Incredible Nepal & India (4 Star Hotels)

Greetings to Nepal! Look out for the Travel Talk sign upon arrival at the terminal, as we'll be there to receive you from the airport and transport you to our hotel in Kathmandu. Join us at 6:30pm in the hotel lobby for a casual gathering with the tour guide and fellow group members. Following the meeting, you're welcome to participate in an optional group dinner.

We commence the day by discovering Kathmandu City, Swyambhunath, and Patan. Our initial destination will be Swayambhunath, an age-old religious edifice situated atop a hill within the Kathmandu Valley, featuring a Buddhist Stupa believed to exceed 2000 years in age. This hill also encompasses an array of small Chaityas and Pagoda-style temples. Our subsequent visit will be to Kathmandu City, renowned as Kantipur. During this visit, you will explore the residence of the Living Goddess, who acknowledges devotees' greetings from her temple balcony and Kasthamandap temple that lends its name to Kathmandu.In the afternoon, we venture to the historical city of Patan, formerly a kingdom of its own. The Patan Durbar Square showcases exceptional Newari urban architecture and boasts temples dedicated to Shiva, Krishna, Ganesh, and Vishnu, all frequented by worshippers. In the late afternoon, you have leisure time to explore the city.

We have an early start to drive for about 6 hours to reach the Pokhara after breakfast which is the second largest city in Nepal and enjoy the landscape on the way to Pokhara. Meet your trekking guide get prepared for the next day once all done you’ll be able to wander around the beautiful lake city known for its superb mountain views. It is an enchanting city nestled beneath the snow-crested Annapurna Massif in a tranquil valley and is the starting point for many of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations. The atmosphere on the shore of Phewa Lake is one of excited vitality as backpackers crowd the many bars and restaurants. At an elevation lower than Kathmandu and generally a few degrees warmer, Pokhara has a tropical feel to it and has the diversity of beautiful subtropical flora.

We begin our trekking expedition on the inaugural day, commencing with a private transport journey to Nayapul, the gateway to our destination, the Australian Camp. Situated atop picturesque hills, this camp provides an awe-inspiring panorama of the snow-capped peaks encompassing the Annapurna range, including Hiunchuli, Fish Tail, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu. Our path takes us on a gradual descent to Pothana, followed by a pause at Deurali for lunch. Post lunch, we embark on a gradual ascent leading us to Tolka, our overnight stop, where local lodges provide accommodations. Here, a splendid vista of Annapurna South and Himchuli mountains unfolds before your eyes.

Today marks the start of our trek's descent, treating you to vistas of the majestic Annapurna mountain range. As you journey onward, you'll traverse additional Gurung villages, affording you glimpses into their expansive farming communities. Continuing along the path, you'll arrive at the charming settlements of Pothana and Dhampus. Among the renowned tourist villages in western Nepal, Dhampus boasts awe-inspiring panoramic sights of the Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayan mountain ranges. The evening entails dinner and an overnight stay at a local lodge.

Embarking on an early morning departure, you'll have the opportunity to relish the vibrant sunrise casting hues upon the Himalayas. Subsequently, an uncomplicated downhill trek leads you to Phedi, traversing through rice fields and quaint cottages along the way. Upon your arrival in Phedi village, our vehicle will be ready to transport you back to Pokhara and onward as we continue our journey to Chitwan.

We have full day of exciting jungle activities today. The best way to reach the national park is by a jungle safari where you’ll end up at Chitwan National Park. This is considered one of the richest wildlife areas in Asia and boasts the last and largest remaining area of tall grassland habitat. Not to be compared with the wide open spaces of Africa, the intimacy of the search and discovery of Asian wildlife in its dense habitat is considered by many travellers to be equally rewarding and exciting.

Following breakfast, we return to Kathmandu by vehicle and transfer to airport for our flight to Delhi. Enjoy some personal leisure time and get ready for the second leg of your discovery!

At around 8:30 am today, you'll begin your sightseeing tour in Delhi with your guide. Old Delhi unveils the enchanting charm of India's history, culture, and traditions, while the captivating New Delhi showcases the modern face of the country. Begin with a visit to Jama Masjid, one of Asia's largest mosque. Explore the bustling Chandni Chowk, Asia's largest wholesale market, teeming with shops, bazaars, and vibrant life. Drive past the magnificent Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Pay respects at Raj Ghat, a simple yet powerful memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Continuing to New Delhi, witness the British legacy with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Qutub Minar. The Imperial Delhi part of the tour includes a drive past India Gate, a monumental war memorial arch, as well as the Parliament House, Secretariat buildings, and the Vice Regal Palace.

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll embark on a scenic 4-hour drive to Agra. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, get ready for the optional "Discovering Oriental Agra" program, designed to connect you with the essence of this incredible city. Or, join jour guide for an orientation walk among the highlights of Agra. For an eco-friendly and immersive experience, the tour is conducted using battery-operated rickshaws. Your journey will encompass various significant places in the city. You'll rewind to the time of Emperor Shahjehan at Dara Shikoh's library, where intellectual and literary conversations thrived. You'll also visit the birthplace of the esteemed poet Mirza Ghalib in the Kala Mahal locality, as well as the headquarters of the Radhasoami faith at Dayalbagh. Other highlights include the Mankameshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the country, and several churches, including the historic Akbar Church built by Emperor Akbar in 1598.

In the early morning, embark on a visit to the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal stands as an epitome of Mughal architecture and a poignant symbol of India's rich history. Constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century as an expression of love for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this grand monument is undeniably one of the world's wonders. Its breathtaking marble inlay work, particularly when observed up close, is truly astounding, leaving visitors mesmerized by its brilliance. After the Taj Mahal visit, return to your hotel for breakfast and enjoy a leisurely morning to relax. Later, continue your explorations with a visit to the Agra Fort and the Tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah, a remarkable Mughal mausoleum constructed in honor of Mumtaz Mahal's grandfather. The tomb is affectionately known as the "jewel box" or the "Baby Taj."

After enjoying breakfast, your journey continues towards Ranthambore with an enroute stop at the remarkable Fatehpur Sikri. Situated in the province of Uttar Pradesh, Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. This world heritage site boasts one of the best-preserved collections of Mughal architecture in India. Marvel at the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque, the intricately designed palaces constructed for Emperor Akbar's wives, the grand public and private discussion halls, and the vast ornamental pool. After a captivating exploration of Fatehpur Sikri, continue your journey towards the mesmerizing Ranthambore.

Start your day with an early morning Game safari at Ranthambore National Park (from 6:00 am to 9:30 am) on a Shared Canter Safari. After breakfast, continue your journey towards the enchanting "Pink City - Jaipur," which is approximately 160 kilometers away, taking around 3.30 hours from Ranthambore. Upon reaching Jaipur, check-in at your hotel and take some time to unwind. In your leisure time, you have the option to join a delightful Cooking Lesson. Early evening, embark on a cooking lesson with a local Indian family. What to Expect: No trip to India is complete without experiencing its rich culinary heritage with a local family. Immerse yourself in this exclusive time with your host, discovering their secret ancestral and family recipes, age-old culinary techniques, and health-conscious ingredients. Delve into the specialty of Jaipuri cooking art and gain insights into various aspects of Indian lifestyle. This unique opportunity allows you to learn to prepare a complete Indian meal with your host. It goes beyond just cooking; it is also about enjoying an unforgettable communal dining experience in the comfort of an Indian home. The warmth of the Indian hospitality combined with the delicious flavors of the cuisine promises an exceptional and memorable experience.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a full-day city tour led by your private guide. During the morning, explore the city's highlights, starting with the impressive City Palace. This grand complex boasts exquisite palaces, gardens, courtyards, and intricately carved doorways. Stroll to the adjacent Jantar Mantar, an Astronomical Observatory built in the 18th century. Don't miss the opportunity for a photo-stop at the picturesque Patrika Gate. As an optional activity, in the late afternoon, indulge in a bazaar walk coupled with local food tasting. In 1727, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh decided to shift the Kachwaha rulers' bastion from Amber to a larger and more spacious capital.

As per your designated flight schedule today, you will receive assistance for your transfer to the airport in order to catch your flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival in Varanasi, arrangements will be made to transfer you to your hotel for check-in. The standard check-in time at the hotel is 2:00 PM, but an early check-in can be arranged for an additional fee. If time permits: In the evening, you can partake in a significant experience by attending a profound Aarti ceremony. This event offers a spiritual connection as you observe devoted Hindus participating in the "Aarti Puja," using illuminated lamps. The leading priests stand on a wooden platform near the water's edge. Accompanied by the recitation of Sanskrit mantras and the harmonious sounds of cymbals and drums, the river is honored with offerings like flowers, incense, sandalwood, milk, and vermilion.

Embark on a morning boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the breathtaking sunrise. As you drift on the waters, you'll have the opportunity to observe the Hindu way of life unfolding along the river's banks, known as Ghats. Return to the hotel to enjoy your breakfast. Later in the morning, delve into a Varanasi exploration that encompasses a visit to various significant sites. This includes the Bharat Mata Temple, housing a sizable marble relief map of India, the Durga Temple, and the contemporary Tulsi Manas Temple. Following breakfast, check out from your accommodation and proceed to Sarnath. This location stands as one of India's four principal Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It was here, after achieving enlightenment at Bodhgaya, that Buddha, known as the 'Awakened One,' delivered his inaugural sermon.

Check out around 4:00 AM and directly proceed to Varanasi railway station for boarding the day train to Khajuraho via BJU ADI EXPRESS, scheduled from 5:00 AM to 12:25 PM. Upon reaching Khajuraho railway station, you will be transferred to your designated hotel. Later in the evening, enjoy the light and sound show at the western group of temples, which vividly depicts the history of the illustrious Chandela Kings and narrates the evolution of these exceptional temples from the 10th Century till the present era.

In the morning, explore the Eastern Group of Temples situated around a serene lake, where the prominence lies on Jain temples within this cluster. The sculptures within this ensemble carry a similar theme to those in the western group, yet they draw more from everyday life. Afterward, proceed to the Western complex of the Khajuraho temple group, home to the most significant temples in Khajuraho. Notably, the Kandariya Mahadeo temple, the largest in size, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, towering at a height of 31 meters. The intricate depictions of deities on the main shrine are widely acclaimed.

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will then embark on a drive to Orchha, a journey of approximately 2 hours, and complete the check-in process at your hotel. In the late afternoon, venture to the Ram Raja Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site also referred to as the Orchha Temple. Remarkably unique in India, this temple honors Lord Ram in the form of a king within a palace setting. With its marble courtyard and vibrant walls, this exquisite temple holds a captivating history. The idols initially intended for the grand Chaturbhuj Temple were originally placed on the ground where the Ram Raja Temple stands today. Interestingly, once positioned on the ground, the idols could not be moved. Participate in the evening aarti ceremony at the temple, accompanied by fellow devotees.

After having breakfast, explore the multi-tiered Jahangir Mahal, constructed in 1606 within the fort premises. The Raj Mahal stands out for its intricate murals, while the Rai Praveen Mahal graces the gardens of Anand Mahal. Orchha boasts temples that hold immense architectural charm and are certainly worth a visit. Among these, the Ram Raja Temple, Laxmi Narain Temple showcasing vibrant frescoes, and the Chaturbhuj Temple are particularly noteworthy. Later in the day, you will be transferred to Jhansi station to catch the Gatiman Express train scheduled from 15:05 to 19:30 hours, headed for Delhi. Upon reaching Delhi station, you will be escorted to your hotel.

Get seamless support for your transfer to Delhi airport today, ensuring a hassle-free boarding experience for your onward journey. Bid farewell to spectacular India until next time!