Temples Archives ⋆ FREE travel plans for independent travellers

🇪🇬 EGYPT

This Egypt itinerary is packed full of places and sights that you just have to see to believe. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Egypt itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Cairo (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨Kempinski Nile (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax after your flight in the stunning rooftop pool of your hotel.
3	A great place to start any visit to Egypt, the Egyptian Museum is bursting with ancient artifacts which help you begin to understand the vast and fascinating history of this nation. From the serenity of the museum to the cacophony of Cairo’s streets, where I recommend you do a walking tour of the Old Coptic City.			To avoid the crowds try to get to the museum early and start your visit as far away from the entrance doors as possible.
4	🚄Cairo to Aswan flight (Book >)	Evening	Evening	🏨Sofitel Legend Old Cataract (Book >)	All hotels >
	For the first half of today you’re going to visit the Pyramids of Giza. If you’ve time, take a walking tour of Khan el-Khalili Market.			Take cash for the market, and be sure to haggle.
5	Hop on a flying tour to Abu Simbel.			Your hotel is in the perfect location for sunset.
6	⛴️Aswan (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨5* ship
	Start your cruise to Luxor with a visit to Aswan’s High Dam and Philae Temple. Board your 5* ship and take in the views over the Nile.			Cut down on plastic bottle by bringing a filter water bottle.
7	⛴️Aswan to Kom Ombo cruise ⛴️Kom Ombo to Edfu cruise	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon	🏨5* ship
	This afternoon your cruise will set off to the 2,200-year old double temple of Kom Ombo. Evening sail downstream to Edfu.			Ask about using a private guide for your temple visits.
8	⛴️Edfu to Luxor cruise	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning Arr: Evening	🏨5* ship
	Your day will begin with a tour around Edfu. This temple has an imposing entrance and dates back to 237BC. In the afternoon you’ll sail to Luxor where you will see the Luxor Temple and temple complex of Karnak.			Summer here can be brutally hot. Take sunscreen and a hat, wear loose clothing, and drink plenty of water.
9	⛴️Edfu to Luxor cruise (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning Arr: Evening	🏨Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Included with your tour is a visit to the famous Valley of the Kings. The tour will end back in Luxor where you will disembark and spend one more night in a hotel (not included in the tour).			If you’ve time then seeing sunset from a felucca is a magical experience.
10	🚕Luxor to Hurghada transfer (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨The Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a private transfer across the desert to the Red Sea resort of Hurghada.			Remember to tip service staff.
11-13	Spend a few days on Hurghada’s magnificent beaches. While you’re here you should absolutely go snorkeling or diving in the Red Sea.			If you’ve never learned to dive then this is a great value place to start.
14	✈Hurghada to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	Connect this Egypt itinerary with the Jordan itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Cairo (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨Kempinski Nile (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax after your flight in the stunning rooftop pool of your hotel.
3	A great place to start any Egypt itinerary, the Egyptian Museum is bursting with ancient artifacts which help you begin to understand the vast and fascinating history of this nation. From the serenity of the museum to the cacophony of Cairo’s streets, where I recommend you do a walking tour of the Old Coptic City.			To avoid the crowds try to get to the museum early and start your visit as far away from the entrance doors as possible.
4	🚄Cairo to Aswan train (Book >)	Dep: 21:10		🏨Train
	For the first half of today you’re going to visit the Pyramids of Giza. If you’ve time, take a walking tour of Khan el-Khalili Market.			Take cash for the market, and be sure to haggle.
5	🚄Cairo to Aswan train		Arr: 11:10	🏨5* ship (Book >)
	Emerge refreshed (hopefully) from your train journey and start your cruise to Luxor with a visit to Aswan’s High Dam and Philae Temple. Board your 5* ship and take in the views over the Nile.			If you’d like to visit Abu Simbel then you’ll need to add an extra day in Aswan (I recommend the Philae Hotel).
6	⛴️Aswan to Kom Ombo cruise ⛴️Kom Ombo to Edfu cruise	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon	🏨5* ship
	This afternoon your cruise will set off to the 2,200-year old double temple of Kom Ombo. Evening sail downstream to Edfu.			Cut down on plastic bottle by bringing a filter water bottle.
7	⛴️Edfu to Luxor cruise	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning Arr: Evening	🏨5* ship
	Your day will begin with a tour around Edfu. This temple has an imposing entrance and dates back to 237BC. In the afternoon you’ll sail to Luxor where you will see the Luxor Temple and temple complex of Karnak.			Summer here can be brutally hot. Take sunscreen and a hat, wear loose clothing, and drink plenty of water.
8	⛴️Edfu to Luxor cruise (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning Arr: Evening	🏨Steigenberger Nile Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Included with your tour is a visit to the famous Valley of the Kings. The tour will end back in Luxor where you will disembark and spend one more night in a hotel (not included in the tour).			If you’ve time then seeing sunset from a felucca is a magical experience.
9	🚕Luxor to Hurghada transfer (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Steigenberger Pure Lifestyle Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a private transfer across the desert to the Red Sea resort of Hurghada.			Remember to tip service staff.
10-13	Spend a few days on Hurghada’s magnificent beaches. While you’re here you should absolutely go snorkeling or diving in the Red Sea.			If you’ve never learned to dive then this is a great value place to start.
14	✈Hurghada to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	Connect this Egypt itinerary with the Jordan itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Cairo (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨Tahrir Square Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Arrange for a taxi or minicab to take you from the airport to your hostel.
3	A great place to start any visit to Egypt, the Egyptian Museum is bursting with ancient artifacts which help you begin to understand the vast and fascinating history of this nation. From the serenity of the museum to the cacophony of Cairo’s streets, where I recommend you do a walking tour of the Old Coptic City.			To avoid the crowds try to get to the museum early and start your visit as far away from the entrance doors as possible.
4	🚄Cairo to Aswan train (Book >)	Dep: 21:10		🏨Train
	Grab a taxi and visit the Pyramids of Giza. If you’ve time, walk 15 mins from your hostel to Khan el-Khalili Market.			Take cash for the market, and be sure to haggle.
5	🚄Cairo to Aswan train		Arr: 11:10	🏨Aunati Guesthouse (Book >)	All hotels >
	Emerge refreshed (hopefully) from your train journey and take an afternoon tour to Aswan’s High Dam and Philae Temple.			If you’d like to visit Abu Simbel then you’ll need to add an extra day in Aswan.
6	⛴️Aswan to Kom Ombo ⛴️Kom Ombo to Edfu cruise (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: Afternoon	🏨5* ship (Book >)
	This afternoon your cruise will set off to the 2,200-year old double temple of Kom Ombo. Evening sail downstream to Edfu.			Cut down on plastic bottle by bringing a filter water bottle.
7	⛴️Edfu to Luxor cruise	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning Arr: Evening	🏨5* ship
	Your day will begin with a tour around Edfu. This temple has an imposing entrance and dates back to 237BC. In the afternoon you’ll sail to Luxor where you will see the Luxor Temple and temple complex of Karnak.			Summer here can be brutally hot. Take sunscreen and a hat, wear loose clothing, and drink plenty of water.
8	⛴️Edfu to Luxor cruise (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Morning Arr: Evening	🏨Bob Marley Peace Hotel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Included with your tour is a visit to the famous Valley of the Kings. The tour will end back in Luxor where you will disembark and spend one more night in a hotel (not included in the tour).			If you’ve time then seeing sunset from a felucca is a magical experience.
9	🚌Luxor to Hurghada bus (Book >)	Dep: 08:05	Arr: 13:00	🏨Marina Square Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a bus across the desert to the Red Sea resort of Hurghada.			Remember to tip service staff.
10-13	Spend a few days on Hurghada’s magnificent beaches. While you’re here you should absolutely go snorkeling or diving in the Red Sea.			If you’ve never learned to dive then this is a great value place to start.
14	✈Hurghada to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	Connect this Egypt itinerary with the Jordan itinerary
	Take a taxi or minicab to the airport.

Perfect beaches, awesome volcanoes, grand colonial-era cities and fascinating Mayan ruins. Travel in Nicaragua & Honduras may be an adventure, but it is absolutely worth the journey. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Managua (Book >) 🚐San Juan de Sur (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2		Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning Arr: 2.5hrs later	🏨Morgan’s Rock Hacienda (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re connecting this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with Costa Rica then you can get a taxi for about $20 from the border, or a transfer from Liberia airport. Visitors from most countries do not require a visa to enter.
3	Spend an additional day enjoying the beautiful beaches			Be cautious about walking around town at night
4	🚕San Juan del Sur to San Jorge taxi ⛴️San Jorge to Ometepe ferry (Info >)	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 09:30	Arr: 09:15 Arr: 10:50	🏨Totoco Eco-Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy the ferry across Lake Nicaragua to San Jose del Sur. Once on Ometepe Island take a taxi to the hotel. You then have the choice of climbing Maderas (challenging) or Concepcion (even more challenging) volcanos or, for something more sedate, taking a trip to San Ramon waterfall – you may want to stay an extra day			The ferry ride can be a bit choppy so you may want to take motion sickness tablets
5	⛴️Ometepe to San Jorge ferry (Info >) 🚐San Jorge to Granada minibus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 10:00	Arr: 08:50 Arr: 12:00	🏨Real La Merced (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take the ferry back to San Jorge (and maybe spot a freshwater shark along the way) before journeying on to the beautiful city of Granada. Climb up the bell tower of Iglesia de la Merced to get your bearings, then stroll around the central park and admire the cathedral and colonial-era houses			The roads in Nicaragua can get a bit bumpy, so keep those motion sickness tablets handy
6	Today you can go on a full-day boat trip to the Isletas de Granada, where you’ll see monkeys and a volcano, as well as have an opportunity to kayak on the lake			Remember to pack a good filter water bottle
7	🚐Granada to Leon minibus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Hotel El Convento (Book >)	All hotels >
	One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Leon is packed with history. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed cathedral and the amazing Museum of the Revolution. If you have more time you can climb some of the nearby volcanoes			Although it looks tempting, street food here should be avoided unless you have a particularly strong stomach
8	🚐Leon to Managua minibus (Book >) ✈Managua to San Pedro Sula flight (Book >) 🚕San Pedro Sula to Copan Ruinas taxi	Dep: 08:30 Dep: Afternoon Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:30 Arr: 14:00 Arr: Afternoon Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Marina Copán (Book >)	All hotels >
	After a long day of travel to Honduras, relax in your hotel and soak up the splendid town of Copan Ruinas			Take a look at the Mid-range itinerary for alternative routes to Honduras
9	Start early to explore the incredible Mayan ruins, avoiding the mid-day heat. Don’t miss the Sepulturas complex, outside of the main ruins site. Guides can be hired, or you can find more info on this blog			If you don’t feel like the 2km walk to the ruins there are plenty of taxis
10	🚕Copan Ruinas to San Pedro Sula taxi ✈San Pedro Sula to Roatan flight (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon Arr: Afternoon	🏨Xbalanque (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive into the exquisite Bay of Islands in time for sunset			Bring insect repellant and an eco-friendly sunscreen
11-12	Relax on your hotel’s private beach, or visit the marine life on a snorkelling or diving trip. You could also visit the island of Saint Helene or go kayaking along a mangrove forest			If you’ve ever been tempted to learn SCUBA diving, Roatan is an exceptionally good value place to do so
13-14	✈Roatan to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with the Costa Rica or Cuba itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Managua (Book >) 🚐San Juan de Sur (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2		Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning Arr: 2.5hrs later	🏨Revata (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re connecting this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with Costa Rica then you can get a taxi for about $20 from the border, or a transfer from Liberia airport. Visitors from most countries do not require a visa to enter.
3	Spend an additional day enjoying the beautiful beaches			Be cautious about walking around town at night
4	🚌San Juan del Sur to Rivas bus 🚕Rivas to San Jorge taxi ⛴️San Jorge to Ometepe ferry (Info >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 09:00 Dep: 09:30	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 09:15 Arr: 10:50	🏨Totoco Eco-Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy the ferry across Lake Nicaragua to San Jose del Sur. Once on Ometepe Island take a taxi to the hotel. You then have the choice of climbing Maderas (challenging) or Concepcion (even more challenging) volcanos or, for something more sedate, taking a trip to San Ramon waterfall – you may want to stay an extra day			Buses frequently depart San Juan del Sur – ask for Rivas terminal and, when you arrive, don’t accept the first taxi fare you’re offered
5	⛴️Ometepe to San Jorge ferry (Info >) 🚐San Jorge to Granada minibus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 10:00	Arr: 08:50 Arr: 12:00	🏨Real La Merced (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take the ferry back to San Jorge (and maybe spot a freshwater shark along the way) before journeying on to the beautiful city of Granada. Climb up the bell tower of Iglesia de la Merced to get your bearings, then stroll around the central park and admire the cathedral and colonial-era houses			The ferry ride can be a bit choppy so you may want to take motion sickness tablets
6	Today you can go on a full-day boat trip to the Isletas de Granada, where you’ll see monkeys and a volcano, as well as have an opportunity to kayak on the lake			Remember to pack a good filter water bottle
7	🚐Granada to Leon minibus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Posada Fuente Castalia (Book >)	All hotels >
	One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Leon is packed with history. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed cathedral and the amazing Museum of the Revolution. If you have more time you can climb some of the nearby volcanoes			Because hotels here are good value it’s worth getting a room to leave your bags in and rest before being picked up at 2AM by your minibus
8	🚐Leon to La Ceiba minibus (Book >) ⛴️La Ceiba to Roatan ferry (Info >)	Dep: 02:00 Dep: 16:30	Arr: 16:00 Arr: 17:45	🏨Splash Inn Dive Resort & Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	After such a long journey to Honduras you have earned a few days of relaxation in the beautiful Bay of Islands			Bring insect repellant and an eco-friendly sunscreen
9-10	Relax on the beach of Half Moon Bay, or visit the marine life on a snorkelling or diving trip. You could also visit the island of Saint Helene or go kayaking along a mangrove forest			If you’ve ever been tempted to learn SCUBA diving, Roatan is an exceptionally good value place to do
11	✈Roatan to San Pedro Sula flight (Book >) 🚌San Pedro Sula to Copan Ruinas bus (Book >)	Dep: Morning Dep: 10:45	Arr: Morning Arr: 14:00	🏨La Escalinata (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy the town of Copan Ruinas, or pay a visit to the Sepulturas complex			I strongly advise buying bus tickets in advance, where possible
12	🚌Copan Ruinas to Guatemala City bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 20:30	🏨Barceló Guatemala City (Book >)	All hotels >
	Start early to explore the incredible Mayan ruins, avoiding the mid-day heat. Guides can be hired, or you can find more info on this blog			If you don’t feel like the 2km walk to the ruins there are plenty of taxis
13-14	✈Guatemala City to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with the Costa Rica or Cuba itinerary
	Visit Parque Central and Palacio Nacional in the morning before the flight home
Budget
1	✈To Managua (Book >) 🚐San Juan de Sur (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2		Dep: Morning	Arr: Morning Arr: 2.5hrs later	🏨The Beach House (Book >)	All hostels >
	If you’re connecting this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with Costa Rica then you can get a taxi for about $20 from the border, or a transfer from Liberia airport. Visitors from most countries do not require a visa to enter.
3	Spend an additional day enjoying the beautiful beaches			Be cautious about walking around town at night
4	🚌San Juan del Sur to Rivas bus (Info >) 🚌Rivas to San Jorge bus ⛴️San Jorge to Ometepe ferry (Info >)	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 09:30 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 09:45 Arr: 11:30	🏨Hospedaje Soma (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy the ferry across Lake Nicaragua to Moyagalpa. You then have the choice of climbing Maderas (challenging) or Concepcion (even more challenging) volcanos or, for something more sedate, taking a trip to San Ramon waterfall – you may want to stay an extra day – island bus times here			Buses frequently depart San Juan del Sur – ask for Rivas terminal and, when you arrive, the bus to the port departs every 30 mins from the parallel road to the north
5	⛴️Ometepe to San Jorge ferry (Info >) 🚌San Jorge to Rivas bus 🚌Rivas to Granada bus (Info >)	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 10:15 Dep: 11:15	Arr: 10:00 Arr: 10:30 Arr: 13:15	🏨De Boca en Boca (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take the ferry back to San Jorge (and maybe spot a freshwater shark along the way) before journeying on to the beautiful city of Granada. Climb up the bell tower of Iglesia de la Merced to get your bearings, then stroll around the central park and admire the cathedral and colonial-era houses			The ferry ride can be a bit choppy so you may want to take motion sickness tablets
6	Today you can go on a full-day boat trip to the Isletas de Granada, where you’ll see monkeys and a volcano, as well as have an opportunity to kayak on the lake			Remember to pack a good filter water bottle
7	🚐Granada Calle Vega to Managua UCA microbus 🚐Managua UCA to Leon microbus (Book >)	Dep: 10:00 Dep: 12:00	Arr: 11:30 Arr: 14:00	🏨Poco a Poco Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Leon is packed with history. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed cathedral and the amazing Museum of the Revolution. If you have more time you can climb some of the nearby volcanoes. Spend the evening resting before being picked up at 2AM by your minibus			Microbuses only depart when full and so there aren’t any timetables, but they do depart frequently throughout the day
8	🚐Leon to La Ceiba minibus (Book >) ⛴️La Ceiba to Roatan ferry (Info >)	Dep: 02:00 Dep: 16:30	Arr: 16:00 Arr: 17:45	🏨West End Dive Resort (Book >)	All hostels >
	After such a long journey to Honduras you have earned a few days of relaxation in the beautiful Bay of Islands			Bring insect repellant and an eco-friendly sunscreen
9-10	Relax on the beach of Half Moon Bay, or visit the marine life on a snorkelling or diving trip. You could also visit the island of Saint Helene or go kayaking along a mangrove forest			If you’ve ever been tempted to learn SCUBA diving, Roatan is an exceptionally good value place to do
11	⛴️Roatan to La Ceiba ferry (Info >) 🚌La Ceiba to San Pedro Sula bus (Book >) 🚌San Pedro Sula to Copan Ruinas bus (Info >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:30 Dep: 14:00	Arr: 08:15 Arr: 13:00 Arr: 17:45	🏨Iguana Azul (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy an evening in the pretty town of Copan Ruinas			I strongly advise buying bus tickets in advance, where possible
12	🚌Copan Ruinas to Guatemala City bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 20:30	🏨Central 10 Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Start early to explore the incredible Mayan ruins, avoiding the mid-day heat. If you have time visit the Sepulturas complex, outside of the main ruins site. Guides can be hired, or you can find more info on this blog			If you don’t feel like the 2km walk to the ruins there are plenty of taxis
13-14	✈Guatemala City to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Nicaragua & Honduras itinerary with the Costa Rica or Cuba itinerary
	Visit Parque Central and Palacio Nacional in the morning before the flight home

🇱🇦 LAOS

Landlocked, but moving to the aquatic rhythm of mighty rivers such as the Mekong, Laos is a country full of dramatic scenery and adventure. The itineraries below differ due to budget, and range from 14 to 17 days in length. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Laos itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Pakse (Book >) 🚕Pakse to Champasak taxi	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨The River Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re travelling from Cambodia then you can fly from Siem Reap, departing and arriving in the afternoon
3	Take a day trip to the Bolaven Plateau, which can be arranged by your hotel. Relax in the evening with a stroll around the resort grounds and relaxing by the infinity pools			Anyone not from Japan or the ASEAN countries will need a visa for Laos
4	Journey to the beautiful 4000 Islands area (which can also be arranged by your hotel)			Save the environment by using a good filter water bottle
5	🚕Champasak to Pakse taxi ✈Pakse to Luang Prabang flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Hotel Sofitel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive in Luang Prabang in time for sunset by the Mekong river.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples
6-8	So much to see over the next couple of days! Start with the early morning alms-giving (which starts at 05:30 in summer and 06:30 in winter) on Sisavangvong Road. Visit the Royal Palace and the Golden Buddha Phra Bang within. The top of Mount Phousi is a wonderful place from which to watch sunset. Wat Mai palace, Wat Visoun and Xieng Thong are also worth some of your time. Pick up some souvenirs from the morning market (06:30-10:00). Take a tuk tuk to Kuang Si Falls.			This blog post offers guidance on how to behave respectfully at the alms-giving.
9	⛴️Luang Prabang to Pakbeng ferry (Book >)	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Luang Say Lodge
	Embark on your tour up the mighty Mekong. Today you’ll visit Pak Ou cave and a hill tribe village.			Pack plenty of sunscreen – the sun is especially strong on the river
10	⛴️Pakbeng to Huay Xai ferry	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 17:00	🏨Nakaraj Princess (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll make more stops today including, after lunch, a visit to a traditional Laotian village of Ban Gon Dturn, before arriving in Huay Xai on the border with Thailand.			The border closes at 18:00 and cruise staff on both sides of the border can help with travel to Chiang Rai.
11	🚕Huay Xai to Luang Nam Tha taxi	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨The Boat Landing (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Luang Nam Tha take a look at the Golden Stupa and enjoy dinner at the bustling night market.			Be aware of pick pockets in busy market areas.
12	Book a one-day trek in the verdant, magnificent Nam Ha National Protected Area, where you’ll taste some local food as well as visit a Khmu village.			Trekking here is mildly challenging – bring insect repellant.
13	✈Luang Nam Tha to Vientiane flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Crowne Plaza (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax in a traditional herbal sauna before flying to the capital.			Luang Nam Tha is close to the Chinese border, should you wish to add to your Laos itinerary.
14-15	✈Vientiane to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Laos itinerary with the Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Cambodia itinerary
	Spend the morning chilling in the roof garden infinity pool before heading to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Pakse (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Athena Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re travelling from Cambodia then you can fly from Siem Reap, departing and arriving in the afternoon.
3	Your hotel can help arrange a taxi to tour around the Bolevan Plateau – a superb day trip from Pakse.			Anyone not from Japan or the ASEAN countries will need a visa for Laos
4	Today you’ll go on a day trip to the 4000 Islands (book here), departing Pakse at 08:00 and returning at 14:00. Spend the rest of your day visiting pretty Wat Luang.			Save the environment by using a good filter water bottle
5	✈Pakse to Luang Prabang flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Evening	🏨Mekong Riverview (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive in Luang Prabang in time for sunset by the Mekong river.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples
6-8	So much to see over the next couple of days! Start with the early morning alms-giving (which starts at 05:30 in summer and 06:30 in winter) on Sisavangvong Road. Visit the Royal Palace and the Golden Buddha Phra Bang within. The top of Mount Phousi is a wonderful place from which to watch sunset. Wat Mai palace, Wat Visoun and Xieng Thong are also worth some of your time. Pick up some souvenirs from the morning market (06:30-10:00). Take a tuk tuk to Kuang Si Falls			This blog post offers guidance on how to behave respectfully at the alms-giving
9	🚐Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw minibus	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:00	🏨Mandala Ou Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	There are many hikes around Nong Khiaw, including to the nearby Phatok Caves. If you prefer to get on the water then go on a kayaking trip along the Nam Ou, or maybe hire a bike and visit the Khmu and Hmong villages in the area.			Ask your hotel for help with booking a minivan to Nong Khiaw
10	🚌Nong Khiaw to Oudomsay bus	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Namkat Yorla Pa (Book >)	All hotels >
	A couple more hours to enjoy the countryside around Nong Khiaw before taking the bus to Oudomsay. When you arrive you can walk up to the stupa and admire the views from the top, or hire a motorbike and visit Nam Kad Waterfall.			Oudomsay is also known as Muang Xay and Udom Xai (many places in Laos have multiple names)
11	The tourism office offers a 1-day tour to Ban Chom Ong village and the Chom Ong cave – the largest in Laos and a breathtaking sight to behold.			Remember to bring insect repellant and sunscreen
12	✈Oudomsay to Vientiane flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Crowne Plaza (Book >)	All hotels >
	In Vientiane you may have time to visit the That Luang stupa. In the evening head to the Mekong riverfront for a memorable sunset.			From Oudomsay you can also travel by bus to China or Thailand via Luang Nam Tha, should you wish to add to your Laos itinerary.
13-14	✈Vientiane to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Laos itinerary with the Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Cambodia itinerary
	Spend the morning chilling in the roof garden infinity pool before heading to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Pakse (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Chato Hostel (Book >)	All hotels >
	If you’re travelling from Cambodia then you can take a bus from Siem Reap at 08:00, arriving into Pakse by 18:00
3	Your hostel can help arrange a tour around the Bolevan Plateau – a superb day trip from Pakse			Anyone not from Japan or the ASEAN countries will need a visa for Laos
4	🚌Pakse to Vientiane bus (Book >)	Dep: 20:30		🏨Bus
	Today you’ll go on a day trip to the 4000 Islands (book here), departing Pakse at 08:00 and returning at 14:00. Spend the rest of your day visiting pretty Wat Luang before your night bus to Vientiane			It’s also possible (and considerably faster, but more expensive) to fly to Vientiane
5	🚌Pakse to Vientiane bus 🚐Vientiane to Vang Vieng minibus (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 06:30 Arr: 14:00	🏨Jasmine Vang Vieng Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	While Vang Vieng is known to be a party town, it’s also an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. After you’ve arrived hire a bicycle and visit the Blue Lagoon			Save the environment by using a good filter water bottle
6	Beat the crowds and go on a tubing trip earlier in the day. If you like to be more active then kayaking is also available			This Wikitravel page offers some advice on unscrupulous practises in Vang Vieng.
7	🚌Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Mad Monkey (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive in time for sunset from the top of Mount Phousi			Dress conservatively when visiting temples
8-9	So much to see over the next couple of days! Start with the early morning alms-giving (which starts at 05:30 in summer and 06:30 in winter) on Sisavangvong Road. Visit the Royal Palace and the Golden Buddha Phra Bang within. Wat Mai palace, Wat Visoun and Xieng Thong are also worth some of your time. Pick up some souvenirs from the morning market (06:30-10:00). Take a tuk tuk to Kuang Si Falls			This blog post offers guidance on how to behave respectfully at the alms-giving
10	🚐Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw minibus	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 14:00	🏨Pho Sai River View (Book >)	All hotels >
	There are many hikes around Nong Khiaw, including to the nearby Phatok Caves. If you prefer to get on the water then go on a kayaking trip along the Nam Ou, or maybe hire a bike and visit the Khmu and Hmong villages in the area.			Ask your hostel for help with booking a minivan to Nong Khiaw
11	🚌Nong Khiaw to Oudomsay	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Amphon Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	A couple more hours to enjoy the countryside around Nong Khiaw before taking the bus to Oudomsay. When you arrive you can walk up to the stupa and admire the views from the top, or hire a motorbike and visit Nam Kad Waterfall			Oudomsay is also known as Muang Xay and Udom Xai (many places in Laos have multiple names)
12	The tourism office offers a 1-day tour to Ban Chom Ong village and the Chom Ong cave – the largest in Laos and a breathtaking sight to behold			Remember to bring insect repellant and sunscreen
13	🚐Oudomsay to Luang Nam Tha minibus (Info >)	Dep: 11:30	Arr: 14:30	🏨Zuela Guesthouse (Book >)	All hotels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Luang Nam Tha take a look at the Golden Stupa and enjoy dinner at the bustling night market			Be aware of pick pockets in busy market areas
14	Book a one-day trek in the verdant, magnificent Nam Ha National Protected Area, where you’ll taste some local food as well as visit a Khmu village			Trekking here is mildly challenging – bring good walking boots
15	🚌Luang Nam Tha to Huay Xai bus (Info >) 🚌Huay Xai to Chiang Rai bus (Info >)	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 16:00	Arr: 13:00 Arr: 19:00	🏨Na-Rak-O Resort (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Chiang Rai (Thailand) you’ll have time in the evening to visit the night bazaar.			Luang Nam Tha is close to the Chinese border, should you wish to add to your Laos itinerary.
16-17	✈Chiang Rai to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Laos itinerary with the Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Cambodia itinerary
	Take a trip to Wat Rong Khun and the Black House before heading to the airport.

🇱🇰 SRI LANKA

Ancient sites, tough but rewarding treks and gorgeous beaches await intrepid travellers in Sri Lanka. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Sri Lanka itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Colombo (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Jetwing Beach (Book >)	All hotels >
	Ease into Sri Lanka by starting your journey in Negombo, close to the airport yet beside beautiful, serene beaches.			Book your private transfer from the airport here.
3	🚗Negombo to Habarana drive (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 13:00	🏨Cinnamon Lodge Habarana (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your driver and guide, who will drive you to Habarana. This will be your base for a couple of days. Start your exploration of the area with a tour of the royal ancient city of Polonnaruwa.			Check here to see if you need a visa for Sri Lanka and to apply.
4-5	Climb Sigiriya (or Lion Rock) and learn about its legendary and historical past. You’ll also have plenty of time for a safari in Minneriya National Park where you will spot elephants, monkeys deer and more.			Sigiriya can be an extremely popular place – arrive early to avoid crowds.
6	🚗Habarana to Kandy drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 16:00	🏨The Secret Kandy (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit the Dambulla cave temples – a fascinating World Heritage Site – on the drive to Kandy. You may also want to ask your drive to stop at one of the fragrant spice gardens in Matale (the drive time has allowed for both stops).			Travel times here can be a little slower than expected – I’ve built in extra time to reflect this.
7	🚗Kandy to Ella drive	Dep: 15:00	Arr: 19:00	🏨Ella Master Point Luxury Suite (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a tour of Kandy, visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens, the venerated Buddhist temple Sri Dalada Maligawa (or Temple of the Tooth), Kandy Lake and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue.			Cover legs and shoulders when entering temples.
8	🚗Ella to Galle drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Aditya Boutique (Book >)	All hotels >
	An 02:00 wake up (yep, 2AM) to start the 3 hour climb around 5,500 steps up Adam’s Peak, arriving in time for a breathtaking dawn. Admire the spectacular views from the top, see the somewhat unimpressive footprint of either Adam, Shiva or Buddha. Rest your aching legs on the drive to Galle.			The climb takes between 2-4 hours up and 1-2 hours down. The latest dawn (at around 06:29) is in late Jan/early Feb, the earliest (05:57) in Oct.
9-13	You’ve earned this: endless tropical beaches and serene beachside restaurants. Take a few days to recuperate before heading home, but be sure to set aside some time to visit the old Dutch town in the Fort.			Before you bid them farewell on day 8, don’t forget to tip your driver/guide (I recommend about Rs1000/day).
14	🚕Galle to Colombo Airport transfer (Book >) ✈Colombo to home (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:00 Arr: Evening	Connect this itinerary with the Southern India, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Indirect flights leave in the morning, in which case stay in Colombo overnight.
Mid-range
1	✈To Colombo (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Cinnamon Red (Book >)	All hotels >
	Dive in to the bustling streets of Colombo, focusing on the colonial buildings in the Fort area			Check here to see if you need a visa for Sri Lanka and to apply.
3	🚄Colombo to Habarana train (Book >)	Dep: 15:05	Arr: 18:42	🏨Priya Home Stay (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take the train to Habarana. This will be your base for a couple of days.			Book your train tickets as far in advance as possible. For the Colombo to Galle journey on day 8, buy your ticket in Colombo Fort station.
4-5	Start your exploration of the area with a tour of the royal ancient city of Polonnaruwa (you can either take a taxi or train here). Climb Sigiriya (or Lion Rock) and learn about its legendary and historical past. If you’ve time go on a safari in Minneriya National Park where you will spot elephants, monkeys deer and more.			Sigiriya can be an extremely popular place – take a taxi to get there early and avoid the crowds.
6	🚌Habarana to Dambulla bus 🚌Dambula to Kandy bus	Dep: 08:11 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 08:52 Arr: 13:00	🏨Private Apt With Scenic View (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit the Dambulla cave temples – a fascinating World Heritage Site – on the way to Kandy. When you arrive into Kandy, drop off your bags then visit the New Ranweli Spice Garden.			Take bus 48-16 from Habanara towards Colombo. From Dambulla buses leave for Kandy every 30 mins or so.
7	🚕Kandy to Dalhousie taxi (Book >)	Dep: 16:00	Arr: 18:00	🏨Slightly Chilled Yellow House (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a tour of Kandy, visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens, the venerated Buddhist temple Sri Dalada Maligawa (or Temple of the Tooth), Kandy Lake and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue.			Cover legs and shoulders when entering temples.
8	🛺Dalhousie to Hatton tuk-tuk 🚄Hatton to Colombo train (Book >) 🚄Colombo to Galle train	Dep: 09:15 Dep: 10:39 Dep: 15:50	Arr: 10:15 Arr: 15:27 Arr: 17:34	🏨Aditya Boutique (Book >)	All hotels >
	An 02:00 wake up (yep, 2AM) to start the 3 hour climb around 5,500 steps up Adam’s Peak, arriving in time for a breathtaking dawn. Admire the spectacular views from the top, see the somewhat unimpressive footprint of either Adam, Shiva or Buddha. Rest your aching legs on the journey to Galle.			The climb takes between 2-4 hours up and 1-2 hours down. The latest dawn (at around 06:29) is in late Jan/early Feb, the earliest (05:57) in Oct.
9-13	You’ve earned this: endless tropical beaches and serene beachside restaurants. Take a few days to recuperate before heading home, but be sure to set aside some time to visit the old Dutch town in the Fort.			Before you bid them farewell on day 8, don’t forget to tip your driver/guide (I recommend about Rs1000/day).
14	🚕Galle to Colombo Airport transfer (Book >) ✈Colombo to home (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:00 Arr: Evening	Connect this itinerary with the Southern India, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Indirect flights leave in the morning, in which case stay in Colombo overnight.
Budget
1	✈To Colombo (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Miracle City Inn (Book >)	All hostels >
	Dive in to the bustling streets of Colombo, focusing on the colonial buildings in the Fort area			Check here to see if you need a visa for Sri Lanka and to apply.
3	🚄Colombo to Habarana train (Book >)	Dep: 15:05	Arr: 18:42	🏨Green Garden Resort (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take the train to Habarana. This will be your base for a couple of days.			Book your train tickets as far in advance as possible. For the Colombo to Galle journey on day 8, buy your ticket in Colombo Fort station.
4-5	Start your exploration of the area with a tour of the royal ancient city of Polonnaruwa (you can either take a taxi or train here). Climb Sigiriya (or Lion Rock) and learn about its legendary and historical past. If you’ve time go on a safari in Minneriya National Park where you will spot elephants, monkeys deer and more.			Sigiriya can be an extremely popular place – take a taxi to get there early and avoid the crowds.
6	🚌Habarana to Dambulla bus 🚌Dambula to Kandy bus	Dep: 08:11 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 08:52 Arr: 13:00	🏨Bed Station 210 (Book >)	All hostels >
	Visit the Dambulla cave temples – a fascinating World Heritage Site – on the way to Kandy. Enjoy a tour of Kandy, visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens, the venerated Buddhist temple Sri Dalada Maligawa (or Temple of the Tooth), Kandy Lake and the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue.			Take bus 48-16 from Habanara towards Colombo. From Dambulla buses leave for Kandy every 30 mins or so.
7	🚄Kandy to Hatton train (Book >) 🚌Hatton to Dalhousie bus	Dep: 12:31 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 16:30	🏨Mountain Villa Adams Peak (Book >)	All hostels >
	Visit the New Ranweli Spice Garden before setting off for Dalhousie and an early night.			Cover legs and shoulders when entering temples.
8	🛺Dalhousie to Hatton tuk-tuk 🚄Hatton to Colombo train (Book >) 🚄Colombo to Galle train	Dep: 09:15 Dep: 10:39 Dep: 15:50	Arr: 10:15 Arr: 15:27 Arr: 17:34	🏨Luna Beach Home & Cabanas (Book >)	All hostels >
	An 02:00 wake up (yep, 2AM) to start the 3 hour climb around 5,500 steps up Adam’s Peak, arriving in time for a breathtaking dawn. Admire the spectacular views from the top, see the somewhat unimpressive footprint of either Adam, Shiva or Buddha. Rest your aching legs on the journey to Galle.			The climb takes between 2-4 hours up and 1-2 hours down. The latest dawn (at around 06:29) is in late Jan/early Feb, the earliest (05:57) in Oct.
9-13	You’ve earned this: endless tropical beaches and serene beachside restaurants. Take a few days to recuperate before heading home, but be sure to set aside some time to visit the old Dutch town in the Fort.			Before you bid them farewell on day 8, don’t forget to tip your driver/guide (I recommend about Rs1000/day).
14	🚕Galle to Colombo Airport transfer (Book >) ✈Colombo to home (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:00 Arr: Evening	Connect this itinerary with the Southern India, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Indirect flights leave in the morning, in which case stay in Colombo overnight.

🇮🇳 SOUTHERN INDIA

From the sublime backwaters of Kerala, to wildlife wonderlands, to ancient cities and perfect beaches – this two-week journey will give you memories to last a lifetime. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Southern India itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel Old Harbour (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚕Kochi to Alleppey taxi	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hotels >
	Book a taxi through your hotel and join your houseboat for a midday departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Be sure to take a filter water bottle some insect repellant with you.
4	🚕Alleppey to Mettupalayam drive (Book >)	Dep: 12:30	Arr: 19:00	🏨Kurumba Village Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning on the water before meeting your driver and heading to the foothills of Nilgiri hills.			I highly recommend buying train tickets as far in advance as possible.
5	🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 07:10	Arr: 12:00	🏨Treebo Trip Rosefield Heritage (Book >)	All hotels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			You will need to register with IRCTC to use the links featured in this Southern India itinerary before buying a ticket on their site.
6	🚕Ooty to Nagarhole National Park drive (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive through more plantations and spectacular views – asking your driver to stop whenever you wish – on your way to Nagarhole National Park. Settle in to your hotel then join the 15:30 jeep safari into the park.			Visit TripSavvy for a guide on how much to tip your driver.
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 road and river safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚕Nagarhole National Park to Mysore taxi	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 12:00	🏨Radisson Blu Plaza (Book >)	All hotels >
	Your hotel can help arrange your taxi to Mysore. Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction here. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Remember to dress modestly when visiting temples.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >)	Dep: 06:20	Arr: 14:00	🏨Hotel Taj Exotica Goa (Book >)	All hotels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Air-conditioned first class (AC1 or 1A) is the most comfortable way to travel by public train in India.
12-13	Bored of the beach? Arrange tours with your hotel, including to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Se Cathedral in Old Goa, Singbal’s Book House in nearby Panaji and the Dudhsagar Falls.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
14-15	✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.
Mid-range
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Hotel Old Harbour (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚄Kochi to Alleppey train (Book >)	Dep: 08:45	Arr: 10:40	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a tuk-tuk to the station and arrive into Alleppey in time to board your houseboat for a midday departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Be sure to take a filter water bottle and some insect repellant with you.
4	🚌Alleppey to Coimbatore bus (Book >)	Dep: 15:20	Arr: 21:00	🏨Treebo Trend Jansi Residency (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning on the water before heading to bustling Coimbatore.			I highly recommend buying train tickets as far in advance as possible.
5	🚄Coimbatore to Mettupalayam train 🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 05:15 Dep: 07:10	Arr: 06:15 Arr: 12:00	🏨Treebo Trip Rosefield Heritage (Book >)	All hotels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			You will need to register with IRCTC to use the links featured in this Southern India itinerary before buying a ticket on their site.
6	🚌Ooty to Bandipur bus (Info >)	Dep: 08:24	Arr: 10:30	🏨Dhole’s Den Bandipur (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags off at your hotel and arrange your safari in the village. If you want to save money then join the 15:30 bus safari into the park.			Bus times from Ooty may change. Your bus will depart from Udhagamandalam Central Bus Stand (close to the station and so, on Day 5, you may want to check times)
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚌Bandipur to Mysore bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨Lok Sagar Mysore Palace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction in this city. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Your bus will be the one from Ooty and so exact times may not be available.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨Capital O 41723 Shree International(Book >)	All hotels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >)	Dep: 06:20	Arr: 14:00	🏨FabExpress Vagator Cottage (Book >)	All hotels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Air-conditioned first class (AC1 or 1A) is the most comfortable way to travel by public train in India.
12-13	Bored of the beach? Arrange tours with your hotel, including to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Se Cathedral in Old Goa, Singbal’s Book House in nearby Panaji and the Dudhsagar Falls.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
14-15	✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.
Budget
1	✈To Kochi (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨Bastian Homestay (Book >)	All hostels >
	Enjoy a relaxed day in the serene surroundings of Kochi. See the Chinese fishing nets in action, visit the opulent Mattancherry Palace and St. Francis church – the oldest European-built church in India and where Vasco da Gama was first buried.			Kochi is a pretty conservative place and so you will probably be more comfortable by dressing accordingly.
3	🚄Kochi to Alleppey train (Book >)	Dep: 08:45	Arr: 10:40	🏨Houseboat (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a tuk-tuk to the station and arrive into Alleppey in time to board your houseboat for an 11:30 departure. Sail through the serene Kerala backwaters, stopping off at villages along the way.			Don’t forget to take a filter water bottle and some insect repellant.
4	🚄Alleppey to Coimbatore train (Book >)	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 15:27	🏨Treebo Trend Jansi Residency (Book >)	All hostels >
	Glide to the end of your houseboat journey then board the train to Coimbatore. Your hotel is near the Karpagam Cinema – going to see a Bollywood film can be great fun.			This train only departs on Fridays. See here for other train times.
5	🚄Coimbatore to Mettupalayam train 🚄Mettupalayam to Ooty train (Book >)	Dep: 05:15 Dep: 07:10	Arr: 06:15 Arr: 12:00	🏨Prabhu’s Place (Book >)	All hostels >
	The Ooty Toy Train has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s well worth the early start and 35-min taxi journey. Admire the magnificent engineering as the train traverses dense rainforests and steep mountains. The colonial hill station of Ooty has a lovely lake, nearby tea plantations and some wonderful botanical gardens.			If you use IRCTC links featured in this Southern India itinerary you’ll need to register before buying a ticket on their site. I highly recommend buying train tickets in advance.
6	🚌Ooty to Bandipur bus (Info >)	Dep: 08:24	Arr: 10:30	🏨The hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags off at your hotel and arrange your safari in the village. If you want to save money then join the 15:30 bus safari into the park.			Bus times from Ooty may change. Your bus will depart from Udhagamandalam Central Bus Stand (close to the station and so, on Day 5, you may want to check times)
7	Sloths, leopards, tigers, wild Dogs, sambar, antelopes, deer and boars can all be spotted in this remarkable park. Start early and get the 06:30 safari.			Birds are mainly seen in the morning, elephants in the afternoon and tigers rarely.
8	🚌Bandipur to Mysore bus (Info >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Mansion (Book >)	All hostels >
	Mysore Palace is the must-see attraction in this city. If you’ve time to spare after that then the almost 800 year-old Somnathpur temple is well worth a visit, as is the lofty Sri Chamundeswari Temple, or the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens if you really want to see a tiger.			Your bus will be the one from Ooty and so exact times may not be available.
9	🚄Mysore to Bangalore train (Book >) 🚄Bangalore to Hampi train (Book >)	Dep: 11:30 Dep: 22:05	Arr: 14:00	🏨Train
	Visit those places you were unable to see yesterday before journeying to Bangalore. Once you’ve dropped your bags at the railway station visit the immense ISKCON temple, as well as the old temples in the Basavanagudi area before heading for your night train to Hampi.			Give yourself plenty of time to travel around Bangalore as the traffic congestion can be terrible.
10	🚄Bangalore to Hampi train		Arr: 07:10	🏨Apartment (Book >)	All hostels >
	The amazing 14th century ruins at Hampi stretch over 25 kilometers and so you’ll definitely need most of the day (and preferably a guide) to see them.			There are no ATMs in Hampi and so, if you need cash, make sure you take it out in Hospet.
11	🚄Hampi to Goa (Madgaon) train (Book >) 🚌Madgaon to Panjim bus	Dep: 06:20 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:00 Arr: 17:00	🏨The White Balcao (Book >)	All hostels >
	Spend a night amidst the wonderful old buildings of Panjim, including Singbal’s Book House.			When you arrive in Madgaon take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the KTC Bus terminus from where there are frequent services to Panjim.
12	🚕Panjim to Arpora	Dep: 10:15	Arr: 11:00	🏨Woke Morjim (Book >)	All hostels >
	Glide towards the coast and start unwinding in the tropical surroundings of Goa.			Learn a few local words before you travel to India
13-14	Enjoy a couple of days unwinding on the beach before heading home.			Be very wary of strong rip currents when in the sea
15-16	🚕Arpora to airport ✈Goa to home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon Dep: Evening	Arr: 1hr later Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Southern India itinerary with the Sri Lanka, Rajasthan – India or Nepal itinerary
	Direct flights are possible, but only at certain times of year.

🇬🇷 GREECE

There’s so much ancient history here that there’s a risk you’ll get blasé about seeing another 3,000 year-old pot. But then you realise walk through an old agora, or stand before a famous acropolis, or follow in the footsteps of knights and you appreciate Greece all over again. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Greece itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈Thessaloniki (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨The Excelsior(Book >)	All hotels >
	You should arrive in time to visit the 1,600 year-old Roman Rotunda			Accommodation and transport can book up early in high season.
2	🚄Thessaloniki to Palaeofarsalos train 🚄Palaeofarsalos to Kalambaka train (Book >)	Dep: 15:15 Dep: 18:20	Arr: 16:59 Arr: 19:16	🏨Theatro Hotel Odysseon (Book >)	All hotels >
	Walk along Thessaloniki’s promenade to the Byzantine-era White Tower. The Church of the Holy Apostles, Arch of Galerius and Church of Saint Demetrius are also worth seeing.			Make sure you always have some cash on you – many places don’t take card.
3	Go on a walking tour of the area, including to the famous monastery of Ypapanti and Great Meteoron or Varlaam.			Make sure you’re covered up appropriately for entering the monasteries.
4	🚌Kalambaka to Delphi bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Nidimos Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	When the heat of the day has started to cool off, head for the Sanctuary of Apollo.			There’s isn’t much info on site and so you’ll need to do your own research.
5	🚌Delphi to Athens bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Hotel Grande Bretagne (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around the Athens’s Agora (central market) and the beautiful neighbourhood of Plaka.			Kumru is a delicious warm sandwich made of sesame bread, Turkish sausage (veggie options also available), grilled cheese and tomatoes.
6	Devote today to seeing the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum.			This website provides good advice on buying tickets for the Acropolis.
7	🚕Athens to Piraeus ⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes (Book >)	Dep: 17:00 Dep: 18:00	Arr: 17:30	🏨On ferry
	The Museum of Cycladic Art, Monastiraki Neighbourhood and Temple of Poseidon are worth visiting if you have time.			Book a Lux cabin for tonight’s journey for supreme comfort.
8	⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes		Arr: 08:40	🏨In camera Art Boutique Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	A full day in which to visit the ancient sights of Rhodes Old Town. Must-see places include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Street of the Knights, the Süleyman Mosque and the Archaeological Museum in the Hospital of the Knights.			The Archaeological Museum is worth spending a few hours in and you can save money by buying a combined ticket with the Palace of the Grand Masters.
9	Take a day trip to Lindos and explore the town’s pretty streets and fascinating acropolis. In the evening head up Rhodes Old Town’s Roloi Clock Tower.			Bring a snorkel and swim in the clear waters off of St Paul’s Bay.
10	⛴️Rhodes to Symi (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:15	🏨Iapetos Village (Book >)	All hotels >
	Soak up the atmosphere in a harbourside café then take the bus to Panormitis Monastery. Back in town walk up the many steps to the Kástro.			I recommend sitting on the right-hand side of the bus for the journey to Panormitis.
11	⛴️Symi to Santorini (Book >)	Dep: 17:15		🏨On ferry
	Want more beach? Saint Nicholas Beach is either a short boat ride or long walk from town.			This ferry service departs only once a week – plan your Greece itinerary accordingly.
12	⛴️Symi to Santorini 🚕Port to hotel	Dep: 00:30	Arr: 00:15 Arr: 01:00	🏨Aenaon Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit Akrotiri, and the picturesque town of Oia from where you can take a stunningly beautiful hike to Fira.			Don’t ride the donkeys in Santorini as they are often mistreated.
12	Soak in the views from your hotel or visit the beach – Ammoudi Bay is one of the best for a swim.			Check what time cruise ships will be docking so as to avoid the crowds.
13	⛴️Santorini to Mykonos ferry (Book >)	Dep: 12:50	Arr: 15:35	🏨Myconian Kyma Design Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Staying in the Chora you can spend time here and there drifting through the pretty whitewashed streets. Head down to Little Venice for sunset.			Sea crossings can be rough – take some motion sickness tablets if necessary.
14	The Mykonos Windmills are just a 15-minute walk from your hotel. Paraportiani Church is also worth visit, as are Platys Gialos, Agios Sostis and Ornos beaches.			The windmills are a great place from which to watch sunset.
15	✈Mykonos to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Greece itinerary with the Western Turkey or Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria itinerary
	Book a transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈Thessaloniki (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨The Bristol Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	You should arrive in time to visit the 1,600 year-old Roman Rotunda			Accommodation and transport can book up early in high season.
2	🚄Thessaloniki to Palaeofarsalos train 🚄Palaeofarsalos to Kalambaka train (Book >)	Dep: 15:15 Dep: 18:20	Arr: 16:59 Arr: 19:16	🏨Dellas Boutique Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Walk along Thessaloniki’s promenade to the Byzantine-era White Tower. The Church of the Holy Apostles, Arch of Galerius and Church of Saint Demetrius are also worth seeing.			Make sure you always have some cash on you – many places don’t take card.
3	Go on a walking tour of the area, including to the famous monastery of Ypapanti and Great Meteoron or Varlaam.			Make sure you’re covered up appropriately for entering the monasteries.
4	🚌Kalambaka to Delphi bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Nidimos Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	When the heat of the day has started to cool off, head for the Sanctuary of Apollo.			There’s isn’t much info on site and so you’ll need to do your own research.
5	🚌Delphi to Athens bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Rastoni Athens Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Wander around the Athens’s Agora (central market) and the beautiful neighbourhood of Plaka.			Kumru is a delicious warm sandwich made of sesame bread, Turkish sausage (veggie options also available), grilled cheese and tomatoes.
6	Devote today to seeing the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum.			This website provides good advice on buying tickets for the Acropolis.
7	🚕Athens to Piraeus ⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes (Book >)	Dep: 17:00 Dep: 18:00	Arr: 17:30	🏨On ferry
	The Museum of Cycladic Art, Monastiraki Neighbourhood and Temple of Poseidon are worth visiting if you have time.			Book an AA2, AS2 or AB2 cabin for tonight’s journey for supreme comfort.
8	⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes		Arr: 08:40	🏨Petrino (Book >)	All hotels >
	A full day in which to visit the ancient sights of Rhodes Old Town. Must-see places include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Street of the Knights, the Süleyman Mosque and the Archaeological Museum in the Hospital of the Knights.			The Archaeological Museum is worth spending a few hours in and you can save money by buying a combined ticket with the Palace of the Grand Masters.
9	Take a day trip to Lindos and explore the town’s pretty streets and fascinating acropolis. In the evening head up Rhodes Old Town’s Roloi Clock Tower.			Bring a snorkel and swim in the clear waters off of St Paul’s Bay.
10	⛴️Rhodes to Symi (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:15	🏨Captain’s Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Soak up the atmosphere in a harbourside café then take the bus to Panormitis Monastery. Back in town walk up the many steps to the Kástro.			I recommend sitting on the right-hand side of the bus for the journey to Panormitis.
11	⛴️Symi to Santorini (Book >)	Dep: 17:15		🏨On ferry
	Want more beach? Saint Nicholas Beach is either a short boat ride or long walk from town.			This ferry service departs only once a week – plan your Greece itinerary accordingly.
12	⛴️Symi to Santorini 🚕Port to hotel	Dep: 00:30	Arr: 00:15 Arr: 01:00	🏨Horizon Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit Akrotiri, and the picturesque town of Oia from where you can take a stunningly beautiful hike to Fira.			Don’t ride the donkeys in Santorini as they are often mistreated.
12	Soak in the views from your hotel or visit the beach – Ammoudi Bay is one of the best for a swim.			Check what time cruise ships will be docking so as to avoid the crowds.
13	⛴️Santorini to Mykonos ferry (Book >)	Dep: 12:50	Arr: 15:35	🏨Mouselis Studios (Book >)	All hotels >
	Staying in the Chora you can spend time here and there drifting through the pretty whitewashed streets. Head down to Little Venice for sunset.			Sea crossings can be rough – take some motion sickness tablets if necessary.
14	The Mykonos Windmills are just a 15-minute walk from your hotel. Paraportiani Church is also worth visit, as are Platys Gialos, Agios Sostis and Ornos beaches.			The windmills are a great place from which to watch sunset.
15	✈Mykonos to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Greece itinerary with the Western Turkey or Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria itinerary
	Book a transfer to the airport.
Budget
1	✈Thessaloniki (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Crossroads (Book >)	All hostels >
	You should arrive in time to visit the 1,600 year-old Roman Rotunda			Accommodation and transport can book up early in high season.
2	🚄Thessaloniki to Palaeofarsalos train 🚄Palaeofarsalos to Kalambaka train (Book >)	Dep: 15:15 Dep: 18:20	Arr: 16:59 Arr: 19:16	🏨Meteora Central Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Walk along Thessaloniki’s promenade to the Byzantine-era White Tower. The Church of the Holy Apostles, Arch of Galerius and Church of Saint Demetrius are also worth seeing.			Make sure you always have some cash on you – many places don’t take card.
3	Go on a walking tour of the area, including to the famous monastery of Ypapanti and Great Meteoron or Varlaam.			Make sure you’re covered up appropriately for entering the monasteries.
4	🚌Kalambaka to Delphi bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 13:30	🏨Sibylla Hotel (Book >)	All hostels >
	When the heat of the day has started to cool off, head for the Sanctuary of Apollo.			There’s isn’t much info on site and so you’ll need to do your own research.
5	🚌Delphi to Athens bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨City Circus Athens (Book >)	All hostels >
	Wander around the Athens’s Agora (central market) and the beautiful neighbourhood of Plaka.			Kumru is a delicious warm sandwich made of sesame bread, Turkish sausage (veggie options also available), grilled cheese and tomatoes.
6	Devote today to seeing the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum.			This website provides good advice on buying tickets for the Acropolis.
7	🚕Athens to Piraeus ⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes (Book >)	Dep: 17:00 Dep: 18:00	Arr: 17:30	🏨On ferry
	The Museum of Cycladic Art, Monastiraki Neighbourhood and Temple of Poseidon are worth visiting if you have time.			Book a DOR (dormitory) cabin for tonight’s journey for supreme comfort.
8	⛴️Piraeus to Rhodes		Arr: 08:40	🏨Stay Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	A full day in which to visit the ancient sights of Rhodes Old Town. Must-see places include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Street of the Knights, the Süleyman Mosque and the Archaeological Museum in the Hospital of the Knights.			The Archaeological Museum is worth spending a few hours in and you can save money by buying a combined ticket with the Palace of the Grand Masters.
9	Take a day trip to Lindos and explore the town’s pretty streets and fascinating acropolis. In the evening head up Rhodes Old Town’s Roloi Clock Tower.			Bring a snorkel and swim in the clear waters off of St Paul’s Bay.
10	⛴️Rhodes to Symi (Book >)	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:15	🏨Captain’s Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	Soak up the atmosphere in a harbourside café then take the bus to Panormitis Monastery. Back in town walk up the many steps to the Kástro.			I recommend sitting on the right-hand side of the bus for the journey to Panormitis.
11	⛴️Symi to Santorini (Book >)	Dep: 17:15		🏨On ferry
	Want more beach? Saint Nicholas Beach is either a short boat ride or long walk from town.			This ferry service departs only once a week – plan your Greece itinerary accordingly.
12	⛴️Symi to Santorini 🚌Port to Fira (Info >)	Dep: 00:30	Arr: 00:15 Arr: 01:00	🏨Villa Manos (Book >)	All hotels >
	Visit Akrotiri, and the picturesque town of Oia from where you can take a stunningly beautiful hike to Fira.			The bus meets every large Blue Star ferry arrival and stops outside the villa.
12	Soak in the views from your hotel or visit the beach – Ammoudi Bay is one of the best for a swim.			Check what time cruise ships will be docking so as to avoid the crowds.
13	⛴️Santorini to Mykonos ferry (Book >)	Dep: 12:50	Arr: 15:35	🏨Morfoulas Studios (Book >)	All hotels >
	Staying in the Chora you can spend time here and there drifting through the pretty whitewashed streets. Head down to Little Venice for sunset.			Sea crossings can be rough – take some motion sickness tablets if necessary.
14	The Mykonos Windmills are just a 15-minute walk from your hotel. Paraportiani Church is also worth visit, as are Platys Gialos, Agios Sostis and Ornos beaches.			The windmills are a great place from which to watch sunset.
15	✈Mykonos to Home (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	Connect this Greece itinerary with the Western Turkey or Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria itinerary
	Book a transfer to the airport.

🇳🇵 NEPAL

You’ll need to be somewhat fit to tackle the magnificent treks in this Nepal itinerary, but the reward for all that effort is a front-row view of the world’s highest mountains. Back where the oxygen is less thin are fascinating cities and incredible wildlife-spotting opportunities. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Nepal itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel The Dwarika’s (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	✈Kathmandu to Pokhara flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨The Pavilions Himalayas (Book >)	All hotels >
	You have a little more time this morning to see any sights you missed out on yesterday before the breathtaking flight to Pokhara. Once you’ve arrived, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hotel for help.
5	🚕Pokhara to Nayapul taxi 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri hike	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani hike	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			These trekking times allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani hike	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Birethanti hike 🚕Birethanti to Pokhara taxi	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 17:00	🏨The Pavilions Himalayas (Book >)	All hotels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Birethanti and stopping off at Ghandrung village. Back in Pokhara treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚗Pokhara to Bandipur drive (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 13:30	🏨Depche Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your guide and enjoy the drive to Bandipur. This well-preserved medieval town boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Be wary of the signs of altitude sickness.
10	🚗Bandipur to Andrauli drive	Dep: 08:00	Arr: 11:00	🏨Barahi Jungle Lodge(Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Take a power bank with you on treks and safaris.
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚗Andrauli to Kathmandu drive	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Hotel The Dwarika’s (Book >)	All hotels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4 of this Nepal itinerary. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	Connect this Nepal itinerary with the China or India (Rajasthan) itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Tibet International (Book >)	All hotels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	✈Kathmandu to Pokhara flight (Book >)	Dep: Afternoon	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	You have a little more time this morning to see any sights you missed out on yesterday before the breathtaking flight to Pokhara. Once you’ve arrived, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hotel for help.
5	🚕Pokhara to Nayapul taxi 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri hike	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 08:45 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani hike	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			These trekking times allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani hike	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Naya Pul hike 🚌Naya Pul to Pokhara bus	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:15	Arr: 14:45 Arr: 17:15	🏨Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge (Book >)	All hotels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Naya Pul and stopping off at Ghandrung village. At the end of the trek you’ll need to wait for a passing bus back to Pokhara. Back in the city treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚌Pokhara to Dumre Bazaar bus 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Bandipur bus	Dep: 10:30 Dep: 13:30	Arr: 13:00 Arr: 14:30	🏨Gaun Ghar (Book >)	All hotels >
	The well-preserved medieval town of Bandipur boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Ask your hotel about transport from Dumre and to book your bus ticket to Sauraha.
10	🚌Bandipur to Dumre Bazaar bus 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Sauraha bus	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 09:30 Arr: 13:30	🏨Green Park Chitwan (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Ask your Chitwan hotel to collect you from the bus stop.
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚌Sauraha to Kathmandu bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Tibet International (Book >)	All hotels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4 of this Nepal itinerary. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	Connect this Nepal itinerary with the China or India (Rajasthan) itinerary
	Book your transfer to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Kathmandu (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Flock Kathmandu Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Relax in your beautiful hotel and go for a stroll around the old city.
3	Explore the Thamel District, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, famous Boudhanath Stupa, beautiful Taleju Temple, the Patan Museum and, if time, climb up to up to the ancient Swayambhu temple for breathtaking views. Mid-afternoon head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur.			Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival.
4	🚌Kathmandu to Pokhara bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30	Arr: 15:00	🏨The Mountain House (Book >)	All hostels >
	Once you’ve arrived in Pokhara, dropped off your bags and got your trekking permit, head to the lake for a serene paddle over the water.			You will need to get a trekking permit (details here) – head straight to the Nepal Tourism Board office when you arrive in Pokhara or ask your hostel for help.
5	🚌Pokhara to Nayapul bus 🚶Nayapul to Ulleri hike	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 09:00	Arr: 09:00 Arr: 16:00	🏨Super View Guest House
	From Nayapul walk to the Birethani checkpoint and get your permit checked. Then onwards and upwards, through valleys and past rivers. Along the way you’ll pass tea houses where you can stop off for food and drink.			It isn’t necessary to book guest houses in advance – if those I’ve recommended aren’t available then be assured that standards don’t vary much.
6	🚶Ulleri to Ghorepani hike	Dep: 07:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Super View Lodge
	3,767 stairs to Ghorepani, stopping at beautiful Ulleri village. About halfway through the walk you’ll start getting glimpses of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Once in Ghorepani leave your bags at the teahouse and take a couple of hours to rest, before ascending Poon Hill (about 45 mins away). From the top is one of the best views you’re ever likely to see.			The trekking times in this Nepal itinerary allow for a slow pace and many rest stops!
7	🚶Ghorepani to Tadapani hike	Dep: 08:30	Arr: 17:30	🏨Fishtail Lodge
	Awake at 04:00 and trek back up Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise. Return for breakfast then enjoy today’s walk through forests, over rivers, up to the highest point on the trek (about 10,000 ft) and yes, more steps. Tadapani has amazing views – including of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre – which you can admire over a recuperating drink.			Plastic water bottles can’t be bought on the trek – buy a filter water bottle. You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag, liner and towel.
8	🚶Tadapani to Naya Pul hike 🚌Syauli Bazaar to Pokhara bus	Dep: 08:00 Dep: 15:15	Arr: 14:45 Arr: 17:15	🏨The Mountain House (Book >)	All hostels >
	A relatively easy walk, descending to Naya Pul and stopping off at Ghandrung village. At the end of the trek you’ll need to wait for a passing bus back to Pokhara. Back in Pokhara treat yourself to a well-earned massage.			Do you need a guide for your trek? I don’t think so, at least not for this one which is a pretty obvious route.
9	🚌Pokhara to Dumre Bazaar bus 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Bandipur bus	Dep: 10:30 Dep: 13:30	Arr: 13:00 Arr: 14:30	🏨Hotel The North Face (Book >)	All hotels >
	Meet your guide and enjoy the drive to Bandipur. This well-preserved medieval town boasts old temples and shrines, as well as superb views of the Himalaya from Tudikhel hill.			Ask your hotel about transport from Dumre and to book your bus ticket to Sauraha.
10	🚌Bandipur to Dumre Bazaar bus 🚌Dumre Bazaar to Sauraha bus	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 10:30	Arr: 09:30 Arr: 13:30	🏨Hotel Rhino Land (Book >)	All hostels >
	Drive on to Chitwan National Park where you will spend today and tomorrow seeking out tigers, rhinos and wild elephants.			Ask your hostel to collect you from the bus stop (free service).
11	More time to see wildlife, including deer, monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars and many species of birds.			Do not ride elephants! They are often mistreated.
12	🚌Sauraha to Kathmandu bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:00	Arr: 14:00	🏨Flock Kathmandu Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Back in Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of time to see any sights you missed on days 2-4 of this Nepal itinerary. In need of souvenirs? Pick them up at Mangal Bazaar.			You can’t take Nepalese rupees out of the country; exchange before you leave.
13	Today you’re going on a flight to see Mount Everest. The flight starts early and has you back on the ground in an hour, during which time you’ll see the world’s highest peak from your guaranteed window seat.			If you want to extend your trip then consider travelling to Lukla on day 13 for a ground view of Everest.
14	✈Kathmandu to Home (Book >)	Dep: Morning	Arr: Evening	Connect this Nepal itinerary with the China or India (Rajasthan) itinerary
	Ask your hostel for help flagging a meter taxi to the airport.

🇮🇩 INDONESIA

This busy 18-day Indonesia itinerary gives travellers an amazing journey through the islands of Java, Bali and Lombok. Got some spare days? Spend longer at the beach in Lombok and Bali. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Indonesia itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax by the pool in your hotel, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon then visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨Hotel Majapahit (Book >)	See all hotels >
	Built in 1910, your hotel is a part of the history of this city. But make time to get out and see the out-of-place submarine monument.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets (I recommend paying a little more for first class AC).
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo train (Book >) 🚕Probolinggo to Cemoro Lawang taxi	Dep: 15:27 Dep: 18:15	Arr: 18:14 Arr: 19:15	🏨Bromo Terrace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna before travelling to Cemoro Lawang.			Keep small denominations of cash on you for food, taxis, drinks etc.
6	Awake before dawn to witness sunrise over the incredible Mount Bromo landscape. Then go on a guided hike over this barren terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to pack for the cold – it’s freezing before sunrise!
7	🚕Bromo to Probolinggo taxi 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi train (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk ferry (Book >) 🚕Gilimanuk to Pemuteran taxi	Dep: 10:00 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 11:00 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 17:30	🏨Matahari Beach (Book >)	All hotels >
	Descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang.			Be prepared for unreliable departure times (I’ve built in a little allowance in this Indonesia itinerary).
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚐Pemuteran to Gunung Batur drive (Book >)	Dep: 12:00	Arr: 15:00	🏨Volcano Terrace Bali (Book >)	All hotels >
	After a relaxing morning in your hotel, meet your guide who will drive you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚐Gunung Batur to Ubud drive	Dep: 10:00	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before driving on to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai minibus ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar ferry 🚐Lembar to Mataram minibus (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 11:45	🏨Hotel Oberoi Lombok (Book >)	All hotels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok. Arrive in time for sunset at the beach.			You may want to get a taxi to Denpasar and fly to Lombok, which could be faster but much less enjoyable.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, take a horse and cart to Tanjung Village and enjoy the exquisite beach.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚕Mataram to airport taxi (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar flight (Book >)	Dep: 13:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 15:00 Arr: Evening	🏨The Samaya Seminyak Bali (Book >)	All hotels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Indonesia itinerary with the Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Australia itinerary
	Soak up the sun before returning home.
Mid-range
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax by the pool in your hotel, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon then visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya train (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨Hotel Majapahit (Book >)	All hotels >
	Built in 1910, your hotel is a part of the history of this city. Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets (I recommend paying a little more for first class AC).
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo train (Book >) 🚌Probolinggo bus station to Cemoro Lawang bus	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 10:56 Arr: 13:30	🏨Bromo Terrace (Book >)	All hotels >
	Go on a guided hike over the barren Mount Bromo terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to take a bemo to Probolinggo bus station (Banyuangga).
7	🚌Bromo to Probolinggo bus station 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi train (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk ferry (Book >) 🚕Gilimanuk to Pemuteran taxi	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:00	Arr: 10:30 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 17:30	🏨Amertha Bali Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	Rise early for sunset, then descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang.			This is the coldest you’ll get on this Indonesia itinerary, so pack accordingly – it’s freezing before sunrise!
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚌Pemuteran to Gunung Batur bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨Volcano Terrace Bali (Book >)	All hotels >
	After a relaxing morning in your hotel, wait for a passing bemo to take you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚌Gunung Batur to Ubud bus	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah (Book >)	All hotels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before taking a bemo to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai bus ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar ferry 🚐Lembar to Senggigi bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:00	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 12:00	🏨Puri Mas Boutique(Book >)	All hotels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok. Arrive in time for sunset at the beach.			You may want to get a taxi to Denpasar and fly to Lombok, which could be faster but much less enjoyable.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, take a horse and cart to Tanjung Village and enjoy the exquisite beach.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚐Sengiggi to airport transfer (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar flight (Book >)	Dep: 10:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Villa Bali Asri Batubelig (Book >)	All hotels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Indonesia itinerary with the Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Australia itinerary
	Soak up the sun before returning home.
Budget
1	✈To Yogyakarta (Book >)	Dep: Morning		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Morning	🏨OTU Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	You’ll have most of the day to relax in your hostel and, if you’re feeling refreshed in the afternoon, visit some local Batik makers, the Taman Sari water castle and the opulent Kraton Palace.
3	Arrange a driver for with your hotel, because it’s all about the temples today, starting with Prambanan and ending with incredible Borobudur.			Visitors from most countries can get a visa on arrival or are exempt.
4	🚄Yogyakarta to Surabaya train (Book >)	Dep: 09:56	Arr: 15:27	🏨The Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Spend a couple of hours in Surabaya’s fascinating House of Sampoerna.			Seat 61 has excellent tips for buying Indonesian train tickets.
5	🚄Surabaya to Probolinggo train (Book >) 🚌Probolinggo bus station to Cemoro Lawang bus	Dep: 09:00 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 10:56 Arr: 13:30	🏨Cafe Lava Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Go on a guided hike over the barren Mount Bromo terrain and get close to the volcano itself.			You’ll need to take a bemo to Probolinggo bus station (Banyuangga).
7	🚌Bromo to Probolinggo bus station 🚄Probolinggo to Banyuwangi train (Book >) ⛴️Banyuwangi (Ketapang) to Gilimanuk ferry (Book >) 🚌Gilimanuk to Menjangan bus	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:04 Dep: 16:00 Dep: 17:30	Arr: 10:30 Arr: 15:20 Arr: 16:45 Arr: 18:30	🏨Bananaleaf (Book >)	All hostels >
	Rise early for sunset, then descend the Bromo area and take the train on to the end of Java. At Banyuwangi hop in a taxi to the docks at Ketapang. In Gilimanuk wait for a bemo going towards Pemuteran.			This is the coldest you’ll get on this Indonesia itinerary, so pack accordingly – it’s freezing before sunrise!
8	See Bali Barat National Park, which is full of forests, mangroves and rare wild animals. The Tegal Bunder Trail is highly recommended, as is a visit to Menjangan Island if you want to see some amazing marine life.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
9	🚌Menjangan to Gunung Batur bus (Book >)	Dep: 11:00	Arr: 15:30	🏨BlackLava Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Wait for a passing bemo to take you through northern Bali to the rim of Gunung Batur volcano.			Dress conservatively when visiting temples.
10	🚌Gunung Batur to Ubud bus	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 11:30	🏨Arya Wellness Retreat (Book >)	All hostels >
	Another early start for another stunning sunrise, before taking a bemo to the vibrant town of Ubud			The Ubud Art Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs – bargain hard!
11-12	Meet the animals at the Ubud Monkey Forest, walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, visit the Goa Gajah temple complex, Pura Taman Saraswati temple and Puri Saren, take in the air along the Campuhan Ridge Walk.			Bluebird taxis are the recommended way of making short trips. Download the app on Google Play or Apple.
13	🚐Ubud to Padangbai bus (Book >) ⛴️Padangbai to Lembar ferry (Book >) 🚌Lembar to Kuta Lombok bus	Dep: 07:00 Dep: 08:30 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 08:00 Arr: 10:35 Arr: 13:00	🏨Pipes Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	This is a day on which to enjoy the journey. From the greenery and bustle of Bali, to crossing the Bali Sea, to driving along the verdant hills of Lombok.			You’ll need to wait for a bemo in Lembar port and negotiate the price to Kuta Lombok.
14-15	Snorkel with giant sea turtles, walk beside Mount Rinjani, go surfing and enjoy the exquisite nearby beaches.			Protect the reef and wildlife by using an eco-friendly sunscreen.
16	🚐Kuta Lombok to airport transfer (Book >) ✈Lombok to Denpasar flight (Book >)	Dep: 10:00 Dep: Afternoon	Arr: 10:30 Arr: Afternoon	🏨Pudak Sari Unizou Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Fly back to Bali and relax on the beach when you arrive.			If red flags are flown on the beach do not swim – there are dangerous undercurrents here.
17-18	✈Denpasar to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this Indonesia itinerary with the Thailand, Malaysia & Borneo or Australia itinerary
	Soak up the sun before returning home.

🇰🇭 CAMBODIA

A lot of people visit Cambodia as part of a longer trip, but there’s so many phenomenal sights here that it justifies its own two-week holiday . Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your Cambodia itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨La Rose Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll arrive in the evening, so take some time to relax after the long flight.
3	Ease in to life in Cambodia with a gentle day of sightseeing in the capital. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are peaceful and magnificent buildings worthy of a couple of hours of your time. Next door is the National Museum of Cambodia, full of ancient Angkorian artefacts. End the day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.			Get your eVisa for Cambodia online here.
4	🚐Phnom Penh to Kratie minibus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 15:30	🏨Rajabori Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll arrive into Kratie in plenty of time to see the sun set over the Mekong on Koh Trong Island – the perfect start to a visit of this relaxing location.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
5	Kayak or cruise along the river to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. In the afternoon admire the Kratie’s French-era architecture and tour the temples in and around town.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
6	🚐Kratie to Phnom Penh minibus (Book >) 🚐Phnom Penh to Kep minibus (Book >)	Dep: 08:30 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 18:30	🏨Knai Bang Chatt Resort (Book >)	All hotels >
	The longest day of travel on this Cambodia itinerary, rewarded with ending at the spectacular beaches of gorgeous Kep.			Try to book your bus in advance during busy periods.
7-8	Spend a couple of days (or more) on the beach. Take the 20-minute boat ride to tranquil Rabbit Island and, if you get bored of the sand, visit a pepper farm or the nearby Bokor Hill Station.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
9	🚐Kep to Phnom Penh minibus (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Siem Reap bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:15 Arr: 17:30	🏨Shinta Mani Angkor (Book >)	All hotels >
	Say goodbye to the beach and hello to another day of bus travel. But at the end of it you’ll be in bustling Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor Wat. Buy your multi-day ticket after 5pm and it will only count from the next day.			Miss the connection to Siem Reap? No problem, buses depart until 18:00.
10-11	The Angkor Archaeological Park covers 400 square kilometres, so hire a car and driver to explore the site. Must-sees include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom. Other places for your list are the Terrace of the Leper King, Baphuon, Srah Srang, Preah Ko (Sacred Bull), Baksei Chamkrong, Elephant Terrace, Pre Rup, East Mebon and Preah Khan. At the end of the day go to Phnom Bakheng for sunset.			Ask your hotel to help arrange a car and driver.
12	✈Siem Reap to Phnom Penh flight (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨La Rose Suites (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time to see more temples, or any that you may have missed out on during days 10-11.			Continuing to Laos? Book your bus from Siem Reap to Don Det (4000 Islands) here (bus departs at 08:00).
13-14	✈Phnom Penh to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Cambodia itinerary with the Thailand or Vietnam itinerary
	Take some culinary inspiration home with you on a food tour.
Mid-range
1	✈To Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨IRoHa Garden (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll arrive in the evening, so take some time to relax after the long flight.
3	Ease in to life in Cambodia with a gentle day of sightseeing in the capital. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are peaceful and magnificent buildings worthy of a couple of hours of your time. Next door is the National Museum of Cambodia, full of ancient Angkorian artefacts. End the day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.			Get your eVisa for Cambodia online here.
4	🚌Phnom Penh to Kratie bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 16:30	🏨Rajabori Villas (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll arrive into Kratie in plenty of time to see the sun set over the Mekong on Koh Trong Island – the perfect start to a visit of this relaxing location.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
5	Kayak or cruise along the river to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. In the afternoon admire the Kratie’s French-era architecture and tour the temples in and around town.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
6	🚌Kratie to Phnom Penh bus (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Kep bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 18:30	🏨Samanea Beach (Book >)	All hotels >
	The longest day of travel on this Cambodia itinerary, rewarded with ending at the spectacular beaches of gorgeous Kep.			Try to book your bus in advance during busy periods.
7-8	Spend a couple of days (or more) on the beach. Take the 20-minute boat ride to tranquil Rabbit Island and, if you get bored of the sand, visit a pepper farm or the nearby Bokor Hill Station.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
9	🚌Kep to Phnom Penh bus (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Siem Reap bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:15 Arr: 17:30	🏨Golden Temple (Book >)	All hotels >
	Say goodbye to the beach and hello to another day of bus travel. But at the end of it you’ll be in bustling Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor Wat. Buy your multi-day ticket after 5pm and it will only count from the next day.			Miss the connection to Siem Reap? No problem, buses depart until 18:00.
10-11	The Angkor Archaeological Park covers 400 square kilometres, so hire a car and driver to explore the site. Must-sees include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom. Other places for your list are the Terrace of the Leper King, Baphuon, Srah Srang, Preah Ko (Sacred Bull), Baksei Chamkrong, Elephant Terrace, Pre Rup, East Mebon and Preah Khan. At the end of the day go to Phnom Bakheng for sunset.			Ask your hotel to help arrange a car and driver.
12	✈Siem Reap to Phnom Penh bus (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨IRoHa Garden (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time to see more temples, or any that you may have missed out on during days 10-11.			Continuing to Laos? Book your bus from Siem Reap to Don Det (4000 Islands) here (bus departs at 08:00).
13-14	✈Phnom Penh to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Cambodia itinerary with the Thailand or Vietnam itinerary
	Take some culinary inspiration home with you on a food tour.
Budget
1	✈To Phnom Penh (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Evening	🏨Envoy Hostel (Book >)	See all hostels >
	You’ll arrive in the evening, so take some time to relax after the long flight.
3	Ease in to life in Cambodia with a gentle day of sightseeing in the capital. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are peaceful and magnificent buildings worthy of a couple of hours of your time. Next door is the National Museum of Cambodia, full of ancient Angkorian artefacts. End the day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.			Get your eVisa for Cambodia online here.
4	🚌Phnom Penh to Kratie bus (Book >)	Dep: 09:30	Arr: 16:30	🏨Hotel River Dolphin (Book >)	All hotels >
	You’ll arrive into Kratie in plenty of time to see the sun set over the Mekong on Koh Trong Island – the perfect start to a visit of this relaxing location.			Save the environment by using a filter water bottle.
5	Kayak or cruise along the river to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. In the afternoon admire the Kratie’s French-era architecture and tour the temples in and around town.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
6	🚌Kratie to Phnom Penh bus (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Kep bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 15:00	Arr: 14:30 Arr: 18:30	🏨Khmer Hands Bungalows (Book >)	All hotels >
	The longest day of travel on this Cambodia itinerary, rewarded with ending at the spectacular beaches of gorgeous Kep.			Try to book your bus in advance during busy periods.
7-8	Spend a couple of days (or more) on the beach. Take the 20-minute boat ride to tranquil Rabbit Island and, if you get bored of the sand, visit a pepper farm or the nearby Bokor Hill Station.			Ensure your boatmen protect the dolphins by only using oars when near them.
9	🚌Kep to Phnom Penh bus (Book >) 🚌Phnom Penh to Siem Reap bus (Book >)	Dep: 07:30 Dep: 11:30	Arr: 11:15 Arr: 17:30	🏨Lub d (Book >)	All hostels >
	Say goodbye to the beach and hello to another day of bus travel. But at the end of it you’ll be in bustling Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor Wat. Buy your multi-day ticket after 5pm and it will only count from the next day.			Miss the connection to Siem Reap? No problem, buses depart until 18:00.
10-11	Must-sees here include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom. Other places for your list are the Terrace of the Leper King, Baphuon, Srah Srang, Preah Ko (Sacred Bull), Baksei Chamkrong, Elephant Terrace, Pre Rup, East Mebon and Preah Khan. At the end of the day go to Phnom Bakheng for sunset.			Hire a bicycle, take your time and enjoy sedate, peaceful journeys around the site. If you want to go further then a tuk-tuk can be good value (ask the hostel for advice).
12	✈Siem Reap to Phnom Penh flight (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening	🏨Envoy Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	More time to see more temples, or any that you may have missed out on during days 10-11.			Continuing to Laos? Book your bus from Siem Reap to Don Det (4000 Islands) here (bus departs at 08:00).
13-14	✈Phnom Penh to Home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Evening (next day)	Connect this Cambodia itinerary with the Laos, Thailand or Vietnam itinerary
	Take some culinary inspiration home with you on a food tour.

🇨🇳 CHINA

A massive country with a huge population and millennia of history – there’s a whole lot to see in fascinating and friendly China. Click for Luxury, Mid-range or Budget.

Here’s your China itinerary:

Print this itinerary

Luxury
1	✈To Beijing (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Four Seasons (Book >)	All hotels >
	For the rest of today relax and recover from your flight.
3	Spend a few hours in the Imperial Palace and Forbidden City. Afterwards take in the immense Tiananmen Square which is nearby, as is the 600 year-old Temple of Heaven.			You must book your Imperial Palace and Forbidden City tickets in advance on the official website (which is in Chinese – Google Translate will help).
4	🚄Beijing Huangtudian to Badaling train	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 13:53	🏨Commune By The Great Wall (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi to the beautiful Summer Palace in the morning, then onwards to Badaling from where you can take the cable car up to the Great Wall and hike one of the most stunning sections.			Buy and top up a Beijing Metro card for the journey to/from the Great Wall – these tickets can’t be bought in advance.
5	🚄Badaling to Beijing Huangtudian train 🚄Beijing South to Shanghai train(Book >)	Dep: 11:21 Dep: 13:35	Arr: 12:24 Arr: 19:17	🏨Fairmont Peace (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time, if you want, to visit the Great Wall before returning to Beijing for the bullet train to Shanghai.			Train tickets bought online are only available up to 60 days before departure.
6	Start your day on top of the huge World Financial Center and experience the 100 storey-high Sky Walk. Take a boat tour along the main canal of Zhujiajiao then do some shopping on Nanjing Road. Head to the Ming Dynasty Yuyuan Garden in the late afternoon then on to the Bund for a night time stroll.			Learn a few basic Mandarin Chinese words – even attempting the local language is appreciated.
7	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train (Book >)	Dep: 18:46		🏨Sleeper train
	See the Jade Buddha Temple and Shanghai Museum before catching your sleeper train to Xi’an.			You’ll need your tickets and ID to board the train.
8	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train		Arr: 09:20	🏨W Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	See the Terracotta Warriors and attached museum, then enjoy a bicycle ride along the city walls and visit to the Banpo Museum – all with your personal guide.			Ask your guide for restaurant recommendations – the ones around the Terracotta Warriors museum are poor quality.
9	🚄Xi’an to Chengdu train (Book >) 🚄Chengdu to Emei Shan train (Book >)	Dep: 08:07 Dep: 12:10	Arr: 11:57 Arr: 14:09	🏨Golden Summit Hotel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi from Emeishan station to Baogou Temple and from there a bus to Leidong Ping. Here you can ride the cable car up to the Golden Summit and your hotel for the night.			Take motion sickness tables for the bus, which is the only form of transport allowed on the national park roads.
10	🚄Emei Shan to Chengdu train (Book >)	Dep: 16:54	Arr: 18:15	🏨The Ritz Carlton (Book >)	All hotels >
	Explore the Golden Summit and hikes nearby, then return to Leidong Ping via cable car and Baogou on the bus. If you have the energy see Chengdu’s Jinli Ancient Street at night.			Be very careful with the monkeys around the Golden Summit – they are very aggressive.
11	Take Metro line 4 to Kuanzhaixiangzi then meet the locals in the People’s Park. Admire the impressive Wenshu Temple and, if you have time, go to the Chengdu Panda Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. At dusk see the synchronised water show at Tianfu Square.			The Chengdu Metro is a good way of getting around the city, although your bags may need to go through an x-ray machine before you enter.
12	🚄Chengdu to Chongqing train (Book >)	Dep: 15:52	Arr: 17:25	🏨Niccolo (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning then take the fast train to Chongqing. After dinner your cruise along the Yangtze will depart at 21:00 (call to book).			Take mosquito repellant for the cruise.
13-14	Your ship will carry you past mountains and farmland and through spectacular gorges. Highlights include the ornate Shibaozhai Pagoda, serene Shennv Stream and the vast Three Gorges dam.			Remember to take cash for tipping porters.
15	✈Yichang to Guilin flight (Book >) 🚕Guilin to Yangshuo taxi	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Banyan Tree(Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive into Yanghsuo mid-afternoon and delight at the incredible scenery around town.			Ask the taxi driver to take the highway and pay them the additional toll fee.
16	Explore the area by boat, bike, foot or all of the above.			Don’t buy too many souvenirs in Yangshuo as they’re often overpriced (this page has a good guide).
17	🚄Yangshuo to Guangzhou train (Book >) 🚄Guangzhou to Hong Kong train (Book >)	Dep: 09:51 Dep: 12:13	Arr: 11:55 Arr: 13:29	🏨The Upper House (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags at the hotel and start ticking off the sights in Hong Kong, starting with a trip across the water with Star Ferries. Walk along the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. When the sun goes down join the throngs at Temple Street Night Market.			Buy an Octopus Card for easy access to the Hong Kong transport system.
18	Start your day with a historic tram ride up to Victoria Peak. Journey out to the massive Tian Tian Buddha. Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. Tonight take in the spectacular Symphony of Lights.			A filter water bottle will come in handy when visiting China and Hong Kong.
19-20	✈Hong Kong to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this China itinerary with the Vietnam or Thailand itinerary
	Enjoy a relaxing day, first visiting Man Mo Temple then in serene Hong Kong Park. The Metro is the best way to get to the airport.
Mid-range
1	✈To Beijing (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Hotel East (Book >)	All hotels >
	For the rest of today relax and recover from your flight.
3	Spend a few hours in the Imperial Palace and Forbidden City. Afterwards take in the immense Tiananmen Square which is nearby, as is the 600 year-old Temple of Heaven.			You must book your Imperial Palace and Forbidden City tickets in advance on the official website (which is in Chinese – Google Translate will help).
4	🚄Beijing Huangtudian to Badaling train	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 13:53	🏨Delight Inn (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a taxi to the beautiful Summer Palace in the morning, then onwards to Badaling from where you can take the cable car up to the Great Wall and hike one of the most stunning sections.			Buy and top up a Beijing Metro card for the journey to/from the Great Wall – these tickets can’t be bought in advance.
5	🚄Badaling to Beijing Huangtudian train 🚄Beijing South to Shanghai train(Book >)	Dep: 11:21 Dep: 13:35	Arr: 12:24 Arr: 19:17	🏨Le Méridien Minhang (Book >)	All hotels >
	More time, if you want, to visit the Great Wall before returning to Beijing for the bullet train to Shanghai.			Train tickets bought online are only available up to 60 days before departure.
6	Start your day on top of the huge World Financial Center and experience the 100 storey-high Sky Walk. Take a boat tour along the main canal of Zhujiajiao then do some shopping on Nanjing Road. Head to the Ming Dynasty Yuyuan Garden in the late afternoon then on to the Bund for a night time stroll.			Learn a few basic Mandarin Chinese words – even attempting the local language is appreciated.
7	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train (Book >)	Dep: 18:46		🏨Sleeper train
	See the Jade Buddha Temple and Shanghai Museum before catching your sleeper train to Xi’an.			You’ll need your tickets and ID to board the train.
8	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train		Arr: 09:20	🏨Hotel Tang Dynasty West Market (Book >)	All hotels >
	See the Terracotta Warriors and attached museum, then enjoy a bicycle ride along the city walls and visit to the Banpo Museum – all with your personal guide.			Ask your guide for restaurant recommendations – the ones around the Terracotta Warriors museum are poor quality.
9	🚄Xi’an to Chengdu train (Book >) 🚄Chengdu to Emei Shan train (Book >)	Dep: 08:07 Dep: 12:10	Arr: 11:57 Arr: 14:09	🏨Baoguo Temple (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take bus 5A to Baogou Temple. You’ll then have the rest of the day to hike in the Emei Shan national park. Tonight you’ll stay in a working monastery which, whilst perhaps not the most comfortable experience, will certainly be memorable.			Take motion sickness tables for the bus to Leidong Ping, which is the only form of transport allowed on the national park roads.
10	🚄Emei Shan to Chengdu train (Book >)	Dep: 19:25	Arr: 20:46	🏨Shimao Yuluxe (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take a bus to Leidong Ping then ride the cable car up to the Golden Summit Return to Baoguo to collect your bags and head to the station. If you have the energy see Chengdu’s Jinli Ancient Street at night.			Be very careful with the monkeys around the Golden Summit – they are very aggressive.
11	Take Metro line 4 to Kuanzhaixiangzi then meet the locals in the People’s Park. Admire the impressive Wenshu Temple and, if you have time, go to the Chengdu Panda Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. At dusk see the synchronised water show at Tianfu Square.			The Chengdu Metro is a good way of getting around the city, although your bags may need to go through an x-ray machine before you enter.
12	🚄Chengdu to Chongqing train (Book >)	Dep: 15:52	Arr: 17:25	🏨Kempinski (Book >)	All hotels >
	Enjoy a relaxing morning then take the fast train to Chongqing. After dinner your cruise along the Yangtze will depart at 21:00 (call to book).			Take mosquito repellant for the cruise.
13-14	Your ship will carry you past mountains and farmland and through spectacular gorges. Highlights include the ornate Shibaozhai Pagoda, serene Shennv Stream and the vast Three Gorges dam.			Remember to take cash for tipping porters.
15	✈Yichang to Guilin flight (Book >) 🚕Guilin to Yangshuo taxi	Dep: Morning	Arr: Afternoon	🏨Yangshuo Mountain Nest (Book >)	All hotels >
	Arrive into Yanghsuo mid-afternoon and delight at the incredible scenery around town.			Ask the taxi driver to take the highway and pay them the additional toll fee.
16	Explore the area by boat, bike, foot or all of the above.			Don’t buy too many souvenirs in Yangshuo as they’re often overpriced (this page has a good guide).
17	🚄Yangshuo to Guangzhou train (Book >) 🚄Guangzhou to Hong Kong train (Book >)	Dep: 09:51 Dep: 12:13	Arr: 11:55 Arr: 13:29	🏨The T (Book >)	All hotels >
	Drop your bags at the hotel and start ticking off the sights in Hong Kong, starting with a trip across the water with Star Ferries. Walk along the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. When the sun goes down join the throngs at Temple Street Night Market.			Buy an Octopus Card for easy access to the Hong Kong transport system.
18	Start your day with a historic tram ride up to Victoria Peak. Journey out to the massive Tian Tian Buddha. Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. Tonight take in the spectacular Symphony of Lights.			A filter water bottle will come in handy when visiting China and Hong Kong.
19-20	✈Hong Kong to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this China itinerary with the Vietnam or Thailand itinerary
	Enjoy a relaxing day, first visiting Man Mo Temple then in serene Hong Kong Park. The Metro is the best way to get to the airport.
Budget
1	✈To Beijing (Book >)	Dep: Evening		🏨 In flight!
2			Arr: Afternoon	🏨Kellys Courtyard (Book >)	All hostels >
	For the rest of today relax and recover from your flight in this beautiful hostel located in a traditional Hutong.
3	Spend a few hours in the Imperial Palace and Forbidden City. Afterwards take in the immense Tiananmen Square which is nearby, as is the 600 year-old Temple of Heaven.			You must book your Imperial Palace and Forbidden City tickets in advance on the official website (which is in Chinese – Google Translate will help).
4	🚄Beijing Huangtudian to Badaling train	Dep: 12:40	Arr: 13:53	🏨Great Wall Cao’s Courtyard Hostel (Book >)	All hotels >
	Take either metro line 4 to Beigongmen station or 10 to Bagou station and visit the beautiful Summer Palace in the morning, then onwards to Badaling from where you can take the cable car up to the Great Wall and hike one of the most stunning sections.			Buy and top up a Beijing Metro card for the journey to/from the Great Wall – these tickets can’t be bought in advance.
5	🚄Badaling to Beijing Huangtudian train 🚄Beijing South to Shanghai train(Book >)	Dep: 11:21 Dep: 13:35	Arr: 12:24 Arr: 19:17	🏨The Phoenix (Book >)	All hostels >
	More time, if you want, to visit the Great Wall before returning to Beijing for the bullet train to Shanghai.			Train tickets bought online are only available up to 60 days before departure.
6	Start your day on top of the huge World Financial Center and experience the 100 storey-high Sky Walk. Take a boat tour along the main canal of Zhujiajiao then do some shopping on Nanjing Road. Head to the Ming Dynasty Yuyuan Garden in the late afternoon then on to the Bund for a night time stroll.			Learn a few basic Mandarin Chinese words – even attempting the local language is appreciated.
7	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train (Book >)	Dep: 18:46		🏨Sleeper train
	See the Jade Buddha Temple and Shanghai Museum before catching your sleeper train to Xi’an.			You’ll need your tickets and ID to board the train.
8	🚄Shanghai to Xi’an train		Arr: 09:20	🏨Hantang Inn (Book >)	All hostels >
	See the Terracotta Warriors and attached museum, then enjoy a bicycle ride along the city walls and visit to the Banpo Museum – all with your personal guide.			Ask your guide for restaurant recommendations – the ones around the Terracotta Warriors museum are poor quality.
9	🚄Xi’an to Chengdu train (Book >) 🚄Chengdu to Emei Shan train (Book >)	Dep: 08:07 Dep: 12:10	Arr: 11:57 Arr: 14:09	🏨Baoguo Temple (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take bus 5A to Baogou Temple. You’ll then have the rest of the day to hike in the Emei Shan national park. Tonight you’ll stay in a working monastery which, whilst perhaps not the most comfortable experience, will certainly be memorable.			Take motion sickness tables for the bus to Leidong Ping, which is the only form of transport allowed on the national park roads.
10	🚄Emei Shan to Chengdu train (Book >)	Dep: 19:25	Arr: 20:46	🏨POSHPACKER FlipFlop Hostel (Book >)	All hostels >
	Take a bus to Leidong Ping then ride the cable car up to the Golden Summit Return to Baoguo to collect your bags and head to the station. If you have the energy see Chengdu’s Jinli Ancient Street at night.			Be very careful with the monkeys around the Golden Summit – they are very aggressive.
11	Take Metro line 4 to Kuanzhaixiangzi then meet the locals in the People’s Park. Admire the impressive Wenshu Temple and, if you have time, go to the Chengdu Panda Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. At dusk see the synchronised water show at Tianfu Square.			The Chengdu Metro is a good way of getting around the city, although your bags may need to go through an x-ray machine before you enter.
12	🚄Chengdu to Chongqing train (Book >)	Dep: 15:52	Arr: 17:25	🏨Onboard the ship
	Enjoy a relaxing morning then take the fast train to Chongqing. After dinner your cruise (book here) along the Yangtze will depart at 21:00.			Take mosquito repellant for the cruise.
13-14	Your ship will carry you past mountains and farmland and through spectacular gorges. Highlights include the ornate Shibaozhai Pagoda, serene Shennv Stream and the vast Three Gorges dam.			Remember to take cash for tipping porters.
15	✈Yichang to Guilin flight (Book >) 🚌Guilin to Yangshuo bus	Dep: Morning Dep: 13:30/15:30	Arr: Afternoon Arr: 14:50/16:50	🏨Yangshuo Sudder Street Guesthouse (Book >)	All hostels >
	Arrive into Yanghsuo mid-afternoon and delight at the incredible scenery around town.			Buy shuttle bus tickets from the ticket offices near the airport bus stops.
16	Explore the area by boat, bike, foot or all of the above.			Don’t buy too many souvenirs in Yangshuo as they’re often overpriced (this page has a good guide).
17	🚄Yangshuo to Guangzhou train (Book >) 🚄Guangzhou to Hong Kong train (Book >)	Dep: 09:51 Dep: 12:13	Arr: 11:55 Arr: 13:29	🏨Wontonmeen (Book >)	All hostels >
	Drop your bags at the hotel and start ticking off the sights in Hong Kong, starting with a trip across the water with Star Ferries. Walk along the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. When the sun goes down join the throngs at Temple Street Night Market.			Buy an Octopus Card for easy access to the Hong Kong transport system.
18	Start your day with a historic tram ride up to Victoria Peak. Journey out to the massive Tian Tian Buddha. Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. Tonight take in the spectacular Symphony of Lights.			Many Hong Kong museums are free to enter on Wednesdays.
19-20	✈Hong Kong to home (Book >)	Dep: Evening	Arr: Morning (next day)	Connect this China itinerary with the Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam or Thailand itinerary
	Enjoy a relaxing day, first visiting Man Mo Temple then in serene Hong Kong Park. The Metro is the best way to get to the airport.