Compare Highlights of Northern India & Nepal by Exodus Travels vs Northern India & Nepal 2021 by Tauck

Day 1 Arrive Delhi; afternoon sightseeing of Humayun's Tomb and New Delhi

We meet as a group for the first time at the hotel. In the afternoon, we start to explore the city beginning with New Delhi, visiting the tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun, which was built by his widow Hamida Banu Begam and is now a Unesco World Heritage site. We then drive past fine colonial buildings in New Delhi, 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. We return to the hotel for a free evening. Accommodation: Hotel Pooja Palace (or similar)

Day 2 Morning tour of Old Delhi before drive to Jaipur

After breakfast, we continue our exploration of the capital. We start outside the Jama Masjid (the largest mosque in India) before being guided through the narrow streets of old Delhi, through the Kinari Bazzar (or we can explore by rickshaw – additional cost). We finish the Old Delhi tour at Jama Masjid and learn about the history of the building. If interested, you can enter the mosque (fees may be applicable). In the early afternoon, we drive (approximately five to seven hours, depending on traffic) to the pink city of Jaipur. Accommodation: Lilypool - The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar)

Day 3 Full-day sightseeing in Jaipur, including City Palace and Amber Fort; evening free

Enjoy a full day to explore Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and one of the most attractive and colourful cities in India. Built in the late 18th century, it is a planned city of broad sandstone avenues that were later painted pink. First, we visit the City Palace, once a Maharaja residence and now a museum containing rare manuscripts, paintings, royal garments and weapons. Close to the palace is 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 will also see the impressive landmark, the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). We 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 explore. You could take this opportunity to pick up a gift or two for home: Jaipur is a centre of many handicrafts, including durries (woven rugs), carpets, printed cloth, semi-precious stones and leatherwear. Accommodation: Lilypool - The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar)

Day 4 Drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri

We begin by driving to Agra via the deserted ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri. Formally the capital of the Mughal Empire, this wonderfully preserved ghost town was constructed by Emperor Akbar between 1570 and 1585 and reflects his ideals in art, religion and architecture. This impressive and well-preserved citadel became his capital in 1571, after the blessing of a local Moslem holy man correctly predicted the birth of a longed-for son, his successor the Emperor Jehangir. The mosque, designed to hold 10,000 worshippers, the palaces, residences and halls of audience, are built in decorative red sandstone. Akbar soon left Fatehpur Sikri to secure his outlying territories, leaving this city much as we see it today. The site is one of the most atmospheric in northern India and its position on a ridge overlooking the modern village below, and its wonderful state of preservation, give us a taste of this city's majestic past. Accommodation: Taj Vilas (or similar)

Day 5 Sunrise at Taj Mahal; visit the Red Fort; overnight train to Varanasi

We rise very early to see the incredible spectacle of sunrise over the Taj Mahal. The Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built the landmark in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. The New World Wonder is serenely beautiful and never fails to amaze; the white-marble exterior changes colour according to the position of the sun and is made even more beautiful by the rich interior detail. Within striking distance is the imposing Red Fort of Akbar, whose mighty sandstone walls enclose the white-marble Pearl Mosque and the palaces, halls, courtyards and fountains of his sons and successors, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. It is here that the latter spent his last years, imprisoned by his own son Aurangzeb. Agra is also a hub for a wide variety of handicrafts including jewellery, inlaid and carved marble, carpets and clothes and there should be time for shopping. In the evening, we head to Tundla station to catch our overnight train to Varanasi. Accommodation: Sleeper train

Day 6 Arrive Varanasi; afternoon visit to Sarnath, the site of Buddha's first sermon

On arrival in Varanasi, we transfer to our hotel. Please note, rooms may not be available until midday but efforts are made to make it earlier if possible. In the afternoon, we visit the nearby Sarnath Temple. Sarnath is as sacred to Buddhists as Varanasi is to Hindus. The main monument at Saranath is the Dhamekh Stupa, the very spot where Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon. The evening free. Accommodation: Hotel Surya (or similar)

Day 7 Dawn boat ride on Ganges visiting bathing 'ghats'; free afternoon; witness an evening aarti ceremony

Varanasi, on the Ganges, is one of the holiest cities in India and stands at the centre of Hinduism: there are thousands of pilgrims, wandering holy men (Sadhus), religious leaders and casual visitors. Immerse yourself by exploring the narrow lanes and many temples or watching the Hindu ceremonies that take place around the clock. Just before dawn, we take a boat onto the Ganges to see the extraordinary ghats (the steps leading down to the river). Every day, thousands of Hindu pilgrims come to this 3mi (5km) stretch to submerge themselves in the holy waters of the river. In the evening, you can witness an aarti ceremony from the banks. Accommodation: Hotel Surya (or similar)

Day 8 Cross border to Nepal; to the Unesco World Heritage site of Lumbini

We board our private bus and make an early departure for Nepal. We drive across the northern plains, passing through a few towns and lots of villages. At the border, we leave our bus 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, the birthplace of the Buddha, where we spend the night. The total driving time today is approximately 12 hours. Accommodation: Buddha Maya hotel (or similar)

Day 9 Drive to Chitwan National Park

Early this morning there is a short (optional) rickshaw ride around Lumbini gardens. 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 four-hour drive), where we spend two nights. The park, with jungle and thick forest, was once a royal hunting ground and 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)

Day 10 Chitwan National park; jeep safari and dug-out canoe excursion

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 in this area. 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 organised. Accommodation: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar)

Day 11 Drive to Pokhara with views of the Annapurna range en route

Today, our journey to Pokhara is only 87mi (140km) but will take four to five 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 formidable Annapurna range. At only 3,280ft (1,000m), among semi-tropical plants and with a delightfully warm climate, it is actually 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 Lake Phewa, with a wide choice of restaurants and other facilities close by. Accommodation: Dahlia Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Day 12 Sunrise over mountains; morning walk from Sarangkot to Pame

After breakfast, we head into the hills for even better views of the peaks. An early morning start is required for the clearest view, but 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, most people's favourite mountain in the region. After enjoying our time here, we walk back towards Pokhara, descending down steps and trail paths, finishing just before at Pame (approximately 2hr 30min walk), where you can stop for lunch before a short transfer back to our hotel. For many, Pokhara is a place to relax, enjoying a spot beside the beautiful lake. This afternoon, you can 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)

Day 13 Follow Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers to Kathmandu

We 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 as well as some bumpy conditions in places mean the journey will take most of the day (10 to 12 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 in this evening and check into our centrally located hotel. Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)

Day 14 Optional Everest flight; visit Pashupatinath and Bodnath; free time

We have today to explore Kathmandu and the valley. In the early morning, you could take a scenic flight to see Mount Everest (this can be booked and paid for on arrival in Kathmandu; see the 'Extra Expenses and Spending Money' section of the Trip Notes for costs). Today there will be 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 that's home to hundreds of macaques. Kathmandu also offers many souvenir 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 also find wonderful pizzas and apple pie. Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)

Day 15 End Kathmandu

Those on the flight-inclusive package will depart for the airport this morning for the daytime flight back to London. If you are on land only arrangements 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.

Day 1 Arrive New Delhi

Tour begins: 2:00 PM, The Imperial, New Delhi. A transfer is included from Indira Gandhi International Airport to The Imperial, New Delhi. Most international flights arrive between 11:00 PM and 3:00 AM local time, 10 1/2 hours ahead of the U.S. (EST). To ease the effects of jet lag, consider traveling to India a day early; ask at booking. You'll enjoy a Heritage Room at your landmark hotel, an iconic 5-star property occupying the most distinguished address in the heart of the capital. Your trip begins this afternoon with a welcome briefing by your Tauck Director, followed by a guided orientation tour of New Delhi including a drive through of Vijay Chowk, with views of the Secretariat buildings, Parliament House, the Presidential Palace and the India Gate, commemorating Indian and British soldiers. Next, stop at the Gandhi Smriti Museum, paying tribute to the inspiring leader, Mahatma Gandhi, who forced change through non-violent protest, leading to an independent India in the late 1940s. Join us this evening for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner.

MEALS : D

LODGING : The Imperial, New Delhi

PORTOFCALL : New Delhi, India

Day 2 Old & New Delhi, Past and Present

Discover not one, but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites today as you explore the centuries-old history and culture of Old Delhi and environs. Following a morning orientation tour of Old Delhi, visit Humayun’s Tomb, constructed for the Mughal Emperor Humayan and other members of his family in the 1570s, and set within beautiful gardens. The first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent and the first large structure of its kind built of red sandstone, this Mughal creation popularized Persian-influenced architecture in India, and was an inspiration for the Taj Mahal in Agra. After lunch at a local restaurant, sightseeing continues as you marvel at the Qutb Minar Victory Tower, India’s tallest minaret, five stories high. A red sandstone tower built in 1193 and covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran, it is part of one of the earliest surviving mosque complexes in India. Return to your New Delhi hotel in late afternoon and spend the rest of the day and evening as you please.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : The Imperial, New Delhi

PORTOFCALL : New Delhi, India

Day 3 A flight to Kathmandu

If you like, enjoy a yoga class, then let your imagination take flight as you board a plane bound for Kathmandu in Nepal. Touch down for a three-night stay that celebrates the natural beauty and spiritual tapestry of this small mountainous country. Your family-run hotel has a rich tradition of hospitality. This evening, visit a renowned golden-roofed temple with silver doors that sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. Dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants tonight.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Dwarika's Hotel

PORTOFCALL : Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 4 Himalayas Flightseeing and a sherpa

Today your Nepal and India trip continues as you set off early this morning for spectacular flightseeing* above the Himalayan landscapes of Mount Everest – an unforgettable experience. Back on the ground in the Kathmandu Valley, explore Patan Durbar Square, where ancient temples and pagodas – both Buddhist and Hindu – are clustered around the old royal palace. Climb aboard for a rickshaw ride, if you like. Lunch is served in a local restaurant. Before dinner tonight at your hotel, a Sherpa who’s climbed Mount Everest gives a talk followed by a Question & Answer session.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Dwarika's Hotel

PORTOFCALL : Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 5 Monks and a medieval town

On a lofty hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, adorned with colorful prayer flags, statuary and sacred art, Kopan Monastery draws seekers of spiritual enlightenment from all over the world. Join the Tibetan Buddhist monks as they start their day with prayer and meditation (a ceremony of bells and chanting mantras) before paying a visit to the famous stupa (spiritual monument) of Boudhanath, built during the 5th century, a colossal spherical temple that represents the Mind of Buddha (from a tower his painted eyes keep watch over Kathmandu Valley). At least 29 monasteries surround this immense shrine adorned with prayer flags and prayer wheels, its structure reflecting the design of a mandala. After lunch, you'll arrive at your hotel where the rest of the evening is at your leisure.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Dwarika's Hotel

PORTOFCALL : Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 6 Fly to Chitwan National Park

This morning fly to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the foothills of the Himalayas. The flora and fauna are particularly rich here. One of the few remaining populations of single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros lives in the park, and it’s also one of the last refuges of the Bengal tiger. After lunch at your lodge, go on a river safari by boat and enjoy a sundowner.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Meghauli Serai, A Taj Safari

Day 7 Explore Chitwan National Park by Jeep

In an open-topped vehicle, head into Chitwan National Park for a safari and picnic breakfast. Later, watch the elephants take a bath in the river – and interact with them! After lunch enjoy a free afternoon as you wish.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Meghauli Serai, A Taj Safari

Day 8 Bhaktapur and a mountain resort

Pack your bags for a morning flight back to Kathmandu. When you land, explore Bhaktapur, the third largest city in the valley, where cobblestone streets free from traffic make walking in this ancient, picturesque town of traditional art and architecture a pleasure. Its famous centuries-old craftsmanship continues; you will find potters, woodcarvers and weavers here as well as photogenic temples, courtyards and venerable squares, and you’ll have an opportunity to view their handiwork. This afternoon, head to your resort in the town of Dhulikhel, where the views of the mountains might just leave you speechless. Dinner will be at your resort this evening.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Dwarika's Resort Dhulikhel

Day 9 Singing Bowls and Cooking

Today, you'll have the opportunity for a bit of rest and relaxation as you may indulge and enjoy the many amenities offered to you at your hotel. Tonight, a singing bowl demonstration and a cooking demonstration precedes dinner at the hotel.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Dwarika's Resort Dhulikhel

PORTOFCALL : Agra, India

Day 10 Fly to Delhi & on to Agra

A morning flight takes you back to Delhi followed by a drive to Agra, home to one of the world’s most famous edifices – and monuments to love – the Taj Mahal, built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, as a memorial to his wife. A perfectly symmetrical building, the monument’s marble relief work is inlaid with precious stones. Your stay at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra will take you back to a grand era of emperors. Dinner is at your choice of two of the hotel's fine restaurants tonight.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

PORTOFCALL : Agra, India

Day 11 The Taj Mahal & Agra Red Fort

This morning, explore the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a jewel of Muslim architecture renowned as one of the “wonders of the world,” on a sunrise visit or after you have breakfast – or both! Next up is a visit to the city of Agra and the 16th-century red sandstone Agra Fort, an enormous complex of fairy tale palaces and mosques once surrounded by a deep moat. This evening’s Maharajah dinner will mean special preparations, with ladies being shown how to wear their choice of a traditional sari (with a delicate touch of henna painting), and the gentlemen putting on traditional turbans.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

PORTOFCALL : Agra, India

Day 12 The Temples of Khajuraho

Take a train this morning from Agra to Jhansi followed by a drive to Khajuraho for an overnight stay. This small town is the site of a famous group of temples built between the 9th and 10th centuries by the Chandella Dynasty, praised by UNESCO for striking a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture; visit them today.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : The LaLiT Temple View Khajuraho

PORTOFCALL : Khajuraho, India

Day 13 Bandhavgarh National Park

Drive to Bandhavgarh National Park, a wildlife reserve where leopards, deer, jungle cats, wild dogs, and tigers live – although it is very rare to spot the elusive tiger, a master of camouflage. After lunch embark on a jungle safari in an open-topped Jeep for a chance to catch sight of the wildlife. You’ll stay three nights in this remarkable park.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari

Day 14 Jungle Safaris Morning & Afternoon

At daybreak, drive with expert trackers into the heart of the Bandhavgarh Forest, one of India’s most scenic areas. Keep your camera handy – the wildlife at home here include tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boar, jackals and a variety of birds. A lecture on the ongoing tiger conservation efforts in India precedes lunch back at the lodge then another jungle safari. Enjoy dinner this evening at the hotel.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari

Day 15 Safari Drives & Village Life

Enjoy a morning’s jungle safari drive in Bandhavgarh National Park; in the afternoon, you can choose between further exploration on another jungle excursion, or lending a hand with one of several ongoing community projects alongside village residents. Attend an interactive cooking demonstration prior to dinner at your hotel.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari

Day 16 Flight to Mumbai

Depart Bandhavgarh National Park this morning for a flight to Mumbai on the Arabian Sea. Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai today is India’s richest city: hip, multicultural, cosmopolitan, home to Bollywood and a thriving financial center. Arrive in Mumbai mid-afternoon, then take a brief guided orientation tour of landmark city sights en route to your oceanfront luxury hotel. Dinner is at leisure in the hotel tonight.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : The Oberoi, Mumbai

PORTOFCALL : Mumbai, India

Day 17 Colonial Mumbai

Begin today's discovery of Mumbai, India's economic powerhouse, with a visit to the famed Gateway of India, a regal arch built to commemorate the 1911 visit of King George V and Queen Mary during the British Raj; this colossal waterfront monument is sometimes called “the Taj Mahal of Mumbai.” Explore the city's Heritage area, including a stop at the Baroque-style train station known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) and Central Railway Headquarters building – Mumbai's only UNESCO World Heritage Site – resplendent with vaulted roofs, arches, Gothic spires, flying buttresses, gables crowned by neoclassical sculptures, stone carvings, and friezes. After an afternoon spent as you please in marvelous Mumbai, join us for a farewell cocktail reception at your hotel this evening.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : The Oberoi, Mumbai

PORTOFCALL : Mumbai, India

Day 18 Journey Home

Tour ends: Mumbai. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from The Oberoi, Mumbai to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Most international flights depart between 2:00 – 3:00 AM; you should allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in.

MEALS : B

PORTOFCALL : Mumbai, India