India Nepal Adventure: 2 Countries in 14 Days

Today, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi, a city with a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC. Begin your tour at Rajghat, the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Next, visit Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan. Experience the vibrant atmosphere with a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's busiest market. Drive past the Presidential House and India Gate in Edwin Lutyen's Delhi. Explore Humayun's Tomb, built in 1562 by his wife, Hamida Banu Begum. Conclude your day with a visit to the Qutab Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, commissioned by Qutbuddin Aibak. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, depart for Agra, the city renowned for the iconic Taj Mahal. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to rest and relax. In the afternoon, visit the exquisite Itmad-ud-Daulah and the majestic Agra Fort. Spend the evening exploring the local markets, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Jaipur. Begin your exploration with Rajasthan's iconic attraction, the "Amber Fort and Palace," a UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed by Raja Man Singh in 1592 using red sandstone and marble. This majestic fort complex is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Maota Lake and the surrounding landscapes. Explore its extensive palace sections and intricate architecture, which blend seamlessly with the natural terrain. Following your visit to Amber Fort, continue your Jaipur sightseeing with a visit to Jal Mahal, the serene Water Palace situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake.

Proceed to City Palace, a magnificent blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture that houses museums showcasing royal artifacts. Next, visit Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, featuring impressive instruments designed for accurate celestial observations. Continue to Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, renowned for its intricate facade adorned with hundreds of windows that allowed royal ladies to observe street festivities. Explore the Albert Hall Museum, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture housing a diverse collection of artifacts. Conclude your day with a visit to Birla Mandir, a modern Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. After an enriching day of sightseeing, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Jaipur.

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll be transferred to Jaipur airport to catch your flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival in Varanasi, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Take some time to rest and unwind at the hotel. In the evening, experience the spiritual Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the River Ganges. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay. 

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, set out for an engaging day of exploration, starting with Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square.

Swayambhunath Stupa: Begin your day with a visit to Swayambhunath Stupa, perched on a hillock 2 kilometers west of Kathmandu. This ancient Buddhist stupa, estimated to be around 2000 years old, offers breathtaking views over the valley. While the oldest written references date back to the 5th century, local legends suggest it could be much older, possibly forming during the valley’s creation. The stupa is popularly known as the "Monkey Temple" due to the large population of monkeys that roam the site.

Thamel: Next, hop on a rickshaw for a charming 20-minute ride to Thamel, Kathmandu’s bustling tourist district. This lively area is filled with narrow streets lined with a diverse range of shops, budget hotels, and eateries. It’s an excellent spot for souvenir shopping, offering everything from clothing and handicrafts to music CDs and paintings. When hunger strikes, you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving delicious local and international dishes.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Continue your tour at Kathmandu Durbar Square, located in the heart of the city. This historic square is surrounded by a fascinating array of temples, courtyards, and ancient royal palaces. Highlights include the Hanuman Dhoka Royal Palace, the magnificent Taleju Temple towering more than 40 meters; Kumari Ghar (the residence of the Living Goddess), Ashok Vinayak Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, and Kal Bhairav, the fearsome deity. Don’t miss the impressive Kasthamandap pagoda, which is said to have been constructed from a single tree and is the namesake of the city.

Patan Durbar Square: Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Patan, situated 5 km southeast of Kathmandu. Known as the "City of Artisans," Patan Durbar Square is renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture. The square features ornate palaces, artistic courtyards, and elegant pagoda temples, showcasing the peak of Newari craftsmanship from the Malla kings' era. Admire the intricate wood and stone carvings, metal statues, and numerous Buddhist and Hindu temples spread across the square. Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Embark on a day of exploration after a delightful breakfast and early morning activities. Begin your journey by visiting three captivating destinations: Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, culminating in an overnight stay at a hotel in Nagarkot.

Bouddhanath Stupa: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Bouddhanath, one of the world's largest stupas. Serving as a focal point for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, the stupa's towering white dome is adorned with vibrant prayer flags. The surrounding monasteries and shops offering religious artifacts create a lively atmosphere. Pilgrims and tourists alike partake in the ritualistic circumambulation, spinning prayer wheels and expressing their devotion.

Pashupatinath Temple: Situated along the sacred Bagmati River, the Pashupatinath Temple complex is a revered Hindu site. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Pashupati, the Lord of Animals, the temple's intricate architecture and spiritual rituals provide profound insights into Hinduism and funeral practices. Please Note that only Hindu pilgrims are permitted entry into the Pashupatinath Temple.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Explore the UNESCO-listed heritage site of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a treasure trove of ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards. Admire the architectural marvels of the Malla period, including the iconic 55-Window Palace and Nyatapola Temple. The square stands as a living testament to Nepal's rich cultural history.

Rise early to witness the magical sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot, an awe-inspiring experience. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

Following breakfast, explore the nearby areas with a short hike or visit the Nagarkot View Tower for panoramic views. After lunch at the hotel, check out and embark on a scenic drive to Chitwan, with a detour to visit the Manakamana Temple en route. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant Tharu Cultural Dance show before settling in for an overnight stay at a hotel in Chitwan.

Manakamana Temple: Nestled in the hills of Gorkha, Nepal, the Manakamana Temple is a sacred haven for Hindus. Perched atop a hill, the temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, renowned for granting the wishes of her devoted followers. Accessible via a cable car ride, the temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the Trishuli River. This revered site holds immense religious significance, attracting pilgrims seeking blessings and spiritual fulfillment.

Tharu Cultural Dance Show: Enjoy an engaging performance that highlights the vibrant traditions of the Tharu community, indigenous to the Terai region of Nepal. The show features traditional music, colorful costumes, and dynamic dances, offering a lively and immersive cultural experience.

Today is filled with thrilling wildlife activities designed to immerse you in the natural wonders of Chitwan. Begin your day with a tranquil canoe ride on the Rapti River, drifting along in a traditional dugout canoe. As you glide over the water, soak in the peaceful surroundings, keeping an eye out for crocodiles and other reptiles basking on the riverbanks. Enjoy the sight of ibises and various waterfowl gracefully navigating the river’s edge. This serene experience offers the perfect opportunity to relax and connect with nature.

Following your river adventure, embark on an invigorating walk through Chitwan’s lush subtropical jungle. Accompanied by knowledgeable naturalists, you’ll explore prime wildlife viewing areas where you might encounter deer, rhinos, sloth bears, and more. Your guides will share fascinating insights into the local flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of this vibrant ecosystem.

Return to the resort for a delicious lunch, then set off for an exciting half-day jeep safari within the National Park, spending 4 to 5 hours exploring the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Afterward, visit the Crocodile Breeding Center to learn about the conservation efforts involved in collecting crocodile eggs, hatching them, and releasing the young crocs back into their natural habitat. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening back at the resort, where you’ll enjoy a restful overnight stay.