India Nepal Expedition - 18 Days

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 included on day one 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.

This morning you'll jump straight on the city’s metro with your guide and make your way to Jama Masjid, the city’s oldest mosque. Ready your appetite, because you’re about to taste your way through Old Delhi’s legendary street food scene. Wander through tangled alleyways and try breakfast favourites like Bedmi Poori with potato curry, crispy jalebi, or hot paratha straight from the pan. Keep your eyes peeled for the local chai wallah, pouring steaming cups of sweet, spiced tea.

After breakfast, jump aboard a local train for an air-conditioned ride to Agra. Known worldwide for the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is a city rich in Mughal history, filled with lush gardens and architecture. This afternoon, you'll head to explore one of India’s finest forts, Agra Fort. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Sheroes Hangout, a vegetarian and vegan café with a powerful purpose.

Say goodbye to Agra and hop on your air-conditioned public bus to the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur. This evening, step into the glitz and drama of Indian cinema with a Bollywood blockbuster at the spectacular Raj Mandir Cinema – a Jaipur landmark. Expect a whirlwind of action, romance, drama, and music (sometimes all at once) in one of the most opulent theatres in the country.

This morning 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. 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.

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. 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 your accommodation for the night

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.

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. 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.

Today you will take a bus to the home of the blue city, Jodhpur. Your Haveli accommodation 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. 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.

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 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. Return to the hotel for wash and change before your transfer to the railway station for your overnight train to Delhi.

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 with your new travel friends.

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.

Explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu on your included city tour. You’ll explore the iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square, visit the Swoyambhunath Stupa, and 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.

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.

After breakfast, you'll start off with a 45-minute canoe ride along the tranquil river, offering a unique perspective of the park's diverse ecosystem. Next, you'll continue walking along the river on a guided walk into the local village. 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 native birds.

Today you will journey to Pokhara, 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.

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 culture of the indigenous communities. Whether you’re an keen hiker or a nature enthusiast, this journey will captivate you with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As the night approaches, gather for a farewell dinner and reflect on the incredible adventure and friendships you've made on tour.

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. Your included transfer will be a 8-9 hour journey. To avoid this longer journey, you may also take a short domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Please note that this will have to be arranged independently and is not included in the tour.