Compare Southern India and Sri Lanka Intensive Tour by Bravo Asia Tours vs India to Sri Lanka: The Pink City & Spice Gardens by G Adventures

Day 1: Mumbai
Namaste! Welcome to India. Meet your tour guide who holds Bravo Asia Tours’ greeting board at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. We will transfer to hotel so you can fresh up after your long flight. Start this incredible India tour with the one of the oldest cities of India – Mumbai. Formerly called Bombay, Mumbai is a vibrant metropolitan and No1 city, located on India’s west coast. On the Mumbai Harbour waterfront stands the iconic Gateway of India stone arch, built by the British Raj in 1924. Offshore, nearby Elephanta Island holds ancient cave temples dedicated to Shiva. The city is also famous as the heart of the Hindi-language Bollywood film industry. There will be no tour on this day so you can take some time to get used to the new time-zone. Overnight in Mumbai

Day 2: Mumbai - Aurangabad
Today, we will have one day city tour of Mumbai before we head to Aurangabad by air. The tour begins at the city’s signature landmark, the Gateway of India, situated overlooking Mumbai’s harbor. Drive around Horniman Circle and visit the Town Hall, right beside the docks of Mumbai, and the Victoria Terminus. Next, you will visit the Prince of Wales Museum, built to commemorate King George V’s first visit to India in 1905. Take a break for lunch then continue our tour to the Flora Fountain and Fort area where you can view the impressive Gothic and Victorian buildings that were constructed during the British Raj. Drive up to Malabar Hill where the hanging gardens five a panoramic view of the city and the Queen’s Necklace. The tour ends with a visit to the famous Dhobi Ghat where you can observe the age old tradition of the Dhobis doing Mumbai’s laundry. Transfer to airport and board your flight to Aurangabad. You are greeted upon arrival and driven to your hotel. Overnight

Day 3: Aurangabad
We will have a full day tour of the UNESCO world Heritage site – the Ajanta Caves. There are about 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments dated back to the 2nd B.C. The incredible variety of paintings and sculpture were created in hard rock by using primitive yet ingenious to the devotion of the Buddhists, as well as the talents of their skilled craftsmen. After the tour of Ajanta, we will drive back to hotel. Overnight in Aurangabad

Day 4: Aurangabad - Mumbai
After breakfast and check out your hotel, we will continue our tour in Aurangabad to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora Caves. There are 34 Caves and any one of them would individually be considered a significant attraction in most nations. Visit The Kailash Temple and Daulatabad Fort. This 14th century hilltop Fort is an impressive sight which’s once sloping sides were manually carved sheer on all sides so that no one could climb straight to the top. After this tour, we will drive to Aurangabad airport in time to board your evening flight to Mumbai. Drive to airport for check-in. Overnight in Mumbai

Day 5: Mumbai - Kochi/Cochin
After breakfast and check out your hotel, we will continue our tour to Cochin. Your tour guide of Bravo Asia Tours will meet you and hold the greeting board with your name on it. Transfer to hotel for rest until lunch. Start your exploration of South India with a tour to island of Cherai. Visit the 19th century Azheekkal Sree Varaha Venkateswara Temple – the temple Ratha then the Portuguese Fort, the Pallipuram Church. This exploration is followed by a walk on Cherai beach that allows you to experience coastal Keralan culture. In the evening, there will be a Kathakali dance show in local theatre. This dance is Kerala’s ancient performing art, which tell story through dancing and music. The dance form is an ancient forefather of many Asian dance forms. Overnight in Cochin

Day 6: Kochi/Cochin
Our tour of Cochin starts from the Jewish Synagogue (closed on Fridays and Saturdays), which was built in 1568 and is still an active house of worship for the few remaining Jews in the area. Then we will move on to Jew Street. After the Jew area, we will visit the St. Francis Church, one of the first European churches built in India. The famed Vasco Da Gama was buried in its courtyard for a few years before his remains were returned to Portugal. After lunch, our tour will continue to the most photogenic attractions in Cochin, the Chinese fishing nets. Tour ends with a short walking of Fort Kochi. We will be back to hotel so you can have a freshen up. This evening we will go to have dinner with a famous Keralan Chef and her family at their home. This is the highlight of our Cochin tour, you can even learn Keralan cuisine from the Chef. Overnight in Cochin

Day 7: Kochi/Cochin
The morning after breakfast, we will check out the hotel and drive to the backwaters. Your most treasured travel memories of this India tour start from boarding your houseboat at Alleppey. Overnight in onboard

Day 8: Backwaters - Kochi/Cochin - Colombo
Disembark from your houseboat in the morning and drive back to Cochin International Airport and catch the later afternoon flight to Colombo. Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Meet your tour guide at Bandaranaike International Airport and board on the vehicle to hotel in Colombo. Overnight in Colombo

Day 9: Colombo - Kandy
Today, you will then be transferred to the former Royal capital of Kandy (approximately 4hours). Once here, you will have time to settle into your hotel and to enjoy some time at leisure. Overnight in Kandy

Day 10: Kandy
Leisurely morning followed by a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most famous Buddhist sites, not just in Sri Lanka but in the religion worldwide followed by a visit to an early evening performance of traditional Kandyan Dance. Overnight in Kandy

Day 11: Kandy - Nuwara Eliya
Sri Lanka is renowned for its high quality black tea. Today’s journey is to the breathtaking mountainous region of Nuwara-Eliya which is considered to be the most important location for tea production in Sri Lanka. This 3 hours road trip is packed with scenic view of tea plantations and mountains. We will visit a tea plantation and a tea factory; learn how to classify tea and their helpful uses other than beverage. Overnight in Nuwara-Eliya

Day 12: Nuwara Eliya - Horton Plains National Park
This early morning after breakfast, we will drive (approximately 1 hours) to visit Horton Plains National Park, the coldest and windiest location on the island. It contains breathtaking landscapes and is important for conservation purposes. The park contains a bounty of endangered species of flora and fauna, and furthermore some of them are confined to the highlands of the island. Here you will be able to witness amazing landscapes, interspersed with rocky outcrops and beautiful lakes, many types of bird, animals and flowers. Overnight in Nuwara-Eliya

Day 13: Nuwara Eliya - Galle
This morning you depart the tea country and head south and along the coastline to Galle (approximately 6.5 hours driving), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where small back streets in the Dutch Fort provide a very charming experience. Evening at your own leisure. Overnight in Galle

Day 14: Galle
Today you will undertake a private city tour of Galle with your chauffeur guide. Galle is a UNESCO world heritage site and is home to a beautiful Dutch fort, with quaint streets and pretty walkways. The fort area is the largest remaining fortress of its kind in Asia! Overnight in Galle

Day 15: Galle
We don’t arrange any tour today in Galle. You can explore this city independently. If it is the right season you will have the chance to arrange a whale watching excursion. Galle whale watching trip is available from November to April. Ship is scheduled to sail on every Saturday and Sunday at 0700 hrs from Naval Base at Galle harbor. Overnight in Galle

Day 16: Galle - Bentota
This morning you will drive along the coast with your chauffeur guide to the sleepy town of Bentota and the beautiful crescent shaped beaches. In the afternoon your chauffeur-guide will take you to the lovely Brief Garden which is just outside of Bentota. Previously the home of the landscape architect Bevis Bawa, the gardens make for an interesting afternoon excursion. Overnight in Bentota

Day 17: Bentota
Enjoy a day at leisure today in Bentota. We would recommend going to visit a nearby turtle hatchery where a local project is helping to release baby turtles back into the ocean. Overnight in Bentota

Day 18: Bentota
Free day in Bentota. Overnight in Bentota

Day 19: Bentota
Free day in Bentota. Overnight in Bentota

Day 20: Bentota - Colombo
Your tour guide will be assistant of hotel check out, then escort you to the Colombo Airport for your onward flight. Our tour service is officially ends here. It is time for us to say goodbye this time. The whole team of Bravo Asia Tours looks forward to our next meeting on your trip to Asia.

Day 1 Delhi

Arrive at any time and welcome to India's bustling capital - Delhi! Tonight, wander through the electric Karol Bagh market for your first night out; pick the best looking spot and cheers to new adventures and friends!

Please note this tour departs Delhi early on Day 2, so book pre-accommodation if you would like to explore the city more in depth. Opt to wander through the heart of India's capital city and explore Old and New Delhi. Travel by the new metro or auto rickshaws and visit the famous Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) where you can climb the minaret for a bird's eye view of the old city. Explore Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets or head to the colourful spice market -- a great photo opportunity.

Day 2 Delhi/Āgra

Relax on the morning train to Agra while admiring the arid terrain and small towns. On arrival, check the famous Taj Mahal world wonder off your bucket list as you marvel at the iconic Mughal architecture. Immerse yourself in a guided tour and learn of the mausoleum's unique history. Opt to visit Baby Taj and the Agra Fort, the Taj’s less famous—but no less impressive—sister monument, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3 Āgra/Jaipur

Today we take a bus (always an adventure itself in India) to the capital of Rajasthan — Jaipur. Clothed in sandstone pink stucco, Jaipur is known as the "Pink City" and is one of the most important heritage cities in India. It's home to India’s second most visited site, the Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds." Ride a cycle rickshaw to the markets and enjoy an orientation walk through the stalls. In your free time, opt to visit the City Palace, the observatory, or check out a song-and-dance Bollywood film in India's largest movie theatre.

Day 4 Jaipur

Embark on a guided tour of Amber Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site to check off your list. The Fort's sandstone walls are perched on a hill almost blending in with the terrain, besides perfectly reflecting in Maota Lake creating a mirage effect (and perfect photograph). Wander through the halls, courtyards, and palaces inside and admire the intricate details. Afterward, head back to Jaipur and spend the free afternoon exploring with your fellow travellers and see where the night takes you.

Admire the city from above by pre-booking the Jaipur Balloon Ride when booking your tour. Or choose to visit Kitchen With A Cause and have a delicious meal that allows you to give back to the community.

Day 5 Jaipur/Tordi Sāgar

Ride to peaceful Tordi Sāgar and dive into rural life by visiting local potters, cobblers, and markets on a guided walk through the village. If you're feeling athletic, join in on a cricket match with some local players. In your free time, opt to bounce around with your new friends during a jeep safari or camel cart ride to the dunes for sunset. Head out for a hike in the hills or get a henna tattoo from local women. Tordi Sāgar is your oyster!

If you want to see more of Jaipur before departing, pre-book the Cycle Tour and explore the city from a morning perspective.

Day 6 Tordi Sāgar/Pushkar

Have a final taste of rural village life over a traditional lunch before travelling to Pushkar, often called Tirth Raj or the king of pilgrim centres. Cruise through Ajmer and over Snake Mountain to Pushkar — the site of the world’s only temple to the Hindu god of creation, Brahma. After settling into your accommodation, get your bearings on an orientation walk around the colourful city with cascading architecture and capture a group photo on the lake.

Day 7 Pushkar

Before dawn, climb to the hilltop Savitri Temple and catch the sun rising over the towering Thar Desert mountains. Afterward, reflect on the serenity at one of the many cafés in town, stretch and meditate during a calming yoga session, or scour the markets. Opt for an unforgettable evening by dressing in traditional Indian clothing and partake in an authentic dinner cooked by cameleers in the desert, all with live entertainment!

Day 8 Pushkar/Udaipur

Continue south to Udaipur, famous worldwide for its plethora of breathtaking lakes and Raj-era palaces. It certainly lives up to its reputation as India's most romantic city (wink, wink). With its own famous style of painting and plenty of artisans, Udaipur is a great place to stroll through. After the orientation walk, opt to take a boat ride on Lake Pichola with your fellow travellers.

Day 9 Udaipur

Free time to explore "Venice of the East" with its plethora lakes, palaces, and narrow lanes. Wander around solo or see who wants to join you on an adventure.

Discover the early morning serenity of the city by pre-booking the Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour, or opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Udaipur Cooking School class.

Day 10 Udaipur

Free time to explore "Venice of the East" with its plethora lakes, palaces, and narrow lanes. Wander around solo or see who wants to join you on an adventure.

Discover the early morning serenity of the city by pre-booking the Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour, or opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Udaipur Cooking School class.

Day 11 Udaipur/Mumbai

Take a local bus to Ahmedabad and explore the famous Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati. Immerse yourself in the peaceful environment of the riverside home that played an important role in India's freedom and learn of the sites unique history. From here, get some rest on an overnight train as you cruise to Mumbai.

Day 12 Mumbai

Arrive in Mumbai and stretch your legs on an orientation walk of Colaba and the Fort district. Enjoy a free day to uniquely explore the bustling metropolis; be sure to capture a group photo under the Gateway to India. Opt to take a boat to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Elephanta Island, famous for intricate cave temples carved in rock walls.

In the evening, opt for a cup of tea at the famous Taj Hotel and people-watch on Chowpatty Beach or visit Crawford Market, one of South Mumbai's most famous. Sample some local specialties at one of Mumbai’s many top-notch restaurants as you go out on the town with your fellow travellers and sample the city’s famed nightlife firsthand.

Day 13 Mumbai/Goa

Hop on a short morning flight to North Goa. Head to the white sand beaches, visit the many Portuguese-built monuments, wander around the churches of Old Goa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and discover Panjim, the capital. In the evening, opt to sample tasty treats at the night market and take in the nightlife of this coastal state.

Day 14 Goa

Enjoy a free day to wind down in the paradise that is Goa. Relax on the beaches with your favourite drink in hand or mingle in the many beach bars. Scour the markets, and be sure to try some delicious Goan cuisine and fresh seafood. Get ready to dance the night away for your big night out as a group. Enjoy a drink on us and cut a rug.

Day 15 Goa/Kochi

Fly to Kochi and explore this major port city of southern India by wandering through the unique neighbourhoods and exciting markets. Opt to visit Fort Kochi, learn how to toss a fishing net, or catch a traditional dance performance, known as Kathakali, telling of mythological tales.

Don't fret if you can't fit all the excitement into one afternoon, you'll get a second chance to experience Kochi when you return in a few days.

Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure (woo! new friends). You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening followed by an optional dinner.

Day 16 Kochi/Alleppey

Travel to Alleppey, a golden streak of land woven with rivers, lakes, lagoons, and canals. Enjoy an empowering lunch before checking out the island along the lagoon with a local guide and learn about the way of life here. Settle into a homestay and get to know your hosts.

Day 17 Alleppey/Kollam

Explore the unique ecosystem of Alleppey backwaters on a morning ferry cruise. Afterward, travel down the coast by bus to the port city of Kollam. On arrival, choose to relax on the beach, climb Thangassery Light House, or peruse the nightlife.

Day 18 Kollam/Varkala

Visit the Kollam Harbour and experience the importance of fishing for the community. Afterward, settle into a private vehicle and see who can count the most palm trees as you cruise down the coast to tropical Varkala. Enjoy lots of free time to explore the town, get treated by local healers, or visit the Varkala Temple.

Note that Kollam Harbour is closed to visitors May through June.

Day 19 Varkala

Choose your own adventure today, exploring Varkala solo or with your new friends. Spend time wandering the peaceful gardens of an ashram devoted to Kerala's most eminent spiritual and social reformer at the mystical Janardhana Swamy Temple. Or head to the beach and relax while watching the Arabian Sea with a drink in hand.

Day 20 Varkala/Kochi

Return to Kochi by train and take an orientation walk visiting Fort Kochi, St Francis Church, the Dutch cemetery, and the Jewish Quarter with curio shops and a synagogue more than 400-years-old. In the late afternoon, continue to wander the streets or opt to catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance. For your big night out as a group, immerse yourself in the exciting Kochi nightlife. Enjoy a drink on us and reminisce about the life-changing adventures you've shared.

Day 21 Kochi/Negombo

Fly from Kochi to the stunning island country of Sri Lanka, landing first in Negombo. Spend the evening at the beach relaxing under a leaning palm tree and toast to the sun a goodnight.

Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure (yay! more friends). You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening followed by an optional dinner.

Day 22 Negombo/Sigiriya

Travel to the centre of the island to explore the UNESCO World Heritage City, Sigiriya. Opt to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple or the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Day 23 Sigiriya

Spend the day freely exploring more of this ancient yet luscious region. Opt to visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, view elephants on a safari drive in Minneriya national park, or go back in time at the Anurhadhapura historical site.

Day 24 Sigiriya/Digana

Visit a medicinal spice garden en route to Digana. After, enjoy lunch before embarking on a guided village walk for insight into rural daily life. Maybe stop at the home of a crafter who hand-makes delicate Kandyan jewellery or the cottage of a local woman making incense. Later, learn how to cook Sri Lankan bread or sweets while helping out with dinner.

Day 25 Digana/Kandy

Enjoy breakfast and soak in the views of the Victoria Reservoir over tea before departing for Kandy. Have an afternoon of free time to explore the sweet city, opting to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, view a traditional Kandyan cultural show, or root for a team at a cricket match.

Day 26 Kandy/Nuwara Eliya

Enjoy a traditional breakfast prepared by women and youth living with disabilities at G Adventures-supported Sthree Craft Shop and Café. Travel on to the rolling hills and luscious forests of Nuwara Eliya. Visit a tea plantation and opt to explore the beauty on foot.

Day 27 Nuwara Eliya/Ella

If you want to experience morning mist flowing through the valley, wake early and trek the serene trails of Horton Plains National Park. In the afternoon, cruise to the laid-back village of Ella and enjoy a free evening to explore or relax.

Day 28 Ella

Spend the morning trekking Little Adam's Peak to get a 360-degree view of Sri Lankan countryside encompassing the giant Ella Rock and textured green mountains. For the rest of the day, enjoy the freedom to explore scenic Ella more in-depth. Opt to trek Ella Rock, venture to the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, or hunt for some waterfalls with your fellow explorers.

Day 29 Ella/Hikkaduwa

Set off towards the southern coast stopping en route to explore the indestructible Galle Fort. Finish the day's journey oceanside on the white sand beaches of Hikkaduwa.

Day 30 Hikkaduwa

Enjoy a free day to bliss out on the beach sipping your favourite drink or jump on a boat in search of whales and dolphins. For your big night out, follow your CEO to the best beach bar in town, enjoy a drink on us, and dance under the stars. Perhaps take a night swim, who knows, see where the night takes you.

Day 31 Hikkaduwa

Another day in paradise to recover from last nights fun. Relax on the beach, snorkel with sea creators, or wander through the bustling beach town. Pick a local restaurant with your buds and reminisce about all the awesome adventures you've experienced over a farewell dinner.

Day 32 Hikkaduwa

Wow! What a trip, right? Luckily there is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange social medias, and depart at any time.

The Colombo airport can be reached by private taxi or bus. Your CEO can help you arrange a transfer.