Example Itinerary

The Ultimate Indian Ocean Adventure: India, Sri Lanka and Maldives

Duration
26 days / 25 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Romance
Destinations
India, Maldives, Sri Lanka

Embark on a 26-day-long tour that is sure to leave you with enough incredible memories to last a lifetime. Start your journey in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, India and explore urban life in a world removed. Explore the countryside of Sri Lanka on a walking tour of the tea plantations. Appreciate the natural wonders of Southern Asia on multiple safari treks. And spend the last days of your adventurous tour unwinding in the stunning and tranquil Maldives. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Kerala Backwaters: One of south India's most beautiful gems is this palm-fringed network of criss-crossing waterways, rivers, lakes, and mangroves. Cruise past lush paddy fields and coconut groves on a private traditional wooden boat.
  • Galle: This ancient port located at the very south of the teardrop-shaped island is a UNESCO-designated world heritage site as the best existing example of a Portuguese fortified city in South Asia. Even before then, it has been a prominent seaport for centuries with Persians, Arabs, Greeks, Romans, Indians, and Chinese doing business at its port.
  • Dream Beach: A sun & sea destination away from the rest of the world, just the word 'Maldives' conjures images of overwater bungalows, pristine water, and perfect soft sand. Cap off your adventure with blissful days indulging in doing absolutely nothing in paradise.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Map

Mumbai

Touch down in Mumbai, India’s most affluent locale. Your driver will be waiting to take you to your luxury hotel. Check in, rest and feel refreshed. The rest of the day is yours to explore your surroundings and relax before the busy days ahead.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located next to the Gate of India on the harbourside, this hotel provides guests with direct city access and water views.

History: This beautiful old building was completed at the turn of the 20th century and has housed dignitaries, royalty and VIPs for more than a hundred years.

Service: This iconic establishment has a long history of excellent service, with personal butlers assigned to guests for round-the-clock care.

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Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: This spectacular hotel is located on the exclusive Marine Drive, with stunning panoramas of the ocean and the glimmering shoreline.

History: Channeling high-end glamor and elegance, the hotel opened its adorned doors for guests in 2004.

Service: To provide the ultimate in customer service, the hotel offers a 24-hour spa, butler service, a concierge, travel desk and a business center.

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The Oberoi Mumbai Preferred Hotel

Day 2

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Mumbai

Today your private guide will take you on a whirlwind tour of bustling, vibrant Mumbai. Starting with the Prince of Wales Museum and a look to India’s fascinating past. Next up, Victoria station, the historic railway station is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finish off the tour with a visit to the markets of Malabar Hill. Take in the colors and chaos of the space with its many foreign sights, scents and sounds. Enjoy dinner at one of your hotels on-site fine dining restaurants.

Mumbai
Mumbai

Day 3

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Cochin

Wake at your leisure and enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Today you will transfer to Cochin. Check in  and spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring the hotel and surrounding sights.

Hotel Options
About

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Situated on the manmade Willingdon Island, the Vivanta by Taj Malabar provides remarkable views of historic, picturesque Cochin harbor. Each room offers a LCD television, custom, stylish décor, surround-sound systems, massage showerheads, and work desks and chairs.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 4

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Cochin

Today you will explore Cochin Bay, and take the Colonial Cochin Tour. The winding, narrow streets of this southern city will transport you back in time. Take in the charming blend of colonial architecture and native aesthetics as they meet in a beautiful fusion of culture.

Day 5

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Kumarakom

Rise and shine early this morning, before visiting Cochin’s famous Jew Town, Paradesi Synagogue, and the beautiful Dutch Palace before packing up and transferring to Kumarakom. Check in at the luxury Kumarakom Lake Resort.

Hotel Options
About

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Kumarakom
Kumarakom

Day 6

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Kumarakom

Kumarakom is home to a rich ecosystem of mangrove forests, paddy fields, coconut groves and a plethora of exotic bird species. Take a boat through the backwaters and visit the Bird Sanctuary. Round off the day with a sunset cruise.

Day 7

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Chennai

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Chennai. Check in to the Leela or Park Hyatt hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Hotel Options
About

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

For luxury, elegance, and a panoramic view of the Bay of Bengal, look no further than the Leela Palace Chennai, a five-star hotel in Chennai, India. Its design and architecture inspired by the Chettinad Dynasty, the hotel exudes a classic regal opulence, from the Royal Entrance through the Lobby Promenade, following along to the Grand Staircase, all the way to the Royal Ballroom.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

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Chennai

Today you will visit the country’s most impressive artesian commune, the Cholamandal Artists’ Village. Next, learn of the region’s social-political landscape with a visit to the Government Museum. Last stop on today’s tour is the city’s oldest railway station, the Southern Railway Terminus. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel.

Chennai
Chennai

Day 9

Map

Bangalore

Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast before your departure to Bangalore, India’s third-largest city. Check in to your suite. Rest, refresh and relax for the rest of the day.

Hotel Options
About

For a glimpse of life as royalty, stay at the grand, palatial fortress that is the Leela. Set within nine acres of landscaped, manicured gardens punctuated with stone sculptures, lotus lily ponds, and waterfalls, each of the Leela’s 357 rooms feature broadband internet and wi-fi, a mini bar, in-room safe, satellite television, and plush beds.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 10

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Colombo

You will spend the first half of the day exploring Bangalore, the country’s tech hub. Visit Lal Bagh botanical gardens, home to India’s most extensive collection of tropical plants. Next see the Dodda Basavana Gudi, or Bull Temple and the Bangalore Palace. Depart for Colombo and check in for the evening.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: The Tintagel is located in the middle of the city, surrounded by upmarket residences and shops. It’s approximately a 45-minute drive away from the airport and five minutes’ walk from Odel Shopping Mall, the most desirable shopping location in the area.

History: Colombo was one of the most popular East-West trade routes in centuries past. The Tintagel, a colonial mansion that takes one back in time, echoes such history.

Service: The Tintagel is widely-known for its unbeatable, bespoke service, and its friendly, warm staff.

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Tintagel Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

History: Since the late 19th century, this elegant townhouse has welcomed dignitaries, governors and nobility from all over the world.

Location: Set on leafy Park Street in central Colombo, Uga Residence is an urban oasis.

Service: With years of experience, the hotel’s team is on hand to advise on city excursions, onward travel and anything else that’s required.

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Uga Residence Preferred Hotel

Day 11

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Colombo

Start your day off with a spiritually-inspiring visit to the Gangaramaya Temple. Continue on to the Seema Malakaya Temple, a temple in the middle of a lake only reachable by a small bridge. Take a tour of the National Museum and stop at the historic military fort. As the sun begins to set, head for the local markets and shop for some traditional trinkets or try some of the local foods.

Colombo
Colombo

Day 12

Map

Sigiriya

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for Sigiriya, a four-hour drive away. Check in to your hotel and freshen up before climbing up Sigiriya Rock Fortress. At the top, witness the ruins of this once great fortress and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding plains. 

Hotel Options
About

Nestled amongst reed beds and paddy fields on top of a man-made lake lies Jetwing Vil Uyana, a premier luxury eco resort in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka. Hailed by Harper's Bazaar as the "best eco luxury hotel in Sri Lanka," this one-of-a-kind resort comprises 36 dwellings that merge sophisticated modern comforts with ecological rural simplicity.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Located just six kilometers away from the historic Sigiriya Rock, Water Garden Sigiriya resort provides visitors to Sri Lanka with world-class comfort and second to none service. With one and two bedroom options, the resort's 30 villas are chicly designed, spacious, and imbued with an air of mystique thanks to their secret gardens and private plunge pools.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 13

Map

Sigiriya

This morning, visit Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This complex of caves was carved over several centuries, dating back to the 1st century BCE. In the afternoon, go on an elephant safari at Minneriya Park where you can observe wild elephants and other protected wildlife in their natural environment. If you arrive in autumn during the dry season, you may be able to witness the spectacular 'elephant gathering' when hundreds of wild elephants head to this watering hole. 

Day 14

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Kandy

Take a half-day trip to the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa, yet another UNESCO site of the beautiful region. An afternoon departure will bring you to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Check into your hotel and relax poolside or explore your surroundings and get a good night’s rest.

Hotel Options
About

Located in the centre of Kandy, just a short drive from the railway station and the famous Temple of the Tooth, Earl's Regency Hotel is a luxurious property with splendid views of the mountains around Kandy. All its rooms are air-conditioned and come with a minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities and a TV with satellite channels.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

This historic dwelling was once the ancestral home of a Kandyan family and was restored to its former splendor in 2005 by Channa Daswatte, Geoffrey Bawa’s protege. The two-story main house is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens, which have avocado, jackwood, papaya, Sri Lankan orange and Kithul trees - the perfect setting for afternoon tea complete with Kandy House’s desserts made with treacle from Kithul blossoms.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Tucked away in green in the heart of the city, Kings Pavilion offers an urban retreat in a prime Kandy location. Guest rooms are decorated in a cozy and modern style, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light and balconies with mountain views.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Kandy
Kandy

Day 15

Map

Bogawantalawa Valley

This morning you’ll explore the city of Kandy, tour the Bahirawakanda Monastery and experience life through the eyes of a Sri Lankan monk. Visit the Temple of the Tooth and be amazed by its adornment in tiny white lights. Then transfer to Ceylon Tea Trails hotel in the central highlands, where each room and suite comes with a personal butler. Have your personal butler draw you a bath and relax.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: This hotel enjoys a stunning and unique location, nestled high in the hills of Sri Lanka’s Ceylon Tea region, bordering the World Heritage Central Highlands.

Service: Each room and suite comes with a personal butler, who serves guests Bed Tea in the morning and draws them a bath.

History: The world’s first-ever tea bungalow resort, this hotel celebrates the historic tea plants of Ceylon, first discovered over a century ago.

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Ceylon Tea Trails Preferred Hotel

Day 16

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Bogawantalawa Valley

The region is known for its tea and sprawling estates - today you will take the Ceylon Tea Trail working plantation hike. Feel refreshed after a tea tasting at the plantations. Return to your suite and enjoy the exclusive royal treatment offered by your hotel.

Day 17

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Galle

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a half-day trek up Adam’s Peak, a sacred space of worship for centuries. Next, on to the stunning coastal city of Galle, where you will check into the Amangalla hotel. Enjoy the five-star treatment you will receive at this historic hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Heritage: The hotel is housed in a well-preserved 150-year old landmark hotel.

Rooms: Generous rooms with antique furniture, teak timber flooring, original art work and pleasant views.

Society and Environment: Amangalla uses recycling methods and tries to sources as much as possible locally, including food, furnishings and staff.

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Amangalla Preferred Hotel
Galle
Galle

Day 18

Map

Galle

Begin the day with a spectacular experience – take a whale watching tour! Next check out the Ancient Port of Galle, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Round off the day of incredible sights with a visit to the Yatagala and Rhumasala temples.

Day 19

Map

Tangalle

After breakfast depart for Tangalle. Here you will experience the unique opportunity to view baby sea turtles hatching on a remote, isolated beach. Check in to the Amanwella resort before taking a local cooking class and learning some of the secrets of the delicious Sri Lankan dishes.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: This Aman Resorts property is located right on a tranquil crescent beach in the middle of a coconut grove.

History: Designed by one of Sri Lanka’s most important architects, Geoffrey Bawa, this property combines modern comfort with traditional local materials.

Service: With only 30 suites, guests are treated to personalized round-the-clock service and top-notch Sri Lankan hospitality.

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Amanwella Preferred Hotel

Day 20

Map

Tangalle

Today visit the impressive Mulkirigala Rock temple, standing 676-feet tall. This unique temple is unlike any other in the world. Make your way through the winding cave temples of Mulkirigala. Enjoy a relaxing evening at the luxury hotel.

Tangalle
Tangalle

Day 21

Map

Tangalle

Today embark on an exciting safari through Yala National Park on a full day tour. This wildlife sanctuary is home to a rich array of aquatic bird species, tropical plants and many natural wonders. Return to your hotel for a good night’s rest.

Day 22

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Maldives

Today depart for the final destination on the tour, the stunning Maldives. It’s time to unwind. Fly in to the capital of Male, then hop on a speedboat or seaplane onward to your luxury resort of choice.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Sun: Arguably the main reason a person goes to the Maldives is to enjoy the abundant sunshine, and Huvafen Fushi has kept this in mind, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the glowing ball of fire above, whether from a lounge chair or plunge pool.

Dining: Despite being on a private island seemingly cut off from the rest of the world, there are still a surprising number of dining options that range from five-course gourmet meals to classic Italian pizza.

Comfort: From private plunge pools and dips in the ocean to sun-soaked decks in the world-class spa, there is no shortage of ways to please your inner hedonist

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Huvafen Fushi Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

History: The Maldives has barely changed since ancient mariners first moored off its coral-fringed shores. Guests can island-hop to a nearby atoll where fishing villages continue as they have for hundreds of years.

Location: Reethi Rah is part of the North Male atoll, around 1 hour by speedboat from the airport.

Service: Enjoy superlative hospitality at the Reethi Rah, with personalized pick-up from the airport and round the clock service from a Villa Host.

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One&Only Reethi Rah Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Just 25 minutes from Malé airport by speedboat, Velassaru is a secluded Maldivian getaway in the midst of the Indian Ocean.

Services: Staff are on-hand to cater to every whim, from the culinary to the adventurous, with sumptuous dining and exciting excursions.

History: The last word in elegance and luxury, Velassaru is renowned for regularly luring guests back again and again.

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Velassaru Preferred Hotel

Day 23

Map

Maldives

Start your day with a relaxing and invigorating yoga session on the soft beach sand. After breakfast, you’ll take an unforgettable sea plane flight through the Maldives, giving you an epic view of the country’s stunning scenery. In the afternoon, you may enjoy some leisure time on the beach. Toast the sunset aboard a Dolphin Cruise, and enjoy a tasty beachside dinner.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Sun: Arguably the main reason a person goes to the Maldives is to enjoy the abundant sunshine, and Huvafen Fushi has kept this in mind, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the glowing ball of fire above, whether from a lounge chair or plunge pool.

Dining: Despite being on a private island seemingly cut off from the rest of the world, there are still a surprising number of dining options that range from five-course gourmet meals to classic Italian pizza.

Comfort: From private plunge pools and dips in the ocean to sun-soaked decks in the world-class spa, there is no shortage of ways to please your inner hedonist

Read More
Huvafen Fushi Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

History: The Maldives has barely changed since ancient mariners first moored off its coral-fringed shores. Guests can island-hop to a nearby atoll where fishing villages continue as they have for hundreds of years.

Location: Reethi Rah is part of the North Male atoll, around 1 hour by speedboat from the airport.

Service: Enjoy superlative hospitality at the Reethi Rah, with personalized pick-up from the airport and round the clock service from a Villa Host.

Read More
One&Only Reethi Rah Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Just 25 minutes from Malé airport by speedboat, Velassaru is a secluded Maldivian getaway in the midst of the Indian Ocean.

Services: Staff are on-hand to cater to every whim, from the culinary to the adventurous, with sumptuous dining and exciting excursions.

History: The last word in elegance and luxury, Velassaru is renowned for regularly luring guests back again and again.

Read More
Velassaru Preferred Hotel
Resorts By Speedboat
Resorts By Speedboat

Day 24

Map

Maldives

A leisurely beach morning can be broken up with snorkel sessions through the vibrant reefs that line the shores of Kaafu Atoll. Later on, give parasailing a try, and enjoy yet another bird’s-eye view of the exquisite beaches that surround you. In the afternoon, you’ll unlock the secrets behind Maldivian cooking. Relax afterwards with an indulgent spa treatment, to help you wind down for the evening.

Day 25

Map

Maldives

Keep your zen vibe going with some early morning Tai Chi. Mid-morning, you’ll learn all about the pink corals that add such color to the surrounding crystal waters from a resident marine biologist. You’ll even get to replenish the coral population by planting some yourself! Laze the afternoon away on the beach. Return home to freshen up ahead of a romantic private beach dinner tonight.

Day 26

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Departure

Say goodbye to the Maldives today, as you’re whisked away by speedboat to Male, where you’ll be assisted with check in for your international departure flight for your onward travels.

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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