India is a land that is so full and diverse you could spend a lifetime exploring its fascinating treasures. Whether you’re relaxing on Goa’s popular beaches with a cool refreshing tipple or marvelling at the majestic palaces and forts in Rajasthan, you will feel immersed in India’s intoxicating appeal. With an impressive 32 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the country is a treasure trove of spectacular attractions, but none more so than the Taj Mahal. The beautiful structure in northern India is one of the most recognisable sights in the world and an architectural marvel. But being a land of contrasts, the tranquil and spiritual sides of the country are counterbalanced with its bustling cities.
The fast-paced and frenetic Mumbai is an exciting cruise destination where you will have the chance to dive head-first into Indian culture; being swept up in the organised chaos and going with the flow is the only way to truly experience what local life is like. One of the most alluring things about India cruises is meeting the country’s people – here you will find some of the friendliest and most hospitable folk in the world; they will extend to you a warmth not unlike the climate or the exotic food.
Known by numerous aliases, the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ and the ‘Teardrop of India’ to name a couple, Sri Lanka can simply be referred to as paradise. Lying just off the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka is a varied island filled with lush-green forested hills, striking ancient temples and pristine white-sand beaches – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The Ancient City of Sigiriya is an incredible fortress that sits on top of ‘Lion Mountain’, an enormous rock whichstands tall and dominates the surrounding jungle. The Golden Temple of Dambulla – a fascinating monastery built within the caves of the rock of Dambulla – is filled with ancient Buddhist murals and statues that were originally created centuries ago.
Find yourself gazing out on a herd of elephants gathering in the afternoon, or strolling along one of the many unspoilt beaches. Why not enjoy a delicious egg hopper (a bowl shaped pancake-like delicacy) for breakfast as you watch the sun rise? Marco Polo called Sri Lanka ‘The Most Beautiful Island in the World’, and now this ‘Garden of Eden’ is easily accessible and still largely unspoilt, so there’s no better time to discover it yourself on a cruise to Sri Lanka.
