India + Sri Lanka Experience

ARRIVE AND MEET THE GROUP We'll pick you up from Delhi airport and take you to our accommodation in the heart of the city. You'll then have plenty of time to chill out and meet everyone in your group.

OLD DELHI AND DELICIOUS FOOD Today, we'll immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of Delhi. As we wander through the streets of Chawri Bazaar with our local guide, we'll see how traditional life remains largely unchanged. We'll also get to taste India's famous cuisine by sampling local delicacies - chaat or lassi anyone? In the afternoon, we'll visit the stunning red-marbled Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, and learn about the significant role religion plays in this country of over a billion people.

JODHPUR AND THE BLUE CITY This morning, we'll leave the bustling streets of Delhi behind and catch a quick flight to Jodhpur, the 700-year-old 'blue city' in the desert. We'll explore the maze of blue architecture??don't worry, our guide will lead the way. As we navigate the medieval streets and lively bazaars, we'll wrap up the day with a local dinner together. Let's find out who can handle the spice!

MEHRANGARH FORT & BISHNOI VILLAGE Towering over the Jodhpur skyline, the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort sits on a rocky hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the city and desert plains below. Today, we'll explore this remarkable site, delving into the area's rich history and enjoying the stunning vistas. In the afternoon, we'll visit the traditional villages of the warm and hospitable Bishnoi people to experience their unique way of life.

OSIAN DESERT CAMP It's time to bid farewell to the urban hustle and bustle as we travel into the heart of the Thar Desert. We'll hop into jeeps for a sunset safari among the rippling sand dunes. As night falls, we'll return to camp to immerse ourselves in authentic Rajasthani warmth and hospitality. Sharing stories over dinner, we'll marvel at the starlit sky and retire to sleep in traditional Swiss tents.

PUSHKAR AND YOGA Next up is Pushkar, renowned as one of India's most sacred cities. Roaming around this city centered around a serene lake, we'll learn why Pushkar holds such significance for Hindu pilgrims, who aim to make at least one pilgrimage here in their lifetime. With vibrant markets and mouthwatering cuisine, Pushkar stands out as a unique gem in Rajasthan. And what better place than the birthplace of yoga to reconnect with your inner yogi? Tonight, we'll unwind with an included yoga session, embracing both physical and mental tranquility.

SUNRISE VIEWPOINT AND JAIPUR This morning, we're up bright and early for a not-so-intense hike to Savitri Temple. Perched on a rocky spot overlooking Pushkar, we're in for a killer sunrise view. After breakfast back at the hotel, it's time to hit the road to Jaipur, aka the 'Pink City'. Get ready for some seriously Instagrammable rose-tinted buildings! Once we're checked in, we'll swing by Hawa Mahal for that obligatory perfectly symmetrical photo op. Then it's off to Jantar Mantar, Jaipur's ancient observatory. It's nearly two centuries old but still houses some incredibly sophisticated instruments.

AMBER FORT & COOKING DEMO Today, we're heading to the enchanting Rajasthani Amber Fort, and to spare our legs, we'll hop on a jeep to reach the hilltop. Behind its weathered walls lies a stunning paradise filled with beautifully adorned chambers and intricate artwork. After soaking in all the beauty, tonight's plan involves a visit to a local family for dinner. But here's the twist - we're getting hands-on in the kitchen! Channeling our inner foodies, we'll whip up some delicious dishes and become culinary wizards in no time.

RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK & FORT Today, let's embrace a bit of adventure! Bid farewell to the chaos of rickshaws and scooters as we switch gears and venture towards the outskirts of one of India's biggest and most famous national parks. Once we're settled into our accom, it's time to kick back and relax. But don't get too comfortable because later, we're channelling our inner Indiana Jones and embarking on a jungle expedition to uncover the mysteries of Ranthambore Fort.

SAFARI Time for some tiger action! We're kicking off bright and early this morning with a sunrise safari, hoping to catch a glimpse of these majestic big cats in their natural habitat. Ranthambore National Park is full of diverse wildlife - from playful monkeys and lurking crocodiles to wild boars, deer, peacocks, and even elusive leopards - ensuring our safari is packed with excitement. After our safari, feel free to explore the local surroundings or simply unwind and recharge by the pool.

DRIVE TO AGRA & BABY TAJ Leaving the jungle behind, we'll make a pit stop at the Abhaneri Stepwell, a fascinating structure constructed over a millennium ago to preserve water and offer relief from the scorching heat. After snapping some photos, we'll hit the road towards enchanting Agra, giving you a taste of what's in store by visiting the exquisite tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah, affectionately known as the Baby Taj. The excitement is building...

SUNRISE AT THE TAJ MAHAL AND RETURN TO DELHI Wake up bright and early to catch the stunning sunrise casting a golden hue over the iconic Taj Mahal. As one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, our local guide will share tales of the Taj's rich history and reveal its hidden secrets, while guiding us to picture-perfect spots. With our minds buzzing and cameras full, we'll return to the hotel for breakfast before embarking on our journey back Delhi. Tonight, let's toast to our unforgettable adventure in India with a feast, some drinks, and perhaps a little Bollywood dancing.

FLY TO SRI LANKA Today, we'll hop on our included flight to the stunning island of Sri Lanka to kick off the second leg of our epic journey!

TUK TUK TOUR Discover the beachside town of Negombo by tuk tuk and visit the local fish markets, before heading to the beautiful town of Sigiriya. The next two nights we will stay in a hotel amidst lush tropical greenery.

SIGIRIYA AND LOCAL VILLAGE An amazing and diverse day starting with experiencing the stunning views of the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress by climbing Pidurangala Rock followed by an authentic local village experience. We'll hop on some local transport and enjoy a cooking demonstration by the local village women and live and eat like the locals!

SPICE GARDEN AND TEMPLE OF THE TOOTH Today we'll head south via a spice garden before arriving in the cultural centre of Sri Lanka – Kandy. We'll visit the amazing Temple of the Tooth, before heading out for dinner and a few drinks.

TEA PICKING & A SCENIC TRAIN RIDE TO ELLA We'll continue south through stunning rolling green tea plantations, stopping to learn how to pick and make tea; Sri Lanka's most famous export. Before boarding the ??world's most scenic train' to the town of Ella. Once we arrive we'll head into town for dinner and a night out!

LITTLE ADAMS PEAK A free morning to relax and explore the beautiful little town of Ella. We'll then hike the stunning Little Adam's Peak and enjoy the spectacular views. After the little hike, feel free to treat yourself to a traditional massage, do some shopping, or just curl up with a book and cuppa.

NINE ARCHES BRIDGE This morning we'll visit the famous Nine Arches Bridge before heading south to the amazing Udawalawe National Park.

SUNRISE SAFARI A truly unforgettable day as we wake for sunrise and travel by jeep into the stunning Udawalawe National Park to spot herds of wild free roaming elephants, crocodiles and amazing bird life. We'll then head to the beachside oasis of Hiriketiya for a chilled afternoon in paradise. Later we'll arrive at our beachfront eco retreat in gorgeous Tallala, where we'll finish the day watching the sunset whilst tucking into a BBQ.

ECO RETREAT The aim of today is to do as little or as much as you want. Take a deep breath and feel the peace and calm wash over you at this beautiful retreat. Participate in the included yoga session, read a book on the loungers by the pool, book an ayuverdic massage, or just snooze under a palm tree whilst soaking in one of the best kept secret beaches of the south.

LEARN TO SURF This morning we'll continue along the coast and stop for a private surf lesson on the super friendly and relaxed Welligama Beach. We'll later check into our beachfront accommodation in Mirissa before visiting Coconut Tree Hill for it's stunning view.

BUDDHIST MONASTERY VISIT Today we'll have a truly special experience! We'll head to a Buddhist Monastery to take part in a cultural exchange with the local monk students who live there and gain a unique insight into Buddhist ways of life. Tonight and in celebration of our last evening together, we'll be treating you to a farewell dinner on the beach.

CHECKOUT AND ONWARD TRAVEL Your epic adventure comes to an end today. Your group leader will help organise your onward travel.