Delhi to Kathmandu Quest | with Nepal Trek and Temples
Delhi to Kathmandu Quest | with Nepal Trek and Temples
$3800
Delhi to Kathmandu Quest | with Nepal Trek and Temples
16 Days Starting in New Delhi, India and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal
Visiting: Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, Agra, Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park, Nagarkot
Tour operator:
Tour code:
DEST25
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Delhi to Kathmandu, exploring the vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes of India and Nepal. Begin your adventure in the bustling streets of Delhi, where you'll dive into the city's rich history and vibrant markets. Travel to the spiritual heart of Varanasi, witnessing the sacred rituals along the Ganges River. Discover the architectural wonders of Lucknow and the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. In Nepal, immerse yourself in the wildlife of Chitwan National Park, home to rhinos and Bengal tigers. Trek through the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas, visiting charming villages and experiencing the serene beauty of Nagarkot and Dhulikhel. Conclude your journey in Kathmandu, exploring its ancient temples and vibrant culture. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, spiritual discovery, and natural beauty, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: The Ashtan Sarovar Portico (or similar)
Welcome to the intoxicating cacophony of colours, smells, spices, culture and chaos that is Delhi. We'll bond with our Contiki fam today before kick-starting our adventure.
Day 2: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: The Ashtan Sarovar Portico (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we’ll explore one of the world’s most hustling, bustling cities (home to a cool 25m people!) With a local guide, we’ll discover Old Delhi & other top sights. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours to explore Delhi your way. Dinner tonight is a DIY vibe, tasting the best of Delhi with your new crew.
Day 3: Delhi To Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: The India Hotel (Or Similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we'll leave the magical mayhem of Delhi behind and catch a flight to Varanasi... Nestled alongside the Ganges is Varanasi, one of the holiest Hindu sites in the world - a place where pilgrims come to bathe in the sacred waters and cremate their loved ones. This place can be described as India in a nutshell - not for the faint of heart, but spiritual, riotous and touchingly passionate.
Day 4: Varanasi Via The River Ganges
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: The India Hotel (Or Similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise and shine! We're headed down to the river, boarding a small boat as dawn alights the Ganges. We'll watch the Ghat in front of us slowly come to life, as pilgrims bathe in the holy river, wash away their sins and fill bottles with holy water (we wouldn't recommend doing the same - it may be holy but that doesn't mean it's hygienic). After watching the sunrise from our boat, we'll weave our way through the narrow lanes, and get to see how life operates on the riverside. As the afternoon draws in, we'll explore the ruins of Sarnath, another holy location for another ancient religion. Located on the outskirts of the city, this is said to be the location from which Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Finish off an epic day by getting lost (on purpose) in the spidery lanes of the old city where our local guide will show Varanasi's hidden gems.
Day 5: Varanasi To Lucknow
Location: Lucknow
Accommodation Name: La Place Sarovar Portico (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we can officially tick Varanasi off our lists. Next, we’ll make our way to a true historical hotspot – Lucknow, here we come. Lucknow is famous for its Awadhi cuisine, so we recommend taking a culinary walk of the city, hopping in and out of roadside eateries and getting a complete taste of the local culture.
Day 6: Lucknow
Location: Lucknow
Accommodation Name: La Place Sarovar Portico (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Long regarded as India's centre for culture and art, Lucknow is full of wonders for us to explore this morning. We won't waste any time, as we start off with a locally guided sightseeing tour, coming up close to La Martiniere building - a beautiful and historic private school - and the Asafi Imambara, one of the most regal architectural complexes in the world. Taking almost a decade to build, the building famously employed locals in the region while a ravaging famine swept India. We'll have a free evening to admire Lucknow's ethereal bazaars, opulent Raj-era architecture and delicious food. Whether you decide to walk its broad boulevards or beautiful gardens, you'll wonder how this place has escaped the overwhelming tourist attention of some other Indian towns.
Day 7: Lucknow To Agra
Location: Agra
Accommodation Name: The Retreat (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
See ya, Lucknow, we're headed to one of the world's oldest cities. Today you'll have the opportunity to get your bucket list ticked with a visit to one of mankind's masterpieces: the majestic Taj Mahal (you'll also get the chance to visit the 17th century Agra Fort). The Taj Mahal, the 17th century memorial building considered by many to be the most beautiful building in the world, naturally dominates Agra, but it isn't the only thing to be found here. The city, curving along the holy Yamuna River, is dotted with mausoleums, tombs and heaving marketplaces.
Day 8: Agra To Kathmandu Via Wildlife Sos Elephant Conservation & Care Centre And Delhi
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Hotel Shanker (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Jumping on our air-conditioned coach we'll head to our next stop... We'll visit the Wildlife SOS Elephant Rescue Centre, where we'll meet over 20 rescued elephants and witness the only elephant hospital in Asia. Wasting no time this afternoon, we're getting a speedy flight to Kathmandu, Nepal... We've arrived into Kathmandu!
Day 9: Kathmandu To Chitwan National Park
Location: Chitwan National Park
Accommodation Name: Chitwan Forest Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Time to rise and shine. Today we're waking up in Kathmandu! A world heritage reserve teeming with rhinos, deer, monkeys, elephants, sloth bears, and even the majestic Bengal Tiger.
Day 10: Chitwan National Park
Location: Chitwan National Park
Accommodation Name: Chitwan Forest Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
One of the remaining undisturbed areas of the Terai region, this rich ecosystem is wedged between two river valleys on the outer Himalayas, which provide a beautiful backdrop to the steep cliffs and lush plantlands. This morning we'll take a jungle walk to soak in the spectacular beauty, before heading out on our once-in-a-lifetime jeep safari. One of the last safe havens for the one-horned rhino and the Bengal tiger - both heavily endangered - Chitwan offers one of the best wildlife spotting experiences on the planet.
Day 11: Chitwan National Park To Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Hotel Shanker (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we're headed back to Nepal's bustling capital. It's time to uncover Kathmandu on a locally guided tour of its UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durbar Square - the old royal palace of the former kingdom, parts of which were tragically destroyed in the earthquake of 2015. As we walk, we'll marvel at the medieval temples, captivating courtyards and charming mayhem.
Day 12: Kathmandu To Chisapani Via Sundarijal
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rise and shine, it’s trekking time! We'll bond over breakfast amidst the magical mayhem of Kathmandu this morning, before driving up to Sundarijal, at a heady elevation of 1350m. And our 5-hour trek begins! We’ll climb through forests, reservoirs and dams up to the Shivapuri ridge AKA the first village of the trail at 1895m. And for a well deserved break, you can relax with a cup of tea with a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley. Then, we'll also feast on an included lunch before setting off once more, towards the dense forestland of Shivapuri National Park. And at 2300m, we’ll end the night by checking into our lodge in Chisapani. After an included dinner, it's time to recharge for tomorrow.
Day 13: Chisapani To Nagarkot
Location: Nagarkot
Accommodation Name: Hiking Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
There's nothing like some mountain views and the sounds of birdsong to get you out of bed in the morning. Our trek recommences after our included breakfast today as we head to Nagarkot from Chisapani which takes around 3 hours. After about 2 hours of pleasant walking, we reach the settlement of Chauki Bhanjyang where we can rest for a while and eat lunch. Then we'll make our way through stunning mid-hill villages and terraced farmlands to Nagarkot. Nagarkot is probably the most popular hill station around Kathmandu Valley, offering unique views of the majestic Himalayas, deep valleys, and lush pine forests. Best of all, the sunrise and sunset views from this exotic hilltop are probably the best in or around Kathmandu, and we'll make sure we don't miss the sunset today before we head to our lodge and turn in for the night after dinner.
Day 14: Nagarkot To Dhulikhel
Location: Nagarkot
Accommodation Name: Hiking Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We recommend rising before dawn today to absorb that magical sunrise from Nagarkot. Thousands of visitors throng to Nagarkot every year to witness this spectacle so it'd be shame to miss out on the golden sun stretching over the glittering Himalayas. After breakfast, our 6 hour trek begins. We'll walk along an easy trail that penetrates through dense community forests and small mid-hill settlements to Dhulikhel. After six hours of fairly leisurely hiking, we'll reach Dhulikhel, which boasts traditional Newari culture and natural delights. The views of the Northeastern Himalayas from here are utterly mesmerizing. After we've posed for some pictures and had dinner we'll retreat to our lodge for the night.
Day 15: Dhulikhel To Kathmandu Via Namobuddha
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Hotel Shanker (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Our last day of hiking starts with another stunning sunrise view from Dhulikhel and another breakfast at our lodge. Our 4 hour trail today climbs up to the Kali Mandir - a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali - before dropping down to the village of Kavre and past a line of shops and tea houses. Through the pine woods of Phulbari we'll finally reach the hill of Namobuddha. Namobuddha rests at an elevation of 1750 m and is a sacred Buddhist Pilgrimage site. The shrines built in this lovely little hill mark a very ancient site where a legendary prince named Mahasattva offered to sacrifice himself to feed a starving Tigress with several young cubs. This legendary episode is depicted on a stone slab and placed right next to one of the holy Stupas on this hillside. After paying homage to Mahasattva, it's time to finish our trek and drive back to Kathmandu. Tonight we'll settle in for our last evening and swaps stories and photos of the adventure we've had.
Day 16: Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast our adventure ends today back where we started. But we won't forget those Himalayan sunsets in a hurry.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour, including The Ashtan Sarovar Portico, The India Hotel, La Place Sarovar Portico, The Retreat, Hotel Shanker, Chitwan Forest Resort, and Hiking Lodges.
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Meals
The tour includes 15 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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Guided Tours
Local guides are provided for sightseeing tours in cities like Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Kathmandu.
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Internal Flights
Internal flights are included from Delhi to Varanasi and from Delhi to Kathmandu.
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Jeep Safari
A jeep safari is included in Chitwan National Park for wildlife spotting.
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Trekking
Trekking experiences are included from Kathmandu to Chisapani, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and Namobuddha.
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Included Experiences
Experiences such as a rickshaw ride in Delhi, a boat ride on the River Ganges, and visits to the Taj Mahal and Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation Centre are included.
What's Not Included
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Visas
Visas for India and Nepal are not included and must be obtained separately by travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with air-conditioned coaches and flights between major destinations, including a flight from Delhi to Varanasi and another from Delhi to Kathmandu. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Ganges and a jeep safari in Chitwan National Park.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at The Ashtan Sarovar Portico in Delhi, The India Hotel in Varanasi, La Place Sarovar Portico in Lucknow, The Retreat in Agra, Hotel Shanker in Kathmandu, Chitwan Forest Resort in Chitwan National Park, and cozy hiking lodges in Nagarkot and Dhulikhel.
Dining Summary
15 Breakfast (B)5 Dinner (D)5 Lunch (L)
FAQs
Delhi: What Visa do I need for India & Nepal? Most travellers (everyone other than citizens of Nepal & Bhutan) need to get a 30-day e-visa when travelling to India. You can apply through the Government of India’s official website. Check out our visa guide for more info.Don’t forget - you’ll need this Ground Handler information when you apply for the e-visa: Travel Scope India Office No. 215, Qutab Plaza, Ashoka Crescent Marg, DLF Phase 1, Sector 26, Gurugram, Haryana 122002, India Phone: +91 124 499 9499For Nepal, everyone other than citizens of India need a visa. You can either get one on arrival. Or in some cases, you can get an e-visa (they tend to be temperamental though!). If you're applying on arrival, please bring passport photos and USD with you!Delhi: What are the luggage restrictions for India? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29”x 20”x 10”), with a max weight of 15kg (33lbs). Plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights. It might be a lower-than-normal weight allowance. But that’s the luggage limit for domestic flights. So remember to save some space for all that shopping!Got some overweight baggage? Don’t worry. You might be able to pay in cash for the extra weight. But you won’t be able to upgrade the luggage allowance before the start of the trip.Delhi: How do I make my way from Delhi Airport to the starting point? It’s simpler than you think! Once you exit the airport, look for the ‘Pre-Paid Taxi’ stall (with a yellow-sign). These taxis are run by the Delhi Police, and are very reliable. All you need to do is approach the counter and tell them you wanna go to ‘Green Park’ (that’s where our hotel is located, close to the metro station).Delhi: What currency do I need to visit India? The currency used in India is the Indian Rupee (?). Don’t forget to keep some cash in hand. But in case you forget, you’ll find ATMs readily accessible in cities.Kathmandu: Is there a Trip Manager on the trips to Nepal? If you’re on the Delhi to Kathmandu Quest trip, you’ll have a Trip Manager with you.For Nepal Trek & Temples and Nepal Trek Challenge there isn’t a Contiki Trip Manager because these treks are conducted by our trusted third party operator. But don’t worry, you’ll still have an experienced local guide with you.
Included Experience
Delhi: Here’s your chance to tick the Raj Ghat, Sikh Temple and a rickshaw ride off your to-do list. All in one day.Varanasi: Feel the love for your new Contiki fam and count your blessings, as you watch a Hindu spiritual ceremony from the River Ganges.Varanasi: Time to take to the sky. Varanasi, here we come!Varanasi: Explore this spiritual hotspot: said to be where Buddha delivered his first sermon. A pilgrimage for Buddhists across the globe.Varanasi: A near-spiritual experience. Watch the skies glow in a rainbow of colours as you sail down the river and watch the city wake up.Lucknow: For epic architecture and mythical bazaars, don’t miss the technicolour sights of this city. Includes the Great Imambara and La Martiniere.Lucknow: This non-profit organisation works to rehabilitate survivors of acid attacks – providing employment opportunities and generally raising awareness of the issue. Your heart may ache, but you’ll come away feeling a sense of hope and admiration for the survivors too. You’ll also have your chance to support the organisation by buying drinks and snacks onsite.Agra: This majestic building is one of India’s star attractions. And it feels like you’ve stepped onto a Bollywood film set.Agra: This one needs no introduction. Epic in the pictures. Out-of-this-world IRL.Delhi: Time to take to the sky. Nepal, here we come!Agra: There’s nothing quite like having an elephant as your new BFF. Hang out with the gentle giants at this sanctuary.Chitwan National Park: Climb into your Jeep and buckle up for an action-packed day. Look out for one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants and peacocks.Kathmandu: Explore this jam-packed, rainbow-coloured melting pot of a city, with its mythical views of the Himalayas. Patan Durbar Square is a must-see.: Climb to a Tamang village, stop for a cuppa and see epic views over Kathmandu Valley. Then visit Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.Nagarkot: Start your day with an epic sunrise, then take a leisurely six-hour trek to a mountain village where you’ll meet Newari natives.Nagarkot: Get your head in the clouds, literally. This mountaintop village is famed for its spellbinding sunsets and epic vistas of the Himalayas.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of experiences can I expect during the river Ganges visit in Varanasi?
During the visit to the river Ganges in Varanasi, you will board a small boat at dawn to watch the Ghat come to life as pilgrims bathe in the holy river. You will witness the spiritual activities and explore the narrow lanes of the riverside, experiencing the vibrant life along the Ganges.
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What wildlife might I see during the visit to Chitwan National Park?
In Chitwan National Park, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including rhinos, deer, monkeys, elephants, sloth bears, and possibly the majestic Bengal Tiger. The park offers one of the best wildlife spotting experiences, especially during the jungle walk and jeep safari.
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What is the significance of the visit to Sarnath near Varanasi?
Sarnath is a significant location because it is said to be where Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. It is a holy site for Buddhists and offers a glimpse into ancient religious history.
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What can I expect from the trekking experience from Kathmandu to Chisapani?
The trek from Kathmandu to Chisapani involves a 5-hour hike through forests, reservoirs, and dams up to the Shivapuri ridge. You will enjoy panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and trek through the dense forestland of Shivapuri National Park, ending the day at a lodge in Chisapani.
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What is special about the sunrise and sunset views in Nagarkot?
Nagarkot is renowned for its unique views of the majestic Himalayas, deep valleys, and lush pine forests. The sunrise and sunset views from this hilltop are considered some of the best in or around Kathmandu, offering a breathtaking spectacle.
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What cultural experiences are included in the visit to Lucknow?
In Lucknow, you will explore the city's rich cultural heritage with a locally guided sightseeing tour. Highlights include the La Martiniere building and the Asafi Imambara, as well as the opportunity to experience the city's famous Awadhi cuisine through a culinary walk.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
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