Premium India and Sri Lanka

Intrepid Travel · 19 days

5.0

1 Reviews

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Duration

19 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Welcome to South Asia, where ancient religions, deep heritage and wild wonders are laced through cultural riches and spice-laden cuisine.

Highlights

Discover the beauty in famed structures, from Jaipur’s Amber Fort and Royal City Palace to Agra’s Red Fort and iconic Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World! Then, see the ruins and stupas of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka.
Taste the best of Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine during Exclusive Experiences, including a street food tour in Varanasi, a meal in the home of a local family in Jaipur, a cooking demo with a local grandmother in Polonnaruwa and a Spice Garden visit in Matale.
Experience history firsthand with your historical Feature Stays at family-owned heritage hotel in Jaipur and a historic mansion with a new sustainable lease on life in Nuwara Eliya.
Take part in Exclusive Experiences to remember – cruise down the Ganges at sunset accompanied by local musicians and get an immersive look at rural life in Ambagasthenna.
Spot elephants, monkeys and tropical birds on a safari through the wild grasslands of Minneriya National Park.

Trip Details

Duration

19 days

Transportation

Auto rickshaw,Boat,Cycle rickshaw,Metro,Plane,Private vehicle,Jeep,scenic train

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Delhi, India

Finishes

Colombo, India

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Delhi

Namaste! Welcome to India. When you arrive at Delhi Airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and an included transfer will bring you 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.

Included Activities:

Delhi - Welcome dinner

Accommodation:

The Grand Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Delhi

Start the day with a leader-led tour of the most ancient part of the city in Old Delhi. 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.

Included Activities:

Old Delhi City Tour
Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
Delhi - Jama Masjid (Shoe Keeper)
Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque

Accommodation:

The Grand Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Agra

Today, you’ll head south 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 Taj Mahal guide will tell you its history as you stroll the grounds at sunset. You’re likely familiar with North Indian cuisine (butter chicken anyone?), and tonight, your local expert will take you to unknown places on a street food tour. Stop by a 19th-century shop serving up age-old recipes from the Braj region of India for dinner tonight, where you’ll visit hyperlocal eateries that most tourists never get to see.

Included Activities:

Agra - Taj Mahal
Agra - Expert-led street food tour (as dinner)

Accommodation:

Grand Mercure Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Jaipur

Visit Agra Fort – widely considered one of the finest-looking forts in India. Learn how Akbar built a fortress and prison out of red sandstone in 1565 and how Shah Jahan transformed it into a palace. After, you’ll journey to Jaipur – the capital of Rajasthan – for 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 but with regal touches at every turn – think chandeliers, stained glass windows and peacocks roaming the grounds. Later, join your leader on a walking tour through the crowded streets and 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.

Included Activities:

Agra - Agra Fort Visit
Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk
Jaipur - Home-cooked dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Jaipur

Trade one fort for the next as you visit Amber Fort, the crown jewel of Jaipur. On your guided tour you’ll learn stories of a fallen empire as you explore ornate rooms, murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Head to the City Palace – a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Tour the grounds and learn about its construction by the founder of Jaipur. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free for you to explore at your leisure. Maybe pay a visit to the Jantar Mantar Observatory, one the world’s most accurate pre-modern observatories which dates to 1729 or take in the city from the air in a balloon flight. You'll probably want to sample some Rajasthani street food after, like pyaaz kachori (crispy pastry filled with spiced onion).

Included Activities:

Jaipur - Amber Fort
Jaipur - City Palace

Optional Activities:

Jaipur - Balloon Safari (280 USD)
Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory (200 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Lucknow

Enjoy a leisurely morning before flying east to Lucknow – the capital of India’s largest region, Uttar Pradesh. When you arrive, your leader will guide the group on an afternoon orientation walk to help you get acquainted with your new surroundings. This evening, join your group for dinner at a special spot – 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.

Included Activities:

Lucknow - Orientation Walk
Lucknow - Sheroes Dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Lucknow

Start the morning with a 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. Discover the culinary secrets of Lucknowites with an afternoon cooking class, gaining skills that you can hopefully put to good use at home! For dinner, maybe try to find somewhere serving Tunday Kebabi (a Lucknow delicacy that allegedly contains 160 spices).

Included Activities:

Lucknow City Tour
Lucknow – Awadhi Cooking Class

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Varanasi

Wake up early today for a unique slice of Indian life aboard an airconditioned train. 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.

Included Activities:

Orientation Walk in Varanasi
Varanasi - Evening Ganga aarti with musicians on boat
Varanasi - Ganges candle flower ceremony

Accommodation:

Ramada Katesar or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Varanasi

Head out 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, explore at your own pace before coming together again at Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The site is where Buddha preached his message of the path to enlightenment and features several stupas and museums to explore.

Included Activities:

Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
Sarnath Museum Visit
Sarnath Stupa Visit

Accommodation:

Ramada Katesar or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Delhi

Travel back to Delhi today. 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 dinner as a group. 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.

Included Activities:

Farewell Dinner at Haveli Dharampura

Optional Activities:

Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure (3750 INR)
Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
Delhi - Red Fort (600 INR)

Accommodation:

The Grand Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Negombo

This morning you will take an unescorted flight to the Sir Lankan capital Colombo to begin the second half of your trip. On arrival, you’ll be met by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your hotel in nearby Negombo. This evening you'll have a second group meeting to meet new your local leader and group members. If you arrive early, maybe relax on the beach or take a walk to get to know your surroundings. Later, get to know your new group a little better over a round of complementary cocktails and a welcome dinner of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine – prepare for rich scents, bold spices and deliciously unique flavours.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Negombo - Welcome Dinner

Accommodation:

Pledge Scape Hotel or Similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Negombo to Kurunegala to Habarana

Travel inland today towards Habarana. 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. Watch locals demonstrate 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. Share lunch at a local restaurant before travelling to Habarana – your home for the next three nights. When you’re settled into your hotel, the rest of the afternoon is free.

Included Activities:

Ridigama - Ridi Viharaya shrine visit and cultural experience

Accommodation:

Amaya Lake or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Habarana

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. Your leader will share stories of the ancient civilisation that once lived here as you climb – 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.

Included Activities:

Muriya Kadawala Village - Pottery Making Experience
Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit

Accommodation:

Amaya Lake or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Habarana

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.

Included Activities:

Minneriya National Park - Entrance Fee
Polonnaruwa - Bicycle Tour
Polonnaruwa - Cooking demo and lunch

Accommodation:

Amaya Lake or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

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.

Included Activities:

Matale – Spice Garden Visit.
Kandy - City Tour with the Temple of the Tooth

Optional Activities:

Kandy - Cultural Dance Show (7 USD)

Accommodation:

Amaya Hills or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

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.

Included Activities:

Ambagasthenna - Tea Plantation and Sustainable Farm Tour
Ambagasthenna - Village and Temple Tour
Ambagasthenna - Sunset Viewing with Drinks

Accommodation:

Amaya Hills or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

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.

Included Activities:

Nuwara Eliya - High Tea
Nanu Oya - Scenic Train Ride
Nuwara Eliya - Orientation Tour

Accommodation:

Grand Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

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.

Included Activities:

Colombo - Farewell Dinner
Colombo - Orientation Tour
Labukelle - Tea Plantation and Factory Visit

Accommodation:

The Kingsbury Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

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.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $9,660

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 19 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Welcome to South Asia, where ancient religions, deep heritage and wild wonders are laced through cultural riches and spice-laden cuisine.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 30 Oct 2025

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Diane

Traveled, October 2023

11/02/2023

Did the India and Sri Lanka Premium trip and had a fantastic time due to the tour guides and drivers. All guides were knowledgeable and friendly. The weather was perfect and it was a perfect mix of city and country with lots of culture and relaxation mixed in. Had two great guides both spoke great English and so willing to share information. Some long driving days but this was made up with interesting stops along the way and wonderful places for lunch. Would highly recommend this trip.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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