Experience History and Spirituality in South Asia | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Experience History and Spirituality in South Asia

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PRIVATE TOUR - 16 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 4755

Private Tour Highlights

  • See how the Old and the New meet in Delhi
  • Journey through the verdant green forests of Chitwan National Park
  • Visit Kathmandu, a center for Hindus and Buddhists alike
  • Stroll past various colorful and fresh markets
  • Check out thriving populations of leopards in Chitwan
  • Visit one of the last sanctuaries for the one-horned Rhinoceros
  • Trek through flowing grasslands and vast marshes
  • Explore the rich cultural history of the Mughal Empire
  • Stroll through the chambers of former Indian royalty
  • See the many beautiful palaces inside Mehangarh Fort
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

To create an even more diverse array of experiences, spend a week in Nepal after your magnificent tour of India’s most celebrated cities. In Nepal, enjoy a few days exploring Kathmandu followed by a safari through the unique Chitwan National Park. Here you can enjoy elephant back safaris while tracking the rare one-horned rhinoceros, sloth bears and even Bengal tigers.

From Udaipur you will depart to Kathmandu, Nepal. A spiritual center for Hindus and Buddhists alike, Kathmandu is an intensely urban area woven with narrow alleys, colorful markets and countless temples and shrines. While in Kathmandu, you will begin to understand Nepal’s proud culture and heritage as you tour the sites. With a new found knowledge of Nepal’s historical and cultural heritage, escape the city life for a few days in the wild jungles of Chitwan National Park.

Covering an expanse of 932 square kilometers (360 sq miles), Chitwan protects ecosystems of lush forests, water marshes and flowing grasslands, as well as a diverse array of rare animals. The park is renowned as one of the last refuges of the endangered one-horned rhino and sizeable populations of leopards, tigers and the rare Gangetic dolphin. Home to 43 species of mammals, Chitwan also protects populations of gaur (Indian bison), elephant, four horned antelope, sloth bear, striped hyena, pangolin (a scaly anteater), monitor lizards, pythons and much more. Additionally, the park boasts over 450 species of birds and 45 species of amphibians.

Inclusions
Price Includes:
One way regional flight from Udaipur to Kathmandu, all accommodations with continental or buffet breakfast, service of chaufeured air-conditioned vehicle, one time entrance fees at all monuments and park fees, all specified activities, services of English speaking local guide for excursions, all currently applicable taxes including service tax.

Notes:
* The Red Fort in Delhi remains closed on every Monday

* The Taj Mahal in Agra remains closed on every Friday

* Game drives are operated on a shared basis with other guests

* Chitwan National Park is closed during the months of July, August and September.

* Additional supplements may apply between 1 – 20 November, 20 December – 10 January and 1 – 28 February. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more details.

Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 4755

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

International flight to New Delhi

Overnight international flight to New Delhi.

Overnight international flight to New Delhi.

Day
2

Arrival in New Delhi

Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

gate-delhi-india
Day
3

Tour of New Delhi

Begin the morning tour of Old Delhi with a cycle rickshaw ride through the streets. Make a panoramic visit to the Red Fort, which was the most affluent fort and palace of the once reigning Mughal Empire. Then it’s on to Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. The final stop in Old Delhi will lead to Chandni Chowk (closed on Sunday), a lively and colorful market that was once the commercial center of the city.
Then drive to New Delhi, which will provide a stark contrast between the old and the new; a recurring theme throughout India. In New Delhi visit the India Gate monument, followed by the grounds of the Parliament House and other extravagant government buildings. Then continue to Humayun’s Tomb, built in honor of India’s second Mughal emperor. Later visit the world’s tallest brick minaret, Qutub Minar.


Note: Yampu recommends an optional tour (price not included) to enjoy a fine dinner at the Veda Restaurant, a lavishly designed nouvelle cuisine curry house that offers a fusion of traditional Indian food with a modern spin. A second option is a visit to Akshardham, a unique, yet stunning monument that boasts 234 elaborately carved pillars, 9 decorative domes, 20 quadrangled shikhars (towers of Hindu architecture), stone elephant sculptures, and 20,000 murtis (Hindu images portraying Divine spirits). Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more information.
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Day
4

New Delhi – Agra

Begin with a drive to Agra that will take approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Then proceed for a sightseeing tour of the stunning Taj Mahal, India’s most picture perfect work of architecture and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Driving through the city to the Agra Fort, there will be great photo ops of the local scene and bazaars, and the everyday buzz of India. Once at the Agra Fort, stroll through its regal chambers that were once home to some of India’s most powerful Mughal emperors


Note: Yampu recommends an optional tour (cost not included) to a showing of Mohhabbat The Taj, a live show with a touch of Bollywood. This 80 minute presentation is a charming way to top off the day at the Kalakriti Auditorium. Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more details.
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Delhi-India
Day
5

Agra – Jaipur

Drive approximately 4-5 hours to Jaipur. En route, stop to enjoy an excursion to the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, the once imperial city of the Mughal dynasty that was mysteriously deserted years after its inception. This ornate city was built with such grandeur that words do not do justice to the glorious atmosphere created by its buildings. Upon arrival, check in and have some time to relax before a sound and light show at the city’s Amber Fort.

Drive approximately 4-5 hours to Jaipur. En route, stop to enjoy an excursion to the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, the once imperial city of the Mughal dynasty that was mysteriously deserted years after its inception. This ornate city was built with such grandeur that words do not do justice to the glorious atmosphere created by its buildings. Upon arrival, check in and have some time to relax before a sound and light show at the city’s Amber Fort.

jaipur-india
Day
6

Tour of the Amber Fort

This morning return to the Amber Fort for a half day excursion. Strolling through the magnificent rooms and chambers, observe the various intricate ivory, mirror and glass work. In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour that will begin at the City Palace Museum, followed by a visit to Jantar Mantar (an accurate observatory built in 1726), and great photographic opportunity at the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds – a spectacular five storied, honeycomb styled building exemplifying superb Rajput artistry.


Note: Yampu recommends an optional tour (price not included) of an evening elephant safari. After a chance to feed these gentle creatures, ride upon their backs through a private jungle area, passing many villages, fields and a medieval fortress as the sun sets. Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more information.
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Day
7

Jaipur – Jodhpur

Transfer read more...

Transfer to Jodhpur. This is approximately a 5 hour drive. Once settled in, begin an afternoon tour of the city. Exploring the second largest city of Rajasthan, first visit the Mehangarh Fort. Within its great walls (which remain scarred from cannon balls), meander through its impressive courtyards and many small palaces. Of these, the most notable palaces to visit are Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palce), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana.
Visit the fort’s museum, which hosts a fine selection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniature paintings, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. Stroll to the top of the fort for great photographic views of the sprawling Blue City that lies below. Then visit the spectacular Jaswant Thada, a pure white marble memorial built to commemorate Maharaja Singh II. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the city or perhaps walk through the colorful bizarres.


Note: Yampu recommends a Jeep Safari to the nearby Guda Bishnoi Village (at added cost) to experience a sense of tribal India. 25 kilometers outside of Jodhpur, find the Bisnoi community, a group of faithful worshippers of nature and the sanctity of plant and animal life. A natural desert oasis, this is a great place to experience the customs of tribal life and enjoy its beautiful natural surroundings.
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jodhpur_fort_india
Day
8

Jodhpur – Udaipur

Begin the drive south from Jodhpur to Udaipur. This is approximately a 5-6 hour drive, but will be broken up by visiting the Jain Temples of Ranakpur. The more renowned Jain temple boasts over 1400 marble pillars that are carved in exquisite detail. Opposite this temple, visit the much older Sun Temple. Then continue the drive to Udaipur. Once checked in at the hotel, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Begin the drive south from Jodhpur to Udaipur. This is approximately a 5-6 hour drive, but will be broken up by visiting the Jain Temples of Ranakpur. The more renowned Jain temple boasts over 1400 marble pillars that are carved in exquisite detail. Opposite this temple, visit the much older Sun Temple. Then continue the drive to Udaipur. Once checked in at the hotel, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

India_Udaipur_Ranakpur_Jain_Temple
Day
9

Tour of the City Palace Museum & Lake Pichola

This morning will begin by visiting the City Palace Museum. The museum preserves the architectural extravagance of the palace; the granite and marble balconies, lavish arches and cupolas, and octagonal towers that offer fine views of the surrounding lake and city. Adjacent to the north entrance, lies the Jagdish Temple. Lavishly designed and enshrined with stone images of Krishna, this is celebrated as the city’s largest temple. Then, visit Sahelion Ki Bari, a remarkable garden once designed for the royal ladies of the palace.
Later in the afternoon, relax on a boat cruise upon the serene Lake Pichola. See the fascinating Jagmandir Island Palace. Before returning to the hotel, have time to peruse through the open air markets that sprawl behind the City Palace.


Note: Yampu recommends a tour of the Crystal Gallerey (price not included), which displays a breathtaking collection of crystal items, including tables, sofa sets, dressers, fountains and even beds comes highly recommended. Horesback riding through the peaceful nature and stunning landscape outside of the city is also offered (price not included). Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more details.
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Day
10

Udaipur – Kathmandu

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, airport reception and transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, airport reception and transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

kathmandu-nepal-monks
Day
11

Tour of Kathmandu City

Enjoy a guided tour of Kathmandu City beginning with Kumari Ghar – home to Nepal’s most important living goddess, and the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. Then, proceed to the Kal Brairab shrine, a colorful memorial to the Hindu God of destruction, followed by a visit to Taleju Temple, the city’s most magnificent temple.


Afterwards, embark on a sightseeing tour of the Swayambhunath Stupa. Celebrated as one of the oldest Buddhist stupas in the world, this majestic structure sits highly on a nearby hilltop overlooking Kathmandu Valley (The April 2015 earthquake caused major damage to this Heritage Site and reconstruction is currently taking place). In the afternoon, travel through Patan, the “City of Fine Arts”. Stroll through the famous Durbar Square, where Krishna Mandir, a temple built in honor of Lord Krishna that is considered to be the world’s finest example of stone architecture, can be seen. While walking around, enjoy the many traditional artists and sculptors throughout the streets (Due to the April 2015 earthquake, some of the temples here have been damaged and reconstruction is under process.)


Note: Yampu recommends an optional one-hour mountain flight for unforgettable aerial views of the Himalayas. Experience the thrill of seeing Mount Everest up close, as the plane flies two aeronautical miles in front of the Natural Wonder. Please inquire with a Yampu travel consultant for more details.
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Day
12

Visits to Pashupatinathm & Bhaktapur

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Morning visit to Pashupatinath, Nepal’s oldest and most holy Hindu temple. Situated upon the banks of the Bagmati River, this is an important ritual and cremation site, as the water flows into the Ganges. Proceed to Boudhanath, one of Asia’s largest stupas that has earned the nickname of “Little Tibet”, as it has become a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism. Standing tall at thirty-six meters (118 ft), this white mandala-shaped structure is a symbol of the universe that facilitates meditation for the local Tibetan Buddhists. (The top portion of the Stupa was slightly damaged by the April 2015 earthquake. Currently renovation is under process.)


In the afternoon, go on an excursion to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, located about an hour’s drive outside of Kathmandu. In this “City of Devotees”, wander through the winding lanes lined with old homes and temples that date back to the 13th century. Beginning in the city’s Durbar Square, marvel at the intricately carved deities and monsters of the richly molded Golden Gate before entering the Palace of 55 Windows that incorporates exquisite wood carvings into its medieval design. (Bhaktapur is one of the most affected areas of the April 2015 earthquake. Renovation is currently under process.)


Then, see the Lion’s Gate, with its huge guarding lion statues, before continuing to the Nyatpola Temple, a beautiful five-storied, 17th century pagoda. The last stop of the day will lead to the splendorous Bhairab Temple, which is dedicated to the Lord Buddha. Before returning to Kathmandu, take some time to watch the skill of the traditional potters as they work at the Pottery Centre and the Dattratraya Temple.
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Day
13

Kathmandu – Chitwan National Park

Depart Kathmandu, driving approximately 5 hours to Chitwan National Park. After checking into the hotel, enjoy an afternoon of jungle activities. Begin tracking some of the resident wildlife on the back of an elephant for closer viewing or take a leisurely jungle walk with an experienced naturalist to intimately explore the local flora and fauna.

Depart Kathmandu, driving approximately 5 hours to Chitwan National Park. After checking into the hotel, enjoy an afternoon of jungle activities. Begin tracking some of the resident wildlife on the back of an elephant for closer viewing or take a leisurely jungle walk with an experienced naturalist to intimately explore the local flora and fauna.

chitwan-nepal-wildflowers
Day
14

Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park

Awake for a full day of jungle activities. Today cover more ground on a guided 4x4 Landrover safari that will lead further into the park for a chance to track more animals. For something a bit different, choose to take a canoe trip for a different perspective. These peaceful canoe trips usually embark upon the Rapti or Narayani rivers and offer better chances to see many of the water fowl as well as crocodiles and the rarely seen Gangetic dolphin.

Awake for a full day of jungle activities. Today cover more ground on a guided 4x4 Landrover safari that will lead further into the park for a chance to track more animals. For something a bit different, choose to take a canoe trip for a different perspective. These peaceful canoe trips usually embark upon the Rapti or Narayani rivers and offer better chances to see many of the water fowl as well as crocodiles and the rarely seen Gangetic dolphin.

Chitwan-nepal-rhino-with-baby
Day
15

Final day of jungle activities in Chitwan National Park

Awake for a final day of jungle activities. Use today for more wildlife tracking or to try something different, like a cultural walking tour of a local Tharu village. Something of interest here are the traditional stick dance performances put on by the villagers. Moreover, some other must-sees in the park include the Elephant Breeding Program and the Gharial Crocodile Breeding Project.

Awake for a final day of jungle activities. Use today for more wildlife tracking or to try something different, like a cultural walking tour of a local Tharu village. Something of interest here are the traditional stick dance performances put on by the villagers. Moreover, some other must-sees in the park include the Elephant Breeding Program and the Gharial Crocodile Breeding Project.

chitwan-nepal-crocodile
Day
16

International flight home from Kathmandu

Transfer back to Kathmandu for a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.

Transfer back to Kathmandu for a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.

Delhi, India

Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India

Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

Kathmandu, Central Region, Nepal

Chitwan, Central Region, Nepal

Places You'll See

  • Jama-Masjid-India

    Delhi

    Home to India’s largest mosque, the Red Fort, Delhi is abundant in historical artifacts and cultural events. Visit the Baha’i Lotus Temple, a beautiful building in the shape of a lotus bud, or the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art. To get a real taste of area, take a food tour to experience the local cuisine. Or take a peaceful morning walk in the Lodhi Garden.

  • for-agra-India

    Agra

    Visit the famous Taj Mahal, one of the New 7 Wonders of the world, in Agra. Take a guided tour through the immense, white marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife, a true monument of love. While in Agra, also visit the Agra Fort, mainly constructed from sandstone, it’s more of a palace than a defense structure.

  • Amber-Fort-Jaipur-India

    Jaipur

    Nicknames the Pink City, Jaipur is home to several enticing attractions. Visit the Amber Fort, once the royal palace for the Kachwahas, and see the impressive evening light show. Explore the massive City Palace inside the old city. Take a peaceful stroll through one of the many gardens, or purchase some unique souvenirs at the city center bazaar.

  • india-jodhpur-palace

    Jodhpur

    Explore the many palaces, forts, and temples of the sunny and historic city of Jodhpur. The immense Mehrangarh Fort, largest in all of Rajasthan, includes highlights such as the Pearl, Mirror, and Flower Halls. Have a picnic on the shores of Kailana Lake, or visit one of the ancient temples. There are also a number of bazaars selling a range of beautiful textiles.

  • Lake-Palace-Udaipur-India

    Udaipur

    Famous for its lakes, palaces, and romantic backdrops, Udaipur has even been the setting for several movies. Visit the Udaipur City Palace, comprised of small and big palaces, museums, and gardens. Enjoy the peacefulness of the undeveloped Badi Lake or the beautiful Dudh Talai rock and fountain garden.

  • kathmandu-nepal-silhouette

    Kathmandu

    As the largest city and capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is a great place for exciting adventures and amazing sightseeing opportunities. Visit the Monkey Temple, a sacred Buddhist site, or the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, once a royal palace. Or simply roam the streets, mingling with the locals.

  • Chitwan-nepal-rhino-with-baby

    Chitwan

    Tour through the jungle atop a magnificent Asian Elephant at the Chitwan National Park. Take a bicycle ride through the BIshajari Tal Lakes, or visit the Gharial Crocodile Breeding Center. Enjoy swimming in the Rapti River, or watching local preform their native dances.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Delhi : Justa Greater Kailash

Agra : Hotel Amar

Jaipur : Alsisar Haveli

Jodhpur : Ratan Vilas

Udaipur : Rampratap Palace

4 Star Properties

Delhi : The Royal Plaza

Agra : Agra Trident Oberoi

Jaipur : Jaipur Trident Oberoi

Jodhpur : Ajit Bhawan

Udaipur : Trident Udaipur

Kathmandu : Hotel Himalaya

Chitwan : Maruni Safari Lodge

5 Star Properties

Delhi : The Claridges

Agra : ITC Mughal Agra

Jaipur : Jaimahal Palace

Jodhpur : Balsamand Lake Palace

Udaipur : Fateh Prakash Palace

Kathmandu : Hotel Yak & Yeti

Kathmandu : Hotel Dwarika

Chitwan : Machan Wildlife Resort

Luxury Properties

Delhi : The Oberoi

Agra : Amarvilas

Jaipur : Oberoi Rajvilas,

Jaipur : Taj Rambagh Palace

Jaipur : Sujan Rajmahal Palace

Jodhpur : Umaid Bhawan Palace – Palace room

Udaipur : Taj Lake Palace (Luxury Lake View Room)

Udaipur : Oberoi Udaivilas

Chitwan : Tiger Tops Lodge

Testimonials

Joan A.

Traveled April, 2013

As usual, everything went like clockwork

Recently I went to Bhutan with Yampu Tours. With multiple flights and visas, this is not the easiest of tours but, as usual, everything went like clockwork. I say, as usual, because this is the third trip with Yampu and I have nothing but praise for their handling of everything. The professionalism, attention to detail, economical prices, keeps me returning to their services when I want to travel. I highly recommend them.

Traveled To

Debbie and Brittany

Traveled October, 2012

India was amazing

India was amazing. Deb and I had such a wonderful time, and find it difficult to summarize the 10 days adequately in words. Everyone from the representatives, guides, drivers, and locals were helpful, informative, pleasant and kind. The sites and landscape of India were truly moving. I will remember this trip forever and walk away with countless memories. Dhanyavad to you and Yampu for organizing such an incredible tour.

Traveled To

Lucy and John

Traveled April, 2012

India and Sri Lanka were an amazing combination!

India and Sri Lanka were an amazing combination! The hustle of India is exciting, but also overwhelming so including Sri Lanka toward the end of our itinerary was an amazing way to relax and unwind! In India we were blown away by the service at the Deluxe hotels, and even the 4-star hotels. The hospitality in India is incredible with everyone working to make sure you are comfortable and happy. We loved the Oberoi hotels, the rooms were beautiful and the service was immaculate. The sites in India were truly amazing and we loved the elephant safaris and interactions were we were able to bathe and paint these gentle giants! During our long transfers in India our driver was pleasant, providing us with interesting facts but not overwhelming us with too many details or idle chatter. In Sri Lanka we absolutely loved the Temple of the Tooth, the atmosphere is so humbling and spiritual; absolutely a must-see! We loved the ancient site of Polonnaruwa and the lying down Buddha and the elephant orphanage at Pinnawela. We also really enjoyed climbing the Sigiriya rock fortress, although its not the best option for those who are scared of heights!

Traveled To

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