Compare Delhi to Kathmandu: River Walks & Epic Wildlife by G Adventures vs Northern India & Nepal 2023 by Tauck

Day 1 Delhi

Arrive at any time and welcome to India's bustling capital - Delhi! Embark on an afternoon orientation tour visiting Connaught Place and India Gate for those iconic photos. Tonight, wander through the electric Karol Bagh market for your first night out; pick the best looking spot and cheers to new adventures and friends!

Please note that if you arrive after 14:00, you may miss the welcome meeting and orientation tour.

Day 2 Delhi/Pushkar

Travel by train through the arid terrain to Pushkar, often called Tirth Raj or the "king of pilgrim centres," home to the world’s only temple for the Hindu god of creation, Brahma. Get your bearings on an orientation walk around the colourful city visiting the lake, ghats, and of course the 14th century Brahama temple. Spend some time this afternoon exploring the markets or opt for an unforgettable evening by dressing in traditional Indian clothes before partaking in an authentic dinner cooked by cameleers in the desert while enjoying live entertainment!

Day 3 Pushkar/Jaipur

Before dawn, climb to the hilltop Savitri Temple and catch the sun rising over the towering Thar Desert mountains. Afterward, travel by bus ⁠— always an adventure itself in India ⁠— to the pink city of Jaipur, home to India’s second most visited site, the Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds." Enjoy an orientation walk through the market stalls.

Feeling hungry? Choose to visit Kitchen With A Cause and have a delicious meal that allows you to give back to the community.

Day 4 Jaipur

Embark on a guided tour of Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site to check off your bucket list. The Fort's sandstone walls are perched on a hill almost blending in with the terrain, besides perfectly reflecting in Maota Lake creating a mirage effect (and perfect photograph). Wander through the halls, courtyards, and palaces inside and admire the intricate details. Afterward, head back to Jaipur and spend the free afternoon exploring the city with your fellow travellers and see where the night takes you.

Opt to visit the City Palace with its fine collection of textiles and costumes or admire the mind-boggling architecture of Hawa Mahal. Discover more of the wisdom and history of the Mughals by wandering around the Jantar Mantar, an observatory built in the 1700's, or opt to sit back and relax if you like - sipping a cocktail in any of the luxuriously converted palaces. Opt to get active by pre-booking a cycle tour or sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking a cooking class with a local family. If you aren't afraid of heights, pre-book a balloon ride to get an aerial view of the pink city.

Day 5 Jaipur/Āgra

Travel by early morning train to the Muslim city of Agra, site of India’s most famous landmark - the Taj Mahal! Immerse yourself in a guided tour and learn of the mausoleums unique history as you admire the iconic Mughal architecture.

If you want to see more of Jaipur before departing, pre-book the Cycle Tour and explore the city from a morning perspective.

Day 6 Āgra/Varanasi

Spend the day getting to know Agra. Opt for a cycle rickshaw ride to visit Baby Taj and the Agra Fort, the Taj’s less famous—but no less impressive—sister monument, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, board an overnight train and wake up in Varanasi.

Day 7 Varanasi

Take an orientation walk along Varanasi's ghats and through the old city. Afterward, opt to explore the temples and take in the spiritual energy of the city, or hop on a boat and sail the sacred Ganges River. If you take an evening boat ride, you will have the opportunity to witness a candle flower ceremony.

Day 8 Varanasi

Another day, another adventure in Varanasi. Enjoy a free day to uniquely explore the spiritual capital of India. Opt to bathe in the sacred waters or visit Kashi Vishwanath, the Golden Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Varanasi is your oyster!

Pre-book the Varanasi Heritage Walk and enjoy a guided tour that focuses more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. Pre-book the Guided Visit of Sarnath and learn about the life of the Buddha. Discover the archeological ruins of the monastery. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan and stop to admire the Buddha statue during the three hours of guided exploration.

Day 9 Varanasi/Lumbini

Today we leave India and travel to the peaceful land of Nepal. Step back in time and experience Buddha's birthplace - Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and pilgrimage centre. Opt to visit the Maya Devi Temple, where the Queen gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama.

This will be a longer travel day as it may take up to 12 hours to reach the city of Lumbini. Settle in with your fellow travellers and get to know each other as you take in the scenery.

It is possible for most nationalities to get a Nepalese visa at the border; you will need at least one passport size photograph and $30 USD. Nepal is 15 minutes ahead of India, time wise.

Day 10 Lumbini/Royal Chitwan National Park

Experience Nepali rural life at Barauli Village homestay, a G Adventures–supported project. Take an orientation walk, visiting friendly homes and learn about the Tharu daily life. Opt to venture to the Narayani river on a cycle tour.

Day 11 Royal Chitwan National Park

Enjoy a free day to explore the surrounding village and rice paddies before spending another night with the Tharu community. Opt to take a jeep safari through the diverse ecosystem of Chitwan National Park for a chance to witness rhinos, crocodiles, monkeys, and maybe even the elusive bengal tiger.

Day 12 Royal Chitwan National Park/Pokhara

Travel from the peaceful plains towards the mystical Himalayan mountains, stopping in Pokhara. Get your bearings in town on an orientation walk. Be sure to capture a panoramic group photo with the stunning Annapurna range backdrop.

Day 13 Pokhara

Enjoy a cooking demonstration and learn how to make Nepalese momos (dumplings) before enjoying a traditional lunch together where you'll get to taste your own creations. In the afternoon, get to know Pokhara more in-depth by freely exploring this photogenic region. Gear up for your big night out at a lakeside bar with your new friends. Grab a drink on us and cheers to all the life-changing adventures you've just shared.

In the morning, opt to travel out to Mt Sarangkot (1592m), only 5 kms northeast of Pokhara, for a spectacular Himalayan sunrise over the surrounding mountains. The walk back down through farms and forest to Pokhara is wonderful and takes between 2-2.5 hours.

Day 14 Pokhara/Kathmandu

Travel the last leg of this trip through the wild, rugged Himalayan landscape to Nepal’s capital and largest city, Kathmandu. Get a feel for the city on an orientation walk. As Kathmandu is fascinating at every turn, simply wander around and see where chance, fate, or the city may lead you. Check out world-famous Durbar Square, King’s Palace, the burning ghats at Pashupatinath, or Boudhanath Stupa.

Day 15 Kathmandu

Today is departure day, but do not fret! There is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange social medias, and depart at any time.

If you wish to partake in the Everest Flight optional activity on the final day of tour, please do not book any outgoing flights from Kathmandu earlier than 11:00 am.

Day 1 Arrive New Delhi

Tour begins: 2:00 PM, The Imperial, New Delhi. A transfer is included from Indira Gandhi International Airport to The Imperial, New Delhi. Most international flights arrive between 11:00 PM and 3:00 AM local time, 10 1/2 hours ahead of the U.S. (EST). To ease the effects of jet lag, consider traveling to India a day early; ask at booking. You'll enjoy a Heritage Room at your landmark hotel, an iconic 5-star property occupying the most distinguished address in the heart of the capital. Your trip begins this afternoon with a welcome briefing by your Tauck Director, followed by a guided orientation tour of New Delhi including a drive through of Vijay Chowk, with views of the Secretariat buildings, Parliament House, the Presidential Palace and the India Gate, commemorating Indian and British soldiers. Next, stop at the Gandhi Smriti Museum, paying tribute to the inspiring leader, Mahatma Gandhi, who forced change through non-violent protest, leading to an independent India in the late 1940s. Join us this evening for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner.

MEALS : D

LODGING : The Imperial, New Delhi

PORTOFCALL : New Delhi, India

Day 2 Old & New Delhi, Past and Present

Discover not one, but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites today as you explore the centuries-old history and culture of Old Delhi and environs. Following a morning orientation tour of Old Delhi, visit Humayun's Tomb, constructed for the Mughal Emperor Humayan and other members of his family in the 1570s, and set within beautiful gardens. The first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent and the first large structure of its kind built of red sandstone, this Mughal creation popularized Persian-influenced architecture in India, and was an inspiration for the Taj Mahal in Agra. After lunch at a local restaurant, sightseeing continues as you marvel at the Qutb Minar Victory Tower, India's tallest minaret, five stories high. A red sandstone tower built in 1193 and covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran, it is part of one of the earliest surviving mosque complexes in India. Return to your New Delhi hotel in late afternoon and spend the rest of the day and evening as you please.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : The Imperial, New Delhi

PORTOFCALL : New Delhi, India

Day 3 A flight to Kathmandu

If you like, enjoy a yoga class, then let your imagination take flight as you board a plane bound for Kathmandu in Nepal. Touch down for a three-night stay that celebrates the natural beauty and spiritual tapestry of this small mountainous country. Your family-run hotel has a rich tradition of hospitality. This evening, visit a renowned golden-roofed temple with silver doors that sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. Dine at one of the hotel's restaurants tonight.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Dwarika's Hotel

PORTOFCALL : Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 4 Himalayas Flightseeing and a sherpa

Today your Nepal and India trip continues as you set off early this morning for spectacular flightseeing* above the Himalayan landscapes of Mount Everest – an unforgettable experience. Back on the ground in the Kathmandu Valley, explore Patan Durbar Square, where ancient temples and pagodas – both Buddhist and Hindu – are clustered around the old royal palace. Climb aboard for a rickshaw ride, if you like. Lunch is served in a local restaurant. Before dinner tonight at your hotel, a Sherpa who's climbed Mount Everest gives a talk followed by a Question & Answer session.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Dwarika's Hotel

PORTOFCALL : Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 5 Monks and a medieval town

On a lofty hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, adorned with colorful prayer flags, statuary and sacred art, Kopan Monastery draws seekers of spiritual enlightenment from all over the world. Join the Tibetan Buddhist monks as they start their day with prayer and meditation (a ceremony of bells and chanting mantras) before paying a visit to the famous stupa (spiritual monument) of Boudhanath, built during the 5th century, a colossal spherical temple that represents the Mind of Buddha (from a tower his painted eyes keep watch over Kathmandu Valley). At least 29 monasteries surround this immense shrine adorned with prayer flags and prayer wheels, its structure reflecting the design of a mandala. After lunch, you'll arrive at your hotel where the rest of the evening is at your leisure.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Dwarika's Hotel

PORTOFCALL : Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 6 Fly to Chitwan National Park

This morning fly to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the foothills of the Himalayas. The flora and fauna are particularly rich here. One of the few remaining populations of single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros lives in the park, and it's also one of the last refuges of the Bengal tiger. After lunch at your lodge, go on a river safari by boat and enjoy a sundowner.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Meghauli Serai, A Taj Safari

Day 7 Explore Chitwan National Park by Jeep

In an open-topped vehicle, head into Chitwan National Park for a safari and picnic breakfast. Later, watch the elephants take a bath in the river – and interact with them! After lunch enjoy a free afternoon as you wish.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Meghauli Serai, A Taj Safari

Day 8 Bhaktapur and a mountain resort

Pack your bags for a morning flight back to Kathmandu. When you land, explore Bhaktapur, the third largest city in the valley, where cobblestone streets free from traffic make walking in this ancient, picturesque town of traditional art and architecture a pleasure. Its famous centuries-old craftsmanship continues; you will find potters, woodcarvers and weavers here as well as photogenic temples, courtyards and venerable squares, and you'll have an opportunity to view their handiwork. This afternoon, head to your resort in the town of Dhulikhel, where the views of the mountains might just leave you speechless. Dinner will be at your resort this evening.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Dwarika's Resort Dhulikhel

Day 9 Singing Bowls and Cooking

Today, you'll have the opportunity for a bit of rest and relaxation as you may indulge and enjoy the many amenities offered to you at your hotel. Tonight, a singing bowl demonstration and a cooking demonstration precedes dinner at the hotel.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Dwarika's Resort Dhulikhel

PORTOFCALL : Agra, India

Day 10 Fly to Delhi & on to Agra

A morning flight takes you back to Delhi followed by a drive to Agra, home to one of the world's most famous edifices – and monuments to love – the Taj Mahal, built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, as a memorial to his wife. A perfectly symmetrical building, the monument's marble relief work is inlaid with precious stones. Your stay at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra will take you back to a grand era of emperors. Dinner is at your choice of two of the hotel's fine restaurants tonight.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

PORTOFCALL : Agra, India

Day 11 The Taj Mahal & Agra Red Fort

This morning, explore the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a jewel of Muslim architecture renowned as one of the "wonders of the world," on a sunrise visit or after you have breakfast – or both! Next up is a visit to the city of Agra and the 16th-century red sandstone Agra Fort, an enormous complex of fairy tale palaces and mosques once surrounded by a deep moat. This evening's Maharajah dinner will mean special preparations, with ladies being shown how to wear their choice of a traditional sari (with a delicate touch of henna painting), and the gentlemen putting on traditional turbans.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

PORTOFCALL : Agra, India

Day 12 The Temples of Khajuraho

Take a train this morning from Agra to Jhansi followed by a drive to Khajuraho for an overnight stay. This small town is the site of a famous group of temples built between the 9th and 10th centuries by the Chandella Dynasty, praised by UNESCO for striking a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture; visit them today.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : The LaLiT Temple View Khajuraho

PORTOFCALL : Khajuraho, India

Day 13 Bandhavgarh National Park

Drive to Bandhavgarh National Park, a wildlife reserve where leopards, deer, jungle cats, wild dogs, and tigers live – although it is very rare to spot the elusive tiger, a master of camouflage. After lunch embark on a jungle safari in an open-topped Jeep for a chance to catch sight of the wildlife. You'll stay three nights in this remarkable park.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari

Day 14 Jungle Safaris Morning & Afternoon

At daybreak, drive with expert trackers into the heart of the Bandhavgarh Forest, one of India's most scenic areas. Keep your camera handy – the wildlife at home here include tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boar, jackals and a variety of birds. A lecture on the ongoing tiger conservation efforts in India precedes lunch back at the lodge then another jungle safari. Enjoy dinner this evening at the hotel.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari

Day 15 Safari Drives & Village Life

Enjoy a morning's jungle safari drive in Bandhavgarh National Park; in the afternoon, you can choose between further exploration on another jungle excursion, or lending a hand with one of several ongoing community projects alongside village residents. Attend an interactive cooking demonstration prior to dinner at your hotel.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari

Day 16 Flight to Mumbai

Depart Bandhavgarh National Park this morning for a flight to Mumbai on the Arabian Sea. Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai today is India's richest city: hip, multicultural, cosmopolitan, home to Bollywood and a thriving financial center. Arrive in Mumbai mid-afternoon, then take a brief guided orientation tour of landmark city sights en route to your oceanfront luxury hotel. Dinner is at leisure in the hotel tonight.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : The Oberoi, Mumbai

PORTOFCALL : Mumbai, India

Day 17 Colonial Mumbai

Begin today's discovery of Mumbai, India's economic powerhouse, with a visit to the famed Gateway of India, a regal arch built to commemorate the 1911 visit of King George V and Queen Mary during the British Raj; this colossal waterfront monument is sometimes called "the Taj Mahal of Mumbai." Explore the city's Heritage area, including a stop at the Baroque-style train station known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) and Central Railway Headquarters building – Mumbai's only UNESCO World Heritage Site – resplendent with vaulted roofs, arches, Gothic spires, flying buttresses, gables crowned by neoclassical sculptures, stone carvings, and friezes. After an afternoon spent as you please in marvelous Mumbai, join us for a farewell cocktail reception at your hotel this evening.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : The Oberoi, Mumbai

PORTOFCALL : Mumbai, India

Day 18 Journey Home

Tour ends: Mumbai. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from The Oberoi, Mumbai to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Most international flights depart between 2:00 – 3:00 AM; you should allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in.

MEALS : B

PORTOFCALL : Mumbai, India