North India Nepal Tour

After breakfast, enjoy sightseeing of Delhi including following:

Photo stop at the Red Fort - Red Fort is the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's elegant citadel in red sandstone, built on the western bank of the river Yamuna. Shah Jahan started the construction of this massive fort in 1638, when he decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. The Red sandstone walls of the massive Red Fort rise 33 meter above the clamor of Old Delhi, as a reminder of the magnificent power and pomp of the Mughals. IMP: It remains closed on Mondays.

Enjoy the Rickshaw Ride (Paddy cab) in old Delhi - we will ride on a rickshaw through the narrow streets of Old Delhi. The humble cycle rickshaw is not only the common man’s beast of burden but also generates a considerable amount of employment. In an age, where our cities are beset by the pollution menace of automobiles, cycle-rickshaw is the best alternative and the only viable option for a short-haul.

Drive past the Govt. Buildings - New Delhi houses several government buildings and official residences, reminiscent of the British colonial architecture. Today we will drive past a few of them, like The Parliament House (designed by Baker and 173m in diameter), the Rashtrapati Bhawan (once the Viceroy’s residence), now an official residence of the President of India, etc. Designed by Lutyens, it combines western and eastern styles of architecture.

Photo stop at the India Gate - At the center of New Delhi, stands a 42-meter high - India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triumph" like archway, in the middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart, it commemorates 70,000 Indian soldiers, who lost their lives fighting for the British Army, during the World War I. The memorial bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers, killed in the North-western Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919. Under the arch, the Amar Jawan Jyoti commemorating Indian armed forces’ losses in the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971.

Visit Humayun’s Tomb - Humayun's Tomb is one of the most innovative and experimental monuments of its time, incorporating within it, an Indo-Islamic architectural style. This magnificent garden tomb is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India. It was built in 1565 AD, nine years after the death of Humayun, by his senior widow Bega Begam.

Later visit the Qutub Minar - Qutub Minar is a soaring, 73 m-high towers of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab ud-Din Aybak. The tower has five distinct levels, each marked by a projecting balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base, to just 2.5 m at the top. The first three levels are made of red sandstone; the fourth and the fifth story are made of marble and sandstone. At the foot of the tower is the Quwat ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque to be built in India. Also, a 7 m-high iron pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque. It is said that, if you can encircle it with your hands, while standing with your back to it, your wish will be fulfilled.

Overnight at the hotel

After breakfast drive to Jaipur.

Jaipur - Capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is also known as the “Pink City” due the color of its buildings. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727 CE, the city’s plan followed a grid system, making it the only planned city of its time. Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya, a young Bengali architect, designed it as per the texts of the Shilp Shastra, an ancient Indian treatise on architecture. With its innumerable sagas of traditions, culture and practices, Jaipur is a sensory treat for tourists from all over the world.

On arrival in Jaipur transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, enjoy sightseeing of Jaipur including following:

Begin with a Photo stop at the Hawa Mahal Palace - Enjoy Photo stop at Hawa Mahal. It is the most well-known landmark of Jaipur city, built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. This five-storied building overlooking the busy street is a fascinating example of Rajput architecture and artistry with its delicately honeycombed 953 pink sandstone windows known as 'jharokhas'. It was originally built for the ladies of the royal household to watch everyday life and processions in the city from their veiled comfort as they had to obey the rules of "purdah.

Later visit the Amber Fort with one way Jeep ride - Set high on a picturesque and rugged hill, it is a principal attraction in Jaipur. A noteworthy fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture, constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh, the fort was declared as UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013. The Fort depicts scintillating aura exquisitely made up of red sandstone and white marbles. The interior walls of the palace portray expressive paintings with carvings, precious stones, and mirror settings. Built mainly for the warring enemies as a safe place, the heavily structured walls defended residents, within the ramparts of the fort. Inside the fort, Sheesh Mahal is a famous hall of mirrors, constructed by Raja Jai Singh in 1623. An integral part of the Jai Mandir, it has been uniquely constructed by decorating the ceilings and walls with mirrors specially imported from Belgium and carved with beautiful designs that reflect even a small ray of light to provide natural light to the entire hall.

Visit the City Palace - Located in the heart of the Pink city and a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, it was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II as part of his ambitious city project. His successors continued to ornament and add to the elegant buildings up until the 20th century. It is a unique complex of several courtyards, buildings, pavilions, gardens, and temples. The most prominent and most visited structures in the complex are the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and the City Palace Museum.

Later you may go for exploring the old Bazaar in Jaipur - In the evening, enjoy a walk in the old town. Stroll through the narrow lanes of Jaipur, through the hustle & bustle of the Old Bazaar (market). The old city is surprisingly well laid out, with its wide, straight streets running in a grid that forms a series of bazaars. While the enchanting new town of Jaipur exhibits the picture of modern India, the old city still unravels its traditional charm and speaks about India's history, culture and tradition. With this tour, you will get a good insight into the different aspects of the city, experiencing it all first-hand. The duration of the walk will be about an hour.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, drive to Agra. On the way visit Abhaneri Step well & Harshat Mata Temple (Without Guide) - Abhaneri is a small village, famous for its stepwell, created for rainwater harvesting, a unique invention by the people of Abhaneri. The major attraction of Abhaneri is "Chand Baori" which is located in front of the Harshat Mata Temple and this colossal stepwell has a depth of 20 meters with 13 levels. Despite being so huge in architecture, one can visually notice the delicate and intricate carvings, which is certainly a visual treat. The stepwell is surrounded by various structures.

AGRA - The city of the inimitable “TAJ MAHAL”.

The architectural splendor of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is vivid reminder of the opulence of the legendary Mughal Empire. While its significance as a political center ended with the transfer of the capital to Delhi in 1634 by Shah Jahan, its architectural wealth has secured its place on the international map. A pleasant town with a comparatively slow pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are descendants of those who worked under the Mughals.

On arrival in Agra, transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at the hotel.

Early Morning, proceed for the Sunrise visit of Taj Mahal

Sunrise is by far the best time to visit the Taj Mahal. When the early morning light transforms the dome of the mausoleum into a soft, golden color, it’s magical to see the sunrise behind the Taj Mahal, a monument that symbolizes one of the greatest stories of true love ever told. Also, because this is the time when there are the least number of tourists and if you arrive early enough, you might even get perfect portraits without anyone around.

Return to Hotel for Breakfast, after breakfast, proceed for visit Agra Fort

Agra Fort - A UNESCO World Heritage site, Agra Fort was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty till 1638, before the capital was shifted to Delhi from Agra. The forbidding exteriors of this fort hide an inner paradise as it comprises of a number of exquisite buildings like Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl; Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-I-Khaas – the audience halls, Musamman Burj - where Shahjahan died in 1666 A.D., Jahangir's Palace; Khas Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. The massive Agra fort is considered as the predecessor of the Red fort in Delhi.

Later transfer to the Tundla railway station to board the Poorva Express Train 2045 Hrs. / 0345 Hrs.

Early Morning arrival in Varanasi, meet and greet at station and transfer to hotel.

“Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together”, wrote the American novelist Mark Twain. Referred to as the oldest living city in the world, Varanasi, situated between Rivers Varuna and Assi, in Uttar Pradesh derives its name from its location. A city of thousand temples, it is also known as Kashi which stands for “the city of light”. According to Hindu mythology, Varanasi is the cosmic center of the universe. The British referred to Varanasi as Benaras or Banaras and the Banarasi sari of this region is as popular as its temples and traditions.

After breakfast proceed for visit of Varanasi including following:

Banaras Hindu University - Banaras Hindu University was built in 1917 and considered as one of the oldest educational university in India. It was founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, as a center for the study of Indian art, culture, music, and Sanskrit. The university campus is spread over 5 sq. km and houses the Bharat Kala Bhavan. The Bhavan has a fine collection of miniature paintings, sculptures from first to fifteenth centuries, old photographs of Varanasi and brocade textiles. This university is highly reputed and attracts students from every corner of India and the world.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple (University) - The temple is located in the premises of the Banaras Hindu University and is about thirty minutes’ walk from the gates of the university. The temple, built by the Birlas, was planned by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. Unlike many other temples in Varanasi, this temple is open to all irrespective of caste or creed.

Later enjoy excursion to Sarnath

Sarnath archaeological site - A major Buddhist centre, Sarnath lies 10 kilometres northeast of Varanasi. It was here that Buddha preached his message of the 'middle way' to nirvana after achieving enlightenment at Bodhgaya. In around 234 BC, Emperor Ashoka, a great follower of Buddhism, erected a stupa here. Between the 3rd century BC and the 11th century

Sarnath Archeological Museum - Visit the Archaeological Museum locally known as Sarnath Museum, this splendid building houses the capitol from the Ashoka pillar, the symbol which has been adopted as the state emblem, of modern India. The museum contains a large collection of figures and sculptures from the Mauryan, Kushana and Gupta periods, discovered during the excavations at Sarnath. You can have a look at the earliest Buddha image found at Sarnath and many images of Hindu Gods, dating from the 9th to 12th centuries. (IMP: Museum remains closed on Fridays)

In the late afternoon enjoy a Bazaar walk followed by the Aarti - Celebrated in mainstream songs, Varanasi is a city of winding alleys with bustling markets, each specializing in something and just as famous as its temples. The bazaars are colorful and best explored on foot and by cycle-rickshaw. This tour starts at the Town Hall (Maidagin). From here, we walk through a colorful fabric and saree market to visit a Goshala (a charitable sanctuary for stray cows). At the Goshala, you can understand more about the "sacred cow" and see how Varanasi's bovine are cared. From the Goshala, take a cycle-rickshaw ride through the central market thoroughfare of the city to reach Chowk. From Chowk, walk again covering: the wedding market (Kinari Bazaar), Kachori Galli (lane filled with deep-fried snacks trendy in Varanasi), Khoa Galli (lane that sells milk products including cottage cheese and condensed, sweetened milk), and Vishwanath Galli (the most famous of all streets in Varanasi). From Vishwanath Galli, we end our walk to emerge at Dasashwamedh Ghat, and view the evening Ganga aarti ceremony.

Overnight at the hotel.

After Breakfast, drive to Sanouli border to enter Nepal.

After the immigration process, you will walk towards Nepal and shall board on the new vehicle waiting for you.
(Vehicle will change at Sanauli Border – Nepal part)

After pickup, drive to Lumbini.

On arrival in Lumbini, transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, enjoy the visit of Lumbini Garden including Maya Devi Temple, Ashoka Pillar

Later drive to Chitwan,

Chitwan – Chitwan National Park is the first national park in Nepal. Formerly called Royal Chitwan National Park it was established in 1973 and granted the status of a World Heritage Site in 1984. It covers an area of 932 km2 (360 sq mi) and is located in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal in the Chitwan District. In altitude it ranges from about 100 metres (330 ft) in the river valleys to 815 metres (2,674 ft) in the Churia Hills.

In the north and west of the protected area the Narayani-Rapti river system forms a natural boundary to human settlements. Adjacent to the east of Chitwan National Park is Parsa Wildlife Reserve; contiguous in the south is the Indian Tiger Reserve Valmiki National Park. The coherent protected area of 2,075 km2 (801 sq mi) represents the Tiger Conservation Unit (TCU) Chitwan-Parsa-Valmiki, which covers a 3,549 km2 (1,370 sq mi) huge block of alluvial grasslands and subtropical moist deciduous forests.

On arrival in Chitwan, transfer to the hotel.

Rest of the day is at leisure.

Dinner & overnight at hotel

Early Morning after tea/coffee enjoy Jeep safari in the Chitwan National Park.

Chitwan National Park - the lush Valley of Chitwan situated in the foothills of Churia ranges, is 75 airmails Southwest of Ktm, houses the first National Park of the Kingdom. The Royal Chitwan National Park is famous for its variety of Wildlife especially the Great Indian One Horned Rhinoceros and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. It is a truly wildlife adventure of a different kind-jungle safaris on jeeps, bird watching, canoe rides and jungle walks. The Park is situated inner Terai (lowlands and consists of Sal forest, tall elephant grassland, hills, flood plains of the Narayani, Rapti and Reu rivers. It was enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage site (Natural) in 1984 and covers an area of 932 sq. km. It is home to 56 species of mammals, 49 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 525 species of birds.

After breakfast in the hotel

You will follow the day with true jungle experience including Bird watching, Jungle walk, and canoeing. An experienced naturalist will accompany the safari.

Lunch, dinner and overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast drive to Pokhara.

Pokhara – Pokhara is a remarkable place for natural beauty at an altitude of 827 m above mean sea level & 200 km west of Kathmandu. This city is ever known as a real paradise in Earth. The Valley is filled with swift flowing river and dotted with clear gleaming lakes. It is blessed with the backdrop is the most dramatic sceneries in world. A 140km of panoramic Himalayan ranges seem close enough to be touched. But also, can be felt. The magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind the lake create an ambience of peace & magic, popular for water rafting, Kayaking and trekking expeditions.

On arrival in Pokhara, transfer to hotel.

Overnight at the hotel.

World Peace Stupa: Morning; cross the lake by boat and commence uphill walk for approx. 1.5 hrs. After spending some time walk down to vehicle waiting point.

Later drive back to the hotel.

In afternoon enjoy the visit of Mountain museum - The International Mountain Museum in Pokhara has a stunning collection of artifacts, gears, stories and photographs of the mountains, their inhabitants' and the explorers. There is everything to motivate the adventurer hidden inside of everybody and to pay tribute to the daredevils who triumphed in reaching some of the highest peaks in the world. The museum gives you description of the people living in the Himalayas and the 14 highest peaks and their most famous expeditions. It also includes some exhibits from other mountain areas such as Slovenia and Japan.

Seti George - The roaring Seti River passes right through Pokhara, but you won’t see it unless you go looking. The river has carved a deep, narrow chasm through the middle of town, turning the water milky white in the process.

Davis Falls - Witness a unique waterfall that lies 2 Km from central Pokhara City. The water fall directly goes into a deep and narrow canal with no ends. It is believed that this deadly waterfall took the life of a tourist named David, who fell into the cannel and was never found, and hence the name David waterfall, named in his memory by the people of Pokhara. This place has many nick names like Davy's fall, David's fall, or Davis's fall, all mean the same thing `The Davis Waterfall'.

Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave - Gupteshwar Mahadev cave is one of the longest caves in Nepal. On the way to cave, there are shining stones seen everywhere and in the temple is big stone that looks like snake's head and tortoise which is consider as the image of the lord Shiva. Second part is very beautiful, and you see shining stones and different types of rocks like bee hives. Later visit Tibetan Refugee Camp.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast drive to Kathmandu.

On arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to the hotel.

Kathmandu - Surrounded by four hills — Fulchowki, Chandragiri, Shivapuri, and Nagarjun — Kathmandu Valley has three major cities—Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. Prior to Nepal’s unification in the 18th century, the three cities were sovereign states that were ruled by the Malla kings. The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is located at an altitude of 1,400 meters above sea level and is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Changu Narayan Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Baudhanath Stupa.

Rest of the day is at leisure to be on their own.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast enjoy the visit of Kathmandu including following:

Pashupatinath - Lying 6 Km from central Kathmandu, Pashupatinath temple is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated amidst a lush green natural setting on the bank of the sacred Bagmati River, the temple, which was built in pagoda style, has a gilded roof and beautifully carved silver doors. Visitors will be permitted to view the temple from the east bank of the Bagmati River, as entrance into the temple is strictly forbidden to all non-Hindus. Pashupatinath is the centre of an annual pilgrimage on the day Shivaratri, which falls in February or March. Behind the temples are the cremation grounds.

Boudhnath - This stupa, situated 11 Km. from the cenr of Kathmandu, is one of the biggest in the world of its kind. It stands with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal directions, keeping a lookout for righteous behaviour and human prosperity. This Buddhist stupa was built by King Man Deva at the advice of the Goddess Mani Jogini. It is built on an octagonal base and is contains inset prayer wheels. The shrine is surrounded by the homes of Lamas, or Buddhist priests.

Kathmandu Durbar Square - Here you will visit the temple of the Living Goddess, who acknowledges the greetings of the devotees from the balcony of her temple residence. Kasthamandap – the source of the name Kathmandu and supposed to be made from the timber of a single tree and Durbar Square are with its array of temples overlooked by the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the ancient residence of the Nepalese Royalty. We continue to the Kumari Bhal, or the Temple of the Living Goddess.

Swayambhunath - Located approximately 3km from the center of Kathmandu, this Buddhist stupa is said to be 2000 years old. The stupa which forms the main structure is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth which supports a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of gilt copper. Painted on the four-sided base below the spire are the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. The whole area around the Stupa contains an array of small stupas and temples. This is one of the best places from which to view the Kathmandu valley, as it is situated on a small hillock.

Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast in time transfer to the Airport to board a flight for your destination / back home. (Room will be available till 12:00 hrs)