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Adventure Tours   >   Asia Adventure Tours   >  India to Sri Lanka: Spice Gardens & Goa's Beaches

India to Sri Lanka: Spice Gardens & Goa's Beaches Adventure Tour

Asia

  • India

This is the ultimate 25-day adventure through India and Sri Lanka, packed with culture, coastline, and incredible connections. Wander through the buzzing streets of Delhi, marvel at Rajasthan's palaces, and soak up the sun in Goa's beach towns. Explore ancient ruins in Hampi, drift through Kerala's dreamy backwaters, and sip your way through lush tea and spice gardens. Then, hop over to Sri Lanka to hike misty highlands, visit local homestays, and toast to new friendships at hidden bars. From historic wonders to laid-back coastal vibes, this journey is all about unforgettable moments in two of the world's most vibrant destinations.


Max Pax  

18


Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.


Group Size Notes  

Max 18, avg 16.


Optional Activities  

Hampi
- Matanga Hill Hike

Mysore
- Mysore Palace Visit (200INR per person, 1500INR per group)

Varkala
- Janardhana Swamy Temple Visit

Dharamshala
- Ayurvedic Massage

Kochi
- Kathakali Dance (500INR per person)

Sigiriya
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress Visit (30USD per person)
- Dambulla Cave Temple Visit (12USD per person)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient Capital Visit (25USD per person)

Kandy
- Royal Botanical Gardens Visit (10USD per person)
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Tour (10USD per person)
- Kandyan Cultural Dance (5-8USD per person)

Horton Plains Nature Reserve
- Horton Plains Trek (60-70USD per person)

Ella
- Trek to Ella Rock

Unawatuna
- Dolphin Watching Tour


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.


What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Lunch at Theruvarom Women Empowerment Project, Alleppey
Your G for Good Moment: Breakfast at Sthree Craft Shop and Café, Kandy
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Big Night Out Moment: Ooty
Your Local Living Moment: Alleppey Homestay, Alleppey
Your Big Night Out Moment: Kochi Nightlife, Kochi
Your Big Night Out Moment: Hikkaduwa Beach Bar, Hikkaduwa. Free time in Hampi & Ooty. Hampi Ruins Wlaking Tour. Kishkinda Foundation Visit. Anjaneya Temple Sunset. Devaraja Market Visit. Chamundi Hills Visit. Monolithic Bull Visit. Dodapetta Peak. Dodapetta Tea Factory. Fort Kochi Visit. Orientation walks in Alleppey, Kollam, and Fort Kochi. Kerala boat tour. Morning ferry cruise on Alleppey's backwaters. Sri Lankan lunch at a local village. Spice garden visit. Tea plantation tour. Little Adam's Peak Tour. Galle Fort tour. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Highlights  

Explore the ancient wonders of the Hampi Ruins, Catch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from Dodapetta Peak and Anjaneya Temple, Wander off the beaten path in Mysore with visits to Devaraja Market and Chamundi Hills, Relax in the calm backwaters, experience a local homestay, chill out on quiet beaches, explore ecosystems aboard an Alleppey ferry cruise, sample South Indian cuisine, Trek through luscious green hills, journey amongst Sri Lanka's most breath-taking scenery, sample local cuisine at a village meal, inhale local flavours at a spice garden, explore southern Sri Lankan beaches


Group Leader Description  

This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.


Meals Included  

3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners


A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.


Packing List  

Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Train Travel (Optional):
• Slip-on shoes
• Small container with lid
• Travel cutlery
• Travel or camp cup

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear


Accommodation  

Simple hotels or guesthouse (twin-share) (23 nts), homestay (1 nt).


Transport  

Tuk-tuk, local bus, taxi, overnight train, local train, Private Vehicle.

Day 1 Goa

Arrive at any time and welcome to India's popular beach town - Goa!

Tonight, opt to join your group for a dinner out on the town and cheers to new adventures and friends!

Day 2 Goa/Hampi

Head inland to Hampi on a train this morning. Then jump into a tuk-tuk to the hotel for the next two nights. With free time this evening, opt to catch the sunset or explore Hampi.

Day 3 Hampi

Explore the ancient ruins of Hampi. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the mid 1300's. Rome through the ruins and royal structures. In the afternoon, visit the local women's initiative, Kishkinda Foundation. Meet the women, shop in their handicraft store and have a delicious lunch together.

Day 4 Hampi/Mysore

This morning, opt to rise early for a hike up Mantanga Hill and enjoy a stunning sunrise over the rocky hill. Spend the day at leisure exploring of Hampi what you might have missed the day before. This evening, take a tuk-tuk to the train station for an overnight train to Mysore.

Day 5 Mysore

Pull into Mysore this morning as you wake up on the train. Then drop your bags, freshen up and head out for an adventure in Mysore. Walk through the Devaraja Market, Chamundi Hills and the Monolithic Bull. In your free time, opt to visit the extravagant Mysore Palace. In the evening, you won't want to miss the chance to see a Bollywood movie in your free time.

Day 6 Mysore/Ooty

Take a tuk-tuk to the bus station this morning and join the locals on a public bus south to Ooty. Take an orientation walk with your CEO after arrival and then enjoy some free time in the beautifully green town of Ooty.

Day 7 Ooty

Feel a sense of accomplishment this morning as we rise early for a picturesque sunrise hike up Dodapetta Peak with a view of the lush green surrounding forrest. Enjoy some free time today and opt to ride the famous toy train. In the afternoon, visit the Dodabetta Tea Factory.

Day 8 Kochi

A bus, a train and tuk-tuk ride brings us to beautiful port town of Kochi! Spend the afternoon exploring this super cute city, wandering through the cobblestone streets and vibrant culture. Some new travellers may be joining you this evening. Join your CEO to help welcome everyone this evening.

Day 9 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 10 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 11 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 12 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 13 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 14 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 15 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 16 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 17 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 18 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 19 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 20 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 21 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 22 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 23 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 24 Hikkaduwa

Another day in paradise to recover from last nights fun. Relax on the beach, snorkel with sea creatures, 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 25 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.

Details

Prices from: €1949.00

Duration: 25 Days

Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Trip Type: Small Group

Merchandising: New Trips

Physical Grading: 2 - Light

Service Level: Basic

Merchandising: Planeterra Project



Call Us: 01 2311889



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