India & Nepal on a Budget: Varanasi to Kathmandu - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the India & Nepal on a Budget tour?

  This nine-day adventure offers epic sights and spiritual vibes. Highlights include a sunrise boat ride on the sacred Ganges in Varanasi, visiting Buddha’s birthplace and ancient temples in Lumbini, spotting wildlife on safari in Chitwan National Park, and enjoying mountain views and free time in Pokhara.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will stay in simple hotels or guesthouses (twin-share) for 6 nights and a homestay for 2 nights. Please note that accommodations in India can vary in terms of service and cleanliness compared to what you might be used to, and power cuts are common. Some two-story properties may not have elevators.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes trains (AC 2-tier, AC 3-tier, sleeper class for overnight, and AC Chair car or second class for day journeys), private vehicles, walking, tuktuks, and boats. The Indian railway system offers an immersive way to experience the country.

• What is the typical age range and group size for this tour?

  This tour is designed for 18-to-Thirtysomethings, with a minimum age of 18 and a maximum age of 39. The maximum group size is 20 travellers, with an average of 16.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  Only 1 breakfast is included. Generally, meals are not included to provide maximum flexibility in deciding where and what to eat. India is noted as a vegetarian-friendly destination.

• As a solo traveler, will I have my own room, or is there an extra cost?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, so there is no single supplement for solo travellers. You will be paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Your CEO will require evidence of your travel insurance details.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for India and Nepal?

  All travellers need a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). For India, a valid Indian visa is required prior to the start of the tour, which can be obtained via e-Visa or from an embassy/consulate. For Nepal, e-Visas are available for some nationalities, and visas can also be obtained upon arrival at the airport or land crossings. It is your responsibility to check the most up-to-date requirements for your nationality.

• What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs in India and Nepal?

  Dress standards in Asia are more conservative. Loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended. Shorts are not allowed as they may restrict entry into religious buildings and family homes in India. A light water/windproof jacket and a hat are useful. It can be very cold in the hills from December to February, so warm clothes are necessary then.

• Are there any health considerations or required inoculations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required, and it's your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor well before departure for up-to-date medical travel information. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and personal medical requirements. Our CEOs cannot administer drugs. Pharmacies in Asia often stock local versions of Western drugs, so bring full drug names for prescriptions.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a Guided Tour of Sarnath and a Heritage and Spiritual Walk in Old Benaras in Varanasi. In Royal Chitwan National Park, you can opt for Cycling (950NPR per person), a Chitwan 4x4 Safari (6900NPR per person), or a Barauli Community Immersion. Other options include a Sarangkot Sunrise Walk (60NPR per person), a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, and an Everest Flight.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  All group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The CEO will provide information, suggestions for activities and eating venues, and broad general knowledge of the countries. Local guides are also used for more specific knowledge in certain areas.

• What should I know about currency and money exchange in India and Nepal?

  Currency exchange rates fluctuate; check www.xe.com for daily rates. Many ATMs accept Visa and Mastercard in major cities. USD cash is also recommended. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but may incur a 2-4% transaction fee.

• Is tipping customary on this trip, and what are the guidelines?

  Tipping service providers (like waiters, around 10%) is customary and expected in India and Nepal. For local guides and drivers, $4-5 USD per person per day is a guideline. For your CEO, $8-10 USD per person per day is appreciated at the end of the trip.

• What is the Planeterra International Foundation and how does it relate to the tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. Our operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation (e.g., $1/day through the Dollar-a-day Program) directly supports these projects.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs and prostitution on this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. Using prostitutes is also against our philosophy of respect towards local people. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found possessing drugs or using prostitutes.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour. Baggage allowances and check-in times vary by airline; contact your airline for the most up-to-date information.

• What cultural aspects should I be aware of when traveling in India?

  India is very different from many Western countries, and travellers should expect culture shock due to pollution, poverty, and crowds. Attitudes towards timekeeping, public cleanliness, privacy, and service differ. Patience and a good sense of humor are essential for enjoying the unique experience India offers. English is widely spoken in both India and Nepal.

• Are laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What safety and security measures should I consider during the trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is also recommended. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons and will accompany you on all included activities. During free time, use good judgment when selecting optional activities and avoid wandering alone at night, opting for taxis.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit the operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and to use tools like Equaldex to assess destinations for safety and comfort.

• What are the main highlights of the India & Nepal on a Budget tour?

  This nine-day adventure includes a sunrise cruise on the sacred Ganges in Varanasi, exploring Buddha’s birthplace and ancient temples in Lumbini, spotting wildlife on safari in Chitwan National Park, and enjoying mountain views and free time in Pokhara.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You will stay in simple hotels or guesthouses (twin-share) for six nights and experience a homestay for two nights. Please note that hotels in India may vary in service and cleanliness, and power cuts can occur. Some properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• What types of transportation are used during the tour?

  The tour uses a combination of train, private vehicle, walking, tuktuk, and boat. Indian trains, including AC 2 tier, AC 3 tier, and sleeper class for overnight journeys, and AC Chair car or second class for day journeys, are a key part of the experience.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 20 travellers, with an average of 16.

• What is the age range and travel style for this tour?

  This tour is designed for '18-to-Thirtysomethings', with a minimum age of 18 and a maximum age of 39.

• How many meals are included in this trip?

  One breakfast is included in the trip price. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in dining choices, though food is typically inexpensive.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Evidence of insurance will be required by your CEO.

• What should I know about health considerations before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required, and it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Pharmacies in Asia generally stock Western drugs, but bring the full drug name for prescription medications.

• What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs?

  In India and Nepal, dress standards are conservative. Loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended at all times, especially when visiting small rural communities, temples, mosques, or other holy sites, as shorts are generally not allowed and may restrict entry. A light water and windproof jacket is useful, and a hat is essential.

• What is the policy for solo travellers?

  Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, as our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a Guided Tour of Sarnath and a Heritage and Spiritual Walk in Old Benaras in Varanasi; Cycling, Chitwan 4x4 Safari, and Barauli Community Immersion in Royal Chitwan National Park; Sarangkot Sunrise Walk; and a Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, or an Everest Flight from Kathmandu.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money?

  As of May 2023, the exchange rate for India was 1 USD = 85.41 INR (Indian Rupees) and for Nepal, 1 USD = 136.52 NPR (Nepalese Rupees). ATMs that accept Visa and Mastercard are limited to major cities. Cash in USD is also recommended. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but may incur a 2-4% transaction fee.

• Is tipping customary on this trip?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (approximately 10%) is customary in India and Nepal. Tipping local guides or drivers is also appreciated, with recommendations ranging from $4-5 USD per person per day. For your CEO, a guideline of $8-10 USD per person per day is suggested.

• What should I know about culture shock in India?

  India is a very unique country and can lead to initial culture shock due to pollution, poverty, and crowds. Attitudes towards timekeeping, public cleanliness, privacy, and service may differ from home. Patience and a sense of humour are key to enjoying the experience.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for India and Nepal?

  All travellers need a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). An Indian e-Visa or physical visa is required prior to the tour start. Nepal offers e-Visas for some nationalities, and visas are also available upon arrival at the airport and land crossings. It is your responsibility to check the most up-to-date requirements.