Combine the incredible sites of India's Golden Triangle with Sri Lanka's ancient ruins, verdant jungles, cool mountains and amazing wildlife. Explore the legendary Taj Mahal and pink city of Jaipur, Dambulla's rock temple, sip pure Ceylon tea and discover the bustling city of Colombo.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Delhi
Saturday. Namaste! Welcome to Delhi. On arrival at the airport you’ll be transferred to our hotel to spend the rest of today at leisure. This evening meet the guide and rest of the group at the hotel lobby at 18:00 for a welcome meeting.
For those able to arrive very early today or the day prior, why not get off the beaten track and explore Old Delhi with us on our optional 'Backstreets of Delhi' add-on tour. You will get to relish the taste of various street foods, from savoury to sweet. Along the way, visit Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in India and the colourful Bazar Matia Mahal, located opposite the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque. The tour will combine a mixture of metro, electric rickshaw and walking to get around.
Overnight: Delhi
Old and New Delhi sightseeing
Delhi - Agra. This morning we enjoy a packed day of sightseeing in Old and New Delhi. Check out the UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid - India’s oldest and largest mosque. Visit the iconic Sikh temple Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and its community kitchen feeding 25,000-30,000 people daily. We also enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar and explore New Delhi. Walk down the Rajpath, formerly known as the ‘King’s Way’ and see the famous India Gate monument.
This afternoon, we will drive to Agra. After checking into the hotel, enjoy a group Namaste dinner for departures in 2024. Please note there is no dinner included for departures in 2025.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast
The Taj Mahal
This morning, we'll visit the legendary Taj Mahal, India's most renowned monument. Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a tribute to his beloved wife, this iconic white marble mausoleum is an unparalleled symbol of love and devotion, standing as one of the most extraordinary architectural masterpieces in the world. Be sure to capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience with plenty of photos!
Following our visit to the Taj Mahal, we’ll journey to the impressive Agra Fort. This massive red sandstone fortress houses some of India's most exquisite Mughal buildings, all safeguarded behind its towering fortified walls. It’s a site rich with history and grandeur, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Mughal era.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast
Karauli or Dholpur
Agra - Karauli/Dholpur. This morning we journey to either Karauli or Dholpur stopping for lunch en route.
In Karauli, we will stay in the beautiful Palace Bhanwar Vilas. An eclectic melding of both Oriental and Art Deco architecture, the heritage-listed hotel was built in 1938 as a family home of the Maharaja of Jaipur. In Dholpur, we will stay at the magnificent Raj Niwas Palace, which is known for its red sandstone, traditional Rajisthani architecture, and European-style ceramics. It's said that this heritage-listed hotel was built by the Maharaja to welcome HRH Albert Edward, who visited in 1876.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the grounds, perhaps check out the vintage cars or take a dip in the swimming pools. This evening, you can also opt to attend the evening Aarti (prayer).
Please note: Lunch will be included in 2024. Please note there is no lunch included for departures in 2025, instead you will have time to enjoy lunch at your own expense.
Overnight: Karauli or Dholpur | Breakfast, Dinner
Jaipur
Karauli/Dholpur - Jaipur. This morning we hit the road towards the vibrant UNESCO listed Pink City of Jaipur. On arrival, we will spend the afternoon on a tour of the illustrious City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Space Observatory, which features 19 separate astrological instruments.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast, Lunch
The Pink City of Jaipur
Jaipur. Enjoy an unforgettable experience early this morning with an optional balloon ride over Jaipur. Sail with the wind over the surrounding region and pass above hill-top forts and regal palaces. Later, enjoy a jeep ride to Amber Fort for a guided tour and visit a cotton weaving house for an authentic demonstration of fabric dyeing. The remainder of the day is at your leisure, why not opt to explore the Johari Bazaar in the Old Pink City.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast
Return to Delhi
Jaipur - Delhi. This morning we return to Delhi where the rest of the day is free to relax in the hotel or explore. Perhaps visit the impressive Red Fort and see its famous Sound and Light Show after dark.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast
Delhi to Colombo
Delhi - Colombo. We say goodbye to India today. Make your own way to the airport for your onward flight. On arrival you’ll be transferred to our hotel to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Please note: The flight from Delhi - Colombo is not included in the cost of this tour. Sri Lankan Airlines fly direct. If you provide us with your flight details, we will be there to meet you at Colombo airport and transfer you to your hotel.
A departure transfer from Delhi to the Airport is included today for departures in 2024. If you are travelling in 2025 this can be booked for an additional supplement if required.
Overnight: Colombo | Breakfast
Dambulla & Sigiriya
Colombo - Dambulla - Sigiriya. Visit a local market in Naramwela this morning and continue to the Dambulla Rock Temple, the largest and best-preserved temple complex in Sri Lanka. There are hundreds of paintings and statues of Buddha spread over the five impressive caves. The largest of these is a 14-metre statue, carved straight from the cave rock.
After our visit we continue to the iconic UNESCO-listed Sigiriya rock fortress, which is more than 1,500 years old. Explore the impressive Lion Gate, the upper palace and the mirror wall, which was once polished so clean that the king could see his own reflection. You can also see the famous paintings of the Heavenly Maidens, reached by climbing a spiral stairway.
Overnight: Sigiriya | Breakfast
Polonnaruwa & Spice Gardens
Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa - Kandy. Our first stop today is the ancient UNESCO-listed city of Polonnaruwa. See the 12th century Royal Palace and the famous rock cut temple of Gal Vihara. Admire the four giant rock carvings of Buddha in different positions - sitting, standing and reclining.
Later, enjoy a local hand tractor ride and a canoe trip to the village of Kayanwala and join a cookery demonstration in a local mud brick house. Feast on a delicious lunch of curry, dahl and spiced rice and then visit a spice garden in Matale. We’ll tour the gardens and there is the opportunity to buy local spices in the shop, which make excellent souvenirs. After our visit we continue to Kandy for the night.
Overnight: Kandy | Breakfast
Temple of the Tooth & Tuk Tuks
Explore Kandy today with a guided sightseeing tour and take in highlights including the Temple of the Tooth - allegedly home to the relic of the tooth of Buddha. The tooth was historically important in local politics in Sri Lanka, as whoever held the relic oversaw the governance of the country. We also drive around Kandy Lake, visit a gem museum and stroll through a bustling local bazaar. We then enjoy an exhilarating tuk-tuk ride in the surrounding hills and marvel at the incredible scenery. Our final stop of the day is at Geragama Tea Factory to learn about the tea making process and taste a delicious cup of local tea
Overnight: Kandy | Breakfast
Scenic Train trip & Tea Plantations
Kandy - Nuwara Eliya. There is free time this morning to relax before we embark on a scenic train journey to Nuwara Eliya. The train winds along mountain passes and from lush jungle to sprawling tea plantations. Pass waterfalls and see beautiful suspension bridges before we arrive in Nuwara Eliya. The region is a popular hill resort and Sri Lanka’s most important tea producing region. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city, known as ‘Little England’ due to its colonial past, which is still clearly visible.
Overnight: Nuwara Eliya | Breakfast
Udawalawe NP Jeep Safari
Nuwara Eliya - Udawalawe National Park. Leaving Nuwara Eliya today, we travel to Udawalawe National Park and join a wildlife game drive this afternoon. The park is largely made up of grassland plains and you have a good chance of spotting rare species including elephants, leopards and the elusive Sri Lankan Sloth Bear.
Overnight: Udawalawe National Park | Breakfast
Colombo sightseeing
Udawalawe National Park - Colombo. This morning we visit the Gem Mine and Museum at Ratnapura on our way back to Colombo. Sri Lanka is famous for its gem industry and is home to 40 out of the 85 types of gems in the world. We then enjoy a guided tour of Colombo and discover highlights of the Fort area including the government buildings. See the stunning Gangaramaya Temple and take a stroll through Galle Face Green, a popular park on the coast.
Overnight: Colombo | Breakfast
Colombo
Saturday. Our tour comes to an end today with an included departure transfer to the airport.
Breakfast
Extend Your Stay!
Extend your stay with a relaxing 4 day beach break. Located on the south west of the island, palm fringed Bentota offers sandy white beaches, azure waters, colourful markets and opportunities for surfing and water sports.
On the last day of your Delhi to Colombo tour (day 15) you'll travel by private transfer from Colombo to Bentota for 4 nights of beach time bliss. Accommodation is at the beautiful Pandanus Beach Resort & Spa on a bed and breakfast basis. For more information on our 4 day beach break, contact us.
View our selection of add-ons and short stays to enhance your holiday.
The Delhi to Colombo tour can be arranged exclusively for you and your family or friends on a private basis, by paying the private tour supplement. Details are noted at the bottom of the prices & dates tab.
For information about visas, top travel tips, best time to travel and much more, browse our dedicated travel guide.
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.
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Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Park Inn by Radisson New Delhi, Delhi
Set in the heart of one of the most popular neighbourhoods of Delhi, the Park Inn by Radisson offers a comfortable stay in India’s bustling capital. With contemporary guestrooms which feature en suite bathrooms, high speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning and flat screen TVs. Enjoy al fresco dining and drinks at the 24-hour RBG Bar & Grill, which serves tasty traditional Indian fare and international cuisine. After a busy day of sightseeing, unwind with a swim in the hotel's sparkling pool or work up a sweat in the fitness centre. Ideally located just 20 minutes from the airport and a short walk from a metro station, it's easy to reach popular sites such as the Lotus Temple, India Gate and Connaught Place.
Best Western Maharani Bagh, Delhi
Best Western Maharani Bagh New Delhi offers comfortable accommodation amidst serene surroundings. Guests can enjoy the convenience of a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and a restaurant on-site. Services including a 24-hour front desk, room service, and complimentary WiFi throughout the property add to the convenience. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a desk, and a flat-screen TV, with some rooms featuring a balcony for added relaxation. Guests will also find amenities such as a wardrobe and a kettle, ensuring a comfortable stay at Best Western Maharani Bagh New Delhi.
Royale Regent Hotel, Agra
The stylish Royale Regent hotel offers views of the magnificent Taj Mahal from its rooftop pool, so guests can gaze at this World wonder while sipping on a cocktail and retreating from the hustle and bustle of the city. Each comfortable air-conditioned room features a minibar with tea and coffee making facilities, satellite TV as well as excellent en-suite facilities. Guests can also enjoy an array of flavours in the onsite garden or mutli-cuisine restaurant.
Royale Sarovar Portico, Agra
Experience the best of Agra's offerings at Royale Sarovar Portico, located just a 10-minute drive from the iconic Taj Mahal. Indulge in rejuvenating massages or pampering manicures and pedicures. Enjoy delectable meals at Hibiscus, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. Unwind in the outdoor pool, socialize at the bar/lounge, or stay active at the fitness center. With free Wi-Fi throughout the property, this upscale property offers massage services, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center for a fulfilling stay.
Bhanwar Vilas Palace, Karauli
Built in 1938, this stunning property is the residence of the Maharaja (181st in the Royal Dynasty) and Maharani of Karauli. Both the architecture and furniture have been designed in fitting with colonial styles and the property offers a fantastic insight into the history and elegance of a bygone era. The property offers deluxe rooms and luxury suites, each including a range of modern amenities such as a mini bar, a well-appointed ensuite and a plush king-sized bed. In the evenings, guests can tuck into an array of regional specialties as well as international cuisine in the hotel's restaurant.
Raj Niwas Palace, Dholpur, Karauli
With vibrant history and a rich heritage, Dholpur Palace also known as Raj Niwas Palace, is a mesmerizing journey back in time. Once home to generations of Royals, this converted palace still reflects the magnificence of the Rajasthani architecture of that era. Guest rooms offer a refreshing mix of Indian heritage and modern facilities including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a mini bar. Set in 13 acres of garden, the Palace grounds are full of peacock and bird life that nip over from the National Chambal Sanctuary nearby.
Mandawa Haveli, Jaipur
Made of pink and red sandstone, the beautiful heritage-style Mandawa Haveli is a fine example of typical Rajasthani architecture. All rooms are well appointed with intricately carved wooden beds and king-size royal portraits, with modern amenities such as free WiFi and ensuite bathrooms. Spend an evening dining on continental, Indian or Rajasthani cuisine on the outdoor terrace or request a private, candlelit dinner on the rooftop under a star-studded sky. Well located in the heart of Jaipur city on Sansar Chandra Road, this hotel is just a few minute’s drive from the Palace of the Winds.
Radisson Hotel Jaipur City Center, Jaipur
Radisson Hotel Jaipur City Centre is the perfect base for travelers touring India's famed Golden Triangle. Located centrally in Jaipur, the hotel is close to various forts, palaces and bazaars that the Pink City is renowned for. All guest rooms offer air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, kettle, a desk, seating areas and free Wi-Fi. The hotel offers a satisfying continental breakfast buffet at Mosiac, one of four on-site restaurants. Additionally, boasts a business center, a gym and spa, steam room and a relaxing rooftop pool where guests are free to unwind.
Radisson Hotel Colombo, Colombo
The Radisson Hotel Colombo (formerly OZO Colombo) is a modern and stylish hotel, with sweeping Indian Ocean views from its rooftop infinity pool and many of its rooms. There's free WIFI access throughout the hotel and the guestrooms are bright and airy with all modern amenities. To top it off, there's also a fantastic fitness centre and a restaurant serving delicious, authentic Sri Lankan cusine. The hotel is centrally located on Marine Drive, near Galle Road and just a 10 minute drive from the city centre.
The Paradise Resort & Spa, Sigiriya
An eco-friendly resort surrounded by the lush foliage of Sigiriya, this comfortable and conveniently located hotel is just a short distance from the sights of Sigiriya and Dambulla. The resort itself boasts an outdoor swimming pool and four dining options, where you can enjoy a selection of local fare and international favourites. There's also complimentary WiFi, a gym and spa facilities, and even bicycle rental available so you can explore the local area.
Radisson Hotel Kandy, Kandy
The stylish Radisson Hotel Kandy (formerly OZO Kandy), prides itself on its smart facilities and stunning mountain surrounds. Its highlight being the rooftop pool where you can soak up panoramic views over Kandy whilst enjoying a cocktail or two. The hotel’s all-day dining restaurant serves a tasty array of Asian and international cuisine using only fresh and handpicked produce. Other amenities include a fitness centre and complimentary WiFi, with guestrooms boasting signature soft beds and rain showers.
Jetwing St Andrew's, Nuwara Eliya
Jetwing St. Andrew's is a unique colonial retreat set in a former country house and surrounded by landscaped gardens. All the spacious rooms are classically furnished with elegant wood and offer free WiFi and flat-screen TVs. The grounds of the hotel give a great feel of colonial splendour and guests can wake up to a typical English breakfast and enjoy a stiff brandy at the bar later in the day. Fine dining is offered at the Old Course Restaurant and the hotel also boasts an antique snooker table, which is the oldest in Sri Lanka.
Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort, Udawalawe National Park
Situated on 7 acres of land, the Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort is the only hotel of its class in the area. Rooms are spacious with beautiful hard wood flooring and artwork depicting the wildlife of Udawalawe. Food here is delicious and plentiful with an extensive breakfast menu. The outdoor pool is a great place to relax by and enjoy a refreshing splash in after a good day on safari. Well located just a few minutes drive from Udawalawe National Park.
Reviews
Travellers have rated this tour as 4.33 out of 5 based on 3 recent reviews
The tour through part of North India was definitely eye-opening, even for a long term traveler like myself. It inspired many emotions and our guide Yusuf really helped to put things into perspective. His personal and historical narratives were greatly appreciated as well as all the support he gave me resolving some issues around the purchases I made in India. Yusuf is an excellent tour leader, very good at "herding cats and people". I am definitely looking at South India tours based upon his recommendations and overall presence in our group.”
The whole 2 country trip was amazing. Yusuf’s passion for India rubbed off on us all. India has its issues, poverty and rubbish, but we were able to see beyond that. The trip was well planned with a good balance of historical places, culture and tradition. Diwali was memorable. Yusuf is a true gentleman, with a great sense of humour, is very engaging, very efficient, who genuinely wanted to get to know us
Manoj was our main Sri Lankan guide. Sri Lanka is a real contrast to India with its tropical climate and different landscape. Our schedule was changed from day to day due to the cricket Test Matches in Sri Lanka and the changes to our hotels (location, upgrade and some complimentary evening meals). Zudi, our one day guide for our trip back to Colombo (Manoj continued whale watching and National Park) was amazing, very informative, friendly and did a great job.”
The trip was flawless from start to finish. Satish was a complete professional and gave lots of information throughout, made us laugh, gave honest insight into Indian culture and arranged every details to perfection. Have had the trip of a lifetime and will definitely return to India. ”
Tour in India & Sri Lanka. Excellent tour visiting major sites and others of interest. Kandy Festival was wonderful. Hotels excellent but generally isolated - opportunities to eat elsewhere would have been appreciated.”
Our guide opened my eyes to what a beautiful, vibrant, hectic, exciting country India is. And what a contrast Sri Lanka was - tropical & calm! Thank you for a great time. ”
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The tour through part of North India was definitely eye-opening, even for a long term traveler like myself. It inspired many emotions and our guide Yusuf really helped to put things into perspective. His personal and historical narratives were greatly appreciated as well as all the support he gave me resolving some issues around the purchases I made in India. Yusuf is an excellent tour leader, very good at "herding cats and people". I am definitely looking at South India tours based upon his recommendations and overall presence in our group.”
