Deluxe Stateroom
10% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
Treasures of India
Mumbai (ex Bombay) - Colombo
Dates:
3/13/2025
to
3/24/2025
days
nights on board
With featured guest Anne Cullerre, Vice-Admiral of the French Navy.
Oriental fragrances, scents of spice, lush green landscapes, age-old stories: PONANT invites you on a journey to discover a mosaic of peoples and cultures. Sri Lanka and India welcome you on a 12-day cruise aboard Le Jacques-Cartier, between charming towns and surprising nature. Let yourself fall under the spell of these eastern lands bordered by the Indian Ocean and influenced by Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, visit the Goa Chitra Ethnographic Museum and the Figueiredo Mansion from your port of call in Goa, explore the marvellous Sigiriya site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from Trincomalee, or appreciate the charms of Galle as you spend time discovering the city. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
Your journey starts with the discovery of flamboyant Mumbai. The capital of Bollywood films, the most populated city in India - nicknamed of ‘Maximum City’ - conjures up many descriptions and will offer you a unique experience to complete your cruise.
Your first port of call will take you to Goa. This former colony of the Portuguese Indies is prized for its long beaches and its rich cultural heritage, in particular a collection of late 16th-century churches and convents, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
You will sail down the Malabar Coast to arrive in cosmopolitan Kochi. Constructed on a lagoon on the Arabian Sea, between islands and a peninsula, this royal city has kept its yesteryear charm. Set off aboard traditional boats to discover the surrounding fishing villages located in the ‘backwaters’, a network of lakes and canals criss-crossing the region’s dense vegetation.
Le Lapérouse will set sail for Galle, recognisable by the 16th-century fortifications that encircle the town. The successive Portuguese, Dutch and British colonisations left this city with unique architecture, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a heritage shaped by multiple influences.
A little further, Hambantota is the gateway towards the luxuriant heart of the country. On an excursion into the Yala National Park, you will witness Sri Lanka’s abundant wildlife: leopards, elephants, sloth bears, monkeys and almost 200 bird species inhabit this must-see site.
From Trincomalee, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of historic city of Polonnaruwa, a fortified city from the 11th century, and the splendid golden Temple of Dambulla.
Your journey will come to an end in the bubbling Sri Lankan capital Colombo that will plunge you into the distinctive atmosphere of the country once known as Ceylon. Renowned for its spices, such as cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, it is a trading location, a crossroads port between Asia and Europe.
Ref : ER130325
Your itinerary
A cruise discovering Sri Lanka and India, a mosaic of peoples and cultures amidst luxuriant landscapes. Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Our guest of honour
Anne Cullerre
"Beyond the pure pleasure of a Ponant cruise, I invite you to discover and understand the significant maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean, and specifically those of India and Sri Lanka. As someone familiar with the region, I will share my expertise and experiences I've had in this captivating area, which is defined by both its opportunities and the threats it faces."
Find out moreChoose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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11/5/2025 to the 11/23/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
12/3/2025 to the 12/13/2025
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Anne Cullerre
The first female Vice-Admiral of the French Navy, Anne Cullerre, spent about a decade aboard various combat vessels and scientific military ships, holding several commanding positions both at sea and on land. She served in mainland France, overseas territories, and abroad. A graduate of the French War College, she is well-versed in international relations and joint operations. She held positions of very high responsibility in the field of air and naval operations, such as Deputy Chief of Operations of the French Navy. Her expertise covers maritime security issues in the Indo-Pacific region, where she represented the Chief of the Armed Forces Staff and the Chief of the Navy Staff to the high military authorities of numerous countries (ASEAN countries, China, Japan, South Korea, Chile, Peru, Australia, United States, Russia) for several years.
After leaving the Navy at the end of 2016, she carried out missions for the Directorate General of International Relations and Strategy of the Ministry of Armed Forces as a Military Special Envoy in Southeast Asia.
Since 2019, she has been teaching a seminar at Sciences Po - Le Havre campus focusing on the maritime challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, she showcases her skills as a speaker on maritime security as well as leadership and management topics.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise discovering Sri Lanka and India, a mosaic of peoples and cultures amidst luxuriant landscapes.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: in Sri Lanka, the old town of Galle and its fortifications; the churches and convents of Goa; and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station (formerly known as Victoria Terminus) in Mumbai.
- Kerala’s lush landscapes during an excursion in the ‘backwaters’: rivers edged with palm trees, rice paddies, fishing villages.
- The cultural heritage of Goa, a former Portuguese colony.
- Overnight stays in Kochi and Mumbai to discover their distinctive atmosphere and eclectic architecture as well as the hustle and bustle of these Indian cities.
- After your cruise: the possibility of discovering the temples of Colombo and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Dambulla and Polonnaruwa.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
March 13, 2025 - Mumbai (ex Bombay)
Embarkation 3/13/2025 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 3/13/2025 at 6:00 PM
Mumbai, a fascinating city located on the Arabian Sea, will give you a real immersion in Hindu culture. You will be able to discover the Elephanta Caves that are home to collection of rock art typical of the cult of Shiva. Don’t miss out on visiting the Gandhi Museum and House, dedicated to the memory of the man who played a vital role in the emancipation and independence of India, or the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station (formerly known as Victoria Terminus), the finest example of Victorian architecture in India. In the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya museum, you will find very fine collections of sculptures, miniatures and portraits of the man who would become King George V.
March 14, 2025 - At sea
Arrival 3/14/2025
Departure 3/14/2025
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
March 15, 2025 - Marmugao (Goa)
Arrival 3/15/2025 early morning
Departure 3/15/2025 late afternoon
Marmugao is a sub-district of South Goa located in the state of Goa, in India. This is where the state’s main maritime port is to be found. Renowned around the world for its climate, the beauty of its beaches, its rice paddies and its waterfalls, Goa will surprise you with the cultural and religious heritage of its old town. It has a great many 16th- and 17th-century churches, making up a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus but also Hindu temples and mosques. The Goa Chitra Museum, Goa’s main ethnographic museum, is also worth a visit.
March 16, 2025 - At sea
Arrival 3/16/2025
Departure 3/16/2025
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
March 17, 2025 March 18, 2025 - Cochin
Arrival 3/17/2025 early morning
Departure 3/18/2025 late afternoon
An important port in the South-West of India, Cochin (Kochi) is one of the most beautiful on the Malabar Coast where the scent of cardamom mingles with cloves. It was here that Vasco de Gama disembarked over 500 years ago. But how many Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs and Romans dropped anchor before him in the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea? So many nations, at a time when pepper from Malabar was almost as precious as gold, left these shores laden with precious spices. Today, the city, a surprising metropolis with multiple identities, has a rich cultural and natural heritage combining former colonial residences, ancestral fishing methods and charming landscapes in the backwaters.
March 19, 2025 - At sea
Arrival 3/19/2025
Departure 3/19/2025
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
March 20, 2025 - Galle
Arrival 3/20/2025 early morning
Departure 3/20/2025 early evening
Discover Galle, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest cities. Thanks to its commercial port, from which were exported spices and precious stones, Galle was once the country’s most major city. Colonised by the Portuguese and later by the Dutch, today it still bears traces of this colonial past. When your ship calls here, have a wander around the old town and its fortifications, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Built by the Portuguese at the end of the 16th century, they are perfectly preserved. To learn more about daily and rural life in Sri Lanka, do not miss the visit to the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Art Museum in Koggala, not far from Galle.
March 21, 2025 - Hambantota
Arrival 3/21/2025 early morning
Departure 3/21/2025 early afternoon
This large fishing harbour of Malay origin lies on the southern coast of the former Ceylon. Established between two lagoons, Hambantota is known for the presence of wild elephants, whose population represents 10% of the total number in the country. This abundant wildlife can be observed a few kilometres away, in Yala National Park, the second largest park in Sri Lanka. This wildlife sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to admire the myriad rare animals that live there. Sloth bears, mongooses, crocodiles, monkeys, and buffaloes live in this place where it is not uncommon to happen upon elegant leopards while out walking. The tropical rainforests are also a refuge for more than two hundred bird species. A veritable Eden for biodiversity and an extraordinary part of the world to explore.
March 22, 2025 - Trincomalee
Arrival 3/22/2025 early morning
Departure 3/22/2025 early evening
A large port city in the north-east of Sri Lanka, Trincomalee will be your gateway to two exceptional sites. The Golden Temple of Dambulla, a rock temple listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is sure to fill you with wonder. Its Buddhist mural paintings, its caves and its famous statue of reclining Buddha heighten the beauty of this place that is like none other in the world, created over 2,000 years ago. The other cultural gem you will be able to discover: the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa. Also listed as UNESCO World Heritage, it is home to the vestiges of a fabulous garden-city from the 12th century. There, you will be able to admire the Gal Vihara, an exceptional site featuring four statues of Buddha carved out of rock.
March 23, 2025 - At sea
Arrival 3/23/2025
Departure 3/23/2025
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
March 24, 2025 - Colombo
Arrival 3/24/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 3/24/2025 at 8:00 AM
A former trading post along the Silk Route, the old quarter of Colombo offers you the fabulous sight of its picturesque streets. The city was known to Arab, Persian and Chinese traders as early as the 8th century and this former village, nestled between two dunes, was a trading post on the mythical Spice Route. Today the economic capital of Sri Lanka, the city offers picture-postcard scenery with its beaches stretching languorously along the south-western coast of the country. Here the sand dazzles you and the sea invites you to dream...
Churches of Old Goa
From the pier, embark your coach for your exploration of Goa and its churches. Goa has many impressive churches and convents, all of which have become UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Today, come and appreciate the imposing façades and altars of these wonderfully well-maintained churches. You will visit:
Basilica's Bom Jesus where lies the legendary 16th century missionary Saint Francis Xavier. It is visited by pilgrims from all over the world.
Saint Augustin Tower, witness of the church which has been built on top of the Monte Santo (Holy Hill), between 1597 and 1602 by Augustinian friars who landed in Goa in 1587. The church was considered as one of the three great Augustinian churches in the Iberian world along with El Escorial and the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora.
Saint Catherine cathedral, which was commissioned to be “a grandiose church worthy of the wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese who dominated the seas from the Atlantic to the Pacific”. With its exterior Tuscan design, it is still larger than any other church in Portugal and said to be the largest in Asia.
Church of Saint Cajetan, modelled on Saint Peter’s in Rome. Its neoclassical facade, with twin towers flanking the great dome, disguises an interior that is pure, unrestrained baroque.
- The drive to and from Old Goa takes approximately 1½ hour in each direction. This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) of walking and 50 uneven and broken steps to visit St Augustin tower. Photo and video are not allowed inside the churches and the cathedral. appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ethnographic museum & Portuguese mansion
From the pier, board your coach for the 1¼ hour-drive to Goa Chitra Museum, the first and only ethnographic museum of Goa. The museum has a unique collection and display of original farming implements and other ancient tools of trade, set against the backdrop of a traditional organic farm.
Goa Chitra is a monumental testament to one man single-handed quest to collect and preserve Goa timeless agrarian technology and lifestyle. There are currently more than 4,000 artefacts on display here: collectibles pottery, farming tools, musical instruments, ancient carts and palanquins. Goa Chitra also showcases an organic farm for the cultivation of various vegetables, herbs, spices, sugar cane and rice – all staples of the area. Founded and administered by Victor Hugo Gomes, the Goa Chitra Museum has been rated by the Archaeological Survey of India as the “top contemporary museum” in India.
Next, passing by the Holy Spirit Church Square, proceed for the Figueiredo Mansion, belonging to the most influential family of Goa for over 400 years. Built in 1590, the Figueiredo Mansion predates the Taj Mahal by decades. It was designed by Jesuit priests from nearby Rachol Seminary to accommodate a newly converted goan family – the Podiars, who took the name Figueiredo. The house sumptuous interior stands in studied contrast to the natural beauty of the paddy fields and coconut trees that surround it. In the 18th century, as the family was rising in power, the house was suitably augmented to achieve its current proportions.
After the visit, enjoy an authentic goan lunch.
On the way back to the pier, a stop will be made at the Mormugao market with its strong Portuguese influence. Here, you can see fresh fruits and colourful local vegetables.
- This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Order of the visit may vary.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Old Goa & Goan delicacies
Your day starts with a drive to Panjim (Lately known as Panaji), one of the India's smallest and most pleasant state capital located on the river Mandovi. The town has preserved its Portuguese heritage remarkably well and there's a whole Latin Quarters with its narrow winding streets, Old Mansions with over hanging Balconies, Red tiled roofs, numerous Taverns and bakeries.
Your first food experience will be around the corner in the hidden gem Panjim Inn. Enjoy local savories with beer and the guide will ensure and choose the best sweets made. Continue your walk to explore the city buying local souvenirs for 45 minutes.
Later visit Bom Jesus Church before you reach Spice Plantation. At the Plantation, you will enjoy a short walk around the plantation to learn how spices and herbs are grown organically before experiencing Hindu style cuisine. It is originated from its Hindu roots, this cuisine is mainly pescetarian and locate vegetarian with use of mild herbs, tamarind and Kokum souring. The medium of cooking is coconut oil and you have both veg & non-Vegetarian dishes.
Enjoy the delicious Goan lunch on a banana leaf in an open-air restaurant surrounded by nature. Later you have a chance to shop array of Indian spices which you can take back home.
-
This tour involves walking on uneven grounds. We recommend you wear light clothing and comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Bring water from the ship. Guests are advised to mind their belongings at all times and not carry large denominations of money. Order of visits may change or operate in reverse due to traffic/other unforeseen circumstances.
Total : €130
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Alleypey backwaters cruise by houseboat
One of the highlights of Kerala is the backwaters and their traditional houseboats that glide through one of India’s most beautiful and tranquil landscapes, a rural expanse of verdant coconut groves and rice paddies.
Depart Cochin by coach for a 1 ¾-hour journey passing through small villages where the locals go about their daily life. On arrival in Alappuzha (formerly known as Alleppey), board your houseboat. Care is taken to use only natural products when building these boats. Bamboo mats, sticks and wood of areca palm are used for the roofing, coir mats and wooden planks for the flooring, and wood of coconut trees and coir for beds. For lighting though, solar panels are used.
The term “backwaters” refers to the intermeshed network of rivers, lakes, canals and lagoons that tie together the coastal and interior regions south of Cochin. For centuries, these canals provided a safe and efficient means of transportation for goods and people moving between the heartland of Kerala and the port towns along the coast. Even today, traditional barges, or kettuvallams, haul coconut, pepper, rice and other goods along the waterways.
Relax on board while drifting along shimmering waterways lined with dense tropical vegetation and observe rural Kerala lifestyles from the comfortable boat deck.
The landscape ranges from narrow canals walled in with thick greenery, to open vistas of brilliant green paddy fields or large open lagoons. Peering through the trees, you will see churches, mosques and temples. On the water edge, notice villagers bathing and scrubbing their clothes, and sometimes washing their buffaloes.
As your cruise comes to an end, stop for lunch at a resort located on the shores of the lagoon surrounded by green palm trees.
After lunch, get back to your boat for a short transfer back to your coach for your journey back to Cochin.
- This tour involves very little walking. The transfer to and from Alleppey takes approximately 1 ¾ hour in each direction. The houseboat cruise takes approximately 2 ½ hour. The houseboat is not air-conditioned but offers shade. Protect yourself from the sun. Each houseboat has a capacity of 35 guests.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Highlights of Cochin
A trading port since ancient times, Cochin has a relaxed seaport lifestyle that has changed little over the centuries. From the pier, embark your coach and start your journey, by the sea. Discover the large, graceful Chinese fishing nets that line the shore, first introduced by traders from the Court of Kublai Khan.
Then, enjoy a short and pleasant walk to the typical English village green. In one corner stands the Church of St. Francis, said to be the oldest European church in India. Its simple style is only enhanced by the handsome floor tiles that line the main aisle. Another sign of architectural simplicity of the church is the punkahs, or large cloth fans. Suspended above the parishioners and operated manually from outside the church, the fans are a relic from colonial times.
Continue to the Dhobi Khana (public laundry). Each morning, dirty laundry from all over city is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten and thrashed. Stop here for photos before reaching a local restaurant for a refreshment.
Later, proceed to Jew town and discover the fascinating mix of antique shops, warehouses and spice auction rooms. Enjoy a visit of the local synagogue.
Finally, conclude your tour by stopping at the Dutch Palace, an oriental-style structure built by the Portuguese during the 16th century. Occupied neither by the Portuguese nor the Dutch over the ensuing centuries, the palace has wooden interior, which is decorated with a series of murals. In the royal bedroom, there are 45 murals depicting the great Indian epic, the Ramayana. The palace also boasts an interesting collection of Dutch maps, coronation robes belonging to the maharajas, along with royal palanquins, weapons and furniture.
Then, get back to your coach for your transfer to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 650m (0.4 mile) of walking, on uneven ground with steps. At St. Francis Church, you may have to remove your shoes to enter. Photos or videos are not allowed at the Portuguese Museum. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Order of the visits may vary.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Harbour cruise & Kathakali performance
From the pier, take a short transfer to the boat jetty and embark on a small boat for an idyllic trip through the waters of the city. For centuries, these canals have provided a safe and efficient means of transportation for goods and people moving between the heartland and the port towns along the coast.
In the comfort of your boat, glide along shimmering waterways past the Gundu and Vypeen islands. Get a glimpse of the large, graceful Chinese fishing nets that line the shore of Fort Cochin. Observe Kerala lifestyles as your boat drifts past old harbour buildings and private homes.
At the end of the one-hour cruise, your boat will drop you off at the jetty at Fort Cochin. Most of Cochin historical buildings are located in Fort Cochin, constructed in 1500 by Portuguese general Alfonzo de Albuquerque. Albuquerque arrived with half a dozen ships bearing settlers and five friars, and built the first European church in India, St. Francis Church. It is a short and pleasant walk along green and leafy streets to a typical English village green. In one corner stands the Church of St. Francis.
Spend a few minutes watching how the Chinese fishing nets are operated. Said to have been introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan, they cantilever over the harbour and operate by a system of weights and levers. The nets, on wooden frames, are raised periodically to check the catch.
Your walk will end at the nearby Greenix Village, dedicated to presenting and promoting the various facets of Kerala’s art and culture. A private Kathakali performance and some light refreshments await you at this venue. Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in the world. It originated in the area of south-western India now known as the state of Kerala. It is a well-developed dance drama, where the actors depict characters from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Kathakali dance performance is very dramatic and is enacted with elaborate masks and costumes. Kathakali recitals are emotive and narrative, and combine dance with dialogue to bring myth and legend to life in the temple courtyards of Kerala.
- This tour involves approximately 2 km (1.2 miles of walking). At St. Francis Church, you may have to remove your shoes to enter. On Sundays, the visit of St. Francis church will be limited to a photo-stop. Wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Life in Viakom
An hour’s drive from Cochin is the village of Viakom, a temple town surrounded by the backwaters of Kerala. One of the oldest villages in Kerala, Viakom offers a good depiction of rural life, where education and employment are of a high standard and life is simple.
On arrival, you will be given a traditional welcome by the villagers before strolling through the village to see what a typical day is like here. Watch the ladies weaving coir ropes from dried coconut husks, see straw mats being woven out of wild pineapple leaves and watch the local potter create a range of pots and vases, depicting ethnic designs in clay. Visit the inside of a local house and interact with the family members.
Then take a short walk to a small jetty where you board a local country-made canoe for a short leisurely cruise down the narrow canals. These narrow canals range from 1.2 metre (4 feet) in depth before entering into the main backwaters, which are much deeper. The canoe ride passes through coconut palm groves posing as a canopy in providing shade and a cool atmosphere.
Walking to the outskirts of the village, you will be able to visit a khadi weaving centre where you can see villagers produce hand-spun and hand-woven cloth out of cotton, silk or wool yarns. Khadi is not just a cloth in India but a whole movement started by Mahatma Gandhi, who promoted the idea that Indians could be self-sufficient on cotton and free from the high-priced goods and cloths which the British were selling them.
- This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mile) of walking. You will be sitting on plastic chairs on the canoe. Embarkation and disembarkation of the canoe are done directly along the shoreline, there will be staff to help you get in and out. Wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €130
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Galle city tour
From the pier, board your coach and travel to Koggala for a visit to the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum. The museum currently holds over a thousand artifacts of Sri Lankan rural life, providing a vast and unique storehouse of knowledge of local folk culture and technology going back several centuries. Sections are dedicated to Buddhist religious artifacts, the evolution of the Sinhala alphabet, an agricultural village, musical instruments and much, much more.
From here, you will make your way back to Galle to explore the fort which was originally built by the Portuguese and then modified by the Dutch during the 17th century. Even today, after 400 years of existence, it looks new and polished with reconstruction work done by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.
Step back in time, as your guide brings the colourful history of the fort to life, during a guided walking tour. Weave your way along the narrow lanes, pass through the courtyard to the Dutch Hospital shopping complex, before viewing the Lighthouse, Clock Tower and the Ramparts. Then, stop for a tea and enjoy delicious Sri Lankan sweetmeats.
Before heading back to the pier, enjoy some time at leisure inside the Galle fort premises. You may like to purchase some souvenirs.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Charm of Galle
From the pier, board your local coach and head to Koggala to experience the ever-famous stilt fishermen engaging in their daily catch. Stilt fishing is an age-old fishing method in Sri Lanka and remains as a scenic icon in the southern coastal belt today. Notice how carefully balanced the fishermen are as they position themselves on the thin stilt during the low tide to fish in the rising waters of the high tide.
Then, reboard your coach and drive to the only producer of Virgin White tea in Sri Lanka resides about 45 minutes away from the port city of Galle at the Handunugoda Tea Estate. While originally produced in China for the Imperial Emperor, the estate has taken on the task of recreating the exact recipe and following the tradition that ensures that the only human part that comes into contact with the tea is the lips.
On arrival, make your way to the owner’s bungalow, sit and enjoy a cup of tea and cake while asking him about the tea process and plantation. After tea, make your way down to the plantation itself where you are able to watch the plucking process while listening to an informative explanation on the culture of tea. Then, head into the factory, where you are able to see the old machinery still in use.
Finally, you will make your way back to Galle to explore the fort which was originally built by the Portuguese and then modified by the Dutch during the 17th century. Even today, after 400 years of existence, it looks new and polished with reconstruction work done by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.
Step back in time, as your guide brings the colourful history of the fort to life, during a guided walking tour. Weave your way along the narrow lanes, pass through the courtyard to the Dutch Hospital shopping complex, before viewing the Lighthouse, Clock Tower and the Ramparts.
Before heading back to the pier, enjoy some time at leisure inside the Galle fort premises. You may like to purchase some souvenirs.
- This tour involves walking on uneven grounds and steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. It is possible to purchase souvenirs inside the Tea shop in the estate. Please note that only Sri Lankan Rupees and USD will be accepted.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mangroves & southern folklore
From the pier, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Balapitiya. From here, start your river safari along the Madhu, famous for its biodiversity as well as being an Eco-reserve. Embark on small boats which will take you past the mangroves and locals collecting prawns in their traditional method. You may catch a glimpse of the numerous varieties of different amphibian and avian species.
Madhu Ganga River has one of the most diverse biomes, including different vegetation types, such as the predominating mangroves and the marshlands. The Madhu Ganga wetland consists of 10 major vegetation types; these comprise a total of 303 species of plants belonging to 95 families. The total plant species include 19 endemic and nationally threatened species and 9 invasive alien species. Disembark on one of the islands where you will be able to witness a display of traditional Sri Lankan cottage industries, such as cinnamon farming, coir making and coconut weaving. You will also have the opportunity to explore some of the other islands on the Madhu River and visit a Sri Lankan temple on one of them.
Head to Kosgoda and visit the turtle hatchery. Kosgoda is famous for its sea turtle conservation project, operated by the Wild Life Protection Society of Sri Lanka. It was established in 1988 to protect Sri Lanka’s turtles from extinction. Since then, it has released about 3.5 million baby turtles into the wild. The hatchery pays fishermen for eggs that they collect at night along the long sandy beach. Although October to April is the main laying season, some eggs (mostly green turtles) can be found at Kosgoda throughout the year. The hatchery buries the eggs in the sand, and when they hatch, around 50 days later, the baby turtles are released into the sea at night. Only about one in 1,000 turtles survive to maturity.
Later, you will be moved to a hotel for lunch.
After lunch take, the 1 ½ hour drive back to the pier.
- This tour does not involve much walking; however, participants must be able to get in and out of a local boat. Wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €170
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Yala National Park
Set off through the wilds of Yala National Park on a photographic safari to spot elephants, sloth bears, and other indigenous wildlife. This is one of the largest and most heralded National Parks in Sri Lanka and you will explore it in truly rugged fashion.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to the entrance of the national park. Upon your arrival, you will hop into an off-road vehicle, along with a local guide and park expert, and bound across the unspoiled terrain on a two-hour wildlife expedition. Yala is home to 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, so keep watch for elephants, sloth bears, deer, wild boar, colourful birds and exotic birds of prey. Snap awe-inspiring photos, learn about the wildlife spotted along the way; and marvel at the majesty of the scenery as you rumble through Yala National Park.
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The drive to and from Yala National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Bundala Park exploration
From the pier, embark your local coach for a short transfer to Bundala. This park spans nearly 40 square miles and has been officially declared a biosphere reserve. Bundala serves as a vital wintering ground for migratory birds, as well as home to some 15,000 shorebirds at any given time between August and April. Add it all up, and there are 149 different bird species that can be spotted in Bundala National Park.
Upon arrival, travel into the wilderness of Bundala National Park on a birdwatching expedition with a professional ornithologist, who knows the territory as no one else, to give you the best chance of an exceptional sightings. You are also likely to spot elephants, deer and wild buffalo during your expedition. Whether an avid birdwatcher or a novice, this tour will offer you a colorful and captivating day.
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Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars. This tour is conducted in English only.
Total : €160
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Udawalawe game drive
Set off on a full-day excursion designed to give you a remarkable look at the social order, intelligence and beauty of elephants in the wild.
From the pier, board your coach for the drive to Udawalawe National Park, where more than 400 wild elephants live safely in their natural habitat. Hop into an off-road vehicle for a 2.5-hour photo safari that is sure to provide an incredible perspective of these majestic creatures.
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The drive to/from Udawalawe National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars. Order of the visits may vary.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Sigiriya, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Drive from the pier to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This ancient rock fortress and palace ruin is surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures. Sigiriya is also renowned for its ancient paintings (commonly known as frescos), which are reminiscent of the Ajanta Caves of India. At the top of a sheltered spiral stairway you will find the famous Sigiriya frescoes, 21 figures of females depicted as rising from the clouds, which are some of the earliest surviving pictorial art in Sri Lanka. Built during the reign of the great controversial King Kasyapa (477 AD – 495 AD), it is one of the 7 world heritage sites in Sri Lanka and definitely a must-see destination in the Cultural Triangle and on the island.
After arriving in Sigiriya walk up the 1200-step ancient rock fortress at your own pace with your guide. Once at the top, your guide will recount stories from the bygone era and give you time to explore this magnificent piece of Sri Lankan history and the breathtaking views from the top of the rock.
Once you have returned to the bottom, drive to a hotel for a relaxing, well deserved lunch before returning to Trincomalee and our ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1 mile (1 600m) of walking with 1200 uneven steps (up and down for total of 2400 steps). We recommend you wear flat comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is only for very fit guests. The drive to/from Sirigiya takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Dambulla, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Depart from the pier and drive to Dambulla to visit the Golden Cave Temple, which is Sri Lanka's largest and best-preserved Temple.
Dating back to the First Century BC, the Golden Temple of Dambulla has been the center of pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus alike for 22 centuries. The Cave monastery, home to Buddhist monks, is covered with exquisite 2,000-year-old murals depicting the life and times of the Lord Buddha. The shrines also house a collection of 157 statues of Buddha in various sizes and poses, including a 15-meter-long reclining Buddha, and vividly coloured frescoes on the walls and ceiling, making this the largest antique painted surface in the world.
The largest and most impressive of the caves, the Temple of the Great King, is 52 meters from one side to another, and 23 meters from the entrance to the back, with the sloping ceiling seven meters at its highest point. The entire surface of the cave is a mosaic of frescoes with so many themes and styles that it is easy to be overwhelmed. The paintings at Dambulla are representative of many different epochs of Sinhalese Buddhist art, although the classical school of Sinhalese painting (which ceased at the end of the 12th century) is not represented. The “New School”, supposedly influenced by the contemporary South Indian Deccan School, is less successful than the earlier indigenous art forms, using brilliant colour schemes in predominately red and yellow. It is not possible to date the Dambulla paintings precisely, since they have been painted over throughout the centuries. Some, however, were originally done by Kandyan artists during the 17th century. It is no wonder the Rock Temple has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the climb, drive to Cinnamon Lodge Hotel for lunch before returning to Trincomalee.
- The drive to/from Dambulla takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 0.5 mile / 700 m of walking on uneven ground. There are 365 steps to reach the caves, or a long pathway with long steps. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Polonnaruwa, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Depart from the quayside and proceed to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa a 3-hour drive from the port.
Polonnaruwa was established as the capital after Anuradhapura had been invaded in the late 10th century. Under King Parakramabu, who ruled in the late 11th century, Polonnaruwa became a magnificent walled city. He built the vast reservoir, Parakrama Samudra (the Sea of Parakrama), still in use today, and ordered the construction of monasteries, temples, palaces, bathing pools and Buddhist statues; all set in a forested park surrounded by moats.
One of the most striking of the many sites is Polonnaruwa’s Gal Vihara, or Rock Shrine. The reclining Lord Buddha is near another statue showing him seated in deep meditation, his throne adorned with lions and thunderbolts. A second seated Lord Buddha, surrounded by other deities including Brahma and Vishnu, is set within a cave cut into the rock face that still bears traces of the frescoes which once decorated the walls. The fourth Gal Vihara statue departs from the conventional poses by depicting the Lord Buddha as a seven-meter tall standing figure with arms crossed. The Quadrangle, with 12 superb buildings standing on a platform in the centre of the ancient city, and the Lankatilleke image house, a vast brick building with a standing Buddha at the rear, are also among the many magnificent remains.
After visiting Polonnaruwa, drive to a hotel for lunch before returning to Trincomalee.
- The drive to/from Polonnaruwa takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 0,5 mile (800m) of walking on uneven ground. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold. Drones are not allowed.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Trincomalee city tour
Trincomalee, or ‘Trinco’ as it is affectionately known, has a rich history and has served as a hub of maritime and trading activities, thanks to its natural harbor. On the way to your first visit, enjoy photo stops at the fisheries harbour to take photographs of the fishing boats, a Buddhist Temple and maybe if you are lucky you will have the opportunity to spot Deer.
Your coach will take you to Fort Frederick, which was a defense site for over a century and now houses the colorful Koneshwaram Temple and Swami Rock from where you will enjoy a beautiful view of the sea.
Afterwards, drive to the fish market to experience the day to day life of fishermen. Enjoy some free time to explore the main street and a few lanes in and around the market area.
Drive to visit the Commonwealth war cemetery located close to the city of Trincomalee before returning to the pier.
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For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold. This tour involves approx. 1 km with some irregular steps. No photo are allowed inside the Koneswaram temple.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Le Lapérouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance.
The Blue Eye, an underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
COLOURS OF GOLDEN TRIANGLE (5 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of five days to explore the marvels of Agra and Jaipur. Learn the history of the Mughal builders and visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal, mausoleum of white marble. Visit the Pink city of Jaipur and discover its traditions. Reach Mumbai by plane and enjoy a panoramic tour of the ancient Bombay before embarking. This programme will be an ideal prelude to your cruise.
Day 1 - New Delhi
Meet at the New Delhi airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local English-speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to your hotel.
India’s largest city, Delhi, has been one of the country’s commercial and economic hubs for centuries and, as a result, is incredibly rich in culture and history. Made up of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the more modern sector, New Delhi, the city encompasses a staggering array of beautiful architecture, notable monuments, and age-old temples, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Red Fort, Qutab Minar, and Humayun's Tomb. Other key attractions include the 17th century Chandni Chowk marketplace – still one of the city’s most popular retail centres today, particularly for jewellery and traditional Indian saris; the iconic Bahà’i Lotus Temple – an award-winning architectural gem; and the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque.
Check-in your room at official hour.
Spend the remainder of the day and evening at leisure before dinner is served at the hotel.
Day 2 - New Delhi/Agra
After breakfast, check out from the hotel.
Assisted transfer to the railway station for a morning train journey to Agra. (Approx. 2 Hrs. onboard the train)
Gatimaan Express: Departure from Delhi at 08: 10, arrival in Agra at 09: 50 (based on timetables known at this stage, subject to change).
Upon arrival in Agra, board your coach and proceed for a sightseeing tour of the Agra Fort.
Known as the Red Fort of Agra, this walled imperial city was founded in 1565 by the emperor Akbar (1556-1605) and is a well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage site, located just 2.5 kilometres from the famous Taj Mahal. Its palaces, grand mosques and elaborate public hall are crafted from pink-red sandstone and are testament to an era when Indo-Muslim art, strongly marked by influences from Persia, was at its height. Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal for his deceased wife, was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in Agra Fort. He is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a marble tower he himself built, with one of the most alluring views of the Taj Mahal.
Then you will be transferred to your hotel and check in.
Enjoy your lunch at the hotel and relax.
Or book with extra fees the optionnal activity "Discovering Oriental Agra".
Dinner & Overnight at the hotel in Agra.
Optionnal activity: Discovering Oriental Agra.
This is a wonderful tour to enjoy the city of Agra at its atmospheric best, taking in glittering highlights and hidden gems that only locals know about. Admire the must-see masterpieces, discover tucked-away corners, and get all the insights!
This tour will be done by Eco-friendly electric Rickshaw through the heart of the Agra city. You will discover daily life of local people visiting the markets of Mughal period and five places of worship of different faiths.
Minimum - 2 persons
Tour Duration - 3 to 4 Hours
Day 3 - Agra/Jaipur
An early start this morning, but worth it for the sunrise views of the Taj Mahal.
It is fitting to see this extraordinary monument, the Taj Mahal, (closed on Fridays) by the first light of day as its exemplary beauty is awe-inspiring and will create an unforgettable memory. Commissioned by Mughul emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this beautiful mausoleum in pure white marble is an architectural marvel. Built as a lasting love between 1632 and 1648, its unique beauty and intricate execution contribute to its place as one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World. This famous monument stands for a lasting love.
After the visit return to the hotel to enjoy your breakfast.
After Breakfast, check out from the hotel for an intime drive to Jaipur. (Approx. 5 Hrs.)
Fringed by the rugged Aravali Hills, Jaipur is the capital and largest city in India’s northern state of Rajasthan. This city is famed for being India’s first planned city featuring a multitude of pink terracotta buildings within the walled historic centre, earning it the nickname,’ The Pink City. Jaipur falls within the Golden Triangle, a popular tourist circuit, which includes Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, and serves as a gateway to the neighbouring desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. This colourful city is a combination of tradition and modernity and offers visitors vibrant bazaars, lavish palaces, and ancient temples. The salmon-hued old city is home to the opulent City Palace, encompassing an impressive assortment of palatial structures, sprawling gardens, courtyards, and buildings. Don’t miss the fairy-tale splendour of the Amber Fort, set against the backdrop of the arid landscape.
Upon arrival in Jaipur check in at your hotel and enjoy your lunch.
Afternoon is free to relax at the hotel.
Or book with extra fees the optional activity: Saree/Safa (Turban) Tying & Kite Flying with Hi Tea.
Dinner & overnight at the hotel in Jaipur.
Optional activity: Saree/Safa (Turban) Tying & Kite Flying with Hi Tea
This afternoon, you will learn more about 3 must-sees of local life. Discover how to fly kites, a popular activity in Jaipur mentioned in the description of Jaipur bazaars from 1770.
Also discover how to wear the traditional local clothes, the "saree" and the "safa", with the emblematic colors of Rajasthan.
And enjoy Indian style high tea with Indian snacks and favourite beverage – Chai.
Minimum - 2 persons
Tour Duration - 2 to 3 Hours during the afternoon.
Day 4 - Jaipur
After breakfast, visit Amer Fort with Jeep ride.
The jeep ride will spare the trouble of walking up to the fortress. Reach the top of the Amer Fort, stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls. Learn about the Hindu and Mughal traditions that influenced the design of this impressive structure which is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Amer Fort was built by Raja Man Singh I in the 16th century and was completed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century. With its large ramparts and series of gates and cobbled paths, the fort overlooks Maota Lake, at its forefront.
The popular buildings in the fort consist of: Diwan-i-Aam, the Diwan-i-Khas, the Sheesh Mahal (mirror palace), Jai Mandir and the Sukh Niwas.
After lunch the visit to the pink city continues with the City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory along with drive past Hawa Mahal.
City Palace forms one of the most famous tourist attractions and a major landmark in Jaipur. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture.
City Palace Visit with Hi-Tea is an exclusive tour that will reveal the most spectacular and private areas of the palace. During the tour, you will be escorted around the seven-storied Chandra Mahal, the primary residence of the Maharajas of Jaipur within the City Palace.
Dinner & Overnight at the hotel in Jaipur.
Day 5 - Jaipur/Mumbai
Enjoy leisurely breakfast at the hotel and relax.
Lunch included at the hotel.
After lunch, you will be transferred to Jaipur International airport to board the flight for Mumbai.
Fly Jaipur to Mumbai on a Schedule flight in the afternoon.
Arrive at the airport in the city of Mumbai airport followed by transfer to your hotel. Check-in in room.
Dinner & Overnight at the hotel in Mumbai.
Day 6 - Mumbai
After a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, check out and enjoy an interesting tour to experience the everyday local life on run in a busy city of Mumbai.
This unique exploration of the city offers a nice edge to your understanding of its cultural ethos. Each experience is driven by the response of the five senses – whether it's the architectural wonders that the eye beholds, the music and street sounds that one hears, the aroma of street food and the overpowering scents of the spice market or the textures of marigold at the flower market or woven silk at an emporium or the sting of spicy curry on the palate.
Enjoy your lunch at the local restaurant followed drive to the Mumbai port to embark aboard your ship.
Your hotels:
The Oberoi Rajvilas is located just a 15-minute drive away from the city centre of Jaipur, making it an ideal base from which to explore various tourist attractions in the city.
Its design is inspired by Rajasthani traditional architecture blends perfectly with modern conveniences.
The Oberoi Amarvilas has a thoroughly convincing argument for staying here: its 109 rooms and suites as well as all the common areas of this luxury hotel face the world-famous Taj Mahal, a wonder of the world located just 600 meters from the Amarvilas. But there are other reasons as well. The architecture pays tribute to the Mughal era with a spectacular courtyard, blending fountains and oriental type object, creating a dream like setting. On the horizon, we find the famous Taj Mahal, and on the sides, long, deep perspectives. Guests have the constant impression of walking through a palace, thanks to the rich décor and the incredible attention to details.
The Oberoi New Delhi boast breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb and a forested golf course. The guest rooms and suites are bright, spacious, and elegantly decorated, equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TVs, and private bathrooms. The suites boast generous floor space and separate living rooms with TVs. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurants serving delicious Indian, Chinese, and international cuisine or relax at the rooftop bar with a handcrafted cocktail. Additional amenities and services include a swimming pool, a fitness centre, a spa, meeting facilities, event hosting, a lobby lounge, parking, and a reception.
The Oberoi, Mumbai is an iconic hotel of Mumbai which continues to live up to its reputation of being one of the world’s best hotels with its elegant and expansive suites, views over the Mumbai skyline and Arabian Sea and excellent service. There are 287 luxurious guest rooms including 73 suites with expansive views either over the water or 'city views' overlooking Nariman Point. The rooms are adorned with specially commissioned paintings and lithographs, mother-of-pearl cabinetry, dark oak floors and touches of silk in the upholstery. Guests have several dining options to choose from. Ziya is the contemporary Indian speciality restaurant, with a menu designed by the Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia. The Italian restaurant Vetro has an attached wine library.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Deluxe room at the the Oberoi Hotel5*, New Delhi, local standard (or similar) including breakfast.
- 1-night accommodation in Premier room with balcony at the Oberoi Amarvilas 5*, Agra, local standard (or similar) including breakfast.
- 2-nights'accommodation in Premier room at the Oberoi Rajvilas 5*, Jaipur, local standard (or similar) including breakfast.
- 1-night accommodation in Luxury room at the Oberoi 5*, Mumbai local standard (or similar) including breakfast.
- Meals as mentioned on the programme.
- Beverages package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea). Except on Republic Day, non alcoholic drinks only.
- Transfers, visits, activities, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- Porterage at hotels and airports.
- Services of local English-speaking guide.
- A domestic flight in economy class: Jaipur/Mumbai.
- Train journey Delhi-Agra, local standard.
Your programme does not include:
- Early check-in and late check-out.
- Optional activitues and services.
- Visa fees.
- Tips for the drivers and local guides.
- Overweight baggage.
- Personal expenses.
- Meals, drinks, and all services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. This tour involves walking city tours on mostly flat, uneven surface.
- This programme is not recommended for people with back pain or motion sickness due to some long transfers by coach.
- Northern India experiences winters from November to February. The days will be cool and morning & evenings will be cold, be advised to pack accordingly.
- During March the weather is warmer but we still recommend all the guests to carry some light jacket or shawl as even air conditioning inside the bus could be cold for some guests and they might need inside the restaurant specially during the dinners again due to centralised air conditioning at the hotels.
- We advise you to pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes.
- To visit temples, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees).
- We recommend to pack a small bag for your train ride since the main luggage is transported in the bus by road and must be prepared in advance before the bus departure.
- Baggage allowance for the flight Mumbai-Jaipur: 1 piece of baggage with a maximum of weight of 15 kg. We have included 15 extra kg, so you can check-in 1 piece of baggage of a maximum weight of 30 kg. Hand baggage: 1 piece with a maximum weight of 7 kg and the sum of three dimensions shall not exceed 115 cm (56 x 36 x 23 cm) or (22 x 14 x 9 inches). Battery, power bank, mobile charger etc. are not allowed in check-in baggage.
- All the timings mentioned in the description are for reference only. The same is subject to change on the day of executing the programme.
- Due to the traffic conditions, the itinerary might be changed and rearranged consequently if time permitting.
- On Republic Day (on January 26th) is a dry day, no alcohol will be served. Only non alcoholic beverages will be served.
- The Agra fort visit involves a walk of 750 meters on uneven surface and about 10 steps.
- The Taj Mahal visit involves a walk of about 750 metres on flat marble ground with about 25 steps.
- The visit of City Palace involves a walk of about 500 metres on some flat and uneven surface with about 30 steps.
- Official check-in is at 14: 00, official check-out is at 12: 00.
Contact of your hotels:
The Oberoi, New Delhi
Dr Zakir Hussain Marg, Delhi Golf Club, New Delhi, 110003 India
Telephone: + 91 11 2436 3060
The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Taj East Gate Rd, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India
Telephone: + 91 562 223 1515
The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur
Jaipur, Rajasthan 32031 India
Telephone: + 91 141 268 0101
The Oberoi, Mumbai
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021, India
Telephone: + 91 22 6632 5757
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $4,740
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.MUMBAI, THE CITY OF DREAMS (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Mumbai
Meet at the Mumbai airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local English-speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Check-in your room. Spend the remainder of the day and evening at leisure before dinner is served at the hotel.
Day 2 - Mumbai
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and enjoy an interesting tour to experience the everyday local life on run in a busy city of Mumbai.
Formerly known as Bombay, the bustling city of Mumbai sprawls along India’s West Coast and is the largest city in the country. This thriving metropolis is a go-to destination for travellers curious to experience a modern Indian city. It serves as the heart of India’s world-renowned film industry, the incomparable ‘Bollywood’, and offers a kaleidoscope of culture, colour, and flavours to enjoy. Lapped by the Arabian Sea, this urban seaside peninsula is a melting pot of old and new India.
This unique exploration of the city offers a nice edge to your understanding of its cultural ethos. Each experience is driven by the response of the five senses – whether it's the architectural wonders that the eye beholds, the music and street sounds that one hears, the aroma of street food and the overpowering scents of the spice market or the textures of marigold at the flower market or woven silk at an emporium or the sting of spicy curry on the palate.
Enjoy lunch at the local restaurant.
You will then be transferred to the port of Mumbai to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Taj Mahal Palace & Towers is often described as one of the most charming hotels anywhere in the world is located on the harbour in Colaba. Over the decades everyone – from visiting dignitaries to maharajas – has stayed at this property overlooking the Gateway of India. Its 550 guest rooms and suites are clean-lined and elegant, a milieu furthered at the resort’s 10 restaurants, including Wasabi by Morimoto, the city's first Japanese eatery, and it’s indulgent Jiva spa.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Luxury Grand Room City View Suite at Taj Mahal Palace 5* Mumbai (local standard) or similar.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide.
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Hospitality desk at the hotel the day of your departure.
Your programme does not include:
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Hotel services and activities in extra.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
-
Early check-in and late check-out.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
Official hotel check-in time is 2:00 p.m.
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Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 p.m.
Contact of your hotel:
Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai 5*
Apollo Bunder, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400 001, India
Telephone: +91 22 6665 3366
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $840
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Churches of Old Goa
From the pier, embark your coach for your exploration of Goa and its churches. Goa has many impressive churches and convents, all of which have become UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Today, come and appreciate the imposing façades and altars of these wonderfully well-maintained churches. You will visit:
Basilica's Bom Jesus where lies the legendary 16th century missionary Saint Francis Xavier. It is visited by pilgrims from all over the world.
Saint Augustin Tower, witness of the church which has been built on top of the Monte Santo (Holy Hill), between 1597 and 1602 by Augustinian friars who landed in Goa in 1587. The church was considered as one of the three great Augustinian churches in the Iberian world along with El Escorial and the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora.
Saint Catherine cathedral, which was commissioned to be “a grandiose church worthy of the wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese who dominated the seas from the Atlantic to the Pacific”. With its exterior Tuscan design, it is still larger than any other church in Portugal and said to be the largest in Asia.
Church of Saint Cajetan, modelled on Saint Peter’s in Rome. Its neoclassical facade, with twin towers flanking the great dome, disguises an interior that is pure, unrestrained baroque.
- The drive to and from Old Goa takes approximately 1½ hour in each direction. This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) of walking and 50 uneven and broken steps to visit St Augustin tower. Photo and video are not allowed inside the churches and the cathedral. appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Ethnographic museum & Portuguese mansion
From the pier, board your coach for the 1¼ hour-drive to Goa Chitra Museum, the first and only ethnographic museum of Goa. The museum has a unique collection and display of original farming implements and other ancient tools of trade, set against the backdrop of a traditional organic farm.
Goa Chitra is a monumental testament to one man single-handed quest to collect and preserve Goa timeless agrarian technology and lifestyle. There are currently more than 4,000 artefacts on display here: collectibles pottery, farming tools, musical instruments, ancient carts and palanquins. Goa Chitra also showcases an organic farm for the cultivation of various vegetables, herbs, spices, sugar cane and rice – all staples of the area. Founded and administered by Victor Hugo Gomes, the Goa Chitra Museum has been rated by the Archaeological Survey of India as the “top contemporary museum” in India.
Next, passing by the Holy Spirit Church Square, proceed for the Figueiredo Mansion, belonging to the most influential family of Goa for over 400 years. Built in 1590, the Figueiredo Mansion predates the Taj Mahal by decades. It was designed by Jesuit priests from nearby Rachol Seminary to accommodate a newly converted goan family – the Podiars, who took the name Figueiredo. The house sumptuous interior stands in studied contrast to the natural beauty of the paddy fields and coconut trees that surround it. In the 18th century, as the family was rising in power, the house was suitably augmented to achieve its current proportions.
After the visit, enjoy an authentic goan lunch.
On the way back to the pier, a stop will be made at the Mormugao market with its strong Portuguese influence. Here, you can see fresh fruits and colourful local vegetables.
- This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Order of the visit may vary.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Old Goa & Goan delicacies
Your day starts with a drive to Panjim (Lately known as Panaji), one of the India's smallest and most pleasant state capital located on the river Mandovi. The town has preserved its Portuguese heritage remarkably well and there's a whole Latin Quarters with its narrow winding streets, Old Mansions with over hanging Balconies, Red tiled roofs, numerous Taverns and bakeries.
Your first food experience will be around the corner in the hidden gem Panjim Inn. Enjoy local savories with beer and the guide will ensure and choose the best sweets made. Continue your walk to explore the city buying local souvenirs for 45 minutes.
Later visit Bom Jesus Church before you reach Spice Plantation. At the Plantation, you will enjoy a short walk around the plantation to learn how spices and herbs are grown organically before experiencing Hindu style cuisine. It is originated from its Hindu roots, this cuisine is mainly pescetarian and locate vegetarian with use of mild herbs, tamarind and Kokum souring. The medium of cooking is coconut oil and you have both veg & non-Vegetarian dishes.
Enjoy the delicious Goan lunch on a banana leaf in an open-air restaurant surrounded by nature. Later you have a chance to shop array of Indian spices which you can take back home.
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This tour involves walking on uneven grounds. We recommend you wear light clothing and comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Bring water from the ship. Guests are advised to mind their belongings at all times and not carry large denominations of money. Order of visits may change or operate in reverse due to traffic/other unforeseen circumstances.
Total : €130
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Alleypey backwaters cruise by houseboat
One of the highlights of Kerala is the backwaters and their traditional houseboats that glide through one of India’s most beautiful and tranquil landscapes, a rural expanse of verdant coconut groves and rice paddies.
Depart Cochin by coach for a 1 ¾-hour journey passing through small villages where the locals go about their daily life. On arrival in Alappuzha (formerly known as Alleppey), board your houseboat. Care is taken to use only natural products when building these boats. Bamboo mats, sticks and wood of areca palm are used for the roofing, coir mats and wooden planks for the flooring, and wood of coconut trees and coir for beds. For lighting though, solar panels are used.
The term “backwaters” refers to the intermeshed network of rivers, lakes, canals and lagoons that tie together the coastal and interior regions south of Cochin. For centuries, these canals provided a safe and efficient means of transportation for goods and people moving between the heartland of Kerala and the port towns along the coast. Even today, traditional barges, or kettuvallams, haul coconut, pepper, rice and other goods along the waterways.
Relax on board while drifting along shimmering waterways lined with dense tropical vegetation and observe rural Kerala lifestyles from the comfortable boat deck.
The landscape ranges from narrow canals walled in with thick greenery, to open vistas of brilliant green paddy fields or large open lagoons. Peering through the trees, you will see churches, mosques and temples. On the water edge, notice villagers bathing and scrubbing their clothes, and sometimes washing their buffaloes.
As your cruise comes to an end, stop for lunch at a resort located on the shores of the lagoon surrounded by green palm trees.
After lunch, get back to your boat for a short transfer back to your coach for your journey back to Cochin.
- This tour involves very little walking. The transfer to and from Alleppey takes approximately 1 ¾ hour in each direction. The houseboat cruise takes approximately 2 ½ hour. The houseboat is not air-conditioned but offers shade. Protect yourself from the sun. Each houseboat has a capacity of 35 guests.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Highlights of Cochin
A trading port since ancient times, Cochin has a relaxed seaport lifestyle that has changed little over the centuries. From the pier, embark your coach and start your journey, by the sea. Discover the large, graceful Chinese fishing nets that line the shore, first introduced by traders from the Court of Kublai Khan.
Then, enjoy a short and pleasant walk to the typical English village green. In one corner stands the Church of St. Francis, said to be the oldest European church in India. Its simple style is only enhanced by the handsome floor tiles that line the main aisle. Another sign of architectural simplicity of the church is the punkahs, or large cloth fans. Suspended above the parishioners and operated manually from outside the church, the fans are a relic from colonial times.
Continue to the Dhobi Khana (public laundry). Each morning, dirty laundry from all over city is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten and thrashed. Stop here for photos before reaching a local restaurant for a refreshment.
Later, proceed to Jew town and discover the fascinating mix of antique shops, warehouses and spice auction rooms. Enjoy a visit of the local synagogue.
Finally, conclude your tour by stopping at the Dutch Palace, an oriental-style structure built by the Portuguese during the 16th century. Occupied neither by the Portuguese nor the Dutch over the ensuing centuries, the palace has wooden interior, which is decorated with a series of murals. In the royal bedroom, there are 45 murals depicting the great Indian epic, the Ramayana. The palace also boasts an interesting collection of Dutch maps, coronation robes belonging to the maharajas, along with royal palanquins, weapons and furniture.
Then, get back to your coach for your transfer to the pier.
- This tour involves approximately 650m (0.4 mile) of walking, on uneven ground with steps. At St. Francis Church, you may have to remove your shoes to enter. Photos or videos are not allowed at the Portuguese Museum. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Order of the visits may vary.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Harbour cruise & Kathakali performance
From the pier, take a short transfer to the boat jetty and embark on a small boat for an idyllic trip through the waters of the city. For centuries, these canals have provided a safe and efficient means of transportation for goods and people moving between the heartland and the port towns along the coast.
In the comfort of your boat, glide along shimmering waterways past the Gundu and Vypeen islands. Get a glimpse of the large, graceful Chinese fishing nets that line the shore of Fort Cochin. Observe Kerala lifestyles as your boat drifts past old harbour buildings and private homes.
At the end of the one-hour cruise, your boat will drop you off at the jetty at Fort Cochin. Most of Cochin historical buildings are located in Fort Cochin, constructed in 1500 by Portuguese general Alfonzo de Albuquerque. Albuquerque arrived with half a dozen ships bearing settlers and five friars, and built the first European church in India, St. Francis Church. It is a short and pleasant walk along green and leafy streets to a typical English village green. In one corner stands the Church of St. Francis.
Spend a few minutes watching how the Chinese fishing nets are operated. Said to have been introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan, they cantilever over the harbour and operate by a system of weights and levers. The nets, on wooden frames, are raised periodically to check the catch.
Your walk will end at the nearby Greenix Village, dedicated to presenting and promoting the various facets of Kerala’s art and culture. A private Kathakali performance and some light refreshments await you at this venue. Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in the world. It originated in the area of south-western India now known as the state of Kerala. It is a well-developed dance drama, where the actors depict characters from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Kathakali dance performance is very dramatic and is enacted with elaborate masks and costumes. Kathakali recitals are emotive and narrative, and combine dance with dialogue to bring myth and legend to life in the temple courtyards of Kerala.
- This tour involves approximately 2 km (1.2 miles of walking). At St. Francis Church, you may have to remove your shoes to enter. On Sundays, the visit of St. Francis church will be limited to a photo-stop. Wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Life in Viakom
An hour’s drive from Cochin is the village of Viakom, a temple town surrounded by the backwaters of Kerala. One of the oldest villages in Kerala, Viakom offers a good depiction of rural life, where education and employment are of a high standard and life is simple.
On arrival, you will be given a traditional welcome by the villagers before strolling through the village to see what a typical day is like here. Watch the ladies weaving coir ropes from dried coconut husks, see straw mats being woven out of wild pineapple leaves and watch the local potter create a range of pots and vases, depicting ethnic designs in clay. Visit the inside of a local house and interact with the family members.
Then take a short walk to a small jetty where you board a local country-made canoe for a short leisurely cruise down the narrow canals. These narrow canals range from 1.2 metre (4 feet) in depth before entering into the main backwaters, which are much deeper. The canoe ride passes through coconut palm groves posing as a canopy in providing shade and a cool atmosphere.
Walking to the outskirts of the village, you will be able to visit a khadi weaving centre where you can see villagers produce hand-spun and hand-woven cloth out of cotton, silk or wool yarns. Khadi is not just a cloth in India but a whole movement started by Mahatma Gandhi, who promoted the idea that Indians could be self-sufficient on cotton and free from the high-priced goods and cloths which the British were selling them.
- This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mile) of walking. You will be sitting on plastic chairs on the canoe. Embarkation and disembarkation of the canoe are done directly along the shoreline, there will be staff to help you get in and out. Wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €130
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Galle city tour
From the pier, board your coach and travel to Koggala for a visit to the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum. The museum currently holds over a thousand artifacts of Sri Lankan rural life, providing a vast and unique storehouse of knowledge of local folk culture and technology going back several centuries. Sections are dedicated to Buddhist religious artifacts, the evolution of the Sinhala alphabet, an agricultural village, musical instruments and much, much more.
From here, you will make your way back to Galle to explore the fort which was originally built by the Portuguese and then modified by the Dutch during the 17th century. Even today, after 400 years of existence, it looks new and polished with reconstruction work done by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.
Step back in time, as your guide brings the colourful history of the fort to life, during a guided walking tour. Weave your way along the narrow lanes, pass through the courtyard to the Dutch Hospital shopping complex, before viewing the Lighthouse, Clock Tower and the Ramparts. Then, stop for a tea and enjoy delicious Sri Lankan sweetmeats.
Before heading back to the pier, enjoy some time at leisure inside the Galle fort premises. You may like to purchase some souvenirs.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Charm of Galle
From the pier, board your local coach and head to Koggala to experience the ever-famous stilt fishermen engaging in their daily catch. Stilt fishing is an age-old fishing method in Sri Lanka and remains as a scenic icon in the southern coastal belt today. Notice how carefully balanced the fishermen are as they position themselves on the thin stilt during the low tide to fish in the rising waters of the high tide.
Then, reboard your coach and drive to the only producer of Virgin White tea in Sri Lanka resides about 45 minutes away from the port city of Galle at the Handunugoda Tea Estate. While originally produced in China for the Imperial Emperor, the estate has taken on the task of recreating the exact recipe and following the tradition that ensures that the only human part that comes into contact with the tea is the lips.
On arrival, make your way to the owner’s bungalow, sit and enjoy a cup of tea and cake while asking him about the tea process and plantation. After tea, make your way down to the plantation itself where you are able to watch the plucking process while listening to an informative explanation on the culture of tea. Then, head into the factory, where you are able to see the old machinery still in use.
Finally, you will make your way back to Galle to explore the fort which was originally built by the Portuguese and then modified by the Dutch during the 17th century. Even today, after 400 years of existence, it looks new and polished with reconstruction work done by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.
Step back in time, as your guide brings the colourful history of the fort to life, during a guided walking tour. Weave your way along the narrow lanes, pass through the courtyard to the Dutch Hospital shopping complex, before viewing the Lighthouse, Clock Tower and the Ramparts.
Before heading back to the pier, enjoy some time at leisure inside the Galle fort premises. You may like to purchase some souvenirs.
- This tour involves walking on uneven grounds and steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. It is possible to purchase souvenirs inside the Tea shop in the estate. Please note that only Sri Lankan Rupees and USD will be accepted.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mangroves & southern folklore
From the pier, board your coach for the one-hour drive to Balapitiya. From here, start your river safari along the Madhu, famous for its biodiversity as well as being an Eco-reserve. Embark on small boats which will take you past the mangroves and locals collecting prawns in their traditional method. You may catch a glimpse of the numerous varieties of different amphibian and avian species.
Madhu Ganga River has one of the most diverse biomes, including different vegetation types, such as the predominating mangroves and the marshlands. The Madhu Ganga wetland consists of 10 major vegetation types; these comprise a total of 303 species of plants belonging to 95 families. The total plant species include 19 endemic and nationally threatened species and 9 invasive alien species. Disembark on one of the islands where you will be able to witness a display of traditional Sri Lankan cottage industries, such as cinnamon farming, coir making and coconut weaving. You will also have the opportunity to explore some of the other islands on the Madhu River and visit a Sri Lankan temple on one of them.
Head to Kosgoda and visit the turtle hatchery. Kosgoda is famous for its sea turtle conservation project, operated by the Wild Life Protection Society of Sri Lanka. It was established in 1988 to protect Sri Lanka’s turtles from extinction. Since then, it has released about 3.5 million baby turtles into the wild. The hatchery pays fishermen for eggs that they collect at night along the long sandy beach. Although October to April is the main laying season, some eggs (mostly green turtles) can be found at Kosgoda throughout the year. The hatchery buries the eggs in the sand, and when they hatch, around 50 days later, the baby turtles are released into the sea at night. Only about one in 1,000 turtles survive to maturity.
Later, you will be moved to a hotel for lunch.
After lunch take, the 1 ½ hour drive back to the pier.
- This tour does not involve much walking; however, participants must be able to get in and out of a local boat. Wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Total : €170
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Yala National Park
Set off through the wilds of Yala National Park on a photographic safari to spot elephants, sloth bears, and other indigenous wildlife. This is one of the largest and most heralded National Parks in Sri Lanka and you will explore it in truly rugged fashion.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to the entrance of the national park. Upon your arrival, you will hop into an off-road vehicle, along with a local guide and park expert, and bound across the unspoiled terrain on a two-hour wildlife expedition. Yala is home to 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, so keep watch for elephants, sloth bears, deer, wild boar, colourful birds and exotic birds of prey. Snap awe-inspiring photos, learn about the wildlife spotted along the way; and marvel at the majesty of the scenery as you rumble through Yala National Park.
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The drive to and from Yala National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Bundala Park exploration
From the pier, embark your local coach for a short transfer to Bundala. This park spans nearly 40 square miles and has been officially declared a biosphere reserve. Bundala serves as a vital wintering ground for migratory birds, as well as home to some 15,000 shorebirds at any given time between August and April. Add it all up, and there are 149 different bird species that can be spotted in Bundala National Park.
Upon arrival, travel into the wilderness of Bundala National Park on a birdwatching expedition with a professional ornithologist, who knows the territory as no one else, to give you the best chance of an exceptional sightings. You are also likely to spot elephants, deer and wild buffalo during your expedition. Whether an avid birdwatcher or a novice, this tour will offer you a colorful and captivating day.
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Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars. This tour is conducted in English only.
Total : €160
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Udawalawe game drive
Set off on a full-day excursion designed to give you a remarkable look at the social order, intelligence and beauty of elephants in the wild.
From the pier, board your coach for the drive to Udawalawe National Park, where more than 400 wild elephants live safely in their natural habitat. Hop into an off-road vehicle for a 2.5-hour photo safari that is sure to provide an incredible perspective of these majestic creatures.
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The drive to/from Udawalawe National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars. Order of the visits may vary.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Sigiriya, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Drive from the pier to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This ancient rock fortress and palace ruin is surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures. Sigiriya is also renowned for its ancient paintings (commonly known as frescos), which are reminiscent of the Ajanta Caves of India. At the top of a sheltered spiral stairway you will find the famous Sigiriya frescoes, 21 figures of females depicted as rising from the clouds, which are some of the earliest surviving pictorial art in Sri Lanka. Built during the reign of the great controversial King Kasyapa (477 AD – 495 AD), it is one of the 7 world heritage sites in Sri Lanka and definitely a must-see destination in the Cultural Triangle and on the island.
After arriving in Sigiriya walk up the 1200-step ancient rock fortress at your own pace with your guide. Once at the top, your guide will recount stories from the bygone era and give you time to explore this magnificent piece of Sri Lankan history and the breathtaking views from the top of the rock.
Once you have returned to the bottom, drive to a hotel for a relaxing, well deserved lunch before returning to Trincomalee and our ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1 mile (1 600m) of walking with 1200 uneven steps (up and down for total of 2400 steps). We recommend you wear flat comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is only for very fit guests. The drive to/from Sirigiya takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Dambulla, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Depart from the pier and drive to Dambulla to visit the Golden Cave Temple, which is Sri Lanka's largest and best-preserved Temple.
Dating back to the First Century BC, the Golden Temple of Dambulla has been the center of pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus alike for 22 centuries. The Cave monastery, home to Buddhist monks, is covered with exquisite 2,000-year-old murals depicting the life and times of the Lord Buddha. The shrines also house a collection of 157 statues of Buddha in various sizes and poses, including a 15-meter-long reclining Buddha, and vividly coloured frescoes on the walls and ceiling, making this the largest antique painted surface in the world.
The largest and most impressive of the caves, the Temple of the Great King, is 52 meters from one side to another, and 23 meters from the entrance to the back, with the sloping ceiling seven meters at its highest point. The entire surface of the cave is a mosaic of frescoes with so many themes and styles that it is easy to be overwhelmed. The paintings at Dambulla are representative of many different epochs of Sinhalese Buddhist art, although the classical school of Sinhalese painting (which ceased at the end of the 12th century) is not represented. The “New School”, supposedly influenced by the contemporary South Indian Deccan School, is less successful than the earlier indigenous art forms, using brilliant colour schemes in predominately red and yellow. It is not possible to date the Dambulla paintings precisely, since they have been painted over throughout the centuries. Some, however, were originally done by Kandyan artists during the 17th century. It is no wonder the Rock Temple has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the climb, drive to Cinnamon Lodge Hotel for lunch before returning to Trincomalee.
- The drive to/from Dambulla takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 0.5 mile / 700 m of walking on uneven ground. There are 365 steps to reach the caves, or a long pathway with long steps. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Polonnaruwa, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Depart from the quayside and proceed to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa a 3-hour drive from the port.
Polonnaruwa was established as the capital after Anuradhapura had been invaded in the late 10th century. Under King Parakramabu, who ruled in the late 11th century, Polonnaruwa became a magnificent walled city. He built the vast reservoir, Parakrama Samudra (the Sea of Parakrama), still in use today, and ordered the construction of monasteries, temples, palaces, bathing pools and Buddhist statues; all set in a forested park surrounded by moats.
One of the most striking of the many sites is Polonnaruwa’s Gal Vihara, or Rock Shrine. The reclining Lord Buddha is near another statue showing him seated in deep meditation, his throne adorned with lions and thunderbolts. A second seated Lord Buddha, surrounded by other deities including Brahma and Vishnu, is set within a cave cut into the rock face that still bears traces of the frescoes which once decorated the walls. The fourth Gal Vihara statue departs from the conventional poses by depicting the Lord Buddha as a seven-meter tall standing figure with arms crossed. The Quadrangle, with 12 superb buildings standing on a platform in the centre of the ancient city, and the Lankatilleke image house, a vast brick building with a standing Buddha at the rear, are also among the many magnificent remains.
After visiting Polonnaruwa, drive to a hotel for lunch before returning to Trincomalee.
- The drive to/from Polonnaruwa takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 0,5 mile (800m) of walking on uneven ground. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold. Drones are not allowed.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Trincomalee city tour
Trincomalee, or ‘Trinco’ as it is affectionately known, has a rich history and has served as a hub of maritime and trading activities, thanks to its natural harbor. On the way to your first visit, enjoy photo stops at the fisheries harbour to take photographs of the fishing boats, a Buddhist Temple and maybe if you are lucky you will have the opportunity to spot Deer.
Your coach will take you to Fort Frederick, which was a defense site for over a century and now houses the colorful Koneshwaram Temple and Swami Rock from where you will enjoy a beautiful view of the sea.
Afterwards, drive to the fish market to experience the day to day life of fishermen. Enjoy some free time to explore the main street and a few lanes in and around the market area.
Drive to visit the Commonwealth war cemetery located close to the city of Trincomalee before returning to the pier.
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For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold. This tour involves approx. 1 km with some irregular steps. No photo are allowed inside the Koneswaram temple.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
DISCOVER COLOMBO (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Colombo
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will depart for a panoramic tour of city of Colombo followed by cooking experience.
Enjoy a panoramic city tour of Colombo which is the largest city and former administrative capital of Sri Lanka and is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life and remnants of a bygone colonial era. Due to its large harbour and its strategic position along the East-West Sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. However, it was only made the Capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815. The main city is home to a majority of the Sri Lanka's corporate offices, restaurants, and entertainment venues. On this tour you will visit many of the historical, religious, and commercial sites of Colombo including the historic and bustling Fort and Pettah, the elite residential Cinnamon Gardens, the Galle face Green, drive by the newly opened Lotus Tower, Vihara Mahadevi Park and much more.
Then your guide will drop you off at a private studio kitchen. Afterwards you will take a short walk to a local fresh produce market where you will purchase a few groceries needed for the cooking class. You will then return to our studio kitchen for an interactive cooking masterclass on Sri Lankan cuisine, after which you will sit down together and enjoy the meal you have prepared. You will use modern equipment and methods during the class, so that you can easily recreate this meal on your own once you get back home.
Sri Lankan food is flavourful, spicy, colourful, and incredibly delicious. You will crave it when you are back home. So, here’s an opportunity to learn more about Sri Lankan cuisine and to pick up a few great recipes! Learn about local ingredients and how to turn them into delectable dishes, so that you will always have a part of Sri Lanka with you.
Your tour will end at the hotel for check-in.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Colombo
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
Shangri La Hotel benefits from a prime location by the sea that is in the heart of the business district and buzzing social hotspot. A personal tropical sanctuary that is perfect for escaping the city, it offers some of the finest accommodation and a range of restaurants and services.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Deluxe Lake View room at the Shangri La Hotel 5*, Colombo (local standard) or similar, including breakfast.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea
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Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
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Hospitality desk at the hotel the day of your departure.
Your programme does not include:
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Visa fees.
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Personal expenses.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Early check-in.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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We advise you to wear light cotton clothing (avoid synthetic materials) and comfortable shoes. To visit temples, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees.) We suggest bringing along a pair of thick socks as the pavement will be hot.
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We recommend that you drink bottled water and avoid ice.
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Official check-in is at 14: 00.
Contact of your hotel:
Shangri La Hotel
2, 1 Colombo - Galle - Hambantota - Wellawaya Hwy, Colombo 00200, Sri Lanka
Telephone : +94 117 888 288
Duration and order of the visits may vary. (si pertinent) To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $600
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.THE SRI LANKA'S HILL COUNTRY (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Colombo/Nuwara Eliya
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will leave for Nuwara Eliya for an approximate travel time of 5 hours.
Misty steep roads, twisting through lush green blankets of tea bushes in a cool climate, remind visitors that they are within the range of the renowned British colonial retreat, Nuwara Eliya. Augmented by an English countryside atmosphere, the city of light - once governed by English & Scottish planters - is still studded with colonial bungalows, hedgerows & one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the world. A hike through the green grass and red-brick walls should present breathtaking views of a buzzing countryside hamlet.
Arrive and check in at the hotel for lunch. Rest of the day to be spent at leisure.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 2 - Nuwara Eliya
Breakfast and day at leisure to feel the unique atmosphere of Nuwara Eliya a beautiful mountain station in Sri Lanka known for its incredible scenery and abundant tea plantations.
Sometimes referred to as “Little England’, the city is well-kept and neat and features British-style red-brick walls, mock-Tudor half-timbering, and a very English country club. The surrounding areas offer breathtaking views of valleys, meadows, mountains, and greenery, and most importantly a wonderful break from the heat and humidity of the coast. Tea Estates, waterfalls, and mountains complete the picture. Visitors can take guided tours of the tea plantations, meander through the roses, take a picturesque walk to the ‘Lovers’ Leap’ waterfall, and meander through orchids and giant cypresses at the Hakgala Gardens. Other highlights include the Seetha Amman and Nuwara Eliya Buddhist Temples and the Galway's Land National Park.
Lunch will be served at the hotel.
During the afternoon, enjoy High tea at the hotel by contemplating the beautiful surrounding of the hotel.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Optionnal activity (with fees):
Leave early morning with packed breakfast to Horton Plains for a trekking excursion in the Horton Plains National Park.
The Horton Plains National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site & Eco-tourism hideout in the heart of the isle, is a beautiful Sri Lankan highland plateau set at an elevation of 2100 to 2300 metres.
The park consists of cloud forests and montane grasslands. Around 750 plant species have been observed here. These include dwarf bamboo species, ferns, lichens, and orchids.
Visitors can also view fauna such as birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals which include deer, toque macaques, purple-faced langur, long-clawed shrews, mongoose, Sri Lankan leopards, and giant squirrels.
Travel Distance: 30 km
Approximate travel time: 1 ½ Hrs
Approximate Excursion Time: 4 Hrs
Day 3 - Nuwara Eliya/Kandy
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and proceed to Kandy, enroute visiting a tea plantation (about 15-minute drive)
Ceylon tea is perhaps the most well-known and famous tea in the world. As the most important export of Sri Lanka, we'll take you behind the scenes of this world-renowned product. You'll meet the people who pick it, learn about their lives, walk through the tea plantations, visit a processing factory, and enjoy a cup straight from where it's made.
Then leave Nuwara Eliya to reach Kandy (approximate travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes).
The second major city in Sri Lanka (the other being Colombo) lies in the midst of the Kandy Plateau, an area of tropical tea plantations. A prominent feature is Kandy Lake, to the north of which lies the golden-roofed Temple of The Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an important place for Buddhist worship, as it is said to house a tooth relic of Buddha.
Arrive in Kandy. Lunch at a local restaurant. Visit the temple of the tooth relic and enjoy a brief tour of the beautiful Kandy town.
Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, which houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. Kandy was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a UNESCO world heritage site partly due to the temple.
Experience an ancient Kandyan legacy engraved around its crown jewel, the temple of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha.
A stroll across this small lakeside town - cradled among the misty hills - will feature the Kandy City Centre - bundled with latest and world class brands, bazaar, an arts & crafts centre, as well as a gem museum & lapidary. Drive towards Victoria Golf Course, undoubtedly one of the best golf courses in the world for a sweep blended with class and style. Or walk in colour as you glide through fresh fruits and vegetables in the Kandy market.
Also, fine tune your evening by stepping to the beat of traditional music & drumming amplified by a cultural show enhancing the rich and vibrant culture of the Wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka. (cultural show 45 minutes approximately.)
Check in at the hotel. Rest of the evening to be spent at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel in Kandy.
Day 4 – Kandy/Negombo
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and leave for Colombo (approximate travel time: 3 hours 45 minutes).
Sri Lanka’s seaside metropolis of Colombo offers a laid-back atmosphere coupled with a mixture of crumbling colonial buildings and glinting skyscrapers.
Arrive in Colombo and take your lunch at a local restaurant.
Than enjoy a panoramic city tour of Colombo which is the largest city and former administrative capital of Sri Lanka and is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life and remnants of a bygone colonial era. Due to its large harbour and its strategic position along the East-West Sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. However, it was only made the Capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815. The main city is home to a majority of the Sri Lanka’s corporate offices, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
During this tour you will visit many of the historical, religious, and commercial sites of Colombo including the historic and bustling Fort and Pettah, the elite residential Cinnamon Gardens, the Galle face Green, drive by the newly opened Lotus Tower, Viharamahadevi Park and much more.
After this orientation tour of Colombo city continue your journey to the town of Negombo for an overnight stay (approximate travel time: 45 minutes).
Arrive in Negombo and enjoy short tour of the town.
Negombo is a bustling fishing town on the west coast of Sri Lanka (and close to the Bandaranaike International Airport), had a rather turbulent colonial history involving the Dutch, Portuguese, and British due to the cinnamon trade. In fact, the wild cinnamon that grew in the region was described as ‘the very best in the universe as well as the most abundant. The remnants of this colonial period remain with the strong Catholic Church influence in the town. The Negombo Lagoon and the many canals offer superb birdwatching, the town’s Old Quarter is worth a visit, and the community is friendly and welcoming.
Then check in at your hotel in Negombo for a well-deserved rest form the long journey.
Overnight at the hotel in Negombo.
Day 5 - Negombo/ Colombo Airport
After breakfast and check-out, spend time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotels:
Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya offers guests a luxurious stay in Nuwara Eliya. The hotel boasts a selection of elegantly designed rooms and suites, all equipped with Wi-Fi, hairdryers, tea/coffee-making facilities, and minibars. After a relaxing night, guests can start the morning with a delicious breakfast served on-site. Other services and facilities include a garden, a gym, a kids’ play area, a restaurant, laundry services, a spa, and an indoor heated swimming pool.
Earl’s Regency is one of finest Sri Lankan hotels of international standards in and around Kandy. Earl's Regency, 5 km away from the city of Kandy in the suburbs of Tennekumbura, is built in breathtaking mountainous countryside landscape in the immediate vicinity across Tennekumbura Bridge over the Mahaweli River. Overlooking Mahaweli River and mountain ranges, Earl's Regency Hotel is a perfect hideaway to enjoy holidays in the hills and visit numerous historical and cultural sites in and around Kandy. The hotel consists of the deluxe rooms, spa and the garden restaurant, reception area, restaurant, bar, and executive suites.
Heritance Negombo let you the experience the charm of the island’s West Coast featuring from chic living spaces by the shore to indulgent spa therapies that revive and restore. Heritance is a contemporary experience of refreshing culture, effortless luxury, and inspiring locations. Heritance is a way of life that embraces nature and tradition. It is the delicate balance between yesterday and tomorrow. A truly Sri Lankan desire to make sure that everything is always just the way you like it.
Higher categories of rooms are available depending on availability and on a supplemental basis. Contact your travel agent for further details.
Your programme includes:
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2-night accommodation in Deluxe room at the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
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1-night accommodation in Deluxe room at the Earl's Regency Hotel Kandy 4* local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
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1-night accommodation in a Deluxe room at the hotel Heritance Negombo 5*, local standards (or similar) including half-board.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals: bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 local glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea.
-
Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide.
-
Hospitality desk at the hotel the day of departure.
Your programme does not include:
-
Visa fees if necessary.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Early check-in and late check-out.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
-
Optional activities.
-
Lunch and dinner on day 5.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility difficulties. Walking conditions on this tour are mostly flat and paved, however, there may be some steps and uneven surfaces to negotiate at times. Guests who participate on this tour must be able to walk at least short distances and/or climb a few steps. Guides will identify steps and areas of uneven terrain as required.
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This programme is not recommended for people with back pain or motion sickness due to the duration of transfers by coach.
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The optionnal activty can be booked only by guests who have a good physical shape and able to walk on uneven ground.
-
We recommend that you drink bottled water and avoid ice.
-
For this programme, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
- Official check-in at 2.00 p.m. Official check-out at noon.
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Late check-out after noon at Heritance Negombo might be available depending on availability and on a supplemental basis.
Contact of your hotels:
Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka.
Earl's Regency Hotel
Tennekumbura, Kandy, 20000, Sri Lanka
Heritance Negombo
175, Lewis Place, Negombo, Sri Lanka
Phone number: (+94) 31 7431 431
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To learn your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $1,730
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.