India's Mountain Kingdoms & Coastline | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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India’s Mountain Kingdoms & Coastline

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TOUR - 17 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 5069

Tour Highlights

  • Experience Old Delhi on the back of a cycle rickshaw
  • Take a tour through the world famous Taj Mahal
  • Stroll through the regal chambers of the Agra Fort, once home to powerful emperors
  • Tour the magnificent rooms and chambers of the Amber Fort
  • Take a trip up to Tiger Hill, the highest point in Darjeeling
  • See the world’s largest collection of Buddhist books and manuscripts
  • Explore the turrets and intricate latticework of the Gateway of India
  • Sample some local meat and produce while strolling through Crawford Market
  • See the impressive mixture of Gothic and Moorish styles at the Prince of Wales Museum
  • Visit the final resting place of the celebrated St. Francis Xavier at Basilica de Bom Jesus
  • Take a walk through the aromatic fields of Goa’s fragrant spice plantations
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

This tour provides a comprehensive look at India; starting with a classic tour of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur before heading east for a taste of the country’s mountain kingdoms in Darjeeling and Gangtok. Leaving the mountains, travel south to Mumbai before spending a few final days on the southern beaches of Goa to unwind.

Nestled in the eastern corner of India between Nepal and Bhutan, visit the remote cities of Darjeeling and Gangtok to see their majestic landscapes and experience everyday life in the Eastern Himalayas. A visit to the aesthetic colonial hill station of Darjeeling and the striking views of Sikkim is sure to open your eyes to a different piece of India. Savor the nostalgia of its colonial remnants set amongst lush tea plantations, flower filled gardens and red roofed bungalows.

A transfer to Mumbai will bring you back into bustling Indian city life, punctuated with visits to Elephanta Caves and the Gateway to India. Finally, for the last portion of your trip you will find yourself in Goa, a land with sweeping palm-fringed coastlines, jungle covered hills, lush rice paddies, spice plantations, historic churches and a bohemian atmosphere. This old Portuguese colony boasts good food, good wine, and world-class beaches that make for a perfect way to unwind from your travels.

Inclusions
Price Includes:
One way domestic airfare from New Delhi to Bagdogra and Bagdogra to Mumbai, Round trip domestic airfare from Mumbai to Goa, All accommodations with continental breakfasts, Service of deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, One time entrance fees at all monuments, 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

* The Elephanta Caves and Prince of Wales museum in Mumbai remain closed on Mondays

* You should exercise caution if you intend to swim in open waters along the Indian coastline, particularly during the monsoon season. Every year, several people in Goa and other areas drown due to strong undertows. It is important to heed warnings posted or advised at beaches and to avoid swimming in the ocean during the monsoon season. Trained lifeguards are very rare along beaches.

* 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
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JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

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Package Price: From £$ 5069

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.

Day
3

Tour of New Delhi

Begin with a 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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red-fort-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, take a photo op 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 Mohabbat The Taj, a live show with a touch of Bollywood comes highly recommended. 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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taj-mahal-Agra-tour-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.

Fatehpur-Sikri-India-tour
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 – New Delhi

After a free morning in Jaipur, return transfer to New Delhi. After check in at the hotel, enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

After a free morning in Jaipur, return transfer to New Delhi. After check in at the hotel, enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Delhi-India-Gate
Day
8

New Delhi - Darjeeling

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Bagdogra airport. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Darjeeling (90 kilometers, 3-4 hours). Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Bagdogra airport. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Darjeeling (90 kilometers, 3-4 hours). Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day
9

Monasteries of Darjeeling

Early morning excursion to Tiger Hill, the highest point in Darjeeling at 2500 meters (8202 feet). This hilltop offers breathtaking views over Mt. Kanchenhunga and the towering peaks of the eastern Himalayas, including Mount Everest. Awaking at 4 a.m. is sure to provide a rewarding experience as the sun rises over these wondrous mountains.
Later in the morning, visit the Ghoom Monastery (8 kilometers from Darjeeling). Built in 1875, the Ghoom Monastery is the largest and most famous in the region. Many Buddhist texts are found here including the Kangyur and 109 volumes of the Buddhist Tibetan gospel. Spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.
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Day
10

Darjeeling - Gangtok

Drive from Darjeeling to Gangtok (95 kilometers, 3-4 hours). En route, visit the Rumtek Monastery, the seat of his holiness, the XVI Gyawla Karmapa, the head of the Karma Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism. Situated near Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, the Rumtek Monastery is world renowned, but even more so among Tibetan Buddhists. After the Chinese occupation of Tibet, the monastery gained prominence on the Buddhist pilgrimage map, as well as subsequent other relocations of Tibetan religious gurus to Sikkim. Afterwards, spend the afternoon at leisure. ...read less

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Day
11

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Enjoy a morning visit to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. Founded in 1959, this institution was established for research of Mahayana Buddhism and Tibetan culture. This traditionally styled Tibetan building houses the world’s largest collection of Buddhist books and manuscripts, as well as statuettes, thangkas (Tibetan cloth paintings), and many sacred objects, such as human thighbone trumpets. After the visit, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Enjoy a morning visit to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. Founded in 1959, this institution was established for research of Mahayana Buddhism and Tibetan culture. This traditionally styled Tibetan building houses the world’s largest collection of Buddhist books and manuscripts, as well as statuettes, thangkas (Tibetan cloth paintings), and many sacred objects, such as human thighbone trumpets. After the visit, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

buddhist-monk-namangyal-institute-india
Day
12

Gangtok - Mumbai

Early morning drive to the Bagdogra airport (125 kilometers, 4-5 hours) for a flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Spend the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Early morning drive to the Bagdogra airport (125 kilometers, 4-5 hours) for a flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Spend the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Mumbai-Gateway-to-India
Day
13

Tour of Mumbai

Transfer read more...

Transfer to the jetty at the Gateway of India to board a boat to Elephanta Island to see the shrine cut from the hillside. This ancient stone temple is decorated with intricate sculptures of Hindu Gods. Perhaps the most glorious of them all is the Hindu Trinity, which depicts three aspects of Shiva the Creator, Preserver and the Destroyer.
Upon returning to the city, be free to explore and observe the Gateway of India. With four turrets and intricate latticework, the archway was constructed out of yellow basalt stone for the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911, the first visit of any British Monarchs. Near the arch, find steps down to the water, where small motor launches offering short cruises of the harbor can be found (price not included).
Moving to the old British part of town, stroll through the Crawford Market and sample some of the local fruit, vegetable, and meat stands. Completed in 1869, this covered market is elegantly designed with an impressive clock tower and steeple that stands above the surrounding skyline.
Also on deck for today is a visit to the Prince of Wales Museum, an odd looking building built with a mixture of Gothic and Moorish styles. With an array of ancient Indus Valley artifacts dating to 2000 BC, also find priceless pieces of Tibetan and Nepali art, Buddhist scrolls and Tibetan bronzes. However, the most notable attraction here is the collection of over 2000 miniature paintings from India’s various art schools.
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shiva-elephanta-island-india
Day
14

Mumbai - Goa

Transfer to the airport for a flight home to Goa. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps with a stroll on the beach or a few drinks as the sun sets over the ocean.

Transfer to the airport for a flight home to Goa. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps with a stroll on the beach or a few drinks as the sun sets over the ocean.

waterfall-goa-India
Day
15

Tour of Goa

Morning read more...

Morning sightseeing tour of the historic part of Goa, which will stop at the Basilica de Bom Jesus and the Grand Se Cathedral. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the basilica is the final resting place of the celebrated St. Francis Xavier, one of Goa’s patron saints. Today, the basilica remains as one of India’s best examples of baroque architecture. Next visit the Se Cathedral, the largest in all of Asia at 76 meters (250 ft) in length and 55 meters (180 ft) in width.


In the afternoon, tour one of Goa’s fragrant spice plantations. The dense forested landscape of Goa and its favorable climate make for a perfect environment to grow spices. Walking through the aromatic fields, smell and see vanilla beans, pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, chilies, nutmeg, turmeric, ginger and a variety of fruits. Afterwards, return to the hotel for the night.
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church-goa-india
Day
16

Day at leisure in Goa

Spend the day at leisure and enjoy the fine beaches of Goa. There are plenty of opportunities to partake in some water sports, take a yoga class, visit a local museum or go bird watching (not included).

Spend the day at leisure and enjoy the fine beaches of Goa. There are plenty of opportunities to partake in some water sports, take a yoga class, visit a local museum or go bird watching (not included).

beach-goa-india
Day
17

Goa - Mumbai

Depending on departure time, spend the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for a connection to Mumbai and flight home or to continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.


Note: Check out of the hotel is at 12 pm. Late check out may be available directly at the hotel subject to availability. Regardless, store luggage at the hotel until departure for the airport.

Depending on departure time, spend the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for a connection to Mumbai and flight home or to continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.


Note: Check out of the hotel is at 12 pm. Late check out may be available directly at the hotel subject to availability. Regardless, store luggage at the hotel until departure for the airport.

Delhi, India

Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Darjeeling, West Bengal, India

Gangtok, Sikkim, India

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Goa, India

Places You'll See

  • Sunset-Goa-India

    Goa

    Famous for its gorgeous beaches and several ancient temples, Goa is rich with history and culture. Visit the many museums, such as the Christian Art Museum or the Naval Aviation Museum to see vintage aircrafts. Buy handmade trinkets at the Anjuna Flea Market or browse their many libraries. Go diving or kitesurfing on the beautiful waters, or just relax on the sand.

  • Mumbai-sunset-India

    Mumbai

    There is much to see in the city of Mumbai, from the modern presence of Bollywood, to the colonial buildings showcasing examples of the Gothic revival. Immerse yourself in the hustle of the crowds at the street markets and vendors, or take a peaceful stroll along Juhu Beach. Enjoy the city’s vibrant theater scene and catch a performance at the Prithvi Theater.

  • gangtok-india

    Gangtok

    Nestled in the eastern Himalayan range, Gangtok is a popular headquarters for those heading out on treks throughout the region. Once referred to as the Switzerland of the East, Gangtok provides fantastic mountain views with a quaint and clean ambiance.

  • Mount-Kanchenjunga-Darjeeling-India

    Darjeeling

    The small city of Darjeeling is a perfect place to visit for the outdoor enthusiasts. See the monks at the Japanese Peace Pagoda, or take an early morning hike to the top of Tiger Hill for beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy Darjeeling’s world famous teas while shopping at the Rink Mall.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Delhi : Justa Greater Kailash

Agra : Hotel Amar

Jaipur : Alsisar Haveli

Darjeeling : Dekeling Hotel

Gangtok : Ttakshang Residency

Mumbai : Gordon House

Goa : Phoenix Park Inn

4 Star Properties

Delhi : The Royal Plaza

Agra : Agra Trident Oberoi

Jaipur : Jaipur Trident Oberoi

Darjeeling : Viceroy

Gangtok : Suhim Portico

Mumbai : Trident Nariman Point

Goa : Fortune Select Regina

5 Star Properties

Delhi : The Claridges

Agra : ITC Mughal Agra

Jaipur : Jaimahal Palace

Darjeeling : May Fair

Darjeeling : New Elgin

Gangtok : Elgin Nor-Khill

Mumbai : The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower

Goa : Taj Exotica Goa

Luxury Properties

Delhi : The Oberoi

Agra : Amarvilas

Jaipur : Oberoi Rajvilas,

Jaipur : Taj Rambagh Palace

Jaipur : Sujan Rajmahal Palace

Darjeeling : Windamere

Darjeeling : Glenburn Tea Estates

Gangtok : Mayfair Spa and Casino

Mumbai : Oberoi Mumbai

Goa : The Leela

Testimonials

Brian T.

Traveled June, 2013

Would highly recommend your services to friends & family

Local Guides – All three guides were superb. Very knowledgeable, respectful, communicative, personable and great with kids & family. Transportation – Both very good, cautious drivers always made us feel comfortable (and safe). Both patient and punctual.Hotels – All Taj hotels were top notch & would highly recommend. Marari was unique & fun but would not recommend for those who prefer luxurious accommodation; we really enjoyed the natural environment however. Houseboat was also great! Restaurants – All Taj hotels had excellent food. To avoid illness would stick to hotel food in the future. How would you rate your whole trip? Excellent for education. Great overall experience. Was very happy with Yampu itinerary and ease of everything. General Comments – Would highly recommend your services to friends & family.

Traveled To

Jim

Traveled November, 2016

Trip has been great!

Trip has been great!

Traveled To

Barbara

Traveled December, 2014

The trip was fantastic

From a travel agent: They were thrilled with the trip, so thank you very much for taking such good care of them. From the client: The trip was fantastic. The one comment which we all repeated over and over was how well it was planned and that everything was perfection.

Traveled To


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