India and Nepal Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi, India

Welcome to India! Your guide will meet you at Delhi International Airport and welcome you with a marigold garland. They will take you to your hotel in a private air-conditioned vehicle. After checking into the hotel, spend the day to your liking. If you arrive early, you can explore the streets nearby and enjoy the first glimpse of India. You will stay overnight in Delhi.

Day 2: Old and New Delhi Sightseeing

The tour begins in Old Delhi at Chandni Chowk. Established by Emperor Shah Jahan, Chandni Chowk is a market with immense historical significance. Visit the market filled with many colorful shops, spice stalls, and sweet vendors, giving an authentic glimpse into the life of Old Delhi. You can stop for photos at the Red Fort, a 17th-century Mughal fortress that was once the seat of Power. Then, continue to Raj Ghat, the black marble platform cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, with an eternal flame.

Then, you will visit New Delhi. New Delhi is famous for its colonial architecture and broad avenues. You can see the Birla Mandir, dedicated to Vishnu and Lakshmi. Birla Mandir, also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, is renowned for its intricate carvings and serene gardens. You will drive along Rajpath to see the 42m high stone arch, India Gate. India built the Gate in honor of the Indian soldiers lost in World War I. Rashtrapati Bhawan/President’s Palace and Parliament House are iconic government buildings.

Then, visit the historic stepwell hidden among Connaught Place’s modern buildings, Agrasen Ki Baoli. Continue to the Bahá’í House of Worship, Lotus Temple. It has a white marble interior and is open to all faiths. It is closed on Mondays, so make sure you avoid the day. Your final stop of the day is Qutub Minar, a 12th-century 73m minaret listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features the ruins of India’s first mosque and the Iron Pillar of Ashoka, which surrounds it.

After a full day of sightseeing, return to your hotel and spend the night in Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra (Approximately 225 km/4 hours)

Have an early breakfast and leave the city to go to Agra. Hop on a private car and enjoy a glimpse of India’s rural landscape and small towns. A 4-hour drive will take you to the magnificent city of Agra.

After resting at your hotel, begin your tour with the Agra Fort. Emperor Akbar built this massive red sandstone fortress in the 16th century. Enter the fort through the Amar Singh Gate and explore royal pavilions, audience halls, and mosques inside the fort. Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), the elegant Khas Mahal, and Musamman Burj, where Shah Jahan’s son imprisoned him, are the key highlights in this 2.5km long wall. You can also see the Taj Mahal from certain parts of the gate.

Visit the Taj Mahal in the evening to make your trip truly memorable. The white marble soaks up the afternoon sun and changes colors as the sunset approaches, making the view even more beautiful. Shah Jahan built this white marble mausoleum in 1653 to commemorate his beloved wife, Empress Mumtaz Mahal. Walk through the beautiful Mughal gardens and admire the perfect symmetry of the Mahal in the long water channel.

Take a close look at the pietra dura stone inlay work and experience the splendor of the Taj Mahal. You can stop by the marble inlay workshop to watch artisans practicing the centuries-old craft that is a hallmark of the Taj Mahal. You can also stop at the handicraft center, which features Agra’s famous woven goods and rugs. Return to your hotel and spend the night in Agra.

Day 4: Agra to Jaipur Drive and Abhaneri (Approximately 150km/5hours)

Learn more about the Taj Mahal today, then depart from Agra. You will drive to Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, today. You will stop at Fatehpur Sikri and Abhaneri en route.

Fatehpur Sikri was once the imperial capital of Emperor Akbar and was built entirely of red sandstone. People abandoned it after 14 years due to a water shortage. You can visit its courtyards and palaces with your guide. The city highlights are Jama Masjid, Panch Mahal, and the Tomb of Salim Chisti.

The Jama Masjid is one of India’s largest mosques. The Panch Mahal is five-storey tall, and the Tomb of Salim Chisti is made of white marble, honoring the Sufi saint who blessed Akbar. Visit the Buland Darwaja or the Gate of Victory at the entrance. Fatehpur Sikri takes you back to the Mughal era during the late 1500s.

Then you will drive to Abhaneri, a small village known for its stepwell, Chand Baori. The driver will assist with entry, but the tour doesn’t involve a guide. This stepwell is India’s deepest at 20m underground, with 3,500 perfectly symmetrical narrow steps across 13 tiers. You can descend a little to notice the temperature drop. The Harshat Mata Temple, the temple of the goddess of joy and happiness, stands on the opposite side of the stepwell.

Resume your drive to Jaipur and arrive by late afternoon. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and the first planned city of India. You are free to do anything you like in the evening in Jaipur. You can visit famous markets like Bapu and Johari Bazaars to shop for textiles and jewelry. Stay overnight in Jaipur.

Day 5: Jaipur Sightseeing, Then Evening Drive to Delhi

Today is your Jaipur city tour. The tour starts with a drive to the nearby hilltop of Amber Fort, where you can look over the beautiful Maota Lake. You will change vehicles at the base of the hill and board a jeep to cross the ramparts and reach the main entrance.

You will transmigrate into the era of the Maharajas within this fort while exploring its grand courtyards, audience halls, and royal palaces. Sheesh Mahal, the Palace of Mirrors, with thousands of tiny mirrors decorating it, and Ganesh Pol are the two main highlights inside the fort. You can enjoy the surrounding desert fields from the fort.

You will stop at Panna Meena ka Kund on the way back. This 16th-century stepwell is famous for its geometric staircases. Visit the local handicraft center where artisans create Jaipur’s historical jewelry, carpets, and blue pottery. You can shop for souvenirs and learn the traditional craftsmanship here.

Then, continue to Jal Mahal, also known as the Water Palace, to admire its architecture situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. You will visit the City Palace, a luxurious royal residence that blends Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles.

Explore the palace’s courtyards, museums, and exhibits. The key highlights are Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-i-am, Diwan-i-Khas, and Peacock Gate.  The City Palace Museum exhibits the two largest silver urns, used by the British to transport Ganges water to England.

Jantar Mantar is an 18th-century observatory by Maharaja Jai Singh II. It is also the largest stone sundial in the world. People in ancient times used these instruments for astronomical calculations and navigation.

After the City Palace, you’ll visit the Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal. This five-story, pink sandstone, iconic landmark features 953 lattice windows, which were used by royal women to watch the street festivals. You can visit it and enjoy the bustling city view.

After Hawa Mahal, you can visit the local markets and shop for gemstones, textiles, and handicrafts. The guide will recommend reputable shops and accompany you to the bazaar.

Take a vehicle to Delhi in the evening to return to the city. The drive is about 5-6hours long with a few stops for restrooms or refreshments. You’ll arrive in Delhi late at night. Check in at your hotel in Delhi and rest well.

Day 6: Fly from Delhi to Kathmandu, Nepal

Today, you will board a flight to Kathmandu, Nepal. Arrive at least three hours before departing for airport formalities.

You will arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu after about 1.5 hours of flight. Finish your visa process and meet your Nepal representative at the airport. Your guide welcomes you to the country and drives you to your hotel.

You will get your first city view when you get to your hotel. Check into your hotel and rest well, or explore the city. The day is yours to enjoy.

You can take a short walk in Thamel or visit cafes and restaurants. Buy a local SIM card or exchange currency today.

Return to your hotel and stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 7: Everest Scenic Flight & Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

You can take an optional flight to the Himalayas. This optional flight departs in the early morning and flies over the Himalayan range, offering views of the highest peaks, including Mount Everest. Lhotse, Makalu, and more. Each passenger gets a window seat for exceptional aerial views. The airline crews will highlight the major peaks so you don’t miss anything. After returning, have your breakfast and begin your Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing.

You will begin with a drive to Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is also known as a living museum. You can visit the Durbar Square and explore the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and the Peacock window. The city is known for its traditional Newari craftsmanship and the king curd yogurt, juju dhau.

Then you will visit the sacred Hindu Temple Pashupatinath. This temple, located on the banks of the Bagmati River, is not open to people of different faiths; however, you can observe rituals, Sadhus, and the cremation process from the riverside terraces. Your guide will share their insights on the significance of this holy temple and river.

Then you will continue to the Bouddhanath Stupa, the largest Buddhist stupa in the world. This pilgrimage is a key site for Tibetan Buddhists. You can explore the stupa and the nearby markets, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the site. Walk clockwise, spin the prayer wheels, and enjoy the air filled with the scent of incense.

You will then visit the Monkey Temple, also known as the Swayambhunath Stupa. Swayambhunath sits on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the entire city of Kathmandu. You can drive to the entrance or climb 365 steps to reach the stupa’s entrance. You can explore the main stupa and the surrounding shrines while the guide explains the site’s importance.

You will enjoy the perfect blend of Hinduism and Buddhism in the historical capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. Return to your hotel in the evening and spend the night in Kathmandu.

Day 8: Fly to Pokhara + Lakeside Leisure

Today, you leave Kathmandu and fly to the beautiful city of Pokhara. This short flight of around 25 minutes offers excellent mountain views and takes you to the adventure hub of Nepal. Try sitting on the right side of the place for the best views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.

Your guide will wait at the airport and drive you to the hotel. Phewa Lake is the main highlight of the city. Pokhara sits at around 827m and is more relaxed than Kathmandu. Check into your hotel and enjoy the day to your liking. You can stroll around the lakeside area or even go boating in Phewa Lake. The lakeside has many cafes, restaurants, and shops., You can stop for dinner in one of these restaurants and see reflections of the Annapurna range on the water. Rent a small wooden boat and visit the Tal Barahi Temple a small lake island. This two-storey Durga temple sits on a small island in the middle of the lake.

Enjoy the evening in this serene city. Rest overnight in Pokhara.

Day 9: Pokhara Sunrise and City Tour

Your day begins with an early morning drive to the Sarangkot Viewpoint. You will reach the famous viewpoint after a 30-minute drive, followed by a short walk. Enjoy the sunrise over the Annapurna range from here. The golden and pink hues hit the snowy white mountains, creating a memorable and stunning sunrise view. You will also see Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna South from here. Return to your hotel for breakfast after absorbing this incredible view.

After breakfast, explore the beautiful city. If you missed yesterday, you can go boating on Phewa Lake today. Enjoy the calm water and visit the Tal Barahi Temple if you wish. You can see Machhapuchhre’s reflection on the lake and the paragliders above Sarangkot.

Then you will continue to Devi’s Fall, where the Pardi Khola stream flows strongly into an underground gorge. Locals believe the water from these falls goes directly into the afterworld. Then, you will go to the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, the longest cave in Nepal. This cave houses a sacred Shiva shrine within the cave, offering a glimpse of the Devi’s falls. The limestone walls drip, creating a slippery path. Make sure to wear Saturday shoes for protection.

You will stop at Tibetan settlements like Tashi Ling or Chhorepatan Tibetan Village. Visit the monastery, watch artisans making hand-woven carpets, and visit the handicraft shops for Tibetan jewelry, prayer flags, and unique souvenirs. You will get an insight into Tibetan culture and resilience here.

Take a break for lunch, then continue to the World Peace Pagoda or the Shanti Stupa. This white stupa sits on a hill south of Phewa Lake. You can take a short 45-minute forest hike or a 20-minute drive to this stupa. Enjoy the views of the beautiful Annapurna range, Pokhara city, and Phewa Lake. Experience a spiritual atmosphere by paying respect to the Buddha statues.

You can then go to an optional spot, Pumdikot Viewpoint. You can visit Pumdikot Hill to see the large Shiva statue, enjoy excellent city views, and take in the Himalayan range. You can witness the city turn orange as the sunset approaches.

Return to your hotel and rest for the night in Pokhara.

Day 10: Fly to Chitwan & Begin Jungle Adventure

After breakfast, board a short 20-minute flight to Chitwan. You will notice a transition from the Himalaya hills to the flat plains in Terai. A representative will be waiting for you at Bharatpur Airport or Meghauli Airstrip. Ty will drive you to Sauraha, the gateway to Chitwan National Park, and help you check into your lodge., The warm and tropical weather gives you a break from the cool mountain weather.

Enjoy a Nepali or continental lunch with views of lush gardens and occasional monkeys, deer, and birds.

You will go on a village walk or an ox-cart ride to a nearby Tharu village. The Tharu people are the indigenous group of the area, known for their connection to nature. You will walk through the mud-and-thatch houses, see traditional farming techniques, and learn about the locals’ daily life. The people coexist with the wildlife, making the place a new experience.

You will head to the Rapti River during sunset to watch the sunset over the horizon. You will see birds and crocodiles in the Rapti.

Return to your hotel for dinner with a Tharu cultural dance performance. Dancers dance in their traditional attire to the ethnic tick dances and folk routines. Learn the community’s heritage and join in for the final dance to end the night with memories.

After dinner, enjoy by the fireplace or at the bar and listen to the jungle sounds. Rest overnight in Chitwan.

Day 11: Wildlife Safari in Chitwan National Park

You will ride in a 4WD open jeep with your naturalist guide for a safari in the Chitwan National Park. Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s first and most famous wildlife reserve. You can find sal forest, grasslands, riverine wetlands, and various species.

You may spot a one-horned rhinoceros grazing or enjoying the mud pools. Look for spotted deer, sambar deer, hog deer, wild boars, and langur monkeys. You may even see the rare Bengal tiger or leopard if you’re lucky.

Over 500 species of birds inhabit Chitwan, including kingfishers, eagles, peacocks, and mynah birds. You may also see mugger crocodiles or the endangered gharials on the riverbanks or in the water. You will enjoy the drive on the bumpy roads through the tall grasses.

Return to your lodge for lunch and get some rest. You can go swimming or relax after the half-day safari.

The afternoon starts with a canoe ride in the Rapti River. Look for crocodiles on the banks and river birds, such as storks and kingfishers. You may even spot the Gangetic dolphin if you’re lucky. The canoe ride lasts approximately 30-45 minutes, providing a peaceful experience.

Then, continue to the Elephant Breeding Centre to learn about the efforts of the local government to conserve and breed Asian elephants. You get to see elephants up close and talk to mahouts about their care and behavior. We don’t include elephant-back rides to emphasize our commitment to ethical wildlife practices and responsible tourism.

Return to your hotel as the jungle cools and jungle sounds linger in the air. Relax in the evening and rest overnight in Chitwan while enjoying the final night in this serene wilderness.

Day 12: Return to Kathmandu and Free Time

Today you will return to Kathmandu. You can join an optional early bird-watching walk with the lodge’s naturalist or simply relax in the morning. Look out for woodpeckers, parakeets, and hornbills while on the walk.

Board a flight to Kathmandu from Bharatpur airport and return to the capital. A representative will drive you back to your hotel in Kathmandu. You can spend the day as you like.

You can shop in the Thamel area for souvenirs such as pashmina shawls, singing bowls, prayer flags, thangka paintings, and Nepali tea.

If you missed any key heritage sites, you can go sightseeing today. You may go to Patan Durbar Square or the Pashupatinath Temple.

You can get an Ayurvedic Spa, a traditional massage, or relax in a cafe to enjoy Kathmandu one last time.

You may go for a farewell dinner and enjoy a traditional Nepali meal to celebrate your trip. Rest overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu

Today is your final day in Kathmandu. You can enjoy leisure time in your hotel for last-minute planning or relaxing.

We will drive you to the airport at least 3 hours before departure to ensure you have enough time for airport formalities. Reflect on your trip from the rich architecture of India’s Golden Triangle to Nepal’s lush green jungles and mountains.

Thank you for choosing us for your trip. Safe travels. We hope to hear from you in the future.