Premium India & Nepal

Intrepid Travel · 19 days

3.7

6 Reviews

View Map

Duration

19 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Experience India’s Golden Triangle and Nepal’s mountain peaks on this 19-day Premium adventure from Delhi to Kathmandu. Discover the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, witness the Mughal splendours of Delhi and Agra, savour the many flavours of Lucknow cuisine and soak up the ambience of holy Varanasi.

Highlights

Discover the beauty of both India and Nepal, from Jaipur’s Amber Fort and Agra’s iconic Taj Mahal to the mighty Himalayas.
Taste the best of Indian cuisine during Exclusive Experiences, including a street food tour in Varanasi, a home-cooked meal hosted by a local family in Jaipur and a cooking class in Lucknow.
Enjoy two Feature Stays – an elegant heritage hotel in Jaipur, built in 1928, and a stylish resort perfectly placed on the banks of the Rapti River.
Uncover different sides of local culture during Exclusive Experiences, including a cruise down the Ganges with local musicians, and a cooking demonstration at a Tibetan community in Nepal.
Spot crocodiles, elephants and Bengal tigers at the subtropical Chitwan National Park.

Trip Details

Duration

19 days

Transportation

Auto rickshaw,Boat,Cycle rickshaw,Metro,Plane,Private vehicle,Jeep,Canoe

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Delhi, India

Finishes

Kathmandu, India

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Delhi

Namaste! Welcome to India. When you arrive at Delhi Airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and an included transfer will bring you to your hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, you can explore this exciting capital city at your own pace. Filled with historical landmarks, museums, galleries and endless bazaars, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. After your meeting, head out for dinner at one of Delhi’s oldest restaurants. Having opened its doors more than 80 years ago, the iconic restaurant is credited with introducing India to ice cream and fine dining.

Included Activities:

Delhi - Welcome dinner

Accommodation:

The Grand Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Delhi

Start the day with a leader-led tour of the most ancient part of the city in Old Delhi. It’s not Delhi without a traffic jam, so hop aboard a traditional rickshaw and weave your way around the streets surrounding the Chandi Chowk marketplace. Stop by India’s oldest and largest mosque, the Jama Masjid, before heading into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara to observe the capital’s spiritual side. You have a free evening ahead to relax and recharge. Tap into your leader’s local expertise for food and activity recommendations that match your mood.

Included Activities:

Old Delhi City Tour
Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
Delhi - Jama Masjid (Shoe Keeper)
Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque

Accommodation:

The Grand Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Agra

Today, you’ll head south to Agra. After a scenic drive, settle into your new hotel before visiting India’s most iconic landmark – the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A tribute to his belated wife, Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this famous monument in 1632 to house her remains. Your Taj Mahal guide will tell you its history as you stroll the grounds at sunset. You’re likely familiar with North Indian cuisine (butter chicken anyone?), and tonight, your local expert will take you to unknown places on a street food tour. Stop by a 19th-century shop serving up age-old recipes from the Braj region of India for dinner tonight, where you’ll visit hyperlocal eateries that most tourists never get to see.

Included Activities:

Agra - Taj Mahal
Agra - Expert-led street food tour (as dinner)

Accommodation:

Grand Mercure Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Jaipur

Visit Agra Fort – widely considered one of the finest-looking forts in India. Learn how Akbar built a fortress and prison out of red sandstone in 1565 and how Shah Jahan transformed it into a palace. After, you’ll journey to Jaipur – the capital of Rajasthan – for your Feature Stay at the Hotel Narain Niwas Palace. This heritage hotel, managed by the same family since its opening in 1928, has the charm of a traditional family home but with regal touches at every turn – think chandeliers, stained glass windows and peacocks roaming the grounds. Later, join your leader on a walking tour through the crowded streets and stop by bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles, folk art and the local specialty of semi-precious stones. End the evening with a home-cooked dinner in the home of a local family and make the most of your time with your hosts, learning about their way of life.

Included Activities:

Agra - Agra Fort Visit
Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk
Jaipur - Home-cooked dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Jaipur

Trade one fort for the next as you visit Amber Fort, the crown jewel of Jaipur. On your guided tour you’ll learn stories of a fallen empire as you explore ornate rooms, murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Head to the City Palace – a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Tour the grounds and learn about its construction by the founder of Jaipur. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free for you to explore at your leisure. Maybe pay a visit to the Jantar Mantar Observatory, one the world’s most accurate pre-modern observatories which dates to 1729 or take in the city from the air in a balloon flight. You'll probably want to sample some Rajasthani street food after, like pyaaz kachori (crispy pastry filled with spiced onion).

Included Activities:

Jaipur - Amber Fort
Jaipur - City Palace

Optional Activities:

Jaipur - Balloon Safari (280 USD)
Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory (200 INR)

Accommodation:

Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Lucknow

Enjoy a leisurely morning before flying east to Lucknow – the capital of India’s largest region, Uttar Pradesh. When you arrive, your leader will guide the group on an afternoon orientation walk to help you get acquainted with your new surroundings. This evening, join your group for dinner at a special spot – a restaurant that supports and empowers acid attack survivors. These courageous women, once too scared to leave their homes due to the physical and emotional scars of their attacks, have found refuge and a source of income through their work at the cafe.

Included Activities:

Lucknow - Orientation Walk
Lucknow - Sheroes Dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Lucknow

Start the morning with a tour of Lucknow, where your leader will show you some of the city’s best spots. This might include a stop at the intricate Bara Imambara – a hall built in 1784 for Shia Muslims. Its labyrinthine layout of narrow passages and staircases is best navigated with the help of a knowledgeable local. Discover the culinary secrets of Lucknowites with an afternoon cooking class, gaining skills that you can hopefully put to good use at home! For dinner, maybe try to find somewhere serving Tunday Kebabi (a Lucknow delicacy that allegedly contains 160 spices).

Included Activities:

Lucknow City Tour
Lucknow – Awadhi Cooking Class

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Varanasi

Wake up early today for a unique slice of Indian life aboard an airconditioned train. Although you will have your breakfast packed with you, don’t miss out on an opportunity to interact with the local vendors who board the train at various stops to sell snacks and Indian Chai tea. The ride to Varanasi offers a unique glimpse of the countryside from the comfort of your seat. When you’ve checked into your hotel, join the group for a walking tour of the city widely known as India’s spiritual capital. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise on the Ganges. You’ll be joined by local musicians on board, who will play as you watch the flower and candle ceremony – an experience that will surely stay with you long after your time in India is over.

Included Activities:

Orientation Walk in Varanasi
Varanasi - Evening Ganga aarti with musicians on boat
Varanasi - Ganges candle flower ceremony

Accommodation:

Ramada Katesar or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Varanasi

Head out on a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where your leader will explain the significance of India’s most sacred river while gliding past the many ghats and temples on its banks. After, explore at your own pace before coming together again at Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The site is where Buddha preached his message of the path to enlightenment and features several stupas and museums to explore.

Included Activities:

Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
Sarnath Museum Visit
Sarnath Stupa Visit

Accommodation:

Ramada Katesar or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Delhi

Travel back to Delhi today. When you land, the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. There are plenty of sites you may have missed the first time around, like Humayun’s Tomb – a garden tomb dating back to 1570 – or Qutb Minar, the highest tower in India. Your leader can help you book any activities you wish to do before your final dinner as a group. You’ll head to a beautiful haveli dating back to 1887. Tuck into a feast of Mughlai cuisine, street food dishes and kebabs in a historical setting – the perfect finale to your Indian adventure.

Included Activities:

Farewell Dinner at Haveli Dharampura

Optional Activities:

Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure (3750 INR)
Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
Delhi - Red Fort (600 INR)

Accommodation:

The Grand Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Kathmandu

Today you’ll travel to Kathmandu and embark on the second half of your trip. You’ll have a second group meeting at 6 pm tonight, to meet your new group members and leader. Until then, settle into Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal which enjoys the accolade of one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities. Maybe take a walk around the Garden of Dreams or check out Kathmandu’s architecture. After your meeting, head out into the hustle and bustle of the Thamel and Jyatha neighbourhoods for dinner with your leader and group. Eating in Nepal is never boring – maybe try some woh (a pancake made from freshly ground black lentils) or Kukhurako Masu (chicken cooked Nepali style).

Included Activities:

Kathmandu - Welcome dinner
Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer

Accommodation:

Hotel Soaltee Kathmandu (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Kathmandu

After breakfast this morning, explore Kathmandu on a sightseeing tour with your leader. Head to the lively Durbar square – the once glorious centre of Nepal’s royal power. Visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the surrounding monasteries. Stop by a Thangka painting studio and gain inside knowledge on this sacred and traditional form of Buddhist art and the training that goes into being a Thangka artist. Visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, where you’ll see Hindu holy men meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The rest of your afternoon is free for further explorations.

Included Activities:

Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
Kathmandu - Durbar Square
Kathmandu - Boudhanath Stupa and Monastery visit
Kathmandu - Thangka Painting Studio Visit
Kathmandu - Swayambhunath Temple

Optional Activities:

Kathmandu - Everest scenic flight (240 USD)

Accommodation:

Soaltee Kathmandu (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Nagarkot

This morning, visit the headquarters of Sungava Nepal – a social enterprise that works to improve the lives of disadvantaged women in Nepal. Meet the local women and hear how the enterprise has changed their lives. Tour their greenhouse and learn about Nepali vegetables, then learn some traditional recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Master the local methods of cooking and put together some classic dishes, then sit down to lunch with your new friends. After lunch, begin the journey to Nagarkot. Along the way, stop off at Bhaktapur – a beautifully preserved ancient city, home to many temples and statues. Explore three of the most important squares – Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square and Pottery Square – before continuing to Nagarkot, where you'll prepare for an overnight stay at Club Himalaya, renowned for its unrestricted view of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan and the surrounding areas. End the day with a toast to your amazing view over sunset cocktails.

Included Activities:

Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour
Nagarkot - Sunset local cocktail at Club Himalaya (one drink included)
Kathmandu - Cooking class at Sungava Nepal

Accommodation:

Club Himalaya or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Pokhara

Wake up and witness an early morning 180-degree sunrise view before travelling to Kathmandu airport by chartered coach. From here, you’ll fly to Pokhara – if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Himalayan Mountain chain to the north. When you arrive, take a boat ride across the lake of Phewa Tal – the second largest lake in Nepal. Visit the Peace Pagoda for excellent views of the mountains including the Annapurnas, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and a glimpse back across to Pokhara. In the afternoon, maybe take some time to enjoy Pokhara’s mellow atmosphere and wander its colourful streets or take a stroll along the lake and see the brightly painted paddle boats in the water. Pokhara has no shortage of restaurants to tempt your taste buds so be sure to ask your leader for some great local recommendations.

Included Activities:

Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip
Pokhara - Peace Pagoda

Accommodation:

Hotel Barahi or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Pokhara

Start the day with a visit to Sarangkot Viewpoint for a sunrise over the snowcapped Himalayan peaks, from the Annapurna Ranges to Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre). Your leader will be on hand to answer any questions about the landscape. Then, head to the International Mountain Museum, which is full of fascinating tales and exploits from climbing expeditions of the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. After some time at the museum, visit a Tibetan community. Hear stories of their journey from Tibet to Nepal, learn about local life and take part in a traditional cooking demonstration to find out how to make delicious momos (steamed dumplings), which you’ll then eat together for lunch. Enjoy a free evening in Pokhara.

Included Activities:

Pokhara - Tibetan community visit with momo lunch
Pokhara - International Mountain Museum
Pokhara - Sarangkot Viewpoint

Accommodation:

Hotel Barahi or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Chitwan National Park

After breakfast, make the morning drive to Chitwan and arrive at your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights – Barahi Jungle Lodge. Perfectly positioned on the banks of the Rapti River, opposite Chitwan National Park, this jungle oasis offers first-class service and naturally warm Nepali hospitality. After settling in, there’s some flexibility with activities in the afternoon, which may vary depending on the time of year and known wildlife movements and locations. In the late afternoon, you might like to go down to the Rapti River and enjoy a cool beverage and snacks on the banks while you watch the sunset and the birds return home. Back at the resort, you’ll have a group dinner this evening.

Included Activities:

Chitwan NP - Village tour

Accommodation:

Barahi Jungle Lodge (feature stay) or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Chitwan National Park

After breakfast, leave the lodge for an early morning dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. Your tour leader will help you spot marsh mugger crocodiles along with the various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but you might see one if you’re lucky! When you return to dry land, set out on a late afternoon safari, showing the varied flora and fauna of the park. In the evening, enjoy dinner with your group and relax at your accommodation’s bar while discussing the day’s sightings or listening to the songs of the jungle.

Included Activities:

Chitwan - Sunset Snacks by Rapti River
Chitwan - Private bush dinner (on hotel grounds)
Chitwan - Canoe Safari
Chitwan - Jeep Safari Tour

Accommodation:

Barahi Jungle Lodge (feature stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Kathmandu

Enjoy breakfast at the resort before driving back to Kathmandu. The afternoon free for you to learn more of Nepal’s cultural heritage – maybe visit the Nepali Folk Musical Instrument Museum, home to more than 650 unique instruments. Tonight, you might want to join your leader and group for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, leaving you with a final memory of Nepal’s delicious traditional food.

Accommodation:

Soaltee Kathmandu or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Kathmandu

Your Nepali adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you’d like to extend your stay in Kathmandu, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $9,995

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 19 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 20 Nov 2025

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Julie

Traveled, November 2023

11/22/2023

Intrepid's Premium India and Nepal trip is one not to miss! The itinerary was perfect with activities and sites that were amazing. The extra level of comfort (nice hotels) and the included aspects (included local tips, extra included meals, super fun rickshaw rides) were worth it to have a wonderful trip. I am well traveled and this is one of my top trips of a lifetime. Our guides were top notch in every aspect. Don't miss this trip!

4.5

Carol

Traveled, October 2023

11/04/2023

We have not encountered a holiday with Intrepid before but in future we will seek out holidays where there are Intrepid leaders. We felt very safe.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now