Essential Nepal & India (4 Star Hotels)

Greetings to Nepal! Look out for the Travel Talk sign upon arrival at the terminal, as we'll be there to receive you from the airport and transport you to our hotel in Kathmandu. Join us at 6:30pm in the hotel lobby for a casual gathering with the tour guide and fellow group members. Following the meeting, you're welcome to participate in an optional group dinner.

We commence the day by discovering Kathmandu City, Swyambhunath, and Patan. Our initial destination will be Swayambhunath, an age-old religious edifice situated atop a hill within the Kathmandu Valley, featuring a Buddhist Stupa believed to exceed 2000 years in age. This hill also encompasses an array of small Chaityas and Pagoda-style temples. Our subsequent visit will be to Kathmandu City, renowned as Kantipur. During this visit, you will explore the residence of the Living Goddess, who acknowledges devotees' greetings from her temple balcony and Kasthamandap temple that lends its name to Kathmandu.In the afternoon, we venture to the historical city of Patan, formerly a kingdom of its own. The Patan Durbar Square showcases exceptional Newari urban architecture and boasts temples dedicated to Shiva, Krishna, Ganesh, and Vishnu, all frequented by worshippers. In the late afternoon, you have leisure time to explore the city.

We have an early start to drive for about 6 hours to reach the Pokhara after breakfast which is the second largest city in Nepal and enjoy the landscape on the way to Pokhara. Meet your trekking guide get prepared for the next day once all done you’ll be able to wander around the beautiful lake city known for its superb mountain views. It is an enchanting city nestled beneath the snow-crested Annapurna Massif in a tranquil valley and is the starting point for many of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations. The atmosphere on the shore of Phewa Lake is one of excited vitality as backpackers crowd the many bars and restaurants. At an elevation lower than Kathmandu and generally a few degrees warmer, Pokhara has a tropical feel to it and has the diversity of beautiful subtropical flora.

We begin our trekking expedition on the inaugural day, commencing with a private transport journey to Nayapul, the gateway to our destination, the Australian Camp. Situated atop picturesque hills, this camp provides an awe-inspiring panorama of the snow-capped peaks encompassing the Annapurna range, including Hiunchuli, Fish Tail, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu. Our path takes us on a gradual descent to Pothana, followed by a pause at Deurali for lunch. Post lunch, we embark on a gradual ascent leading us to Tolka, our overnight stop, where local lodges provide accommodations. Here, a splendid vista of Annapurna South and Himchuli mountains unfolds before your eyes.

Today marks the start of our trek's descent, treating you to vistas of the majestic Annapurna mountain range. As you journey onward, you'll traverse additional Gurung villages, affording you glimpses into their expansive farming communities. Continuing along the path, you'll arrive at the charming settlements of Pothana and Dhampus. Among the renowned tourist villages in western Nepal, Dhampus boasts awe-inspiring panoramic sights of the Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayan mountain ranges. The evening entails dinner and an overnight stay at a local lodge.

Embarking on an early morning departure, you'll have the opportunity to relish the vibrant sunrise casting hues upon the Himalayas. Subsequently, an uncomplicated downhill trek leads you to Phedi, traversing through rice fields and quaint cottages along the way. Upon your arrival in Phedi village, our vehicle will be ready to transport you back to Pokhara and onward as we continue our journey to Chitwan.

We have full day of exciting jungle activities today. The best way to reach the national park is by a jungle safari where you’ll end up at Chitwan National Park. This is considered one of the richest wildlife areas in Asia and boasts the last and largest remaining area of tall grassland habitat. Not to be compared with the wide open spaces of Africa, the intimacy of the search and discovery of Asian wildlife in its dense habitat is considered by many travellers to be equally rewarding and exciting.

Following breakfast, we return to Kathmandu by vehicle and transfer to airport for our flight to Delhi. Enjoy some personal leisure time and get ready for the second leg of your discovery!

At around 8:30 am today, you'll begin your sightseeing tour in Delhi with your guide. Old Delhi unveils the enchanting charm of India's history, culture, and traditions, while the captivating New Delhi showcases the modern face of the country. Begin with a visit to Jama Masjid, one of Asia's largest mosque. Explore the bustling Chandni Chowk, Asia's largest wholesale market, teeming with shops, bazaars, and vibrant life. Drive past the magnificent Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Pay respects at Raj Ghat, a simple yet powerful memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.Continuing to New Delhi, witness the British legacy with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Qutub Minar. The Imperial Delhi part of the tour includes a drive past India Gate, a monumental war memorial arch, as well as the Parliament House, Secretariat buildings, and the Vice Regal Palace

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll embark on a scenic 4-hour drive to Agra. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, get ready for the optional "Discovering Oriental Agra" program, designed to connect you with the essence of this incredible city. Or, join jour guide for an orientation walk among the highlights of Agra.For an eco-friendly and immersive experience, the tour is conducted using battery-operated rickshaws. Your journey will encompass various significant places in the city. You'll rewind to the time of Emperor Shahjehan at Dara Shikoh's library, where intellectual and literary conversations thrived. You'll also visit the birthplace of the esteemed poet Mirza Ghalib in the Kala Mahal locality, as well as the headquarters of the Radhasoami faith at Dayalbagh.Other highlights include the Mankameshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the country, and several churches, including the historic Akbar Church built by Emperor Akbar in 1598. AccommodationHoward Plaza - 4 Star - Or similar MealsBreakfast Optional ActivitiesOriental Agra - USD 48

In the early morning, embark on a visit to the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal stands as an epitome of Mughal architecture and a poignant symbol of India's rich history. Constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century as an expression of love for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this grand monument is undeniably one of the world's wonders. Its breathtaking marble inlay work, particularly when observed up close, is truly astounding, leaving visitors mesmerized by its brilliance.After the Taj Mahal visit, return to your hotel for breakfast and enjoy a leisurely morning to relax. Later, continue your explorations with a visit to the Agra Fort and the Tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah, a remarkable Mughal mausoleum constructed in honor of Mumtaz Mahal's grandfather. The tomb is affectionately known as the "jewel box" or the "Baby Taj." AccommodationHoward Plaza - 4 Star - Or similar MealsBreakfast Included ActivitiesAgra City TourSightseeing of Taj Mahal Entrance FeesTaj Mahal - USD 18Agra Fort - USD 9Tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah - USD 5

After enjoying breakfast, your journey continues towards Ranthambore with an enroute stop at the remarkable Fatehpur Sikri.Situated in the province of Uttar Pradesh, Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. This world heritage site boasts one of the best-preserved collections of Mughal architecture in India. Marvel at the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque, the intricately designed palaces constructed for Emperor Akbar's wives, the grand public and private discussion halls, and the vast ornamental pool.After a captivating exploration of Fatehpur Sikri, continue your journey towards the mesmerizing Ranthambore.

Start your day with an early morning Game safari at Ranthambore National Park (from 6:00 am to 9:30 am) on a Shared Canter Safari.After breakfast, continue your journey towards the enchanting "Pink City - Jaipur," which is approximately 160 kilometers away, taking around 3.30 hours from Ranthambore.Upon reaching Jaipur, check-in at your hotel and take some time to unwind.In your leisure time, you have the option to join a delightful Cooking Lesson. Early evening, embark on a cooking lesson with a local Indian family.What to Expect:No trip to India is complete without experiencing its rich culinary heritage with a local family. Immerse yourself in this exclusive time with your host, discovering their secret ancestral and family recipes, age-old culinary techniques, and health-conscious ingredients. Delve into the specialty of Jaipuri cooking art and gain insights into various aspects of Indian lifestyle.This unique opportunity allows you to learn to prepare a complete Indian meal with your host. It goes beyond just cooking; it is also about enjoying an unforgettable communal dining experience in the comfort of an Indian home. The warmth of the Indian hospitality combined with the delicious flavors of the cuisine promises an exceptional and memorable experience.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a full-day city tour led by your private guide.During the morning, explore the city's highlights, starting with the impressive City Palace. This grand complex boasts exquisite palaces, gardens, courtyards, and intricately carved doorways. Stroll to the adjacent Jantar Mantar, an Astronomical Observatory built in the 18th century. Don't miss the opportunity for a photo-stop at the picturesque Patrika Gate.As an optional activity, in the late afternoon, indulge in a bazaar walk coupled with local food tasting. In 1727, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh decided to shift the Kachwaha rulers' bastion from Amber to a larger and more spacious capital.

After a delicious breakfast, check out from your hotel in Jaipur and embark on a journey just outside the city to the historic capital of Amber. Here, you will marvel at the magnificent Amber Fort, a testament to the grandeur and splendor of the bygone era. En route, enjoy a photo stop at the iconic "Palace of Winds," famously known as Hawa Mahal, an architectural gem adorned with intricate latticework.Later, you will be driven back to Delhi, a journey of approximately 5 hours. Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be transferred to a hotel located nearby the airport, ensuring a convenient and comfortable stay for the night.

Experience seamless assistance and a hassle-free airport transfer as you prepare to board your onward flight for an unforgettable journey. Bid farewell to the splendid India until your next great adventure!