India and Nepal Expedition 20 Day Tour
India and Nepal Expedition 20 Day Tour
India and Nepal Expedition 20 Day Tour
20 Days Starting in New Delhi, Delhi, India and ending in Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Visiting: New Delhi, Lotus Temple, Taj Mahal, New Delhi, Jaipur, Pink City, Pushkar, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort, Bikaner, Kathmandu, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara, Australian Camp Trail head
Tour operator:
Tour code:
INEX20D
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
3 - 22
Age range:
18-45
Special diets catered:
Halal, Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
One Life Adventures is a premium youth operator, specialising in trips for travellers aged 18-45 years inclusive (at the time of travel). Journey with One Life to India and Nepal on our 20 Day Expedition Group Tour. Perfect for those who crave authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist path, travelling with our group provides safety and peace of mind as you explore India and Nepal. Our 20-day India and Nepal Expedition tour offers a unique travel experience through two of the world's most captivating countries. From the iconic Taj Mahal at sunrise to the awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayas, every day will bring new wonders. You'll explore bustling cities, tranquil temples, and everything in between. Our itinerary takes you beyond the surface, allowing you to engage with local artisans, learn traditional cooking methods, and gain insight into the rich cultures of India and Nepal.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In India!
Location: New Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Double/Twin Rooms The Florence Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to India, a country that requires little introduction. This vast subcontinent is a tapestry of unrivaled cultures, offering phenomenal cuisine, warm hospitality, remarkable diversity, and immersive architecture shaped by religion, pride, patriotism, and history.
Arrive throughout the day, get an airport transfer and meet your group leader at your hotel in the heart of New Delhi. Tonight, you’ll venture out as a group for your welcome dinner and your first chance to sample that famous Indian cuisine.
Day 2 : Delhi City Tour & Street Food Tour
Location: Lotus Temple
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Double/Twin Rooms The Florence Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, you'll head out with your local guide through the streets of Delhi and get your first real introduction to Indian life. The first stop is a beautiful Sikh Temple, where your local legend will educate you on this important religion and culture. Next, step into the huge community kitchen, where Sikhs provide free meals to residents of the city, every day. Watch how thousands of chapatis are made and stir the giant curry pots yourself.
After lunch, you'll visit the illustrious Lotus Temple and wander through the gardens. You'll head inside the Temple for a moment of silence and reflect on your reasons for visiting this great country.
In the evening, you will be transferred to Old Delhi, a chaotic city lost in time. Your guide will educate the group on the area and fill your bellies with Indian sweets and snacks. You will then be taken by rickshaws (similar to Tuk-Tuks) through Chandni Chowk to Mutton Street. Chandni Chowk, known as the "Moonlit Market," is a bustling hub of vibrant bazaars, eclectic stalls, and historic shrines, embodying the essence of Old Delhi's dynamic lifestyle. During the tour, you'll enjoy some of the most delicious skewers and Islamic food available.
Day 3 : Agra, Sunset At The Taj Mahal
Location: Taj Mahal, New Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Double/Twin Rooms Maple Grand (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you'll transfer to Agra by train and check into your hotel. In the afternoon you will take Tuk Tuks to a quiet garden south of the Taj Mahal to view this magnificent structure away from the crowds at sunset. This serene setting offers a much quieter and unique way to appreciate this spectacular building.
Tomorrow, you'll head inside, but today is all about enjoying the beauty that this monument has to offer. You'll grab dinner in the evening and get an early night as we are up for sunrise tomorrow.
Day 4 : Agra, Sunrise Taj Mahal & Bollywood Movie
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Double/Twin Rooms Surya Villa (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's an early start today as you wake up at the crack of dawn to head to the Taj Mahal to beat the crowds and experience it in almost perfect silence. Your new local guide will show you the best spots to see the building, where Princess Diana took that famous shot and of course the fascinating story of romance behind one of the world’s most recognisable buildings. As you head inside, learn all the secrets that most people don’t know about what makes the Taj Mahal so special. Afterwards, you'll head back to the hotel for breakfast and then take a bus to Jaipur.
Jaipur, also known as the pink city, is truly a feast for the eyes. The stunning palaces, majestic forts, and lush royal gardens showcase the grandeur of this 18th-century city. The pastel pink heritage buildings are set against vibrant bazaars. The local food is equally colorful with unique flavors. The locals' colorful outfits, unique jewelry, and love for folk songs and dances make this Pink City a treasure of Rajasthani culture.
This evening, watch a Bollywood movie the way the director intended it to be watched, in one of the grandest theatres in the world.
Day 5 : Jaipur: Pink City, Hawa Mahal
Location: Pink City
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Double/Twin Rooms Surya Villa (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast in the hotel, your guide will take you on an orientation walk of the old town. You'll visit the local market, understand the origins of the “Pink City,” meet some locals and market traders and learn all about the spices that are synonymous with Indian cooking. You'll also view the excellent Palace of the Winds - Jaipur's signature palace made of red and pink sandstone.
Next, jump in some Tuk Tuks to visit Galta-Ji, also known as the Monkey Temple. This temple, built into the hills, is home to hundreds of grey long-tailed Asian monkeys. You will have the rest of the day free to explore the other sites of Jaipur.
Day 6 : Pushkar, Blessing On The Lake
Location: Pushkar
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Camp Land’s End (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast in the morning, you'll take a private transfer to Pushkar, known as one of the holiest towns in India. Pushkar is a backpacker’s paradise with amazing food, beautiful markets, rolling landscapes, hiking and unrivalled sunsets. Tonight you will sleep in the desert on a gorgeous glamping site, with huge tents fitted with comfortable beds. In the afternoon, a local Brahmin will induct you to Pushkar properly with a blessing on the holy lake and you’ll grab a drink at a lakeside cafe before heading back to camp to sleep under the stars.
Day 7 : Udaipur, Sunset Cruise On Lake Pichola
Location: Udaipur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Raj Palace (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you'll return to Ajmer before taking the train to Udaipur, the “White City” – also known as the city of lakes. It is also the location for filming the James Bond film, Octopussy! The lakes and architecture provide a perfect balance between the hectic and the tranquil and no better way to experience this is with a walk through the markets and old town and finishing with a private sunset cruise on the lake. Afterwards, you’ll head to one of our favourite rooftop restaurants for dinner with a view.
Day 8 : Udaipur, Bike Tour & Cooking Demonstration
Location: Udaipur
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Raj Palace (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It will be an early start today as you head out of town for a bike ride village tour. Your guide, who is from the local village, will introduce you to the ways the locals live. They will teach you about their culture and heritage as well as show you the local temples important to village life. After the bike tour, you will visit a local school during your time in this area. You'll have some free time in the afternoon before heading back to camp at sunset to work with local villagers learning how to cook traditional Indian cuisine.
Day 9 : On To Jodhpur & The Blue City
Location: Jodhpur
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Kuchaman Haveli (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will take a bus to the home of the blue city, Jodhpur. On arrival in the evening, we’ll transfer to our traditional Haveli accommodation. Your Haveli is situated in the middle of the blue city where the walls are painted blue throughout this labyrinth of buildings in the shadow of the ever imposing Mehrangarh Fort. After checking in, you will meet your group on the rooftop for dinner to catch your first glimpse of one of our favourite cities in Rajasthan.
In the late afternoon, you will stroll through the mesmerising blue city and pause at the Jodhpur stepwell, an impressive marvel of ancient stonework. As you wander around the clock tower market, you can sample the famous Saffron Lassi and some delicious samosas. Finally, you will head back to your accommodation to wrap up the day.
Day 10 : Mehrangarh Fort
Location: Mehrangarh Fort
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Kuchaman Haveli (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You will have the morning free to relax after yesterday's travel. During your free time, you can choose to explore the blue city on foot, take a rooftop yoga class, or, for the more adventurous, zipline over the ramparts of the Jodhpur fort. In the early afternoon, your group will meet and walk to the Mehrangarh fort with your local guide. Your guide will show you around the immaculately kept fort, and with the assistance of an audio guide, you’ll leave with a thorough understanding of Indian royal life.
Day 11 : Safari In The Dunes & Camel Research Centre
Location: Bikaner
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Hotel Jaswant Bhawan Apr-Aug / Camp Rajputana Sep-Mar (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning you will take an early train to Bikaner. Bikaner is a feast for the eyes – think vibrant colors, ancient landscapes, and traditions that will make you want to stay forever.
This place has quite the backstory. Founded in the 15th century smack in the middle of the Thar Desert, Bikaner became a lifeline for camel caravans trudging along the legendary Silk Road. And guess what? Camels are still the stars of the show there!
Once you arrive in Bikaner, you'll be transferred to your accommodation and grab some breakfast before you head out for the day to explore Camel Country.
Get ready for an incredible and bumpy ride you’ll never forget, a Jeep safari in the desert! You will cruise through local villages, marvel at towering sand dunes, and maybe spot some desert wildlife along the way. Afterwards, you'll visit the Camel Research Centre. Bikaner is home to some of the world’s best riding camels and one of the world’s largest camel research and breeding farms. You'll finish the day with a delicious dinner before getting some well-deserved rest.
Day 12 : City Walk And Overnight Train To Delhi
Location: Bikaner
Accommodation: overnight train
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a free morning, you'll check out and head into the centre of Bikaner for an old city walking tour. The tour offers a journey through the historic heart of the city. Wander through narrow, winding alleys that weave their way through Bikaner's old quarter, revealing centuries-old architecture, bustling markets, and hidden gems at every turn. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local bazaars, where you can browse colorful stalls selling everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and traditional sweets. Visit artisan workshops where skilled craftsmen practice age-old crafts such as pottery, carpet weaving, and jewelry making, providing insights into Bikaner's rich artistic traditions.
After dinner tonight you will be taking an overnight train to Delhi.
Day 13 : Transfer From Railway Station To Hotel And Final India Dinner
Location: New Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Double/Twin Rooms The Florence Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
On your arrival in Delhi, you will be transferred from the train station to your final hotel.
You will have the afternoon free to do as you please before meeting with your group to enjoy your final dinner in India.
Day 14 : Let's Go To Nepal!
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: Flock Hostel or similar in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning you will be transferred to Delhi Airport for your included flight to Kathmandu. Say goodbye India and hello Nepal!
Upon arrival in Nepal, you will be greeted at the airport and begin the final part of your Expedition tour in Kathmandu, the vibrant and colorful capital teeming with life. After a day of travel you will be ready for another warm welcome dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant in Thamel Bazaar, where you'll indulge in local flavors amid the buzz of this cultural hotspot.
Day 15 : Exploring Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu Durbar Square
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: Flock Hostel or similar in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Dinner
Explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu on your included city tour, where ancient traditions meet modern life. You'll explore the iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square, marveling at its architecture and historic palaces. Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, for serene spiritual vibes and panoramic city views. Don't miss Patan Durbar Square, famous for its exquisite temples and artisan shops.
You'll end your day with a unique cooking demonstration and dinner at Seven Women, a social enterprise devoted to empowering marginalised women through education and employment opportunities. Savor the flavors of authentic Nepalese cuisine while supporting a meaningful cause.
Day 16 : Journey To Chitwan National Park
Location: Chitwan National Park
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Safari Adventure Lodge or similar in Chitwan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, after breakfast, you'll travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chitwan National Park, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife including rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and over 500 species of birds. Widely recognised as one of the best national parks in Asia, Chitwan offers a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Settle into your comfortable accommodation, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. In the evening, relax and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of this extraordinary place.
Day 17 : Chitwan Jungle Adventures
Location: Chitwan National Park
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Safari Adventure Lodge or similar in Chitwan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Chitwan with a series of captivating jungle activities. After breakfast, you'll start your morning with a one-hour jungle walk, where you can observe the rich flora and fauna up close. Next up is a 45-minute canoe ride along the tranquil river, offering a unique perspective of the park's diverse ecosystem. In the afternoon, gear up for a 4-hour jeep safari, providing plenty of opportunities to spot the park's incredible wildlife, including rhinos, tigers, and a variety of exotic birds. Chitwan is one of the few places in the world where you might witness rhinos roaming the streets of the town, showcasing the unique coexistence of humans and wildlife in this region.
Day 18 : Gateway To The Himalayas: Pokhara
Location: Pokhara
Accommodation: Homestay
Accommodation Name: Beli Guest House or similar in Pokhara
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will journey to Pokhara, an enchanting lakeside city, also known as the Gateway to the Himalayas. Nestled in the foothills of the Annapurna range, Pokhara offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. After settling into your new accommodation you'll be taken on an evening orientation walk around the tranquil waters of Phewa Lake, visit the Tal Barahi Temple, explore charming fisherman villages, and wander through vibrant local bazaars filled with colorful handicrafts and delicious street food. Take a moment to enjoy the stunning reflection of the surrounding mountains on the lake's surface as you immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 19 : Trekking To Australian Camp
Location: Australian Camp Trail head
Accommodation: Homestay
Accommodation Name: Beli Guest House or similar in Pokhara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Set out on a scenic trek to Australian Camp via Dhampus village. This 5-6 hour hike takes you through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountain Range. As you traverse the trails, you'll encounter vibrant local wildlife and experience the rich culture of the indigenous communities.
The trek provides numerous opportunities for photo moments, with stunning vistas at every turn. Whether you're an avid hiker or a nature enthusiast, this journey will captivate you with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It's an experience that will transform your perspective on the world, leaving you with memories you'll cherish forever.
Day 20 : Return To Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will bid farewell to the serene beauty of Pokhara and journey back to Kathmandu. Take a moment to reflect on the vibrant culture, warm-hearted locals, and breathtaking landscapes that have made your Nepali adventure extraordinary. We do not doubt that you will ever forget this incredible week exploring Nepal with One Life.
What's Included
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Accommodation
19 nights of accommodation
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Fully Guided
Your highly trained tour guide, your drivers & your local activity guides
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Meals
18x Breakfast, 3x Lunches & 9x Dinners
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Transport
All transportation (Incl. Day 1 airport transfer) - Tuk tuks, bikes, trains, mini buses, cars & a flight to Kathmandu.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
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Travel Insurance
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Some meals
Mode of Transport
All transportation (Incl. Day 1 airport transfer) - Tuk tuks, bikes, trains, mini buses, cars & a flight to Kathmandu.
Accommodation
19 nights of accommodation
Check out our Q&As
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Where should I fly into and where should i fly out of?
Fly into New Delhi International Airport (DEL). After the tour you should fly home from Tribhuvan International Airport.
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Can I bring a 20kg suitcase on this trip?
We wouldn't recommend bringing more than 15-20kg on this tour as it will be more comfortable for you to carry less.
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Where do we spend the first night on tour?
The Florence Inn Hotel, New Delhi.
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Where does the tour end?
On the final day you will return to Kathmandu in Nepal.
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What is the rooming situation like?
Accommodation on this tour you will be in a hostel, guest houses and a safari lodge in double/twin share rooms. Single upgrade is available.
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What is the age range of the tour?
We have an age range of 18 – 45 years old for our tours. Most of our guests are aged between 21-35 years old, though this range varies to slightly older with certain destinations, and are looking to experience our adventurous “flashpacking” style of travel. Our tours are perfect for people of all different backgrounds to share travel experiences with like-minded conscious fellow travellers.
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Is there safe drinking water in India and Nepal?
In both countries it's generally recommended to drink bottled or purified water, especially for travellers. While some urban areas might have treated tap water that locals can drink safely, the quality and sanitation of water can vary widely across different regions and rural areas. To stay safe, it's best to drink bottled water or use water purification methods such as boiling, filtering, or using water purification tablets or drops. This precaution helps ensure that you have safe drinking water throughout your journey.
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What are travel times like during the trip?
You will take one overnight train during the trip which is about 10-12 hours. The train has comfortable cabins with A/C. The other travel times range between 1-6 hours and are on a combination of buses/trains or your international flight.
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Is there WiFi throughout the trip?
WiFi is available at accommodations during the trip, but it’s not reliable and we would recommend picking up a local SIM card on arrival if you need to be online. In the more remote locations of the trip, connection may be less reliable
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I am applying for my visa and I need a reference and address?
TravelXS, No.416, 4th Floor, Som Datt Champer-II, 9 Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi, 11066. PHONE: +91 114 909 8660
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Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
Yes, we can cater for most dietary requirements. Restaurants and eateries in India and Nepal often offer vegetarian options, and it's usually easy to find delicious and satisfying meals without meat. Please notify us prior to arriving on day 1 so we can arrange this for you.
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Will I be picked up from the airport?
Yes, if you arrive on Day 1 of the tour or if you book a prenight’s stay with us, you will have an airport pickup included with your tour. If you’re arriving earlier, please get in touch with us and we can help you arrange your pickup seperately.
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How much spending money do I need for this tour?
Spending varies from person to person & you'll receive a spending guide in your welcome pack, but $30-40 AUD per day is plenty on average. Tipping is customary in India and Nepal, especially for good service at restaurants around 5-10% of the bill. We usually find it easier if your group leader says how much the tip should be and everyone can pitch in together to form a kitty which will cover you for any hotels or restaurants we visit on tour together.
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How will we get from India to Nepal?
The tour cost includes your international flight from Delhi to Kathmandu including all transfers. The flight will happen on day 14 of the tour. When booking, please ensure your name and full passport details are provided correctly.
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Are India and Nepal safe to travel?
Both India and Nepal are generally a safe and welcoming destination for travellers. It's advisable to stay informed about local customs and respect cultural norms, especially in religious sites. We provide more details about this when you receive your welcome pack.
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How big are your group sizes?
Our groups are capped at 22 people maximum.
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Do I have to have travel insurance to come on a tour?
Travel insurance on all One Life Adventures trips is compulsory and we will check for it on tour, if you do not have travel insurance when you arrive on your tour you will not be able to continue without purchasing it.
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What's the general age range on your tours?
We have an age range of 18 – 45 years of age. Most of our guests are aged between 21-35 years old are looking to experience our adventurous “flashpacking” style of travel. Our tours are perfect for people of different backgrounds to share travel experiences with like-minded fellow travellers.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes, we do. We cannot guarantee single sex rooming arrangements in multi-share accommodation (e.g. shared dormitory hostels), but twin share rooms will always be single sex.
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Free Date Changes
One Life Adventures allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
One Life Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform one life adventures, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
One Life Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 200 AUD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of one life adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.