Best of India and Nepal
Best of India and Nepal
Best of India and Nepal
14 Days Starting in Kathmandu, Nepal and ending in Varanasi, India
Visiting: Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Varanasi
Tour operator:
Tour code:
INNEN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes of India and Nepal with the "Best of India and Nepal" tour. Begin your adventure in Kathmandu, exploring its spiritual shrines and temples, before diving into the rich cultural tapestry of Delhi, Jaipur, and Varanasi. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and the Amber Fort, and experience the thrill of a safari in Ranthambore National Park. Engage with local communities through unique experiences, such as a guided walk with former street children in Delhi and a visit to a traditional silk weaving village in Varanasi. Savor authentic flavors with a home-cooked meal in Jaipur and witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony on the Ganges. This tour promises a deep dive into the heart of these two incredible countries, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Soaltee
Accommodation Name: Hotel Crowne Imperial
Meals Included: Dinner
Keep a keen eye out for the rainbow-colored prayer flags flapping in the wind as your transfer from Kathmandu Airport takes you to your hotel. Spirituality is the cornerstone of Nepalese culture, and this is revealed in the many shrines and temples that dot its capital, which you'll get to explore in the coming days. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Day 2: Stupas And Temples Of Kathmandu And Patan Make Travel Matter
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Soaltee
Accommodation Name: Hotel Crowne Imperial
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your first stop today is the UNESCO-listed shrine of Swayambhunath. Uncover its history spanning millennia. Admire the galleries of prayer mills and gleaming white stupa, whose gilded spire provides the colorful eyes of Buddha a lofty vantage point from which to survey the surrounding valley. Share the intricately carved stone façades with the resident monkeys and admire the artistry of Nepalese craftsmanship. You'll see all this as you walk through the remnants of Buddhist and Hindu iconography, said to be around 2000 years old. Proceed to the heart of the old town and Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will gain a deeper understanding of its role in the centuries of rule over this mountain kingdom. See the traditional pagoda-style architecture reflected in the temples and palaces that surround the square – the Hanuman Dhoka palace complex, the Mahadev Temple, the House of the Goddess Kumari and Taleju Temple. After some free time for lunch, journey to nearby Patan, renowned for its collection of ancient temples, carvings and palaces, which you will see first-hand during a visit to Patan Durbar Square, a generic name given to plazas and areas located opposite Nepal's old royal palaces. Delve into the ancient Buddhist heritage of the City of Beauty and visit the Krishna Temple and Golden Temple. Later, MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during your visit to the Tibetan Refugee Camp, which features a handicraft center and provides shelter to the families of Tibetan refugees who fled the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1959. Among these were gifted Tibetan carpet weavers whose talents remain on display today at the Jawalakhel Handicraft Center. You could choose to buy some of the traditional Tibetan handicrafts as a memento of your trip. Then it’s back to Kathmandu for a well-deserved evening at leisure.
Day 3: Explore Kathmandu Dive Into Culture
Location: Bhaktapur
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Soaltee
Accommodation Name: Hotel Crowne Imperial
Meals Included: Breakfast
The UNESCO-listed city of Bhaktapur and its impressive Durbar Square are the main attractions today. While the city is rebuilding its fallen temples, it remains a cultural center. Stroll along narrow alleys and admire artisans at work. Watch how they weave cloth, carve timber and make pottery, which dries in all its terracotta brilliance in open squares for all to admire. Dive Into Culture and join a local potter for a workshop to learn how Bhaktapur has been a pottery center for centuries. You'll see first-hand how traditional techniques are still used. Large spinning wheels are coaxed into action with a long stick and the rapid stirring of the talented potters to shape all sorts of ceramics out of lumps of clay. Get your hands dirty and hone your own pottery talents as you make your own creation to take home as a memento of your visit. If you have time, stop in one of the squares and sample the famous Juju Dhau, Newari yoghurt treat, enjoyed in a ‘takeaway’ pottery bowl. Later, return to the hotel and enjoy some free time. You could consider joining an Optional Experience to witness a poignant Aarti ceremony at Pashupatinath Temple on the banks of the Bagmati River.
Day 4: Kathmandu To Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Le Meridien New Delhi, The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza CBD Shahdara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your soulful encounter with Nepal at its end, but your journey through India is just beginning. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Delhi. India's vibrant capital extends a lively welcome, launching an unforgettable experience through northern India’s most exquisite sights. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner.
Day 5: Discover The Delights Of Old Delhi Dive Into Culture
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Le Meridien New Delhi, The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza CBD Shahdara
Meals Included: Breakfast
Savor the scents of spice as you embark on an exhilarating rickshaw ride, navigating the busy streets of Old Delhi. See the Red Fort, a sandstone fortress which once housed the emperors of the Mughal dynasty for centuries. Next, Dive Into Culture as you ride through the colorful Chandni Chowk market and watch it come to life as the day's trading begins amidst the sounds of enthusiastic salesmen and endless traffic. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Admire its ornate façades before boarding a waiting vehicle to drive to Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Pay tribute to this beloved figurehead, who led the campaign for India’s independence from Britain. You’ll come face-to-face with the site where he was cremated following his assassination in 1948. Today the simple square platform of black marble is surrounded by a tranquil park, befitting of its status as a place of contemplation. Your next stop is Agrasen Ki Baoli, one of the most noteworthy stepwells in Delhi. Hidden amidst the cacophony of Delhi’s streets and business towers, this ancient water reservoir rises from the depths of the earth to stand atop 103 stone steps. Spend a few moments of serenity amidst its centuries-old ornate arches before returning to your hotel for an afternoon of leisure or consider one of our Optional Experiences.
Day 6: See The Sights Of Delhi Make Travel Matter
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Le Meridien New Delhi, The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza CBD Shahdara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, embark on a guided walking tour to discover the work done by the Salaam Baalak Trust, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This non-profit organization that aims to provide a caring environment for street children. Later, we'll walk through the bazaar of Paharganj, rubbing shoulders with the locals who flock to the market to shop everyday. Escape the noise and head to New Delhi, designed and built by the British in the 1920s. Your first stop here is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb, the earliest example of Mughal architecture in India. Recently renovated with the gardens restored to their former glory, you’ll see first-hand why it served as the inspiration for the design of the famous Taj Mahal. Enjoy local flavors for lunch at a restaurant near India Gate, then head to the Qutub Minar complex, also a UNESCO listed site. This fluted ‘Victory Tower’ is decorated with elaborate inscriptions, geometric carvings and elegant balconies. Returning to your hotel later, drive past Lutyens' Delhi to view the elegant colonial façades leading British architect Edwin Lutyens left behind on the cityscape. You'll have the rest of the afternoon at leisure, or perhaps join one of our Optional Experiences.
Day 7: Sunset At The Taj Mahal
Location: Agra
Accommodation: Double Tree by Hilton
Accommodation Name: Saura Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s time to leave Delhi behind, bound for the Uttar Pradesh city of Agra. There are many reasons to love Agra and its own ‘monument to love’, the Taj Mahal, is perhaps the most captivating of all. Marvel at its elegant marble façades awash with the sunset's rose and golden hues. Admire this well-preserved landmark from all sides and take time to contemplate the magnificence of this man-made wonder before re-joining your fellow travelers. This evening, you could choose to end a memorable day at an optional sound and light show prior to dinner.
Day 8: From The Taj To The Tigers
Location: Ranthambore
Accommodation: Anuraga Palace
Accommodation Name: The Sher Garh
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
There’s more to Agra than the Taj Mahal as you’ll come to discover this morning during your visit to the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort. Stroll through the chambers of a 17th-century royal residence which served as the principal residence of the influential Mughal emperors until the capital was moved to Delhi. Continue to the long-deserted ‘Ghost Town’ of Fatehpur Sikri, built at great expense by Emperor Akbar in 1569 only to be abandoned soon afterwards due to a lack of water. The city remains beautifully preserved, albeit with an air of melancholy – a rusty-red sandstone masterpiece devoid of inhabitants. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Bharatpur. Then, appreciate first-hand a quintessential travel experience in India as you board a train bound for Ranthambore, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.
Day 9: Roam Ranthambore In Search Of Tigers
Location: Ranthambore
Accommodation: Anuraga Palace
Accommodation Name: The Sher Garh
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start the day with an early morning visit to Ranthambore National Park, which was once the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Before the heat of the day sets in and the wilderness awakens, keep a keen eye out for the resident animals and birdlife that find sanctuary here. Have your camera ready in case the park’s tigers make a brief appearance. Return to your hotel for a late breakfast, followed by some time to relax, or to join an Optional Experience. After lunch there’s another opportunity to explore the park for a glimpse of the various species of bird and wildlife on your second game drive of the day. Dinner is served at your hotel.
Day 10: Onwards To Jaipur Dive Into Culture
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Hilton
Accommodation Name: Club Mahindra Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue your journey to Jaipur, the Pink City. After some free time for lunch, join a workshop on hand-block printing, one of the most famous traditional art forms of Rajasthan. A Local Specialist will show you the tricks of the trade as you observe how the prints are handmade using small wooden blocks and hone your own block-printing skills. Later, Dive Into Culture and see the talents of local craftspeople on display during a visit to a local market. Admire the colorful textiles and perhaps buy a memento or two to take home. Jaipur is particularly renowned for its embroidery and blue pottery. This evening, join a local family for an exclusive Be My Guest dinner in their home and savor some of the regional delicacies.
Day 11: Explore Colorful Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Hilton
Accommodation Name: Club Mahindra Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
One of today's highlights is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort. But first, stop to admire the red and pink façades of the Palace of Winds, whose latticed windows once revealed the outside world to the sheltered ladies of the royal household. Continue with a visit to the ornate City Palace, an impressive complex of buildings from different eras and gardens in the heart of the Old City. Enjoy some time for lunch before visiting the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Observatory, featuring the world's largest sundial. Later, perhaps join our optional Aarti ceremony, offering a blessing to one of the Hindu deities and hopefully receiving one in return. This evening, we'll toast to shared memories over a delicious local Farewell Dinner with those guests ending their journey in Jaipur.
Day 12: Venutre To Varanasi Dive Into Culture Make Travel Matter
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation: Madin
Accommodation Name: Madin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart Jaipur this morning and board your included flight to embark on a pilgrimage to the sacred city of Varanasi to explore the city's role as the center of Hindu religion. There’s a palpable sense that life begins and ends on the shores of Ganga Mata (Mother Ganges), but local spirituality extends beyond the sacred waters of the river. The city is also renowned for its ancient temples and old ghats that lead down to the river. You’ll see all this and more, but first there’s free time for lunch before the sightseeing. Next, experience a rural way of life during a walk around Weavers Village, where a Local Specialist reveals the centuries-old silk weaving tradition. Your visit during this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience will help the community’s efforts to keep this extraordinary tradition alive. You'll see first-hand how the talented weavers create beautiful silk fabrics. These are used to make the famous Banarasi silk saris, highly sought after for weddings and other special occasions. Later this evening, feed your soul as you cruise down the River Ganges to witness the ritual of Aarti. Watch as the delicate diya, laden with candles and tiny flowers, float down the river. After this poignant ritual, return to the hotel for dinner.
Day 13: Witness Local Life Along The Ganges
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation: Madin
Accommodation Name: Madin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Admire the changing light as the sun rises over the Ganges, and the sights and sounds of Varanasi come to life along the banks of the river. Observe locals taking their morning bath in the holy water and worshipping the rising sun. Afterwards explore the city on foot, the best way to immerse yourself in the day-to-day of the oldest living city of the world. You’ll have an opportunity to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi's main temple. Demolished and rebuilt many times over its history, the temple is a sight to behold with its towering spire and domes made of pure gold. Return to your hotel for breakfast and some free time. Perhaps choose to join our Optional Experience to watch a live performance of Indian classical dances known as Kathak. This afternoon, visit Sarnath, one of the four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Explore the spectacular collection of Buddhist artefacts dating back to the 3rd century BC and see the Lion Capital of Ashoka with its inverted lotus carving, adopted as the national emblem of India. Continue to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 14: Farewell Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your spiritual and cultural encounter with India at its end, it's time to bid farewell to Varanasi. Take a transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at various hotels including Hotel Crowne Imperial, Park Plaza CBD Shahdara, Saura Hotel, The Sher Garh, Club Mahindra Resort, and Madin.
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Meals
Enjoy 13 breakfasts, 6 dinners, 3 lunches, 1 Be My Guest dinner, and 1 Farewell Dinner.
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Guided Tours
Experience guided tours in cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi, and Kathmandu.
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Cultural Experiences
Participate in cultural experiences such as a rickshaw ride in Old Delhi, a pottery workshop in Bhaktapur, and a hand-block printing workshop in Jaipur.
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Transportation
Includes flights from Kathmandu to Delhi and Jaipur to Varanasi, as well as a train journey from Bharatpur to Ranthambore.
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Sightseeing
Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Amber Fort, and Swayambhunath.
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Make Travel Matter Experiences
Engage in experiences that support local communities, such as visiting the Tibetan Refugee Camp and Weavers Village.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as the Aarti ceremony at Pashupatinath Temple and live performances of Indian classical dances are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into India and Nepal are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Dining Summary
- 13 Breakfast (B)
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 3 Lunch (L)
- 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
- 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
Dive Into Culture
- Delhi: Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi.
- Jaipur: Visit a local market in Jaipur.
- Bhaktapur: Observe the skills of a master pottery at a pottery workshop in Bhaktapur.
Mode of Transport
Travel through India and Nepal with ease, utilizing a combination of flights, trains, and local transportation, including exhilarating rickshaw rides and guided walking tours, ensuring a seamless and immersive journey through these vibrant countries.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and luxury at the Hotel Crowne Imperial in Kathmandu, Park Plaza CBD Shahdara in Delhi, Saura Hotel in Agra, The Sher Garh in Ranthambore, Club Mahindra Resort in Jaipur, and Madin in Varanasi, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour to make travel matter?
The tour includes a visit to the Tibetan Refugee Camp in Patan, where you can see traditional Tibetan handicrafts and learn about the community's efforts to preserve their culture. In Delhi, you'll participate in a guided walking tour with the Salaam Baalak Trust, which supports street children. In Varanasi, you'll visit Weavers Village to learn about the centuries-old silk weaving tradition.
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What cultural activities can I expect during the tour?
You will have the opportunity to take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi, participate in a pottery workshop in Bhaktapur, and join a hand-block printing workshop in Jaipur. Additionally, you will experience a traditional Aarti ceremony on the River Ganges in Varanasi.
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Are there any special dining experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a 'Be My Guest' dinner with a local family in Jaipur, where you can savor regional delicacies. There is also a Farewell Dinner in Jaipur to celebrate the journey.
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What wildlife experiences are included in the itinerary?
The tour includes two game drives in Ranthambore National Park, where you can search for tigers and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
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What are some of the historical sites visited during the tour?
You will visit several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Swayambhunath Stupa and Durbar Square in Kathmandu, Humayun's Tomb and Qutub Minar in Delhi, the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra, and the Amber Fort in Jaipur. Additionally, you will explore the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri and the Buddhist site of Sarnath.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 trafalgar 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.
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Terms and Conditions