Premium India & Nepal

Intrepid Travel · 19 days

3.7

6 Reviews

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.

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (17), Lunch (4), Dinner (10)
Accommodation: Hotel (13 nights), Jaipur Feature Stay (2 nights), Chitwan Feature Stay (2 nights)

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 Signature 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 Signature Experiences, including a cruise down the Ganges with local musicians, and a cooking class celebrating the culinary traditions of the Kathmandu valley.
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

Guide Language

English

Starts

Delhi, India

Finishes

Kathmandu, India

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer, Budget

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 transferred 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 Park Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Delhi

To get your bearings of Old Delhi, start today with a leader-led tour of the most ancient part of the city. Your leader will help you navigate the metro system so you can then explore the impressive Mughal architecture on foot. 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 Park Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Jaipur

Journey to Jaipur – the capital of Rajasthan. When you arrive, you’ll head to 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 with regal touches at every turn – think chandeliers, stained-glass windows and peacocks roaming the grounds. Later, join your leader on a walking tour in one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in India as you 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:

Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk
Jaipur - Home-cooked dinner

Accommodation:

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

Day 4: Jaipur

After breakfast, take a guided tour of the iconic Amber Fort, learning stories of a fallen empire as you explore ornate rooms, murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Head to the City Palace in the heart of the Pink City – constructed by Jaipur’s founder in a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. This afternoon is free to spend as you wish. Maybe visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory – one of the world’s most accurate pre-modern observatories – or float over the city in a hot air balloon. This evening, join your group for a Signature Experience at Kishore Niwas – a sixth-generation haveli with deep ties to Jaipur’s royal past. Your hosts will share personal stories and family traditions as you sip heritage liqueurs on the rooftop while the city glows below. After, you’ll probably want to sample some Rajasthani street food, like pyaaz kachori (a crispy pastry filled with spiced onion).

Included Activities:

Jaipur - Amber Fort
Jaipur - City Palace
Jaipur – Haveli visit with local family

Accommodation:

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

Day 5: Agra

Today, you’ll head 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 local guide will tell you its history as you stroll the grounds at sunset. For dinner tonight, your leader can recommend a great local spot to try the best curries.

Included Activities:

Agra - Taj Mahal

Accommodation:

Grand Mercure or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Lucknow

This morning, you’ll visit Agra Fort – the seat of the Mughal Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The present structure was built by Akbar as the first buildings on the eastern banks of Yamuna River. After, you’ll head off to Lucknow – the capital of India’s largest region, Uttar Pradesh. When you arrive, your leader will guide the group on an afternoon walk to help you get your bearings. This evening, head out for dinner at 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
Agra - Agra Fort

Accommodation:

Centrum Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Lucknow

Seize the day with a morning 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. If you were impressed by Lucknow’s cuisine last night, you’ll be delighted with this afternoon’s cooking class. Discover the culinary secrets of Lucknowites, gaining skills that you can hopefully put to good use at home!

Included Activities:

Lucknow City Tour
Lucknow – Awadhi Cooking Class

Accommodation:

Centrum Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Varanasi

Wake up early today for a unique slice of Indian life aboard an air-conditioned train. With more than 21 million people travelling by train across India each day, the rail network is one of the busiest in the world, so you can expect a lively and bustling atmosphere. 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:

Varanasi - Ganges candle flower ceremony
Varanasi – Orientation Walk
Varanasi - Evening Ganga aarti

Accommodation:

Madin Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Varanasi

Early risers, this one’s for you – embark 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, hop into an e-rickshaw, saying ‘Namaste’ to your female driver from Holy City Rickshaws, and weave through the bustling streets of Banaras. Stop at iconic eateries and street food stalls to try chaat, crispy samosas, golden jalebis, refreshing lassi and sweet, aromatic chai served in earthen cups – you’ll quickly understand why Banaras is known as the ‘city of breakfasts’. This afternoon, visit Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations and where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon on the path to enlightenment. The site features several stupas and museums to explore. 

Included Activities:

Sarnath - Museum Visit
Sarnath - Stupa Visit
Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip with musicians on boat
Varanasi – Breakfast Rickshaw Food Tour

Accommodation:

Madin Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Delhi

It’s the penultimate day today and time to return to Delhi. 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 group dinner. 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 (650 INR)
Delhi - Qutub Minar (650 INR)
Delhi - Red Fort (650 INR)

Accommodation:

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

Day 11: Kathmandu

Today you’ll travel to Kathmandu for 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, 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 Thamel and Jyatha neighbourhoods for dinner with your leader and group – 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:

Yak and Yeti Kathmandu (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Kathmandu

After breakfast, 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

Optional Activities:

Kathmandu - Everest scenic flight (subject to fuel cost changes) (295 USD)

Accommodation:

Yak and Yeti Kathmandu (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Nagarkot

This morning, join a cooking class to gain a true understanding of Nepal’s culinary heritage, founded and led by local Nepali women with a passion for conserving, promoting and sharing the rich food culture of the indigenous people of the Kathmandu valley. You’ll learn about the traditions that have spanned centuries and 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, begin the journey to Nagarkot, stopping at Bhaktapur along the way – a beautifully preserved ancient city, home to many temples and statues. Explore three of the most important squares – Durbar, Taumadhi and Pottery square – before continuing your journey. When you arrive, 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 relaxing sundowner while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains as the sun sets. Start with a local cocktail and Nepalese masala tea before tucking into sel roti’a (traditional Nepali ring-shaped fried bread). This bread symbolises good fortune, peace and family unity and you’ll watch it being made before tucking in – yum!

Included Activities:

Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour
Kathmandu - Cooking class
Nagarkot – Sundowner and Sel Roti’a cooking demo

Accommodation:

Club Himalaya or similar (1 night) (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 Annapurna Range, 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 tastebuds, 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 (1 night) (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 of climbing expeditions from the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. After some time at the museum, you’ll visit a local 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 momos (steamed dumplings), which you’ll then eat together for lunch. Later, 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 (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Chitwan

After breakfast, make the morning drive to Chitwan National Park 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 the park, this jungle oasis offers first-class service and naturally warm Nepali hospitality. After settling in, you’ll venture from the lodge to your Signature Experience with the Tharu community. This indigenous group has inhabited the Terai plains of southern Nepal and northern India for centuries, and you’re invited to experience their culture and lifestyle, religious practices and cooking methods. You’ll sip local tea and, if you wish, raksi (traditional alcohol), learning how it’s prepared. Chat with senior community members about their life on the plains, then head to the Rapti River, champagne sundowner in hand. Watch for egrets, storks and maybe even a sloth bear in this beautiful spot – don't worry, your wildlife guide can help you identify what you’re seeing. End the evening with a special bush dinner, as the stars start to pop out above you.

Included Activities:

Chitwan – Tharu community visit
Chitwan – Sundowner by the Rapti River
Chitwan - Private bush dinner

Accommodation:

Barahi Jungle Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Chitwan

After breakfast, leave the lodge for an early morning dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. Your local guide 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 to see the park’s varied flora and fauna. 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 - Canoe Safari
Chitwan - Jeep Safari Tour

Accommodation:

Barahi Jungle Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Kathmandu

Have breakfast at the resort before driving back to Kathmandu. After arriving back in the capital, you’re free to explore and further soak up this vibrant city. Tonight, join your leader and group for a farewell dinner at Kaiser Café. The restaurant is a short walk from the hotel, so you can take this opportunity for a final stroll through town before one last taste of Nepal’s delicious traditional food.

Accommodation:

Yak and Yeti Kathmandu (1 night) (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 (unless otherwise stated)
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 will do 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.

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 $9,730

(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 18 Feb 2027

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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

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