Signature: India & Nepal, Taj Mahal, Ganges & Himalayas - 16 Days

Welcome to India. Your expedition begins in the colourful, and captivating city of Jaipur. Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel to settle in. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing and insights that bring the region's royal history to life. Afterward, step into a world of culinary delights with a welcome dinner.

Breathe in the scent of jasmine and spices as you explore the vibrant morning streets of Jaipur. Board an upgraded vehicle with the Pink City Rickshaw Company, a the tour operator supported project empowering women entrepreneurs. Return to the hotel for lunch before heading to the 16th-century Amber Fort. Ride up to the hilltop fortress to marvel at the Sheesh Mahal, where thousands of mirror tiles catch the afternoon light, and examine the intricate underground water systems engineered for cooling. As twilight falls, experience the grandeur of Jaipur's City Palace after hours on a curated private tour, gaining deep insight into royal legacies. Conclude the evening with a majestic multi-course dinner inside the palace grounds, where traditional flavours are served beneath the stars.

Leave the Pink City behind and watch the rural landscape unfold on the drive toward Agra. Pause en route at Abhaneri to stand over the breathtaking Chand Baori stepwell. One of India’s deepest and most visually striking architectural wonders, its 3,500 symmetrically arranged steps form a geometric maze plunging into the earth, built over a millennium ago. Continue to the historic Laxmi Vilas Palace for a grand, family-style lunch that highlights regional cooking. After, continue to Agra and check into your hotel as the evening sky softens. The remainder of the evening is yours to unwind, perhaps watching the sunset over the Yamuna River.

This morning, you have a choice of guided tours to India’s most famous site: wake early as the first light of dawn bathes the ivory-white marble of the Taj Mahal in soft pink tones then enjoy breakfast, or choose to take your guided exploration after morning breakfast. Delve into the Mughal legacy at Agra Fort, a red sandstone fortress that served as the principal imperial residence, where your guide brings historic court intrigues to life. Afterward, share an inspiring lunch at Sheroes Café, a the tour operator supported project operated by acid attack survivors. Listen to their powerful stories of resilience and community empowerment before enjoying a free afternoon. Gather back at the hotel in the evening for a specially prepared dinner celebrating northern Indian culinary heritage.

Board the Vande Bharat Express train, settling into the spacious Executive Car where dedicated staff cater to your comfort. Watch the North Indian plains blur past as you speed toward Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. After checking into your hotel, step onto the stone ghats as the air thickens with incense. Board a private boat along the sacred Ganges for a special Banaras Gharana classical music performance, immersing yourself in a revered Hindustani lineage. As darkness falls, witness the hypnotic fire, chanting, and bells of the Ganga Aarti ceremony from the water before dining at the heritage Brijrama Palace.

Watch the morning mist lift during a sunrise boat ride on the Holy River Ganges, observing pilgrims performing centuries-old prayers along the water's edge. After, set out on a walking tour through Varanasi's labyrinth of ancient, narrow lanes, where hidden shrines and local market stalls come to life, before returning to the hotel for a late breakfast. Later, travel to the peaceful ruins of Sarnath, the cradle of Buddhism where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the soaring ancient stupas, monolithic columns, and the onsite archaeological museum. Enjoy some time later to explore Varanasi’s spiritual energy at your own pace before dinner.

Fly from the sacred banks of Varanasi to Delhi, marking your arrival in the capital for the final chapter of the trip. After checking into your hotel and freshening up, dive into the city's layered history with a private heritage walk through the verdant Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Led by a senior member of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), you will weave past centuries-old tombs and stepwells, learning about critical conservation efforts and local legends. The afternoon concludes with a high tea discussion at a local café, where you can engage with your host over refined pastries and Indian teas.

Explore the bustling streets of Old Delhi on a walking tour hosted by the Salaam Baalak Trust. Along the way, gain a deeper understanding of the neighborhood and the organization's meaningful work empowering former street youth. Next, climb into an upgraded rickshaw for a thrilling ride through the historic, bustling market lanes of Chandni Chowk, passing historic bazaars and sweetshops. Indulge in a curated tasting menu featuring refined Indian cuisine inside a beautifully restored Mughal-era mansion. In the evening, join your Expedition Leader, Expedition Expert and fellow travellers to reflect on the highlights of your trip before celebrating with a grand farewell dinner.

Bid farewell to India as you board your flight toward the towering peaks of the Himalayas. Touch down in Kathmandu, where the air is scented with incense, pine, and woodsmoke. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, gather with your fellow travellers, National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert. A welcome reception sets the stage for your upcoming exploration of the monasteries, royal squares, and wildlife reserves of the Kathmandu Valley, followed by a dinner highlighting authentic Nepalese hospitality.

Choose to embark on an optional scenic flight to witness the Himalayas from above, as the sun illuminates the world’s highest peaks. Back on the ground, explore the ancient Swoyambhu Stupa, where prayer flags flutter over the valley from its hilltop perch. Continue to the massive white dome of Boudhanath Stupa, a spiritual focal point for Tibetan Buddhism, where devotees perform kora in a rhythmic display of faith. In the afternoon, join an Everest summiteer for a compelling session to gain unique insights into life on the world's highest peak. After, visit Taragaon Next Museum to learn how they repurpose discarded plastic into art. Then, in historic Kirtipur, master the elegant curves of the ancient Ranjana Lipi script. As the sun dips low, walk to the 16th-century Bagh Bhairab Temple to join a private evening Aarti experience, lighting cotton lamps that cast a golden glow against ancient stone. Conclude the day with a warm, home-hosted dinner with a local family.

Leave the highlands behind and fly into the lush lowlands of the Terai. Journey into the heart of Chitwan, where the air grows thick with the scent of tropical forest. Meet the indigenous Tharu community to learn about their daily life and traditional wall painting techniques. Later, enjoy a peaceful boat safari on the Rapti River, drifting quietly past gharial crocodiles and diverse birdlife. The afternoon concludes at the river’s edge with a scenic sundowner and refreshments, followed by a long table discussion delving into the park’s wildlife.

Wake to the sounds of the jungle and start the morning with a guided village walk, followed by a breakfast hosted within the local community. Venture into the dense forests and open grasslands of Chitwan National Park for an immersive jeep safari. With a local naturalist at your side, scan the undergrowth for the one-horned rhinoceros, wild boar, and vibrant bird species that call this UNESCO World Heritage site home. In the evening, the rhythm of the drum takes over during a traditional cultural dance performance, followed by a unique Tharu-inspired dining experience that celebrates the flavours of the lowlands.

Leave the jungle behind and fly back to the Kathmandu Valley, arriving in the medieval city of Bhaktapur. Step into a world of crimson brick and intricate timber, where the air carries the scent of warming spices and clay. Wind through ancient courtyards and artisan streets, pausing to taste the legendary Juju Dhau — a rich, velvety "king curd" served in traditional terracotta bowls. After exploring the city’s soaring pagodas and open squares, continue the drive into the hills to Dhulikhel. Settle into your hotel as the evening light begins to soften over the surrounding ridges, offering a moment of quiet reflection before dinner.

Travel to the medieval Newari town of Panauti, a the tour operator supported project, where time seems to stand still amidst ancient stone and timber. Meet with a local expert for an insightful presentation on the intricate craft of Newari architecture. Observe the delicate precision of traditional wood carving and learn how these heritage structures are being meticulously restored to preserve the town’s soul. Following this cultural immersion, gather for a vibrant community feast. Watch as families prepare authentic Newari specialities live, the air filling with the aroma of toasted spices and wood-fired ovens. Share stories over a spread of traditional dishes, celebrating the deep-rooted hospitality and culinary artistry of the Kathmandu Valley’s original inhabitants.

Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you walk a forested trail from Dhulikhel toward Namo Buddha. On clear days, the white peaks of the Himalayan range appear to the north. Reach the Namo Buddha Monastery, one of Nepal's most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, where the atmosphere is one of profound peace. Spend time exploring the complex and, if schedules permit, observe the afternoon prayer session to witness the cadence of monastic life. After an included lunch at the monastery, travel back to the capital. Gather with your fellow travellers and for a farewell dinner and wrap-up presentation to celebrate the stories and connections made.

Your expedition through the heart of Nepal concludes this morning. Savour a final breakfast at your hotel, reflecting on the transition from the ancient streets of Kathmandu to the wild riverbanks of Chitwan. Take a final moment to absorb the view of the valley before your transfer to the airport.