On arrival in Delhi, India's capital, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, get to know your Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort and fellow travellers during a Welcome Dinner. Stay Two Nights: Crowe Plaza New Delhi Okhla (D)

Today you will explore Old and New Delhi, India's vibrant metropolis blends medieval, colonial and modern architecture. . Visit Jama Masjid, a 17th-century mosque, India's largest before setting out on a rickshaw ride. Continue to New Delhi to visit Humayun's Tomb. Thought to have inspired the magnificent Taj Mahal, the World Heritage-listed tomb perfectly combines elements of Persian and Mughal architecture in its design. You will also explore the wide leafy avenues, stop at Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Gandhi, admire India Gate and the 13th-century Qutab Minar, a World Heritage-listed monument and the world's tallest brick minaret. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Take a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Old Delhi's lively Chadni Chowk bazaar.

Transfer to the station where you'll board the Gatimaan Express to Agra. Once in Agra, embark on a sightseeing tour of the World Heritage-listed Agra Fort. One of the city's most historic sites, the fort has served as both a military point and a royal residence in the past. Continue to the iconic Taj Mahal. The structure took over 22 years to build and is a wonder to behold. Its glittering white marble domes inspire awe, and almost seem to change colours throughout the day depending on the position of the sun. Stay: Agra, Hotel Clarks Shiraz (B/D)

Transfer from Agra to Ranthambore National Park, stopping en route at the abandoned ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, a World Heritage-site for a guided tour. This town to the west of Agra was once known as the City of Victory. Built in the 16th century, Fatehpur Sikri is home to a number of impressive monuments and temples. Enjoy lunch at Laxmi Vilas Palace Bharatpur before boarding the Shatabdi Express train for the last leg of your trip to Ranthambore National Park. Dinner is at your hotel. Stay Two Nights: Ranthambore, Ranthambore Regency (B/L/D)

Today, search for the elusive Bengal tiger on guided morning and afternoon game drives through Ranthambore National Park. Ranthambore is also home to many more unique animals including leopards, sloth bears and striped hyenas. Enjoy an evening talk by a local naturalist about the park and its diverse wildlife. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: With an expert guide, go in search of the Bengal tiger. Ranthambore is one of the best parks to view this elusive cat, so make sure to have your camera at the ready.

Spend the morning at your leisure. After lunch, depart by coach to the picturesque and historic city of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Stay Two Nights: Jaipur, Clarks Amer (B/L/D)

This morning is dedicated to an in-depth exploration of Jaipur. Begin with a guided tour of Amber Fort. The striking architecture is a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. Its exterior contrasts with the interior with many of the rooms elaborately painted with decadent mirrors and precious stones. Enjoy time at your leisure for lunch before jumping right back into your sightseeing. Visit sites including the City Palace and the World Heritage –listed 18th-century Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory, and drive by Jaipur's most distinctive landmark, the ‘Palace of the Winds'. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Explore the ‘Pink City” of Jaipur and discover why its beautiful buildings are coloured in this distinctive hue. Spend the morning touring through the Amber Fort, learning about its fascinating history.

Transfer to the airport for your included flight to Mumbai, set on India's west coast beside the Arabian Sea. You'll be transferred to your hotel before observing a cooking demonstration, introducing you to the rich and vibrant food culture of the city. Stay: Two Night Stay, Mumbai, Trident Nariman Point (B/D)

Rise early for a Mumbai by dawn walking tour under the beautiful morning light. Visit the fishing docks of Colaba, see the colonial architecture of DN Road, experience the bustling environment of Crawford Market, explore the fascinating neighbourhoods of Byculla and Dadar, and admire the colours of Mahalaxmi Dhobhi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry.

Return to your hotel for breakfast and spend the rest of the morning at your leisure before taking an afternoon sightseeing tour of Mumbai icons including the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal, a 19th-century World Heritage listed railway station and Mani Bhavan, Gandhi's former home and now a museum. Enjoy a delicious Farewell Dinner at your hotel. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Discover Mumbai by foot as the city comes to life in the sun's early rays on a dawn walking tour.

After breakfast, say goodbye to your Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort and transfer to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for your included flight to Negombo, Sri Lanka.

On arrival, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. Stay: Negombo, Jetwing Lagoon (B)

Today, venture to the World Heritage-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. Home to over 150 incredible Buddha paintings and statues, Dambulla is the largest and most well-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. Explore the five sanctuaries, each containing ornate statues and ancient art relating to the life of Buddha. Later this afternoon, arrive at Aliya Resort and Spa, your home for the next two nights. Tonight, savour a special Sri Lankan Welcome Dinner. Stay Two Nights: Sigiriya, Aliya Resort and Spa (B/D)

Insider Experience: Relax overlooking Sigiriya Rock Fortress at Aliya Resort and Spa.

Following breakfast, head to the World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa for a tour of its ancient city. Once a prosperous religious centre, it was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993 AD. Explore the fascinating ruins and discover a world of archaeological treasures. Have lunch in Polonnaruwa before returning to the hotel.

This afternoon, you may wish to embark on a safari to see the herds of elephants in Minneriya National Park (additional expense). (B/L)

This morning, visit the World Heritage-listed ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya. Rising 200 metres above the central plains, this spectacular geological formation was once home to an ancient civilisation. If you're feeling active, climb the open staircases to the top of Sigiriya and take in the impressive views at its summit. Alternatively, visit the Sigiriya Museum. Take a guided tour of the area before departing for Kandy enjoying a lunch enroute.

Later today, you will arrive in the historic city of Kandy. Depart on a guided tour of Kandy's major sights, including the World Heritage-listed Temple of the Tooth. Later, experience a traditional Sri Lankan cultural performance featuring lively drummers and energetic dancers performing music and dance developed in the courts of the local kings. Stay Two Nights: Kandy, Amaya Hills (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Stay for two nights at the peaceful Amaya Hills. Situated in the hilltops of Kandy, the hotel looks out to the green mountains of Hanthana.

Today, you will visit the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya. Home to over 4,000 species of exotic flora and fauna, the gardens are renowned for their collection of beautiful orchids. You may choose to spend the rest of the day in Kandy exploring at your leisure or simply return to your hotel for an afternoon of relaxation. (B/L)

This morning, journey onwards to the lush, green hills of Nuwara Eliya. En route, visit one of the many famous tea plantations and factories. Here, learn all about the traditions behind tea making while you sample some of the world's finest Ceylon tea.

This afternoon, take in a tour of Nuwara Eliya often referred to as “Little England” as it was favoured by the British civil servants as a summer retreat and is home to several colonial buildlings. Stay: Nuwara Eliya, Jetwing St. Andrews (B/L)

This morning, head to Nanu Oya to board a train for the scenic journey to Ella (subject to availability). As you travel, take in the beautiful hill country. Later, continue to Yala where you'll check in to your hotel. Stay Two Nights: Jetwing Yala (B/D)

Insider Experience: Take an enchanting train ride through tea plantations and picturesque hill country to Ella. Nestled amid splendid vegetation, enjoy both style and privacy at Jetwing Yala.

Board a Jeep and venture out on a morning safari in Yala National Park. The park is home to over 32 species of mammals including elephants and sloth bears. Its star attraction, however, is the spectacular Sri Lankan leopard. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, or head out on an optional afternoon safari for a chance to see more of the park's wonderful wildlife (additional expense). (B/L)

Set off early for your Insider Experience. Journey to Galle, stopping en route for lunch. A fortified city, Galle is steeped in history. Here you'll depart on a walking tour and see many of its major landmarks. Journey through the Dutch-influenced streets of the World Heritage-listed old town, observing the unique architecture and admiring the fort's historic gate and iconic lighthouse. Continue to your beach-side hotel in Kosgoda. Stay Two Nights: Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort (B/L)

Insider Experience: A morning visit to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where displaced baby elephants are cared for and rehabilitated.

The day is free for you to enjoy at your relaxing beach-front hotel. You may like to join an optional tour to the Lunuganga Estate, the country home of renowned Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa (additional expense). (B)

After breakfast, depart for the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo. Take a guided tour of the city and see many of its sights including bustling Pettah bazaar, Valukarama Temple and Parliament. You will also get to explore the city further on an exhilirating tuk tuk ride. Stay: Colombo, Cinnamon Grand Colombo (B/D)

Insider Experience: Enjoy a special Farewell Dinner at The Lagoon, a seafood restaurant.

Your holiday comes to an end this morning with a transfer to the Bandaranaike International airport for your onward flight. (B)

On arrival in Delhi, India's capital, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, get to know your Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort and fellow travellers during a Welcome Dinner. Stay Two Nights: Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla (D)

Today you will explore Old and New Delhi, India's vibrant metropolis blends medieval, colonial and modern architecture. Visit Jama Masjid, a 17th-century mosque, India's largest before setting out on a rickshaw ride.

Continue to New Delhi to visit Humayun's Tomb. Thought to have inspired the magnificent Taj Mahal, the World Heritage-listed tomb perfectly combines elements of Persian and Mughal architecture in its design. Explore the wide leafy avenues and later discover Gandhi Smriti and learn about Mahatma Gandhi. This museum, dedicated to his life, is where he spent his final 144 days before being shot in 1948. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Take a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Old Delhi's lively Chadni Chowk bazaar.

Set off this morning to the station where you will board the Gatimaan Express, travelling from Delhi to Agra, a journey that takes just over an hour and a half, on India's first semi high-speed train and the fastest train in India. Enjoy simple Indian snacks as you relax in fully air-conditioned carriages and enjoy the passing scenery. Once in Agra, embark on your Insider Experience and later a sightseeing tour of the World Heritage-listed Agra Fort. One of the city's most historic sites, the fort has served as both a military point and a royal residence in the past. Stay: Agra, Hotel Clarks Shiraz (B/D)

Insider Experience: Be in awe at the beauty of the iconic Taj Mahal, the white marble mausoleum inlaid with semiprecious stones. Commissioned in 1631 by the fifth Mughal emperor to house the tomb of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. It also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself. The structure took over 22 years to build and is a wonder to behold. Its awe-inspiring glittering white marble domes almost seem to change colours throughout the day depending on the position of the sun.

Transfer from Agra to Ranthambore National Park, stopping en route at the abandoned ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, a World Heritage-site for a guided tour. This town to the west of Agra was once known as the City of Victory. Built in the 16th-century, Fatehpur Sikri is home to several impressive monuments and temples. Remarkably, this deserted city remains almost exactly as it was more than 400 years ago, providing an insight into the opulent lifestyle of the Mughal Empire.

Enjoy your Insider Experience lunch at Laxmi Vilas Palace Bharatpur before boarding the Shatabdi Express train for the last leg of your trip to Ranthambore National Park. Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages as you travel in air-conditioned comfort, taking in the scenery. Dinner tonight is at your hotel. Stay Two Nights: Ranthambore, The Sher Garh (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Dine on a lunch of traditional Rajasthani cuisine in regal surroundings at Laxmi Vilas Palace, residence of the former Jat rulers of Bharatpur.

Today, search for the elusive Bengal tiger on guided morning and afternoon game drives through Ranthambore National Park. Ranthambore is also home to many more unique animals including leopards, sloth bears and striped hyenas. Enjoy an evening talk by a local naturalist about the park and its diverse wildlife. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: With an expert guide, go in search of the Bengal tiger. Ranthambore is one of the best parks to view this elusive cat, so make sure to have your camera at the ready.

Spend the morning at your leisure. After lunch, depart by coach to the picturesque and historic city of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. The bustling modern city is one of the three corners of the golden triangle that includes Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. In 1876 the local ruler decided to paint the city in shades of pink in anticipation of a visit from the Prince of Wales. The prince (who later became King Edward VIII) named Jaipur the ‘Pink City.' After a declaration by the Queen of Jaipur that she too had a fondness of this colour, a law was passed that all future buildings were to be pink. Stay Two Nights: Jaipur, Clarks Amer (B/L/D)

Today, spend the day on your Insider Experiences. Drink in the striking architecture blending Hindu and Islamic styles and visit such incredible sites including the City Place, and the World Heritage – listed 18th-century Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory. Drive by Jaipur's most distinctive landmark, the Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of the Winds. Completed in 1799, it's one of India's most recognizable buildings. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Explore the ‘Pink City” of Jaipur, discover why its beautiful buildings are coloured in this distinctive hue and explore Amber Fort, learning about its fascinating history and uncover many of the rooms elaborately painted with decadent mirrors and precious stones.

Transfer to the airport for your included flight to Mumbai, set on India's west coast beside the Arabian Sea. You'll be transferred to your hotel before observing a cooking demonstration, introducing you to the rich and vibrant food culture of the city. Stay Two Nights: Mumbai, Trident Nariman Point (B/D)

Rise early for your Insider Experience. Return to your hotel for breakfast and spend the rest of the morning at your leisure before taking an afternoon sightseeing tour of Mumbai icons including the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal, a 19th-century World Heritage listed railway station and admire the colours of Mahalaxmi Dhobhi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry. Enjoy a delicious Farewell Dinner at your hotel. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Discover Mumbai by foot as the city comes to life in the sun's early rays on a dawn walking tour. Visit the fishing docks of Colaba, see the colonial architecture of DN Road, experience the bustling environment of Crawford Market, and explore the fascinating neighbourhoods.

After breakfast, say goodbye to your Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort and transfer to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for your included flight to Colombo, Sri Lanka. On arrival, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Afterwards, enjoy your Insider Experiences at the hotel. Stay: Negombo, Jetwing Lagoon (B/D)

Insider Experience: Listen to a talk on Geoffrey Bawa and appreciate his influence on architecture across Sri Lanka, and Asia in general. Savour a Sri Lankan Welcome Dinner hosted by the head chef who will explain the use of herbs and spices in the local cuisine.

Early risers may want to visit the fish market to watch the boats returning with their catch and the vendors bargaining for the best selection (additional cost). After breakfast travel to Dambulla where you will have some time at leisure.

Later, venture to the World Heritage-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. Home to over 150 incredible Buddha paintings and statues, Dambulla is the largest and most well-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. Explore the five sanctuaries, each containing ornate statues and ancient art relating to the life of Buddha. Tonight, enjoy your Insider Experience before a delicious dinner at the hotel. Stay Two Nights: Habarana Village by Cinnamon (B/D)

Insider Experience: Be entertained by a dance performance at the Habarana Cultural Center. Watch as the dancers showcase a selection of different styles of regional dance forms.

Following breakfast, head to the World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa for a tour of its ancient city. Once a prosperous religious centre, it was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993 AD. Explore the fascinating ruins and discover a world of archaeological treasures. Have your Insider Experience and dine on a traditional farmer's lunch before returning to the hotel. This afternoon, you may wish to embark on a safari to see the herds of elephants in Minneriya National Park (additional expense). (B/L)

Insider Experience: A fascinating cultural experience awaits you today. Meet local villagers for a herbal drink experience and be intrigued by the process of using traditional ingredients in making energy boosting herbal drinks.

Set off early for your Insider Experience. Rising 200 metres above the central plains, this spectacular geological formation was once home to an ancient civilisation. Enjoy breakfast back at the hotel before departing for Kandy. Tonight, enjoy an included international buffet dinner at the hotel's main restaurant. Stay Two Nights: Kandy, Thilanka Hotel (B/D)

Insider Experience: Watch sunrise from the top of Sigiriya, the World Heritage-listed rock fortress built by King Kassyapa I in the fifth Century and served as a royal citadel for more than 18 years.

This morning, you may like to choose from the following excursions (at an additional cost). Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens originally created in the 14th Century as a pleasure garden for the Queens. Home to over 4,000 species of plants, ferns, shrubs, palm trees, spices and medicinal plants, these are the largest botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. Or perhaps, join a cookery demonstration with a local family and discover how they use traditional herbs and spices to create delicious meals before indulging in authentic Sri Lankan fare for lunch.

This afternoon, take part in a walking tour of the city of Kandy with its iconic monuments, bustling marketplace, and vibrant shopping opportunities. Tonight, enjoy your Insider Experience. (B/L)

Insider Experience: Witness the evening puja at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, conducted by the resident monks accompanied to the sounds of drums and burning incense.

This morning, journey onwards to the lush, green hills of Nuwara Eliya. En route, visit one of the many famous tea estates for your Insider Experience. Your lunch is another Insider Experience. This afternoon, take in a guided tour of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as 'Little England' as it was favoured by the British civil servants as a summer retreat and is home to several colonial buildings. Admire stunning waterfalls, vast tea terraces and expansive vegetable fields along the way. Stay Two Nights: Nuwara Eliya, Araliya Green Hills (B/L)

Insider Experience: Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about the traditions behind tea making and the processes involved in the production of tea. Then try out your newfound knowledge with a special tea tasting, sampling a selection of the finest Ceylon tea. Sit down and indulge in a High Tea style lunch at the Grand Hotel, a timeless property nestled amid lush surrounds.

This morning, embark on your Insider Experience. Afterwards, journey to Ella for lunch. Return to Nuwara Eliya, stopping enroute to visit to Nazareth Chapel of the good shepherd convent in Bandarawela, commissioned in 1961 by the nuns of the Good Shepherd. (B/L)

Insider Experience: Take an enchanting train ride through the picturesque hill country. The journey from Nanu Oya to Demodara is considered one of the most scenic railway journeys in Sri Lanka. Sit back and enjoy stunning highland vistas of emerald tea plantations and lush landscapes as the unmistakeable aroma of pure Ceylon tea fills the air.

Journey from Nuwara Eliya to Yala National Park. Enjoy lunch on arrival then board a jeep and venture out on an afternoon safari in one of the country's oldest and largest national parks. The park is home to over 32 species of mammals including elephants and sloth bears. Its star attraction, however, is the spectacular Sri Lankan leopard. Tonight, enjoy your Insider Experience. Stay: Jetwing Yala (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Spend time with the Resort Naturalist sharing his knowledge on and experience in tracking the abundant wildlife found across the National Park.

This morning, you may choose an optional early morning Yala game drive safari (additional expense). Afterwards, journey to Udawalawa then embark on your Insider Experience. This afternoon transfer to Galle and check into your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. Stay Two Nights: Raddisson Blu Resort Galle (B)

Insider Experience: Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home and learn how the displaced baby elephants are cared for and rehabilitated with the ultimate hope of re-introducing them back into the wild, as soon as they are fit enough to fend for themselves. Watch the elephant calves being fed with rich nutrient milk formula.

This morning explore the Dutch Fort of Galle on foot, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with its atmospheric paved streets and colonial heritage. Visit the Maritime Museum, see the lighthouse and the crumbling bastions along the way.

This afternoon, you may choose to partake in a mask carving and painting experience at the hotel or a cooking demonstration in Galle (both at additional expense). (B)

After breakfast, depart for the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo. Take a tuk tuk tour of the city and see many of its sights including the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, the Pettah bazaar area, the Wolfendhal Dutch Church, and the Old Parliament complex. Head back to your hotel and relax before your Insider Experience tonight. Stay: Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside (B/D)

Insider Experience: Savour a special Farewell Dinner, a final Sri Lankan feast at the highly acclaimed Dining Room inside the hotel on a menu specially designed for you.

Your holiday comes to an end this morning with a transfer to the Bandaranaike International airport for your onward flight. (B)