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Wonders of Southern India & Sri Lanka

 
You are viewing the 2028 itinerary. Select your departure year
20272028
Duration
16 days
From per person
£3,799
Tour code
SLJ28
Mobility Rating 3
View Dates & Pricing
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Enjoy a unique combination of deep historic routes and divergent cultures on this immersive discovery of southern India and Sri Lanka. Savour the scents of Kerala's spice fields, stand in awe of Madurai's temples and fly to Sri Lanka for a discovery of tea plantations, temples and tropical beaches

Uncover southern India and Sri Lanka on this cultural journey through two fascinating countries.

Discover the history of Kochi before savouring the aromas of Thekkady's spice fields. Experience a tour of the historic Lockhart tea estate and witness the closing ceremony at the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple.

Crossing to Sri Lanka, unwind on the tropical coast of Negombo and seek elephants in the wildlife reserves of Habarana. Pluck tea leaves at the Giragama estate, travel the atmospheric route of the tea train, explore the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Lion Rock fortress and view a Buddhist relic in Kandy. on a tour blending opportunities for relaxation with immersive experiences.

Unforgettable Experiences

Riding the tea train through misty Sri Lankan mountains
Riding the tea train through misty Sri Lankan mountains
On a scenic three-hour journey, soak up views of lush tea plantations, dramatic waterfalls and cloud-shrouded hills, while travelling on the charming tea train to Nanu Oya.
Exploring historic tea estates in Munnar and Kandy
Exploring historic tea estates in Munnar and Kandy
Tea has played a significant role in the history of both regions, which we uncover on visits to the scenic Lockhart and Girigama estates, featuring tastings and opportunities to pluck the leaves.
Witnessing the Meenakshi Amman temple closing ceremony
Witnessing the Meenakshi Amman temple closing ceremony
Amid the sounds and sights of a rhythmic procession hosted in Madurai’s iconic temple, enjoy a spiritual procession in which a gold idol of Lord Shiva is carried to Goddess Meenakshi's bedroom chamber.
Viewing Asian elephants in the wild
Viewing Asian elephants in the wild
In one of the world’s best areas to see elephants, head out in Jeeps into the surroundings of Habarana’s wildlife reserves to seek these majestic mammals in their natural habitat.
Watching a Kathakali performance in Kochi
Watching a Kathakali performance in Kochi
Savour a cultural evening with dinner accompanied by a tradition dance performance. This classical Keralan artform combines elaborate costumes with traditional music, providing a colourful insight into the region.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1Overnight flight to Kochi in Kerala 

An exploration of two fascinating countries lies ahead as your holiday begins at London Heathrow today. Meeting the Tour Manager and fellow travellers, we board an overnight flight to Kochi, ready to start this exploration of southern India and Sri Lanka.   

Kerala and Tamil Nadu occupy a large section of southern India as it tapers to a point between the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Blending ornate Hindu temples, enthralling monuments, tropical beaches, exciting cities and graceful tea plantations, these states showcase the variety of life in India. Across the water in Sri Lanka, ancient landmarks, culture-rich cities and tropical beaches await.

DAY2Arrival on India’s Malabar Coast

Landing in southern India this morning, we are transferred to our hotel in Kochi, Kerala. An important city on the historic spice route, modern Kochi sits across numerous islands dissected by picturesque waterways parallel to the Malabar Coast.

Our five-star hotel nestles beside Vembanad Lake with great views of these tranquil backwaters. In these picture-perfect Keralan surroundings, we gather to enjoy our first dinner together.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY3Guided tour of Kochi, ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ 

Formerly called Cochin, this destination has a long and varied history that is uncovered on a guided sightseeing tour.

We begin at Fort Kochi, learning about the colonial influence of this historic coastal district. Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama landed on the Malabar Coast in 1498, and built the first European fort in India. Within its vast confines is also the subcontinent's oldest European church, St Francis'. Built in 1503, this was the original burial site of Vasco da Gama. Our tour also takes in the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, Hill Palace - the former residence of the Cochin Maharaja - and Dhobi Khana public laundry. Finally, we visit Paradesi Synagogue - the oldest active synagogue in India - viewing fascinating treasures, including historic Torah scrolls decorated in gold and silver, as well as a rug gifted by Ethiopian emperor Haile Selassie

We return to the hotel with time to unwind before dinner and a Kathakali dance performance. This classical Keralan artform combines elaborate costumes with traditional music, providing a colourful insight into the region's distinctive culture.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY4By rail and coach to the spice village of Thekkady

A short rail journey in AC Chair Class takes us through the Keralan countryside to Kottayam. From here, we travel inland by coach to Thekkady, climbing into the Ghat Mountains. For an authentic taste of rural southern Kerala, look out for roadside stalls selling bananas, mangoes, jackfruit and papayas. Reaching the route's summit, the views reveal a deep green landscape that matches the Indian flag.   

Stopping for lunch in a traditional Keralan bungalow, we also explore the rubber plantations and watch as a guide shows us how to tap rubber. On the approach to Thekkady, we can begin to understand why this town is so famous. Miles of spice plantations adorn the hills and valleys, rich with green cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, ginger and turmeric.  

Our unique accommodation is a recreation of a traditional tribal village that blends with the incredible scenery. A coach transfer takes us back to our hotel in time for dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5Lake Periyar cruise & spice plantation visit

Enjoying breakfast in our beautiful surroundings, we then embark on a boat trip on Periyar Lake. Located in a large wildlife sanctuary, the lake was created by a dam, submerging a forest. As we explore the environment's diverse flora, including tree stumps that jut out above the water, look out for wildlife including elephants, bison, sambar deer and, if we're lucky, tigers. 

Next, we visit a spice plantation for an aroma-filled walking tour, led by an expert guide who helps us uncover the secrets of southern India's flavourful spices. An area that has grown and exported some of the world's most popular spices for centuries, the air is punctuated with fragrant swirls of garlic, vanilla, cloves and nutmeg as we learn how each spice is cultivated.

Our journey continues later as we travel by coach to Munnar, stopping enroute for lunch at a local restaurant. Renowned for its carpet-like tea plantations, Munnar was a popular summer resort during British rule. There's time to visit the market before we check in to our five-star hotel, set amid the misty mountains.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6Lockhart Tea Trail by Jeep

As an important centre for tea-growing, the area surrounding Munnar produces tea for many popular brands. Heading out in Jeeps, we explore one of the most prestigious plantations, Lockhart. Producing about 20,000 tons per year, the estate covers about 1,500 acres of lush green slopes.

On the Lockhart Tea Trail tour, we soak up sweeping views of the countryside, visit the wooden factory and learn about the various stages of tea processing. After witnessing the plucking of leaves and final packaging, there's also a tasting as we are shown how to differentiate the distinct flavours and qualities of varieties of tea. Later, we discover the important work carried out by the Shristi charitable trust, which aims to improve life for disabled people from the tea-planting families of Munnar.

The afternoon and early evening is free to explore Munnar or savour the enchanting views from our hotel, before we gather for dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY7To Madurai for the Meenakshi Temple closing ceremony

Departing Munnar, we descend the Ghat Mountains by coach, crossing into Tamil Nadu. Our destination today is Madurai - one of the oldest cities in India and the capital of the influential Pandya dynasty until the 14th century.    

Our hotel is a venerable former country club and a stunning example of the tropical modernism style of architecture. Resembling an Indian version of an English bungalow with attached pavilions, the focus is on blending comfort and nature. We enjoy dinner in these stunning surroundings after checking in for two nights.

This evening, we head out in motorised rickshaws to witness the closing ceremony at the astonishing Meenakshi Amman Temple. Covered in bright carvings of Hindu gods, this remarkable Dravidian-style temple is dedicated to the wife of Shiva, the goddess Meenakshi, and has long been a pilgrimage site. The Palliyarai Pooja night ceremony features a rhythmic and vibrant procession where a gold idol of Lord Shiva is carried to Goddess Meenakshi's bedroom chamber.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY8The temples and palaces of Madurai

With last night's memorable experience still in our minds, we delve further into Madurai's history and striking landmarks.

Our sightseeing begins at the Thirumalai Nayak Palace. With colonnaded courtyards and a mix of regional architecture, this 17th-century complex formed the seat of the Madurai Nayak dynasty that ruled most of modern-day Tamil Nadu and, later, parts of Sri Lanka. We also visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, where we can see relics relating to the life of the 'Father of the Nation'. Returning to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, we view this breathtaking building in daylight. Inside, we find the magnificent Thousand Pillar Hall and its 985 ornately carved columns, as well as the sacred Golden Lotus Pond. However, it is the stunning gateway towers, or gopuram, that catch the eye. These 14 towers dominate Madurai's skyline with their colourful carvings and pyramidal shape. 

After stopping at a flower market, we return to our hotel, where the rest of the day is at leisure. Unwind, take a dip in a pool or set out on independent explorations. Whatever you do, we reunite later for dinner together.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY9Flight to our Sri Lankan beach hotel

After breakfast at our Madurai hotel, we transfer to the airport for a short flight to Colombo.

Arriving in the Sri Lankan capital, we then head to the coastal town of Negombo and check in to our hotel in the afternoon. Located on a long stretch of golden sand, this four-star hotel is perfectly placed for a relaxing day, lounging under palms beside the Indian Ocean. Keep an eye out for dolphins leaping in the distance.

This evening, we gather to enjoy our first dinner together in Sri Lanka.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY10Elephants of Habarana’s national parks

Leaving Negombo after breakfast, we begin our journey into the lush jungle of Sri Lanka.

Our destination is the heart of the Cultural Triangle, Habarana. This afternoon's excursion focuses on the area's iconic wildlife, especially elephants. With three huge reserves around Habarana, this is one of the best places in the world to spot Asian elephants. Hopping into Jeeps, we head out into one of these reserves, with expert local guides showing us the best places to view elephants. It's also possible to see other mammals such as sambar deer, langurs, macaques and, if we're very lucky, an elusive leopard.

There's time before dinner to enjoy the verdant grounds of our hotel, set beside a tranquil lake.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY11Sigiriya’s ancient Lion Rock Fortress

After breakfast at our hotel, we set out to view one of Sri Lanka's most spectacular sights - the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya fortress.

Rising 600 feet from the jungle, this dramatic granite rock was transformed into a royal citadel by King Kashyapa I in the 5th-century and looms high out of the jungle. The stairway through the rock displays ancient paintings and originally led to an entrance through the mouth of a crouched lion carved out of rock. Today, only the impressive paws remain. If you would like to experience this, there's the option to climb the stairs and admire the views of the surrounding jungle and distant hills - or you can explore the royal palace and gardens at ground level.

Later, we drive to nearby Hiriwadunna, where we enjoy a walk through this traditional Sri Lankan village. At the end of the tour, you will be provided by an authentic home-cooked meal, before returning to our scenic hotel in Habarana.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY12The sacred cave temples of Dambulla

Setting out on a coach journey to Kandy after breakfast, we stop at the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temples. Guarded by a towering golden Buddha, this site is home to cave temples concealed by an overhanging rock.

Inhabited by forest monks since the 3rd-century BC, the caves are believed to have provided sanctuary for ancient King Valagamba during a time of exile. Inside, we admire more than 150 Buddha statues and murals depicting the various stages of his life, along with statues of Hindu deities. Continuing to Kandy, we stop enroute to enjoy lunch independently.

On arrival, we check in to our hotel before uncovering Sri Lanka's spiritual capital on a guided walking tour. After visiting the city's market square where local vendors sell a range of tropical fruits, spices and authentic crafts, we arrive at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This two-storey golden-roofed shrine is said to hold one of Buddha's actual teeth, which is laid on a golden lotus flower, encased in a jewelled casket and sat on a throne. Returning to our hotel later, we enjoy dinner together.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY13Udawatta Kele & Sri Lankan tea-plucking experience

With its location in the heart of Sri Lanka's verdant interior, Kandy has immediate connection to nature. Above the royal palace is the sprawling Udawatta Kele forest reserve, a sprawling 257 acres of lianas, shrubs and trees. On a guided walk, we explore this beautiful jungle environment, keeping our eyes and ears peeled for parakeets, macaques and muntjacs.

Later this morning, we are transferred to Giragama Tea Plantation, where the centuries-old traditions of Ceylon tea are still alive and well. Having produced premium teas for generations, the estate supplies many global brands and now operates as a working plantation and a living museum. As well as learning about the history of tea in Sri Lanka, we can also try our hand at plucking the camellia sinensis leaves straight from the bush.

Back at our hotel, there's a free afternoon before dinner. You can choose to unwind or explore independently, perhaps hopping aboard a tuk tuk and further uncovering the charms of Kandy.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY14The charming ‘tea train’ to Nanu Oya

A holiday highlight awaits today as we are transferred to Peradeniya railway station for a journey on the delightful 'tea train'.

This scenic route is famed for its picturesque scenery as we climb into the central highlands, navigating mountainous slopes, bridges and tunnels. Enroute, we can relax and soak up the views of lush forests, vast tea plantations and cascading waterfalls that unfold outside our windows. The views make this trip popular with visitors, but it also provides a glimpse into daily life in rural Sri Lanka on a service that is a lifeline for locals.

Arriving in Nanu Oya, we are transferred to our hotel near Nuwara Eliya. With its temperate climate, manicured green spaces and colonial architecture, it's easy to understand how this town became known as 'Little England'. Our five-star hotel is surrounded by verdant forests and after checking in, dinner is served in the restaurant.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY15Dinner with a view in Colombo’s Lotus Tower

Our final day in Sri Lanka starts with breakfast ahead of today's coach journey to Colombo, closing the circle of our explorations of this history and nature-rich island.

From the misty, tea-covered mountains of the interior to the bustling streets of the capital, our route unveils the varied landscapes of the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean'. On arrival, we check in to our central hotel before embarking on a guided tour of Colombo's main sights, including Independence Square, which was built to commemorate the end of British rule in 1948

This evening, we head to the Colombo Lotus Tower - the tallest building in Sri Lanka. The lotus flower is a symbol of purity in the country and its design represents a blossoming bud. In the evening, this striking tower is illuminated. At the top of the tower, we enter a revolving restaurant for dinner with spectacular 360° views of the city - an unforgettable end to our exploration of Sri Lanka.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY16Homeward bound

On this cultural journey through two countries, we have uncovered both the similarities and differences between southern India and Sri Lanka. Blending opportunities for relaxation with immersive experiences, we have discovered the fascinating history of Kochi before savouring the aromas of Thekkady's spice fields. Tea has featured in our explorations of both countries, discovering about the heritage and production of the popular drink on tours of Munnar and Kandy. We witnessed the closing ceremony at the Meenakshi Amman Temple and saw a Buddhist relic. Sri Lanka revealed its appeal in the tropical coast of Negombo and elephants of Habarana to the mighty Sigiriya Lion Rock fortress and charming tea train.

After breakfast in Colombo, your exploration of southern India and Sri Lanka concludes and we transfer to the airport for our flight back home. Landing at London Heathrow this evening, you can make your own way home.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Classic collection

Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

If your tour is marked as Small Group, enjoy a more immersive holiday experience, exploring with a like-minded group of just 22 travellers on average.

Departure times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with our dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We write to all booked customers approximately 10 weeks prior to the start of their tour to advise the exact departure and return time for their particular group.

Visa requirements
Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Hotels

Habarana Village by Cinnamon
Habarana Village by Cinnamon, Habarana
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Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Kochi
Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Kochi
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Taj Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Madurai
Taj Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Madurai
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Spice Village, Thekkady
Spice Village, Thekkady
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Fragrant Nature Hotel & Spa, Munnar
Fragrant Nature Hotel & Spa, Munnar
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Jetwing Sea Hotel, Negombo
Jetwing Sea Hotel, Negombo
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Kandy Myst by Cinnamon, Kandy
Kandy Myst by Cinnamon, Kandy
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The Grand, Nurawa Eliya
The Grand, Nurawa Eliya
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Hilton, Colombo
Hilton, Colombo
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Enhance your holiday

Extend your holiday

Extend your holiday by making alternative flight arrangements. Please call us to discuss your ideas and requirements.

Extend your holiday
Flight upgrades

Flight upgrades are available. For information regarding the types of upgrades offered by the airlines we use, call our expert team for details.

Flight upgrades
London Hotels

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

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We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

London hotels