Discover Kerala & Sri Lanka: Islands & Ruins - 18 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You will stay in simple hotels/guest houses for 16 nights and a homestay for 1 night. Accommodation styles in India can vary in service, efficiency, and cleanliness. Some nights may involve multi-share rooms (4-6 people) with shared bathroom facilities.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, walking, tuk-tuks, ferries, local buses, trains, and an internal flight. Be aware that road travel in India and Sri Lanka can be different from Western countries, with varying driving rules and potentially longer travel times.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, any flights noted on the itinerary for this tour are included. Please note there is a 15kg luggage limit for internal flights, with extra weight possibly incurring a fee.

• Are there any health considerations for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and personal medical requirements, as leaders cannot administer drugs, and medical facilities may be remote.

• Are there any exceptions for rooming or the 'My Own Room' option?

  Yes, for Night 10, there is an exception to the 'My Own Room' option.

• Does the tour operator have an email newsletter I can subscribe to?

  Yes, you can subscribe to the adventure travel e-newsletter for news, trip information, and contests at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/. You can also sign up for Planeterra's monthly news.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the tour?

  For dire need, first call the local representative or local office. Specific numbers are provided for airport transfer complications in India (+91 98115 90513, +91 99584 46907), for general emergencies the South Asia Manager Sorab (+91 88518 06614), and global sales teams for other regions.

• How much emergency money should I have access to?

  We recommend having access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances, such as route changes due to natural disasters.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). They provide information, suggestions for activities and dining, and introduce local friends. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, with an average of 12-15.

• How much spending money do I need for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveler for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Please consider your own habits.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age for this trip is 18 years.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and a single supplement is not involved. Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join without proof of coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000).

• Are there any special events or festivals to be aware of during the tour?

  If you travel around March, you might experience the Holi festival in India. For example, March 8, 2023, or March 25, 2024.

• What is the recommended dress code for this tour?

  Conservative dress is recommended in Asia, especially in India and Sri Lanka. Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (long pants, long skirts, shirts) is advised. Shorts are generally not allowed in religious buildings or family homes. A shawl or scarf is useful for temple visits.

• Is tipping customary on this trip?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (approx. 10%) is customary in India and Sri Lanka. Recommendations for local guides and drivers range from $4-5 USD per person per day. Tipping your CEO ($8-10 USD per person per day as a guideline) is also appreciated for outstanding service.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a Janardhana Swamy Temple visit in Varkala, Kathakali Dance in Kochi, visits to Dambulla Cave Temple, Minneriya National Park Safari, Polonnaruwa Ancient Capital, or Sigiriya Rock Fortress in Sigiriya, Temple of the Sacred Tooth or a cultural show in Kandy, Horton Plains Trek, Trek to Ella Rock, Nine Arches Bridge or waterfalls in Ella, and Dolphin Watching in Unawatuna/Hikkaduwa.

• What are some of the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include a homestay in Alleppey, visiting Kollam’s fishing docks, visiting the Sthree Craft Shop and Café, exploring a Spice Garden, and trekking to Little Adam’s Peak.

• What are the safety and security considerations for this trip?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. Use good judgment for optional activities and stay in groups at night, taking taxis if needed. Swimming and water-based activities are at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide.

• What should I do if I experience problems upon arrival?

  If you have a pre-booked transfer and are not met within 30 minutes of clearing customs, contact the emergency numbers provided or take a taxi to the starting hotel.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that connects local communities to tourism benefits by developing and supporting community-owned businesses, such as those that empower women and youth or protect the environment. The tour operator is its largest corporate donor.

• Are there any specific cultural sensitivities or important notes to be aware of?

  India can present a culture shock due to pollution, poverty, and crowds, as well as different attitudes towards timekeeping, cleanliness, privacy, and service (e.g., late trains, temperamental plumbing, power cuts). In both India and Sri Lanka, road travel can be challenging with different driving norms and longer travel times. It is illegal to display body art or wear clothing with Buddha images; please keep them covered. Some cultural sites in Sri Lanka may also restrict entry for people wearing hats, hijabs, or with covered faces. Patience and a sense of humor are highly recommended.

• Are internal flights included, and what are the baggage allowances?

  Yes, internal flights mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour services. For internal flights in India, a baggage allowance of 1 piece up to 15kg is permitted, with potential extra fees for overweight luggage. International flights are not included.

• What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?

  The tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who helps manage the trip, provides information about destinations, suggests activities and local dining, and introduces you to local contacts. While not traditional guides, they have broad knowledge of the countries. Local guides are also used for specific sites.

• What safety and security measures should I be aware of during the tour?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving expensive jewelry at home. Hotels often have safety deposit boxes, and a lock for your luggage is advisable. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can adjust the itinerary for safety. During free time, exercise good judgment for optional activities as their safety is not guaranteed by the tour operator. While cities are generally safe by day, travel in small groups and use taxis for night excursions. Water-based activities should ideally be guided; swimming and snorkeling are at your own risk.

• What are the visa and passport requirements for this trip to India and Sri Lanka?

  A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity is required. All travelers must obtain a valid Indian visa (e-Visa may be available for some nationalities) and complete an e-Arrival Card online before entering India (mandatory from Feb 2026). For Sri Lanka, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is mandatory for foreign nationals from October 15th, 2025. Always check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date requirements.

• What is the recommended dress code, especially when visiting religious or local sites?

  Conservative dress is recommended, especially in India and Sri Lanka. Please wear loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops, as they may restrict entry to religious sites and family homes. Displaying body art or wearing clothing with Buddha images is illegal in some areas and should be kept covered. Some cultural sites in Sri Lanka may also restrict entry for people wearing hats, hijabs, or with covered faces.

• Are there any health considerations or medical requirements for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. For pre-existing medical conditions, a medical questionnaire signed by a physician is required. Please note that tour leaders cannot administer drugs.

• How much spending money should I budget for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveler depending on personal habits for drinks, shopping, and additional activities. It is also recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What is the customary tipping etiquette for local guides, drivers, and the Chief Experience Officer (CEO)?

  Tipping is customary in India and Sri Lanka (approximately 10% for service providers like waiters). For local guides and drivers, a range of $4-5 USD per person per day is recommended. For the Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a guideline of $8-10 USD per person per day is suggested.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include: Janardhana Swamy Temple Visit in Varkala, Ayurvedic Massage in Dharamshala, Kathakali Dance in Kochi, Dambulla Cave Temple Visit, Minneriya National Park Safari, Sigiriya Rock Fortress Visit, and Polonnaruwa Ancient Capital Visit in Sigiriya, Royal Botanical Gardens Visit, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Tour, and Kandyan Cultural Dance in Kandy, Horton Plains Trek, Trek to Little Adam's Peak, Nine Arches Bridge, and waterfalls in Ella, and a Dolphin Watching Tour in Unawatuna.

• Are there any extra costs for solo travelers, or is shared accommodation standard?

  Solo travelers are not required to pay a single supplement as group trips are designed for shared accommodation, pairing travelers of the same sex. If you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive a single room for all nights except Night 10.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the trip?

  You will travel by a variety of modes including private vehicle, walking, tuk-tuk, ferry, local bus, train, and airplane. Please note that road travel in India and Sri Lanka can be different from Western countries, with varying traffic rules and longer travel times for shorter distances.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. Other meals are generally not included to offer flexibility in choosing dining options. India is particularly excellent for vegetarian food.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 18 travelers, with an average of 12.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You can expect a variety of simple hotels and guest houses for 16 nights, along with a 1-night homestay. Accommodation styles can vary, and some nights may involve multi-share rooms (4-6 people) with shared bathroom facilities. Power cuts can be a regular occurrence in some areas.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. Generally, meals are not included where there are various eating options to provide flexibility.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. It is recommended to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page and use tools like Equaldex for specific destination information to ensure comfort and safety.

• Are laundry facilities available on this trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for India and Sri Lanka?

  All travelers need a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). For India, a valid Indian visa is required, which can be an e-Visa or a physical visa. For Sri Lanka, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is mandatory for foreign nationals visiting for tourism from October 15th, 2025.

• What should I know about currency and money exchange on this tour?

  Currency exchange rates fluctuate; refer to www.xe.com for daily rates. ATMs are available in major cities and accept Visa and Mastercard. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee.

• Are there any specific rules or codes of conduct for this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and possessing or using them, or utilizing paid sex workers, will lead to expulsion from the group without refund. Respect towards local people and cultures is paramount.