In Search of Tigers and Leopards

Combine India and Sri Lanka on a premium 21-day journey from Delhi to Negombo. Search for Bengal tigers and Sri Lankan leopards, explore Old Delhi on a rickshaw and take an enchanting train ride through Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill country.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Arrive in Delhi, the vibrant capital city of India, which seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Perhaps explore the local area and take in the kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and flavours on offer as well as nearby ruins of a 14th-century Tughlaq fortress. Tonight, get to know your Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort and fellow travellers during a Welcome Dinner.

Day 2: Delhi

Today you will explore Old and New Delhi, India’s vibrant metropolis blends medieval, colonial, and modern architecture. Visit Jama Masjid, a 17th-century mosque, India’s largest, before setting out on a rickshaw ride. Continue to New Delhi, designed by architect Edward Lutyens regarded as a testament to Britain’s imperial aspirations, to visit Humayun’s Tomb. Thought to have inspired the magnificent Taj Mahal, the World Heritage-listed tomb perfectly combines elements of Persian and Mughal architecture in its design. Explore wide leafy avenues. Later, visit the Gandhi Smriti Museum and learn about Mahatma Gandhi. This museum, dedicated to his life, is where he spent his final 144 days before being shot in 1948. 

Inside Experience — Rickshaw Ride 

Take a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Old Delhi’s lively Chandni Chowk bazaar. Embrace the energetic ambience and immerse yourself in local life.

Day 3: Delhi, Agra

Set off this morning to the station where you will board the Gatimaan Express, travelling from Delhi to Agra, a journey that takes just over an hour and a half, on India's first semi high-speed train and the fastest train in India. Enjoy simple Indian snacks as you relax in fully air-conditioned carriages and enjoy the passing scenery. Once in Agra, embark on your Insider Experience and later a sightseeing tour of the World Heritage-listed Agra Fort. One of the city’s most historic sites, the fort has served as both a military point and a royal residence in the past. 

Insider Experience – Visit the Taj Mahal

Be in awe at the beauty of the iconic Taj Mahal, the white marble mausoleum inlaid with semi-precious stones. Commissioned in 1631 by the fifth Mughal emperor to house the tomb of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the mausoleum houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself. The structure took over 22 years to build and is a wonder to behold. Its awe-inspiring, glittering white marble domes almost seem to change colours throughout the day depending on the position of the sun. 

Day 4: Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Bharatpur, Ranthambore National Park

Transfer from Agra to Ranthambore National Park, stopping en route at the abandoned ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, a World Heritage Site for a guided tour. This town to the west of Agra was once known as the City of Victory. Built in the 16th century, Fatehpur Sikri is home to several impressive monuments and temples. Remarkably, this deserted city remains almost exactly as it was more than 400 years ago, providing an insight into the opulent lifestyle of the Mughal Empire. Enjoy lunch at Laxmi Vilas Palace in Bharatpur before boarding the Shatabdi Express train for the last leg of your trip to Ranthambore National Park. Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages as you travel in air-conditioned comfort, taking in the scenery. Tonight, savour dinner at your hotel. 

Inside Experience — Lunch of Rajasthani Cuisine

Dine on a lunch of traditional Rajasthani cuisine in regal surroundings at the Royal Residence of the former Jat rulers of Bharatpur.

Day 5: Ranthambore National Park

Today, search for the elusive Bengal tiger on guided morning and afternoon game drives through Ranthambore National Park. Ranthambore is also home to many more unique animals including leopards, sloth bears and striped hyenas. Enjoy an evening talk by a local naturalist about the park and its diverse wildlife.

Insider Experience - In search of the Bengal tiger

With an expert guide, go in search of the Bengal tiger. Ranthambore is one of the best parks to view this elusive cat, so make sure to have your camera at the ready.

Day 6: Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur

Spend the morning at your leisure. After lunch, depart by coach to the picturesque and historic city of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. The bustling modern city is one of the three corners of the golden triangle that includes Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. In 1876 the local ruler decided to paint the city in shades of pink in anticipation of a visit from the Prince of Wales. The prince (who later became King Edward VIII) named Jaipur the ‘Pink City.’ After a declaration by the Queen of Jaipur that she too had a fondness of this colour, a law was passed that all future buildings were to be pink.

Day 7: Jaipur

Today spend the day on your Insider Experiences. Drink in the striking architecture blending Hindu and Islamic styles and visit such incredible sites including the City Place, and the World Heritage – listed 18th-century Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory. Drive by Jaipur’s most distinctive landmark, the Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of the Winds. Completed in 1799, it's one of India's most recognizable buildings.

Insider Experience - Explore the Pink City of Jaipur

Explore the Pink City of Jaipur, discover why its beautiful buildings are coloured in this distinctive hue and explore Amber Fort, learning about its fascinating history and uncover many of the rooms elaborately painted with decadent mirrors and precious stones.

Day 8: Jaipur, Mumbai

Transfer to the airport for your included flight to Mumbai, set on India’s west coast beside the Arabian Sea. This vibrant and bustling city on the western coast of India is famous for its fast-paced lifestyle, iconic architecture, thriving Bollywood industry and diverse culinary delights. Taste some of these delicious flavours at a cooking demonstration held at your hotel.

Day 9: Mumbai

Rise early for your Insider Experience. Return to your hotel for breakfast and spend the rest of the morning at your leisure before taking an afternoon sightseeing tour of Mumbai icons including the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal, a 19th-century World Heritage listed railway station and admire the colours of Mahalaxmi Dhobhi Ghat, the world’s largest open-air laundry. Enjoy a delicious Farewell Dinner at your hotel.

Insider Experience - Discover Mumbai

Discover Mumbai by foot as the city comes to life in the sun’s early rays on a dawn walking tour. Visit the fishing docks of Colaba, see the colonial architecture of DN Road, experience the bustling environment of Crawford Market, and explore the fascinating neighbourhoods.

Day 10: Mumbai, India to Negombo, Sri Lanka

After breakfast, say goodbye to your Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort and transfer to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for your included flight to Colombo, Sri Lanka. On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Afterwards, enjoy your Insider Experiences at the hotel. 

Insider Experience - Sri Lankan Welcome Dinner

Savour a Sri Lankan Welcome Dinner hosted by the head chef who will explain the use of herbs and spices in the local cuisine.

Day 11: Negombo, Habarana

Early risers may want to visit the fish market to watch the boats returning with their catch and the vendors bargaining for the best selection (additional cost). After breakfast, travel to Dambulla where you will have some time at leisure. Later, venture to the World Heritage-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. Home to over 150 incredible Buddha paintings and statues, Dambulla is the largest and most well-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. Explore the five sanctuaries, each containing ornate statues and ancient art relating to the life of Buddha. Tonight, enjoy your Insider Experience before a delicious dinner at the hotel.

Insider Experience - Dance performance at the Habarana Cultural Center

Be entertained by a dance performance at the Habarana Cultural Center. Watch as the dancers showcase a selection of different styles of regional dance forms.

Enhance Your Journey – Negombo Fish Market

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the largest open-air dry fish market in Sri Lanka. On your guided tour, witness boats and catamarans arrive as fishermen return with their catch of the day. Watch as merchants negotiate prices with the locals.

Day 12: Habarana, Polonnaruwa

Following breakfast, head to the World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa for a tour of its ancient city. Once a prosperous religious centre, it was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993 AD. Explore the fascinating ruins and discover a world of archaeological treasures. Have your Insider Experience and dine on a traditional farmer's lunch before returning to the hotel. This afternoon, you may wish to embark on a safari to see the herds of elephants in Minneriya National Park (additional expense).

Insider Experience - Meet local villagers

A fascinating cultural experience awaits you today. Meet local villagers for a herbal drink experience and be intrigued by the process of using traditional ingredients in making energy boosting herbal drinks.

Enhance Your Journey – Minneriya National Park Safari

Embark on a safari to discover Minneriya National Park, situated in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. Discover the park’s breathtaking scenery and spectacular array of wildlife. See the majestic Asian elephants for which the park is famous, as well as a variety of birds, butterflies, reptiles and amphibians. Built by an ancient civilisation, the Minneriya tank is an impressive human-made water reservoir and a highlight of the park. 

Day 13: Habarana, Kandy

Set off early for your Insider Experience. Rising 200 metres above the central plains, this spectacular geological formation was once home to an ancient civilisation. If you’re feeling active, climb the open staircases to the top of Sigiriya and take in the impressive views at its summit. Alternatively, visit the Sigiriya Museum. Enjoy breakfast back at the hotel before departing for Kandy. Tonight, enjoy an included international buffet dinner at the hotel’s main restaurant.

Insider Experience – Sunrise at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress 

Watch the sunrise from the top of spectacular Sigiriya, the World Heritage-listed rock fortress, which was built by King Kashyapa I in the fifth century and served as a royal citadel for more than 18 years.

Day 14: Kandy

This morning, you may like to choose to embark on an excursion (at an additional cost). This afternoon, take part in a walking tour of the city of Kandy with its iconic monuments, bustling marketplace, and vibrant shopping opportunities. Tonight, enjoy your Insider Experience. 

Insider Experience – Puja at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic 

Witness the evening puja at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, conducted by the resident monks and accompanied by the sounds of drums and burning incense.  

Enhance Your Journey – Explore the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens 

Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, spread over 147 acres in the heart of Kandy and bordered by the Mahaweli River. Stroll through the gardens and admire a lush oasis showcasing a diverse collection of over 4,000 species of plants including giant bamboo, orchids and exotic trees. 

Enhance Your Journey – Sri Lankan Cooking Demonstration 

Join a cooking demonstration in Kandy, where the secrets of crafting a traditional Sri Lankan family meal will be unveiled by a local Kandyan family. The meal will be carefully prepared with authentic, local ingredients. Afterwards, savour an included lunch of traditional flavours. 

Day 15: Kandy, Nuwara Eliya

This morning, journey onwards to the lush, green hills of Nuwara Eliya. En route, visit one of the many famous tea estates for your Insider Experience. Your lunch is another Insider Experience. This afternoon, take in a guided tour of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as 'Little England' as it was favoured by the British civil servants as a summer retreat and is home to several colonial buildings. Admire stunning waterfalls, vast tea terraces and expansive vegetable fields along the way.

Insider Experience – Tea Plantation Visit and Tasting 

Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about the traditions and processes involved in the production of tea. Then try out your newfound knowledge with a special tea tasting, sampling a selection of the finest Ceylon tea.  

Insider Experience – High Tea at The Grand Hotel 

Indulge in a high tea lunch at The Grand Hotel, a timeless property nestled amid lush surrounds, savouring culinary delights including artisanal pastries and the region’s famous teas.

Day 16: Nuwara Eliya

Today, embark on your Insider Experience. Afterwards, journey to Ella for lunch. Return to Nuwara Eliya, stopping en route to visit to Nazareth Chapel of the Good Shepherd Convent in Bandarawela, commissioned in 1961 by the nuns of the Good Shepherd.  

Insider Experience – Scenic Train Ride through Hill Country 

Take an enchanting train ride through the picturesque Hill Country. The journey from Nanu Oya to Demodara is considered one of the most scenic railway journeys in Sri Lanka. Sit back and enjoy stunning highland vistas of emerald tea plantations and lush landscapes as the unmistakable aroma of pure Ceylon tea fills the air. 

Day 17: Nuwara Eliya, Yala National Park

Journey from Nuwara Eliya to Yala National Park. Enjoy lunch on arrival then board a jeep and venture out on an afternoon safari in one of the country’s oldest and largest national parks. The park is home to over 32 species of mammals including elephants and sloth bears. Its star attraction, however, is the spectacular Sri Lankan leopard. Tonight, enjoy your Insider Experience.

Insider Experience - Listen to a Resort Naturalist

Spend time with the Resort Naturalist, who will share his knowledge and experience in tracking the abundant wildlife found across the National Park.

Day 18: Yala National Park, Galle

This morning, you may choose to Enhance Your Journey with an optional morning Yala game drive safari Afterwards, journey to Udawalawa then embark on your Insider Experience. This afternoon transfer to Galle and check into your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Insider Experience - Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, and learn how the displaced baby elephants are cared for and rehabilitated with the ultimate hope of re-introducing them back into the wild, as soon as they are fit enough to fend for themselves. Watch the elephant calves being fed with rich nutrient milk formula.

Enhance Your Journey - Yala Morning Safari

Prepare for an enchanting morning safari adventure through the mesmerizing Yala National Park, where the possibilities are endless and your chances of encountering the elusive and majestic leopard are doubled.

Day 19: Galle

This morning explore the Dutch Fort of Galle on foot, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with its atmospheric paved streets and colonial heritage. Visit the Maritime Museum, see the lighthouse and the crumbling bastions along the way. This afternoon, you may choose to partake in a mask carving and painting experience at the hotel or a cooking demonstration in Galle (both at additional expense).

Enhance Your Journey – Mask Carving and Painting Experience 

Delve into the rich cultural tradition of mask painting. Unleash your creativity as you create your own mask, guided by a local artisan who shares their skill and techniques passed down through generations. Traditionally used in festivals and cultural dances, the masks are intended to ward off evil and are typically painted in bright colours. 

Enhance Your Journey – Cuisine Experience  

Embark on a culinary journey as you delve into the essence of Sri Lankan cuisine. Learn about the unique flavours and ingredients used in local dishes. Tantalise your tastebuds as you sample an array of traditional dishes typical to the region and Sri Lanka. 

Day 20: Galle, Colombo

After breakfast, depart for the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo. Take a tuk tuk tour of the city and see many of its sights including the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, the Pettah bazaar area, the Wolfendhal Dutch Church, and the Old Parliament complex. Head back to your hotel and relax before your Insider Experience tonight.

Insider Experience - Special Farewell Dinner

Savour a special Farewell Dinner, a final Sri Lankan feast at the highly acclaimed Dining Room inside the hotel on a menu specially designed for you.

Day 21: Depart Colombo

Your holiday comes to an end this morning with a transfer to the Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight.