Exploring the History of India and Sri Lanka | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Exploring the History of India and Sri Lanka

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PRIVATE TOUR - 15 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 6180

Private Tour Highlights

  • Journey past countless holy sites and historical buildings
  • Take in the splendid architecture of Agra
  • Check out Buddha’s “Tree of Enlightenment” in its final form
  • Explore the streets of Delhi on a rickshaw
  • See India’s most iconic pieces of architecture
  • Stop at the iconic Taj Mahal for a photo op
  • Experience the Spice Plantations of Kandy
  • See endemic plant species – such as the Indian Rubber Tree
  • See the Royal Botanical Center, showcasing some of the finest gardens of its kind in Asia
  • Visit the famous Asiatic Elephant Orphanage
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

A tour through Northern India will guide you through the capital city of New Delhi to the splendid architecture of Agra; home of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. From there wind your way through various destinations throughout Rajasthan including Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur. Visiting these cities you can expect to see some of the finest preserved architectural splendors in all of India. Finish your survey enjoying a journey through Sri Lanka, introducing you to the island nation’s ancient history and rich cultural legacy.

When flying to Sri Lanka you will arrive for a night in Colombo, the country’s capital where visitors can find an eclectic mixture of ancient, colonial and modern influences among the city’s ancestral mansions and ritzy high rises. From there you’ll head north to Anuradhapur. Home to an ancient tree said to be established from a cutting of the Buddha’s “tree of enlightenment”, Anuradhapura flourished for 1,300 years as a religious and political capital of Ceylon before being abandoned and lost in the dense jungles for many years before being made accessible again. After centuries of attempted invasions, the city stands as a testament to its resilience to outside influences. Its unique architecture showcases incredible monuments, especially the massive Dagobas, which are typical of Sinhalese stupas.

Kandy is a World Heritage City reflecting its cultural and historic importance. It was the last part of Sri Lanka to fall to the British (1815) and to this day there are specific Kandyan customs of dress, dance and drumming. The centerpiece of the town is the highly sacred Temple of the Tooth, which claims to contain one of the Buddha’s teeth which is annually paraded round the town in a gold casket on the back of one of hundreds of caparisoned elephants in the Esala Perahera Festival. The temple faces onto a large man-made lake. This setting, surrounded by mountains, gives Kandy an air of relaxation not found in other large towns on the island.

Inclusions
Price Includes:
One way regional airfare from Udaipur to Colombo via New Delhi, all accommodations with continental or buffet breakfast, service of chauffeured air-conditioned vehicle, one time entrance fees at all monuments, all specified tours and 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

* 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 £$ 6180

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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Street-Cow-New-Delhi-tour-india
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, experience the local scene and bazaars and the everyday buzz of India. Once at the Agra Fort, stroll through its regal chambers that were once called 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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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. Once arrived, check in and have some time 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. Once arrived, check in and have some time before a sound and light show at the city’s Amber Fort.

Jaipur-Hawa-Mahal-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, 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, lies 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, lies 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

Visit to 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, there will be time to peruse through the open air markets that sprawl behind the City Palace.

Note: Yampu recommends a tour of the Crystal Gallery (price not included), which displays a breathtaking collection of crystal items, including tables, sofa sets, dressers, fountains and even beds comes highly recommended. Horseback 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 – Colombo

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Colombo, via New Delhi. Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel (35 kms, 1 hour). Remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Colombo, via New Delhi. Upon arrival and airport reception, transfer to the hotel (35 kms, 1 hour). Remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

colombo-harbor-sri-lanka
Day
11

Tour of Anuradhapura

This morning, be met at the hotel to transfer to the city of Anuradhapura. Commanding a rich Sri Lankan heritage, Anuradhapura is one of the greatest and oldest civilization in the world starring 113 kings and spanning over 1300 years in its peak, vows of being the greatest city of ancient Sri Lanka following its reign as the first capital. The sapphire of its crown is certainly the Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred BO sapling extracted from the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Standing more than 220 years in its pride. Stroll through the sacred trails of the venerated city to adore the legacy that interweaves Ruwanweliseya. The heritage, Supremacy and culture arguably makes Anuradhapura the strongest kingdom of Sri Lanka. ...read less

Day
12

Colombo – Sigriya

This morning, be met at the hotel too transfer to Sigiriya. The 5th century rock citadel of King Kasyapa and World Heritage Site - Sigiriya - doesn't only boasts of ancient Sri Lankan engineering & urban planning supremacy but also acclaims to one of the finest monuments of art & culture. Step through the gigantic 'Lion Paws' overlooking the symmetrical royal gardens below - to comprehend the absolute splendor that once dominated this rock fortress. Surrounded by ramparts & moats the Lion Rock resembles the mythological 'City of Gods' - coated by frescoes that relate to Gupta style paintings found in Ajanta caves of India. Walk in the shade of an eminent 'mirror wall' embracing the Western face of Sigiriya representing an artistic hundred meters laminated with graffiti. Wander into the well-fabricated museum downstairs for an epic journey of yesteryears to realize how the citadel floated above citizens with the castle, ponds and irrigation systems that pumped water right onto its summit with an ingenious hydraulic system describing a colossal masterpiece of the great king which remained a wonder in Asia for centuries. ...read less

sigiriya-rock-srilanka
Day
13

Sigriya – Kandy

After breakfast at the hotel, head a short distance out of town to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden. First developed as a pleasure garden under royalty and later harmonized by the British, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya - today bundled with the most welcoming facilities located just 4 miles off Kandy - is a flourishing national asset in the Wonder of Asia. Walk into this 147 acre bliss of an experience, passing well-tended lawns, pavilions & an octagon conservatory to be greeted by the vast expanse of a magnificently landscaped lush green turf which will encourage an exhilarating break.

Next, transfer from Matale to Kandy, a monumental city that holds a special place in the hearts of Sri Lankans and yours after your visit. This beautiful lakeside city cradled among the misty hills was the last capital of the native kings before the British conquered the whole island. It is also where the sacred tooth relic of Buddha is stored in a magnificent temple complex. A stroll across this small town will feature the Kandy City Centre - complete with modern and world class brands - a bazaar, an arts and crafts center, and a gem museum and lapidary. Walk through color and glide through fresh fruits and vegetables in the Kandy market. Fine tune this evening by stepping to the beat of traditional music and drumming amplified by a cultural show enhancing the rich and vibrant culture of the Wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka.
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Day
14

Kandy – Colombo

Drive to Colombo and don't forget to stop at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to observe how these gentle giants move with the visitors freely causing absolutely no harm. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (PEO), just as the name suggests, holds a unique disposition in the ex-situ animal care. It's success and fame has travelled not just within the country but throughout the world to an extent where Pinnawala synonymous with the Sri Lankan Elephant. Currently being a home to 93 elephants the concept was actualized by the late Hon. Minister Kalugalle on the 16th of February 1975. Pinnawala at the time was a very remote area with lush coconut plantations and most importantly an area where the availability of mahouts was not lacking. The immense amount of water required by the elephants is supplemented with the availability of "Ma oya" running close by. Transfer to the throbbing metropolis, Colombo - located in the West - is not only the country's commercial capital, but also the turbine that impels above 50% of the national GDP flanking Colombo's fancy urban development effort. Drive along the clean streets edging the crystal white Race Course - horse racing hub in 1893 & World War II airstrip - furnished today with lavish clothing, food & tea boutiques. Meanwhile, ride to Pettah & tune into the Floating Market - an offbeat shopping experience - or feel the buzz surrounding the upcoming inspiration, the Colombo Port City - an offshore city - featuring parks, commercial complexes & even an F1 track. Proceed along Bauddhaloka Mawatha towards 'Arcade' facing a historic way post, the Independence Square. ...read less

Pinnawela-Elephant-Orphanage-Sri-Lanka
Day
15

International flight home

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

Transfer to the airport 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

Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka

Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka

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.

  • skyscrapers-colombo-sri-lanka

    Colombo

    The vibrant city of Colombo is a common gateway to Sri Lanka, but is also a wonderful place to stay. Visit one of the museums or galleries such as The Lionel Wendt Memorial Art Centre. For breathtaking sunset views, visit the Galle Face Green Promenade. Spend some time the Turtle Conservation Villa to learn the importance of protecting endangered turtles.

  • anuradhapura-srilanka

    Anuradhapura

    See some of the greatest and well preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lanka civilization in the city of Anuradhapura. See a cutting from the original Bodhi tree which Buddha sat underneath at the Bodhi Tree Temple. Visit the Archeology Museum or the Citadel. Purchase trinkets from the shops and market, or see the rock carvings at Isurumuniya Vihara.

  • temple-kandy-sri-lanka

    Kandy

    Experience Sri Lanka’s culture and cuisine in the beautiful city of Kandy. Visit one of Sri Lanka’s most holy shrines, the Temple of the Tooth, home to a tooth relic of the Lord Buddha. Take a walk through downtown and purchase local treats from the numerous bakeries. See elephants roam freely at the Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Delhi : Justa Greater Kailash

Agra : Hotel Amar

Jaipur : Alsisar Haveli

Jodhpur : Ratan Vilas

Udaipur : Rampratap Palace

Colombo : Grand Oriental

Anuradhapura : Heritage Hotel

Kandy : Suisse Hotel

4 Star Properties

Delhi : The Royal Plaza

Agra : Agra Trident Oberoi

Jaipur : Jaipur Trident Oberoi

Jodhpur : Ajit Bhawan

Udaipur : Trident Udaipur

Colombo : Ramada Colombo

Anuradhapura : Palm Garden Village

Kandy : Amaya Hills

5 Star Properties

Delhi : The Claridges

Agra : ITC Mughal Agra

Jaipur : Jaimahal Palace

Jodhpur : Balsamand Lake Palace

Udaipur : Fateh Prakash Palace

Colombo : Cinnamon Grand

Anuradhapura : Ulagalla Resort

Kandy : Earl’s Regency

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

Colombo : Casa Colombo

Anuradhapura : Ulagalla Resort (Nikawewa Villa)

Kandy : Kandy House

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

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

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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