31 Day India's Heritage & Sri Lanka's Highlights

Welcome to India! Founded in the 16th century by Guru Ram Das, Amritsar holds deep cultural and religious significance and is best known as home to the magnificent Golden Temple.On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.Enjoy your evening at leisure. Special Information Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

This morning after breakfast, set out on a sightseeing tour of Amritsar, beginning at the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine of Sikhism, with its striking golden façade and serene sarovar. Continue to Jallianwala Bagh, a moving memorial to the events of 1919, and the nearby Partition Museum, which preserves personal stories and artefacts from one of the largest human migrations in history. In the late afternoon, travel to the Attari–Wagah Border to witness the spirited Beating Retreat ceremony, a coordinated drill and flag-lowering performance carried out daily by Indian and Pakistani forces. Following the ceremony, return to your hotel. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at a local Indian restaurant celebrating regional flavours and warm hospitality. Inspiring Highlights Golden Temple visit Jallianwala Bagh and Partition Museum Attari–Wagah Border ceremony Special Information The Wagah Border ceremony involves crowds, sun exposure and walking. Comfortable footwear, sun protection and a refillable water bottle are recommended.

This morning is at leisure to enjoy your hotel surroundings before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. India's vibrant capital is a dynamic blend of history and modernity, where centuries-old monuments stand beside contemporary architecture, and the bustling lanes of Old Delhi give way to the grandeur of Lutyens' New Delhi. On arrival, a local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy your evening at leisure. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be escorted.

This morning after breakfast, head out to explore the bustling streets, vibrant markets and historic architecture of Old Delhi, with a drive past the imposing Red Fort and a rickshaw ride through the lanes of Chandni Chowk. Continue into New Delhi to see India Gate and the surrounding government buildings of Lutyens' Delhi. Next, soak in the spiritual and cultural ambience of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, where you may take part in langar, the communal meal that reflects Sikh values of equality and service. Afterwards, visit Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site that inspired the design of the Taj Mahal, and stroll through its peaceful gardens. Enjoy your evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Old Delhi sightseeing with rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk India Gate and Lutyens' Delhi drive Gurudwara Bangla Sahib visit Humayun's Tomb

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and the spiritual heart of India. Set along the sacred River Ganges, it is a place where ancient rituals, winding lanes and vibrant ghats come together in a powerful tapestry of culture and devotion. On arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to rest and refresh. This evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a mesmerising ritual along the sacred river, accompanied by reflections from a cultural guide who will share insights into its spiritual significance and local traditions. Inspiring Highlights • Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be escorted.

Begin the day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, observing the morning rituals along the ghats as the city awakens to the river's rhythm. There is the chance to take part in the ceremony by gently releasing earthen lamps onto the water, creating a quiet moment of personal connection. Disembark at Manikarnika Ghat and walk through the temple corridor, with views of Manikarnika Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple from outside. Return to the hotel for breakfast, then travel to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where the Buddha is said to have given his first sermon. Later in the afternoon, meet local silk weavers, watch their demonstrations and hear their stories about preserving a centuries-old craft. After a day rich with sightseeing, unwind on your final evening in Varanasi at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges Walk through the ghats and temple corridor Sarnath Buddhist site Silk weavers visit

This morning is free to enjoy the facilities at your hotel. In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station and board your train to Agra in air-conditioned executive class. Enjoy the scenic views as you pass through the beautiful countryside. A simple dinner will be served on board by Indian Railways. Upon your late arrival in Agra, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours. Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader. On the train, you will be travelling in the air-conditioned Executive Class. A simple dinner is served on the train as a pre-packed meal. Please note that these trains cannot accommodate special dietary requirements. If needed, your tour leader can assist you in purchasing food in advance before boarding.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed start before heading out to visit Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah, both showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the Mughal era. Inspiring Highlights Agra Fort Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb

Rise early for a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, the iconic symbol of love and one of the world's most celebrated examples of Mughal architecture. Return to your hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, depart Agra and travel by road to Jaipur, stopping en route at Abhaneri to visit the remarkable Chand Baori Stepwell, a striking example of ancient water-management architecture. Continue on to Jaipur, the Pink City, a vibrant blend of royal heritage and bustling markets, arriving at your hotel in the evening. Inspiring Highlights Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal Chand Baori Stepwell at Abhaneri Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

This morning after breakfast, begin the day with a jeep ride up to the magnificent Amber Fort, where you will explore its stunning architecture and royal courtyards. Continue on to a hands-on block-printing workshop, learning traditional techniques and gaining insight into the social and cultural context of this enduring craft. The afternoon is at leisure for shopping or relaxing. You may like to wander the colourful bazaars of the old city for textiles, jewellery and handicrafts, take time to relax at your hotel, or enjoy a leisurely Indian lunch nearby. Inspiring Highlights Amber Fort jeep ride and visit Block-printing workshop

This morning after breakfast, set off on a walking tour of Jaipur's old city, soaking up the sights, sounds and colours of its lively streets. Drive past the iconic Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, before exploring the City Palace and the fascinating Jantar Mantar observatory, two landmarks that beautifully reflect Jaipur's royal heritage and scientific achievement. Inspiring Highlights Old city walking tour Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) drive past City Palace Jantar Mantar observatory

After breakfast, set off on a scenic road journey to Rohet Garh, travelling via Jodhpur. Rising majestically from the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is famed for its blue-painted houses and the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, which towers over the city. Visit the fort and enjoy a walking tour of the blue old town and its famous spice market. Here, you will have the chance to meet The Spice Girls of Rajasthan, a remarkable sister team who transformed a humble family spice stall into a globally admired, women-led business, hand-crafting exquisite spice blends while preserving their father's legacy. In the late afternoon, continue on to Rohet Garh, an intimate heritage property, where you will check in for a two-night stay. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at the hotel. Inspiring Highlights Mehrangarh Fort visit Walking tour of Jodhpur's blue old city Spice market visit and meeting with The Spice Girls of Rajasthan Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

This morning after breakfast, head out on a jeep safari through the surrounding rural villages, meeting households of the Bishnoi community to gain insight into daily life, traditional crafts and community practices. You will also hear the inspiring story of Amrita Devi, remembered for her remarkable commitment to nature and her courage in protecting a khejri tree from being cut down in 1730, a legacy of environmental stewardship that endures to this day. The afternoon is at leisure to relax by the pool, wander through the village or simply enjoy your tranquil heritage surroundings. This evening, gather for dinner at the hotel in its atmospheric heritage setting. Inspiring Highlights Bishnoi village jeep safari

After breakfast, depart Rohet Garh and travel by road to Udaipur, stopping en route at the magnificent Ranakpur Jain Temples, renowned for their intricately carved marble interiors and remarkable craftsmanship. Continue on to Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes, a romantic city of serene waterways, grand palaces and timeless royal heritage. On arrival, check in at your hotel. Inspiring Highlights Ranakpur Jain Temples Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

This morning after breakfast, set out to visit the magnificent City Palace, perched above Lake Pichola, then continue on to Jagdish Temple and the elegant gardens of Saheliyon-ki-Bari, the 'Garden of the Maidens'. Afterwards, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, soaking in postcard views of the palaces, temples and ghats that line its shores. The afternoon is at leisure for shopping or relaxing. You may like to browse the local bazaars for miniature paintings, silver jewellery and traditional textiles, enjoy a quiet lakeside coffee, or simply unwind back at your hotel. Inspiring Highlights City Palace, Jagdish Temple and Saheliyon-ki-Bari Boat ride on Lake Pichola

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Kochi, via Delhi. You'll arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon or early evening. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours. Your flights documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader. Your included flights allows one checked bag up to 15kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed.You'll travel on your flights independently, and will meet your new Kerala tour leader tomorrow.

This morning after breakfast, meet your tour leader and the rest of your group for a welcome meeting and brief of the days ahead. You will then set out on a sightseeing tour of Kochi. Visit the Portuguese-built Mattancherry Dutch Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue before exploring the historic streets of Fort Kochi. Stop in at St. Francis Church, which still holds the palm-leaf title deed handed by the local Raja to the occupying Portuguese in 1503. Walk along the waterfront to admire the iconic Chinese fishing nets, a lasting reminder of the Oriental influences that have long shaped this spice-trading coastline. You may even get the chance to lend the local fishermen a hand pulling in the day's catch. Return to the hotel after the tour. This evening, head out on a relaxing harbour cruise to take in the sunset over the water. Inspiring Highlights Mattancherry Dutch Palace Paradesi Synagogue Fort Kochi area St. Francis Church Sunset harbour cruise Special Information The Paradesi Synagogue is closed on Friday, Saturday and Jewish holidays. St. Francis Church is closed on Sunday during mass. If your visit falls on these days, the order of sightseeing may be adjusted. Visitors to the Jewish Synagogue should be modestly dressed. Admission will be denied to men and women wearing short pants/shorts and t-shirts/blouses. Bare shoulders and exposed midriffs are not allowed inside the synagogue.

After breakfast, depart Kochi and travel south to Alappuzha. On arrival, board your traditional houseboat for a memorable overnight cruise through Kerala's iconic backwaters. As you glide along the canals and lagoons, watch village life unfold along the banks, paddy fields stretch into the distance, and fishermen at work in the still waters. Lunch is served on board, and as the sun sets the houseboat will moor at a quiet stretch of waterway for the night, where dinner will follow. Inspiring Highlights Backwater houseboat cruise Sunset over the Alleppey backwaters Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.The air conditioner on the houseboat operates only from 9pm to 7am.

Enjoy breakfast on board as the houseboat begins your final morning on the water. After disembarking, continue by road to Kumarakom, one of the most peaceful corners of Kerala. Known for its lush paddy fields, gentle backwater scenery, and traditional crafts such as coir making, this village offers a true glimpse of life in God's Own Country. Later, set out on a guided walk through Kumarakom village to meet locals and experience daily life away from the busier tourist trails. You might also like to wander the quiet town or browse the local market for handicrafts before returning to the hotel. Enjoy your evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Guided Kumarakom village tour Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

After breakfast, depart Kumarakom and travel towards Thekkady in the Idukki district. The name itself conjures up images of elephants, rolling hills, and air thick with the scent of cardamom and pepper. On arrival, settle into your hotel for a two-night stay. In the late afternoon, head to a local theatre to witness a Kalaripayattu performance, considered one of the oldest martial art forms in the world. The name loosely translates to 'practice of arms in the training ground', and the dynamic display of movement, weaponry, and discipline is something you won't soon forget. The evening is free for you to relax and enjoy at the hotel. Inspiring Highlights Kalaripayattu martial arts performance Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

After breakfast, set out on a guided green walk with a local forest naturalist to learn about the flora and fauna of the Periyar region. The area is a haven for birdlife and a favourite of keen ornithologists, with the chance to spot a remarkable variety of species along the trail. In the afternoon, head out on a plantation walk to see how cardamom, pepper, and other spices are grown, harvested, and processed. Continue on to the bustling Kumily Spice Market for a glimpse of the trade that has shaped this region for centuries. Enjoy your evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Guided green walk in Periyar Spice plantation tour Kumily Spice Market visit Special Information The green walk is subject to weather conditions and may be amended on the day if conditions are unsuitable.

After breakfast, leave the cool hills of Thekkady behind and make your way back down to the coastal city of Kochi. On arrival, check in to your hotel. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure. You might choose to take a quiet stroll along Marine Drive at the Kochi waterfront, browse the antique and craft shops that line the streets of the old town, or pick up some last-minute souvenirs at one of the local shopping streets. A relaxed cup of cardamom chai at a nearby café is a lovely way to round out your time in Kerala. Tonight is at your leisure to enjoy a final dinner at a local eatery of your choice. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and free time before heading to the airport in the early afternoon. Welcome to Sri Lanka! On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in the late afternoon, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. The evening is yours to relax at leisure. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. You'll travel on your flights independently, and will meet your new Sri Lanka tour leader tomorrow. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 25kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed.

Enjoy a leisurely morning, and meet your tour guide and the rest of your group in the hotel lobby at 11am for a welcome briefing. Your guide will walk you through the journey ahead and introduce your fellow travellers. Afterwards, set off for Sigiriya. En route, stop at Sri Lanka's first green distillery for a guided tour through the history and craft of arrack making, finishing with a tasting of the country's most celebrated spirit. Continue with a walk through a lush coconut estate, where skilled toddy tappers still gather fermented coconut sap by traversing tightropes high above the ground, a tradition passed down through generations. Arrive in Sigiriya and check in to your hotel, with time to settle in before sitting down to dinner at the hotel. Inspiring Highlights Green Distillery tour and arrack tasting Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast, head out for a relaxed guided walk through a traditional village. Quiet pathways wind through paddy fields and lush greenery as your guide shares insights into local customs and everyday rural life. You may have the chance to sample fresh seasonal fruits and meet some of the friendly villagers along the way. At lunchtime, enjoy a hands-on Sri Lankan cooking experience where you will learn to prepare a traditional rice and curry spread of five to six dishes. Discover how coconut milk is made, try your hand at cracking and scraping a coconut, then sit down to enjoy your creations for lunch with views over the paddy fields. This afternoon, journey to the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as Sri Lanka's royal capital from 1017 to 1235 AD. Wander among remarkably preserved temples, palaces, and statues that tell the story of one of the country's most significant historical eras. Return to your hotel for dinner. Inspiring Highlights Guided village walk Traditional Sri Lankan cooking experience Polonnaruwa UNESCO World Heritage Site Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Set off early this morning to climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka's most remarkable ancient sites. Built between 477 and 498 AD and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this rocky citadel rises dramatically from the surrounding plains and rewards the climb with sweeping views and centuries-old frescoes tucked into its sheer walls. Return to the hotel for breakfast and some time at leisure. This afternoon, board a private jeep for a safari in Minneriya National Park, famous for The Gathering, an extraordinary natural phenomenon during the dry season when hundreds of elephants converge around the Minneriya Tank. It is one of the largest seasonal gatherings of Asian elephants anywhere in the world. Return to the hotel for dinner. Inspiring Highlights Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress climb Private jeep safari in Minneriya National Park Special Information Since elephants are migratory animals, we may visit Kaudualla or Eco Park on this day instead, pending elephant locations. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours, not including Jeep Safari.

After breakfast, set off for Kandy. En route, stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 1st century BC. Perched high on a rock face, the temple complex houses around 150 Buddha statues alongside intricate murals and figures of Hindu deities, making it one of the most impressive cave temples in Sri Lanka. Arrive in Kandy and settle into your hotel. Later in the afternoon, around 5:00 PM, head into the city for a leisurely stroll around the lake before exploring at your own pace. As evening sets in, you may pick a restaurant that takes your fancy and enjoy a relaxed dinner in Kandy. Inspiring Highlights Dambulla Cave Temple Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast, head to the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, just outside Kandy. Spread across 147 acres, the gardens are home to a vast variety of orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and towering palms. Wander the manicured lawns and shaded avenues at a leisurely pace. Return to the hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. This evening, enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan cultural performance featuring music, dance, and drumming that reflects centuries of local heritage. Afterwards, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism's most sacred sites. Brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD, the relic has long been a symbol of sovereignty for the island's rulers and is enshrined within the temple in great splendour. Return to your hotel for dinner. Inspiring Highlights Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya Traditional Sri Lankan cultural performance Temple of the Tooth Relic

After breakfast, set off for Nuwara Eliya, often known as Little England for its cool climate and colonial-era character. The drive takes you through some of the most scenic stretches of the central highlands, with rolling hills, manicured tea estates, and misty mountain vistas unfolding along the way. En route, visit a tea plantation and factory to see the journey of Sri Lanka's famous Ceylon tea from leaf to cup. You will learn about the picking and processing methods that have defined the industry for well over a century, and there will be the chance to purchase quality tea if you wish. Continue on to Nuwara Eliya and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is at your leisure. While in Nuwara Eliya, you may like to take a stroll through the centre of town to admire the colonial-era post office, Victoria Park, and the racecourse. The local market is a pleasant way to soak up the atmosphere of this charming hill station, and Gregory Lake is an easy walk or short tuk-tuk ride from the town centre for a quiet wander along the water. Inspiring Highlights Tea plantation and factory visit Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast, depart Nuwara Eliya for the journey to Colombo. On arrival, check in to your hotel, with the rest of the day at your leisure to relax after the journey. If you feel like venturing out, Colombo blends colonial heritage with modern energy. A wander along Galle Face Green is a classic way to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean, while the Pettah district is lively and atmospheric with small shops and historic buildings tucked along every street. Independence Square and the surrounding arcade offer pleasant strolling and a quiet spot to relax over a coffee. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

After breakfast, set out to explore Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital. The city's long history as a port on east-west trade routes is still visible today, with colonial architecture sitting side by side with modern high-rises and shopping districts. Visit the imposing Colombo National Museum, dedicated to the country's history and home to an impressive collection of royal regalia, ancient manuscripts, and cultural artefacts that bring Sri Lanka's heritage to life. Return to the hotel around 2pm where a day room is available for your use until 8pm, before being transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport in time for your onward flight. We hope you have wonderful memories of your time in Sri Lanka, and we look forward to welcoming you on another journey with us soon. Special InformationPlease note that the Colombo National Museum will be closed every Monday for maintenance starting September 1, 2025. As an alternative, Polonnaruwa Museum will be visited instead. Your city tour will finish at around 2:00 PM, and a day-use room is available until 8:00 PM. We recommend booking your flights accordingly to allow time for the tour. Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. If you choose to extend your stay (e.g., departing after the final tour date) and have booked your additional accommodation independently, this included service will be forfeited and no refund will be issued. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.