From $1,609 Was $2,145
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Travel from India to Nepal on an insightful overland trip from Delhi to Kathmandu. From reminders of the Mughal dynasty in northern India to the snow-capped Himalayas of Nepal, this trip will truly inspire. Witness the colour and contrast between the bazaars of Delhi, the jungle in Orchha, and the sacred Ganges. Be awed by the Taj Mahal and see the sunrise over the holy city of Varanasi. Come face-to-face with pilgrims, villagers, holy men, and generations of shopkeepers. For those wanting to travel by land between these two very different neighbours, this is the perfect journey.
Highlights
- Bigger and more beautiful than any photo can capture, the Taj Mahal is a triumph of Mughal architecture that promises to inspire even the most seasoned travellers.
- Learn to whip up some central Indian staples during a cooking demonstration at home with friends in Orchha; the perfect opportunity to experience an authentic slice of Indian family life.
- See pilgrims praying and bathing along the ghats of the sacred Ganges River during an unforgettable sunrise cruise in Varanasi – one of India's holiest cities.
- Stay in a lodge and wake to the calls of the jungle in Chitwan National Park, then embark on a safari in search of rhino, deer, monkeys, and a wide array of birdlife.
- Spend a memorable night at Amaltari Madhyavarti Homestay – staying here provides sustainable incomes and encourages local communities to conserve the wilderness and wildlife around them.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2117
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Overnight sleeper train,Private vehicle,4x4 Safari Vehicle/Jeep,Auto rickshaw,Cycle rickshaw,Shuttle bus,Train,Canoe,Bike
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: HHSK
Starts: Delhi, India
Finishes: Kathmandu, India
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (4), Lunch (4), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights),Lodge/Guesthouse (3 nights),Heritage Property (2 nights),Overnight sleeper train (1 night),Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $1,609 ($107 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to India! This adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 1 pm today. In Delhi, watch one of the world's greatest shows unfold as people, traffic, cows, and kids all work together in a kind of organised chaos around historical sites from different eras, museums and galleries, shops, and endless bazaars. This afternoon, join your group leader on an excursion into the sights and sounds of Old Delhi. Set off on the city's modern metro system, then get a taste of India's renowned old-school public transport with an optional cycle rickshaw ride through chaotic streets. Make a visit to the Jama Masjid, Delhi's oldest mosque, and one of its most impressive buildings, then visit the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) to learn about the Sikh religion. This evening, maybe grab a chai, put your feet up and let it all soak in.
Included Activities:
- Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
- Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
- Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
Optional Activities:
- Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
- Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
- Delhi - Red Fort (600 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After arriving into the Agra today by one of India's express air-conditioned trains (approximately 2.5 hours), you’ll head straight to the most recognisable sight in India. It doesn’t matter who you are, the Taj Mahal will leave you awe-struck with the morning light shimmering off its white marble surface. Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th century Taj is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture, surrounded by trimmed English gardens. The highlights keep coming as you take a motorised rickshaw tour, a truly fun and Intrepid way to see the monuments of Agra. Later, you'll also visit Akbar's Mausoleum – a beautiful sandstone and marble tomb built for the greatest of the Mughal emperors.
Included Activities:
- Agra - Taj Mahal
- Agra - Akbar's Mausoleum
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Agra is also home to one of the finest looking forts in India. This morning you’ll enter the dark red sandstone stronghold of Agra Fort – part fortress, part palace and part prison – and search through throne rooms and tiny but incredibly decorated mosques. Later, travel by air-conditioned train from Agra to Jhansi (approximately 3 hours). Upon arrival in Jhansi, travel through traditional rural Indian landscapes to reach the beautiful town of Orchha on the banks of the Betwa River (approximately 45 minutes). Here you’ll have the opportunity to uncover a very different side of India. Initially a hunting area, Orchha has changed very little over the centuries. Despite its small size, it is filled with many beautiful temples and palaces built here in the 16th century by the ruling Bundelas clan. This evening, witness the Ram Raja Temple puja (prayer) ceremony at the shrine at the heart of the city. Stay in a restored heritage property tonight.
Included Activities:
- Orchha - Leader-led walking tour
- Orchha - Ram Raja Temple ceremony
- Agra - Agra Fort
Accommodation:
- Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll visit the stunning Orchha Palace, built by Bir Sing Deo for his friend Jehangir, the great Mughal ruler. Take note of the grand Iwans (domes) that were built large enough to allow the movement of war elephants. You’ll also make a stop at Taragram - a paper making factory that enables local tribal women to work outside the realm usually afforded to them. The paper is crafted from wood pulp and recycled clothing.
Included Activities:
- Orchha - Orchha Palace
- Orchha - Taragram visit
Accommodation:
- Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll get to soak up more of the unique atmosphere of Orchha, and excitingly you'll get to soak up the local flavours too. Learn about the local cuisine, its ingredients, and how it's prepared, in a cooking demonstration with our local friends. In not too long, you’ll get to taste the unforgettable results. This evening you’ll return to Jhansi and board an overnight train to Prayagraj (Allahabad) (approximately 10 hours) – the starting point for your Ganges boat journey.
Included Activities:
- Orchha - Cooking demonstration
Accommodation:
- Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
Arrive in Allahabad and transfer to the Ganges (approximately 2 hours) by small riverboats for a cruise down the river. You'll experience the sacred River Ganges, the lifeblood of millions of Indian people, with a boat cruise through the heart of rural India. A support crew will be on hand as you cruise down this iconic waterway, passing village communities and viewing river life as it goes on around you. The boats are equipped with life jackets, the deck has mattresses and cushions to relax on, and it’s all covered with a cloth roof for sun protection. Arrive at your campsite and relax riverside, read a book or play some cricket. Watch the sun go down and eat a delicious vegetarian meal prepared by the boatmen.
Included Activities:
- River Ganges - Boat trip & camping
Accommodation:
- Camping (with basic facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Leaving your boats at Chunar, transfer by private vehicle to Varanasi (approximately 2 hours). This is one of holiest cities around; the ultimate destination for Hindu pilgrims who travel from far and wide to experience this spiritual city. Overflowing with temples, shrines and devotees, there’s no doubt it’s one of the most amazing cities. Set off on a walking tour of the oldest part of the city, bustling with tourists and priests, and see different rituals being performed. Wander through the Old City with its maze of narrow alleyways packed full of small shops and stalls, and lumbering cows. This evening, soak up the unique magical atmosphere of a candle flower ceremony as the sun sets.
Included Activities:
- Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony
- Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today starts early with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where you can watch the light gradually illuminate the many ghats and temples along the river as you pass. The rest of the day is free for you to use as you like. There’s an option to take a trip to nearby Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The site is where Buddha preached his message of the path to enlightenment and features a number of stupas and museums to explore. Or perhaps visit Ram Nagar Fort – a crumbling 17th-century fort and palace on the eastern bank of the Ganges, that’s the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras. Alternatively, the day can be spent exploring the laneways and alleys behind the ghats, picking up some examples of the excellent local silk industry, or perfecting yoga in this most chakra-balancing of places.
Included Activities:
- Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
Optional Activities:
- Varanasi - Ram Nagar Fort (250 INR)
- Varanasi - Sarnath (315 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, wave goodbye to India and say namaste to Nepal, as you cross the border at Gorakhpur. Though there’s always something to look at out the windows, it’s a good idea to have some other entertainment on hand for the long day of travelling ahead (approximately 8-10 hours including stops). For groups of less than five, you will travel by car and for bigger groups by bus. On entering Nepal, take a private bus to your hotel in Lumbini (approximately 1 hour). This is no ordinary border town, but the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, and one of his four holy places of pilgrimage. It's said in the Parinibbana Sutta that Buddha identified the sites as those of his birth, enlightenment, first discourse, and death. You’ll visit the beautiful Ashoka Pillars and hop on cycle rickshaws to the Maya Devi Temple, the actual site where Lord Buddha is thought to have been born.
Included Activities:
- Lumbini - Heritage Park
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue your journey by private vehicle through the Terai to the Amaltari Madhyavarti village homestay – your home for the night. A well-known Indigenous group in Nepal, the Tharu community who live here are known for their distinctive culture and lifestyle. When you arrive, have lunch in the community with your group, get to know some of the locals and then enjoy some free time to freshen up. After, you’ll head out on a 4WD drive to the lake to enjoy some afternoon tea. Learn about village life in the community over dinner tonight and relish in a homecooked, traditional meal made by the locals.
Accommodation:
- Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, go on a village walk, guided by a member of the Tharu community around the village. See the architecture and structure of the Indigenous homes around the village by daylight, as well as the local farms, where locals cultivate their crops to sustain their community’s livelihood and economy. Connect with the daily way of life here through cultural immersion and storytelling and learn about their customs and values from the locals themselves. After, say goodbye to your hosts, and head for your lodge in Chitwan National Park via Twenty Thousand Lakes (Bis Hajaar Tal) via private vehicle (2 hours). Nepal’s second-largest natural wetland, this beautiful reserve area is a maze of small lakes that teems with wildlife. Home to numerous crocodiles, this is one of the park’s best areas for birdwatching, with hundreds of species using it as a migratory route stop. If you’re lucky, you might spot an Indian rhino.
Included Activities:
- Chitwan - Village Bike Tour
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, take a walk to the Rapti River from where you’ll be taken on a boat/jeep safari through the national park. Enjoy some brilliantly-coloured-bird watching along the Rapti River and a picnic lunch. Keep your eyes peeled for gharials – this fish-eating crocodile has long been hunted for the supposed aphrodisiac qualities of its snout. Learn more about them when you drop by the crocodile breeding centre. Once back at your accommodation, there’ll be time to relax or to take part in a number of optional activities offered by the park. Tonight, you’ll be treated to a cultural performance by the locals.
Included Activities:
- Chitwan National Park - Park Entry
- Chitwan - Canoe trip
- Chitwan - Canoe safari, Bird Watching walk or Jeep safari
- Chitwan NP - Tharu cultural performance
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll journey by bus from Chitwan to Nepal's capital, Kathmandu (approximately 6 hours). This is a ride that takes in all the sights that define Nepal – iridescent rice terraces, deep gorges, fast-flowing rivers, and looming mountains. Kathmandu is a mixture of ancient architecture and modern development and, with its rich artistic and cultural heritage, it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats, and sacred cows. Perhaps head out into Durbar Square, in front of the old royal palace and home to numerous beautiful temples and browse the stalls of merchant's wares.
Optional Activities:
- Kathmandu - Durbar Square (1000 NPR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll head out to the ancient Swayambhunath Temple, known to tourists as the Monkey Temple and Kathmandu's most important Buddhist shrine. The sleepy, all-seeing Buddha eyes that stare out from the top have become the quintessential symbol of Nepal. You’ll also join the pilgrims at Bodhnath Stupa – the largest stupa in Nepal and the holiest Tibetan Buddhist temple outside Tibet. It's the centre of Tibetan culture in Kathmandu, rich in Buddhist symbolism, and you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. You will also visit Pashupatinath – the most famous Hindu temple in the country – located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here you will see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating and pilgrims bathing. There are also a number of optional activities to take advantage of if you have the time, including our Urban Adventures. Maybe take-off on a flight from Kathmandu airport to see some spectacular mountain scenery. Those who don't have the opportunity to go trekking can get panoramic views of the Himalayas in just an hour.
Included Activities:
- Kathmandu - Swayambhunath Temple
- Kathmandu - Bodhnath Stupa
- Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
Optional Activities:
- Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight (Including transfers) (240 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure through Nepal and India ends today and you're free to leave the accommodation at any time.
Optional Activities:
- Kathmandu - Rickshaw Night Explorer Urban Adventure (49 USD)
- Kathmandu - Panorama Hike Urban Adventure (76 USD)
- Kathmandu - Kathmandu Living Urban Adventure (66 USD)
- Kathmandu - Explore Patan & Bhaktapur Urban Adventure (108 USD)
- Kathmandu - Home Cooking Class Urban Adventure (60 USD)
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
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
Reviews
Nick - Traveled, March 2024
An incredible journey through north India and Nepal by train, boat and bus, giving great insight into its food, culture, religions and nature
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Paul - Traveled, March 2024
An action-packed, thrilling, educational and awe-inspiring two weeks. Perfectly balanced between fast-paced city life and quieter rural experiences. I recommend this trip for anyone looking to have unique travel experiences and learn about real everyday life in Northern India and Nepal.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Aurelie - Traveled, March 2024
These two weeks were amazing. As a French girl solo traveller I didn’t think I could explore India on my own, and it’s been so great to travel with Abhi (our team leader) and the team. Our itinerary covered the main touristy places (old delhi, Taj Mahal and Varanasi), but also places of the beaten track (which happened to be my favourite places). I learnt a lot, always felt safe and taken care of. But also really had fun. The trip was a right combinaison of rest and discoveries (and I like to do a lot). Entering Nepal and discovering more about Buddhism, but also seeing animals in the wild jungle were awesome. Couldn’t recommend enough (with a bit of extra time on your own in Delhi and Kathmandu, beginning and ending of the trip)!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Suzanne - Traveled, March 2024
Enjoyed the Delhi to Kathmandu journey with a great group and a top notch leader.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2024
Craig James - Traveled, March 2024
A very good introduction to the Mughal world, India and Nepal
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/16/2024
Eileen - Traveled, March 2024
This trip is the perfect combination of buzzling cities and relaxing nature. 16 days full filled with so many happy moments of wildlife, impressive places, stunning historical forts and cities, authentic transport and delicious food.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Tayla - Traveled, March 2024
I have two words to describe this itinerary - SIMPLY AMAZING! I was blown away by the amount experiences offered on my journey from Delhi to Kathmandu. If you get Tem as your tour leader, you’re in great hands!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Jeffrey - Traveled, February 2024
Delhi to Kathmandu is an experience of a lifetime. I left India and Nepal with a more open mind and full of gratitude for that wild, beautiful journey I experienced. For anyone looking at this review and these adventures with Intrepid, do it. You will not regret it. And be sure to journal about every experience. Just a tip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/12/2024
Lindsay - Traveled, February 2024
We had a great tour of Northern India and Nepal. The tour covers a lot of ground and picks up a good number of highlights along the way.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/14/2024
Ali - Traveled, February 2024
The only way to experience India and Nepal from a local’s perspective. You cover a lot of ground on this trip and there is no shortage of adventure. We had people on our trip who did it 12 years ago they loved it so much. It feels like you are witnessing the vibrant cultures and people behind the scene. A great introduction to both countries.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/01/2024
Bernie - Traveled, February 2024
Just completed the Delhi to Katmandu trip travelling by overnight train, bus, Etc. the trip was well thought out with ample time to sample the real India & Nepal with a well thought out mix of bustling city life and quiter country village visits. Our guide was not only knowledgeable and informative but made the journey stress free. Definitely an experience worth having.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/01/2024
Livin - Traveled, February 2024
This was an extraordinary trip!! A well defined/selected itinerary. Our guide Javed was very experienced, had very good knowledge of the local history/culture. And also important, we had a great group, friends for live. Would we reselect the trip with what we know now, with the experience we have had: definitely YES.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/21/2024
Cheyanne - Traveled, January 2024
This trip is a must. We packed in so much, in what seemed like a long time but wasn’t, and really got a in-depth view of India and Nepal. The whole trip was really special, I loved everything we did but I have to mention my most favourite thing we did, which was to witness an evening Ram Raja Temple puja (prayer) ceremony. Brought me to tears, it was truly something I will never forget. A huge part of the success of this trip for me was our amazing guide Madan Singh (Maddy). His passion and knowledge for his culture and country is infectious. As a single female traveller, Maddy made me feel safe and properly informed when in a vastly different environment from my own. If you are booking a trip, I hope you are lucky enough to have him. This was my first trip with Intrepid and I can’t wait to book the next one!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/09/2024
Olivia - Traveled, January 2024
Madan our tour leader was so amazing. He was kind and caring and made sure we always felt safe. He made the trip run smoothly and I had a wonderful time! Thankyou madan!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/11/2024
Jaye - Traveled, January 2024
The trip from Delhi to katmandu was incredible we did a lot of sight seeing and learnt about the cultures. I feel very lucky to have had maddy as our leader as he was very knowledgeable, organised and also loved to have a joke!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/11/2024
Kate - Traveled, January 2024
This was absolutely the trip of a lifetime. The itinerary was packed full of interesting and exciting things, every day was different. An exhausting but highly rewarding two weeks, largely thanks to our group leader, Kuldeep, who made the entire experience even more special. I highly recommend this trip to anyone considering it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/30/2024
Paul - Traveled, January 2024
Great way to travel and enjoy the sites with out the headaches of what and where to eat sleep and transport
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/27/2024
Thomas - Traveled, January 2024
The best thing I ever did, in deciding to go travelling solo, was to open my adventure with booking this trip with intrepid. It far exceeded my expectations right from the start, with the brilliant group leader, the bond in the group and the brilliantly executed dynamic of the itinerary, always leaving you excited for the next day. Do it and you won’t regret it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2024
Jackie - Traveled, December 2024
This was truly a trip of a lifetime! I felt like I lived a lifetime in two weeks! My group was a wonderful little crew of folks & we were super lucky to have Bhupesh as our guide as he really helped us to understand what we were seeing & was very helpful with guiding us to places to see & explore in our free time. Highly recommend this trip if you have ever wanted to visit India & Nepal!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2024
Lydia - Traveled, December 2023
I would highly recommend this trip, it shows you the real India and Nepal. I cannot fault our fantastic leader Banhu who made me as a lone female single traveller feel very safe.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/17/2023
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