Days
23
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Capture the essence of Nepal and northern India on a journey to the Golden Triangle and beyond
Experience India’s Golden Triangle and Nepal’s magnificent mountain peaks on this adventure from New Delhi to Kathmandu. Discover the 'Pink City' of Jaipur, witness the Mughal splendours of Delhi and Agra, safari through Ranthambhore National Park in search of tigers, and soak up the ambience of holy Varanasi. Continue to Kathmandu, where a scenic Everest flight provides an unforgettable introduction to Nepal. Cruise across Fewa Lake, explore the rural beauty around Tansen, find spirituality in Lumbini, and search for big game in Chitwan National Park. Awash with highlights, from lavish palaces and vibrant bazaars to small villages nestled in the foothills of snow-capped peaks, this is an eclectic adventure not to be missed.
- Code
- PINHC
- Physical rating
- Ages
- Min 18
- Group size
- Min 1, Max 12
Why you'll love this trip
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Discover the man-made beauty that lies across the north of India, from Jaipur’s ‘Palace of the Winds’ and Royal City Palace to Agra’s Red Fort and famous Taj Mahal
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A trip to India wouldn’t be complete without a Bollywood film. Sit back and enjoy one in one of Jaipur’s magnificent cinemas
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Embark on a safari through Ranthambore National Park in search of antelope, sloth bears, leopards and tigers
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Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Rajput royalty during your India feature stay in rural Rajasthan at Castle Kanota
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Begin a morning in Varanasi with a sunrise cruise down the Ganges – the perfect way to experience the spiritual magic of the ultimate Hindu pilgrimage destination
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As well as an unforgettable scenic Everest flight, experience Nepal's stunning natural beauty from many angles – hiking, driving or canoeing
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Uncover the rural beauty around Nepal’s lesser known villages and immerse yourself in the wilderness of Chitwan National Park
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Surround yourself with lush forest and serene luxury during your two night Nepal feature stay at Barahi Jungle Lodge
Is this trip right for you?
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In India, it can get foggy between December and February, which can put a new spin on already spectacular scenery. However, it may cause trains to be delayed.
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In the summer months Rajasthan can get very hot. Be sure to drink lots of water, pack light cotton clothing and use adequate skin protection.
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The Everest scenic flight is subject to weather conditions – cross your fingers for clear skies that give way to unforgettable views.
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The drive from Pokhara to Tansen is on very windy roads, so be prepared for a lot of corners and don't forget to buckle up.
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The hotel in Tansen is in an unbeatable location with breathtaking panoramic views, though not quite of the same standard as the other accommodation on this trip.
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Exploring Chitwan National Park's beautiful trails on foot requires a reasonable level fitness.
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An overnight train may replace the flight from Khajuraho due to continued airport construction.
Gallery
Itinerary
Welcome to India! On arrival at Delhi Airport, you will be met by a Peregrine representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening, there will be an important welcome meeting in the hotel at around 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow group of travellers. Until then, you can use any free time before the meeting to explore this excitingly chaotic capital city. Filled with historical sites from different eras, museums, galleries and endless bazaars, there’s plenty to see in Delhi.
Accommodation
- Jaypee Siddharth Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.Special Information
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.It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Get a taste of Indian rail travel with an express train into Rajasthan and onto the region’s capital of Jaipur (approximately 5 hours). On arrival, take a walking tour through the crowded streets packed with cars, camel carts, rickshaws, trucks and bicycles, past traditionally dressed Rajput men wearing colourful turbans and sporting magnificent moustaches. Walk the city's crowded bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles, folk art, and the local speciality of semi-precious stones. Afterwards, stop at one of India's most photographed buildings – the Hawa Mahal or 'Palace of the Winds'. There’s also the option to visit one of India’s finest palaces – Jaipur's Royal City Palace – or the astronomical instrument sculptures of the Observatory. This evening, continue to indulge in the wonders of Indian culture by watching a Bollywood blockbuster at Raj Mandir cinema.
Accommodation
- Lemon Tree Premier or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
- Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema
Optional Activities
- Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory - INR200
- Jaipur - City Palace - INR700
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Visit the opulent Amber Fort – the jewel of Jaipur. It is quite a sight, with its soft shades of red, sandstone and white marble with elaborate Hindu-style flourishes. Explore the legacy of a fallen empire in its ornate rooms, lavish murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. After spending some time here, the remainder of the day is free for you to explore parts of Jaipur that you may have missed yesterday, or simply to relax at your accommodation.
Accommodation
- Lemon Tree Premier or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Jaipur - Amber Fort
Optional Activities
- Jaipur - Balloon Safari - USD260
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Hot air balloon flights are operated by Sky Waltz in Jaipur. Flights operate from September 1st to April 31st and last approximately 60 mins. Return transfers, tea and coffee plus light refreshments and a certificate of flight are included in the cost. You can register your interest and pay your tour leader at your joining meeting on Day 1 of your trip. Payment must be made by cash in either INR/AUD/USD/GBP only and is USD 260pp (subject to change). Flights are subject to availability and weather conditions. Tickets are fully refundable in the case of poor weather.
Drifting high over the Pink City while it’s bathed in the early morning sunlight is a highlight for many visitors to Jaipur, so consider booking yourself into a hot air balloon experience this morning. This can be done between September and April – for additional information see the 'Important Notes' section of the Essential Trip Information. During the day you’ll also drive to Kanota (approximately 1 hour). Your accommodation here is the elegant Castle Kanota – a Feature Stay of this itinerary. Built in 1972 and set on eight acres of manicured gardens, this heritage hotel is one of Rajasthan's finest.
Accommodation
- Castle Kanota 'feature stay' or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Drive from Castle Kanota to Ranthambhore National Park (approximately 5 hours). In the evening, embark on a safari through the park. Ranthambore National Park is one of the original Project Tiger reserves – a place where nature has reclaimed ancient fortresses and temples and is teeming with wildlife. In 4WD safari vehicles, take game drives to search for animals, including the majestic tiger which stalks through the jungle. You may also have the chance to explore the 1000-year-old Ranthambore Fort, where two pavilions that have survived the ravages of war and time – Badal Mahal and Hammirs Court – give an idea of its old grandeur.
Accommodation
- Pugmarks Resort or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
Please note that Ranthambhore National Park is closed between 1 July and 30 September each year. On those trips affected, we'll visit nearby Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary. Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary is located approximately 16 kilometres from Ranthambhore and, due to its hilly terrain, isn't as affected by the monsoon. Tigers inhabit this area also and sightings are more favourable at this time of year as they move away from flooded areas of Ranthambore.Peregrine requires a scanned copy of your passport bio page at the time of booking to secure a permit for your Ranthambore National Park visit. Authorities at Ranthambhore follow a strict booking process whereby permits are issued on a first come first serve basis. If we do not receive correct passport details in time, we cannot guarantee you a place on the tiger safari.
Rise early for a morning safari – your second chance to spot some of this region’s resident tiger population. Even if they are too stealthy to see, the park is filled with other animals like gazelle, hyenas, sloth bears, crocodiles, jackals, three types of antelope (nilgai, sambar and chital) and leopards to watch out for. Afterwards, enjoy some time at leisure at the resort. You may like to take a stroll around town with your free afternoon or continue your relaxation beside the pool, perhaps enjoying a meal at the onsite restaurant, with most of the produce grown at the resort’s organic farm.
Accommodation
- Pugmarks Resort or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Ranthambhore National Park - Morning Safari
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Today, drive to Agra (approximately 5 hours). Once arrived, visit India's most iconic structure – the spectacular Taj Mahal. Best known as a monument to love and loss, the 17th-century Taj was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his second wife and 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. Stop at the nearby Agra Fort – a fortress, palace and prison built of red sandstone by Akbar in 1565 and partially converted into a palace during the time of Shah Jahan.
Accommodation
- Jaypee Palace or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Agra - Taj Mahal
- Agra - Agra Fort
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Travel from Agra to Delhi and explore the bustling city streets on a walking tour. You’ll also get the chance to travel in the local style, by cycle rickshaw, gaining another perspective on this chaotic metropolis. Visit the Sisganj Gurudwara – one of the nine historic gurdwaras (Sikh temples) in Delhi, first constructed in 1783. Stop in at the awe-inspiring Red Fort, which is considered to be the peak of Mughal creativity. Also, pay a visit to the 73-metre-high Qutab Minar and about learn some of its history.
Accommodation
- Jaypee Siddharth or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Delhi - Jama Masjid
- Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour
- Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
Optional Activities
- Delhi - Red Fort - INR500
- Delhi - Qutub Minar - INR500
- Delhi - Humayun's Tomb - INR500
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Fly from Delhi to Varanasi. Awash with shrines and temples, it is the ultimate destination for Hindu pilgrims who travel from far and wide to experience this spiritual city. Varanasi may not be known for its cleanliness, but it is recognised as one of India’s most inspiring cities. Take a walking tour of the Old City, through narrow laneways packed with stalls and shops, past the dhobi wallahs, burning ghats, and the endless temples that echo with bells and the pungent aroma of incense. Witness pilgrims performing ancient bathing rituals and ceremonies as the sun sets over this sacred city.
Accommodation
- Hotel Hindustan International or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour
- Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
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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 today 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 quality pieces from a local silk merchant. Perhaps finish the day with an optional Ganges river cruise at sunset.
Accommodation
- Hotel Hindustan International or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip
Optional Activities
- Varanasi - Sarnath (entry) - INR250
Meals Included
- Breakfast
This morning will be free for you to soak up the atmosphere of Varanasi. Perhaps hit the streets to do some last-minute shopping in the incredible bazaars or simply wander through the ghats. Later today, return to Delhi by plane (approximately 1.5 hours), arriving early afternoon. This evening, consider dining with your group with an optional dinner organised by your leader – a perfect occasion to celebrate the many memories made during your India adventure.
Accommodation
- Jaypee Siddharth Hotel or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
- Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure - INR3500
- Delhi - Home-Cooked Delhi Urban Adventure - INR4000
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Return to the airport and fly to Kathmandu today. You will be met at the airport by a Peregrine representative who will transfer you to your hotel. There will be a group briefing with your new tour leader in the late afternoon. Usually the meeting is followed by an optional group dinner at one of Kathmandu's fine Nepali restaurants.
Accommodation
- Hotel Shangri-La or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.Special Information
As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group will likely change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary. We suggest you attend, as this is also a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers. It’s important that you attend the welcome meeting as your new group leader will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
In the early morning, you will make an attempt at the Mount Everest scenic flight. This amazing experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park, through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, climaxing by getting up close to Mount Everest. Later in the morning, explore Kathmandu on an organised sightseeing tour. You will visit 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.
Accommodation
- Annapurna Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight
- Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
- Kathmandu - Bodhnath Stupa
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that the Everest scenic flight is completely weather dependent. In cases of bad weather, the scenic flight will be attempted at the end of the trip.
Travel to Nagarkot in a private vehicle. On the 3-hour journey, there are two stops at UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way, starting with Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is revered as one of the world’s few well preserved ancient cities, playing host to a wondrous range of exotically designed temples and statues. Then wander to the ancient temple of Changu Narayan, erected in dedication to the Lord Vishnu and site of numerous legends. Upon arrival to Nagarkot, prepare for an overnight stay at Club Himalaya, renowned for its unrestricted view of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan and the surrounding areas.
Accommodation
- Club Himalaya or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Bhaktapur - Guided walk
- Bhaktapur - Changu Narayan Temple
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Wake up and witness an early morning 180-degree sunrise view before travelling to Kathmandu airport by chartered coach. From here, you will fly to Pokhara with an estimated flight time of 30 minutes – if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Himalayan mountain chain to the north. On arrival, take a boat ride across the lake of Phewa Tal, the second largest lake in Nepal. The visit to the Peace Pagoda afterwards grants excellent views of the mountains including the Annapurnas, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and a glimpse back across to Pokhara. Next comes a visit to the International Mountain Museum, which is full of fascinating tales and exploits from climbing expeditions of the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. After this, you have the day free to explore peaceful Pohkara and its surrounds.
Accommodation
- Shangri-La Village or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Enjoy a free day for further exploration of the peaceful surroundings of Pokhara. Your group leader can advise you of sightseeing opportunities – maybe take a boat for a row out on the lake, explore the Hindu temple or Buddhist monastery, or simply pick up some souvenirs and relax in your hotel.
Accommodation
- Shangri-La Village or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Travel by private vehicle to Tansen on a 5-hour drive. Formerly known as the capital of the Magar kingdom Tanahun, Tansen is now known as the home of the United Mission Hospital, a partnership between 20 Christian organisations and Nepal that sees over 100,000 patients per year. During your stay, visit Tansen town, the palace museum, a dhaka topi (traditional hat) and brass bottle workshop and experience an interaction with the locals.
Accommodation
- Hotel Shrinagar or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Though our accommodation in Shrinagar will have all amenities required and private bathrooms, our hotel for this night will be a little more basic when compared to other accommodation on this trip. Accommodation options in this region are limited, but this is the best Hotel in the area.
An optional hike to the Rani Mahal is available today. Rani Mahal translates to ‘Queens Palace’, as the site was built as a monument of love to the deceased youngest wife of former general Khadga Samsher Rana, Tej Kumari Devi. Your other option is to travel to Tansen Hill station where panoramic views of Annapurna and Tansen valley can be seen, and Tansen town lies nearby should you wish to continue exploring it. Later this afternoon drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.
Accommodation
- Hotel Hokke or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
This morning head out of Lumbini to Tilaurakot, which houses the ruins of ancient Kapilvastu – the capital of the Sakya kingdom and where Buddha spent his youth as Prince Siddhartha. Also, explore Nighlihawa and Gotihawa, which are closeby to Tilaurakot and have broken Ashoka pillars and other relics. Enjoy lunch and then return to Lumbini in the afternoon. There’s also the option to explore Lumbini’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lumbini is known as the holiest place of one of the world’s great religions and the area contains important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage centres from as early as third century BC. Discover the serenity of the Maya Devi Temple, the statue of Little Buddha, and the Bodhi Tree, which is very close by your accommodation.
Accommodation
- Hotel Hokke or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Lumbini - Heritage Park
Meals Included
- Breakfast
After breakfast, prepare to be picked up and driven to Chitwan National Park (approximately 4 hours). After arriving and settling in, meet the camp staff and resident naturalists who will discuss the park’s habitat conservation program. There’s some flexibility with activities in this area, which may vary depending on the time of year and known wildlife movements and locations. A late afternoon safari is an experience like none other, showing the varied and exciting flora and fauna of the park. Enjoy dinner with your group and relax at your accommodation’s bar while discussing the day’s sightings or listening to the song of the jungle.
Accommodation
- Kasara Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Chitwan NP - Village tour
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
After breakfast, leave the lodge for an early morning trip to begin a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This exhilarating ride offers chances to spot marsh mugger crocodiles along with the various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but the magnificent creatures inhabit the park so it’s not to be ruled out. Upon your return to dry land, an organised program will help fill the rest of the day and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.
Accommodation
- Kasara Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Chitwan - Canoe safari, bird watching walk or jeep safari
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Drive to Chitwan Airport on a 1-hour drive before flying back to Kathmandu. The afternoon is yours to enjoy, so perhaps engage in some shopping or just relax at your hotel. A farewell dinner will be held at the Utsav Restaurant, featuring an authentic night of local cultural food and dance.
Accommodation
- Hotel Shangri-La or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Your Nepalese adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. Your leader will be on hand to advise and assist with any onward travel arrangements. Don’t forget to check out the great selection of Urban Adventures tours if you have some extra time in Kathmandu. Find out more at urbanadventures.com/destination/kathmandu-tours.
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.Meals
20 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinnersTransport
Bus, Plane, Private vehicleAccommodation
Comfortable hotel (17 nights), Jungle Lodge Feature Stay (2 nights), Heritage Property (1 night), Resort (2 nights)Included Activities
- Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
- Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema
- Jaipur - Amber Fort
- Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari
- Ranthambhore National Park - Morning Safari
- Agra - Taj Mahal
- Agra - Agra Fort
- Delhi - Jama Masjid
- Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour
- Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
- 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
- Bhaktapur - Guided walk
- Bhaktapur - Changu Narayan Temple
- Lumbini - Heritage Park
- Chitwan NP - Village tour
- Chitwan - Canoe safari, bird watching walk or jeep safari
Important notes
1. 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.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
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 if an amendment occurs.
4. This trip includes domestic and international flights as indicated on the trip map. The luggage allowance for domestic flights is 15kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on. The international flight between India and Nepal has a luggage allowance of 20kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on. You can store excess luggage at the start point hotels in Delhi and Kathmandu.
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