Enna vishayam! (Welcome in Tamil) Upon arrival we are welcomed and transferred to our hotel for a 2-nights stay at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel - a luxurious urban sanctuary in the heart of Sri Lanka's bustling capital, Colombo. Cinnamon Grand is known for its blend of modern comfort and timeless elegance. Sri Lanka changed name from Ceylon in 1972 when it became a republic, officially ending British dominion status. "Ceylon" was the colonial-era name (1815–1948) used by the British, which was replaced to "Sri Lanka" meaning "Resplendent Land". Prior to the British rule, Sri Lanka was colonized also by the Portuguese (1505–1658) followed by the Dutch (1658–1796).

Overnight: Cinnamon Grand, Colombo (2 Nights)

After breakfast, we set out on a guided exploration of Colombo - a vibrant commercial capital with rich cultural diversity. Explore the bustling lanes of Pettah Bazaar and Sea Street, renowned for traditional markets and the historic goldsmiths’ quarter. Visit a Hindu temple to witness local religious traditions, followed by the historic Dutch Church of Wolfendhal (1794), a reminder of the city’s colonial past.

Continue to the striking Davatagaha Mosque (1895) and drive through the elegant Cinnamon Gardens known for its leafy avenues and colonial-era homes before returning to our hotel.

Enjoy dinner at the Nuga Gama (meaning "Banyan Village" in Sinhala) - a premier restaurant withy then looks of a rustic traditional village. Centered around a 200-year-old banyan tree offering authentic Sri Lankan dining and cultural experiences with a sustainable carbon-neutral venue. (B, D)

Morning drive to the beautiful capital of the central highlands. En route we visit a local family and have a hands-on Kandyan lunch experience. We are introduced to this art by family members who retained the art and style of Kandyan cuisine. At Kandy we check in for 2-nights stay at the Grand Kandyan that boasts a blend of palatial grandeur and comforts typifying luxury with a spectacular view of the mountain ranges. Later we visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – a UNESCO World heritage site with free time at the city’s premier shopping area.

Overnight: The Grand Kandyan, Kandy (2 Nights) (B, L, D)

Today a blend of Sri Lankas’s diversity and rich history. We start with the magnificent Peradeniya Botanical Garden – a 147-acre premier botanical garden established in 1821 famous for its collection of over 4,000 plant species, including orchids, medicinal plants and royal palms. The Mahaweli River elegantly surrounds three sides of the garden.

A privately conducted stroll through the lush surroundings, discovering remarkable trees including the giant bamboo from Burma, a century-old Javan fig tree, cannonball trees and a striking collection of exotic palms. The gardens are also rich in wildlife with opportunities to spot endemic birds, reptiles, and small mammals in their natural habitat.

Enjoy a visit to the renowned Giragama Tea Factory, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest tea estates where we learn about the fascinating journey of Ceylon tea, from the careful hand-plucking of tender leaves to the intricate processing methods that create its world-famous flavour. A guided tour provides insight into the estate’s history and traditional tea-making techniques, set against the lush greenery of rolling plantations. Conclude visit by savouring freshly brewed cup of authentic Ceylon tea with the tranquil beauty of the surrounding hills.

Return drive to our hotel for dinner. (B, D)

We are now at Habarana hub of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. Habarana is a small town famed for its lush surroundings, Habarana Lake and luxury resorts. It is the premier base for visiting Sigiriya, Dambulla Cave Temple, and wildlife safaris to Minneriya National Park and particularly for spotting large elephant gatherings.

En route we visit a spice garden at Matale which is surrounded by Knuckles Mountain Range, the foothills of which were called Wiltshire by the British. It is a mainly agricultural where tea, rubber, vegetable and spice cultivation dominate.

After our spice garden experience, we visit a local Sinhalese family and learn how to prepare traditional meal and enjoy a light lunch and being Sunday, we may also enjoy the company of the younger family members who are conversant in English.

Taking advantage of the pleasant weather, we climb the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress UNESCO site. This is an included activity yet optional for those wanting to instead enjoy the scenery at the foot. Climbing the 5th Century Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a 1.5 to 3hour round trip climb over 1,200 steps. The ascent passes ancient frescoes and the Mirror Wall, culminating in a steep staircase through giant lion paws to a 360-degree viewing summit. We see spectacular views with Water Garden, Frescos of beautiful maidens, mirror wall with ancient graffiti, lions platform giving us a picture of the era of Sigiriya’s glory.

Overnight: The Cinnamon Lodge, Habrana (1 Night) (B, L, D)

A 25 Kms mid-morning drive and we are at Anuradhapura, the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Known as the most significant ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura has been the Sinhalese political and religious center for over 1,300 years. It is a UNESCO Site known for its extensive, well-preserved collection of massive stupas, ancient monasteries and advanced irrigation systems. It still remains a vital Buddhist pilgrimage center.

We have a privately guided exploration of the Anuradhapura Cultural Site - an ancient holy city because of its Eight Sacred Sites. Established in the 4th Century BC, the capital evolved into one of South Asia’s Great cities. Almost a hundred years later, Buddhism was introduced and still flourishes. In its heyday, its great monasteries included Abhayagiri the Buddhist institute of higher learning affiliated with the great monasteries of India.

A sampling of the Bodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment was brought to Sri Lanka in the 3rd Century BC. Today, it is the oldest documented tree in the world and here you can live on the deep-rooted religious beliefs of Sri Lanka’s Singhalese Buddhists. It’s also home to well preserved historical relics, renovated Buddhist shrines and Dagobas (stuppas) with the iconography of the Buddha image.

Our stay is at the eco-friendly structure designed to blend with nature - an ideal setting for Yoga meditation. The spacious rooms have been designed and furnished to provide quality and comfortable stay with private balconies offering panoramic views of the Tissa and the scenic nature surrounding the hotel.

Overnight: The Lake Forest Hotel Anuradhapura, Anuradhapura (1 Night) (B, D)

After breakfast we take a comfortable morning drive to Jaffna a distinctive cultural hub characterized by profound Tamil heritage, vibrant Hindu traditions and colonial architecture from Portuguese, Dutch and British times. Famous for its spicy cuisine, such as Jaffna crab curry and iconic landmarks like Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, the city has emerged as an authentic, resilient, and historically rich destination. We take a drive through tour of the city and get a first-hand experience of the vibrant local market.

Later in the afternoon, we join a local Tamil family and learn how to prepare a traditional meal. Secrets of the authentic crab curry, Jaffna style, are shared as we join the family for dinner leaning also of lifestyle in the most northern parts of Sri Lanka. We the have a 2-nights stay at our all-suite boutique hotel set in a lush garden.

Overnight: The Thinnai Hotel, Jaffna (2 Nights) (B, D)

Jaffna, is located in Sri Lanka’s northern province, and is a vibrant cultural capital of Sri Lankan Tamils, boasting a unique history of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial rule. Known for its Hindu temples, vibrant culture, fiery seafood cuisine, and resilience after the civil war, key attractions include the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, Jaffna Fort and nearby islands. As against the Sinhalese who form some 70% of the 22million Sri Lankans, Jaffna is the hub of the Tamil ethnic group. Hence, we will see, experience and taste a whole different local speciality. This makes a visit to Jaffna ever so interesting and it comes at the end of our Sri Lanka portion of this tour. 

Visit to the most significant, ancient and revered Hindu shrines in the Jaffna peninsula. Nallur Kandaswamy, known for its opulent and ornate golden architecture, acts as the cultural heart of Tamil Hindu worship in the region. Naguleswaram, an ancient Shiva temple, is uniquely associated with the nearby sacred Keerimalai Springs, believed to have healing properties.

We visit a vegetable garden where locals Jaffna residents grow vegetables and fruits suites for weather condition of Jaffna. While visiting the farm we can pick few vegetables as we venture into a Jaffna culinary session followed by lunch. Nice to end the day with a personal walk admiring the lush gardens of our hotel. (B, L, D)

A short flight to Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) - a major city in the State of Tamil Nadu in Southern India. Namaste greetings with closed hands as we are welcomed in India. An 85Kms drive and we are at Chettinad. We will be having a 2night stay at Visalam, a beautifully restored 1930s mansion that once belonged to a prosperous Chettiar family. This boutique hotel blends antique charm with contemporary comforts—airy verandas, hand-laid Athangudi tiled floors, wooden staircases polished by time, and traditional decor that narrates stories of a regal past. Operated by CGH Earth, the property is committed to sustainable practices and personalized service. Chettinad is unique for its opulent, globally-influenced mansions, highly aromatic and spicy cuisine, and a rich merchant heritage centered in Tamil Nadu. Key features include massive homes built with imported materials and egg-plastering, a specialized, sun-dried culinary style, and a, distinctive culture developed by the prosperous Nattukottai Chettiars.

Overnight: Visalam by CGH Earth, Chettinad (2 Nights) (B, D)

After our first Indian breakfast, we set out on a privately guided heritage walk through Kanadukathan. This quiet village is lined with palatial homes, some spanning over 40,000 square feet. We also visit the impressive Chettinad Palace, an architectural marvel that fuses European art deco with traditional South Indian craftsmanship. Its carved pillars, ceramic tiles, and grand courtyards speak of a time when trade routes connected this land to Burma (now Myanmar) Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and even beyond.

A short drive to the charming village of Athangudi, renowned for its handmade terracotta tiles. Here we visit a local tile workshop where artisans using century-old techniques and craft stunning geometric and floral designs by hand. Watch as pigments, stencils and fine sand are transformed into vividly colored tiles. It is a living heritage passed down through generations.

As dusk approaches, we return to Visalam for an unforgettable evening. In the open courtyard kitchen, we join Chef Joe and a local Chettinad cook for a live culinary session. Together, we’ll prepare signature dishes like Chicken Chettinad, Mutton Chukka, Prawn Masala, and Fish Fry, each deeply rooted in regional traditions. As spices sizzle and aromas rise, we are given leads on cooking techniques passed down from previous generations. Dinner tonight is served with pride—and you can make it under the carful supervision of our master chefs. (B, D)

After a relaxed breakfast at Visalam, we begin our 90 Kms drive to Madurai, one of South India’s most ancient and vibrant temple cities. We explore one of the oldest living cities in the world, continuously inhabited for over 2,500 years. It is the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, where ancient temples rise above bustling bazaars. This legendary city is steeped in mythology, architecture, and ritual tradition.

As the sun dips, Madurai begins to pulse with new energy. We hop into an auto rickshaw for an evening culinary trail through the buzzing streets. Guided by local food enthusiasts, weave through alleyways and markets to sample some of the city’s most loved flavors—crispy parottas, smoky kari dosa, murukku, sundal, and piping hot filter coffee served in steel tumblers. Each stop reveals a story of heritage kitchens, age-old techniques and community favourites that fuel the city’s appetite.

The night concludes with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, where corridors glow under the soft luminescence of temple lights. With fewer crowds and a tranquil ambiance, this nighttime visit offers a spiritual intimacy rarely not found during the day. The temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, is a marvel of Dravidian architecture with its towering gopurams, sacred tanks and intricately sculpted halls.

Overnight: Heritage Madurai, Madurai (1 Night) (B, D)

The day starts with a scenic 3hours drive to Periyar also known as Thekkady, where we visit the British-built dam in 1895. Periyar is famous for its wildlife reserve, providing an ideal environment to track wild elephants, bison, deer and various bird species. The tropical landscape surrounding us is adorned with tea, coffee, and other spices, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Enjoy an afyernoon boat cruise on the lake within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. From the tranquil setting of the lake, we will be impressed with the lush scenery while keeping our eyes out for animals that come to the water's edge. It is common to spot herds of elephants, wild boars and the magnificent Sambar Deer, enhancing our boating experience.

Evening, we participate in a cooking session put together by Chef Joe and a team of master chefs representing various regions of the country with a selection of dishes showcasing authentic flavors and aromas. Specializing in popular regional cuisines, each chef's expertise adds to the exquisite dining experience, allowing us also to indulge in the exotic preparations.

We have a 2nights stay at the incredible Spice Village an award-winning, eco-conscious resort modeled after thenative Mannan tribal dwellings. It features sustainable thatched-roof cottages, farm-to-table dining and immersive nature activities like spice tours and hiking in a lush, verdant environment.

Overnight: Spice Village, Thekkady, Spice Garden Cottages (2 Nights) (B, D)

An early morning privately guided Jungle walk through the Periyar Tiger Reserve/National Park, offering us a chance to see wildlife up rather close. The three hours walk is an easy to moderate level. Periyar is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers and leopards. Enjoy breakfast at our hotel.

Later in the afternoon, we visit a family home belonging to a native tribe where we explore a spice plantation. This organic plantation employs natural pest control methods and showcases a range of spices and herbs used for culinary and medicinal purposes. The owner and his family, who possess extensive knowledge about their produce, guide us through the plantation and encourage us to engage our senses by smelling and tasting various clippings. Demonstration of a home-cooked meal using the locally grown organic spices is followed with lunch with the family. Chef Joe introduces us to the traditional Indian way of using our fingers to enjoy the food.

Evening, we attend a Kalaripayattu show, an ancient art which is considered to be the mother of all martial arts. The art form is believed to have originated 3000 years ago with sage Parasurama, who is credited with reclaiming Kerala from the Arabian Sea. The show highlights the skill, agility and cultural significance of Kalaripayattu. (B, L, D)

A 140 Kms drive to Munnar where we check in to our hotel. An afternoon excursion with a visit to the Tea Museum. At the Tea estate in Munnar we can join the tea pickers and have an interesting time with them. Balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy the tranquil and serene surroundings. Evening, we enjoy a BBQ dinner at our hotel.

Overnight: Scenic Munnar, Munnar (1 Night) (B, D)

Another interesting day ahead as we take a 75Kms drive to Kothamanagalam. Here we visit a privately-owned coconut plantation. Our guides for the day are Peter and Pushpamma Jose, Chef Joe's parents-in-law. With Joe in his best behaviour, they will take us on a tour of their plantations, providing insights into their work with nature. We will see the cultivation of coconut and learn about their significance in everyday life. We then enjoy a typical Kerala lunch.

Following Kothamanagalam, we take a 73Kms drive to Kumarakom and check in for a 2nights stay at the famous Coconut Lagoon of Kumarakom (and not Ottawa!).  Balance of the day is free.

Overnight: Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom (2 Nights) (B, L, D)

Kumarakom is a serene picturesque village renowned as a premier backwater destination on the shores of the massive Vembanad Lake. Known for its tranquil waterways, coconut groves, lush mangrove forests and diverse bird sanctuary, it offers a peaceful, luxurious alternative to busier backwater spots.

Morning is free for personal activities. Afternoon, we board our private houseboat on a four-hour cruise on the popular backwaters of Kerala from Kumarakom to Alleppey. Lunch is on board our houseboat. Our journey begins through the picturesque backwaters and small lakes relaxing in the tranquility of Kerala's beautiful scenery. As we cruise, we will come across many smaller boats, canoes and other water crafts following the daily routine and traditional lifestyle. The low speed cruising allows us to observe families living on the banks of the river, their routine and how they earn their livelihood. from it too. Dinner is at our hotel. (B, L, D)

After breakfast we take a 3hours drive to Thrissur where we check in with lunch at the Hyatt Regency hotel.

We are invited for a spectacular home visit – this time it is at Joe's ancestral home and where we get a practical participation with Chef Joe’s Kerala family. This is from where Joe started his culinary journey. We are warmly welcomed by Joe's extended family, giving us the opportunity to participate in local customs, rituals and engage in discussions about Indian and our cultures. Enjoy a delicious home cooked dinner prepared either by Mama Joe or by her Indo-Canadian chef son – with each waiting to taste the food cooked by the other. We will see who gives in.

The day offers a unique blend of family connections, cultural insights and culinary experiences. It allows us to appreciate the cultural heritage of Kerala and getting a glimpse into Joe's personal background and the traditions that shaped him.

Overnight: Hyatt Regency, Thrissur (1 Night) (B, L, D)

After breakfast we take a 2-hours drive to Cochin, the capital city of the State of Kerala and India’s most literate state. We are welcomed at the home of the local culinary icon, Nimmy Paul. Nimmy is recognized the world over for her authentic recipes promoting healthy lifestyle as well as her knowledge of medicinal properties in spices and herbs used in everyday cooking. She has been featured in many international Journals. She will demonstrate and talk about the nuances of traditional Kerala recipes as she prepares four dishes in front of us. Lunch is a “Sadhya”-traditional banana leaf lunch consisting of vegetarian preparations and payasam (sweets) along with her favorite Kerala condiments. Being the last culinary we will be put into a test -  we will be tasted to identify the herbs and species followed by who amongst us has learnt the traditional Indian way of eating with our fingers!  We then check in at the exclusive Taj Malabar for a 2-nights stay.

Overnight: Taj Malabar, Kochi (2 Nights) (B, L)

The city of Cochin (now officially called Kochi) is known for its architecture. A charming town picturesquely located on several islands squeezed between the Arabian Sea and the Kerala backwaters. It reflects the maritime history of Kochi with the older buildings being a blend of Dutch, Portuguese and British architecture.

An early morning cruise from the Taj Malabar to Fort Kochi. Here we view Chinese fishing nets in action from our boat. We get off for a walking tour of Fort Kochi before returning to our hotel for breakfast.

We then wander through the old districts of Mattancherry and Fort Kochi where we see the daily life including mansions of well-known merchants, old warehouses, the beautiful waterfront and a walk through the narrow streets. We will also learn about the colourful murals, including depictions of the Ramayana at the 16thCentury Dutch Palace and also visit the Pardesi Synagogue in the Jewish Town. This is one amongst the four historical synagogues in India. 

Evening we are treated to a memorable mouth-watering farewell Dinner put together jointly by Chef Joe and the local chef. We will reminisce about the many interesting days, events and sites we visited in the last 3 weeks. Photos, exchange emails, etc. (B, D)

Our incredible journey discovering the culinary, historical and cultural delights of Sri Lanka & Kerala, India is now coming to an end. We will be transferred to the airport for the next destination. Hotel checkout time is 1000AM If your flight timing allows you will have breakfast at the hotel before your transfer. (B)