India & Sri Lanka: Mumbai, Colombo and Beach time

About the destination: Chaotic, cosmopolitan Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is India's commercial and cultural center and its most dynamic city. The city's colorful mix of cultures, ethnicities, religions and languages makes it the most cosmopolitan city in India. Bollywood or the Indian Hollywood is here in Mumbai and hundreds of films are made every year in Mumbai studios. Mumbai is a city of contrasts. The skyscrapers of its skyline, the Gothic and Art Déco architecture of its colonial past and the Indo-Saracenic buildings of the city’s more traditional side give it an eclectic vibe that makes the city quite unique. There is a lot to see in Mumbai, but the main sights are concentrated in South Mumbai. The main attractions to see in Mumbai are the Gateway of India on the seafront, where you can take a day trip to the famous Elephanta Caves, the Prince of Wales Museum, which houses a lot of artefacts worth seeing, the Jehangir Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Modern Art, the Banganga Tank, the Walkeshwar temples, the Hanging Gardens, the Parsi Towers of Silence, Mahatma Gandhi's residence, now converted into a museum, and the Bhau Daji Lad Museum. Exotic Mumbai is a fantastic and exciting destination and India's most culturally active, lively and happening city.

About the destination: Colombo, located on the banks of the Kelani River and spread along the coast looking out onto the Indian Ocean, is the largest city and the financial and commercial capital of Sri Lanka. Colombo is considered the country’s capital, but the administrative capital is Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, a suburb east of Colombo. The streets of Galle Fort have a lot to show for the city’s colonial heritage, Portuguese, British and Dutch left their mark here. To learn more about the Dutch-era in Colombo, visit The Dutch Period Museum. The city offers a fascinating blend of cultures and religions, around the city you’ll find mosques, churches and temples. The Gangaramaya Temple is the best-known Buddhist place of worship in Colombo. It includes a museum that houses a huge collection of Buddhist relics from around the world. The Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam Kovil Hindu temple is a colorful and embellished temple worth a visit. The Wolvendaal Church, a church built by the Dutch settlers, is an impressive building and a must-see of Colombo. Colombo is often overlooked by tourists who come to the country to hit the beach, but the city is the most happening place in the country and offers high-end shopping, a lively nightlife, tasty restaurants and interesting historical sights.

About the destination: Welcome to the West Coast of Sri Lanka — a tropical paradise where the golden sands are as welcoming as the warm smiles of the local people. Here, you'll discover a seamless blend of serene beaches, rich cultural heritage, and exotic wildlife, all under the caress of the balmy Indian Ocean breeze. Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Colombo, the commercial capital and the most cosmopolitan city on the island. Colombo is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modern comforts and colonial charm. Visit the historic Fort area, explore the diverse culinary scene, or shop for everything from traditional handicrafts to luxury brands. As the sun sets, take a stroll along the Galle Face Green and watch the sky turn into a canvas of fiery hues. Venture further down the coast to the historic city of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's crowning jewel is the imposing Galle Fort, which stands as a testament to the island’s colonial past under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. Wander through the fort's narrow cobblestone streets, visit the iconic lighthouse, and indulge in the artistic aura of local galleries and unique boutiques. Outside the fort walls, you'll find pristine beaches like Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa, renowned for their coral reefs and surf breaks, perfect for both relaxation and adventure seekers. No trip to the West Coast would be complete without experiencing the natural wonders that abound. Embark on a river safari on the Madu Ganga, where you'll navigate through mangrove forests and witness a diverse ecosystem. Or visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery to learn about conservation efforts for these majestic creatures. Whether it's the allure of the sea, the charm of ancient fortresses, or the call of the wild, Sri Lanka's West Coast promises an unforgettable escape that will capture your heart and leave you yearning for more.