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Trails of Tradition: Discovering South India and Sri Lanka

Package price On Request

Product Code : AGORA784

Embark on the "Trails of Tradition: Discovering South India and Sri Lanka" private tour, a captivating journey through the cultural heartlands of both regions. Delve into the ancient traditions and architectural wonders of South India, from the vibrant city of Cochin to the majestic temples of Madurai and the historic sites of Thanjavur. Then, set foot in Sri Lanka, where you'll explore the enchanting city of Kandy, the cultural triangle of Sigiriya, and the pristine beaches of Bentota. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of these two captivating destinations.

Day 1: Arrive Cochin

Upon your arrival at Cochin, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the vibrant city on your own.

 

Day 2: Cochin - Alleppey

After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Cochin, also known as Kochi. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue. In the evening, proceed to Alleppey, known for its serene backwaters. Check into your houseboat and enjoy an overnight stay, cruising through the picturesque backwaters.

 

Day 3: Alleppey - Thekkady (140kms)

After breakfast, check out from the houseboat and drive to Thekkady. Upon arrival, visit a spice plantation and learn about the aromatic spices grown in the region. Later in the evening, witness a traditional martial art and Kathakali dance show, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

 

Day 4: Thekkady - Madurai (160kms)

Start your day with an exhilarating boat safari on the Periyar Lake in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot a variety of wildlife and enjoy the serene surroundings. After the safari, drive to Madurai, a vibrant city known for its magnificent temples. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a stunning architectural marvel. Overnight stay in Madurai.

 

Day 5: Madurai - Trichy (140kms)

After breakfast, explore the city of Madurai further. Visit the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its grandeur and architectural beauty. Later, drive to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), a city famous for its ancient temples. Visit the iconic Rockfort Temple and the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest Hindu temples in India. Overnight stay in Trichy.

 

Day 6: Trichy - Thanjavur (60kms)

After breakfast, continue your sightseeing in Trichy. Visit the Jambukeswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the iconic St. Joseph's Church. Later, drive to Thanjavur (Tanjore) and explore the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural masterpiece. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

 

Day 7: Thanjavur - Pondicherry (180kms)

After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry, a charming coastal town known for its French influence. Enroute, visit the magnificent Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, both great living Chola temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also, visit the famous Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram. Continue your drive to Pondicherry and check into your hotel. In the evening, explore the serene beaches and quaint streets of this unique town. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.

 

Day 8: Pondicherry - Mahabalipuram - Chennai (160kms)

After breakfast, drive to Chennai via Mahabalipuram. In Mahabalipuram, visit the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, and the Five Rathas, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites and remarkable examples of ancient rock-cut architecture. Continue your drive to Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Chennai.

 

Day 9: Chennai - Colombo (flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Colombo, Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Colombo. Later, embark on a city tour of Colombo, the vibrant capital of Sri Lanka. Visit the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, the National Museum, the Independence Memorial Hall, and the vibrant Pettah Market. Take a stroll along Galle Face Green, a popular promenade overlooking the Indian Ocean. Overnight stay in Colombo.

 

Day 10: Colombo - Sigiriya (170kms)

After breakfast, depart for Sigiriya. En route, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can witness these gentle giants up close and even participate in their feeding. Continue your journey to Sigiriya and check-in to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning rock cave paintings and statues.

 

Day 11: Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa - Sigiriya

After breakfast, embark on a memorable climb to the top of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the ancient frescoes and marvel at the engineering brilliance of this ancient rock citadel. In the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved ruins and archaeological sites. Explore the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and the Sacred Quadrangle. Return to Sigiriya for an overnight stay.

 

Day 12: Sigiriya - Kandy (90kms)

After breakfast, proceed to the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy. En route, visit a spice garden in Matale and learn about the different spices grown in Sri Lanka. Upon arrival in Kandy, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. In the evening, enjoy a cultural dance performance showcasing traditional Sri Lankan music, dance, and drumming. Overnight stay in Kandy.

 

Day 13: Kandy - Nuwara Eliya (80kms)

After breakfast, leave for Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England" due to its pleasant climate and colonial-era architecture. En route, visit the Ramboda Falls and a tea plantation, where you can witness the process of tea production. Arrive in Nuwara Eliya and explore the picturesque city, including the scenic Gregory Lake and the Hakgala Botanical Garden. Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

 

Day 14: Nuwara Eliya - Yala (150kms)

After breakfast, depart for Yala, home to the renowned Yala National Park. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari in Yala National Park, where you can spot a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and crocodiles. Overnight stay in Yala.

 

Day 15: Yala - Galle - Bentota (190kms)

After breakfast, proceed to Bentota, a picturesque coastal town. En route, visit the historic city of Galle, known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture. Explore the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stroll through the charming streets filled with boutique shops and cafes. Continue your journey to Bentota and check into your beachfront hotel. Overnight stay in Bentota.

 

Day 16: Bentota - Colombo (80kms)/ Departure Flight

After breakfast, bid farewell to the beautiful beach town of Bentota and embark on a scenic drive to Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. Upon arrival in Colombo, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 15 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.

- Daily breakfast at hotels.

- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

- Any flight tickets.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.