India & Nepal Adventure

Trip Type: Explorer
India | 20 Days | 1 - 12 People
Starts From:

NZD 5,738.00 /Person

* Sale Price Available

Combine the best of India and Nepal in one superbly comfortable trip. Experience the colour and chaos of Delhi's bazaars and witness displays of fa...

India & Nepal Adventure

Combine the best of India and Nepal in one superbly comfortable trip. Experience the colour and chaos of Delhi's bazaars and witness displays of faith on the burning ghats of Varanasi. Roam the grounds of the iconic Taj Mahal, head out on a jungle safari and listen for the whispering prayer flags of Kathmandu. Throw in temple towns and village visits, lakeside retreats and mountain walks, spiritual moments and local interactions for an unforgettable tour bursting with incredible adventures.

Namaste! Welcome to India. When you arrive at Delhi Airport, you’ll be collected by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure then begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After, feel free to explore lively Delhi at your own pace, perhaps by heading to the Red Fort, the Lotus Temple or Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Later, why not get your new group together to sample of this country’s famed food?

Get your bearings in Delhi by starting your day with a leader-led tour of the oldest part of the city – aptly called Old Delhi. Your leader will help you navigate the metro system so you can explore the impressive Mughal architecture on foot. It’s not Delhi without a traffic jam, so hop aboard a traditional rickshaw and weave your way around the streets surrounding the Chandi Chowk marketplace. Stop by India’s oldest and largest mosque, the Cheraman Jama Masjid, before heading into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara to observe the capital’s spiritual side. Enjoy a traditional Thali lunch with your group before a free evening to wander the city as you wish. Tap into your leader’s local expertise for food and activity recommendations that match your mood.

Board the Agra Express and journey to the city best known for housing one of the Seven Wonders of the World. After you settle into your hotel, head out for lunch in a cafe run by women who have survived acid attacks. After, take in the sights as you head to the Taj Mahal in a rickshaw. A tribute to his belated wife, Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this famous monument in 1632 to house her remains. Stroll through the gardens and learn more about its history at the Museum. You can also sign up to an optional demonstration on hand knotted carpets – a craft that dates to the Mughal era – or explore Agra at your own pace.

If you fell in love with the Taj Mahal yesterday, you can opt to visit again today. There is plenty more to see, like the mosque and its symmetrical jawab building on either side of Main Mausoleum. Then, you will visit Agra Fort. Learn how Akbar built a fortress and prison out of red sandstone in 1565, and then Shah Jahan converted and added to the fort to transform it into a palace. In the afternoon, take a private transport to your next location, the Ranthambore National Park, where you’ll stay for two nights. As this is the longest journey on the trip, your leader will help you secure some snacks and drinks for the ride.

Begin your day with an adrenaline rush by embarking on a morning safari. As one of the biggest national parks in northern India, Ranthambore is home to a huge variety of mammals, birds and reptiles. Although it’s primarily known for housing the Royal Bengal Tigers, you might also be able to spot leopards, sloth bears and crocodiles when you’re cruising along. Enjoy a free afternoon before setting out on safari again in the evening for more wildlife watching.

Stop at a rural village in Sawai Madhopur on your commute to Jaipur and admire the ancient sacred temples erected around the vicinity. When you arrive in Jaipur, also known as the ‘Pink City’ due to its pink buildings, join your leader on an orientation walking tour. The city has been ranked as one of the most pedestrian friendly cities in India so feel safe as you wander through the busy streets and colourful alleyways. After, immerse yourself in the culture by opting to go to a Bollywood movie screening or enjoy some free time this evening.

Your leader will show you around more of Jaipur this morning, maybe starting with the City Palace – a building that wouldn’t look out of place in a Wes Anderson film. Although the royal family of Jaipur still occupy the palace, some gardens and courtyards are open to the public. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish. Perhaps visit Jantar Mantar – an observatory filled with instruments to track the stars, built by the founder of Jaipur, Maharaja Jai Singh. Or you can opt for a hot air balloon ride and gain a whole new perspective on the city.

Explore a lesser-known side of Jaipur by visiting Panna Meena Kund Stepwell. Stepwells like this one were used to collect rainwater, as well as serve as spaces for rituals and gatherings. After, head to the nearby and more well-known Amber Fort, located on a hilltop, giving you a good view of the city. Take in the Rajput and Mughal architectural styles as you explore the various halls and palaces on the grounds with a local guide. Don’t miss the sparkling Mirror Palace – covered floor-to-ceiling in thousands of reflective tiles, the hall becomes a dazzling fantasy with the light of a single match. Then, enjoy the afternoon exploring more of Jaipur and discovering anything you may have missed yesterday. Finish your day with a cooking class in a local home and tuck into your traditional homemade food for dinner with your group.

Head back to Delhi this morning in a private transfer. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. There are plenty of sites you may have missed the first time around, like Humayun’s Tomb – a garden tomb dating back to 1570 – or Qutb Minar, the highest tower in India. Your leader can help you book any activities you wish to do. In the evening, perhaps gather your group together for a farewell dinner, where you can reminisce about your Indian adventure.

Namaste! Welcome to Nepal. Arrive in Kathmandu and take your complimentary airport transfer to the hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. The evening is free to explore the streets of Kathmandu, whose mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and rich artistic and cultural heritage means it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life, and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats, and sacred cows. You may like to join your leader and group for an optional dinner at one of Kathmandu's fine Nepali restaurants.

Weather permitting, you'll have the option to take a Mount Everest scenic flight this morning. This experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, getting up close to Mount Everest. After breakfast, you'll explore Kathmandu, visiting Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here you'll see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. You'll also visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the most significant Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. After lunch, it's time to explore Swayambhunath Temple (the Monkey Temple). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the city's most famous temples and fascinatingly reflects Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. From here, you'll head to Durbar Square, which sits at the front of the old royal palace. You'll get a chance to admire the beautiful temples and browse the stalls of merchant's wares. The evening is yours to explore the city as you wish.

Today you'll leave your hotel early and hit the road to Pokhara in a private vehicle. Time to relax after you arrive. If you wish, you can stroll around and take in the views of the lake (Phewa Tal), which is the second largest in Nepal. If you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Himalayan Mountain chain to the north. When you arrive, take a scenic boat ride across the lake of Phewa Tal – the second largest lake in Nepal.You can stretch your legs and check out Taal Barahi temple in the middle of the lake or simply admire the views from the boat. Visit the Peace Pagoda for excellent views of the mountains including the Annapurnas, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and a glimpse back across to Pokhara. Then, head to the International Mountain Museum, which is full of fascinating tales and exploits from climbing expeditions of the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. Enjoy a free evening, perhaps asking your leader for their favourite lakeside restaurant to visit for dinner.

If you're an early riser, you'll have the option to wake up early and enjoy the sunrise over Sarangkot Hill this morning. Then, after breakfast and some time at leisure,you'll head to a local Tibetan Refugee Camp for lunch. You'll hear stories of their journey from Tibet to Nepal, learn about local life and take part in a traditional cooking demonstration to find out how to make delicious momos (steamed dumplings). Of course, you'll sit down for a group lunch and tuck into the fruits of your labour.

Today you'll travel to Bandipur by private vehicle. This traditional Nepalese town is a natural treasure and one of the country's hidden gems. Bandipur was once an essential stop for traders travelling to Tibet, and the town's single main street is still lined with buildings that once housed a wide variety of merchants. Many of the buildings have been converted now, but their architecture remains. Enjoy a peaceful stay in this charming, rural location.

Enjoy a day of free time to explore Bandipur further. The surrounding hills are ideal for hiking along trails that will take you through tribal villages and hilltop shrines that once doubled as fortresses. Bandipur is saddled on a high ridge above Dumre, making for an exceptional view of the Himalayan panorama. You may prefer to visit the town's temples or relax with a coffee and a spectacular view.

After breakfast, you'll drive to Chitwan National Park. After arriving and settling in, you'll be introduced to the camp staff and resident naturalists, who'll discuss the activities for the upcoming days. In the early evening, the local Tharu dance troupe may perform a cultural program. You'll enjoy dinner as a group and then the evening will be all yours – maybe relax in the bar and discuss the day's animal sightings or listen to the stirrings of the jungle at night.

Embark on an early-morning jeep safari in search of the great Indian rhino, deer and exotic birdlife or joining one of the other activities available to explore the park (the safari will either happen on day 7 or Day 8, depending on the hotel staff's schedule). After breakfast, you’ll leave the lodge and go on a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This is an exciting trip with chances to catch a glimpse of marsh mugger crocodiles and various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. A program will be organised for the rest of the day and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.

If you’re an avid wildlife lover, an optional early-morning birdwatching safari is available today – a worthwhile addition to your trip. After breakfast, drive along the Trisuli River to Bhaktapur and enjoy a stop along the riverbank for lunch. Bhaktapur was once the capital of Nepal and the Great Malla Kingdom during the 15th century. Its rich heritage, inspiring temples and artisanal history played a big part in Bhaktapur being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an evening of exploration on your own, soak up the lovely atmosphere in one of the local cafes, or simply relax in your hotel.

Spend the morning exploring Bhaktapur's famous temples, starting at Durbar Square, which is said to be the most beautiful piece of art in Nepal. Durbar Square is home to the majestic Lion Gate and Golden Gate.  You 'll also visit the Yakcheswor Mahadev Temple- a replica of Pashupatinath Temple in Bhaktapur. In the afternoon, drive to Kathmandu. The evening is yours to spend as you wish – your group may like to head out for an optional final dinner as your Nepal adventure comes to an end.

Your trip officially comes to an end after breakfast today. If you would like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

Meals
18 Breakfast(s), 4 Lunch(s), 4 Dinner(s)

Transport
Auto rickshaw , Boat , Cycle rickshaw , Metro , Plane , Private vehicle , Bus

Accommodation
Hotel (15 nights), Guesthouse (3 nights), Lodge (2 nights)

Included Activities
  • Complimentary Arrival Transfer
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
  • Delhi - Thali Lunch at Suruchi
  • Delhi - Jama Masjid (Shoe Keeper)
  • Agra - Taj Mahal
  • Agra - Sheroes Cafe Visit
  • Agra - Agra Fort
  • Ranthambhore National Park - Morning Wildlife Safari
  • Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari
  • Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Jaipur - Walk to a rural village (Sawai Madhopur) on the way to Jaipur
  • Jaipur - Orientation walk with a local guide
  • Jaipur - Cooking Class with Dinner
  • Jaipur - Amber Fort
  • Jaipur- Panna Meena Kund Stepwell Visit
  • Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
  • Kathmandu - Boudhanath Stupa and Monastery visit
  • Kathmandu - Durbar Square
  • Kathmandu - Swayambhunath Temple
  • Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip
  • Pokhara - Tibetan community visit with momo lunch
  • Pokhara - Sunrise from Sarangkot Hill
  • Pokhara - International Mountain Museum
  • Bandipur Day Trip
  • Village Tour, Sunset view & Tipical Tharu Stick Dance(Cultural Show Around 30 Minute)
  • Canoe Ride & Jeep Safari at The Chitwan National Park
  • Chitwan NP - Bird watching tour
  • Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour
  • Soak up the unique atmosphere of a candle flower ceremony at dusk on the Ganges River in Varanasi, then wake up early for a sunrise boat ride, where you’ll watch the light gradually illuminate the many ghats and temples along the river.
  • Explore the Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – and learn of its lesser-known poetic history from a local expert among the surrounding gardens.
  • Take a jeep safari with a local guide in Chitwan National Park – a beauty brimming with exotic wildlife – and you may be lucky enough to spot rhinos or elusive leopards and tigers.
  • Visit a Tibetan refugee camp and get to know the community before taking on a cooking demonstration to learn how to create traditional momos (steamed dumplings).
  • By travelling on this trip, you'll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Forget Me Not. Donations help them provide job training, work experience and employment opportunities for young people who've grown up in institutionalised Nepalese orphanages.
  • Don’t underestimate the weather at any time of year in India. In the summer months, the heat can be extreme. In winter, some travellers have been surprised by the cool evenings. A hat, sunscreen, and clothing that can be layered will serve you well year-round. This trip has some early starts, allowing you to see more of the country in the captivating morning light. Please refer to the Itinerary for more details. Flights and trains in India can be delayed between December and February due to fog. This trip does not go to high altitudes, so if this was keeping you back from visiting Nepal in the past, this trip is for you. While on a map you aren't travelling particularly far, the reality of road travel ais that things always take longer than you expect. Some roads will be bumpy, dusty or even unexpectedly blocked requiring reroutes and plenty of patience. Hotels in some destinations may vary in standard and facilities, and hot water may occasionally be limited. There will be times when the location of our accommodation will mean it is practical to eat at the hotel restaurant rather than heading out for optional meals. While there will be opportunities to spot many different kinds of wildlife, sightings cannot be guaranteed. You will see tour operators offering elephant riding activities and many tourists taking part in them during your time in Chitwan. Intrepid Travel has a strong elephant welfare policy and as such we discourage travellers from riding elephants in Nepal or anywhere around the world. Please refer to the 'Responsible Travel' section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

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Finishing

Availability

Price:
NZD 6,040.00 NZD 5,738.00

Price:
NZD 6,040.00 NZD 5,738.00

Price:
NZD 6,040.00 NZD 5,738.00

Price:
NZD 6,040.00 NZD 5,738.00

Price:
NZD 6,040.00 NZD 5,738.00

Price:
NZD 6,100.00 NZD 5,795.00
Provided by
Intrepid Travel
Reference Code:
HHKWC
Trip Location
Trip Starts:
Delhi, India
Trip Finishes:
Kathmandu, Nepal
Countries Visited:
India
Nepal
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Destination Details
India | 20 Days | 1 - 12 People

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