North India & Nepal Adventure - 20 Days

Welcome to India, a land of vibrant cultures, rich cuisine, and awe-inspiring architecture shaped by centuries of history and tradition.

Upon arriving in New Delhi, you'll be transferred to your hotel, where your tour leader will welcome you. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner. Together, we’ll savor the tantalizing aromas and bold flavors of Indian cuisine, our first taste of the country’s culinary magic.

Please note: This tour stays in a mixture of hotels and hostels and is designed for younger travellers looking for a backpacker-style experience and to meet like-minded people. The average age on this tour is around 21 - 35, and we are unfortunately unable to take any travellers over the age of 45. We have lots of group tours across our destinations that are suitable for travellers of all ages, browse our website or get in touch to find the perfect trip!

After breakfast, we set off with our local guide to explore Delhi's vibrant streets, offering a first glimpse into Indian life. Our journey begins at a Sikh Temple, where we learn about this significant religion and visit the community kitchen, witnessing the preparation of thousands of chapatis and even stirring the massive curry pots ourselves.

After lunch (not included), we stop by the Lotus Temple for a peaceful stroll through its gardens. we will then head inside for a moment of reflection.

In the evening, we head to Old Delhi. Sampling Indian sweets and snacks, we take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, leading us to Mutton Street. Here, vibrant markets, eclectic stalls, and historic shrines capture the essence of Old Delhi.

Delhi - Agra. After breakfast, we board a train to Agra. Upon arrival, we settle into our hotel. The rest of the morning is at your leisure to relax or explore independently. Alternatively, you can opt to visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with grand palaces, courtyards, and mosques. Built by Emperor Akbar, this 16th-century fortress offers insights into Mughal history, royal life, and stunning architecture.

In the afternoon, a Tuk Tuk ride takes us to a peaceful garden south of the Taj Mahal, offering a quiet, crowd-free view of this magnificent monument at sunset. Today is about admiring its beauty from afar, as tomorrow we head inside. you can enjoy dinner in the evening and settle in early.

Agra - Jaipur. We start early, arriving at the Taj Mahal at dawn to witness its stunning beauty before the crowds arrive. Our local guide will take us to the best viewing spots, including the iconic location of Princess Diana’s famous photo, as we learn the romantic story behind this world-famous landmark. We’ll uncover the secrets and history that make the Taj Mahal so special.

After breakfast, we travel to Jaipur, the Pink City, by bus. Known for its palaces, forts, lush gardens, and vibrant bazaars, Jaipur offers a true taste of Rajasthani culture with its colorful food, outfits, and folk songs and dances making this Pink City a treasure of Rajasthani culture.

This evening, experience a Bollywood movie at one of the world’s grandest theaters for an unforgettable cultural experience.

After breakfast, we explore Jaipur’s old town on foot with our guide, visiting the bustling local markets to uncover the origins of the "Pink City" while learning about the spices that are central to Indian cooking. Along the way, we’ll visit the stunning Palace of the Winds, Jaipur’s signature palace made of red and pink sandstone.

Next, we jump into Tuk Tuks to visit Galta-Ji, also known as the Monkey Temple. Nestled in the hills, this sacred spot is home to hundreds of long-tailed grey monkeys. The rest of your afternoon is free for you to explore other sights of Jaipur at your own pace or revisit your favorite local markets.

For more adventure today, you can visit Amber Fort, a 16th-century hilltop fortress with stunning views and the ornate Mirror Palace. Alternatively, join a Leopard Safari through scrub forests and rocky terrain to spot leopards, sloths, antelopes, and diverse birdlife, both at an additional fee.

Jaipur - Pushkar. After breakfast, we take a private transfer to Pushkar, one of India’s most sacred towns. 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. You have the morning free to explore at your own pace.

In the afternoon, a local Brahmin welcomes us with a traditional blessing at the serene holy lake, an important spiritual site for pilgrims. We’ll have time to relax, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred town before returning to our accommodation for the night.

Pushkar - Udaipur. Today, we travel back to Ajmer and catch a train to Udaipur, known as the "White City" or the city of lakes and a famous filming location for James Bond: Octopussy. Udaipur’s serene lakes and stunning architecture capture a perfect balance of activity and calm.

We will explore the markets and old town and take a private sunset cruise on the lake, offering a unique perspective of the city. The evening concludes with dinner (not included) at one of our favourite rooftop restaurants, where we can enjoy the view as the city lights up. We're staying in a comfortable heritage haveli in Udaipur.

This morning, we set out on a guided village tour by bike, pedaling through scenic rural landscapes and quiet paths. Our local guide, a village resident, offers fascinating insights into daily life, longstanding traditions, and cultural practices as we stop at important local temples, learning about their significance to the community.

After the bike tour, we visit a local school to meet students and teachers, gaining a deeper understanding of the education system and its role in village life. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore at leisure. If you're seeking more to do, you can opt for a visit to the Udaipur City Palace, a majestic architectural marvel overlooking Lake Pichola, rich with history and intricate design.

At sunset, we gather back at camp, where local villagers host a hands-on cooking session. Together, we learn the art of preparing traditional Indian dishes, from grinding spices to perfecting recipes passed down through generations, creating a memorable culinary connection with the community.

Udaipur- Jodhpur. Today, we take a bus to Jodhpur, famously known as the Blue City. On arrival in the evening, we transfer to a traditional Haveli nestled in the heart of the city, surrounded by the labyrinth of blue-painted buildings and under the shadow of the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. After checking in, we gather with our group on the rooftop for dinner, offering our first glimpse of this enchanting city.

In the late afternoon, we stroll through the mesmerizing blue streets, pausing at the Jodhpur stepwell, a striking example of ancient stonework. As we explore the bustling clock tower market, we sample the famous Saffron Lassi and tasty samosas.

This morning is free for you to relax, during your free time, you can choose from several optional activities: explore the Blue City on foot, You can opt to join a sunrise yoga session on a rooftop, take a guided Blue City Photography Walking Tour, or, for the adventurous, try ziplining over the ramparts of Mehrangarh Fort.

In the early afternoon, we meet as a group and walk to Mehrangarh Fort with our local guide. As we explore this impeccably preserved fort with the help of an audio guide, we gain a comprehensive understanding of Indian royal life.

Jodhpur - Bikaner. This morning, we catch an early train to Bikaner, a city of vibrant colors, ancient traditions, and captivating desert landscapes. Founded in the 15th century in the heart of the Thar Desert, Bikaner played a vital role on the historic Silk Road and remains renowned for its iconic camels.

After arriving, we transfer to our accommodation for breakfast before beginning our adventure in Camel Country. We embark on an exciting Jeep safari, traveling through local villages, navigating vast sand dunes, and keeping an eye out for desert wildlife. Following this, we visit the Camel Research Centre, a renowned facility known for its world-class riding camels and extensive research. We wrap up the day with dinner and some well-earned relaxation.

Please Note: For departures between September and March will be camping in Bikaner.

Bikaner - Delhi. After a leisurely morning, we check out and make our way to the heart of Bikaner for an old city walking tour. Wandering through the narrow, winding streets of the historic quarter, we uncover centuries-old architecture, vibrant markets, and hidden gems around every corner. The bazaars come alive with colorful stalls brimming with spices, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional sweets.

We also stop by artisan workshops, where talented craftsmen share their skills in age-old crafts like pottery, carpet weaving, and jewelry making, offering a fascinating glimpse into Bikaner’s rich cultural heritage. After dinner, we board an overnight train bound for Delhi.

Upon arrival in Delhi, we transfer from the train station to our hotel. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. You can visit nearby attractions like the vibrant Connaught Place for shopping and local cafes, stroll through the serene Lodhi Gardens, or relax. Later, we will gather for dinner our final dinner in India.

Delhi - Kathmandu. This morning, we transfer to Delhi Airport for your flight to Kathmandu. It’s time to say goodbye to India and begin the final leg of your expedition in Nepal’s lively and colorful capital.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be met at the airport and taken to Thamel Bazaar, the city’s bustling cultural and commercial hub. Here, we gather for a welcoming dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, where you can savor local dishes while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic area.

Today we’ll explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu, where ancient traditions meet modern life. We’ll visit the iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square, marveling at its stunning architecture and historic palaces. Next, we’ll experience the serene spiritual vibes and panoramic city views from the Swoyambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. We’ll then wander through Patan Durbar Square, celebrated for its exquisite temples and artisan shops.

We’ll wrap up the day with a special cooking demonstration and dinner at Seven Women, a social enterprise empowering marginalized women through education and employment. We will enjoy the flavors of authentic Nepalese cuisine while supporting this inspiring cause.

Kathmandu - Chitwan National Park. After breakfast today, we head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chitwan National Park, home to wildlife like rhinoceroses, tigers, elephants, and over 500 bird species. Known as one of Asia's premier national parks, Chitwan offers a rare opportunity to observe these animals in the wild.

We’ll return to our accommodation in the evening, with the rest of the night at your leisure to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Today is filled with exciting jungle activities as we explore the wonders of Chitwan. After breakfast, we head out for a one-hour jungle walk, offering a chance to get close to the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Next, we enjoy a peaceful 45-minute canoe ride along the tranquil river, providing a unique perspective of the park’s varied ecosystems.

In the afternoon, we set off on a 4-hour jeep safari, with opportunities to spot rhinos, tigers, and numerous bird species. Chitwan is one of the few places in the world where you might see rhinos wandering the town’s streets, highlighting the remarkable coexistence of wildlife and humans here.

Chitwan National Park - Pokhara. Today, we travel to Pokhara, a captivating lakeside city known as the Gateway to the Himalayas. Nestled in the foothills of the Annapurna range, Pokhara offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere.

After settling into our accommodation, we embark on an evening walk around the serene waters of Phewa Lake. We visit the Tal Barahi Temple, explore quaint fishing villages, and wander through bustling local bazaars filled with vibrant handicrafts and tempting street food. Take a moment to admire the stunning reflection of the surrounding mountains on the lake as we immerse ourselves in the local culture.

Pokhara - Annapurna Australian Camp - Pokhara. We set out on a scenic trek to Australian Camp, passing through the charming Dhampus village. This 5-6 hour hike takes us through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountain Range.

Along the way, we encounter vibrant local wildlife and experience the rich culture of the indigenous communities. The trek offers countless opportunities for photography, with stunning vistas at every turn. Whether we’re seasoned hikers or nature lovers, this journey promises unforgettable views and cherished memories.

Please note: if you have a respiratory condition such as asthma, we recommend you consult your doctor before booking.

Pokhara - Kathmandu. Today, we say goodbye to the serene beauty of Pokhara as we return to Kathmandu, wishing you a safe journey ahead!