Lektor 
Einzelkabinenzuschlag geschenkt 
Inkludierte Landausflüge 
Deluxe Kabine
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Schätze von Indien
Colombo - Mumbai (früher Bombay)
Datum:
02.03.2025
bis
13.03.2025
Tage
Nächte an Bord
Gerüche des Orients, duftende Gewürze, grüne Landschaften, tausendjährige Geschichten: Entdecken Sie mit PONANT ein echtes Mosaik der Völker und Kulturen. Unsere 12-tägige Kreuzfahrt an Bord der Le Lapérouse führt Sie nach Sri Lanka und Indien, zwischen charakterstarken Städten und verblüffender Natur. Erliegen Sie von Mumbai bis nach Colombo dem Zauber des von buddhistischen und hinduistischen Traditionen geprägten Orients, am Rande des Indischen Ozeans.
Während Ihrer gesamten Reise profitieren Sie von einem bereits im Reisepreis inkludierten Landausflug pro Anlaufhafen und Person. Dieser ist aus einem vom PONANT sorgfältig zusammengestellten Angebot auszuwählen. Besuchen Sie auf dieser Kreuzfahrt beispielsweise das ethnografische Museum Goa Chitra und das Herrenhaus Figueiredo von Ihrem Zwischenstopp in Goa aus, erkunden Sie die wunderschöne UNESCO-Welterbestätte Sigiriya von Trincomalee aus oder genießen Sie den Charme von Galle bei einer Erkkundung der Stadt. Die Vielfalt der angebotenen Erlebnisse verspricht ebenso intensive wie abwechslungsreiche Momente (gesamtes Angebot unter dem Reiter „Reiseroute" einsehbar).
In Colombo, der quirligen Hauptstadt Sri Lankas, können Sie in die ganz besondere Atmosphäre des früheren Ceylons eintauchen. Sie ist für ihre Gewürze wie Zimt, Nelken und Muskatnuss bekannt, und ein Ort des Austauschs, ein Drehkreuz zwischen Asien und Europa.
Von Trincomalee aus, besuchen Sie die historische Stadt Polonnaruwa und den Goldenen Tempel von Dambulla, beide UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe.
Etwas weiter wartet Hambantota, das Eintrittstor zum prächtigen Landesinneren. Bei einem Ausflug in den Yala-Nationalpark können Sie die artenreiche Tierwelt Sri Lankas entdecken: Leoparden, Elefanten, Lippenbären, Affen und fast zweihundert Vogelarten sind hier beheimatet.
Dann nimmt die Le Lapérouse Kurs auf Galle mit seinen charakteristischen Befestigungen aus dem 16. Jahrhunderts, die die Stadt umgeben. Die aufeinanderfolgende Kolonialisierung durch die Portugiesen, die Holländer und die Briten brachte eine einzigartige Architektur hervor, die zum UNESCO-Welterbe gehört, und hinterließ ein Erbe mit zahlreichen Einflüssen.
Sie fahren weiter an der Malabarküste hinauf und erreichen das kosmopolitische Cochin. Diese königliche Stadt wurde an einer Lagune des Arabischen Meeres erbaut und hat sich ihren Charme aus vergangenen Zeiten bewahrt. Entdecken Sie auf traditionellen Booten die Fischerdörfer in den Backwaters, ein Netz aus Seen und Kanälen, die die dicht bewachsene Region durchziehen.
Ihr letzter Ausflug führt Sie nach Goa. Diese einstige portugiesische Kolonie ist für ihre langen Strände und ihr reiches Kulturerbe bekannt, vor allem für die Kirchen und Klöster vom Ende des 16. Jahrhunderts, die zum UNESCO-Welterbe gehören.
Das farbenprächtige Mumbai bildet den krönenden Abschluss Ihrer Reise. Die Hauptstadt des Bollywood-Films hat die höchste Bevölkerungsdichte Indiens, was ihr den Beinamen „Maximum City“ eingebracht hat. Diese Stadt der Superlative bietet Ihnen einmalige Erlebnisse, die Ihre Kreuzfahrt gebührend ausklingen lassen.
Ref : ER020325
Reiseroute
Kreuzfahrt zur Entdeckung von Sri Lanka und Indien, ein echtes Mosaik der Völker und Kulturen inmitten von prächtigen Landschaften Während der Kreuzfahrt von einem inkludierten Landausflug* pro Anlaufhafen...
Reiseverlauf ansehen
Reisedetails
Kabinen
Kabinen
Reiseleistungen
Reiseleistungen
Zusatzleistungen
Für mehr Sicherheit wählt PONANT Flüge aus und kümmert sich um Ihre Transfers für Ihre Reise sowie um Landbesuche vor und nach dem Ausschiffen.
Diese Reise könnte Ihnen auch gefallen...
Diese Reise könnte Ihnen auch gefallen...
LE SOLÉAL
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE BORÉAL
21.08.2024 bis 28.08.2024
- Neu
LE LYRIAL
- Neu
LE LYRIAL
08.09.2024 bis 19.09.2024
*Preis pro Person auf Basis einer Doppelkabine. Dieser Preis gilt vorbehaltlich Verfügbarkeit und basiert auf der Auslastung des jeweiligen Schiffes. Die Kabinenkategorie, für die dieser Preis gilt, ist möglichweise nicht mehr verfügbar
Serviceleistungen
- 24-Stunden-Roomservice
- Butler-Service und Priority Boarding: Owner Suite, Grand Deluxe Suite, Privilege Suite,
Prestige Suite auf Deck 6
- Kostenfreier Internetanschluss und WLAN-Zugang (Verfügbarkeit abhängig vom Navigationsgebiet)
- Individuell einstellbare Klimaanlage
- Kleiderschrank mit Regalen und Staufläche
- Frisiertisch und Haartrockner
- Auswahl hochwertiger Pflegeprodukte von Dyptique Paris
- Minibar
- Nespresso Kaffeemaschine und Wasserkocher
- Elektronischer Safe
- Telefon per Satelittenverbindung
- Bluetooth-Lautsprecher von Bose
- Flachbildfernseher mit internationalen Kanälen (Verfügbarkeit abhängig vom Navigationsgebiet) und großer Filmauswahl
- 110/220 Volt Steckdosen
- Zwei barrierefreie Kabinen
Wählen Sie eine Kabinenkategorie aus
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 Aktivitäten
Highlights
- Kreuzfahrt zur Entdeckung von Sri Lanka und Indien, ein echtes Mosaik der Völker und Kulturen inmitten von prächtigen Landschaften
- Während der Kreuzfahrt von einem inkludierten Landausflug* pro Anlaufhafen und Person profitieren, die von unseren Experten zusammengestellt wurden
- UNESCO-Welterbestätten: Galle und seine Befestigungsanlagen (auf Sri Lanka), die Kirchen und Klöster von Goa und der Bahnhof Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (ehemals Victoria Terminus) in Mumbai
- Entdeckung der prächtigen Landschaften Keralas bei einer Bootstour durch die Backwaters: palmengesäumte Flüsse, Reisfelder und Fischerdörfer
- Entdeckung des kulturellen Erbes von Goa, eine ehemalige portugiesische Kolonie
- Overnight-Aufenthalte in Cochin und Mumbai, um in die einzigartige Atmosphäre einzutauchen und die eklektische Architektur sowie das quirlige Leben in indischen Städten zu entdecken
- Vor der Kreuzfahrt: Möglichkeit, die Tempel von Colombo und die UNESCO-Welterbestätten Dambulla und Polonnaruwa zu entdecken
*Vorreservierungen der Landausflüge ab etwa zwei Monate vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt möglich. Anfragen werden nach Reihenfolge ihres Eingangs und unter Berücksichtigung einer entsprechenden Verfügbarkeit bearbeitet.
Häfen & Landausflüge
2. März 2025 - Colombo
Einschiffung 02.03.2025 von 16:00 bis 17:00
Abfahrt 02.03.2025 um 18:00
Colombo ist ein ehemaliger Handelsposten an der Seidenstraße und die fabelhafte Altstadt zeugt von der kolonialen Vergangenheit. Die Stadt war bereits im 8. Jahrhundert bekannt unter Arabern, Persern und Chinesen, denn damals war der verschlafene Ort zwischen den Dünen ein Teil der Gewürzroute. Mit ihren Stränden entlang der Westküste des Landes bietet die heutige wirtschaftliche Hauptstadt Sri Lankas Postkartenlandschaften. Der Sand könnte nicht weißer, das Meer nicht klarer sein.
3. März 2025 - Auf See
Ankunft 03.03.2025
Abfahrt 03.03.2025
Genießen Sie während der Überfahrt auf See die zahlreichen Freizeitangebote an Bord. Gönnen Sie sich Entspannung im Spa oder halten Sie sich im Fitnessraum in Form. Lassen Sie sich je nach Jahreszeit zu einem Sprung in den Pool oder zu einem Sonnenbad verlocken. Dieser Reise ohne Zwischenstopp bietet auch Gelegenheit, einer Konferenz oder einer der an Bord angebotenen Vorstellungen beizuwohnen, abhängig von den angebotenen Aktivitäten, oder in der Boutique ein wenig zu shoppen oder die PONANT-Fotografen in ihrem eigenen Bereich aufzusuchen. Wer das offene Meer liebt, bewundert auf dem Oberdeck das Schauspiel der Wogen und kann mit etwas Glück Meerestiere beobachten. Eine zauberhafte kleine Auszeit mit Komfort, Entspannung und Unterhaltung.
4. März 2025 - Trincomalee
Ankunft 04.03.2025 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 04.03.2025 am späten Nachmittag
Trincomalee, die große Hafenstadt im Nordosten von Sri Lanka, ist Ihr Ausgangsort zu zwei außergewöhnlichen Orten. Der Goldene Tempel von Dambulla, ein Höhlentempel, der zum Welterbe der UNESCO zählt, ruft immer wieder Staunen hervor. Buddhistische Wandmalereien, Höhlen und die berühmte Statue eines liegenden Buddhas prägen die Schönheit dieses weltweit einzigartigen Ortes, der vor über 2000 Jahren entstand. Ein weiteres kulturelles Kleinod erwartet Sie: die historische Stadt Polonnaruwa. Die ebenfalls zum Weltkulturerbe der UNESCO zählende Kleinstadt birgt die Ruinen einer wunderschönen Gartenstadt aus dem 12. Jahrhundert. Dort können Sie den Gal Vihara bewundern, ein außergewöhnlicher Ort, an dem vier Buddha-Statuen in den Stein gehauen wurden.
5. März 2025 - Hambantota
Ankunft 05.03.2025 mittags
Abfahrt 05.03.2025 abends
Dieser große malaiische Fischerhafen befindet sich an der Südküste des ehemaligen Ceylan. Die zwischen zwei Lagunen gelegene Stadt Hambantota ist für die Präsenz von wilden Elefanten bekannt, die dortige Population hat einen Anteil von 10 % an den insgesamt in dem Land beheimateten Elefanten. Die vielfältige Tierwelt kann nur wenige Kilometer entfernt im Yala-Nationalpark beobachtet werden, dem zweitgrößten Park Sri-Lankas. In diesem Refugium für wilde Tiere haben Sie die einmalige Gelegenheit, zahlreiche seltene Tierarten zu beobachten. Lippenbären, Mangusten, Krokodile, Affen und Büffel sind hier zu Hause und nicht selten lassen sich die eleganten Leoparden blicken. Die tropischen Regenwälder sind außerdem ein Schutzgebiet für mehr als zweihundert Vogelarten. Ein echter Garten Eden der Biodiversität und ein außergewöhnliches Territorium zum Erforschen.
6. März 2025 - Galle
Ankunft 06.03.2025 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 06.03.2025 am späten Nachmittag
Entdecken Sie Galle, eine der ältesten Städte von Sri Lanka. Ihr Handelshafen, von dem aus Gewürze und Edelsteine versandt wurden, machte Galle früher zu einer der bedeutendsten Städte des Landes. Noch heute ist sie von den Zeichen der portugiesischen und dann holländischen Kolonisierung geprägt. Bummeln Sie bei Ihrem Aufenthalt durch die Altstadt und ihre Befestigungsanlagen, die zum Welterbe der UNESCO gehören. Sie wurden Ende des 16. Jahrhunderts von den Portugiesen gebaut und sind sehr gut erhalten. Wenn Sie mehr über den Alltag und das Landleben auf Sri Lanka lernen müssen, lassen Sie sich den Besuch des Volkskundemuseums Martin Wickramasinghe in Koggala, in der Nähe von Galle, nicht entgehen.
7. März 2025 - Auf See
Ankunft 07.03.2025
Abfahrt 07.03.2025
Genießen Sie während der Überfahrt auf See die zahlreichen Freizeitangebote an Bord. Gönnen Sie sich Entspannung im Spa oder halten Sie sich im Fitnessraum in Form. Lassen Sie sich je nach Jahreszeit zu einem Sprung in den Pool oder zu einem Sonnenbad verlocken. Dieser Reise ohne Zwischenstopp bietet auch Gelegenheit, einer Konferenz oder einer der an Bord angebotenen Vorstellungen beizuwohnen, abhängig von den angebotenen Aktivitäten, oder in der Boutique ein wenig zu shoppen oder die PONANT-Fotografen in ihrem eigenen Bereich aufzusuchen. Wer das offene Meer liebt, bewundert auf dem Oberdeck das Schauspiel der Wogen und kann mit etwas Glück Meerestiere beobachten. Eine zauberhafte kleine Auszeit mit Komfort, Entspannung und Unterhaltung.
8. März 2025 9. März 2025 - Cochin
Ankunft 08.03.2025 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 09.03.2025 am späten Nachmittag
Der groβe südwestindische Hafen Cochin (Kochi) ist einer der schönsten der Malabarküste, wo sich die Düfte von Kardamom und Nelken in der Luft vermischen. Vor 500 Jahren landete hier der Entdecker Vasco da Gama. Vor ihm warfen jedoch schon viele andere – Phönizier, Griechen, Araber, Römer – den Anker in den türkisblauen Gewässern des Arabischen Meers. In der Zeit als Pfeffer beinahe so wertvoll war wie Gold, war die Hafenstadt ein Schmelztiegel der Nationalitäten. Heute bietet die überraschende Metropole mit vielen Gesichtern ein reiches kulturelles und natürliches Erbe, das alte Anwesen aus der Kolonialzeit, traditionelle Fischereimethoden und die malerischen Landschaften der Backwaters umfasst.
10. März 2025 - Auf See
Ankunft 10.03.2025
Abfahrt 10.03.2025
Genießen Sie während der Überfahrt auf See die zahlreichen Freizeitangebote an Bord. Gönnen Sie sich Entspannung im Spa oder halten Sie sich im Fitnessraum in Form. Lassen Sie sich je nach Jahreszeit zu einem Sprung in den Pool oder zu einem Sonnenbad verlocken. Dieser Reise ohne Zwischenstopp bietet auch Gelegenheit, einer Konferenz oder einer der an Bord angebotenen Vorstellungen beizuwohnen, abhängig von den angebotenen Aktivitäten, oder in der Boutique ein wenig zu shoppen oder die PONANT-Fotografen in ihrem eigenen Bereich aufzusuchen. Wer das offene Meer liebt, bewundert auf dem Oberdeck das Schauspiel der Wogen und kann mit etwas Glück Meerestiere beobachten. Eine zauberhafte kleine Auszeit mit Komfort, Entspannung und Unterhaltung.
11. März 2025 - Mormugao (Goa)
Ankunft 11.03.2025 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 11.03.2025 am späten Nachmittag
Mormugao liegt im Bezirk South Goa im indischen Bundesstaat Goa. Hier befindet sich der wichtigste Seehafen des Staates. Goa ist weltweit für sein Klima, die Schönheit seiner Strände, seine Reisfelder und seine Wasserfälle bekannt und insbesondere die Altstadt hält mit ihrem reichen kulturellen und religiösen Erbe viele Überraschungen bereit. Neben Hindutempeln und Moscheen stehen hier zahlreiche Kirchen aus dem 16. und 17. Jahrhundert, die zum UNESCO-Welterbe gehören, zum Beispiel die Basílica do Bom Jesus. Auch das Museum Goa Chitra, das erste ethnographische Museum von Goa, ist einen Besuch wert.
12. März 2025 - Auf See
Ankunft 12.03.2025
Abfahrt 12.03.2025
Genießen Sie während der Überfahrt auf See die zahlreichen Freizeitangebote an Bord. Gönnen Sie sich Entspannung im Spa oder halten Sie sich im Fitnessraum in Form. Lassen Sie sich je nach Jahreszeit zu einem Sprung in den Pool oder zu einem Sonnenbad verlocken. Dieser Reise ohne Zwischenstopp bietet auch Gelegenheit, einer Konferenz oder einer der an Bord angebotenen Vorstellungen beizuwohnen, abhängig von den angebotenen Aktivitäten, oder in der Boutique ein wenig zu shoppen oder die PONANT-Fotografen in ihrem eigenen Bereich aufzusuchen. Wer das offene Meer liebt, bewundert auf dem Oberdeck das Schauspiel der Wogen und kann mit etwas Glück Meerestiere beobachten. Eine zauberhafte kleine Auszeit mit Komfort, Entspannung und Unterhaltung.
12. März 2025 13. März 2025 - Mumbai (früher Bombay)
Ankunft 12.03.2025 am frühen Nachmittag
Ausschiffung 13.03.2025 um 08:00
In Mumbai, einer faszinierenden Stadt am Arabischen Meer, können Sie ins Herz der hinduistischen Kultur eintauchen. Besuchen Sie die Elephanta-Höhlen mit aus dem Fels herausgehauenen Skulpturen, die der Verehrung Shivas dienen. Ganz in der Nähe können Sie das Gandhi Museum besuchen, das dieser wichtigen Persönlichkeit gewidmet ist, die eine entscheidende Rolle bei der Emanzipation und der Unabhängigkeit Indiens spielte, ebenso wie den Bahnhof Victoria Terminus, das schönste Beispiel der viktorianischen Architektur in Indien. Das Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya bietet wunderschöne Sammlungen von Skulpturen, Miniaturen und Porträts des späteren Königs Georges V.
Sigiriya, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Drive from the pier to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This ancient rock fortress and palace ruin is surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures. Sigiriya is also renowned for its ancient paintings (commonly known as frescos), which are reminiscent of the Ajanta Caves of India. At the top of a sheltered spiral stairway you will find the famous Sigiriya frescoes, 21 figures of females depicted as rising from the clouds, which are some of the earliest surviving pictorial art in Sri Lanka. Built during the reign of the great controversial King Kasyapa (477 AD – 495 AD), it is one of the 7 world heritage sites in Sri Lanka and definitely a must-see destination in the Cultural Triangle and on the island.
After arriving in Sigiriya walk up the 1200-step ancient rock fortress at your own pace with your guide. Once at the top, your guide will recount stories from the bygone era and give you time to explore this magnificent piece of Sri Lankan history and the breathtaking views from the top of the rock.
Once you have returned to the bottom, drive to a hotel for a relaxing, well deserved lunch before returning to Trincomalee and our ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1 mile (1 600m) of walking with 1200 uneven steps (up and down for total of 2400 steps). We recommend you wear flat comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is only for very fit guests. The drive to/from Sirigiya takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
Dambulla, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Depart from the pier and drive to Dambulla to visit the Golden Cave Temple, which is Sri Lanka's largest and best-preserved Temple.
Dating back to the First Century BC, the Golden Temple of Dambulla has been the center of pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus alike for 22 centuries. The Cave monastery, home to Buddhist monks, is covered with exquisite 2,000-year-old murals depicting the life and times of the Lord Buddha. The shrines also house a collection of 157 statues of Buddha in various sizes and poses, including a 15-meter-long reclining Buddha, and vividly coloured frescoes on the walls and ceiling, making this the largest antique painted surface in the world.
The largest and most impressive of the caves, the Temple of the Great King, is 52 meters from one side to another, and 23 meters from the entrance to the back, with the sloping ceiling seven meters at its highest point. The entire surface of the cave is a mosaic of frescoes with so many themes and styles that it is easy to be overwhelmed. The paintings at Dambulla are representative of many different epochs of Sinhalese Buddhist art, although the classical school of Sinhalese painting (which ceased at the end of the 12th century) is not represented. The “New School”, supposedly influenced by the contemporary South Indian Deccan School, is less successful than the earlier indigenous art forms, using brilliant colour schemes in predominately red and yellow. It is not possible to date the Dambulla paintings precisely, since they have been painted over throughout the centuries. Some, however, were originally done by Kandyan artists during the 17th century. It is no wonder the Rock Temple has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the climb, drive to Cinnamon Lodge Hotel for lunch before returning to Trincomalee.
- The drive to/from Dambulla takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 0.5 mile / 700 m of walking on uneven ground. There are 365 steps to reach the caves, or a long pathway with long steps. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
Polonnaruwa, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Depart from the quayside and proceed to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa a 3-hour drive from the port.
Polonnaruwa was established as the capital after Anuradhapura had been invaded in the late 10th century. Under King Parakramabu, who ruled in the late 11th century, Polonnaruwa became a magnificent walled city. He built the vast reservoir, Parakrama Samudra (the Sea of Parakrama), still in use today, and ordered the construction of monasteries, temples, palaces, bathing pools and Buddhist statues; all set in a forested park surrounded by moats.
One of the most striking of the many sites is Polonnaruwa’s Gal Vihara, or Rock Shrine. The reclining Lord Buddha is near another statue showing him seated in deep meditation, his throne adorned with lions and thunderbolts. A second seated Lord Buddha, surrounded by other deities including Brahma and Vishnu, is set within a cave cut into the rock face that still bears traces of the frescoes which once decorated the walls. The fourth Gal Vihara statue departs from the conventional poses by depicting the Lord Buddha as a seven-meter tall standing figure with arms crossed. The Quadrangle, with 12 superb buildings standing on a platform in the centre of the ancient city, and the Lankatilleke image house, a vast brick building with a standing Buddha at the rear, are also among the many magnificent remains.
After visiting Polonnaruwa, drive to a hotel for lunch before returning to Trincomalee.
- The drive to/from Polonnaruwa takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 0,5 mile (800m) of walking on uneven ground. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold. Drones are not allowed.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
Trincomalee city tour
Trincomalee, or ‘Trinco’ as it is affectionately known, has a rich history and has served as a hub of maritime and trading activities, thanks to its natural harbor. On the way to your first visit, enjoy photo stops at the fisheries harbour to take photographs of the fishing boats, a Buddhist Temple and maybe if you are lucky you will have the opportunity to spot Deer.
Your coach will take you to Fort Frederick, which was a defense site for over a century and now houses the colorful Koneshwaram Temple and Swami Rock from where you will enjoy a beautiful view of the sea.
Afterwards, drive to the fish market to experience the day to day life of fishermen. Enjoy some free time to explore the main street and a few lanes in and around the market area.
Drive to visit the Commonwealth war cemetery located close to the city of Trincomalee before returning to the pier.
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For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold. This tour involves approx. 1 km with some irregular steps. No photo are allowed inside the Koneswaram temple.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
Elephants of Udawalawe
Set off on a full-day excursion designed to give you a remarkable look at the social order, intelligence and beauty of elephants in the wild.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to Udawalawa National Park, where more than 400 wild elephants live safely in their natural habitat. Hop into an off-road vehicle for a photo safari that is sure to provide an incredible perspective of these majestic creatures.
After lunch at a local resort, the day continues with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, a government run organization supported by the Born Free Foundation. The facility's mission is to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants so that they can be returned to the wild. Watch adorable young elephants being fed and learn how they are cared for and prepared for their future.
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The drive to/from Udawalawa National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
Yala National Park
Set off through the wilds of Yala National Park on a photographic safari to spot elephants, sloth bears, and other indigenous wildlife. This is one of the largest and most heralded National Parks in Sri Lanka and you will explore it in truly rugged fashion.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to the entrance of the national park. Upon your arrival, you will hop into an off-road vehicle, along with a local guide and park expert, and bound across the unspoiled terrain on a two-hour wildlife expedition. Yala is home to 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, so keep watch for elephants, sloth bears, deer, wild boar, colourful birds and exotic birds of prey. Snap awe-inspiring photos, learn about the wildlife spotted along the way; and marvel at the majesty of the scenery as you rumble through Yala National Park. After lunch at a local restaurant, it will be time for the drive back to the pier.
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The drive to and from Yala National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars.
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Elephants of Udawalawe
Set off on a full-day excursion designed to give you a remarkable look at the social order, intelligence and beauty of elephants in the wild.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to Elephant Transit Home, a government run organization supported by the Born Free Foundation. The facility's mission is to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants so that they can be returned to the wild. Watch adorable young elephants being fed and learn how they are cared for and prepared for their future.
Then, continues to Udawalawa National Park, where more than 400 wild elephants live safely in their natural habitat. Hop into an off-road vehicle for a photo safari that is sure to provide an incredible perspective of these majestic creatures.
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The drive to/from Udawalawa National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars. Order of the visits may vary.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
Yala National Park
Set off through the wilds of Yala National Park on a photographic safari to spot elephants, sloth bears, and other indigenous wildlife. This is one of the largest and most heralded National Parks in Sri Lanka and you will explore it in truly rugged fashion.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to the entrance of the national park. Upon your arrival, you will hop into an off-road vehicle, along with a local guide and park expert, and bound across the unspoiled terrain on a two-hour wildlife expedition. Yala is home to 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, so keep watch for elephants, sloth bears, deer, wild boar, colourful birds and exotic birds of prey. Snap awe-inspiring photos, learn about the wildlife spotted along the way; and marvel at the majesty of the scenery as you rumble through Yala National Park.
-
The drive to and from Yala National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Culture of Mumbai
From the pier, embark your coach to visit one of the most famous markets in Mumbai—Crawford Market. It is housed in a building that looks like something out of Victorian London but is overrun with a crazy riot of local colour, including the chaotic wholesale cloth market with a tremendous variety of fabrics across hundreds of indoor stalls.
Continue your drive to the Churchgate Railway Station. Spend some time watching the dabbawalas, members of the Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Association. Every day, 4,000 of these intrepid entrepreneurs deliver fresh, home-cooked food from 100,000 suburban kitchens to offices in the downtown area. The meals are carried, dangling from shoulder-poles and bicycle handlebars, or stacked on decorated handcarts, to their hungry recipients.
Your next visit will be to one of the oldest surviving structures in Mumbai: the temple complex of Banganga. It is situated at the southern side of Malabar Hill close to the Arabian Sea. At the centre of the complex lies a rectangular pool of holy water where locals bathe as part of their ritual. They believe the waters have special healing powers. The source of the spring is said to be an underground offshoot of the Ganges, and the waters are considered just as sacred as those of the great river itself.
Continue your excursion with an orientation drive through Mumbai passing prominent landmarks such as Flora Fountain, the university and Victoria Terminus. The latter is a most remarkable railway station, inspired by St Pancras Station in London. It was built during Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee year and 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 use the station every day.
After the visit, drive back to the pier.
- This tour involves 0.7 miles (1.2km) of walking 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 or operate in reverse. Duration of the tour may vary due to traffic/other unforeseen circumstances.
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Le Lapérouse
Diese Kreuzfahrtyacht verfügt über eine innovative und umweltfreundliche Ausstattung. Die Lounges sind so gestaltet, dass sie einen weiten Blick nach draußen ermöglichen. Sie wird Ihnen ein einzigartiges Kreuzfahrterlebnis bieten.
An Bord dieses Schiffes, das unter französischer Flagge fährt, erwartet Sie das unvergleichliche Erlebnis einer Kreuzfahrt mit privater Atmosphäre, auf der Sie ständig neue Reiseziele in einem schicken Ambiente bei Service auf höchstem Niveau erkunden können.
Die Unterwasser-Lounge Blue Eye hält ein weltweit einzigartiges Erlebnis für Sie bereit.
Bis 184 Gäste
92 Kabinen & Suiten
118 Crew-Mitglieder
Spa
2 Restaurants
Decks
Lektor
An Bord Ihres Schiffes bieten Ihnen ausgewählte Lektoren kulturelle und historische Einblicke, damit Sie noch mehr über Ihr Reiseziel erfahren können: den Ursprung der lokalen Traditionen, die Geschichte symbolischer Orte, berühmte Persönlichkeiten und historische Helden... Die Experten begleiten Sie während der gesamten Kreuzfahrt, an Bord und bei den Ausflügen an Land, um ihr Know-how und ihre Einsichten mit Ihnen zu teilen.
Einzelkabinenzuschlag geschenkt
EINZELKABINENZUSCHLAG GESCHENKT*
*Einzelkabinenzuschlag entfällt. Begrenztes Kontingent, abhängig von Verfügbarkeit.
Inkludierte Landausflüge
Während der Reise profitieren Sie von einem im Reisepreis inbegriffenen Landausflug pro Person und pro Anlaufhafen, auszuwählen aus einem von PONANT zusammengestellten Angebot. Ob Sie nun ein Museum oder eine UNESCO-Welterbestätte besuchen, eine Aktivität in der Natur unternehmen oder lokale Produkte probieren oder an einer der vielen anderen einmaligen Aktivitäten teilnehmen, eine Vielfalt von ansprechenden und sorgfältig vorbereiteten Ausflügen erwartet Sie unterwegs.
*Die Vorreservierungen werden etwa zwei Monate vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt geöffnet.Anfragen werden je nach Verfügbarkeit in der Reihenfolge ihres Eingangs bearbeitet.
Unsere Zusatzleistungen
Sigiriya, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Drive from the pier to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This ancient rock fortress and palace ruin is surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures. Sigiriya is also renowned for its ancient paintings (commonly known as frescos), which are reminiscent of the Ajanta Caves of India. At the top of a sheltered spiral stairway you will find the famous Sigiriya frescoes, 21 figures of females depicted as rising from the clouds, which are some of the earliest surviving pictorial art in Sri Lanka. Built during the reign of the great controversial King Kasyapa (477 AD – 495 AD), it is one of the 7 world heritage sites in Sri Lanka and definitely a must-see destination in the Cultural Triangle and on the island.
After arriving in Sigiriya walk up the 1200-step ancient rock fortress at your own pace with your guide. Once at the top, your guide will recount stories from the bygone era and give you time to explore this magnificent piece of Sri Lankan history and the breathtaking views from the top of the rock.
Once you have returned to the bottom, drive to a hotel for a relaxing, well deserved lunch before returning to Trincomalee and our ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1 mile (1 600m) of walking with 1200 uneven steps (up and down for total of 2400 steps). We recommend you wear flat comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is only for very fit guests. The drive to/from Sirigiya takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
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Dambulla, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Depart from the pier and drive to Dambulla to visit the Golden Cave Temple, which is Sri Lanka's largest and best-preserved Temple.
Dating back to the First Century BC, the Golden Temple of Dambulla has been the center of pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus alike for 22 centuries. The Cave monastery, home to Buddhist monks, is covered with exquisite 2,000-year-old murals depicting the life and times of the Lord Buddha. The shrines also house a collection of 157 statues of Buddha in various sizes and poses, including a 15-meter-long reclining Buddha, and vividly coloured frescoes on the walls and ceiling, making this the largest antique painted surface in the world.
The largest and most impressive of the caves, the Temple of the Great King, is 52 meters from one side to another, and 23 meters from the entrance to the back, with the sloping ceiling seven meters at its highest point. The entire surface of the cave is a mosaic of frescoes with so many themes and styles that it is easy to be overwhelmed. The paintings at Dambulla are representative of many different epochs of Sinhalese Buddhist art, although the classical school of Sinhalese painting (which ceased at the end of the 12th century) is not represented. The “New School”, supposedly influenced by the contemporary South Indian Deccan School, is less successful than the earlier indigenous art forms, using brilliant colour schemes in predominately red and yellow. It is not possible to date the Dambulla paintings precisely, since they have been painted over throughout the centuries. Some, however, were originally done by Kandyan artists during the 17th century. It is no wonder the Rock Temple has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the climb, drive to Cinnamon Lodge Hotel for lunch before returning to Trincomalee.
- The drive to/from Dambulla takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 0.5 mile / 700 m of walking on uneven ground. There are 365 steps to reach the caves, or a long pathway with long steps. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
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Polonnaruwa, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Depart from the quayside and proceed to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa a 3-hour drive from the port.
Polonnaruwa was established as the capital after Anuradhapura had been invaded in the late 10th century. Under King Parakramabu, who ruled in the late 11th century, Polonnaruwa became a magnificent walled city. He built the vast reservoir, Parakrama Samudra (the Sea of Parakrama), still in use today, and ordered the construction of monasteries, temples, palaces, bathing pools and Buddhist statues; all set in a forested park surrounded by moats.
One of the most striking of the many sites is Polonnaruwa’s Gal Vihara, or Rock Shrine. The reclining Lord Buddha is near another statue showing him seated in deep meditation, his throne adorned with lions and thunderbolts. A second seated Lord Buddha, surrounded by other deities including Brahma and Vishnu, is set within a cave cut into the rock face that still bears traces of the frescoes which once decorated the walls. The fourth Gal Vihara statue departs from the conventional poses by depicting the Lord Buddha as a seven-meter tall standing figure with arms crossed. The Quadrangle, with 12 superb buildings standing on a platform in the centre of the ancient city, and the Lankatilleke image house, a vast brick building with a standing Buddha at the rear, are also among the many magnificent remains.
After visiting Polonnaruwa, drive to a hotel for lunch before returning to Trincomalee.
- The drive to/from Polonnaruwa takes approximately 3 hours in each direction. This tour involves approximately 0,5 mile (800m) of walking on uneven ground. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold. Drones are not allowed.
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Trincomalee city tour
Trincomalee, or ‘Trinco’ as it is affectionately known, has a rich history and has served as a hub of maritime and trading activities, thanks to its natural harbor. On the way to your first visit, enjoy photo stops at the fisheries harbour to take photographs of the fishing boats, a Buddhist Temple and maybe if you are lucky you will have the opportunity to spot Deer.
Your coach will take you to Fort Frederick, which was a defense site for over a century and now houses the colorful Koneshwaram Temple and Swami Rock from where you will enjoy a beautiful view of the sea.
Afterwards, drive to the fish market to experience the day to day life of fishermen. Enjoy some free time to explore the main street and a few lanes in and around the market area.
Drive to visit the Commonwealth war cemetery located close to the city of Trincomalee before returning to the pier.
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For this excursion, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold. This tour involves approx. 1 km with some irregular steps. No photo are allowed inside the Koneswaram temple.
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Elephants of Udawalawe
Set off on a full-day excursion designed to give you a remarkable look at the social order, intelligence and beauty of elephants in the wild.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to Udawalawa National Park, where more than 400 wild elephants live safely in their natural habitat. Hop into an off-road vehicle for a photo safari that is sure to provide an incredible perspective of these majestic creatures.
After lunch at a local resort, the day continues with a visit to the Elephant Transit Home, a government run organization supported by the Born Free Foundation. The facility's mission is to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants so that they can be returned to the wild. Watch adorable young elephants being fed and learn how they are cared for and prepared for their future.
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The drive to/from Udawalawa National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars.
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Yala National Park
Set off through the wilds of Yala National Park on a photographic safari to spot elephants, sloth bears, and other indigenous wildlife. This is one of the largest and most heralded National Parks in Sri Lanka and you will explore it in truly rugged fashion.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to the entrance of the national park. Upon your arrival, you will hop into an off-road vehicle, along with a local guide and park expert, and bound across the unspoiled terrain on a two-hour wildlife expedition. Yala is home to 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, so keep watch for elephants, sloth bears, deer, wild boar, colourful birds and exotic birds of prey. Snap awe-inspiring photos, learn about the wildlife spotted along the way; and marvel at the majesty of the scenery as you rumble through Yala National Park. After lunch at a local restaurant, it will be time for the drive back to the pier.
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The drive to and from Yala National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
Elephants of Udawalawe
Set off on a full-day excursion designed to give you a remarkable look at the social order, intelligence and beauty of elephants in the wild.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to Elephant Transit Home, a government run organization supported by the Born Free Foundation. The facility's mission is to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants so that they can be returned to the wild. Watch adorable young elephants being fed and learn how they are cared for and prepared for their future.
Then, continues to Udawalawa National Park, where more than 400 wild elephants live safely in their natural habitat. Hop into an off-road vehicle for a photo safari that is sure to provide an incredible perspective of these majestic creatures.
-
The drive to/from Udawalawa National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars. Order of the visits may vary.
Inbegriffen
Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
Yala National Park
Set off through the wilds of Yala National Park on a photographic safari to spot elephants, sloth bears, and other indigenous wildlife. This is one of the largest and most heralded National Parks in Sri Lanka and you will explore it in truly rugged fashion.
From the pier, board your coach for the 1.5-hour drive to the entrance of the national park. Upon your arrival, you will hop into an off-road vehicle, along with a local guide and park expert, and bound across the unspoiled terrain on a two-hour wildlife expedition. Yala is home to 44 mammal species and 215 bird species, so keep watch for elephants, sloth bears, deer, wild boar, colourful birds and exotic birds of prey. Snap awe-inspiring photos, learn about the wildlife spotted along the way; and marvel at the majesty of the scenery as you rumble through Yala National Park.
-
The drive to and from Yala National Park takes approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Once at the park, you will board 6-seater off-road vehicles. This tour involves very little walking. However, due to the nature of the tracks, it is not recommended for guests with back and/or neck problems nor pregnant women. Although frequent, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring binoculars.
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Je nach Verfügbarkeit Preis pro Person.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Culture of Mumbai
From the pier, embark your coach to visit one of the most famous markets in Mumbai—Crawford Market. It is housed in a building that looks like something out of Victorian London but is overrun with a crazy riot of local colour, including the chaotic wholesale cloth market with a tremendous variety of fabrics across hundreds of indoor stalls.
Continue your drive to the Churchgate Railway Station. Spend some time watching the dabbawalas, members of the Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Association. Every day, 4,000 of these intrepid entrepreneurs deliver fresh, home-cooked food from 100,000 suburban kitchens to offices in the downtown area. The meals are carried, dangling from shoulder-poles and bicycle handlebars, or stacked on decorated handcarts, to their hungry recipients.
Your next visit will be to one of the oldest surviving structures in Mumbai: the temple complex of Banganga. It is situated at the southern side of Malabar Hill close to the Arabian Sea. At the centre of the complex lies a rectangular pool of holy water where locals bathe as part of their ritual. They believe the waters have special healing powers. The source of the spring is said to be an underground offshoot of the Ganges, and the waters are considered just as sacred as those of the great river itself.
Continue your excursion with an orientation drive through Mumbai passing prominent landmarks such as Flora Fountain, the university and Victoria Terminus. The latter is a most remarkable railway station, inspired by St Pancras Station in London. It was built during Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee year and 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 use the station every day.
After the visit, drive back to the pier.
- This tour involves 0.7 miles (1.2km) of walking 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 or operate in reverse. Duration of the tour may vary due to traffic/other unforeseen circumstances.
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