1. Home
  2. Asia
  3. Nepal
  4. India & Nepal Adventure
Map of India & Nepal Adventure including India and Nepal

Enjoy an in-depth exploration through the delights of India and Nepal

Combine the best of India and Nepal in one superbly comfortable trip. Experience the colour and chaos of Delhi's bazaars, visit erotic temple carvings in Khajuraho and witness intimate displays of faith on the burning ghats of Varanasi. Roam the grounds of the iconic Taj Mahal, head out on a jungle safari and listen for the whispering prayer flags of Kathmandu. Throw in temple towns and village visits, lakeside retreats and mountain hikes, spiritual moments and local interactions for an unforgettable tour bursting with incredible adventures.

Up to 30% off* 2023 Trips!

Treat yourself with up to 30% off* our trips for a limited time only!

Terms & Conditions
Start
Delhi, India
Finish
Kathmandu, Nepal
Destinations
India, Nepal
Style
Comfort
Theme
Explorer
Code
HHKWC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 18
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

  • Explore the Taj Mahal; one of the most recognisable buildings in the world; and learn of its lesser-known poetic history from a local expert.

  • Witness world-class mountain scenery from a heavenly viewpoint, with a breathtaking, included Everest scenic flight.

  • Take a jeep safari with a local guide in Chitwan National Park, a beauty brimming with exotic birdlife and game - you may be lucky enough to spot rhinos or elusive leopards and tigers.

  • Discover the secret flavours and spices of traditional specialities during a cooking class in a local home in Jaipur, then; arguably the best part; sit down to feast on your creations.

  • Soak up the unique atmosphere of a candle flower ceremony at dusk on the Ganges River in Varanasi, then wake up early for a sunrise boat ride, where you can watch the light gradually illuminate the many ghats and temples along the river as you pass.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Don’t underestimate the weather at any time of year in India. In the summer months, heat can be extreme. In winter months, some travellers have been surprised at the cool of the evenings. A hat, sunscreen, and clothing that can be layered will serve you well year-round.

  • There are some early starts on this trip, allowing you to see more of the destinations in the captivating morning light.

  • Between December and February, flights and trains in northern India can be delayed due to fog.

  • This trip does not go to high altitude, so if this was keeping you back from visiting Nepal in the past, this trip is for you.

  • While on a map we aren't travelling particularly far, the reality of road travel in Nepal is that things always take longer than you expect. Some roads will be bumpy, dusty, or even unexpectedly blocked requiring reroutes and plenty of patience. We fly the farthest distances to make the most of our time together.

  • Hotels in some destinations may vary in standard and facilities, and on occasion, hot water may be limited. There will be times when the location of our accommodation will mean it is practical to eat at the hotel restaurant rather than heading out for optional meals.

  • While there will be opportunities to spot many kinds of wildlife, sightings cannot be guaranteed.

  • You will see tour operators offering elephant riding activities and many tourists taking part in them. Intrepid Travel has a strong elephant welfare policy and as such we discourage travellers from riding elephants anywhere around the world. Please refer to the ‘Responsible Travel’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

India delhi jama masjid birds
nepal pokhara lake boats landscape
India Agra taj mahal
Nepal Kathmandu monkey
India Jaipur
nepal bandipur local sundry shop
India Delhi Street Food
nepal bandipur traveller town view
India Agra fort group talk
nepal bandipur travellers crossing suspension bridge
India varanasi local washing ghat
Nepal Chitwan croc

Itinerary
Expand All Collapse All

Welcome to India. Arrive in Delhi and take your complimentary airport transfer to the hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, make sure to get out and explore this exciting capital. Filled with historical sites from different eras, museums and galleries, shops, and endless bazaars, there’s much to see and do.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please have these on hand.

The arrival transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through Intrepid. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.

After breakfast, your tour leader will take you to the city’s historic heart with a guided walking tour of Old Delhi. Set off on the city's modern metro system, then get a taste of India's famed public transport with an optional cycle rickshaw ride through chaotic streets, such as the famous Chandni Chowk. 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. After a jam-packed morning of sightseeing adventures, sit down to a traditional (and delicious) Thali lunch. The rest of the day is free for further exploration, perhaps visit the World Heritage-listed Mughal masterpiece of Humayun's Tomb, the first garden-tomb in India, built in 1570. Wonder at the tall brick minaret of Qutub Minar, which was started all the way back in the 12th-century, or explore the mighty Red Fort of Delhi. Part palace and part fort, the Red Fort played an integral part in the history of the city with former residents ranging from royal families to British soldiers.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
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 - INR600
  • Delhi - Qutub Minar - INR600
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Farewell Delhi’s hypnotising chaos this morning and set off for Agra, home to one of the world’s most recognisable monuments. Get a taste of India’s rail system with an express train journey to Agra (approx 2 hours). The best way to uncover Agra is by cycle rickshaw, so after arriving you’ll be taken on a rickshaw tour of the city. You’ll visit the spectacular Taj Mahal. 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. Agra is also home to one of the finest looking forts in India. 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. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please. A visit to Sheroes Cafe, which employs women who have been affected by acid attacks, is highly recommended.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Agra - Taj Mahal
  • Agra - Agra Fort
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s train ride is approximately 2 hours.

Today we head to Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, by private vehicle. Stop enroute to Jaipur at Chand Baori stepwell – built over 1000 years ago, this is one of the largest stepwells in India. The architectural wonder was once a gathering place for locals and royals alike. The series of narrow steps creates a beautiful pattern that leads to a body of water below. After some time here, we’ll continue to the Pink City of Jaipur and discover more of its trademark pink hues on a walking tour with your group leader. Navigate crowded streets packed with cars, camel carts, rickshaws, trucks, and bicycles, past traditionally dressed Rajput men wearing colourful turbans and sporting magnificent moustaches, while observing the city’s intricate architecture. Visit a bazaar to browse handcrafted textiles, folk art, and the local specialty of semi-precious stones. Make a photo stop at India's most photographed building after the Taj Mahal, the Hawa Mahal, or 'Palace of the Winds'. You have the option of also visiting Jantar Mantar, an observatory filled with instruments to track the stars, built by the founder of Jaipur, Maharaja Jai Singh. This evening, continue to indulge in the wonders of Indian culture by watching a Bollywood blockbuster – an elaborate combination of action romance, drama, and music – at the spectacular Raj Mandir Cinema.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema
  • Abhaneri - Chand Baori stepwell
  • Jaipur - Orientation walk with a local guide
Optional Activities
  • Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory - INR200
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s total travel time is approximately 6 hours.

This morning, an optional early morning hot air balloon experience won’t disappoint – wake early for a breathtaking overhead view of the Pink City bathed in early morning light. Later, climb the twisting roads of the Aravalli Hills and round the final bend to see the massive Amber Fort loom into view. You’ll enjoy a walking tour to explore the Amber Fort with a local guide today. The legacy of a fallen empire, the opulent palace is a superb example of Rajput architecture and is packed with elaborate rooms of lavish murals, frescoed arches, and delicate jali work. Don’t miss the sparkling Mirror Palace, covered floor-to-ceiling in thousands of reflective tiles, the hall becomes a dazzling fantasy with the light of a single match. The afternoon is free to explore more of Jaipur that you might have missed yesterday. Then, this evening meet the rest of your group and leader for a special cooking class in a local home for dinner. You’ll learn the secrets, flavours and spices of traditional specialities from our welcoming hosts and then get to feast on your creations.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Jaipur - Amber Fort
  • Jaipur - Cooking class in a local home
Optional Activities
  • Jaipur - Balloon Safari - USD280
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
For additional information about today’s optional hot air balloon excursion, please see the 'Important Notes' section of the Essential Trip Information.

Arrive in the holy centre of Varanasi after a short flight from Jaipur. Varanasi is awash with shrines and temples, and the ultimate destination for Hindu pilgrims who travel from far and wide to experience this spiritual city. Take a walking tour of the old city, through narrow laneways packed with stalls and shops, past the dhobi wallahs, and the endless temples that echo with bells and the pungent aroma of incense. This evening soak up the unique atmosphere of a candle flower ceremony at dusk. A beautiful ritual to witness, you’ll watch on as locals give offerings of small candles cradled by leaves and flowers to the Goddess Ganga - then float the glowing hand-made pieces down the river as the sun sets in the background.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour
  • Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s flight time is approximately 2 hours. Today’s total travel time is approximately 8 hours.

Currently, there are no direct flights between Jaipur and Varanasi, so you will fly through Delhi. This flight will require an early morning start time, and you will arrive in Varanasi in the afternoon.

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. There is 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. Alternatively, the day can be spent exploring the laneways and alleys behind the ghats, or picking up some examples of the excellent local silk industry.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
Optional Activities
  • Varanasi - Sarnath - INR250
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Use a free morning to delve further into the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi, wander through the ghats or perhaps haggle with vendors in colourful bazaars. Then, return to Delhi by plane for a last chance to explore India's capital. Perhaps head to the legendary Connaught Place for some last-minute shopping. This evening, why not share a meal with your group to reminisce about your travels.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s flight time is approximately 1.5 hours. Today’s total travel time is approximately 4 hours.

Today, take an included transfer to Delhi Airport for a flight bound for Kathmandu. This flight is unaccompanied. On arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be met at the airport by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Join a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your Nepalese leader and fellow travellers. The evening is free to explore the streets of Kathmandu, whose mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and rich artistic and cultural heritage means 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. You may like to join your leader and group for an optional dinner at one of Kathmandu’s fine Nepali restaurants.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
As this is a combination trip, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today. There will be a welcome meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and to meet new travellers joining you. It’s important that you attend the meeting as your new leader will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Weather permitting, take a Mount Everest scenic flight this morning. This amazing experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park, through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, getting up close to Mount Everest. Later in the morning, you will explore Kathmandu, visiting Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where 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, pilgrims bathing, and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The rest of your afternoon in Kathmandu is free for further sightseeing and exploration. Perhaps head to Durbar Square, in front of the old royal palace and home to numerous beautiful temples, and browse the stalls of merchant's wares.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight
  • Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
  • Kathmandu - Bodhnath Stupa
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today you will have an early departure from the hotel for your transfer to the domestic terminal at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan Airport. From here you will fly to Pokhara. There are often spectacular views of the main Himalayan chain to the north on this flight. On arrival, you will take a boat ride across the lake (Phewa Tal), which is the second largest in Nepal. Visit the Peace Pagoda, where spectacular views of the mountains await. You can see the Annapurnas from here, and the famous fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, and back across to Pokhara. You will also visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum to learn some amazing tales of past climbing expeditions – some ending in triumph, some ending in tragedy.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip
  • Pokhara - Peace Pagoda
  • Pokhara - International Mountain Museum
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s flight time is approximately 30mins.

Enjoy a free day for further exploration in the peaceful surroundings of Pokhara. With an elaborate Hindu temple, Buddhist monastery and bazaar to visit, you'll find plenty to keep you occupied. Or you may like to relax at a restaurant by the lake - in clear weather the views at sunrise and sunset are fantastic.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today you'll travel to Bandipur by private vehicle. This traditional Nepalese town is a natural treasure and one of the country's true hidden gems. Bandipur was once an important stop for traders travelling to Tibet and the single main street of the town is still lined with buildings that once housed a wide variety of merchants. Many of the buildings have been converted now, but their architecture remains. The town is quieter than during its trading days and certainly quieter than current day Kathmandu, so enjoy a peaceful stay in this charming, rural location.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Bandipur - Leader-led orientation walk
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Enjoy a day of free time to further explore Bandipur. The surrounding hills are ideal for hiking along trails that will take you through tribal villages, verdant forests, 'power places', and hilltop shrines that once doubled as fortresses. Bandipur is saddled on a high ridge above Dumre, making for an exceptional view of the Himalayan panorama. You may prefer to visit the town’s temples or relax with a coffee and a spectacular view.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After breakfast, drive to Chitwan National Park. After arriving and settling in, you will be introduced to the camp staff and resident naturalists who will discuss the activities program. There is some flexibility, and activities may vary depending on the time of year and on wildlife movements. A late-afternoon safari will take you through forests and across grasslands to observe the varied and exciting wildlife in the park. In the early evening, the local Tharu dance troupe may perform a cultural program. You will then enjoy dinner and afterward, you will be free to relax in the bar and discuss the day’s sightings or listen to the stirrings of the jungle at night.
Accommodation
  • Lodge (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chitwan - Bird watching walk
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Today’s travel time is approximately 4 hours.

There’s so much to do in Chitwan, we thought we’d give you the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Bird watching can be excluded for those who are not interested.

Embark on an early-morning excursion. This could include either another safari to different parts of the park (in search of the great Indian rhino, deer, and exotic birdlife) or joining one of the other activities available in the park. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but these magnificent animals do inhabit the park. After breakfast, you will leave the lodge and go on a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This is an exciting trip with chances to view marsh mugger crocodiles and various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. A program will be organised for the rest of the day and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.
Accommodation
  • Lodge (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chitwan - Bird watching walk
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

If you are an avid wildlife lover, there is an optional early-morning birdwatching safari available today – a worthwhile addition to your trip. After breakfast fly to Kathmandu and drive to Bhaktapur - once the capital of Nepal and the Great Malla Kingdom during the 15th century. Its rich heritage, inspiring temples, and artisanal history played a big part in Bhaktapur being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an evening of exploration on your own, soak up the lovely atmosphere in one of the local cafes, or simply relax in your hotel.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s flight time is approximately 30mins and the driving time is approximately 1 hour.

Spend the day exploring Bhaktapur’s famous temples, starting at Durbar Square, which is reputed to be the most beautiful piece of art in Nepal. Durbar Square is home to the majestic Lion Gate and Golden Gate. You will also visit the Pashupati Temple, a replica of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. This will be an enlightening morning of discovery and enrichment, as you delve into all Bhaktapur has to offer. In the afternoon, drive to Kathmandu (approximately 2 hours). The evening is yours to spend as you wish - your group may like to head out for an optional dinner to celebrate the wonderful time you've spent together in Nepal.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s travel time is approximately 1 hour.

Your trip officially comes to an end after breakfast today. Your tour leader will be on hand to advise and assist with your onward travel arrangements.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

18 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Auto rickshaw, Boat, Cycle rickshaw, Metro, Plane, Private vehicle, Bus

Accommodation

Hotel (13 nights), Guesthouse (3 nights), Lodge (2 nights)

Included activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
  • Agra - Taj Mahal
  • Agra - Agra Fort
  • Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema
  • Abhaneri - Chand Baori stepwell
  • Jaipur - Orientation walk with a local guide
  • Jaipur - Amber Fort
  • Jaipur - Cooking class in a local home
  • Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour
  • Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony
  • Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
  • Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight
  • Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
  • Kathmandu - Bodhnath Stupa
  • Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip
  • Pokhara - Peace Pagoda
  • Pokhara - International Mountain Museum
  • Bandipur - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Chitwan - Bird watching walk
  • Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our India & Nepal Adventure trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

Prices may go up, so secure your trip today!
Jump to a departure month

Important notes

1. A single supplement is available if you'd prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 13,14,17 (Guesthouse) and Days 15,16 (Lodge) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
2. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
3. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases, you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
4. This trip includes domestic and international flights as indicated on the trip map. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

Reviews

Go to dates