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See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you.
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you.
Discover the highlights of North India and Nepal, from pulsating Delhi to the highest mountains on Earth. The cultural wonders on this trip are numerous: sunrise at the Taj Mahal, the pink city of Jaipur, a dawn boat ride on the misty Ganges and a visit to Lumbini, birthplace of Buddha. That’s complemented by natural experiences, including scanning Chitwan National Park for rhinos and gazing at the mighty Himalaya, to create an unforgettable adventure in these two diverse destinations.
Begin your adventure in pulsating Delhi. It’s a city split in two, with historic Old Delhi in the north and the nation’s capital, New Delhi, in the south.
Around 6pm, we gather as a group to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. Your tour leader then ensures a big welcome by arranging a group dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Want more time in Delhi? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative
Accommodation: Rockland Hotel (or similar)
Head out after breakfast for a tour of Old Delhi, starting outside Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, before being guided through the narrow streets of Old Delhi, through the Kinari Bazar (or we can explore by rickshaw, additional cost). We finish at Jama Masjid and learn about the history of the building. Those interested can enter the mosque, let your tour leader know if you’d like to and they can assist with arranging (fees may apply).
Continue exploring the city in the afternoon, beginning with New Delhi, visiting the tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun, which was built by his widow Hamida Banu Begam and is now a World Heritage site. We then drive past fine colonial buildings, including Rashtrapati Bhawan, a 320-acre (130ha) estate built by British architect Edwin Lutyens in 1931, which comprises the official residence of the President of India; Parliament House; and India Gate, a memorial dedicated to soldiers who died during the First World War.
Return to the hotel late afternoon with the evening free.
Accommodation: Rockland Hotel (or similar)
We head on the road after breakfast for our drive (approximately five to seven hours, depending on traffic) to the Pink City of Jaipur.
On arrival, we check into the hotel and can relax for the evening.
Accommodation: Vesta Maurya Palace (or similar)
Enjoy a full day to explore Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and one of the most attractive cities in India. Built in the late 18th century, it is a planned city of broad sandstone avenues that were later painted pink.
Early risers can join a dawn walking tour as the Pink City begins to wake. Visiting different chowkris (blocks) within the walled city, we can see the local people start their day and watch the rituals that take place in early morning markets and small temples. We can also interact with different artisan communities, while also sampling local food and drink.
We return to the hotel in time to join anyone preferring a more leisurely start for a later breakfast and to freshen up, before the whole group heads out mid-morning.
We visit one of the most intriguing sites in India, Jantar Mantar (Jaipur Observatory), an assembly of immense marble-and-brass astronomical instruments in a pleasant garden. We also see the impressive landmark, the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds).
Then travel just outside the main city to the Amber Palace, an imposing hilltop fort above a lake with large courtyards, finely decorated interiors and a Chamber of Mirrors. The evening is free for you to relax.
Accommodation: Vesta Maurya Palace (or similar)
Begin with an early breakfast before driving (four to five hours) to Agra.
We arrive this afternoon and start our half-day sightseeing tour, first visiting Agra Fort, whose mighty sandstone walls enclose the white-marble Pearl Mosque and the palaces, halls, courtyards and fountains of Emperor Akbar’s sons and successors: Jehangir and Shah Jahan.
Later, we visit the Taj Mahal for sunset, when the white-marble exterior is illuminated by the soft light and the crowds are smaller. After admiring it from the outside, we head inside, with a chance to explore the beautiful inner chambers and mausoleum, while our tour leader shares the history of this New World Wonder.
Accommodation: Taj Vilas (or similar)
Rise early to reach Agra station for our 6am Vande Bharat Express train to Varanasi. Rest and relax on board before we arrive around 1pm and transfer to our hotel.
On the river Ganges, Varanasi is one of the holiest cities in India and stands at the centre of the Hindu universe. As such, the city lives and breathes Hinduism: there are thousands of pilgrims, wandering holy men (Sadhus), religious elders and casual visitors. There is time to visit emporiums specialising in silks and brocades or maybe take a massage by the riverbanks.
In the afternoon, we visit the nearby Sarnath Temple. The main monument here is the Dhamekh Stupa, the spot where Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon. The evening is free to relax.
Accommodation: Hotel Surya (or similar)
Upgrade to a premium room with a balcony today – speak to your sales representative for more details
Varanasi, on the Ganges, is one of the holiest cities in India and a key destination in Hinduism: there are thousands of pilgrims, wandering holy men (Sadhus), religious leaders and casual visitors. Explore the narrow lanes and many temples or watch the Hindu ceremonies that take place around the clock.
We rise early this morning, just before dawn, and take a boat onto the Ganges. On this trip, we see the city wake up and the extraordinary ghats (the steps leading down to the river), where thousands of Hindu pilgrims come every morning to submerge themselves in the river’s holy waters. In the evening, witness an aarti ceremony from the banks, in which priests wave lamps, chant and ring bells and devotees join the rituals.
Accommodation: Hotel Surya (or similar)
Upgrade to a premium room with a balcony today – speak to your sales representative for more details
We leave the hotel at 6am and board a private bus for our long drive to Nepal. We drive across the northern plains, passing through a few towns and lots of villages. Leave our bus at the Saunali border and walk (approximately 1,640ft/500m) through customs and immigration to Nepal.
In Nepal, we enter the terai, the narrow plain running along the southern breadth of the country. We drive (approximately one hour) to Lumbini, birthplace of the Buddha, where we spend the night. The total driving time today is approximately 12 hours.
Accommodation: Buddha Maya hotel (or similar)
Early this morning there is a short (optional) rickshaw ride around Lumbini gardens. The Buddha was born here, and the area is being developed into a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists from all over the world.
Travelling east and parallel to the mountains, we reach Chitwan (approximately a seven to eight-hour drive), where we spend two nights. The park, with jungle and thick forest, was once a royal hunting ground but was made a conservation area in 1973. During your stay, you can enjoy an optional ox-cart ride in Tharu village or an evening dance performance, both providing a glimpse into the fascinating lives of the local people.
Accommodation: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar)
Chitwan National Park and the surrounding forest cover 356sqmi (923sqkm) of the terai and afford excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities. Here you have an excellent chance of seeing Indian one-horned rhinos, sambar and chital deer, langur and rhesus monkeys, mongooses, jackals, otters and crocodiles. The more elusive animals include tigers, leopards, sloth bears and Indian bison. More than 500 bird species have also been recorded here.
Wildlife activities are managed and escorted by experienced naturalist guides and included in your stay is a jeep safari and dug-out canoe excursion. Birdwatching outings can also be arranged.
Accommodation: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar)
Today’s journey to Pokhara is 87mi (140km) and takes five to six hours. We follow the gorge of the Narayani River and soon we are in the Himalaya foothills. The scenery changes dramatically from the forests and farmlands of the terai to steep, terraced hills. As we near Pokhara, we begin to see the magnificent Annapurna mountains, part of the Himalaya range. At only 3,280ft (1,000m), among semi-tropical plants and with a delightfully warm climate, it is much closer to the main Himalaya peaks than Kathmandu. Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Peak) dominates the skyline, especially on a clear morning. We stay in a simple hotel near Phewa Lake, with a wide choice of restaurants and other facilities nearby.
Accommodation: Dahlia Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Head into the hills before dawn for an even better views of the peaks. An early start is required for the clearest view; once there, the whole Annapurna range can be seen with virtually no intervening hills.
We start by driving (approximately 40 minutes) to Sarangkot; from there, it’s a short walk to the remains of a hilltop fort that overlooks the lake – one of the best viewpoints for Machhapuchhare, the most treasured mountain in the region.
After enjoying time here, walk back towards Pokhara, descending steps and trail paths, finishing just before at Pame (approximately 2hr 30min walk), where you can stop to enjoy your packed breakfast before a short transfer back to our hotel.
A packed breakfast will be arranged by your tour leader for anyone wishing to take part in the walk down to Pame from Sarangkot. If you choose not to join the walk, a transfer will be arranged from Sarangkot back to Pokhara, returning to the hotel for breakfast. Please let your tour leader know the day before if you do not wish to join the full morning walk.
For many, Pokhara is a place to relax, enjoying a spot beside the beautiful lake; it’s been a busy trip, so if you prefer to skip the morning activity and enjoy the time at your leisure, you’re more than welcome to do so. This afternoon, sit back and take in the surroundings or perhaps rent a rowboat or bicycle for a few hours exploring the lake at a leisurely pace.
Accommodation: Dahlia Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Leave early for the long drive to Kathmandu, along the Chinese-built road running parallel to the main Himalaya range. The distance is only 125mi (200km) but it is a slow climb through the mountains and ongoing road-widening construction along the route plus some bumpy conditions in places mean the journey takes 9 to 10 hours. The views, however, are stunning as we follow the Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers, passing numerous villages and terraces stretching up the hillside. We arrive in Kathmandu this evening and check into our centrally located hotel.
There is the option to book a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, avoiding the long journey. This can be done in advance or during the trip, for an additional supplement. Please speak to your sales representative for more information.
Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)
We have today to explore Kathmandu and the valley. There is a half-day sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath, the most important Hindu temple in the valley, and Bodnath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. The rest of the time is free for individual exploration. You may like to visit Durbar Square with its old royal palace and intricately carved temples, or Swayambhunath, a hilltop stupa home to hundreds of macaques.
Kathmandu also offers many shopping opportunities: clothes, trinkets, Tibetan and Nepalese handicrafts and superb bookshops. It also has a wide variety of restaurants serving some of the best food from the sub-continent and you can find wonderful pizzas and apple pie.
Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)
The adventure comes to an end this morning at check-out. Unless, of course, you’d like to join our exciting extension, in which you spend four days hiking in the Annapurna region, taking in magnificent mountain views as you pass through Gurung villages. This extension would commence from day 13, starting in Pokhara. Speak to your sales representative to book.
Thursday 26 Feb 2026 to Thursday 12 Mar 2026
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
CAD 5320 (excl. flights)
Holi Festival
Sunday 29 Mar 2026 to Sunday 12 Apr 2026
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5130 (excl. flights)
Sunday 11 Oct 2026 to Sunday 25 Oct 2026
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5130 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1282 deposit
Sunday 01 Nov 2026 to Sunday 15 Nov 2026
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5320 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1330 deposit
Thursday 05 Nov 2026 to Thursday 19 Nov 2026
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5320 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1330 deposit
Diwali Festival
Sunday 15 Nov 2026 to Sunday 29 Nov 2026
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5130 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1282 deposit
Sunday 22 Nov 2026 to Sunday 06 Dec 2026
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5320 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1330 deposit
Sunday 13 Dec 2026 to Sunday 27 Dec 2026
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5510 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1377 deposit
Sunday 07 Feb 2027 to Sunday 21 Feb 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 14 Feb 2027 to Sunday 28 Feb 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Thursday 25 Feb 2027 to Thursday 11 Mar 2027
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 07 Mar 2027 to Sunday 21 Mar 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Tuesday 16 Mar 2027 to Tuesday 30 Mar 2027
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Tuesday 23 Mar 2027 to Tuesday 06 Apr 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 28 Mar 2027 to Sunday 11 Apr 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 11 Apr 2027 to Sunday 25 Apr 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 10 Oct 2027 to Sunday 24 Oct 2027
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Tuesday 26 Oct 2027 to Tuesday 09 Nov 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 31 Oct 2027 to Sunday 14 Nov 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Thursday 04 Nov 2027 to Thursday 18 Nov 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 14 Nov 2027 to Sunday 28 Nov 2027
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 21 Nov 2027 to Sunday 05 Dec 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 05 Dec 2027 to Sunday 19 Dec 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5415 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1353 deposit
Sunday 12 Dec 2027 to Sunday 26 Dec 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
CAD 5605 (excl. flights)
Book with CAD 1401 deposit
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View Details
In this cultural adventure through northern India and Nepal, we spend most nights in hotels and two nights in lodges.
The accommodations typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable places we stay on this trip.
Varanasi: Hotel Surya
In a property built for King Kaiser of Nepal in 1818, this 75-room hotel has a long history of housing VIPs. It now offers award-winning gardens plus a swimming pool, restaurant specialising in Indian cuisine, and the Sol Haveli Bar, which serves handcrafted cocktails.
Chitwan: Green Mansions Jungle Resort
On the edge of a community forest, Green Mansions offers traditional cottages encompassed by nature. The highlight may well be their in-house team of naturalists, who bring the landscape to life with their expertise. Other pluses include a pool with half-sunken loungers and a multi-cuisine restaurant where dishes include produce from the hotel garden.
Worth knowing
A four-day trek is the perfect introduction to hiking in Nepal and can easily be done towards the end of your main tour. The route takes us through the foothills of the Annapurna region, one of the most spectacular of the Himalaya massifs. We also pass through Gurung villages among the steeply terraced fields with splendid mountain vistas.
The detailed itinerary is here, or speak to your sales representative for more details.
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It is not a physically demanding adventure, but some days are long, such as the drives between Delhi and Jaipur (approximately five to seven hours), Jaipur and Agra (approximately five to six hours), Varanasi and Lumbini (approximately 12 hours), and Pokhara and Kathmandu (approximately 10 hours). The stunning scenery, however, compensates for this. We also have some early starts to take advantage of the daylight. Most of the roads are in fairly good condition but you should be prepared for a few rougher sections, particularly between Pokhara and Kathmandu. The trains are a fun way to travel and meet Indian people, although delays are always possible.
Walks: A short hike is included in Pokhara where you are driven to a lookout point for spectacular views before descending some steep (in places) village trails and stone steps to Pame. From here, we take a return transfer to Pokhara. Due to the nature of the trails, we recommend wearing walking boots, particularly in wet weather, but sports shoes are not a problem if preferred. The walk is approximately 2hr 30min of constant decent, mostly down steps; if you would prefer not to join, the tour leader can arrange a transfer for a supplement (price subject to the number of people requiring a transfer), which can be paid locally.
Monuments: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India, including the Taj Mahal, and very occasionally this may mean work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published so it is not possible to forewarn when work is taking place.
Holi and Diwali festivals: Some departures take place during Holi and Diwali. They are great to witness and some very minor itinerary alterations may be made locally to make the most of these occasions. Holi celebrations typically involve people throwing coloured water at each other and smearing powder on each other’s faces. This is accompanied by dancing, music and traditional Holi sweets, such as ghujiya (sweet dumplings). During Diwali, the festival of lights, people typically illuminate their houses, shops and streets, and celebrate with fireworks.
Start hotel: Rockland Hotel, B207, Outer Ring Rd, Block B, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi, Delhi 110019
Phone: +91 11 4272 2222
Recommended arrival time: We recommend you arrive at the start hotel no later than 4pm, there will be a welcome briefing with the leader around 6pm. Check‐in times are normally from around midday.
Airport: Delhi Airport (DEL)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 35 minutes’ drive from the airport. We provide free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
We provide free departure transfers for all customers to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) from the end hotel.
Unless specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers may be shared with other customers of ours on the same flight, or on a flight with similar arrival times. All those taking advantage of the free airport transfers must provide full flight details for both arrival and departure in advance.
India
To avoid possible problems at immigration, make sure your passport is valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of entry into India.
Travellers from the UK, US, CA and EU normally need a visa to enter India. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/india
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/india
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/India.html
Travellers eligible for an e-visa, which includes those from the UK, US, CA and EU, can apply at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.
For more information on applying for your Indian visa, including details required for your start hotel and local reference contacts, please click here: Indian visa information
Please note, for the overland India to Nepal boarder crossing, you will arrive at the Sanauli boarder and the group will disembark the bus and proceed on foot to the India immigration office. There, the immigration officer will stamp the India leaving date on your passport. After, the group will walk across the border and enter Nepal’s Belahiya (Bhairahawa) Immigration point where you can follow the visa on arrival process.
New Digital Arrival Card
Travellers from the UK, US, EU and Canada must also complete a Digital Arrival Card. This can be filled online up to 72 hours before arrival via the official Indian visa website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/. This is separate from the Indian e-visa process and this remains the same. Physical cards will remain at the arrival airport until 1 April 2026, at which point the Digital Arrival Card will be made mandatory.
Nepal
You can obtain your visa in advance or on arrival. The Immigration Department of Nepal has suspended visas on arrival for certain nationalities – please check if this applies to you with your nearest embassy or consulate.
Visa in advance
Apply for this through your local consulate or embassy. Further details on this option can be found here:
When applying for your visa in advance, the Nepalese government has an online application system (see links above for more info), but it is currently only accepting payments through Nepalese payment channels. Once the online form is completed, the applicant is required to print out the form and either send it, together with the passport, to the embassy, or attend in person.
Visa on arrival
Allow the equivalent of US$24 per day for meals not included. You can eat out very cheaply in India and Nepal, but if you go to more expensive restaurants, you will spend more than the suggested amount. In most towns there is a good choice between Indian, Chinese and Western food. If you are a vegetarian, India and Nepal are probably two of the best destinations you can visit. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A (large!) bottle of beer is approximately US$4.80. Drinking water is provided in large containers in our vehicle, so please bring a refillable water bottle with you. Where meals are not included, the leader will encourage people to try certain restaurants and street food vendors. They can make recommendations that will boost small businesses and celebrate local specialties. In India, we can even see how some food and drinks, such as masala chai (tea), samosa (mashed potato snacks), jalebe (Indian doughnuts) and lassi (yoghurt drink), are made.
From October to April, the days are normally warm to hot and nights cool or mild. Humidity is very low with little or no rain.
In March, April and October, it can get very hot during the day. Evenings in Delhi and Kathmandu can be surprisingly cool.
The summer months in North India and Nepal are hot and humid with monsoon season in July and August. Heavy downpours during the monsoon typically last for a couple of hours, bringing relief from the heat and humidity of previous months.
It gets very cold in the early mornings and evenings in December to February, so warm clothes are essential. Fog is also a possibility during this period. Please note, nightly temperatures in Kathmandu can be very cold and only just above freezing in December and January.
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
You’ll also find Thriving Nature, Thriving People moments across our trips. These experiences are often a highlight of your adventure, while also benefiting the natural world or local communities.
This trip supports local initiatives in this region through our Foundation’s Himalayan Community Project.
This is a great trip as you get to see all the best spots in North India and Nepal, there are some long drives over bumpy roads in Nepal especially. Prepare fro some longer drives but this allows you to see the country side and get away from the larger...
Seeing Taj Mahal, what an jaw - dropping experience to see it in person !!
Jatin our leader was amazing and very accommodating, he always told us about the next day activities and what to expect.
Bring a chain and lock for the train journey, you can purchase there if needed. Bring comfortable walking shoes as we do a lot of walks around the old forts and palaces.
What a trip. The variety of once in a lifetime experiences is mind-blowingly. Manic Dehli, the Taj Mahal, mysterious and atmospheric Varanasi, the chill of Nepal and the views of the Himalayas. It will all live with me forever. Amazing trip!
Dusk and dawn on the Ganges. I will never be able to describe how mystical and beautiful it was. Varanasi is a city you feel rather than see. Loved it.
Jatin was just brilliant. Generous with his time and knowledge. Always kept us safe and informed. Allowed me to relax and just enjoy these two wonderful countries.
If you get a chance fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The drive is long and very uncomfortable and loses you a whole day in the capital.
A fascinating visit to very different cultures and the mix, interaction between the different religions as well as peoples sense of dress and self made it a very interesting and safe place to be in. The subtle differences between India and Nepal were also very interesting
Probably the Taj Mahal from a distance in the early morning mists, very ethereal, but the Red Fort was also exceptional. The most unexpected and so equally fascinating place however was probably the Jaipur Observatory. It looks like a modern science park to start with but when you realise when it was built and how accurate the 'clocks' are it is incredible
Our group leader was Jatin Bamsal. He was very good, knew a lot about the places we visited, was extremely helpful with one guest who had her suitcase damaged on arrival, listened to the things we said we wanted to do and although a bit over cautious on some of the slightly harder activities ie the walk down from Sarangkot was very good at finding interesting artisans not listed on the trip notes. As our sleeper train was 6 hours late he was also able to suggest interesting things to do away from the rather bleak station during the waiting period.He was also very good at advising on what to eat to stay healthy and as I was doing the Annapurna Extension had some very good comments about that trip which are not available on your trip notes
If Exodus tries to book you into the Hotel Pooja Palace for your stay in Delhi, don't let them, a very sad start to an otherwise good holiday. Both Delhi and Kathmandu are quite polluted, If you have any respiratory issues take a good mask for both cities. Maybe wait until later in 2025 to do this trip as although the roads are improving there is still a massive amount of work going on so some of the more scenic routes are currently marred by the extensive road works.
Why are you using the Hotel Pooja Palace? It looks and feels like a student hostel and is in fact very close to some student facilities. It has no atmosphere, it is just about clean, it has a garden bar which barely operates except to serve a minimal breakfast outside in February, there does seem to be some sort of internal eating area with signs up saying no external food can be consumed on the premises and the hotel staff (who were all very pleasant) seem to sleep in their uniforms on the reception floor; literally. There is no where a single traveller might hope to meet up with the rest of the group
You have already seen that this is an excellent trip with a wide range of experiences that allow a real immersion in the local cultures. I will, therefore focus below on the optional elements of the excursion.
Varanasi; seeing the devotees on the ghats alongside the Ganges was fascinating and moving. We were particularly lucky because our guide, Jatin, took us to view the evening Aarti ceremony from the river, which was not part of the advertised itinerary.
Jatin was excellent. Always willing to accommodate the group, quick to respond to unexpected situations and a calm hand on the tiller throughout. He was knowledgeable about the sites we visited, warm in his interactions and reassuringly professional.
We would highly recommend the trekking extension. The suggestion that it is suitable for weekend walkers might be a little misleading as the trails consist of steep, long climbs and ascents on rough stone steps. That said, the distances are relatively short and the pace gentle. The experience of seeing the mountains and experiencing something of village life more than made up for the effort required, and the teahouses were great fun. Do it if you can. On the other hand, it's difficult to recommend the Everest flight. I was hoping for epic views and photographs and took a wide lens to take on the hoped-for immensity of the Himalayas. In the event, the flight path was distant from the mountains and I was glad of a long lens to make them look closer. Even then, the windows were small, dirty and misty and the shots I took were disappointing. I do appreciate that some find the experience a highlight, but for me, the trek gave a much better sense of the Himalayas. We found a trip to the Monkey Temple later in the day to be far more worthwhile and considerably less expensive.
India - Visa - until India changes the visa process for UK citzens to that of the rest of the world - DO NOT GO - problems wrong details delays and excessive costs - Indian government obviously does not want British Tourists. Our trip was due to have 12 people...
Taj Mahal is as beautiful as imagined - and only things you notice when you actually see it in person. In a different way everest is just as beautiful
India - Visa - until India changes the visa process for UK citzens to that of the rest of the world - DO NOT GO - problems wrong details delays and excessive costs - Indian government obviously does not want British Tourists. Our trip was due to have 12 people only 6 managed to get the visa in time. If the indian Government says they fixed it do not believe it, there should be no difference in the visa application to that of the rest of the Europe, America Australia etc Nepal - if your trip involves a lot of long drives - do not go, as the country has excessive road works going on at the moment, understandable given earthquake damages - a 200km journey took 10 hours - we had 3 journeys which each took most of the day to travel which eats into the holiday. I suggest waiting 3 years at least till the works substantially finished
there was 7 visits to art and craft shops during the trip and they dont try and sell you things!
This trip was a whirlwind from start to finish. Such amazing sights sounds and experiences. The contrast between historical Forts, spiritual sights, wildlife and natural wonders was amazing. The travel however was challenging at times.
How do you pick one when comparing the sunrises, so mny sunrises; over the Taj Mahal, the Ganges at Varanasi, white rhinos in the wild, Lumbini, The Annapurnas , or a flight over Everest. I have never done so many things before breakfast!
We have come to expect great things of Exodus tour leaders and Jatin was no exception. He was punctual, knowledgeable, and sensitive to the needs of every traveller. He was challenged by many changes in the trip since it was last undertaken pre-covid and he provided a professionally and positive response to each one.
The road-building challenges were very difficult at times. We spent many more hours travelling because of slow moving traffic and the endless landslides and potholes. This led to many bruises, headaches and backache! It also left some travellers with coughs and sore throats because of the dusty conditions. I would have delayed the trip for several more years had l known the extent of the upheaval and disruption. The trip was amazing but the travel did detract from the experience at times.
Given the road conditions l would like to extend a huge thankyou to the drivers along our journey. Skillful and determinedly navigating the diggers, aggregate and cows!
A brilliant trip capturing all the chaos, filth, colour and magic of India & Nepal . The memories are too many to detail but will last a lifetime. Personally I loved every day- I stayed healthy throughout sticking to a vegetarian diet and using loads of anti bacterial hand gel....
The early morning walk to the holy river Ganga at Varanasi . The sights, smells, sounds, colour & sheer numbers of devoted Hindus was more magical than anything I have ever seen.
Jatin was excellent all round - efficient, thoughtful, calming and warm towards us all. I could not fault him & highly recommend him.
See above... re bus journeys & taking lots of anti- bacterial hand gel. Drink lots of water - it really helps you stay well & avoid dehydration
This trip is described as leisurely - it’s certainly not physically demanding, but the long days travelling chaotic roads & early starts do make it quite strenuous! So be prepared.
An amazing and enlightening journey with a great group of people. We saw both city and countrywide and visited many incredible landmarks along the way. We learnt lots about India it's religion and culture. Lead by the most caring and considerate guide.
Sunrise over the Annapurna Mountains and paragliding from Sunrise Peak.
Jatin was wonderful, preparing us for each part of the trip by explaining what should/ might happen and what we should do. He looked after the whole group so well and made the trip stress free.
Go with an open mind. Be prepared for a lot of travelling. Take plenty of listening material for the time on the coach, the roads are too bumpy for reading and you can watch India go by while you listen. Noise cancelling headphones are a bonus.
Well done Exodus the trip far exceeded our expectations!
Concise itinerary of some key sights in Northern India and Nepal. Varied sights covering important Moghal, Buddhist, Hindu sites, mixed with wildlife, rural landscapes, lakeside resort and Himalayan vistas. Good pace, not too rushed, not too many bus trips, chance to experience overnight rail journey. Good standard of hotels, good...
Seeing Varanasi in all it's intensity ; driving through rural Bihar and seeing all village life on the road, the paranama of Everest on a mountain flight ; the energy of Kathmandu, great end to the trip
Mayank was outstanding : incredable knowledge, good communicator, ever helpful, always going the 'extra mile' to solve problems, and good company at meal times with an easy, natural manner.
India is an assault on your senses - come with an open mind and flexible attitude, it will grip you like no other country. Nepal is more chilled, nice contrast to India but people and mountains will want you to return.
Ask for Mayank
After a fair amount of research into which trip/company to select, I opted for this one. I opted for this trip for a few reasons - I'd previously done another excellent trip with Exodus, only 1 overnight train (just enough!), the itinerary sounded fascinating with some different places included to...
So many to mention - a true sensory experience. Varanasi was a huge highlight - people watching, the Ganges, the Ghats and the various ceremonies we saw - including beautiful weddings. The mountain scenery in Nepal was breathtaking - including the drives to get to Pokhara and Kathmandu, the Pokhara paragliding experience and Everest flight from Kathmandu. The Pashupatinath complex and Bodnath temple in Kathmandu. Learning about the Hindu and Buddhist history, beliefs and traditions was fascinating (including the Bodhgaya stay and day trips). Finally, our 13 strong group and Jatin were very special people to share this experience and adventure with.
Jatin was absolutely brilliant - this would have been a tough and complex trip to manage and Jatin worked tirelessly to make sure everything came together, that we were all safe and well, and that we had a brilliant time. Whether someone needed meds, first aid, money, recovery of a misplaced/lost/left-behind item, souvenirs ... Jatin was always on hand and happy to help (he even rolled his sleeves up to help fix the bus!). Jatin's knowledge and experience was superb, he cared and his happy nature made us smile. A huge credit to Exodus.
Bring plenty of hand sanitiser (and use it regularly!), drink loads of water, bring an open-mind and be prepared to go with the flow. This is a really fun adventure trip - there are some early morning starts (for activities or to travel), rough and bumpy roads, long days, squat toilets and often facilities which might not meet our usual standards - go with it, it's really worth it. The long travel days weren't so bad as the views and outside life was fascinating to watch. Try and carry some snacks to keep the energy levels going - Jatin and the drivers often stopped at street vendors to get us fruit or other snacks during the day. During the long journeys, we stopped every couple of hours for a leg stretch, cuppa and a loo break. We were always told to shout if anyone needed an earlier stop. We encountered an unscheduled 6 hr delay, due to protests, on the morning train to Varanasi and many of us were very grateful for saving some our breakfast box leftovers which kept us going. The overnight train was an adventure. We made sure we had a good feed at lunchtime and we stopped off at the shop for some snacks. I carried a lightweight sleeping bag liner for the overnight train - I used it because I carried it, but the bedding provided seemed clean enough to use without the liner. However, it did get a little chilly during the night so the extra layer was welcomed. One thing I wished I'd packed was some cards or small games, but we made our own fun in the end. US $ are very useful to carry - crisp and un-torn notes. Indian rupees can be carried into and used in Nepal. Don't overpack - hotel laundry facilities were cheap and good, and best used on 2 night stays. I used the hotel laundry facilities in Bodhgaya and Varanasi. Bodhgaya was slightly cheaper, but neither expensive at all. Get over the cappuccino love! Mainly instant coffee all the way until Pokhara - but the Masala Chai is a good substitute.
This is a superb trip for an India first-timer or someone wanting to get a taster of Nepal and North India- It gives a taste of so much - people, ways of life, forts, palaces, mountains, countryside, nature, temples, Hindu and Buddhist insights/learning, trains, roads etc. The trip visits many UNESCO world heritage sites. It requires a bit of stamina (for the travelling days and early starts). Both India and Nepal are challenging and daunting countries and this trip made the experience do-able, straighforward and easy.
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