opened its doors more than 80 years ago, the iconic restaurant is credited with introducing India to ice cream and fine dining.

  Accommodation: The Park Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Dinner

• Day 2: Delhi

  To get your bearings of Old Delhi, start today with a leader-led tour of the most ancient part of the city. Your leader will help you navigate the metro system so you can then explore the impressive Mughal architecture on foot. It’s not Delhi without a traffic jam, so hop aboard a traditional rickshaw and weave your way around the streets surrounding the Chandi Chowk marketplace. Stop by India’s oldest and largest mosque, the Jama Masjid, before heading into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara to observe the capital’s spiritual side. You have a free evening ahead to relax and recharge. Tap into your leader’s local expertise for food and activity recommendations that match your mood.

  Accommodation: The Park Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast

• Day 3: Jaipur

  Journey to Jaipur – the capital of Rajasthan. When you arrive, you’ll head to your Feature Stay at the Hotel Narain Niwas Palace. This heritage hotel, managed by the same family since its opening in 1928, has the charm of a traditional family home with regal touches at every turn – think chandeliers, stained-glass windows and peacocks roaming the grounds. Later, join your leader on a walking tour in one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in India as you stop by bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles, folk art and the local specialty of semi-precious stones. End the evening with a home-cooked dinner in the home of a local family and make the most of your time with your hosts, learning about their way of life.

  Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Dinner

• Day 4: Jaipur

  After breakfast, take a guided tour of the iconic Amber Fort, learning stories of a fallen empire as you explore ornate rooms, murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Head to the City Palace in the heart of the Pink City – constructed by Jaipur’s founder in a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. This afternoon is free to spend as you wish. Maybe visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory – one of the world’s most accurate pre-modern observatories – or float over the city in a hot air balloon. This evening, join your group for a Premium Experience at Kishore Niwas – a sixth-generation haveli with deep ties to Jaipur’s royal past. Your hosts will share personal stories and family traditions as you sip heritage liqueurs on the rooftop while the city glows below. After, you’ll probably want to sample some Rajasthani street food, like pyaaz kachori (a crispy pastry filled with spiced onion).

  Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast

• Day 5: Agra

  Today, you’ll head to Agra. After a scenic drive, settle into your new hotel before visiting India’s most iconic landmark – the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A tribute to his belated wife, Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this famous monument in 1632 to house her remains. Your local guide will tell you its history as you stroll the grounds at sunset. For dinner tonight, your leader can recommend a great local spot to try the best curries.

  Accommodation: Grand Mercure or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast

• Day 6: Lucknow

  This morning, you’ll visit Agra Fort – the seat of the Mughal Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The present structure was built by Akbar as the first buildings on the eastern banks of Yamuna River. After, you’ll head off to Lucknow – the capital of India’s largest region, Uttar Pradesh. When you arrive, your leader will guide the group on an afternoon walk to help you get your bearings. This evening, head out for dinner at a restaurant that supports and empowers acid attack survivors. These courageous women, once too scared to leave their homes due to the physical and emotional scars of their attacks, have found refuge and a source of income through their work at the cafe.

  Accommodation: Centrum Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Dinner

• Day 7: Lucknow

  Seize the day with a morning tour of Lucknow, where your leader will show you some of the city’s best spots. This might include a stop at the intricate Bara Imambara – a hall built in 1784 for Shia Muslims. Its labyrinthine layout of narrow passages and staircases is best navigated with the help of a knowledgeable local. If you were impressed by Lucknow’s cuisine last night, you’ll be delighted with this afternoon’s cooking class. Discover the culinary secrets of Lucknowites, gaining skills that you can hopefully put to good use at home!

  Accommodation: Centrum Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Dinner

• Day 8: Varanasi

  Wake up early today for a unique slice of Indian life aboard an air-conditioned train. With more than 21 million people travelling by train across India each day, the rail network is one of the busiest in the world, so you can expect a lively and bustling atmosphere. Although you will have your breakfast packed with you, don’t miss out on an opportunity to interact with the local vendors who board the train at various stops to sell snacks and Indian Chai tea. The ride to Varanasi offers a unique glimpse of the countryside from the comfort of your seat. When you’ve checked into your hotel, join the group for a walking tour of the city widely known as India’s spiritual capital. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise on the Ganges. You’ll be joined by local musicians on board, who will play as you watch the flower and candle ceremony – an experience that will surely stay with you long after your time in India is over.

  Accommodation: Madin Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast

• Day 9: Varanasi

  Early risers, this one’s for you – embark on a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where your leader will explain the significance of India’s most sacred river while gliding past the many ghats and temples on its banks. After, hop into an e-rickshaw, saying ‘Namaste’ to your female driver from Holy City Rickshaws, and weave through the bustling streets of Banaras. Stop at iconic eateries and street food stalls to try chaat, crispy samosas, golden jalebis, refreshing lassi and sweet, aromatic chai served in earthen cups – you’ll quickly understand why Banaras is known as the ‘city of breakfasts’. This afternoon, visit Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations and where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon on the path to enlightenment. The site features several stupas and museums to explore. 

  Accommodation: Madin Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast

• Day 10: Delhi

  It’s the penultimate day today and time to return to Delhi. When you land, the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. There are plenty of sites you may have missed the first time around, like Humayun’s Tomb – a garden tomb dating back to 1570 – or Qutb Minar, the highest tower in India. Your leader can help you book any activities you wish to do before your final group dinner. You’ll head to a beautiful haveli dating back to 1887. Tuck into a feast of Mughlai cuisine, street food dishes and kebabs in a historical setting – the perfect finale to your Indian adventure.

  Accommodation: The Park Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Dinner

• Day 11: Colombo

  This morning, you’ll take an unescorted flight to the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo to begin the second half of your trip. When you arrive, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening, you'll have a second welcome meeting to meet your new local leader and group members. If you arrive early, maybe relax on the beach or take a walk and explore this vibrant city. Later, get to know your new group over a round of complimentary cocktails and a welcome dinner of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.

  Accommodation: Jetwing 7 Hotel or Similar or similarMeals: Dinner

• Day 12: Dambulla

  Travel inland today towards Dambulla. On the way, stop at the Ridi Vihara shrine – a Buddhist cave temple dating back to the second century BC. It is said that there were almost 500 monks living in these hillside caves at its peak. Learn about ancient traditions and craft techniques, such as palm-leaf writing and wood and stone carving, and explore the caves filled with Buddha statues and floral offerings. You’ll also visit the Zero Plastic Impact Centre, an Intrepid Foundation partner supporting almost 100 local artisans producing plastic-alternative products like reusable wooden basket bags and clay water bottles. Share lunch at a local restaurant before travelling to Dambulla – your home for the next three nights. When you’re settled into your hotel, the rest of the afternoon is free.

  Accommodation: Amaya Lake or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Day 13: Dambulla

  Early this morning, before the heat is too intense, head to Sigiriya (Lion Rock). One of Sri Lanka’s premier sights, this dramatic rocky outcrop rising from the surrounding plains is topped by a ruined palace. As you climb, your leader will share stories of the ancient civilisation that once lived here – it’s a steep hike but the far-reaching views from the top are worth it. Return to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast and a relaxing morning. After lunch at a local house, make your way to the village of Muriya Kadawala, where you’ll learn about traditional Sri Lankan pottery techniques and try your hand at the craft yourself. You’ll also sample a local herbal drink accompanied by a piece of halapa (a sweet treat wrapped in kenda leaves). This afternoon is free for you to rest and recharge.

  Accommodation: Amaya Lake or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Day 14: Dambulla

  After breakfast, make your way to Polonnaruwa. Hop on a bicycle to discover well-preserved temples, tombs and stupas in the ancient Quadrangle complex – it’s not hard to imagine what this place looked like in all its former glory. Visit the remains of a seven-story royal palace, the rock temple of Gal Vihara and the statue of 12th-century king Parakrama I. For lunch, you’ll visit a local grandmother’s house, who will show you how to make dhal curry and pol sambol from scratch – you’ll even shred coconut yourself using a traditional scraper tool! This afternoon, head to Minneriya National Park to see Sri Lankan elephants in the wild. You’re likely to spot plenty of these gentle giants around the watering hole, plus macaques, spot-billed pelicans and more.

  Accommodation: Amaya Lake or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Day 15: Kandy

  Today, you’ll travel to Kandy. Along the way, stop by the city of Matale where you’ll visit a local spice garden and learn about the spices that have played an important role in Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. In Kandy, take a guided tour of the city, stopping to admire the Buddhist Sri Dalada Maligawa, otherwise known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (the important shrine houses a relic of Buddha’s tooth, taken from his funeral pyre). Despite being Sri Lanka’s second largest city, Kandy is remarkably laid back. Spend your free evening searching for a taste bud–tingling curry, wandering around the glittering lake or enjoying an optional cultural dance performance.

  Accommodation: Golden Crown Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast

• Day 16: Kandy

  After a leisurely morning, drive to Ambagasthenna village, where hotel and tea plantation owner Mr Thilina will guide you around his neighbourhood. For lunch, feast on a delicious home-cooked meal made by Mr Thilina’s mother. You’ll visit the tea plantation, learn about the cultivation process and try a cup or two served the Sri Lankan way. He’ll share inside knowledge about local crops, sustainable farming and ancient landscaping traditions. After a culture-packed day, there’s only one way to end it – by cracking open a beer and watching the sunset from one of the best viewpoints in Sri Lanka.

  Accommodation: Golden Crown Hotel or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Day 17: Nuwara Eliya

  Depart Kandy and board a morning train bound for Nuwara Eliya. Nestled deep in tea plantation country, Nuwara Eliya sits at an elevation of 1800 m, giving it some of the coolest temperatures in Sri Lanka. When you arrive, take an orientation walk of Nuwara Eliya, wandering the peaceful shores of Gregory Lake. Check into the Grand Hotel – a gorgeous National Heritage Property and your Feature Stay for the night. Your rooms feature classic decor and modern amenities, but the hotel’s real charm is its sustainable approach – the owners have eliminated single-use plastic and are striving for a zero-waste future. Enjoy a high tea featuring pots of Ceylon black, green or spiced tea, plus finger sandwiches and sweet treats when you arrive.

  Accommodation: Grand Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast

• Day 18: Colombo

  Say goodbye to the green hills of Nuwara Eliya and make the journey to Sri Lanka’s coastal capital, Colombo. On the way, visit a tea factory and plantations near the town of Labukelle and stop for lunch at a local restaurant. After arriving in Colombo, take an orientation walk with your leader, who’ll show you Sri Lanka’s old parliament building, the National Museum and the best spots for fairtrade souvenir shopping. Tonight, share a final farewell dinner with your group at a modern restaurant focused on creating dishes that celebrate Sri Lankan spices, such as peanut-crusted tuna with gotu-kola (pennywort) sambol and fragrant vegetable curry.

  Accommodation: Jetwing Colombo Seven or similar or similarMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Day 19: Colombo

  Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to extend your stay in Colombo, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

  Meals: Breakfast