Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
16 Days Starting in Mumbai, India and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal
Visiting: Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, Kathmandu, Asia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ODY8-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through India and Nepal with the "Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu" tour. This cultural adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Mumbai, where you'll explore iconic landmarks and the vibrant Bollywood scene, to the sacred city of Varanasi, and the historical wonders of Delhi and Agra, including the majestic Taj Mahal. Experience the thrill of wildlife safaris in Ranthambore National Park, home to the elusive Bengal tiger, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Jaipur, the Pink City. Conclude your journey in Kathmandu, Nepal, exploring ancient temples and the serene beauty of the Himalayas. Enjoy luxurious accommodations and the expertise of local guides throughout this captivating tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Mumbai,India
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation Name: Trident, Nariman Point
Welcome to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a vibrant history—now India’s premier seaport and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry.
Day 2: Mumbai
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation Name: Trident, Nariman Point
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Join your Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Please note: You will meet your Tour Director on day 5 in Delhi.MUMBAI Magical Mumbai Join your Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. (B,L) Please note: You will meet your Tour Director on day 5 in Delhi.
Day 3: Mumbai,Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities.
Day 4: Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
VARANASI Sacred Rituals Near dawn, join your Local Guide and board a boat and watch a meaningful religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. You’ll observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga or meditation. Return to your hotel for breakfast and time at leisure. Early this evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT FIRE & WATER Witness the light of ancient tradition as night descends on the Ganges River in Varanasi. Witness the devotional offerings made to the Goddess Ganga in the aarti performed at the river’s edge as it has been done throughout the ages. A ritual of fire, faithful Hindus float “diyas” (small candle and flowers) on the waters of the Ganges River, while praying for the blessing of Maa Ganga.
Day 5: Varanasi,Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Le Meridien New Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Delhi, capital of India.
Day 6: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Le Meridien New Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Then, visit Jama Masjid and take a [LF] rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of free time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner that includes a cooking demonstration and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef.
Day 7: Delhi,Agra
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Trident, Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening.
Day 8: Agra
Location: Agra
Accommodation Name: Trident, Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with a sunrise visit to the captivating Taj Mahal. After a bit of down time, travel to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces.
Day 9: Agra,Fatehpur Sikri,Ranthambore National Park Area
Location: Ranthambore National Park
Accommodation Name: Ranthambhore Kothi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, stop at Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for merely 10 years before it was completely abandoned due to the lack of adequate water. After lunch in Bharatpur, board a train bound for Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger!
Day 10: Ranthambore Area
Location: Ranthambore National Park
Accommodation Name: Ranthambhore Kothi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, explore Ranthambore National Park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. Between game drives, enjoy free time to relax.
Day 11: Ranthambore Area,Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Jaipur Marriott Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and known as the “Pink City” ever since.
Day 12: Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Jaipur Marriott Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Jaipur,Kathmandu,Nepal
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Kathmandu (via Delhi), Nepal’s capital city, where you will be met by a Globus representative. Please note: Your Tour Director does not accompany guests on extensions. Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu is as outlined in the itinerary.JAIPUR–KATHMANDU, NEPAL Going to Kathmandu Today, fly to Kathmandu (via Delhi), Nepal’s capital city, where you will be met by a Globus representative. (B) Please note: Your Tour Director does not accompany guests on extensions. Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu is as outlined in the itinerary.
Day 14: Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Join your Local Guide for morning sightseeing starting with a visit to Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty. Then, visit the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Day 15: Kathmandu Patan Excursion
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, travel with your Local Guide to Bouddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Then, continue to Patan, formerly known as Lalitpur (City of Beauty). Here, stop in Durbar Square, the city’s center of business and home to several Buddhist and Hindu sites.
Day 16: Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various cities including Trident, Nariman Point in Mumbai, Taj Ganges in Varanasi, Le Meridien in New Delhi, Trident in Agra, Ranthambhore Kothi in Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur Marriott Hotel in Jaipur, and Vivanta Kathmandu in Kathmandu.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours in various locations including Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, and Kathmandu.
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Transportation
Flights from Mumbai to Varanasi, Varanasi to Delhi, and Jaipur to Kathmandu (via Delhi). Train from Bharatpur to Sawai Madhopur.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Agra Fort, Amber Fort, Bouddahanath, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Durbar Square, Fatehpur Sikri, Hanuman Dhoka, Humayun's Tomb, Jaipur Walled City, Jantar Mantar, Patan, Qutab Minar, and the Taj Mahal.
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Small Group Discoveries
Small-Group Discoveries limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure, ensuring extra space and personalized experiences.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages not included in the itinerary.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into India and Nepal are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, 5 dinners
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Agra Fort|Amber Fort|Bouddhanath|Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus|Durbar Square|Fatehpur Sikri|Hanuman Dhoka|Humayun's Tomb|Jaipur Walled City|Jantar Mantar|Patan|Qutab Minar|Taj Mahal
Accommodation
Mumbai: Trident, Nariman Point; Varanasi: Taj Ganges, Varanasi; Delhi: Le Meridien New Delhi; Agra: Trident, Agra; Ranthambore National Park: Ranthambhore Kothi; Jaipur: Jaipur Marriott Hotel; Kathmandu: Vivanta Kathmandu.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes flights between Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, and Kathmandu, as well as a train journey to Ranthambore National Park and various drives between cities.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at various high-quality hotels such as Trident, Nariman Point in Mumbai, Taj Ganges in Varanasi, Le Meridien in New Delhi, Trident in Agra, Ranthambhore Kothi in Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur Marriott Hotel in Jaipur, and Vivanta Kathmandu in Kathmandu.
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What activities are included in Mumbai?
In Mumbai, you will join a Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city's famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. You will also witness Mumbai's tiffin lunch box delivery system, see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat), and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi.
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What can I expect to see in Varanasi?
In Varanasi, you will experience the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. The itinerary includes a flight to Varanasi and a day to explore the city.
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What are the highlights of the Delhi tour?
In Delhi, the sightseeing includes an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. You will also visit Jama Masjid and take a rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. Additionally, you will visit Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.
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What will I see in Agra?
In Agra, you will start your day with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. You will also visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar.
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What activities are planned in Ranthambore National Park?
In Ranthambore National Park, you will explore the park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. There will also be free time to relax between the game drives.
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What will I experience in Jaipur?
In Jaipur, you will travel to the city known as the 'Pink City' and have the opportunity to explore its rich history and culture.
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What are the key attractions in Kathmandu?
In Kathmandu, you will visit Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty, and the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess. You will also travel to Bouddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world, and visit Patan, stopping in Durbar Square.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily, 8 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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Is there an option for a smaller group tour?
Yes, Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. These tours include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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