Indian Splendor Tour 2026

VACAYA OASIS @ Maharajas’ Express
APRIL 10-20, 2026

Our journey to India begins in:
We’ll also house an email archive on this page, too. This archive will feature all the trip-specific communications we have with you throughout your pre-resort experience with us. That way, if you happen to lose a general email somewhere along the way, you’ll be able to find it right here.

VACAYA’s mission is to give you everything you need with plenty of time to ensure a totally stress-free experience. Get ready for your vacaya!

Many people ask us “what will the VACAYA Resort experience be like?” VACAYA Resorts are certainly more laid back than our big-ship cruises, perfect for those seeking fun, relaxation, adventure, and romance.

The VACAYA Resort rhythm is… Relaxed. Easy. Fun. Balanced. Luxurious. Indulgent. Sporty. Unscripted. Adventurous.

EMAIL ARCHIVE

All emails to our Booked Guests are available here.

July 8, 2025 – Post-Event Sri Lanka Add-On

SRI LANKA ADD-ON

Discover the perfect extension to your once-in-a-lifetime India journey with VACAYA’s exclusive 4-night Sri Lankan adventure – a fantastic way to explore more of this beautiful region and create unforgettable memories. After your time on the Maharajas’ Express, this add-on offers a chance to relax (a bit) and discover the cultural treasures of Sri Lanka.

We have the ability to host eight rooms for just 16 lucky adventurers, so you’ll want to reserve your spot quickly! Sadly, once those eight rooms are gone, we’re unable to secure additional inventory.

After a warm welcome at Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll head to charming Negombo to unwind and settle in. Then, your journey continues to Sigiriya, home to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress – a stunning highlight blending history, art, and spectacular views. Experience a private jeep safari at Minneriya, where you might catch a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s famous elephant gathering, a truly memorable wildlife moment.

Enjoy an immersive village trek to experience local life first-hand, then travel to Kandy, where you’ll visit historic temples, including the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy traditional Sri Lankan dance and cultural performances, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage – all complemented by delicious local cuisine.

This extension is a great way to add a bit of adventure, culture, and relaxation to your trip, with experiences that’ll stay with you long after the journey ends.

 

VACAYA 4-Night Sri Lankan Adventure Itinerary

  • Day 1 – 20 April 2026: Arrival & Negombo

    • Transfer from The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel to Mumbai Airport (BOM)
    • Upon arrival in Colombo, welcome at Bandaranaike International Airport
    • Transfer from CMB Airport to charming Negombo to unwind and relax at the hotel
    • Meals Included: Pre-Flight Breakfast @ The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel Mumbai, then On Your Own
  • Day 2 – 21 April 2026: Negombo to Sigiriya
    • After breakfast, transfer to Sigiriya (approx. 3.5 hours)
    • Check-in to your hotel and enjoy leisure time
    • At 2:45pm, participate in a private jeep safari at Minneriya National Park and witness the famous elephant gathering
    • Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
  • Day 3 – 22 April 2026: Sigiriya
    • Early Morning – Visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for spectacular views and history
    • Return to the hotel for breakfast
    • Late Morning – Hiriwadunna Village Trek offers an immersive cultural experience in rural Sri Lanka, including a Bullock Cart Ride and a serene Catamaran Safari across Hiriwadunna Lake, which will showcase traditional farming and local life. Enjoy a unique snack of tea and Sri Lankan Halape, then savor a traditional village lunch.
    • Afternoon: Tour of the Medieval Capital City of Polonnaruwa, declared an UNESCO heritage site in 1982
    • Return to the hotel for relaxation and dinner
    • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
  • Day 4 – 23 April 2026: Sigiriya to Kandy (approximately 3 hours)
    • En-route visit Dambulla Cave Temple – the largest cave sanctuary in Sri Lanka
    • Visit a local spice garden in Matale, learning about Sri Lankan spices and their uses
    • Arrive in Kandy, check-in to your hotel
    • Explore Kandy’s scenic sites, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic and a cultural dance performance
    • Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
  • Day 5 – 24 April 2026: Departure
    • Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight (this transfer will take approximately 4.5 hours and our expected arrival time at CMB Airport is around 1pm; we recommend long-haul flights at 4pm local time or later)
    • Meals Included: Breakfast

As always, the itinerary is subject to change based on a wide range of factors. Rest assured, if something is lost, it’ll be replaced by something of equal/greater value. If that’s not possible, a refund will be issued.

 

OUR HOTELS

Night 1 – Negombo – Wattura Resort & Spa

The Wattura Resort & Spa in Negombo is a luxurious retreat set amid lush gardens and tranquil surroundings. Offering elegant villas, modern amenities, and a serene atmosphere, it is the perfect place to unwind and relax. The resort features a spa, outdoor pool, and exquisite dining options, making it an ideal haven for rejuvenation before we begin our Sri Lankan adventures.

Nights 2 & 3 – Sigiriya – Water Garden Sigiriya Hotel

The Water Garden Sigiriya Hotel offers a luxurious and tranquil escape nestled amidst lush greenery near Sigiriya. Featuring contemporary design, spacious rooms, and stunning views of the surrounding gardens and water features, the hotel provides a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. With excellent amenities and a focus on nature, it’s an ideal retreat for exploring Sri Lanka’s famous cultural sites while enjoying comfort and elegance.

Night 4 – Kandy – Jetwing Kandy Gallery Hotel

The Jetwing Kandy Gallery Hotel offers a stylish and contemporary retreat in the heart of Kandy. Surrounded by lush gardens, it features modern accommodations, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Ideal for exploring Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, the hotel combines comfort with a touch of luxury, making it a perfect base for cultural adventures and relaxation.

 

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Accommodation for 4 nights
  • Daily breakfast; lunch in Sigiriya on Day 3; dinners as specified
  • Private air-conditioned motor coach transportation with driver-guide
  • All entrance fees for scheduled sightseeing (Sigiriya Fortress, Minneriya Safari, Dambulla Cave Temple, Spice Garden, Temple of the Tooth Relic)
  • Cultural performances and village trek activities
  • Meet & greet services at the airport, arrival and departure transfers

 

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • International airfare to Colombo and travel insurance
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and drinks outside of meals included
  • Optional activities beyond the scheduled itinerary
  • Visa fees, customs charges, or any COVID-related tests (if applicable) or fees
  • Extra services requested (special room requests, early check-in, late check-out)
  • Any additional activities or excursions not specified

Recommended Flight from Mumbai (BOM) to Colombo (CMB) on April 20:

  • Air India 276 – Departs 12:25pm Arrives 3pm

 

PRICING

Per Person Price (based on double occupancy): 2997 USD

Pre-Paid Gratuities: 157 USD per person

 

HOW TO BOOK

To book this add-on, simply follow these instructions:

  • Go to MY TRIPS and log in
  • Find your 2026 Indian Splendor Tour reservation
  • Click the pink VIEW/MODIFY button
  • Click on the pink ADD MORE OPTIONS button
  • Click the pink SELECT button
  • Tick the boxes for you and the guest you’re purchasing the option for
  • Click the pink CONTINUE button
  • Click the pink CHECK OUT button
  • Then, just follow the prompts