Discover India and Sri Lanka with Varanasi

Be met on arrival at Delhi Airport and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to settle in at leisure. Tonight, indulge in a delectable culinary experience at your Welcome Dinner.

Enhance Your Journey - VIP Meet and Greet and Fast-Track Assistance at the Airport Enjoy a hassle-free arrival at Delhi airport with a VIP meet and greet and fast-track assistance through immigration and customs.

This morning, board a flight to Varanasi. Discover one of the city's defining highlights, the Ganges River, an integral pilgrimage site believed to have the power to wash away mortal sins. Renowned for its spiritual significance and long history, Varanasi echoes the essence of centuries past. Settle into your hotel before immersing yourself in your Insider Experience.

Insider Experience - Aarti Prayer Experience an unforgettable Aarti, a prayer ceremony led by gurus at dusk on the banks of the Ganges River, revered for its holy waters. Immerse your senses in the scent of incense, rhythmic drumming and chanting, and watch as a sea of flowers and candles drifts downstream.

Wake early to embark on a sunrise boat trip down the Ganges. Take in the serene spiritual ambience as the sacred river comes to life. Then, set out to explore Varanasi, home to more than a thousand temples and shrines. Wander through the old town with its narrow lanes, bustling markets and vibrant temples. Enter a traditional akhara to witness men practising a traditional form of wrestling known as kushti or pehlwani.

After enjoying time at leisure, journey to the Sarnath. Learn about one of Buddhism's most important sites and see where Lord Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon. Enjoy an Insider Experience as you head back to the hotel.

Insider Experience - Visit a local Weavers Colony Be captivated by skilled handloom weavers as they create exquisite silk Banarasi saris in a local weavers' colony.

Enhance Your Journey - Varanasi Temple Tour Set out on a temple tour of Varanasi, beginning at the iconic Banaras Hindu University and its Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, showcasing rare art and archaeological treasures. Continue to the 18th-century Durga Temple and Tulsi Manas Temple, famed for its marble architecture and verses from the Ramcharitmanas. The tour concludes at the unique Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India.

Enhance Your Journey - Varanasi Local Food Tour Traverse the winding lanes of the city, full of shops and spicy eateries, learning about the significance of gastronomy and the part it plays in Varanasi's religion and culture. This tour guides you through the vibrant markets to locate remarkable eateries.

Enjoy a relaxing morning in Varanasi before your flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival, the remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Delhi at your own pace. Tonight, indulge in a delectable culinary experience at your Welcome Dinner.

This morning, embark on your immersive Insider Experience. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Insider Experience - Delhi Five Senses Tour Delve into Delhi's rich tapestry of cultures and history as you experience the city through all five senses. Admire grand Mughal architecture, wander through ancient lanes and lively markets, and uncover the centuries of influence that have shaped the capital. Learn about the heritage of attar, a fragrant essential oil traditionally distilled from flowers, herbs, or woods. In the vibrant streets of Chandni Chowk, enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride and take in the contrast of Mughal legacy and modern-day hustle. For lunch savour authentic flavours, from aromatic curries to succulent kebabs. Visit a local non for profit organisation, enjoy a moving Gurbani experience at Delhi's largest gurdwara, view the UNESCO site of Humayun's Tomb before driving past New Delhi's iconic landmarks.

After an early breakfast, board the Gatimaan Express to Agra. On arrival, visit Itmad‑ud‑Daulah, the exquisite mausoleum of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal, in whose honour the Taj Mahal was later built. Admire the mausoleum's delicate marble inlay and finely carved surfaces, and discover why it is often regarded as a precursor to the Taj Mahal's architectural brilliance.

After settling into your accommodation, head out for a tour of Agra Fort, situated at the bend of the Yamuna River. Then, catch your first sight of the majestic Taj Mahal. Admire the sunset overlooking one of the Seven Wonders of the World from Mehtab Bagh, a garden situated across the river. Return to the hotel for an evening at your leisure.

This morning, rise early to witness the Taj Mahal at dawn. Admire the pink hues of the sunrise reflected on this UNESCO World Heritage-listed monument. After checking out of the hotel, indulge in an Insider Experience. Savour lunch at a local restaurant before boarding the Vande Bharat Express for your onward journey to Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to the renowned Ranthambore National Park. This evening, check in to your hotel for dinner.

Insider Experience - Visit a local artisan workshop Witness the exquisite art of Pacchikari, Agra's traditional marble‑inlay craft. Using semi‑precious stones such as agate, turquoise, jasper, lapis lazuli, mother‑of‑pearl and malachite, master artisans create intricate designs so finely set that the patterns appear to emerge naturally from the marble itself.

This morning, set out on a jeep safari through Ranthambore National Park for a chance to see regal Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. The park is also home to leopards, hyenas, deer and a rich array of birdlife. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, and perhaps participate in an afternoon game drive, or simply relax at your hotel.

Head to Jaipur, India's remarkable Pink City. The extensive use of pink-plastered stone evokes the charm of a bygone era, where Jaipur's rich history blends seamlessly with its modern culture. Admire the city's impressive forts, lush gardens, and spectacular palaces and temples as you travel by e tuk-tuk through Jaipur's old city, weaving through historic lanes, vibrant markets, and scenes of everyday local life.

Today, travel to Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage - listed palace overlooking Maota Lake. Built in the late 16th century, the fort is a striking blend of Rajput and Mughal design, crafted from red sandstone and marble. Afterwards, visit Panna Meena ka Kund, a 16th-century stepwell just below the fort. Designed as both a water reservoir and a place for community gathering, its symmetrical zigzag staircases form a mesmerising geometric pattern. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure before your Insider Experience this evening.

Insider Experience - Cultural Evening Experience with a Local Family Indulge in an immersive cultural experience in Jaipur as you enjoy an evening in the home of a local family. Take part in a Rajasthani cooking demonstration before savouring a feast of regional flavours. Admire the ancient art of henna and turban tying, engaging in Jaipur's historic traditions. Be mesmerised by the moonlit view of Jaipur as you head back to your hotel.

Enjoy free time this morning in Jaipur, whether you choose to relax or explore the city at your own pace. You may also opt to take part in a hot air balloon ride. This afternoon, depart for Delhi and check in to your hotel before joining your fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner, celebrating the end of a memorable journey.

Enhance Your Journey - Hot Air Balloon Ride Rise early and soar above the skies on a once in a lifetime hot air balloon ride, taking in sweeping views of the city from above.

After breakfast transfer to Delhi Airport for your flight to Sri Lanka. Touch down at Bandaranaike International Airport, located near the charming fishing village of Negombo. A bustling coastal city in Sri Lanka, Negombo charms visitors with its pristine sandy beaches, vibrant fish market and well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture. Be met on arrival and transfer to your accommodation.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast followed by a welcome briefing. Travel to Dambulla for some time at leisure, before visiting the World Heritage-listed Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple. A sacred pilgrimage site for over 2,000 years, the cave monastery is the largest, best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. Explore the sanctuaries of the temple that contain ornate statues and ancient murals depicting the life of Buddha. This evening, savour a taste of Sri Lankan cuisine at an exclusive Welcome Dinner.

Following breakfast, head to the World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa for a tour of its ancient city. Once a prosperous religious centre, it was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in AD 993. Explore the fascinating ruins and discover a world of archaeological treasures. Enjoy an Insider Experience and dine on a traditional farmer's lunch before returning to the hotel. This afternoon, you may wish to embark on an optional activity of your choice.

Insider Experience - Meet a Local Villager and Traditional Priyamali Gedara Lunch Embark on a fascinating cultural experience. Meet a local villager who will demonstrate the process of using traditional ingredients to make energy boosting herbal tonics. After, indulge in a traditional Priyamali Gedara lunch where you will savour a wholesome, authentic Sri Lankan dining experience. Try a variety of flavourful dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients including curries, rice, and chutneys, all served in a warm, welcoming village setting.

Enhance Your Journey - Minneriya National Park Safari Set out on a safari to discover Minneriya National Park, situated in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. Discover the park's breathtaking scenery and spectacular array of wildlife. See the majestic Asian elephants for which the park is famous, as well as a variety of birds, butterflies, reptiles and amphibians. See the Minneriya tank, an impressive man-made water reservoir built by an ancient civilisation.

Enhance Your Journey - Hiriwadunna Village Tour Join a tour of the beautiful rural village of Hiriwadunna. Set out on a tuk tuk ride to Hiriwadunna's pond where you will board a boat to the other side of the village. After a short walk with views of paddy fields and vegetable cultivation, reach the village house where you'll relax with a cup of Sri Lankan tea and traditional sweet treats.

Early this morning, visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site rising 200 metres above the central plains. Built in the fifth century by King Kashyapa, this remarkable geological formation once served as his royal citadel for more than 18 years. You may choose to ascend the rock. As you make your way up, pause to admire the imposing lion paws, the mirror wall, Sigiri graffiti and the beautifully preserved frescoes. At the summit, take in the sweeping views across verdant plains and distant mountains. If you prefer not to climb, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the impressive former royal gardens at the base of the rock. Continue to Kandy and en route, take part in an Insider Experience. The rest of the day is free to explore Kandy at leisure.

Insider Experience - Roti Bread Making experience with local chefs Enjoy a roti‑making experience as local chefs guide you in preparing fresh roti bread, fragrant coconut rice and a selection of freshly cooked Sri Lankan dishes, including fiery curries made with spices grown in the restaurant's garden.

Today, choose to embark on an optional excursion or enjoy time at leisure. Later, head out on an exciting Insider Experience before joining an immersive walking tour of the city of Kandy. Stroll past iconic monuments, a bustling marketplace, and vibrant shops. Tonight, delight in the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Cultural Dance performance. Overlooking tranquil Kandy Lake, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the most significant Buddhist temple in Kandy. It safeguards the sacred tooth of the Lord Buddha. Walk through the immaculate gardens and be awestruck by the intricate designs that adorn the temple's interiors. Afterwards, enjoy a cultural dance performance in Kandy, offering a unique insight to the area's rich cultural heritage.

Insider Experience - Meet With Local Traditional Artists Meet a traditional local artist whose family has preserved Sri Lanka's artistic heritage for generations. Discover the 33 traditional Sri Lankan drums, with a focus on the 10 most widely used today. You'll also learn about the distinctive dance style of Kandy and the intricate jewels that adorn the performers.

Enhance Your Journey - Explore the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, spread over 147 acres in the heart of Kandy. Stroll through the gardens and admire a diverse collection of over 4,000 species of plants including giant bamboo, orchids and exotic trees.

This morning, travel to the lush, green hills of Nuwara Eliya, stopping along the way at one of the many famous tea estates, the first of two Insider Experiences today. Later in the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as 'Little England' because it was a favourite summer retreat for the British civil servants escaping the stifling heat of the coastal lowlands, when Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon during British occupation of Sri Lanka. During the tour of Nuwara Eliya, admire cascading waterfalls, vast tea terraces and vegetable fields, and charming colonial buildings.

Insider Experience - Tea Plantation Visit and Tasting Enjoy a guided walk through the scenic terraced fields, where you'll have the chance to try your hand at tea plucking alongside an experienced local tea plucker. Conclude your visit with a curated tea tasting, featuring a selection of the region's finest Ceylon teas.

Insider Experience - High Tea at The Grand Hotel I ndulge in traditional high tea-style lunch at The Grand Hotel, a timeless property nestled amid lush surrounds. Indulge in culinary delights including fresh sandwiches, artisanal pastries accompanied by freshly brewed, local Ceylon tea.

After breakfast, enjoy the morning at your leisure. Then, indulge in a traditional Sri Lankan curry lunch. Head to Bandarawela Railway Station to embark on an iconic train journey to Demodara. Soak in views of tea-covered highlands from this enchanting railway, a route considered one of the most scenic rail journeys in Sri Lanka. Enjoy stunning panoramas of verdant tea plantations. Arrive in Demodara and transfer to your hotel in Yala. This evening, savour a dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Rise early for a light breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a game drive at Yala National Park. Search for native wildlife including the Sri Lankan leopard, sloth bear and elephant at one of Sri Lanka's oldest and largest national parks. Listen to one of the experienced resort naturalists as they share their knowledge and secrets of tracking animals. Afterwards, return to the hotel to savour a full buffet breakfast, before enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure. Perhaps set out on an additional game drive this afternoon. This evening, indulge in an Insider Experience.

Insider Experience - Sri Lankan Bush Dinner Experience Enjoy a feast of succulent grilled delicacies accompanied by a warm coastal fire on Yala's sandy shores.

Enhance Your Journey - Afternoon Game Drive Set out on an afternoon game drive for another opportunity to absorb the stunning beauty of Yala National Park and enjoy the additional chance to spot wildlife.

This morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, before heading to Udawalawe. Stop at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to learn about the enriching rehabilitation of displaced calfs and discover how these young elephants are nurtured and prepared for reintroduction into the wild. Continue to Galle, witnessing the incredible sight of Koggala fisherman perched on slender poles driven into the shallow seabed. On arrival, check in to your hotel and settle in at leisure before a delightful dinner.

After breakfast, choose from two optional excursions (additional expense). Alternatively, savour some free time this morning to enjoy as you please. Later, visit splendid Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city within the fortress is renowned for its atmospheric cobbled streets and well-preserved colonial architecture. Enjoy a visit to the fascinating Maritime Museum, where centuries of seafaring history come to life, followed by a stop at the iconic Galle Lighthouse. The tour concludes at Galle Cricket Club, where you'll enjoy a sundowner during sunset.

Enhance Your Journey - Una-Eco Tour Embark on a captivating e-bike tour that showcases the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Unawatuna. Start with a visit to a traditional coir factory to see how coir products are made from coconut husks. Afterwards, continue on your e-bike to Yatagala Rajamaha Viharaya, a tranquil Buddhist temple. Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink as you admire the stunning ancient rock carvings. The final stop is at a handloom factory, where you'll witness skilled artisans weaving intricate textiles using traditional techniques past down through generations.

Enhance Your Journey - Cinnamon Experience at Villa Mayurana Visit Villa Mayurana, a beautiful property set among a cinnamon plantation with magnificent views of Lake Koggala and the sea beyond. You'll be welcomed with refreshing cinnamon-infused towel, before embarking on a guided tour of the estate. Learn the time-honoured techniques of cultivating and harvesting cinnamon to create the spice powder and aromatic bark used in cooking.

After breakfast, head to Sri Lanka's capital, Colombo. On arrival, hop on a tuk tuk for an exhilarating sightseeing tour of the city. Highlights of the tour include Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Wolvendaal Church, Old Parliament complex, and the lively Pettah Market area. Return to your hotel, this evening celebrate your unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka with a Farewell Dinner shared with your fellow travellers.

After breakfast, your journey comes to an end with a transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight.

You may choose to extend your stay with a three‑night, all‑inclusive holiday to the Maldives. Please enquire for details.