Experience South Asia’s History and Tea Country | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Experience South Asia’s History and Tea Country

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PRIVATE TOUR - 16 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 7460

Private Tour Highlights

  • Bask in the glory of the former Mughal Empire
  • Visit Kandy, recognized as a World Heritage City
  • Check out the highly sacred Temple of the Tooth
  • Visit the tree said to descend from the “Tree of Enlightenment”
  • See India’s Arc de Triomphe: The India Gate
  • Have a photo op at the iconic Taj Mahal
  • Take in all of India’s spectacular architecture
  • Smell the aromas of Kandy’s famous spice plantations
  • Visit a tea plantation while en route to Nuwara Eliya
  • See how the British have made a lasting influence on Sri Lanka
  • Embark on an open-top jeep safari through Singharaja Rainforest
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

After experiencing Jodhpur’s gigantic Mehrangarh Fortress, the flawless Taj Mahal, New Delhi’s historic district and additional samplings of Northern India’s world class attractions; experience Sri Lanka to complete your vacation. With its unique Kandyan culture, lush topography of the tea country and a pristinely preserved rainforest, this island nation is sure to impress.

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 here you will embark on a journey inland to Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage City and the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. 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.

Nuwara Eliya will offer a drastic change of scenery, as it is composed of mountainous highlands, lush tea plantations and a cooler climate. This hill station has an unmistakable colonial air to it. The Sinharaja Rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is special for being the least disturbed and most biologically unique lowland rainforest remaining in Sri Lanka. It is a treasure trove of endemic species including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and 95% of Sri Lanka’s endemic birds.

Inclusions
Price Includes:
One way regional flight 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 £$ 7460

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 some good images 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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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.

india-fatehpur-sikri
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 Palace), 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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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, 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. 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 – New Delhi – 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.

buddha-colombo-srilanka
Day
11

Colombo – 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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Botanical-Garden
Day
12

Kandy – Nuwara Eliya

This morning be met at the hotel to transfer to Nuwara Eliya. Misty steep roads, twisting through flourishing tea bushes in a cool climate, remind visitors that they are within the range of the renowned British colonial retreat, Nuwara Eliya. A pleasant evening to enjoy the amicable surrounding, may be a walk through the uncharted lanes filled with ancient architecture. Augmented by an English countryside atmosphere, the city of light - once governed by English & Scottish planters - is still studded with colonial bungalows, hedgerows & one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the world. A hike through the green grass and red-brick walls should present breathtaking views of a buzzing countryside hamlet. Drive through green valleys of the hill country pierced by endless waterfalls & dotted by tea pluckers draped in bright-colored saris. Or rent a bike for a gentle ride along the banks splashed by the waters of Lake Gregory or enjoy a quiescent boat ride in this cool climate. Overnight stay at a selected Hotel in Nuwara Eliya ...read less

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Day
13

Nuwara Eliya - Sinharaja

Drive to Sinharaja Through the Gem City. Gem mines and swift hands mining & sorting the precious stones straight from the earth is nothing, but a common sight in Ratnapura. Watch how the stones are cut & polished into perfection through experienced hands which have sailed Sri Lanka in the best seas of treasure over centuries. With an average annual rainfall between 3000-6000 mm Sinharaja proves to be one of the finest examples of tropic rain forests in the world. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site & biosphere reserve Sinharaja, treasures an absolute variation of both flora & fauna with most of them being endemic. Walk in through either entrance - Kudawa Pitadeniya or Morning Side - for a refreshing treat covering fauna varieties extending from spotted deer, hog deer, golden palm cave, stripe necked mongoose as well as butterflies & reptiles sheltered by the striking evergreen vegetation. Even though there haven't been elephant sightings in the recent past, constant leopard trails prove that the 'King of Games' still haunts this tropical stage Overnight stay at a selected lodge in Sinharaja ...read less

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Day
14

Jungle safari in the Sinharaja Rainforest

Leave no stone unturned on this last major undisturbed area of rainforest. On most days the forest is shrouded by copious rainclouds that replenish its deep soils and balance water for much of southwestern Sri Lanka. The largest carnivore here is the leopard. Its presence can usually be gauged only by droppings and tracks, and its seldom see. Medicinal plants are collected during specific seasons. Moist and muggy, murky and mysterious, an experience of Sinharaja is like nothing else in Sri Lanka. Trekking through this magnificent jungle a treat. Encounter with this bewildering land of exotic colors and melodious sounds is truly and enriching experience. ...read less

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Day
15

Sinharaja Rainforest – Colombo

The day following to the Sinharaja expedition, arrive to Colombo while experiencing the azure coastal boarder. Upon arriving to Colombo, promenade through the streets to experience the luxury architecture. Enjoy the sunset at Galle Face Green in the south of Fort. Spend the evening at leisure. Overnight stay at a selected Hotel in Colombo

The day following to the Sinharaja expedition, arrive to Colombo while experiencing the azure coastal boarder. Upon arriving to Colombo, promenade through the streets to experience the luxury architecture. Enjoy the sunset at Galle Face Green in the south of Fort. Spend the evening at leisure. Overnight stay at a selected Hotel in Colombo

skyscrapers-colombo-sri-lanka
Day
16

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

Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka

Nuwara Eliya, Central Province, Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Ratnapura, Sabaragamuwa 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.

  • 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.

  • Nuwara-sri-lanka

    Nuwara Eliya

    Thanks to its colonial architecture, Nuwara Eliya has earned the nickname of “Little England”. Take a tour of the Pedro Tea Factory and wander through the plantation’s paths. Visit the Hindu Seetha Temple near the Haggala Botanical Gardens, or take a walk to the top of Single Tree Mountain for spectacular views of the city.

  • Langur-srilanka

    Sinharaja

    Saved from commercial logging by its inaccessibility, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is one of the last major undisturbed areas of rainforest in Sri Lanka. Low hanging rainclouds balance the water resources and replenish the reserve’s deep soil. Take a guided tour through trails and try to spot the wildlife hiding among the vegetation.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Delhi : Justa Greater Kailash

Agra : Hotel Amar

Jaipur : Alsisar Haveli

Jodhpur : Ratan Vilas

Udaipur : Rampratap Palace

Colombo : Grand Oriental

Kandy : Suisse Hotel

Nuwara : Galway Forest

Sinharaja : Rainforest Edge

4 Star Properties

Delhi : The Royal Plaza

Agra : Agra Trident Oberoi

Jaipur : Jaipur Trident Oberoi

Jodhpur : Ajit Bhawan

Udaipur : Trident Udaipur

Colombo : Ramada Colombo

Kandy : Amaya Hills

Nuwara : Jetwing St. Andrew’s

Sinharaja : Boulder Garden

5 Star Properties

Delhi : The Claridges

Agra : ITC Mughal Agra

Jaipur : Jaimahal Palace

Jodhpur : Balsamand Lake Palace

Udaipur : Fateh Prakash Palace

Colombo : Cinnamon Grand

Kandy : Earl’s Regency

Nuwara : Heritance Tea Factory Hotel

Sinharaja : Boulder Garden (Hornfels Room)

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

Kandy : Kandy House

Nuwara : Ceylon Tea Trails

Sinharaja : Boulder Garden (Basalt Room)

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

Joan

Traveled August, 2012

Had a wonderful time in Sri Lanka

Had a wonderful time in Sri Lanka and no small amount was due to my driver/guide Lankesh Peiris. He was knowledgeable, fluent in English and attentive to my needs and safety. His stellar driving skills were a marvel and so necessary in the Asian traffic dance! The cultural and wildlife experiences exceeded my expectations and perhaps most important was the hospitable, kind and gentle nature of the Sri Lankan people. As always Yampu has provided a first rate travel experience. Thanks!

Traveled To

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

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