Tour description
We’ll meet you in Jaipur, pink capital of Rajasthan state and where we’ll enjoy the wonderful medieval atmosphere, typical of this area, and the sight of monkeys, prayer flags, camels and sacred cows. Women dressed in brightly coloured saris adorn magnificent palaces and fortresses in and around the city.
Magnificent Taj Mahal
On day 4 we’ll cross the deserted emperor’s town of Fatehpur Sikri to go to Agra and you can admire the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world and certainly the greatest monument to true love that was ever built. After a day exploring Agra’s many treasures, we’ll board the night-train to Varanasi and spend two nights here in the heart of India and the holiest city of this immense country. The sight of thousands of people praying and bathing in the Ganges is beyond description and so you’ll have to see this with your own eyes! There’s also an optional trip in a rowing boat along the sacred river.
Buddha’s birthplace
On day 8 you cross the border at Bhairawa and arrive at Lumbini, said to be Buddha’s birthplace, in Nepal where we’ll be able to enjoy its breathtaking scenery and incredibly friendly inhabitants. Then we’ll head for the former hippie haunt of Pokhara, driving along a winding road surrounded by high mountains. The town is on the shore of a beautiful mountain lake where, on a clear day, you can see the snow-capped mountains of the Annapurna massif. Here you’ll be able to rent a rowing boat, take a hike, or simply enjoy the spectacular views whilst relaxing in one of the gardens.
The valley of Kathmandu
Day 11 takes us though an impressive mountain pass to the valley of Kathmandu. You won’t believe your eyes when you see the many temples and stupas (Buddhist shrines)! Once you have experienced the atmosphere of this city you’ll definitely want to come back a second time. Nagarkot is located at the border of the valley of Kathmandu and this is where you can enjoy the best views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks at dawn.
Nagarkot to Bhaktapur
On day 15 we’ll trek from Nagarkot to Bhaktapur, taking a steepish path that offers splendid views. Anyone who feels wimpy can take a taxi! But it’s worth the trip because Bhaktapur is the most picturesque city of kings, and still retains a medieval aura.
In search of Indian rhinos
The final highlight of the Nepalese part of this trip is the Chitwan National Park, located at the foot of the Himalayas. It’s the perfect place to take a break. We recommend that you go in search of Indian rhinos by elephant or on foot. If you’re lucky you may spot a leopard or tiger in this typically Asiatic jungle. (It may not be so lucky if you’re on foot!)
Vibrant New Delhi
On day 18 we’ll travel to New Delhi by bus and night-train. You will have 3 days to enjoy the vibrant capital of India, with its colourful markets, stately government buildings and tropical parks. There are more than enough places of interest to keep you busy until we day our fond farewells on day 21.