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
Old and New Delhi sightseeing
Enjoy a day of sightseeing in India’s capital city. In Old Delhi we visit the UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid - the oldest and largest mosque in India. Continue to the site of Gandhi’s cremation at Raj Ghat before we stroll down the ceremonial Rajpath and admire the famous India Gate monument in New Delhi. We also enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk bazaar. Our Namaste dinner takes place this evening so you can get to know your tour group.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast, Dinner
The Taj Mahal
Delhi - Agra. Leaving Delhi, we travel to Agra - former capital of the Mughal Empire. We’ll explore behind the fortified walls of Agra Fort and continue to the Taj Mahal - India’s most recognised attraction. Enjoy a guided tour of this famous white mausoleum, commissioned in the 17th century by the Emperor Shah Jahan and built by 20,000 workers. The Taj Mahal stands in memory of the Emperor’s beloved wife who died tragically in childbirth. It remains the most extravagant and beautiful symbol of love the world has ever seen and has no rival.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast
Fatehpur Sikri
Agra - Karauli/Dholpur. This morning we visit the eerie former Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri which has laid abandoned for more than 400 years. Continue to the beautiful Palace Bhanwar Vilas in Karauli, or the Raj Niwas Palace in Dholpur stopping for lunch en route. Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the grounds. This evening, perhaps opt to attend the evening Aarti (prayer).
Please Note: If staying In Dholpur you will visit Fatephur Sikri on the morning of Day 5 on the way to Jaipur.
Overnight: Karauli or Dholpur | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jaipur
Karauli/Dholpur - Jaipur. This morning we travel to a local school (if open) to meet the pupils and teachers. We operate our Change for Children programme here and any donation you make would be appreciated. After the visit we continue to the UNESCO-listed Pink City of Jaipur, where the rest of the day is at leisure. You may wish to catch a Bollywood film at the Raj Mandir cinema, which always has a lively atmosphere. Expect cheering when the hero of the film appears on screen.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast, Lunch
The Pink City of Jaipur
Rise early this morning if you wish to join an optional Hot Air Balloon Over Jaipur. Climb aboard a hot air balloon and float with the wind over hill-top forts, temples and palaces. Returning to land, we travel to the striking 16th century Amber Fort. Enjoy a tour of this well-preserved fortress, which is spread out over four levels and sits on the shore of the majestic Maota Lake. We then return to Jaipur, stopping en route at a local cotton weaving house. Later enjoy a tour of city highlights including the impressive City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar space observatory, which features 19 separate astrological instruments.
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 and transfer to the airport for our flight to Sri Lanka. 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.
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 bullock cart 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
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are operating. All departure dates from 1 Apr 2023 are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. Prior to this date a departure is guaranteed with 4 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Read More
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.
Holiday Inn Mayur Vihar, Delhi
Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida is a modern hotel, located in the heart of bustling Delhi NCR. With Mayur Vihar Metro Station less than 550 yards away, providing easy access to the commercial hubs of Noida, South Delhi and Connaught Place. Comfort is guaranteed in the contemporary guest rooms, which feature an ergonomic chair, high speed WiFi, in room safe and LED TV. Relax and unwind in the outdoor infinity pool and workout at the 24 hour Fitness Centre. There's a choice of dining options, with Café on 3, offering Indian and international delicacies, overlooking the infinity pool and a beautiful alfresco area, while the Kylin Experience restaurant serves delicious Asian cuisine and tasty signature cocktails
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.
Hotel Royale Residency , Agra
Situated a stone’s throw away from the legendary Taj Mahal, the Royal Residency Hotel is perfectly located for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in Agra’s famous monuments. 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 enjoy an array of flavours around the world in the multi-cuisine restaurant, or perhaps sip on a cocktail next to the outdoor pool.
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 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. ”
At a Glance
Tour Add-ons
Enhance your trip with these amazing added extras and add-ons
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.”
