16-Day Escorted Tour to India & Nepal
Trip Highlights
Arrive in the energetic capital city of New Delhi, where you will visit the Sikh Temple and Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the walled city of Old Delhi, visit the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi and the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Plus, enjoy a brief photo stop at the famous Red Fort and a cycle rickshaw ride.
See the famed “Pink City” of Jaipur and embark on an excursion to the 16th-century Amber Fort by jeep. Travel to the medieval city of Agra, via Abhaneri to visit the Chand Baori (step well), then visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument to love, and Agra Fort to view the walled courtyards, mosques and lavish private chambers.
Continue to Khajuraho, stopping at Orchha to view some of the most noteworthy Hindu architecture in India. Tour the exquisite Khajuraho Temples with their exotic sculptures, then fly to Varanasi, where you will witness dawn on the sacred River Ganges, visit Hindu Temples and explore Sarnath, the holy city where Buddha preached his first divine sermon of Dharma.
Fly to Nepal, mystical and mountainous, to explore one of the world’s most remote and unspoiled countries. Venture into rural Nepal to visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Bhadgaon and Dhulikhel, and enjoy a city tour of Kathmandu. With terraced farms set against the backdrop of the mighty Himalayan Mountains and Mt. Everest, and timeless temples dotting the land, Nepal is an incredible and unforgettable way to cap your trip.
Package Includes:
- Round trip flights Montreal-New Delhi, New Delhi-Montreal. Other departure cities available.
- Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- All intra-flights: Khajuraho-Varanasi, Varanasi-Kathmandu & Kathmandu-New Delhi
- 14 nights First Class accommodations
- 3 nights New Delhi
- 2 nights Jaipur
- 2 nights Agra
- 1 night Khajuraho
- 2 nights Varanasi
- 4 nights Kathmandu
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers
- 22 meals: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 6 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
- Raj Ghat, cremation site and memorial to Mahatma Gandhi
- Rickshaw ride through Old Delhi’s frenetic 400-year old Chandni Chowk bazaar
- Amber Fort with its gorgeous Palace of Mirrors
- Visit the Taj Mahal, considered the most perfect architectural monument in the world
- Khajuraho Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Boat ride at dawn on the Ganges
- Durbar Square, clustered with over 50 ancient temples, pagodas and palaces
Detailed Itinerary
D
DAY 1, Sunday – Depart for India
Depart for India
DAY 2, Monday – Arrive in New Delhi
Welcome to India! Arrive in the energetic capital city of New Delhi; meet your representative and transfer to the hotel. Time to rest and relax after your journey and acclimate to the new time zone
Overnight: New Delhi
DAY 3, Tuesday – Old & New Delhi City Tour
Begin in the walled city of Old Delhi, founded by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Travel along the winding streets to Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation and site of his cremation and to Jama Masjid, the largest and best-known mosque in India. Stop for photos at the famous Red Fort, then continue along the lanes of Chandni Chowk, once the imperial avenue of Mughal royalty, on a cycle rickshaw. Then, on to New Delhi, a city of airy boulevards, lush parks, and gardens. Visit the Sikh Temple, and then drive past the imposing India Gate War Memorial to Indian and British soldiers, Parliament House and the Presidential Palace. Arrive at Humayun’s Tomb set in stunning gardens, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This evening, meet with your fellow travelers and Tour Manager for a briefing on the incredible journey in India and Nepal that awaits you. Afterward, begin your discovery of Indian cuisine at a hotel restaurant
Overnight: New Delhi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4, Wednesday – Travel to Jaipur
Depart New Delhi to Jaipur, gateway to the desert state of Rajasthan. En route, stop for some photos at the graceful sandstone Qutab Minar Victory Tower, the world’s tallest brick minaret, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in glorious Jaipur, with its stucco buildings lining the wide streets and you’ll understand why it is nicknamed the “Pink City”. The city was painted its unique color in 1876 to celebrate the visit of the Prince of Wales. Drive past stunning hilltop forts and glorious palaces on the way to a bargain-filled bazaar. You will visit Bhandari Jewelry: Jaipur’s centuries-old craft community, world-renown for its quality and design. Bhandari Jewelry, third generation gemologists, offers a spectacular array of gems, available loose or uniquely set in gold and silver, plus local handicrafts, stone and marble carvings, and paintings. Dinner at the hotel
Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5, Thursday – Elephant Ride to Amber Fort & Jaipur City Tour
Excursion to the spectacular Amber Fort, a stunning fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles with its gorgeous Palace of Mirrors. On the way, stop at the Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of Winds” with its lacy ornamental façade. Arrive at the Amber Fort and ascend the hill to the ramparts by jeep, or on the back of an elephant (if available). From here, see the panoramic views of Jaipur’s original city walls and the Maotha lake below. Enjoy some refreshments while shopping the vast collection of local handicrafts at Jaipur Handicrafts, offering premium quality handmade carpets, textiles, pashminas, pottery, and paintings. Fabrics in all colors and texture are available for loose purchase as well as custom design work. Later, the tour continues to the opulent City Palace, former royal residence, now a grand museum with an extraordinary collection of miniature paintings, costumes, and armory. On the way back, stop at the well-preserved 18th century Jantar Mantar Observatory. Tonight’s optional evening is highlighted by the exotic flavors of Indian cuisine at a local neighborhood restaurant, while you’re entertained by performers in traditional attire as they perform various dance moves on the rhythm of the accompanying musical instruments
Optional: Dinner at Local Jaipur Restaurant with Traditional Folk Dance
Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Friday – Travel to Agra via Abhaneri
Depart Jaipur to the small ancient village of Abhaneri in northern Rajasthan. Begin at Chand Baori, one of the largest step wells in India, fortified on all sides. This unique idea was conceived by the early natives to work as a water reservoir, located adjacent to the temple dedicated to Harshat Mata, goddess of joy and happiness – an architectural jewel. Then after lunch, continue on to Agra, with its celebrated past, rich heritage and architectural delights. If time allows, you may visit a local school. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the delights of this splendid city
Overnight: Agra
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 7, Saturday – Taj Mahal & Agra Fort
A memorable day as you visit the astonishing Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved Queen. Perhaps, this is the perfect architectural monument in the world, built of white marble and precious stones over a 22 year period; considered the finest example of Mughal architecture in the world. Afterward, stop at Kalakriti Marble. The Taj Mahal inspired the Kalakriti family to become the manufacturer of fine inlaid marble work. Marvel at the museum quality workmanship as you watch a demonstration of the timely process of marble carvings, filigree and stone inlay. Then browse Kalakriti’s home furnishings and decorative items. In the afternoon, travel to the red sandstone Agra Fort, with its incredible maze of walled courtyards, mosques and lavish private chambers reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal Empire; this monument has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, to the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah built of the finest Indian marble embellished with mosaics and inlay of semiprecious stones. Enjoy the evening at leisure
Overnight: Agra
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Sunday – Sightseeing en Route to Khajuraho
This morning transfer to the railway station to board the Shatabdi Express train to Jhansi. Upon arrival, continue via motor coach to the medieval city of Orchha on the River Betwa to view some of the most noteworthy Hindu architecture in India. After lunch continue to Khajuraho, site of the world-famous Khajuraho Temples with their erotic carvings, dating back to the Chandela Dynasty. Dinner in Khajuraho
Overnight: Khajuraho
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, Monday – Chandela Dynasty Temples of Khajuraho, Flight to Varanasi
Begin the day with a tour of the exquisite Khajuraho Temples, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Although over 1,050 temples were created, there are only 20 exquisite sculptures left today. Just a few of the sculptures you will see are the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple to Lord Shiva, the Bharatiya Temple, with its 11-headed sculpture of Vishnu and the Vamana Temple dedicated to the dwarf incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Depart this treasure trove in the afternoon on a flight to Varanasi, built on the banks of the sacred River Ganges. For centuries, pilgrims have come here for blessings and purification in the holy waters. In the evening, participate in the optionalSacred Prayer Ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat on the Ganges River, lit with oil lamps and candles illuminating the river. Here, you can witness the unique “Aarti” ceremony. The atmosphere is lively and bright – this is truly a not to be missed experience
Optional: Evening Sacred Prayer Ceremony at the Ganges River (PM)
Overnight: Varanasi
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10, Tuesday – Ganges Boat Ride, Hindu Temples Visit & Sarnath Sightseeing
Rise before dawn for a boat ride on the Ganges to observe the solemn sunrise ceremonies. Witness the riverbanks humming with activity as Hindu devotees perform their rituals on the “ghats” steps and offer prayers to the rising sun. Then, on to Bharat Mata Temple with its marble relief map of an undivided India, Durga Temple, and Benaras Hindu University. After the early morning tour, return to the hotel for breakfast. Afterward, visit the shopping district. A stay in Varanasi would not be complete without a stop at leading silk weavers, Mehta Silk. Browse beautiful silk brocades, scarves, sarees and decorative household items, all crafted by highly skilled weavers. Have leisure time for shopping in the bustling bazaars before driving to Sarnath, the holy city where Buddha preached his first sermon after attaining Enlightenment. The major events of Buddha’s life are depicted in colorful wall paintings. Visit the Deer Park, Museum and Buddhist Temple. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a restaurant
Overnight: Varanasi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 11, Wednesday – Flight to Kathmandu
Late this morning, you will head to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12, Thursday – Exploring Kathmandu
Spend today getting a real feel of the Nepalese lifestyle by visiting Budhanilkhantha, Shreegha Vihar, and a local market (Ason). This evening, enjoy an optional Nepalese meal at a traditional restaurant, accompanied by ethnic dancing and live music
Optional:Traditional Nepalese Dinner
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 13, Friday – Rural Nepal Excursion
Venture into rural Nepal this morning and enjoy visits to Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Bhadgaon and Dhulikhel. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, the Pashupatinath Temple is believed to mark the site where Shiva worshiped in the form of Lingam (only Hindus are permitted entrance). Continue to visit Boudhanath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage center and home to one of the world’s largest Buddhist stupas. Also visit Bhadgaon (Bhaktapur), an ancient Newar city founded in the 9th-century. Here you will see the royal residential quarter of King Bhupatindra Malla and the Nytapola Temple. The tour concludes with a stop at Dhulikhel, a Newari town, where you will see spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains. In the center of the old town, view temples adorned with wood carvings, fine examples of traditional Newari craftsmanship
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 14, Saturday – Kathmandu City Tour
Early this morning, enjoy the optional Mount Everest Flightseeing tour. See spectacular scenery over the tallest mountain peak on earth from a window seat of a small aircraft. Later this morning, drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Durbar Square, showcasing some of the finest architecture in Central Asia with more than 50 palaces, pagodas, and temples. The square is home to two important temples, the Kasthamandap (Rest House of Wood), considered one of the oldest wooden structures in the world, and the 16th-century Taleju Temple, which honors a form of the Goddess Durga. Visit the temple of Machhendranath and the great stupa of Swayambhunath, with the eyes of Buddha painted on all four sides, then continue to the Royal Palace complex with its gilded doorway. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
Optional: Mount Everest Flightseeing (AM)
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 15, Sunday – Flight to New Delhi
This morning, enjoy the optional city tour of Patan, also known as Lalitpur or the “City of Beauty”, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is filled with Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments exhibiting skillful carvings. Included in the tour, is a visit to Patan Durbar Square, a cluster of fine pagoda temples and stone statues, also serving as the economic hub of the city. This afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to New Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel to freshen up. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel
Optional: Half Day Patan City Tour (AM)
Overnight: New Delhi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 16, Monday – Return Home
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
Featured Hotels
Jaypee Vasant Continental, New Delhi
This first class hotel is strategically situated amidst the Diplomatic Enclave of New Delhi.
Guest Rooms: Guest rooms are well appointed and decorated lavishly for a relaxing stay. Modern amenities include: air conditioning, satellite television, mini-bar, coffee/tea station and private bathroom with hairdryer.
Location: This hotel is located in an ideal location that offers easy access to various sites and attractions. The Basant Lok Shopping Complex is just a short walk away. On-site there is a full service health spa, fitness center and swimming pool.
Restaurants: The hotel’s Eggspecation Restaurant offers an impressive menu of more than 170 vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies ranging from local specialties to international dishes. Tapas serves drinks and snacks. Room service is available 24 hours.
Jaypee Palace, Agra
This deluxe hotel is centrally located in the main tourist district of Agra.
Guest Rooms: Rooms are spacious and luxurious with local Indian accents and many modern amenities. Hotel is built in Mughal period architecture. Enjoy the hotel’s outdoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath, jacuzzi, and fitness room.
Location: Hotel is situated near to major historical attractions: Agra Fort ( 3.7 miles), Taj Mahal ( 2 miles), and Sikandra ( 10 miles) The hotel is located 6 miles from the Railway Station.
Restaurants: The hotel offers several bars and restaurants serving Indian, International, and vegetarian cuisine.
Trident Jaipur, Jaipur
This superior first class hotel is beautifully located overlooking Mansagar Lake opposite Jal Mahal Lake Palace.
Guest Rooms: Hotel and rooms are decorated in local traditional style. Elegant architectural details and modern amenities make for a unique experience with the hotel’s spectacular site. All rooms have balconies with lake or garden views. Non-smoking rooms are available upon request. Enjoy the hotel’s outdoor heated pool, fitness center, table tennis, pool table, playground, and children’s activities.
Location: Unique and spectacular site overlooking Mansagar Lake and Aravalli Hills opposite the Jal Mahal Lake Palace (300 yards). Jaipur and Amber Fort are nearby at only 2.5 mile (10 minute drive). Kanak Vrindavan Temples are .5 mile and Hawa Mahal Place is 2.5 mile from the hotel.
Restaurants: Jal Mahal restaurant is set on a veranda for panoramic views, serving International and Indian specialties. Enjoy a refreshment at the Masagar Bar.
Samode Bagh, Jaipur
This first class hotel is located in the former private garden retreat of the Samode royal family.
Guest Rooms: The guest rooms are located in tents. The tents feature elegant decor and comfortable wooden furnishings. All of the tents have a porch, air conditioning and a private marble bathroom.
Location: The hotel is located in the former private garden retreat of the Samode royal family. The Samode Palace is about a ten minute drive away. Enjoy the hotel’s spa, gardens, fountains and outdoor pool.
Restaurants: The hotel’s dining room serves a variety of Indian wines along with Rajasthani, Indian, Chinese and Continental fare.
Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, New Delhi
This first class hotel is about a 30 minute drive away from the city center of New Delhi.
Guest Rooms: The rooms are decorated with modern decor and comfortable furnishings. All rooms are fitted with amenities for a pleasant stay, such as an in-room safe, air conditioning and a private bathroom with a hairdryer.
Location: The hotel is within a mile of the Delhi Aerocity metro station. The city center of New Delhi and the India Gate are about a thirty minute drive away. Enjoy the hotel’s on-site sauna and outdoor pool.
Restaurants: Guests can enjoy international cuisine at the Pluck restaurant. The Honk Asian Restaurant serves dinner daily, and Cafe Pluck is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Beverages are available at the hotel’s Pling bar.
Hotel Yak & Yeti, Kathmandu
This first class hotel is centrally located in Kathmandu.
Guest Rooms: The rooms are decorated with contemporary furnishings and regional style decor. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar and a private bathroom.
Location: The hotel is located in the city of Kathmandu. The Narayanhiti Palace Museum and the Garden of Dreams are within a half mile. Kathmandu Durbar Square is about a mile away. Enjoy the hotel’s gardens, casino, beauty salon, fitness center, tennis courts, jacuzzi and pool.
Restaurants: The Sunrise Cafe features a buffet and a la carte menus. The cafe is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Chimney Restaurant serves international fare for dinner. Guests can enjoy a beverage in the Pub.
Safari Narayani Hotel, Chitwan
This tourist class hotel has splendid views of the Rapti River and Chitwan National Park.
Guest Rooms: Guest rooms are in rustic style country cottages with regional style decor. All rooms have a ceiling fan and a private bathroom.
Location: The hotel overlooks the Rapti River. Nearby attractions include the Gharial (Crocodile) Breeding Centre and Chitwan National Park, which has a variety of wildlife including one horned rhinos, Royal Bengal Tigers, and elephants.
Restaurants: The hotel has a restaurant that features fixed breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. Guests can enjoy beverages at the hotel bar.
Temple Tiger Green Jungle Resort, Chitwan
This superior tourist class hotel has magnificent views of Chitwan National Park.
Guest Rooms: The guests accommodations are decorated with wooden furnishings and regional style decorations. All rooms are fitted with a balcony, air conditioning and an attached bathroom.
Location: The hotel is situated nearby the Narayani river. Chitwan National Park is about a short thirty minute boat ride away.
Restaurants: Guests can enjoy splendid views and delicious cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. Tasty beverages are available at the hotel’s bar.
Temple Tree Resort & Spa, Pokhara
This superior tourist class hotel is located nearby Fewa Lake.
Guest Rooms: The guest rooms are decorated with regional style decor and furnishings. All rooms are equipped with a porch or balcony with views of the hotel’s garden, complimentary internet access and a private bathroom.
Location: During their stay, guests can enjoy the hotel’s spa and infinity pool. The hotel is located nearby Fewa Lake. The city center of Pokhara is about three miles away.
Restaurants: International fare is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Bay Leaf restaurant. Guests can enjoy scrumptious dishes at the hotel’s Tree House restaurant. Snacks and beverages are available at the Island Bar.
*OPC Indemnity Fund fee of $1 per $1,000 of travel products sold is additional. Limited space, other conditions and restrictions may apply. Not all travel dates available. Hotels shown may be substituted with others and will only be confirmed prior to booking. Limited space. Offer is subject to change or cancellation at any time.
.