8 Days Taj Mahal and Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

Embark on an extraordinary 8-day journey that seamlessly combines the grandeur of the Taj Mahal with the profound Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka. This captivating tour offers a unique culture, allowing you to witness historical treasures and engage in unforgettable experiences. From marveling at the sunset over the Taj Mahal to exploring ancient cities and sacred sites, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. Prepare to be captivated by the rich tapestry of India and Sri Lanka, as you uncover the hidden gems that make this region truly remarkable.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In India.

Good To Know

• This 8-day tour covers the iconic Taj Mahal in India and explores the ancient Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, providing a unique cultural and historical experience.

• The tour includes guided visits to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla Cave Temple, and Sigiriya Rock Fortress, among other significant landmarks.

• Accommodations, meals, and private transportation are included, with the option for free cancellation and private group options.

• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as it involves extensive walking and climbing at certain sites.

• The tour starts in Delhi, India, and concludes in Colombo, Sri Lanka, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the region’s cultural and religious heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 8-day Taj Mahal and Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of India’s iconic Taj Mahal and the ancient Buddhist sites of Sri Lanka.

Priced from ₹8,831 per person, the tour provides free cancellation, a private group option, and live tour guides in multiple languages.

The itinerary includes a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunset, exploring Agra Fort, and traveling to Sri Lanka to discover sites like the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanwelisaya, and Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Accommodation, meals, and transportation are included, while airfare, personal expenses, and visa fees are excluded.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and not bring large bags.

This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins in Delhi, where visitors are transferred to Agra to catch the evening light at Mehtab Bagh for a stunning view of the Taj Mahal.

The next morning, they’ll visit the iconic Taj Mahal at sunrise, followed by Agra Fort.

Then, it’s off to Sri Lanka, starting with the capital Colombo.

Over the next few days, the group will explore the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, witnessing the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree and Gal Vihara.

In Kandy, they’ll see the Temple of the Tooth Relic and enjoy a cultural show.

The final day includes visits to Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and Colombo’s Gangaramaya Temple before the departure.

Arrival in Delhi

Travelers typically arrive in Delhi, India’s vibrant capital, to commence their Taj Mahal and Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour. They’ll be greeted by the city’s bustling streets, ancient monuments, and diverse cultural heritage. After clearing customs, they’ll be transferred to their hotel in Agra, the home of the iconic Taj Mahal. In the evening, they’ll witness the stunning sunset view of the Taj Mahal from the serene Mehtab Bagh gardens.

Arrival Time	Greeting	Transport	Hotel
Varies	Warm welcome	Private vehicle	Deluxe
Early	Hassle-free	Air-conditioned	Comfortable
Smooth	Courteous staff	Reliable	Well-appointed
Stress-free	Helpful	Timely	Centrally located
Efficient	Friendly	Comfortable	Luxurious

Exploring Anuradhapura

After a scenic drive from Colombo, travelers arrive in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

They’ll visit the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree claimed to be the oldest documented tree in the world, having grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

The group also explores the impressive Ruwanwelisaya, a mammoth stupa dating back to the 2nd century BCE.

Nearby, they’ll discover the ruins of ancient monasteries, palaces, and other archaeological wonders that offer a glimpse into Anuradhapura’s illustrious past as the capital of Sri Lanka for over a millennium.

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Discovering Polonnaruwa

Leaving the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura behind, the group embarks on the next leg of their journey – exploring the captivating city of Polonnaruwa.

The day begins with a drive to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where they’ll marvel at the Gal Vihara, a collection of four massive Buddha statues carved into granite.

Next, they’ll visit Lankatilaka, a magnificent 14th-century temple renowned for its intricate stone carvings.

As they wander through the ruins, the group gains a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage and the region’s historical significance.

The tour provides ample opportunities to enjoy the cultural and architectural gems that make Polonnaruwa a must-visit destination.

Visiting Kandy

From Polonnaruwa, the group journeys onward to the captivating city of Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka.

In Kandy, they visit the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses a sacred tooth of the Buddha. The group also explores the lush Royal Botanical Gardens, marveling at the diverse flora.

As the day winds down, they’re treated to a vibrant cultural show, featuring traditional Kandyan dances and music.

• The Temple of the Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist shrine
• The sprawling Royal Botanical Gardens, a verdant oasis
• The captivating Kandyan cultural performance, a feast for the senses

Visiting Dambulla and Sigiriya

Next, the group ventures to the renowned Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient rock cave complex features five magnificent caves adorned with breathtaking Buddha statues and vibrant murals depicting religious scenes.

After exploring the cave temples, the tour proceeds to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Towering 200 meters above the surrounding plains, this ancient rock citadel offers a challenging climb rewarded by stunning panoramic views from the summit.

Visitors can marvel at the well-preserved frescoes, gardens, and ancient structures that showcase the ingenuity of Sri Lanka’s medieval engineering and architecture.

Departure From Colombo

After marveling at the architectural wonders of Sigiriya, the tour group bids farewell to the central highlands and sets their sights on the capital city of Colombo.

The drive back to Colombo allows them to take in the scenic countryside, passing by lush tea plantations and verdant rice fields.

Upon arrival, they visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. They also explore the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, a revered Buddhist temple with intricate frescoes and a reclining Buddha statue.

As the tour draws to a close, the group reflects on the:

• Majestic beauty of the Taj Mahal
• Timeless wisdom of the ancient Buddhist sites
• Warm hospitality of the Sri Lankan people

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can inquire about adding extra days to explore more destinations or spend more time at specific sites. Customizable tour options are available upon request.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring?

The amount of spending money needed will depend on personal preferences and expenses not included in the tour, such as optional activities, souvenirs, and extra meals. A general recommendation is to budget around $50-$100 per person per day for incidentals.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour recommends comfortable, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best for the warm climate. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are essential for navigating the historic sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing attire.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography?

The tour allows photography, but there are some restrictions. Visitors can’t use tripods or large bags. It’s best to bring a lightweight camera or smartphone and avoid obstructing others’ views. Photography may be limited in certain religious sites.

Can I Make Changes to the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Travelers can discuss any changes they’d like to make with the tour operator, who’ll work to accommodate their requests within the tour’s scope and schedule.

The Sum Up

This 8-day journey offers a captivating exploration of India’s iconic Taj Mahal and Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. Travelers will witness the breathtaking sunset over the Taj Mahal, uncover ancient cities, and marvel at significant sites like the Temple of the Tooth Relic and Dambulla Cave Temple. This tour provides a unique culture amidst the historical treasures of these remarkable destinations.

You can check availability for your dates here: