Compare Highlights of Northern India & Nepal by Exodus Travels vs Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu by Globus
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5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 15 days | 16 days |
| Price From | $ 3,075 | $ 4,789 |
| Price Per Day | $ 205 | $ 299 |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
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| Meals Included | All breakfasts, two lunches and two dinners are included. You should allow the equivalent of US$24 per day for other meals. You can eat out very cheaply in India and Nepal, but if you go to more expensive restaurants, you will spend more than the suggested amount. In most towns there is a good choice between Indian, Chinese and Western food. If you are a vegetarian, India and Nepal are probably two of the best destinations you can visit. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A (large!) bottle of beer is approximately US$4.80. Drinking water will be provided in large containers in our vehicle, so please bring a refillable water bottle with you. Where meals are not included, the leader will encourage people to try certain restaurants and street food vendors. They can make recommendations that will boost small businesses and celebrate local specialties. In India, we can even see how some food and drinks, such as masala chai (tea), samosa (mashed potato snacks), jalebe (Indian doughnuts) and lassi (yoghurt drink), are made. | N/A |
| Description |
Embark on one of the most beautiful journeys in Asia, from the bustling cities of the Indian plains to the highest mountains on Earth. Along the way, we'll experience cultural wonders of the region, including the Taj Mahal, pink city of Jaipur and holy city of Varanasi, and follow in the footsteps of Buddha, visiting the sacred sites of Sarnath and Lumbini. That's complemented by soul-enriching natural experiences, including scanning Chitwan National Park for rhinos and gazing at the mighty Himalaya.Explore buzzing cities, sacred sites and natural marvels on an adventure from Delhi to Kathmandu |
Start your journey in bustling Mumbai. Witness its tiffin lunch box delivery system, and visit the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. Next, travel to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities, to witness the striking Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River.How do you express your eternal devotion to the love of your life? Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan enlisted the help of more than 20,000 workers and 1,000 elephants to erect a towering white marble mausoleum dedicated to his wife who died during childbirth. A sunrise visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the New7Wonders of the World, is just the beginning of your love affair with India. Beyond India’s most sparkling jewel lies a priceless gem mine of experiences you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Hop in a rickshaw for a ride through Delhi’s centuries-old Chandni Chowk bazaar, sit down for traditional Indian cuisine in the home of a noble family in Jaipur, and embark on three thrilling open-air safari game drives through Ranthambore National Park in search of marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and the elusive Bengal tiger. Next, you’ll travel to fascinating Kathmandu, Nepal. Enjoy guided sightseeing in Nepal’s iconic capital city, including a visit to the historic seat of royalty at Hanuman Dhoka. Visit the residence of the Living Goddess at Temple of Kumari, and travel to Bouddhanath—one of the world’s largest stupas and the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Marvel at the Hindu and Buddhist sites in Patan’s Durbar Square. A mosaic of memories awaits on this radiant tour of India and Nepal. |
Day 1 Arrive Delhi; afternoon sightseeing of Humayun's Tomb and New Delhi
We meet as a group for the first time at the hotel. In the afternoon, we start to explore the city beginning with New Delhi, visiting the tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun, which was built by his widow Hamida Banu Begam and is now a Unesco World Heritage site. We then drive past fine colonial buildings in New Delhi, including Rashtrapati Bhawan, a 320-acre (130ha) estate built by British architect Edwin Lutyens in 1931, which comprises the official residence of the President of India; Parliament House; and India Gate, a memorial dedicated to soldiers who died during the First World War. We return to the hotel for a free evening. Accommodation: Hotel Pooja Palace (or similar)
Day 2 Morning tour of Old Delhi before drive to Jaipur
After breakfast, we continue our exploration of the capital. We start outside the Jama Masjid (the largest mosque in India) before being guided through the narrow streets of old Delhi, through the Kinari Bazzar (or we can explore by rickshaw – additional cost). We finish the Old Delhi tour at Jama Masjid and learn about the history of the building. If interested, you can enter the mosque (fees may be applicable). In the early afternoon, we drive (approximately five to seven hours, depending on traffic) to the pink city of Jaipur. Accommodation: Lilypool - The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar)
Day 3 Full-day sightseeing in Jaipur, including City Palace and Amber Fort; evening free
Enjoy a full day to explore Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and one of the most attractive and colourful cities in India. Built in the late 18th century, it is a planned city of broad sandstone avenues that were later painted pink. First, we visit the City Palace, once a Maharaja residence and now a museum containing rare manuscripts, paintings, royal garments and weapons. Close to the palace is one of the most intriguing sites in India, Jantar Mantar (Jaipur Observatory), an assembly of immense marble-and-brass astronomical instruments in a pleasant garden. We will also see the impressive landmark, the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). We then travel just outside the main city to the Amber Palace, an imposing hilltop fort above a lake with large courtyards, finely decorated interiors and a Chamber of Mirrors. The evening is free for you to explore. You could take this opportunity to pick up a gift or two for home: Jaipur is a centre of many handicrafts, including durries (woven rugs), carpets, printed cloth, semi-precious stones and leatherwear. Accommodation: Lilypool - The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar)
Day 4 Drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri
We begin by driving to Agra via the deserted ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri. Formally the capital of the Mughal Empire, this wonderfully preserved ghost town was constructed by Emperor Akbar between 1570 and 1585 and reflects his ideals in art, religion and architecture. This impressive and well-preserved citadel became his capital in 1571, after the blessing of a local Moslem holy man correctly predicted the birth of a longed-for son, his successor the Emperor Jehangir. The mosque, designed to hold 10,000 worshippers, the palaces, residences and halls of audience, are built in decorative red sandstone. Akbar soon left Fatehpur Sikri to secure his outlying territories, leaving this city much as we see it today. The site is one of the most atmospheric in northern India and its position on a ridge overlooking the modern village below, and its wonderful state of preservation, give us a taste of this city's majestic past. Accommodation: Taj Vilas (or similar)
Day 5 Sunrise at Taj Mahal; visit the Red Fort; overnight train to Varanasi
We rise very early to see the incredible spectacle of sunrise over the Taj Mahal. The Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built the landmark in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. The New World Wonder is serenely beautiful and never fails to amaze; the white-marble exterior changes colour according to the position of the sun and is made even more beautiful by the rich interior detail. Within striking distance is the imposing Red Fort of Akbar, whose mighty sandstone walls enclose the white-marble Pearl Mosque and the palaces, halls, courtyards and fountains of his sons and successors, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. It is here that the latter spent his last years, imprisoned by his own son Aurangzeb. Agra is also a hub for a wide variety of handicrafts including jewellery, inlaid and carved marble, carpets and clothes and there should be time for shopping. In the evening, we head to Tundla station to catch our overnight train to Varanasi. Accommodation: Sleeper train
Day 6 Arrive Varanasi; afternoon visit to Sarnath, the site of Buddha's first sermon
On arrival in Varanasi, we transfer to our hotel. Please note, rooms may not be available until midday but efforts are made to make it earlier if possible. In the afternoon, we visit the nearby Sarnath Temple. Sarnath is as sacred to Buddhists as Varanasi is to Hindus. The main monument at Saranath is the Dhamekh Stupa, the very spot where Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon. The evening free. Accommodation: Hotel Surya (or similar)
Day 7 Dawn boat ride on Ganges visiting bathing 'ghats'; free afternoon; witness an evening aarti ceremony
Varanasi, on the Ganges, is one of the holiest cities in India and stands at the centre of Hinduism: there are thousands of pilgrims, wandering holy men (Sadhus), religious leaders and casual visitors. Immerse yourself by exploring the narrow lanes and many temples or watching the Hindu ceremonies that take place around the clock. Just before dawn, we take a boat onto the Ganges to see the extraordinary ghats (the steps leading down to the river). Every day, thousands of Hindu pilgrims come to this 3mi (5km) stretch to submerge themselves in the holy waters of the river. In the evening, you can witness an aarti ceremony from the banks. Accommodation: Hotel Surya (or similar)
Day 8 Cross border to Nepal; to the Unesco World Heritage site of Lumbini
We board our private bus and make an early departure for Nepal. We drive across the northern plains, passing through a few towns and lots of villages. At the border, we leave our bus and walk (approximately 1,640ft/500m) through customs and immigration to Nepal. In Nepal, we enter the terai, the narrow plain running along the southern breadth of the country. We drive (approximately one hour) to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, where we spend the night. The total driving time today is approximately 12 hours. Accommodation: Buddha Maya hotel (or similar)
Day 9 Drive to Chitwan National Park
Early this morning there is a short (optional) rickshaw ride around Lumbini gardens. Buddha was born here and the area is being developed into a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists from all over the world. Travelling east and parallel to the mountains, we reach Chitwan (approximately a four-hour drive), where we spend two nights. The park, with jungle and thick forest, was once a royal hunting ground and was made a conservation area in 1973. During your stay, you can enjoy an optional ox-cart ride in Tharu village or an evening dance performance; both providing a glimpse into the fascinating lives of the local people. Accommodation: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar)
Day 10 Chitwan National park; jeep safari and dug-out canoe excursion
Chitwan National Park and the surrounding forest cover 356sqmi (923sqkm) of the terai and afford excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities. Here you have an excellent chance of seeing Indian one-horned rhinos, sambar and chital deer, langur and rhesus monkeys, mongooses, jackals, otters and crocodiles. The more elusive animals include tigers, leopards, sloth bears and Indian bison. More than 500 bird species have also been recorded in this area. Wildlife activities are managed and escorted by experienced naturalist guides and included in your stay is a jeep safari and dug-out canoe excursion. Birdwatching outings can also be organised. Accommodation: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar)
Day 11 Drive to Pokhara with views of the Annapurna range en route
Today, our journey to Pokhara is only 87mi (140km) but will take four to five hours. We follow the gorge of the Narayani River and soon we are in the Himalaya foothills. The scenery changes dramatically from the forests and farmlands of the terai to steep, terraced hills. As we near Pokhara, we begin to see the formidable Annapurna range. At only 3,280ft (1,000m), among semi-tropical plants and with a delightfully warm climate, it is actually much closer to the main Himalaya peaks than Kathmandu. Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Peak) dominates the skyline, especially on a clear morning. We stay in a simple hotel near Lake Phewa, with a wide choice of restaurants and other facilities close by. Accommodation: Dahlia Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Day 12 Sunrise over mountains; morning walk from Sarangkot to Pame
After breakfast, we head into the hills for even better views of the peaks. An early morning start is required for the clearest view, but once there, the whole Annapurna range can be seen with virtually no intervening hills. We start by driving (approximately 40 minutes) to Sarangkot; from there, it's a short walk to the remains of a hilltop fort that overlooks the lake – one of the best viewpoints for Machhapuchhare, most people's favourite mountain in the region. After enjoying our time here, we walk back towards Pokhara, descending down steps and trail paths, finishing just before at Pame (approximately 2hr 30min walk), where you can stop for lunch before a short transfer back to our hotel. For many, Pokhara is a place to relax, enjoying a spot beside the beautiful lake. This afternoon, you can sit back and take in the surroundings or perhaps rent a rowboat or bicycle for a few hours exploring the lake at a leisurely pace. Accommodation: Dahlia Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Day 13 Follow Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers to Kathmandu
We leave early for the long drive to Kathmandu, along the Chinese-built road running parallel to the main Himalaya range. The distance is only 125mi (200km) but it is a slow climb through the mountains and ongoing road widening construction along the route as well as some bumpy conditions in places mean the journey will take most of the day (10 to 12 hours). The views, however, are stunning as we follow the Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers, passing numerous villages and terraces stretching up the hillside. We arrive in Kathmandu in this evening and check into our centrally located hotel. Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)
Day 14 Optional Everest flight; visit Pashupatinath and Bodnath; free time
We have today to explore Kathmandu and the valley. In the early morning, you could take a scenic flight to see Mount Everest (this can be booked and paid for on arrival in Kathmandu; see the 'Extra Expenses and Spending Money' section of the Trip Notes for costs). Today there will be a half-day sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath, the most important Hindu temple in the valley, and Bodnath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. The rest of the time is free for individual exploration. You may like to visit Durbar Square with its old royal palace and intricately carved temples, or Swayambhunath, a hilltop stupa that's home to hundreds of macaques. Kathmandu also offers many souvenir shopping opportunities: clothes, trinkets, Tibetan and Nepalese handicrafts and superb bookshops. It also has a wide variety of restaurants serving some of the best food from the sub-continent and you can also find wonderful pizzas and apple pie. Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)
Day 15 End Kathmandu
Those on the flight-inclusive package will depart for the airport this morning for the daytime flight back to London. If you are on land only arrangements the adventure comes to an end this morning at check-out. Unless, of course, you'd like to join our exciting extension, in which you spend four days hiking in the Annapurna region, taking in magnificent mountain views as you pass through Gurung villages. This extension would commence from day 13, starting in Pokhara. Speak to your sales representative to book.
Day 1: ARRIVE IN MUMBAI, INDIA
Hello, Mumbai 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
Magical Mumbai 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. (Breakfast,Lunch)
Day 3: MUMBAI–VARANASI
Today, witness Mumbai’s tiffin lunch box delivery system. Later this afternoon, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. (Breakfast)
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
Near dawn, 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. (Breakfast)
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
Today, fly to Delhi, capital of India. (Breakfast)
Day 6: 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 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. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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
Remembrance & Worship This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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
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. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTLOVE REMEMBERED Explore 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.
Day 9: 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! (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
Day 10: 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. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE In addition to Bengal tigers, Ranthambore National Park is home to leopard, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and more. Take the opportunity to spot them all on guided game drives today.
Day 11: RANTHAMBORE AREA–JAIPUR
Jaunt to Jaipur Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and known as the “Pink City” ever since. After lunch, visit 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. (Breakfast,Lunch)
Day 12: 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. (Breakfast,Dinner)
LOCAL FAVORITECHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE Ladli is a training program teaching orphaned children valuable skills to keep them off the streets. 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.
Day 13: JAIPUR–KATHMANDU, NEPAL
You’re Going to Kathmandu Today, fly to Kathmandu (via Delhi), Nepal’s capital city. (Breakfast)
Day 14: KATHMANDU
City Sights 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. (Breakfast,Lunch)
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
Powerful Patan 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. (Breakfast,Lunch)
Day 16: KATHMANDU
Safe travels until we meet again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)
