India and Nepal Expedition 20 Day Tour

Welcome to India, a country that requires little introduction. This vast subcontinent is a tapestry of unrivaled cultures, offering phenomenal cuisine, warm hospitality, remarkable diversity, and immersive architecture shaped by religion, pride, patriotism, and history.

Arrive throughout the day, get an airport transfer and meet your group leader at your hotel in the heart of New Delhi. Tonight, you’ll venture out as a group for your welcome dinner and your first chance to sample that famous Indian cuisine.

After breakfast, you'll head out with your local guide through the streets of Delhi and get your first real introduction to Indian life. The first stop is a beautiful Sikh Temple, where your local legend will educate you on this important religion and culture. Next, step into the huge community kitchen, where Sikhs provide free meals to residents of the city, every day. Watch how thousands of chapatis are made and stir the giant curry pots yourself.

After lunch, you'll visit the illustrious Lotus Temple and wander through the gardens. You'll head inside the Temple for a moment of silence and reflect on your reasons for visiting this great country.

In the evening, you will be transferred to Old Delhi, a chaotic city lost in time. Your guide will educate the group on the area and fill your bellies with Indian sweets and snacks. You will then be taken by rickshaws (similar to Tuk-Tuks) through Chandni Chowk to Mutton Street. Chandni Chowk, known as the "Moonlit Market," is a bustling hub of vibrant bazaars, eclectic stalls, and historic shrines, embodying the essence of Old Delhi's dynamic lifestyle. During the tour, you'll enjoy some of the most delicious skewers and Islamic food available.

After breakfast, you'll transfer to Agra by train and check into your hotel. In the afternoon you will take Tuk Tuks to a quiet garden south of the Taj Mahal to view this magnificent structure away from the crowds at sunset. This serene setting offers a much quieter and unique way to appreciate this spectacular building.

Tomorrow, you'll head inside, but today is all about enjoying the beauty that this monument has to offer. You'll grab dinner in the evening and get an early night as we are up for sunrise tomorrow.

It's an early start today as you wake up at the crack of dawn to head to the Taj Mahal to beat the crowds and experience it in almost perfect silence. Your new local guide will show you the best spots to see the building, where Princess Diana took that famous shot and of course the fascinating story of romance behind one of the world’s most recognisable buildings. As you head inside, learn all the secrets that most people don’t know about what makes the Taj Mahal so special. Afterwards, you'll head back to the hotel for breakfast and then take a bus to Jaipur.

Jaipur, also known as the pink city, is truly a feast for the eyes. The stunning palaces, majestic forts, and lush royal gardens showcase the grandeur of this 18th-century city. The pastel pink heritage buildings are set against vibrant bazaars. The local food is equally colorful with unique flavors. The locals' colorful outfits, unique jewelry, and love for folk songs and dances make this Pink City a treasure of Rajasthani culture.

This evening, watch a Bollywood movie the way the director intended it to be watched, in one of the grandest theatres in the world.

After breakfast in the hotel, your guide will take you on an orientation walk of the old town. You'll visit the local market, understand the origins of the “Pink City,” meet some locals and market traders and learn all about the spices that are synonymous with Indian cooking. You'll also view the excellent Palace of the Winds - Jaipur's signature palace made of red and pink sandstone.

Next, jump in some Tuk Tuks to visit Galta-Ji, also known as the Monkey Temple. This temple, built into the hills, is home to hundreds of grey long-tailed Asian monkeys. You will have the rest of the day free to explore the other sites of Jaipur.

After breakfast in the morning, you'll take a private transfer to Pushkar, known as one of the holiest towns in India. Pushkar is a backpacker’s paradise with amazing food, beautiful markets, rolling landscapes, hiking and unrivalled sunsets. Tonight you will sleep in the desert on a gorgeous glamping site, with huge tents fitted with comfortable beds. In the afternoon, a local Brahmin will induct you to Pushkar properly with a blessing on the holy lake and you’ll grab a drink at a lakeside cafe before heading back to camp to sleep under the stars.

Today you'll return to Ajmer before taking the train to Udaipur, the “White City” – also known as the city of lakes. It is also the location for filming the James Bond film, Octopussy! The lakes and architecture provide a perfect balance between the hectic and the tranquil and no better way to experience this is with a walk through the markets and old town and finishing with a private sunset cruise on the lake. Afterwards, you’ll head to one of our favourite rooftop restaurants for dinner with a view.

It will be an early start today as you head out of town for a bike ride village tour. Your guide, who is from the local village, will introduce you to the ways the locals live. They will teach you about their culture and heritage as well as show you the local temples important to village life. After the bike tour, you will visit a local school during your time in this area. You'll have some free time in the afternoon before heading back to camp at sunset to work with local villagers learning how to cook traditional Indian cuisine.

Today you will take a bus to the home of the blue city, Jodhpur. On arrival in the evening, we’ll transfer to our traditional Haveli accommodation. Your Haveli is situated in the middle of the blue city where the walls are painted blue throughout this labyrinth of buildings in the shadow of the ever imposing Mehrangarh Fort. After checking in, you will meet your group on the rooftop for dinner to catch your first glimpse of one of our favourite cities in Rajasthan.

In the late afternoon, you will stroll through the mesmerising blue city and pause at the Jodhpur stepwell, an impressive marvel of ancient stonework. As you wander around the clock tower market, you can sample the famous Saffron Lassi and some delicious samosas. Finally, you will head back to your accommodation to wrap up the day.

You will have the morning free to relax after yesterday's travel. During your free time, you can choose to explore the blue city on foot, take a rooftop yoga class, or, for the more adventurous, zipline over the ramparts of the Jodhpur fort. In the early afternoon, your group will meet and walk to the Mehrangarh fort with your local guide. Your guide will show you around the immaculately kept fort, and with the assistance of an audio guide, you’ll leave with a thorough understanding of Indian royal life.

This morning you will take an early train to Bikaner. Bikaner is a feast for the eyes – think vibrant colors, ancient landscapes, and traditions that will make you want to stay forever.
This place has quite the backstory. Founded in the 15th century smack in the middle of the Thar Desert, Bikaner became a lifeline for camel caravans trudging along the legendary Silk Road. And guess what? Camels are still the stars of the show there!

Once you arrive in Bikaner, you'll be transferred to your accommodation and grab some breakfast before you head out for the day to explore Camel Country.
Get ready for an incredible and bumpy ride you’ll never forget, a Jeep safari in the desert! You will cruise through local villages, marvel at towering sand dunes, and maybe spot some desert wildlife along the way. Afterwards, you'll visit the Camel Research Centre. Bikaner is home to some of the world’s best riding camels and one of the world’s largest camel research and breeding farms. You'll finish the day with a delicious dinner before getting some well-deserved rest.

After a free morning, you'll check out and head into the centre of Bikaner for an old city walking tour. The tour offers a journey through the historic heart of the city. Wander through narrow, winding alleys that weave their way through Bikaner's old quarter, revealing centuries-old architecture, bustling markets, and hidden gems at every turn. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local bazaars, where you can browse colorful stalls selling everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and traditional sweets. Visit artisan workshops where skilled craftsmen practice age-old crafts such as pottery, carpet weaving, and jewelry making, providing insights into Bikaner's rich artistic traditions.

After dinner tonight you will be taking an overnight train to Delhi.

On your arrival in Delhi, you will be transferred from the train station to your final hotel.

You will have the afternoon free to do as you please before meeting with your group to enjoy your final dinner in India.

This morning you will be transferred to Delhi Airport for your included flight to Kathmandu. Say goodbye India and hello Nepal!

Upon arrival in Nepal, you will be greeted at the airport and begin the final part of your Expedition tour in Kathmandu, the vibrant and colorful capital teeming with life. After a day of travel you will be ready for another warm welcome dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant in Thamel Bazaar, where you'll indulge in local flavors amid the buzz of this cultural hotspot.

Explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu on your included city tour, where ancient traditions meet modern life. You'll explore the iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square, marveling at its architecture and historic palaces. Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, for serene spiritual vibes and panoramic city views. Don't miss Patan Durbar Square, famous for its exquisite temples and artisan shops.

You'll end your day with a unique cooking demonstration and dinner at Seven Women, a social enterprise devoted to empowering marginalised women through education and employment opportunities. Savor the flavors of authentic Nepalese cuisine while supporting a meaningful cause.

Today, after breakfast, you'll travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chitwan National Park, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife including rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and over 500 species of birds. Widely recognised as one of the best national parks in Asia, Chitwan offers a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Settle into your comfortable accommodation, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. In the evening, relax and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of this extraordinary place.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Chitwan with a series of captivating jungle activities. After breakfast, you'll start your morning with a one-hour jungle walk, where you can observe the rich flora and fauna up close. Next up is a 45-minute canoe ride along the tranquil river, offering a unique perspective of the park's diverse ecosystem. In the afternoon, gear up for a 4-hour jeep safari, providing plenty of opportunities to spot the park's incredible wildlife, including rhinos, tigers, and a variety of exotic birds. Chitwan is one of the few places in the world where you might witness rhinos roaming the streets of the town, showcasing the unique coexistence of humans and wildlife in this region.

Today you will journey to Pokhara, an enchanting lakeside city, also known as the Gateway to the Himalayas. Nestled in the foothills of the Annapurna range, Pokhara offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. After settling into your new accommodation you'll be taken on an evening orientation walk around the tranquil waters of Phewa Lake, visit the Tal Barahi Temple, explore charming fisherman villages, and wander through vibrant local bazaars filled with colorful handicrafts and delicious street food. Take a moment to enjoy the stunning reflection of the surrounding mountains on the lake's surface as you immerse yourself in the local culture.

Set out on a scenic trek to Australian Camp via Dhampus village. This 5-6 hour hike takes you through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountain Range. As you traverse the trails, you'll encounter vibrant local wildlife and experience the rich culture of the indigenous communities.

The trek provides numerous opportunities for photo moments, with stunning vistas at every turn. Whether you're an avid hiker or a nature enthusiast, this journey will captivate you with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It's an experience that will transform your perspective on the world, leaving you with memories you'll cherish forever.

Today you will bid farewell to the serene beauty of Pokhara and journey back to Kathmandu. Take a moment to reflect on the vibrant culture, warm-hearted locals, and breathtaking landscapes that have made your Nepali adventure extraordinary. We do not doubt that you will ever forget this incredible week exploring Nepal with One Life.