The Indian port city of Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is located on the island of Salsette, off the west coast of Maharashtra. Mumbai is not only India's economic center and fashion powerhouse it is also one of the most populous cities in the world with an estimated 14 million residents. It is home to theaters, unique bazaars, hidden temples, hipster hang-outs and some of the country's prime restaurants and nightlife. 'Bollywood' is also located in Mumbai - you can take a tour around Film City or be an extra in one of the upcoming movies.

The Indian port city of Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is located on the island of Salsette, off the west coast of Maharashtra. Mumbai is not only India's economic center and fashion powerhouse it is also one of the most populous cities in the world with an estimated 14 million residents. It is home to theaters, unique bazaars, hidden temples, hipster hang-outs and some of the country's prime restaurants and nightlife. 'Bollywood' is also located in Mumbai - you can take a tour around Film City or be an extra in one of the upcoming movies.

The Indian port city of Mangalore is located in a picturesque lagoon on the Arabian Sea. Mangalore is heavily dotted with coconut plantations and can easily be mistaken for a relaxed rural town. Do not be fooled, it is one of the country's busiest and most important ports, handling 75% of India's coffee and cashew exports. The city is also the state's 'cradle of education' with over 50 different colleges. However, tourists use it mostly as a gateway to the Konkan coast and the inland Kodagu region.

Kochi is located in southwestern India on the coast of the Arabian Sea. The city's shores have attracted traders and travellers for over 600 years, making it to a melting pot of cultures it is today. You will find an ancient mosque standing alongside a 400 year old synagogue, Portuguese houses and giant fishing nets from China, British colonial and modern Keralan artifacts - these all make up one delightful city. Kochi is divided into small islands that are all linked by a network of ferries and bridges.

Overnight

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and should definitely be on your must-see list when visiting the island. The city used to be known as 'the garden city of the East' and though unlikely to reclaim this moniker, it is still a compelling place. The colonial architecture of the Fort, the lively markets of Pettah and growing number of stylish galleries and shops make Colombo an excellent start or finish to your Sri Lankan expedition. The ever-growing number of eateries serving anything from Sri Lankan to street food, is another reason travellers are starting to flood to the city.

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and should definitely be on your must-see list when visiting the island. The city used to be known as 'the garden city of the East' and though unlikely to reclaim this moniker, it is still a compelling place. The colonial architecture of the Fort, the lively markets of Pettah and growing number of stylish galleries and shops make Colombo an excellent start or finish to your Sri Lankan expedition. The ever-growing number of eateries serving anything from Sri Lankan to street food, is another reason travellers are starting to flood to the city.

After the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami devastated the underdeveloped town of Hambantota, the Sri Lankan government started several development projects to transform the town into the second largest urban hub in the country. Some of these projects include the construction of a new seaport, the international Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, which was completed in 2013, and the Hambantota Cricket Stadium.