Essence of India and Nepal

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Delhi Arrival

Welcome to India! Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll be greeted by a representative and transferred to your hotel. From the bustling bazaars and historic lanes of Old Delhi to the grand boulevards and monuments of New Delhi, this vibrant capital is a living tapestry of empires, dynasties, and cultures. Your journey begins in a city that has witnessed centuries of history, innovation, and reinvention — setting the perfect stage for the unforgettable adventure ahead.

Overnight in The Suryaa or similar.

Day 2: Delhi (B)

After breakfast, begin your Delhi sightseeing adventure. First, explore the majestic Red Fort with its impressive red sandstone architecture, a symbol of Mughal power. Then, hop on a rickshaw for a ride through the bustling streets of Old Delhi, visiting Chandni Chowk market and Khari Baoli spice market, and experiencing the local flavors and vibrant atmosphere. You'll also visit the Sis Ganj Sahib Sikh Temple, where you can witness and participate in the community kitchen.

Your tour continues with a visit to Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque with its grand architectural design. Next, explore Humayun's Tomb, a pioneering example of Mughal architecture. Drive past the grand government buildings of New Delhi, including the Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhawan. Conclude with a photo stop at India Gate, a war memorial honoring soldiers. Finish your day with a visit to the colorful and artistic Lodhi Art District.

Overnight in The Suryaa or similar.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra (B)

After breakfast, drive to Agra, a city renowned for the iconic Taj Mahal. Known for its impressive architectural heritage, Agra boasts a rich history with landmarks like the Agra Fort, built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1666 A.D., featuring exquisite buildings like Moti Masjid and Diwan-I-Am. The city's craftsmen, descendants of those from the Mughal era, continue the tradition of superb marble and soapstone inlay work. Upon arrival, you will transfer to your hotel before embarking on visits to Agra's historic sites, including a marble inlay factory.

Upon arrival, you will transfer to your hotel before embarking on visits to Agra’s historic sites, including a marble inlay factory. Later, enjoy a serene sunset visit to the Taj Mahal, where its white marble glows warmly beneath the colours of the Indian sky.

Overnight in Grand Mercure or similar.

Day 4: Agra to Ranthambore (B/ D)

After breakfast, drive to Ranthambore, stopping en route for a countryside excursion with a ride on a village Mercedes, locally called Jugaad. This unique vehicle takes you through grazing pastures and fields of wheat, mustard, coriander, and chilies, with opportunities to visit local homes and meet traditionally dressed villagers going about their daily lives.

Continue your journey to Ranthambore, home to one of North India’s largest and most renowned national parks. Spanning 392 sq km and dominated by the historic Ranthambore Fort, the park is known for its tiger population and diverse wildlife including leopards, hyenas, deer, sloth bears, and wild boar. Bordered by the Banas and Chambal rivers and dotted with lakes, it offers a rich landscape for both flora and fauna. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Ranthambhore Kothi or similar.

Day 5: Ranthambore (B/ D)

Early in the morning, embark on a safari in Ranthambore National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and population of tigers. The park, named after the historic Ranthambore fortress, spans 392 sq km and is situated between the Banas and Chambal rivers. In addition to tigers, you can spot leopards, hyenas, deer, langurs, civets, macaques, sloth bears, and more. After the safari, return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, visit a women's cooperative that creates handicrafts, and in the afternoon, enjoy another safari in the national park. Dinner at the hotel.

Overnight in Ranthambhore Kothi or similar.

Day 6: Ranthambore to Jaipur (B)

After breakfast, visit the Dastkar Project in Ranthambore, an inspiring initiative that supports local artisans and helps resettle communities displaced by the creation of Ranthambore National Park. Established in the late 1980s with the Ranthambore Foundation, it focuses on empowering women and reviving traditional crafts.

Later, drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, known as the Pink City for its distinct architecture and vibrant heritage. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, it was one of India’s first planned cities. On arrival, transfer to your hotel before enjoying a Pink Rickshaw ride through the city. Spend the rest of the day exploring bazaars, with optional evening activities like a Bollywood movie, palm reading, or a henna tattoo.

Overnight in Alsisar Haveli or similar.

Day 7: Jaipur (B/ D)

After an early breakfast, visit the bustling Doodh Mandi milk market at Subhash Chowk, interacting with farmers in traditional attire. Make a photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal Palace, then enjoy a cup of tea at a top chai shop in Jaipur. Next, take a jeep ride to the picturesque Amber Fort, exploring its impressive Hindu and Mughal architecture. Spend the evening touring the Old Bazaar, and later, enjoy a farewell dinner with a local Indian family at Suroth House, where you'll experience Indian culture up close - inclusive of one glass of Rum with Cola.

Overnight in Alsisar Haveli or similar.

Day 8: Jaipur to Delhi (B)

After breakfast, drive from Jaipur to Delhi, a journey of about 5–6 hours through Rajasthan’s countryside and into the bustling capital city. On arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Holiday Inn or similar.

Day 9: Kathmandu Arrival to Dhulikhel (B/ D)

After leisurely breakfast, you will be transferred to Delhi airport to board flight for Kathmandu. On arrival, you will be greeted and assisted by our representative before being transferred to Dhulikhel. Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, lies at 1,400 meters above sea level, surrounded by the four hills of Fulchowki, Chandragiri, Shivapuri, and Nagarjun, and is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. En route, enjoy the scenic drive as you leave the bustling city behind. Dhulikhel, perched at 1,600 meters in Kavrepalanchowk District, is famed for its panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, stretching from Cho Oyu in the east to Himalchuli in the west, and for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in. In the evening, enjoy a warm welcome dinner at the hotel accompanied by a pint of beer before spending the night in Dhulikhel.

Overnight in Dhulikhel Mountain Resort or similar.

Day 10: Dhulikhel to Kathmandu (B/ L)

After an early breakfast, set out on a gentle 4 km walk to Kavre Village, taking about 1.5 hours with only a slight altitude gain, making it an easy-grade walk. Begin with a 30-minute hike to Kali Temple, reached either by 1,000 stone steps or a forest trail. From the temple’s esplanade, take in breathtaking views of the Himalayas surrounding Dhulikhel and pause for tea or coffee. Continue with a 45-minute walk through plantations, village shops, and tea houses until you reach Kavre Village, where you can experience authentic rural life. Return by vehicle to your hotel for a short rest before checking out. On the way to Kathmandu, stop at Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for medieval art, temples, and crafts. Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square with its 55-window palace, marvel at Nyatapola Temple, and try traditional pottery at Pottery Square. After lunch, continue to Kathmandu for check-in and overnight stay.

Overnight in Aloft by Marriott or similar.

Day 11: Kathmandu (B/ L)

Begin your day with an optional early morning scenic flight over the Everest region, a once-in-a-lifetime experience offering breathtaking views of Mt. Everest and surrounding peaks from just 200 meters away. After breakfast, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, once the royal palace complex, filled with temples, courtyards, and monuments. Visit the Kumari Bahal, home of the Living Goddess, symbolizing divine energy, and see the striking idol of Kal Bhairava, carved from a single rock, representing Lord Shiva in his fierce form. Continue to Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO site rich with 17th-century temples, royal courtyards, and statues, reflecting the city’s artistic heritage. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a rare cultural interaction with an Ex-Kumari, who shares her unique experience of being revered as a living goddess in Nepalese tradition.

Overnight in Aloft by Marriott or similar.

Day 12: Kathmandu (B)

This morning, visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River just 6 km from central Kathmandu. Admire its pagoda-style architecture with a gilded roof and ornate silver doors, and observe rituals along the riverbanks, as non-Hindus are not permitted inside. Continue to Boudhanath, one of the world’s largest stupas and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, with its striking white dome, prayer wheels, and surrounding monasteries. Later, visit the Bamboo School, run by the Samta committee to provide affordable education for underprivileged youth, where you can interact with the children. The afternoon is at leisure, with an optional excursion to Swayambhunath, a 2,000-year-old Buddhist stupa perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, famous for its golden spire and the painted all-seeing eyes of the Buddha.

Overnight in Aloft by Marriott or similar.

Day 13: Kathmandu to Pokhara (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight to Pokhara. The valley of Pokhara, located 210 km from Kathmandu at an altitude ranging from 780 to 1350 m, is renowned for its rare combination of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, serene lakes, and lush landscapes. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake, the city’s main attraction and Nepal’s second largest lake. Its tranquil waters reflect the surrounding mountains, offering stunning views and peaceful boating. The vibrant Lakeside area, lined with shops, restaurants, and handicraft stalls, provides a lively atmosphere and is a popular gathering spot for travelers.

Overnight in Atihti Resort or similar.

Day 14: Pokhara (B)

Enjoy an engaging three-hour walk to the World Peace Pagoda, perched atop a hill on the southern shore of Phewa Lake. This serene pagoda features four Buddha statues facing each direction and offers sweeping views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara city. Next, visit Davis Falls, a dramatic waterfall that plunges into a deep, narrow canal, famously named after a tourist who tragically fell here. Explore the Tibetan Refugee Camp, where you can learn about the culture and history of the Tibetan diaspora and browse handcrafted jewelry, ornaments, carpets, and visit a local monastery. Conclude your day at the International Mountain Museum, which highlights the region’s mountaineering history and reveals fascinating details about Mount Everest.

Overnight in Atihti Resort or similar.

Day 15: Pokhara to Kathmandu (B/ D)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu and check in at your hotel upon arrival. Spend the rest of the day at leisure before enjoying a farewell dinner at a traditional local restaurant, accompanied by a cultural performance and a pint of beer. This evening offers a perfect way to celebrate the highlights of your journey and soak in the local atmosphere one last time.

Overnight in Aloft by Marriott or similar.

Day 16: Kathmandu Departure (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, bidding farewell to the Himalayas and the warmth of Nepal. As you leave with treasured memories of historic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural encounters, take with you the spirit of this remarkable journey — one that will stay with you long after you return home.

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