Premium India & Nepal - 19 Days

Namaste! Welcome to India! When you arrive at Delhi Airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, you can explore this exciting capital city at your own pace. Filled with historical landmarks, museums, galleries and endless bazaars, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. After your meeting, head out for dinner at one of Delhi’s oldest restaurants. Having opened its doors more than 80 years ago, the iconic restaurant is credited with introducing India to ice cream and fine dining.

To get your bearings of Old Delhi, start today with a leader-led tour of the most ancient part of the city. Your leader will help you navigate the metro system so you can then 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 Jama Masjid, before heading into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara to observe the capital’s spiritual side. You have a free evening ahead to relax and recharge. Tap into your leader’s local expertise for food and activity recommendations that match your mood.

Journey to Jaipur – the capital of Rajasthan. When you arrive, you’ll head to your Feature Stay at the Hotel Narain Niwas Palace. This heritage hotel, managed by the same family since its opening in 1928, has the charm of a traditional family home with regal touches at every turn – think chandeliers, stained-glass windows and peacocks roaming the grounds. Later, join your leader on a walking tour in one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in India as you stop by bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles, folk art and the local specialty of semi-precious stones. End the evening with a home-cooked dinner in the home of a local family and make the most of your time with your hosts, learning about their way of life.

After breakfast, take a guided tour of the iconic Amber Fort, learning stories of a fallen empire as you explore ornate rooms, murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Head to the City Palace in the heart of the Pink City – constructed by Jaipur’s founder in a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. This afternoon is free to spend as you wish. Maybe visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory – one of the world’s most accurate pre-modern observatories – or float over the city in a hot air balloon. This evening, join your group for a Signature Experience at Kishore Niwas – a sixth-generation haveli with deep ties to Jaipur’s royal past. Your hosts will share personal stories and family traditions as you sip heritage liqueurs on the rooftop while the city glows below. After, you’ll probably want to sample some Rajasthani street food, like pyaaz kachori (a crispy pastry filled with spiced onion).

Today, you’ll head to Agra. After a scenic drive, settle into your new hotel before visiting India’s most iconic landmark – the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A tribute to his belated wife, Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this famous monument in 1632 to house her remains. Your local guide will tell you its history as you stroll the grounds at sunset. For dinner tonight, your leader can recommend a great local spot to try the best curries.

This morning, you’ll visit Agra Fort – the seat of the Mughal Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The present structure was built by Akbar as the first buildings on the eastern banks of Yamuna River. After, you’ll head off to Lucknow – the capital of India’s largest region, Uttar Pradesh. When you arrive, your leader will guide the group on an afternoon walk to help you get your bearings. This evening, head out for dinner at a restaurant that supports and empowers acid attack survivors. These courageous women, once too scared to leave their homes due to the physical and emotional scars of their attacks, have found refuge and a source of income through their work at the cafe.

Seize the day with a morning tour of Lucknow, where your leader will show you some of the city’s best spots. This might include a stop at the intricate Bara Imambara – a hall built in 1784 for Shia Muslims. Its labyrinthine layout of narrow passages and staircases is best navigated with the help of a knowledgeable local. If you were impressed by Lucknow’s cuisine last night, you’ll be delighted with this afternoon’s cooking class. Discover the culinary secrets of Lucknowites, gaining skills that you can hopefully put to good use at home!

Wake up early today for a unique slice of Indian life aboard an air-conditioned train. With more than 21 million people travelling by train across India each day, the rail network is one of the busiest in the world, so you can expect a lively and bustling atmosphere. Although you will have your breakfast packed with you, don’t miss out on an opportunity to interact with the local vendors who board the train at various stops to sell snacks and Indian Chai tea. The ride to Varanasi offers a unique glimpse of the countryside from the comfort of your seat. When you’ve checked into your hotel, join the group for a walking tour of the city widely known as India’s spiritual capital. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise on the Ganges. You’ll be joined by local musicians on board, who will play as you watch the flower and candle ceremony – an experience that will surely stay with you long after your time in India is over.

Early risers, this one’s for you – embark on a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where your leader will explain the significance of India’s most sacred river while gliding past the many ghats and temples on its banks. After, hop into an e-rickshaw, saying ‘Namaste’ to your female driver from Holy City Rickshaws, and weave through the bustling streets of Banaras. Stop at iconic eateries and street food stalls to try chaat, crispy samosas, golden jalebis, refreshing lassi and sweet, aromatic chai served in earthen cups – you’ll quickly understand why Banaras is known as the ‘city of breakfasts’. This afternoon, visit Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations and where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon on the path to enlightenment. The site features several stupas and museums to explore. 

It’s the penultimate day today and time to return to Delhi. When you land, 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 before your final group dinner. You’ll head to a beautiful haveli dating back to 1887. Tuck into a feast of Mughlai cuisine, street food dishes and kebabs in a historical setting – the perfect finale to your Indian adventure.

Today you’ll travel to Kathmandu for the second half of your trip. You’ll have a second group meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your new group members and leader. Until then, settle into Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities. Maybe take a walk around the Garden of Dreams or check out Kathmandu’s architecture. After your meeting, head out into the Thamel and Jyatha neighbourhoods for dinner with your leader and group – maybe try some woh (a pancake made from freshly ground black lentils) or Kukhurako Masu (chicken cooked Nepali style).

After breakfast, explore Kathmandu on a sightseeing tour with your leader. Head to the lively Durbar square – the once glorious centre of Nepal’s royal power. Visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the surrounding monasteries. Stop by a Thangka painting studio and gain inside knowledge on this sacred and traditional form of Buddhist art and the training that goes into being a Thangka artist. Visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, where you’ll see Hindu holy men meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The rest of your afternoon is free for further explorations.

This morning, join a cooking class to gain a true understanding of Nepal’s culinary heritage, founded and led by local Nepali women with a passion for conserving, promoting and sharing the rich food culture of the indigenous people of the Kathmandu valley. You’ll learn about the traditions that have spanned centuries and recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Master the local methods of cooking and put together some classic dishes, then sit down to lunch with your new friends. After, begin the journey to Nagarkot, stopping at Bhaktapur along the way – a beautifully preserved ancient city, home to many temples and statues. Explore three of the most important squares – Durbar, Taumadhi and Pottery square – before continuing your journey. When you arrive, prepare for an overnight stay at Club Himalaya, renowned for its unrestricted view of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan and the surrounding areas. End the day with a relaxing sundowner while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains as the sun sets. Start with a local cocktail and Nepalese masala tea before tucking into sel roti’a (traditional Nepali ring-shaped fried bread). This bread symbolises good fortune, peace and family unity and you’ll watch it being made before tucking in – yum!

Wake up and witness an early morning 180-degree sunrise view before travelling to Kathmandu airport by chartered coach. From here, you’ll fly to Pokhara – if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Himalayan Mountain chain to the north. When you arrive, take a boat ride across the lake of Phewa Tal – the second largest lake in Nepal. Visit the Peace Pagoda for excellent views of the mountains, including the Annapurna Range, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and a glimpse back across to Pokhara. In the afternoon, maybe take some time to enjoy Pokhara’s mellow atmosphere and wander its colourful streets or take a stroll along the lake and see the brightly painted paddle boats in the water. Pokhara has no shortage of restaurants to tempt your tastebuds, so be sure to ask your leader for some great local recommendations.

Start the day with a visit to Sarangkot viewpoint for a sunrise over the snowcapped Himalayan peaks, from the Annapurna Ranges to Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre). Your leader will be on hand to answer any questions about the landscape. Then, head to the International Mountain Museum, which is full of fascinating tales of climbing expeditions from the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. After some time at the museum, you’ll visit a local Tibetan community. 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 momos (steamed dumplings), which you’ll then eat together for lunch. Later, enjoy a free evening in Pokhara.

After breakfast, make the morning drive to Chitwan National Park and arrive at your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights – Barahi Jungle Lodge. Perfectly positioned on the banks of the Rapti River, opposite the park, this jungle oasis offers first-class service and naturally warm Nepali hospitality. After settling in, you’ll venture from the lodge to your Signature Experience with the Tharu community. This indigenous group has inhabited the Terai plains of southern Nepal and northern India for centuries, and you’re invited to experience their culture and lifestyle, religious practices and cooking methods. You’ll sip local tea and, if you wish, raksi (traditional alcohol), learning how it’s prepared. Chat with senior community members about their life on the plains, then head to the Rapti River, champagne sundowner in hand. Watch for egrets, storks and maybe even a sloth bear in this beautiful spot – don't worry, your wildlife guide can help you identify what you’re seeing. End the evening with a special bush dinner, as the stars start to pop out above you.

After breakfast, leave the lodge for an early morning dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. Your local guide will help you spot marsh mugger crocodiles along with the various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but you might see one if you’re lucky! When you return to dry land, set out on a late-afternoon safari to see the park’s varied flora and fauna. In the evening, enjoy dinner with your group and relax at your accommodation’s bar while discussing the day’s sightings or listening to the songs of the jungle.

Have breakfast at the resort before driving back to Kathmandu. After arriving back in the capital, you’re free to explore and further soak up this vibrant city. Tonight, join your leader and group for a farewell dinner at Kaiser Café. The restaurant is a short walk from the hotel, so you can take this opportunity for a final stroll through town before one last taste of Nepal’s delicious traditional food.

Your Nepali adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you’d like to extend your stay in Kathmandu, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.