Guest Speaker 
Free solo supplement 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Treasures of India
Mumbai (ex Bombay) - Colombo
Dates:
30/1/2024
to
8/2/2024
days
nights on board
With featured guest Christian Makarian, French author and journalist.
PONANT invites you to discover the wonders of India and Sri Lanka, during a 10-day cruise from Mumbai to Colombo. Let yourself fall under the spell of these eastern lands bordered by the Indian Ocean and influenced by Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
You will board Le Jacques-Cartier in Mumbai, India’s cultural and economic capital. Make sure you visit the Elephanta Caves, a Hindu sanctuary on an island off the coast, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station (formerly known as Victoria Terminus), a remarkable example of Victorian neo-gothic architecture: both sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Then, you will discover Goa, a former colony of the Portuguese Indies. Goa is prized for its beaches and its rich cultural heritage, in particular a collection of late 16th-century churches and convents, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Your ship will then arrive in Kerala, on Malabar Coast, in south-western India. From Cochin, a former royal town where the air is rich with the aroma of cardamom and cloves, this port of call will also be the opportunity to discover, aboard traditional boats, the fishing villages settled along the banks of the “backwaters”, a network of lakes and canals that criss-cross the lush landscapes of Kerala. Then you will set sail towards Trivandrum, where you will have the opportunity to visit Padmanabhapuram Palace, one of the finest examples of traditional Kerala architecture.
In Galle, you will be able to admire the fortifications of the old town, testimony to its Portuguese and Dutch heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Finally, Le Jacques-Cartier will call at Colombo, the Sri Lankan capital located at the crossroads of the sea trade between Europe and Asia.
Ref : EX300124
Your itinerary
With featured guest Christian Makarian, French author and journalist. Discover cultural and natural treasures of Sri Lanka and India. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the churches and convents of Goa, the...
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Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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LE PAUL GAUGUIN
- New
L'AUSTRAL
11/3/2024 to the 26/3/2024
L'AUSTRAL
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
*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.
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
- Dyptique 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
Christian Makarian
Christian Makarian joined the French weekly L’Express in 1999 where he was responsible for special reports on cultural issues, interviews and debates. He was deputy managing editor of the magazine, where he wrote a weekly editorial on foreign politic for 15 years.
He is the author of several books – including Marie (Lattès), translated into five languages, Le choc Jésus – Mahomet (Lattès-CNRS Éditions) and Pascal dans sa chambre, méditation sur le désordre planétaire (Cerf Editions, September 2020) – and appears regularly on radio and television, and writes an international column on LCI.
Language spoken: French, English
Photo credit: Éric Garault
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
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
- With featured guest Christian Makarian, French author and journalist.
- Discover cultural and natural treasures of Sri Lanka and India.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the churches and convents of Goa, the Elephanta Caves and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station (formerly known as Victoria Terminus) in Mumbai; and in Sri Lanka, the old town of Galle and its fortifications.
- Overnight in Cochin: discover Kerala’s lush landscapes during an excursion in the “backwaters”: rivers edged with palm trees, rice paddies, fishing villages.
- Overnight in Mumbai: visit of the city, its architectural heritage, the Elephanta Caves and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum.
- Before your cruise: possibility of discovering Mumbai.
- After your cruise, possibility of visiting the temples of Colombo.
Ports of Call & Excursions
30 January 2024 31 January 2024 - Mumbai (ex Bombay)
Embarkation 30/1/2024 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 31/1/2024 at 6:30 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.
1 February 2024 - At sea
Arrival 1/2/2024
Departure 1/2/2024
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.
2 February 2024 - Marmugao (Goa)
Arrival 2/2/2024 early morning
Departure 2/2/2024 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.
3 February 2024 - At sea
Arrival 3/2/2024
Departure 3/2/2024
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.
4 February 2024 5 February 2024 - Cochin
Arrival 4/2/2024 early morning
Departure 5/2/2024 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.
6 February 2024 - Trivandrum
Arrival 6/2/2024 early morning
Departure 6/2/2024 early afternoon
Capital of the State of Kerala, Trivandrum boasts a rich and colourful past. Constructed on seven hills, the “green city of India”, as Gandhi called it, is home to sumptuous Victorian buildings, vestiges of British colonisation. You will also be able to admire superb examples of traditional architecture, such as Padmanabhapuram Palace. A former residence of Kerala princes, this elegant wooden palace from the 16th century is composed of three levels evoking the shape of a Far Eastern pagoda. Entering and roaming its maze of galleries, halls and corridors is like plunging into the lavish life of the Travancore kings.
7 February 2024 - Galle
Arrival 7/2/2024 midday
Departure 7/2/2024 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.
8 February 2024 - Colombo
Arrival 8/2/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 8/2/2024 at 7:00 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...
Caves of Elephantas
From the pier, board your coach to visit the Gateway of India, the city’s most widely recognised landmark. Built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the archway was originally conceived as an entry point for people arriving on steamers from England. Today, the gateway serves as a launching point for your own exploration of the Elephanta Temple. Embark aboard a motor boat and enjoy the approximately one hour and thirty-minute cruise to Elephanta Island.
More than a thousand years ago, Hindu craftsmen carved columns and sculptures out of a series of caves, located on an island off the shores of Mumbai. They created a temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Portuguese named the island Elephanta, after the discovery of a large statue of an elephant, near the spot where they docked their ships.
From the jetty you will walk approximately 15 minutes to the base of the long stairway which leads to the caves. Enter the temple and discover a magnificent sculpture of Shiva as Nataraj, showing an enraptured expression as he removes the veil of ignorance. The most outstanding sculpture is a bust of Trimurti: the three-faced Shiva representing the Hindu trinity, Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. In other panels, Shiva is depicted as servant of humanity as he brought the River Ganges to Earth. At his most fearsome, he crushed the demon of Andhaka.
Finally, re-board your motorboat for your way back to Mumbai.
- This tour involves 0.6 miles (1km) of walking on uneven, slippery ground with approximately 125 long steps each way. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun and from mosquitoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Boats are non-air conditioned but are covered. Guests are advised to mind their belongings at all times and not carry large denominations of money. Please note that transfer durations are calculated on the basis of fluid traffic and Mumbai is a crowded city. It is likely that these schedules may vary.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
Marvels of Mumbai
From the pier, embark on an interesting city tour of the former Bombay. Start with the city’s most famous landmark—the Gateway of India. This Indo-Saracenic archway was built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Continue to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST, previously known as Victoria Terminus), built during Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee year. It is an extraordinary conglomeration of domes, spires, Corinthian columns and minarets. The first train in India left from this station in 1853. Nowadays, half a million commuters pass through the station every day.
Next, stop at Mani Bhavan, Mahatma Gandhi’s Bombay base from 1917 to 1934. This building is now a museum and memorial to the famous leader of non-violent non-cooperation. The room he slept in has remained unchanged and still contains his bed and many of his personal possessions. Then, you will drive to Dhobi Ghat where you can take advantage of a unique and colourful photo opportunity - laundry from all over Mumbai is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled and beaten.
You will also visit the Prince of Wales Museum (now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya) with its white Mughal-style dome. Inside, you will find displays of jade, Mughal Empire weapons, and 3rd-century BC terra cotta figures from Gandhara, a former colony of Alexander the Great. However, the museum’s main attraction is a superb collection of Indian paintings, illustrated manuscripts and exquisite miniatures.
After the visit, drive back to the pier.
- This tour involves a 0.6-mile (1km) walk on uneven ground with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and clothes and protect yourself from the sun and from mosquitoes. Guests are advised to mind their belongings at all times and not carry large denominations of money. Order of visits may change. Duration of the tour may vary due to traffic/other unforeseen circumstances.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €140
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €170
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
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 : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kuthiramalika Palace & Napier Museum
Be introduced to Trivandrum, the easy-going and energetic capital of Kerala, filled with Victorian-style buildings, major art museums and 200-year-old Travancore maharaja palaces. Your tour includes the visits of the following sights (order of the visits may vary to avoid overcrowding):
Kuthiramalika Palace, built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal of Travancore. During your visit, marvel at its collections of the royal family such as wood carvings, paintings and various priceless artwork.
Napier Museum, built in the 19th century, it has its own natural air-conditioning system. It contains a host of historical artefacts including bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings.
Sree Chitra Art Gallery, hosting a collection of century-old and original famous paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, and exquisite works from various art schools in India.
Sree Padmanabaswami Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. You will only see the temple from the pathway, as non-Hindus are not allowed within the courtyard.
Chalai Market is an old shopping area, with a market spread through a narrow 2 km (1.2 mi) road.
- This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. You will be asked to remove your shoes to enter the art gallery and palace.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Markets of Trivandrum
Thiruvananthapuram, being the capital of Kerala state, provides a beautiful variety of local markets, providing all products that locals need and promoting the impressive work of craftsmen. It is also a great opportunity to discover the Keralaís traditional attires.
From the pier, board your local coach for a short transfer to Connemara market. From here, follow your guide on the narrows alleys to learn more this historical market established in 1857. Also known as Palayam market, this shopping hub is very appreciated by locals as they can find all the cheap household items and food needed. A perfect visit to immerse in the Indian daily life.
Then, get back to your coach to reach the Kanakakunnu Palace for a photostop.
Your next stop is Chalai Bazaar (Chala Market), an old shopping area in Thiruvananthapuram.The market is spread through the narrow 2 km road connecting Killippalam and East Fort. Here you can find almost every commodity, from fruits and vegetables, gold and silver to paint and hardware. A number of good eateries also dot the area. The 2 km stretch is one of the busiest shopping streets in Kerala. Your guide will take you around the market to discover its treasures.
Finally, board your local coach for your transfer back to the pier.
-
This tous involves walking on mostly flat ground, with dust. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Guests are advised to mind their belongings at all times and not to carry large denominations of money. Order of visits may change due to traffic jam. This tour is only conducted in English.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Jacques-Cartier
In keeping with the philosophy of PONANT and the PONANT EXPLORERS, Le Jacques-Cartier is a modern ship with slender, tapered lines, it is environmentally friendly and equipped with innovative technology.
Tastefully decorated, Le Jacques-Cartier reflects the universe so dear to PONANT, with its light tones and open-to-the-sea design providing soft light and luminosity at every instant of the day. Its ethnic chic ambiance pays homage to the destinations we visit.
Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye offers a unique experience: the opportunity to enjoy undersea views and the sounds of the marine world whilst sharing a glass together.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
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.
Free solo supplement
FREE SOLO SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TRANSFER FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE PIER OF MUMBAI
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Mumbai
Meet at Mumbai airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT. A VIP assistance service will guide you from your flight’s arrival terminal to the meeting point with our local representative.
You will depart the airport by coach and be directly taken to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
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Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
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VIP assistance at Mumbai airport upon your arrival.
Your programme does not include:
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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 : AU$400
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
THE JEWELS OF INDIA: DELHI, AGRA AND JAIPUR (4 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). A VIP assistance service will ensure a smooth arrival from the aerobridge until the exit of the airport.
You will be transferred to your hotel.
Capital to seven different cultures over the course of its history, New Delhi is a fascinating fusion of them all. The art and architecture of the city reflects its ancient and multifaceted heritage. A Hindu fortress, a Mughal tomb, an Islamic minaret and mosque and a Bahai temple give an idea of the cultural richness of the city.
Check-in your room. Spend the remainder of the day and evening at leisure before dinner is served at the hotel.
Day 2 - New Delhi/Agra
Breakfast and check out.
Depart your hotel for a panoramic drive around tour of New Delhi, passing through the majestic boulevards of the Indian capital city designed by the British architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1920. Lutyens' Delhi includes the grand government buildings and parliament house, the India gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan- the presidential palace. Continue your drive to Agra covering 200 kms in approximately 4.5-hour.
Arrival at Agra for lunch in a local restaurant.
Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire - giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat {seat of the emperor}. Today, a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices of red sandstone and white marble, narrow allies and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals still retains.
Your afternoon tour will take you first to Agra Fort. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD and is predominantly made of red sandstone. The vast halls echo the voices of a bygone era and transport the visitor back through the passage of time.
Then, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Check-in in your room and time at leisure.
Dinner at your hotel.
Day 3 - Agra/Jaipur
Start your day with an early morning visit to explore the iconic Taj Mahal and discover this architectural wonder at sunrise, in a different light.
Commissioned by Moghul 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. The glory of this monument is strangely undiminished by the crowds of tourists who visit each day, as small and insignificant as ants in the face of this immense and captivating monument. Throughout the day its colour changes, from soft grey and yellow to pearly cream and dazzling white. This play of light is an important decorative device, symbolically implying the presence of Allah, who is never represented in anthropomorphic form.
Then, you will return to the hotel for having breakfast and rest.
After check-out and lunch, you will be taken to Agra Railway Station to embark on board the train to Jaipur. You will experience a train ride of approximately 4-hour in a separate and exclusive coach that will be of Indian standards. As your main luggage will be transported by bus, it is recommended that you carry a small travel bag for this train journey.
Upon arrival in Jaipur, transfer to your hotel.
"The City of Victory", was first intended to be "Sawai Jaipur", named after the boy Prince who commissioned it - Maharaja Jai Singh II - a warrior, astronomer and politician who reigned over the Mughals from 1699 to 1743. Today's Jaipur is pink and visually described as the city shaded with the autumn colours of a sunset. Although originally the walls were render-set and pigmented the colour of red sandstone, Jaipur's universal coat of pink only came in 1876 to coincide with the visit of the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). Almost the entire city was given a coat of pink paint, thus giving it the name "The Pink City".
Check-in followed by time at leisure.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 4 - Jaipur
After breakfast, you will embark on for a curated walking tour on Water Heritage of Indian culture at Nahargarh Fort. En route, enjoy a photo stop at Hawa Mahal, also known as the "Palace of the Winds." This beautiful façade is probably the most photographed in Jaipur, with its ornately carved windows designed so the ladies of the palace could look out onto the streets unobserved.
Arrive at Nahargarh parking, proceed by jeep to the fort area.
In these 2 hours storytelling tour explore ancient water structures – channels, roman aqueducts, stepwells, storage reservoirs and learn about their purpose, architecture, and history. The tour is sprinkled with facts, anecdotes and done by a expert guide, who has spent a decade and a half working in the sustainability space, and started Heritage Water Walks to showcase a cultural phenomenon of the desert state of Rajasthan. Though a desert, Rajasthan is a water civilization for which traditions & beliefs, textiles, art, food, culture, valour, would not exist in its absence.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Thereafter, proceed to City Palace to witness the Maharaja’s private collection of textiles and armory.
You’ll then continue to Albert Hall by a E-rickshaw for a photo stop. Albert Hall gets its name from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the inspiration for its design. The exquisitely built Albert Hall is housed in the centre of Ram Niwas Garden. Sir Swinton Jacob conceptualised and designed it, using styles from the Indo-Saracenic architecture, and the Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone of the building in 1876.
Possibility during this afternoon to see the craftsman in action, working on textiles and other handicraft items.
Finally, board your coach and return to your hotel.
Before dinner is served, enjoy a Rajasthani folk dance performance inspired by the spirit of the desert.
Day 5 - Jaipur/Mumbai
Following an early breakfast and check-out, transfer to airport for the morning flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, you will be taken to a local restaurant for lunch.
After lunch, you will depart for a panoramic drive around Mumbai city highlights. You will pass by the Gateway of India Indo-Saracenic archway built in 1911, the Victoria Terminus railway station built during Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee year, the University established in 1857 and the Clock tower.
The tour will end at the port to embark aboard your ship.
Your hotels:
The Oberoi, New Delhi is an urban retreat with a central place overlooking Delhi Golf course and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun's Tomb. Designed as a contemporary interpretation of Sir Edward Lutyen's architecture, this five-star hotel is an incomparable landmark of Oberoi reputation. Here legendary service meets modernity. This is reflected in the rooms careful appointed. The restaurants offer international to local tastes and from the rooftop open air bar, you can enjoy one of the best panoramic city view.
Located just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra is a five-star hotel inspired by the heritage and design of Mughal palaces. All rooms offer unrestricted views of Taj Mahal. With warm hospitality, exquisite restaurants, elegant and full appointed rooms, this five-star hotel ensure an unforgettable experience.
Built in 1745, the Jai Mahal Palace 5* is a stunning piece of Rajasthan's heritage, set amidst 18 acres of landscaped gardens. It has been the residence of three Prime Ministers of the princely state of Jaipur. It is now a five-star hotel located in the heart of the Pink City. The 100 rooms and suites are equipped with all modern-day comforts.
Higher categories of rooms are available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel agent for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Deluxe room at the Oberoi Hotel, New Delhi, local standard (or similar) including breakfast.
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1-night accommodation in Premiere room at the Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, local standard (or similar) including breakfast.
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2-nights'accommodation in Luxury room at the Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur, local standard (or similar) including breakfast.
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Meals as mentioned on the programme.
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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.
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Transfers, visits, activities, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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Porterage at hotels and airports.
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Services of local English-speaking guides.
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VIP assistance at Delhi international airport upon your arrival.
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Train journey Agra-Jaipur by exclusive AC coach, local standard.
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A domestic flight in economy class: Jaipur-Mumbai.
Your programme does not include:
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Early check-in in room.
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Visa fees.
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Tips for the drivers and local guides.
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Overweight baggage.
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Personal expenses.
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Meals, drinks, and all services not mentioned in the programme.
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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This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. This tour involves walking city tours on mostly flat, uneven surface.
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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. -
We advise you to pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes.
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To visit temples, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees).
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The train experience between Agra and Jaipur is done on board an exclusive coach but the train department comes under government of India and we cannot control the allotment of this coach which is done on the day of travel. This experience on regular train journey will give you an Indian train journey experience so please keep in mind that the standard of the train cannot be compared with your local norms.
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We recommend packing small bag for your train ride since the main luggage is transported in the bus from Agra to Jaipur by road and must be prepared in advance before the bus departure.
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Baggage allowance for the flight Jaipur-Mumbai: 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.
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All the timings mentioned in the description are for reference only. The same is subject to change on the day of executing the programme.
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Due to the traffic conditions, the itinerary might be changed and rearranged consequently if time permitting.
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On Republic Day (on January 26th) is a dry day, no alcohol will be served. Only non-alcoholic beverages will be served.
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The Agra fort visit involves a walk of 750 meters on uneven surface and about 10 steps.
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The Taj Mahal visit involves a walk of about 750 metres on flat marble ground with about 25 steps.
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The Heritage Walk visit involves a walk of about 1000 metres on uneven surface.
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The visit of City Palace involves a walk of about 500 metres on some flat and uneven surface with about 30 steps.
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 Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Jacob Road, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006 India
Telephone: + 91 141 222 3636
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 : AU$6,080
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Caves of Elephantas
From the pier, board your coach to visit the Gateway of India, the city’s most widely recognised landmark. Built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the archway was originally conceived as an entry point for people arriving on steamers from England. Today, the gateway serves as a launching point for your own exploration of the Elephanta Temple. Embark aboard a motor boat and enjoy the approximately one hour and thirty-minute cruise to Elephanta Island.
More than a thousand years ago, Hindu craftsmen carved columns and sculptures out of a series of caves, located on an island off the shores of Mumbai. They created a temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Portuguese named the island Elephanta, after the discovery of a large statue of an elephant, near the spot where they docked their ships.
From the jetty you will walk approximately 15 minutes to the base of the long stairway which leads to the caves. Enter the temple and discover a magnificent sculpture of Shiva as Nataraj, showing an enraptured expression as he removes the veil of ignorance. The most outstanding sculpture is a bust of Trimurti: the three-faced Shiva representing the Hindu trinity, Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. In other panels, Shiva is depicted as servant of humanity as he brought the River Ganges to Earth. At his most fearsome, he crushed the demon of Andhaka.
Finally, re-board your motorboat for your way back to Mumbai.
- This tour involves 0.6 miles (1km) of walking on uneven, slippery ground with approximately 125 long steps each way. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun and from mosquitoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Boats are non-air conditioned but are covered. Guests are advised to mind their belongings at all times and not carry large denominations of money. Please note that transfer durations are calculated on the basis of fluid traffic and Mumbai is a crowded city. It is likely that these schedules may vary.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
Marvels of Mumbai
From the pier, embark on an interesting city tour of the former Bombay. Start with the city’s most famous landmark—the Gateway of India. This Indo-Saracenic archway was built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Continue to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST, previously known as Victoria Terminus), built during Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee year. It is an extraordinary conglomeration of domes, spires, Corinthian columns and minarets. The first train in India left from this station in 1853. Nowadays, half a million commuters pass through the station every day.
Next, stop at Mani Bhavan, Mahatma Gandhi’s Bombay base from 1917 to 1934. This building is now a museum and memorial to the famous leader of non-violent non-cooperation. The room he slept in has remained unchanged and still contains his bed and many of his personal possessions. Then, you will drive to Dhobi Ghat where you can take advantage of a unique and colourful photo opportunity - laundry from all over Mumbai is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled and beaten.
You will also visit the Prince of Wales Museum (now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya) with its white Mughal-style dome. Inside, you will find displays of jade, Mughal Empire weapons, and 3rd-century BC terra cotta figures from Gandhara, a former colony of Alexander the Great. However, the museum’s main attraction is a superb collection of Indian paintings, illustrated manuscripts and exquisite miniatures.
After the visit, drive back to the pier.
- This tour involves a 0.6-mile (1km) walk on uneven ground with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and clothes and protect yourself from the sun and from mosquitoes. Guests are advised to mind their belongings at all times and not carry large denominations of money. Order of visits may change. Duration of the tour may vary due to traffic/other unforeseen circumstances.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €140
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €170
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
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 : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kuthiramalika Palace & Napier Museum
Be introduced to Trivandrum, the easy-going and energetic capital of Kerala, filled with Victorian-style buildings, major art museums and 200-year-old Travancore maharaja palaces. Your tour includes the visits of the following sights (order of the visits may vary to avoid overcrowding):
Kuthiramalika Palace, built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal of Travancore. During your visit, marvel at its collections of the royal family such as wood carvings, paintings and various priceless artwork.
Napier Museum, built in the 19th century, it has its own natural air-conditioning system. It contains a host of historical artefacts including bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings.
Sree Chitra Art Gallery, hosting a collection of century-old and original famous paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, and exquisite works from various art schools in India.
Sree Padmanabaswami Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. You will only see the temple from the pathway, as non-Hindus are not allowed within the courtyard.
Chalai Market is an old shopping area, with a market spread through a narrow 2 km (1.2 mi) road.
- This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) of walking. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. You will be asked to remove your shoes to enter the art gallery and palace.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Markets of Trivandrum
Thiruvananthapuram, being the capital of Kerala state, provides a beautiful variety of local markets, providing all products that locals need and promoting the impressive work of craftsmen. It is also a great opportunity to discover the Keralaís traditional attires.
From the pier, board your local coach for a short transfer to Connemara market. From here, follow your guide on the narrows alleys to learn more this historical market established in 1857. Also known as Palayam market, this shopping hub is very appreciated by locals as they can find all the cheap household items and food needed. A perfect visit to immerse in the Indian daily life.
Then, get back to your coach to reach the Kanakakunnu Palace for a photostop.
Your next stop is Chalai Bazaar (Chala Market), an old shopping area in Thiruvananthapuram.The market is spread through the narrow 2 km road connecting Killippalam and East Fort. Here you can find almost every commodity, from fruits and vegetables, gold and silver to paint and hardware. A number of good eateries also dot the area. The 2 km stretch is one of the busiest shopping streets in Kerala. Your guide will take you around the market to discover its treasures.
Finally, board your local coach for your transfer back to the pier.
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This tous involves walking on mostly flat ground, with dust. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Guests are advised to mind their belongings at all times and not to carry large denominations of money. Order of visits may change due to traffic jam. This tour is only conducted in English.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
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.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
PANORAMIC TOUR OF COLOMBO WITH LUNCH
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Colombo
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will start a panoramic tour by coach of the city of Colombo, Sri Lanka's commercial capital and largest city, a blend of both historic value and modern vibes. Dating back over 600 years, Colombo was a trading hub for sea merchants and colonial rulers. One of the first things you will notice on your tour is how diverse the city has become. Buddhist temples, Hindu temples, mosques, and churches reflect the various beliefs practised all over the island and the beautiful facades of the old, colonial buildings contrast with the modern but elegant shopping arcades that have been developed inside.
Your panoramic tour will take you passing many highlights such as the National Museum, the Buddhist temples of Gangarama & the Seema Malakaya, the Galle Face Gree and the Old Parliemt Complex. A photo stop will be made at the Independance Square.
You will have lunch in a local restaurant, and then, you will proceed to Ashokaramaya Buddhist Temple where you will learn more about how Puja's offering ritual takes place.
Depending on time, you could enjoy a 30 minute stop on the way to the airport, to see the artists selling their paintings on a road in a kind of a local art gallery is located.
You will be transferred to the airport, in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
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Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
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Lunch with beverage package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 local glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea).
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Visa fees if necessary.
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Dinner.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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We strongly recommend to bring any medication required in hand luggage.
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We advise you to wear light cotton clothing (avoid synthetic materials), sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
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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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A moderate amount of activity is involved with this tour
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We recommend that you drink bottled water and avoid ice.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents. In the event of schedule changes of PONANT's selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : AU$260
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
UNESCO HERITAGE SITES OF SRI LANKA (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of three days to discover Sri Lanka, once called by sailors "the Paradise Island" because of its natural resources. Visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, immerse yourself in the Sri Lankan culture and enjoy your stay in a beautiful resort. This programme will be a pleasant conclusion to your cruise.
Day 1 – Colombo/Kandalama/Dambulla
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will depart to Kandalama (approximately a five-hour drive).
Enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant, Heritance Kandalama, before checking-in to your room.
Then, depart from the hotel to reach Dambulla caves after a 30-minute drive.
The Golden Temple of Dambulla has been the centre of pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus alike for 22 centuries. Dating back to the first Century BC, Dambulla is a vast cave complex, converted into a rock temple, which is still regarded today as one of the most important Buddhist monasteries. Covering the rock ceiling is the largest collection of paintings in Sri Lanka within a cave temple, and surrounding you is the highest number of Buddha statues found in one single place. As you wander through the temple, notice the serenity and the exceedingly well-preserved nature of the place. It is no wonder the Rock Temple has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the visit, head back to your hotel.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 2 - Kandalama/Polonnaruwa/Habarana/Kandalama
After breakfast, you will depart the hotel in the morning to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa (approximately a 90-minute drive).
An interesting blend of archaeological monuments, 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-metre-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.
Then, you will reach a rural village. You will enjoy a cooking demonstration of a traditional curry before lunch will be served.
After this local culture experience, you will continue onwards to Habarana to visit a National Park in the area. There are three main parks in the area famous for its high density of Elephants. You will be taken to visit one of the parks depending on the Elephant movements (Hurulu Eco Park or Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks).
Then, you will go back to your hotel.
The end of the day can be spent at your leisure depending on time.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 - Kandalama/Negombo
After breakfast, take your time to relax in the quiet atmosphere of your hotel, Heritance Kandalama.
Or if you are fit enough, you will have the possibility to book an optional activity and depart in the early morning towards Sigiriya.
Check-out is at noon, followed by lunch at the hotel.
After lunch, you will leave Heritance Kandalama to reach Negombo, an old fishing village with pretty palm-fringed beaches.
After approximately a 4-hour drive, you will arrive at the hotel Heritance Negombo.
Check-in to your room.
Before the dinner served at the hotel, enjoy a cultural show including Sri Lankan traditional dancing and drumming acts.
Optional activity: Visit of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sigiriya is an enormous rock boulder rising 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. Incredibly, the rock fortress was built by King Kassyapa I in the 5th century and served as a royal citadel for more than 18 years, something that seems more astonishing with every step you climb. Walk up the 1200-step ancient rock fortress at your own pace with your guide. Pause occasionally during your ascent to admire the mirror wall, the sigiri graffiti, the famous Sigiriya frescoes and the great lion paws. Upon reaching the summit, you will immediately see that it was worth the effort. Wander through the ruins and admire the courage and work it must have taken to build this palace all those years ago – you will even find a fully functional swimming pool up there. Aside from the ruins, with the unparalleled 360-degree view of the surrounding jungle and hills, it will not just be the climb that takes your breath away. 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.
Afterwards, drive back to the hotel.
Day 4 – Negombo/Colombo
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:
Located in the heart of Sri Lanka's cultural triangle, the Heritance Kandalama Hotel 5* is a contemporary architectural wonder hand designed by Geoffrey Bawa, a famous Sri Lankan architect. Nestled on the hills, this hotel is built in harmony with the lush jungle. Its unique situation offers beautiful views over the Kandalama Lake and the rock of Sigiriya. Chic and minimalist, rooms have a bathroom with glass walls that allow guests to admire the natural landscape. During your time at leisure, you can enjoy its three swimming pools. You can also indulge yourself with a gourmet stopover in one of its bars and restaurants, as well as a relaxing break at the spa (additional charge and subject to availability).
Located in the buzzing beachside of Negombo, Heritance Negombo 5* is a contemporary five-star resort with modern amenities. Retire to your room for a comfortable break or enjoy some leisurely time viewing the ocean or around the swimming pool. Experience Sri Lankan hospitality and indulge yourself at the restaurant with local flavours during your island getaway.
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 a Deluxe room at the hotel Heritance Kandalama 5*, local standards (or similar) including half-board.
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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.
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Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Visa fees if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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Personal expenses.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Optional activities.
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Lunch and dinner on day 4.
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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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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We recommend that you drink bottled water and avoid ice.
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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.
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Dambulla visit involves approximately 0.5 miles (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. It is a unique experience which can be a bit difficult depending on your fitness level. However, if you are not able to climb, you could return on your own to the coach after visiting a newer temple and a museum.
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Polonnaruwa visit involves approximately 0.5 miles (800 m) of walking on uneven ground. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility.
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The optional activity, "Visit of Sigiriya", involves approximately 1 mile (1,600 m) of walking with 1,200 uneven steps (up and down for total of 2,400 steps). We recommend you wear flat, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is only for very fit guests.
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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:
Heritance Kandalama
PO Box 11, Dambulla
Sri Lanka
Phone number: (+94) 66 5555 000
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 : AU$2,400
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.