The New and The Old Combine in Southern Asia | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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The New and The Old Combine in Southern Asia

PRIVATE TOUR - 15 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 8177

Private Tour Highlights

  • Check out the perfect lakeside palaces of Udaipur
  • Take an excursion to the medieval city of Bhaktapur
  • Be mesmerized by the countless holy sites along the trip
  • Take a trip to a Bishnoi Village and learn more about the people’s culture
  • See how old and new India have collided in forming modern Delhi
  • Learn about herbal medicine at the National Institute for Traditional Medicine
  • Explore India’s cultural history by seeing historic government buildings
  • Experience the splendor that former Indian royalty lived in
  • See the Mehangarh Fort – home to countless historical art and artifacts
  • See some of the world’s highest peaks in the Paro valley
  • Hike to the renowned Taktsang monastery
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Enjoy a brief extension to Bhutan after your fascinating tour of India’s most famed highlights. This highlight tour includes many visually stunning pieces of architecture from the ancient Mughal Empire. After seeing these masterpieces, including the Taj Mahal and Udaipur’s lake palaces, escape to the kingdom of Bhutan. In this remote region visit the country’s most famous monasteries and dzongs to gain an understanding of the country’s rich culture and tradition.

As the main point of entry for the country, Paro offers an excellent introduction to Bhutan, but also hosts an array of must-see sites for any visitor. Among its impressive collection of sacred buildings are the Rimpung Dzong, Ta Dzibgm Jtucgy Lhakang, and the Drukgyel Dzong, but perhaps the most impressive of all is the famous Taktsang Monastery, or Tiger’s Nest, that is impressively built into a sheer cliff wall. On a clear day, flying into Paro you will be able to see the towering mountains that jut out of its lush valley floor.

As the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu is the country’s center of government, religion and commerce. With an intriguing mixture of tradition and modernity, this city is home to many Buddhist monks, businessmen, politicians, expatriates, civil servants and most importantly the Kings and the Royal Family members. You will be taken to many significant cultural sites including temples, chortens, museums, the National Library, the Painting school and much more.

Inclusions
Price Includes:
One way domestic airfare from Udaipur to New Delhi, round trip regional airfare from New Delhi to Paro, all accommodations with continental or buffet breakfast, service of deluxe air-conditioned vehicle, one time entrance fees at all monuments, 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

* 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 £$ 8177

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.

Street-Cow-New-Delhi-tour-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 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 one of our optional tours (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 elephants 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.
Then drive through the city to the Agra Fort, there will be many 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 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 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. Once arrived, check in and have some time to relax before a sound and light show at the city’s Amber Fort.

Fatehpur-Sikri-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.
Also 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-blue-city-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

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, 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 Gallerey (price not included), which displays a breathtaking collection of crystal items, including tables, sofa sets, dressers, fountains and even beds. 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 – Thimpu

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Paro. In clear weather, the flight into Paro is a befitting introduction to Bhutan, as there are aerial views of the highest mountain peaks in the world that rise out of the lush green Paro Valley. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to Thimphu (55 kms, approx. hours). Spend the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Paro. In clear weather, the flight into Paro is a befitting introduction to Bhutan, as there are aerial views of the highest mountain peaks in the world that rise out of the lush green Paro Valley. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to Thimphu (55 kms, approx. hours). Spend the remainder of the evening at leisure.

takshang-bhutan
Day
11

Tour of Thimpu

Visit several sites around the city today, beginning with the National Memorial Chorten. Erected in 1974 to honor His Late Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this large Tibetan styled chorten (or stupa) exhibits many religious paintings and tantric statues that reflect several aspects of Buddhist Deities.
Carry on to Changangkha Lhakhang, an old fortress styled temple. Also the site of a monastic school, this temple offers excellent views of Thimphu as it is perched on a ridge above the city. From here, a brief trip to the mini zoo (essentially a large fenced in area) is in order, where one can see the Takin – the national animal of Bhutan.
Visit several sites around the city today, beginning with the National Memorial Chorten. Erected in 1974 to honor His Late Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this large Tibetan styled chorten (or stupa) exhibits many religious paintings and tantric statues that reflect several aspects of Buddhist Deities.
Carry on to Changangkha Lhakhang, an old fortress styled temple. Also the site of a monastic school, this temple offers excellent views of Thimphu as it is perched on a ridge above the city. From here, a brief trip to the mini zoo (essentially a large fenced in area) is in order, where one can see the Takin – the national animal of Bhutan.
Then, go to Thimphu’s telecommunication tower, which is situated on a hillside (2865m) offering great photographic scenes of Thimphu Valley. Covered in prayer flags, the complex houses the Bhutan TV studio and although it cannot be photographed, the views of the valley are definitely worth the trip. With the remaining time in the day, enjoy a visit to the Paper Factory, where traditional Bhutanese paper is produced from the Daphne plant.
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Day
12

Tour of the National Library & Zorig Chusum

Today, begin with a visit to the National Library, which was founded in 1967 and preserves many ancient Dzongkha and Tibetan texts. On the upper floor, one can see traditional Tibetan styled books that are written on long strips of handmade paper, stacked between pieces of wood and wrapped in silken cloth. Several wooden blocks that are used for printing books and prayer flags as well as a collection of more contemporary books can also be seen.
Next, visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Thimpu’s popular painting school that offers a six year course with teachings of traditional Bhutanese arts. Beginning with drawing, the students follow a curriculum that progresses to painting, woodcarving, embroidery and statue making.
Also on the list for the day is the National Institute for Traditional Medicine, which is an impressively large lab that dispenses herbal and other medicines. Follow this with a leisurely visit to the National Textile Museum to learn about the national art of weaving. The Folk Heritage Museum is also worth a visit, as it is a unique three story mud and timber building that acts as a living museum to give visitors insight into the ancient Bhutanese lifestyles.
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Day
13

Thimpu – Paro

Morning read more...

Morning transfer back to Paro. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Ta Dzong – a uniquely round building that is said to be built in the shape of a conch shell. Within its interior is the National Museum of the Kingdom, which displays a remarkable collection of Thangkhas, an extensive philatelic collection, ancient bronze and stone objects, statues as well as a variety of ancient weapons and shields.
Also visit the Paro Dzong also referred to as the Rimpung Dzong. Constructed in 1644, today it encompasses a Monastic school and several government offices, including that of the local governor. Afterwards, enjoy a short walk down the nearby hill, where a traditional cantilever bridge over the beautifully flowing Paro River will be crossed.
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Day
14

Tour of Paro’s Monasteries

In the morning hike to the renowned Taktsang Monastery (3100m), which literally translates to Tiger’s Nest. Built in the 1600s, this monastery impressively clings to a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters to the valley floor. According to ancient legend, the Buddhist Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on the back of a tigress to subdue the eight evil spirits that were preventing to spread of Buddhism into the area. Tragically, the original monastery was destroyed by a fire in 1998, however it has been recently built in its original form. After an hour and a half walk up the hill, enjoy lunch at this magnificent spot.
After lunch walk back to the base to embark on a short drive north to the Drukgyel Dzong, which was built in 1649 to commemorate Bhutan’s many victories over the Tibetan invaders. Sadly, this Dzong also fell victim to an accidental fire, yet its ancient ruins remain. However, on a clear day, the amazing 7314m (24,000 ft) sacred Mount Jomolhari can be clearly seen.
Lastly, visit one of the two oldest lhakhangs (or monasteries) in the county, the Kyichu Lhakhang. This building was constructed in the year 659 CE by the Tibetan King Songsten Gyampo. One of the 108 temples built by this king, it is said to hold down the left foot of an ancient demoness.
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Taktsang-Monastery
Day
15

International flight home

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

Transfer to the airport for a connection to New Delhi and 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

Paro, Bhutan

Thimphu, Bhutan

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.

  • paro-valley-bhutan

    Paro

    Visit the many historical sites scattered throughout the small, yet exquisite town of Paro. Hike up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, precariously perched on the edge of a cliff, or see the display of Bhutan’s historical artifacts at the National Museum of Bhutan. Walk along the streets lined with traditional architecture and beautifully decorated buildings housing shops and restaurants.

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

Paro : Olathang Hotel

Thimphu : Hotel Druk

Thimphu : Hotel Galingkha

Thimphu : Phuntsho Pelri

5 Star Properties

Delhi : The Claridges

Agra : ITC Mughal Agra

Jaipur : Jaimahal Palace

Jodhpur : Balsamand Lake Palace

Udaipur : Fateh Prakash Palace

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

Paro : Amankora Paro

Thimphu : Amankora Thimphu

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

Don

Traveled December, 2012

Everything was great and I have no complaints

Everything was great and I have no complaints. I’ve been the Delhi before but never Varanasi. Truly the toilet bowl of the world. Dirtier than my own mouth, if you can believe it. However, at the same time it was an amazing experience.

Traveled To

Karen Z

Traveled February, 2013

I had an absolutely wonderful trip!

I had an absolutely wonderful trip! Thank you so much for all of your help and planning. The packet of information that you sent me was extremely helpful and gave me some great tips for the area I was visiting. My flights were perfect- thank you for the window seats and the brief layovers! My guide, Tika, was waiting for me at the airport when I arrived and she got me settled in my hotel and briefed me about our plan for the next day. The hotel was amazing too, it was very comfortable and relaxing. The itinerary that was set for my trek was detailed and accurate. The tea houses that we stayed at were nice, and everyone was very friendly. My guide was always attentive and made sure that I was taken care of, and that we were prepared for each day. We had a lot of interaction with other guides and trekkers along the way, which made this trip even better. All who involved with my trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar, did an amazing job. I always felt safe and taken care of, and that everything was going according to plan. And when our flight to Lukla was delayed that first day due to weather, arrangements were immediately made for me for another night at the hotel. I am so glad that Yampu Tours helped planned my trip. I had a wonderful time, and would love to use your travel assistance again in the future.

Traveled To

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