Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
16 Days Starting in Mumbai, India and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal
Visiting: Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, Kathmandu, Asia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ODY8-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through India and Nepal with the "Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu" tour. This cultural adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Mumbai, where you'll explore iconic landmarks and the vibrant Bollywood scene, to the sacred city of Varanasi, and the historical wonders of Delhi and Agra, including the majestic Taj Mahal. Experience the thrill of wildlife safaris in Ranthambore National Park, home to the elusive Bengal tiger, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Jaipur, the Pink City. Conclude your journey in Kathmandu, Nepal, exploring ancient temples and the serene beauty of the Himalayas. Enjoy luxurious accommodations and the expertise of local guides throughout this captivating tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Mumbai,India
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation Name: Trident, Nariman Point
Welcome to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a vibrant history—now India’s premier seaport and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry.
Day 2: Mumbai
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation Name: Trident, Nariman Point
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Join your Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Please note: You will meet your Tour Director on day 5 in Delhi.
Day 3: Mumbai,Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
MUMBAI–VARANASI Packed Lunches & Loyal Pilgrimages Today, witness Mumbai’s tiffin lunch box delivery system. Later this afternoon, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTLUNCH BOX HEROES Each weekday dabbawalas (box carriers) deliver thousands of home-cooked lunches to people at work. Using a simple coding system of colors, numbers, and letters, deliveries are made with nearly 100% accuracy. Watch and learn about this fascinating process starting at Churchgate Station where the dabbawalas transfer the boxes onto local trains for distribution. Ride on one of the trains to Mahalaxmi Station where you’ll disembark and see the boxes being sorted for final delivery.
Day 4: Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
VARANASI Sacred Rituals Near dawn, join your Local Guide and board a boat and watch a meaningful religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. You’ll observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga or meditation. Return to your hotel for breakfast and time at leisure. Early this evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT FIRE & WATER Witness the light of ancient tradition as night descends on the Ganges River in Varanasi. Witness the devotional offerings made to the Goddess Ganga in the aarti performed at the river’s edge as it has been done throughout the ages. A ritual of fire, faithful Hindus float “diyas” (small candle and flowers) on the waters of the Ganges River, while praying for the blessing of Maa Ganga.
Day 5: Varanasi,Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Le Meridien New Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Delhi, capital of India.
Day 6: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Le Meridien New Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DELHI Delhi Delights Today’s sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Then, visit Jama Masjid and Humayun’s Tomb, and take a [LF] rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of free time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner that includes a cooking demonstration and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITEMARKET HIGH Hop on a rickshaw and explore Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling a variety of goods and souvenirs—from silver and saris to spices and electronics.
Day 7: Delhi,Agra
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Trident, Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DELHI–AGRA Remembrance & Worship This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening. (B,L,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHTA RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE As Delhi’s largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), Gurudwara Bangla Sahib has religious significance and splendid architecture. The grand edifice is built in the Sikh architectural style, while this magnificent house of worship is made using stunning white marble below its commanding golden dome.
Day 8: Agra
Location: Agra
Accommodation Name: Trident, Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast
AGRA Moghul Monuments Start your day with a sunrise visit to the captivating Taj Mahal. After a bit of down time, travel to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTLOVE REMEMBERED Rise early for a bucket-list visit to the extravagant Taj Mahal, a marble monument to love. Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth. Your guided tour takes you inside the Mausoleum, with time to explore on your own and reflect.
Day 9: Agra,Fatehpur Sikri,Ranthambore National Park Area
Location: Ranthambore National Park
Accommodation Name: Ranthambhore Kothi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
AGRA–FATEHPUR SIKRI–RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK AREA By Road & Rail Today, stop at Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for merely 10 years before it was completely abandoned due to the lack of adequate water. After lunch in Bharatpur, board a train bound for Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger! (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION An oasis near the wild places of Ranthambore National Park, the Ranthambore Kothi Resort offers a lush retreat indulging you in a fusion of luxury and nature. With just 28 rooms appointed in the style of British bungalows, small groups enjoy the serenity of the hotel's gardens and lush jungle vegetation surrounding a luxurious swimming pool.
Day 10: Ranthambore Area
Location: Ranthambore National Park
Accommodation Name: Ranthambhore Kothi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
RANTHAMBORE AREA The Game is Afoot Today, explore Ranthambore National Park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. Between game drives, enjoy free time to relax. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE In addition to Bengal tigers, Ranthambore National Park is home to leopards, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and more. Take the opportunity to spot them all on today’s guided game drives via small-capacity vehicles perfect for your group.
Day 11: Ranthambore Area,Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Jaipur Marriott Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
RANTHAMBORE AREA–JAIPUR Jaunt to Jaipur Today, travel to Jaipur. Explore the historic sights where, in 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and called the “Pink City” ever since. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC GEMS Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar, consisting of 19 astronomical instruments used for measuring time and dates back to 1728. Next, visit the City Palace Museum, once the royal residence and now showcases a collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes from the past.
Day 12: Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Jaipur Marriott Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
JAIPUR Jewels of Jaipur Today, visit the amazing Amber Fort in the morning. Lastly, visit a [LF] local vocational training program for children. Tonight, enjoy a home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family, followed by a sari-and turban-tying demonstration. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITEPROMISING FUTURES Ladli is a training program teaching orphaned children valuable skills. Here, learn about the project while interacting with the children and helping them practice their English skills.TOUR HIGHLIGHTFORMIDABLE FORTRESS Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the “Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan,” built entirely of white marble and red sandstone. This fortress-palace has a somber exterior that hides a richly ornate interior of royal apartments, including an alabaster Hall of Victory and a superb Chamber of Mirrors. TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Your small group is invited to visit the home of a local noble family to share a home-prepared dinner. You’ll also learn the art of sari-and-turban tying in the beloved tradition of India.
Day 13: Jaipur,Kathmandu,Nepal
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Kathmandu (via Delhi), Nepal’s capital city, where you will be met by a Globus representative. Please note: Your Tour Director does not accompany guests on extensions. Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu is as outlined in the itinerary.
Day 14: Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
KATHMANDU City Sights & Goddess Lights Join your Local Guide for morning sightseeing starting with a visit to Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty. Then, visit the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTLIVING FAITH Discover the mysteries of the Temple of Kumari where the Living Goddess resides. Here, the manifestation of the Divine Mother is believed to live in the young girl who embodies The Energy – all riches, strength, beauty, and knowledge of the creator of the Universe. The temple is said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree, featuring a 4-pillar hall from which sounds emanate from string and percussion instruments. A mysteriously beautiful sight!
Day 15: Kathmandu Patan Excursion
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, travel with your Local Guide to Bouddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Then, continue to Patan, formerly known as Lalitpur (City of Beauty). Here, stop in Durbar Square, the city’s center of business and home to several Buddhist and Hindu sites.
Day 16: Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various cities including Trident, Nariman Point in Mumbai, Taj Ganges in Varanasi, Le Meridien in New Delhi, Trident in Agra, Ranthambhore Kothi in Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur Marriott Hotel in Jaipur, and Vivanta Kathmandu in Kathmandu.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours in various locations including Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, and Kathmandu.
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Transportation
Flights from Mumbai to Varanasi, Varanasi to Delhi, and Jaipur to Kathmandu (via Delhi). Train from Bharatpur to Sawai Madhopur.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Agra Fort, Amber Fort, Bouddahanath, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Durbar Square, Fatehpur Sikri, Hanuman Dhoka, Humayun's Tomb, Jaipur Walled City, Jantar Mantar, Patan, Qutab Minar, and the Taj Mahal.
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Small Group Discoveries
Small-Group Discoveries limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure, ensuring extra space and personalized experiences.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages not included in the itinerary.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into India and Nepal are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, 5 dinners
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Agra Fort|Amber Fort|Bouddhanath|Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus|Durbar Square|Fatehpur Sikri|Hanuman Dhoka|Humayun's Tomb|Jaipur Walled City|Jantar Mantar|Patan|Qutab Minar|Taj Mahal
Accommodation
Mumbai: Trident, Nariman Point; Varanasi: Taj Ganges, Varanasi; Delhi: Le Meridien New Delhi; Agra: Trident, Agra; Ranthambore National Park: Ranthambhore Kothi; Jaipur: Jaipur Marriott Hotel; Kathmandu: Vivanta Kathmandu.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes flights between Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, and Kathmandu, as well as a train journey to Ranthambore National Park and various drives between cities.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at various high-quality hotels such as Trident, Nariman Point in Mumbai, Taj Ganges in Varanasi, Le Meridien in New Delhi, Trident in Agra, Ranthambhore Kothi in Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur Marriott Hotel in Jaipur, and Vivanta Kathmandu in Kathmandu.
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What activities are included in Mumbai?
In Mumbai, you will join a Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city's famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. You will also witness Mumbai's tiffin lunch box delivery system, see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat), and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi.
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What can I expect to see in Varanasi?
In Varanasi, you will experience the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. The itinerary includes a flight to Varanasi and a day to explore the city.
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What are the highlights of the Delhi tour?
In Delhi, the sightseeing includes an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. You will also visit Jama Masjid and take a rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. Additionally, you will visit Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.
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What will I see in Agra?
In Agra, you will start your day with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. You will also visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar.
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What activities are planned in Ranthambore National Park?
In Ranthambore National Park, you will explore the park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. There will also be free time to relax between the game drives.
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What will I experience in Jaipur?
In Jaipur, you will travel to the city known as the 'Pink City' and have the opportunity to explore its rich history and culture.
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What are the key attractions in Kathmandu?
In Kathmandu, you will visit Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty, and the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess. You will also travel to Bouddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world, and visit Patan, stopping in Durbar Square.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily, 8 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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Is there an option for a smaller group tour?
Yes, Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. These tours include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.