Sri Lanka x Marigold Tour

Ayubowan – welcome to beautiful Sri Lanka!

Your Sri Lankan adventure begins as you arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, where you'll be warmly welcomed by our local team and expert tour guide. Experience genuine Sri Lankan hospitality with traditional flower garlands, a refreshing king coconut, and a colourful cultural welcome dance before boarding your coach to the beautiful coastal town of Negombo.

After checking into your beachfront hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax and settle in. Take a stroll along the beach, enjoy the hotel facilities, or simply unwind as you prepare for the incredible journey ahead.

*NB there are no activies planned for this day you can arrive at any time. 

Meals Included: None

Accommodation: Jetwing Beach Negombo (or similar)

Travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka's vibrant capital city, and enjoy a panoramic drive through its bustling streets, offering a glimpse of the city's unique blend of colonial heritage and modern development. Visit Number 11, the former home of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, and gain insight into the life and work of one of Asia's most influential designers. Continue to the historic Dutch Hospital Precinct, a beautifully restored colonial landmark that now houses boutique shops and cafés. Enjoy lunch at the stylish Paradise Road Gallery Café, celebrated for its art, architecture, and excellent cuisine. Later, spend time browsing the colourful collections at Barefoot, known for its handwoven textiles, crafts, and distinctive gifts, while also enjoying free time to explore Colombo's local shops and iconic landmarks. This city tour offers a wonderful combination of culture, history, shopping, and contemporary Sri Lankan lifestyle.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Jetwing Beach (or similar)

After breakfast, we'll explore the charming coastal town of Negombo, experiencing a glimpse of local life before travelling inland towards Dambulla, the gateway to Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle.

After checking into our hotel, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at leisure or choose to visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple (optional). This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to beautifully preserved Buddhist murals and more than 150 Buddha statues, making it one of Sri Lanka's most significant cultural and religious landmarks.

Take the evening to unwind and prepare for tomorrow's adventure to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Optional Experiences:

• Dambulla Cave Temple

Accommodation: Jetwing Lake (or similar)

Today is packed with unforgettable experiences as we discover some of Sri Lanka's most iconic attractions. This morning, we'll climb the spectacular Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as the "Lion Rock". Journey past ancient frescoes, impressive gardens and the famous Mirror Wall before being rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. After our climb, enjoy some refreshing fresh-cut tropical fruit before continuing the day's adventure.

Climbing to the summit of the Sigiriya Lion Rock fortress involves approximately 1,200 steps. Even if you dont climb the grounds are still lovely and you can go part way.

The climb combines sturdy ancient stone stairs and steep, narrow metal staircases pinned to the rock face. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the top, depending on your pace.

• Tip: The stairs become much narrower and steeper near the final section—especially after passing the Lion's Paw Terrace.
• Best Time to Go: Start your climb early in the morning (around 7:00 AM) to beat the heat and avoid heavy crowds.

Next, immerse yourself in authentic village life with a memorable local experience. Glide along peaceful waterways on a traditional catamaran, explore the village, learn about traditional Sri Lankan cooking, and savour a delicious homemade lunch prepared using fresh local ingredients.

Later this afternoon, head into Minneriya National Park for an exciting jeep safari in search of majestic Asian elephants, colourful birdlife, deer, monkeys, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat. Return to the hotel this evening after an incredible day of culture, nature, and adventure. *NB seeing wildlife is not guaranteed these are wild animals in their natural habitat and they may not be on paths or close to roads etc. 

Meals Included: Breakfast & Traditional Village Lunch

Accommodation: Jetwing Lake (or similar)

After breakfast, we'll leave Dambulla behind and make our way to the beautiful hill city of Kandy, Sri Lanka's cultural capital and the island's last royal kingdom. Along the way, we'll visit a traditional Spice Garden in Matale, where you'll discover how Sri Lanka's famous spices are grown and learn about their important role in local cuisine and Ayurvedic medicine.

Once we arrive in Kandy, we'll check into our hotel before exploring the city on a fun Tuk Tuk tour, taking in local markets, scenic viewpoints, and some of Kandy's most iconic landmarks.

Later, You will have one of two options

• Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll be presented with a beautiful lotus flower to make your own peaceful offering while experiencing this deeply spiritual place. *NB this can involve very long cueing and waiting times to see a door opened with a small box revealed holding the tooth relic.
• Or, enjoy a colourful Kandyan Cultural Performance, featuring traditional dance, drumming, and fire performances.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Radisson Kandy (or similar)

Today we'll journey into Sri Lanka's breathtaking hill country, travelling through rolling tea plantations and mist-covered mountain landscapes on our way to Nanu Oya. Before boarding the train, enjoy an elegant High Tea at the iconic Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, one of Sri Lanka's most celebrated heritage hotels. * We hope to book a high tea prior to boarding the train.

Then it's time to experience one of the world's most scenic railway journeys as we travel from Nanu Oya to Ella. Sit back, relax, and soak up the spectacular views of lush tea estates, picturesque villages, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain scenery before arriving in the charming hill town of Ella.

Late afternoon take a walk and enjoy dinner at Chill Cafe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: O2 Villa Ella (or similar)

Leave the cool hill country behind as we journey towards Sri Lanka's beautiful southern coastline. Along the way, we'll stop at the picturesque Ravana Falls before continuing to our beachside resort. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the ocean or enjoying the resort's facilities as we settle into the slower pace of coastal life.

Enjoy a visit to Handunugoda Tea Estate is a renowned destination for tea enthusiasts, offering a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the estate's tea fields, learn about the Tea production process, and enjoy tastings of various tea varieties. Conclude your visit with a refreshing cup of pure Ceylon tea accompanied by a freshly baked piece of cake.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Fort House Galle  (or similar)

You have a free day to do as you please. 

Explore the charming streets of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, where you'll have free time to browse boutique shops, discover quaint cafés, and soak up the unique blend of colonial history and coastal charm. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner at the popular Church Street Social one of our favourite local restaruants (guest own expense) 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Fort House (or similar)

Spending a Sunday afternoon at Mount Lavinia Hotel is a relaxing and memorable experience. Guests can enjoy a delicious lunch buffet while listening to live jazz music and taking in the beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. The hotel is also famous for its rich history and was featured in the classic Oscar-winning film The Bridge on the River Kwai, where it was used as a military hospital. This blend of good food, entertainment, and history makes Mount Lavinia Hotel a wonderful place to spend the weekend.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Mount Lavinia Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast in beautiful Sri Lanka before heading to the Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward journey home, taking with you the warmth, beauty, and rich culture of this incredible island. 

Check out time 12pm. you can store your bags until departure time and use the hotel facilites, book a massage or enjoy the pool. Please allow 4 hours before your flight departs to head to the airport. This allows for 1 hour drive time and then early arrival for check in. 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: None – Departure Day

Please note you need to book a flight from Colombo to Delhi. Below is our suggested flight

Meet for breakfast in the hotels cafe at 8.00am.

8.30am Introduction Information Session.

9am Departure

Today we will visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh Temple that feeds over 10,000 people a day, followed by a visit to our local charity – Samadhan for differently abled children. We then head off to The Lotus Temple – a beautiful Baha’i Faith Temple reminiscent of the Sydney Opera House.

Finishing the day with a crazy bicycle rickshaw ride though Chandni Chowk, the oldest part of Delhi, going past the amazing and iconic Red Fort. We will stop along the way for lunch en-route probably to the Lotus Temple. We like to stay flexible given the craziness of the traffic and eat when we are hungry, (and go somewhere where we know we can use the loos ;)) 

7pm – Opening night dinner at a local Punjab Restaurant.

Overnight Delhi

Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation – Blooms Hotel or similar

06:45 – Luggage outside room for collection please.
07:00 – Depart with a packed breakfast for our morning flight.

After breakfast, we leave Delhi behind and make our way towards a truly special experience — the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in the small town of Khempur, where the much-loved film was shot. After landing, it’s about a one-hour drive from the airport before we arrive at this charming heritage property.

13:00 – Arrive and check in at the Marigold Hotel. Lunch will be available at the hotel or nearby (self-pay).

The afternoon is left free for you to enjoy at your own pace — perhaps swimming in the pool, relaxing in the garden, or sampling some of the local village life. For those who’d like to join in, there are optional henna tattoos and sari dress-ups — a fun and colourful way to immerse yourself in Indian culture before dinner.

19:00 – In the evening, we’ll gather for dinner at the hotel, followed by a very special treat — the chance to watch The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in the very place it was filmed. (Because really, no matter how many times you’ve seen it, this one will feel unforgettable!)

Please note: drinks at the Marigold Hotel are cash only.

Overnight: Khempur – Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

All travellers are limited to two items of luggage each; a suitcase with a maximum weight of 18kg and one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 7kg as well as your handbag.

It is essential that your luggage is lockable. Please note that Indian authorities will only allow bottles onto the aircraft if they have been checked in as main baggage. Bottles in hand luggage maybe confiscated.

Domestic airlines within India have recently reviewed their checked luggage limits, as such all airlines have now implemented a maximum checked luggage limit of 18kg. Please keep this in mind when packing for your upcoming trip. Any excess luggage charges incurred will be at the expense of the passenger.

NB* Please make sure when you pass through security that all of your hand luggage has a tag and security stamp including your handbag, otherwise when boarding the plane, you will be asked to return to the scanning section to have your tag stamped.

08:00 – Breakfast at hotel
09:30 – Take a guided walk through the local village of Khempur, a wonderful chance to connect with daily life in rural India.

11:00 – Depart for Udaipur (approx. 90-minute drive).

On arrival, we’ll pause for lunch at Khama Ghani, a lakeside restaurant (self-pay), before checking in to our beautiful heritage accommodation overlooking Lake Pichola.

The afternoon is yours to explore the old city — wander the laneways, perhaps have a palm reading, or get a traditional Kurta custom-made by a local tailor. Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is one of India’s most picturesque cities. Palaces surround the water, the most famous being the Lake Palace, which covers an entire island and was famously featured in the James Bond film Octopussy. Founded in 1559 as the capital of the Mewar kingdom, Udaipur is a city that is as relaxing as it is romantic.

17:30 – Depart the hotel for Bagore-ki-Haveli, near Gangaur Ghat in the heart of the old city, to enjoy a vibrant one-hour local dance performance.

20:00 – Dinner at Jagat Niwas (self-pay), a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views across Lake Pichola and the City Palace.

Overnight: Udaipur – Kankarwa Haveli or similar
Meals: Breakfast

08:00 – Begin the day with a rooftop breakfast at the hotel, taking in the sweeping views over Lake Pichola — a peaceful way to start your morning in the City of Lakes.

09:00 – Explore Udaipur with a guided visit to a local Hindu Temple (please remember no shoes and bring a scarf), followed by a tour of the magnificent City Palace, with its opulent rooms and fascinating glimpses into royal life.

Late morning, we’ll take a boat cruise on Lake Pichola to Jagmandir Island, where we’ll pause for a relaxed lunch (self-pay).

The afternoon is free to enjoy at your leisure — explore the charming laneways, shop for treasures, or pick up items you may have had tailored the day before.

19:00 – In the evening, we’ll gather again for dinner at Ambrai or Upre (self-pay), both beloved lakeside restaurants with stunning views across the water and palace lights.

Overnight: Udaipur – Kankarwa Haveli or similar
Meals: Breakfast

05:15 – Depart for the station with a packed breakfast.
07:40 – Board the train for a scenic journey to Jaipur (approx. 8 hours). Please pack light, as you’ll need to manage your own bag on and off the train and stow it securely.

13:00 – Arrive and check in at our hotel. Enjoy a snack at the hotel (self-pay) relax on your first afternoon in the Pink City.

19:00 – Dinner at the hotel or at a local restaurant (self-pay).

Overnight: Jaipur – Umaid Haveli or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast

08:00 – Breakfast at hotel
09:00 – Depart for a day of sightseeing in Jaipur.

Our morning begins with a guided visit to the magnificent Amber Fort, perched high on a hill and built in 1592. Its mirrored rooms, intricate carvings, and sweeping views will leave you speechless.

Late morning, we’ll continue to explore Jaipur’s rich artistic heritage with visits to a block printing and carpet factory and a gemstone & jewellery workshop, where traditional skills have been passed down through generations.

Lunch – Enjoy a meal near the City Palace (self-pay).

In the evening, relax over a traditional Rajasthani dinner — the perfect way to end this spectacular day.

Overnight: Jaipur – Umaid Haveli or Similar

Jaipur –City Palace and Bazaars

After Breakfast:

Begin your day with a fascinating exploration of Jaipur’s iconic City Palace, a magnificent blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture that offers a glimpse into the city’s royal heritage. Wander through its elegant courtyards, museums, and beautifully decorated gateways while learning about the legacy of Jaipur’s rulers. After soaking in the grandeur of the palace, head to the city’s vibrant bazaars, where colorful streets are lined with traditional handicrafts, sparkling jewelry, textiles, and local souvenirs. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you browse the bustling markets, interact with local artisans, and experience the rich culture and craftsmanship that make Jaipur a shopper’s paradise.

Meals – Breakfast

Accommodation – Umaid Haveli or similar  

After breakfast, we depart Jaipur and travel by road to Agra, a longer journey of approximately 7 hours. The drive will be broken up with regular comfort stops along the way to stretch our legs and relax.

Upon your arrival at the magnificent Castle Kanota (about 1 hour from Jaipur), a 19th-century heritage hotel near Jaipur, immerse yourself in history with a look through the General Amar Singh Kanota Library & Museum. This exceptional museum, curated by the family and showcasing the life of the current Raj’s ancestor, offers a glimpse into royal life through rare books, paintings, and arms.

Then enjoy tea on the lawn before continuing on yrou journey to Agra. 

Following this, indulge in a delicious, authentic lunch—featuring traditional ‘thikana’ recipes—within the castle’s charming, fortified surroundings. Spend your afternoon leisurely wandering through the lush, 8-acre gardens or relaxing by the swimming pool, savoring the quiet serenity of this exquisite regal oasis.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Clarks Shiraz Hotel, Agra (or similar)

We rise early this morning for a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, India’s most photographed and iconic monument — and once you see it glowing in the soft morning light, you’ll understand why. Built between 1632 and 1653 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, the Taj Mahal is one of the world’s great architectural masterpieces.

After our visit, we return to the hotel for breakfast, followed by a stop at a marble workshop, where beautiful inlaid pieces are crafted by the descendants of the original artisans who worked on the Taj Mahal.

We then begin the approximately 5‑hour drive back to Delhi, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. Tonight we stay near Delhi Airport, chosen for comfort and ease after a full day of sightseeing and travel.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lalit Delhi (or similar)
(Approximately 10 km from the airport / 20‑minute drive)

Departure Day

Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast at the hotel before check‑out at 12:00 pm. Your airport transfer will be arranged in advance, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.

Please note that Hosts/Organisers will not be available after 12:00 pm. If you are departing later in the day, we recommend planning how you would like to spend this time before your transfer.

Meals: Breakfast