Old & New Delhi - The Capital City of India - A Blend of Traditional and Modern Art, Culture, and Lifestyle

Humayun’s Tomb - The guide will meet the group at a preferred location in Delhi, Gurugram, or Noida at 8 AM for a full-day tour of Old & New Delhi. After a brief introduction to India’s rich cultural heritage, the day begins with a visit to Humayun’s Tomb. Built in 1569-70, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the resting place of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun. The mausoleum is a prime example of Mughal architecture, featuring a Charbagh garden typical of Persian gardens, setting a precedent for future Mughal architecture. A century later, it inspired the construction of the Taj Mahal.

Raj Ghat - Raj Ghat is a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi in Delhi, India. In the open gardens, a black marble platform marks the spot of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation, with an eternal flame burning at one end.

Red Fort - This historic fort in Old Delhi was the seat of power for many centuries. Built in the 17th century by the Mughals, the Red Fort has witnessed the rise and fall of many empires. Many structures inside the fort complex were demolished by the British when it was used as a garrison. Every year on India’s Independence Day (15 August), the Prime Minister hoists the Indian tricolor flag at the fort’s main gate and delivers a nationally broadcast speech from its ramparts. The tour will pass by this massive fort and instead visit the Fort in Agra, which is better preserved and a replica of the Red Fort in Delhi.

Friday Mosque (Jama Masjid) - Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India, located in Old Delhi. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (also the builder of the Taj Mahal) between 1644 and 1656, the courtyard can accommodate more than 25,000 people. Visitors are advised to wear full trousers, and women should cover their arms by wearing a full-sleeved dress when visiting Jama Masjid.

Chandni Chowk - Chandni Chowk, or Moonlight Square, is one of the busiest markets in Old Delhi. The market has existed for three centuries, offering spices, dried fruits, silver jewelry, and vibrant saris, while narrow side streets are lined with small shops selling essential oils, stationery, and traditional Indian sweets. A rickshaw ride or a walk through the narrow lanes and by-lanes of this market is often enjoyed by visitors.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib - By now, it will be time for lunch, and the group will head to the heart of Delhi, Connaught Place. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, or the Sikh Temple in Delhi, is a main worship place for Sikhs. A beautiful white building with a golden dome has a pool (Sarovar) inside the complex where devotees bathe before entering the temple. The holy rhymes of Gurbani provide a meditative atmosphere. Visitors can volunteer to make Indian bread (Roti or Chapati) in the large community kitchen inside the temple, which serves free food daily to all visitors and devotees of all religions, societies, castes, and creeds. If desired, enjoy the delicious Indian food cooked and served for free in this Sikh temple or explore the many dining options available in Connaught Place.

India Gate - Constructed in 1931, India Gate is a war memorial to the 70,000 British Indian Army soldiers who died during the First World War. The 42-meter-high India Gate, an “Arc-de-Triomphe”-like archway in the middle of a crossroad, bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed on the Northwestern Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919.

Rashtrapati Bhavan - Drive past the President’s House and other Parliamentary Buildings, part of Lutyens’ Delhi, constructed between 1920 and 1940 after it was decided that the capital of British India would be shifted from Calcutta to Delhi. The President’s House, or Rashtrapati Bhavan, is the home of the President of the largest democracy in the world. Other notable buildings designed by Sir Edward Lutyens and his team include Parliament House, North and South Blocks, which house the offices of ministers and other government officials.

Qutub Minar - Qutub Minar is a 73-meter-tall minaret in the Qutub Complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the tallest brick minaret in the world and a leading example of Islamic art. Built in the 12th century, this soaring Tower of Victory has five distinct stories. At the foot of the tower is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque built in India. Qutub Minar is illuminated at night from 7:00 pm onwards. It is recommended to visit Qutub Minar in the early evening hours and stay a little late to experience the shine of this beautiful monument.

Delhi-Agra, The Capital City of Mughals in India and the City of Taj Mahal (210 Kms / 3 Hours)

Swaminarayan Akshardham - After breakfast, the guide will meet the group at a preferred location to show Akshardham Temple in Delhi, belonging to the Swami Narayan sect and one of the largest Hindu temples in the world. The temple is a unique example of 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom, and bliss. It showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions, and timeless spiritual messages. This stunning architectural work made of pink stone and white marble was constructed recently. Its monumental and eclectic beauty has made it one of the most popular Hindu temples. The temple remains closed every Monday. If today is Monday, the visit to Akshardham Temple will be scheduled for the day prior.

Agra Fort - Situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, Agra has been the capital of the Mughals and is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Taj Mahal. The glory of Agra attracts travelers from all around the world. After checking in at the pre-booked hotel, the guide will meet the group to visit Agra Fort, a massive fort complex with many royal pavilions, halls of public and private audiences, and beautiful mosques. Construction of the fort was initiated by Akbar, followed by additions of royal pavilions and mosques by later Mughal emperors. Agra Fort is a superb specimen of Mughal architecture. It is the same fort where Mughal emperor Shahjahan was imprisoned and later died viewing the most beautiful tomb of his beloved wife.

Mehtab Bagh - Situated on the banks of the river Yamuna and opposite the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh, or Moonlit Gardens, offers treasured views of the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset. The garden is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal and was the last of the eleven Mughal-built gardens in the shape of Char Bagh.

Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center - The Taj Mahal depicts the eternal love of Emperor Shahjahan for his beloved Queen and wife Mumtaz Mahal. Mohabbat-E-Taj is a live musical extravaganza performed by more than 75 talented artists at a world-class theater at Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center. This live show is all about the romantic stories of Emperor Shahjahan and Queen Mumtaz Mahal, also titled “Lady of the Taj.” The grandeur of the story is well created and presented amidst state-of-the-art sound and light effects. The entire 80-minute show is like a traditional historical Bollywood movie with Indian dances performed live at a theater. It is important to note that this show operates only between September and April each year.

Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Chand Baori (Stepwell) - Jaipur, The Pink City (250 Kms/ 6 Hours)

Taj Mahal - Wake up early, enjoy tea or coffee in the room, and meet with the tour guide to visit the most photographed monument in the world, “The Taj Mahal,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the Monument of Love, Romance in Marble, and Crown of the Palaces, many words and phrases have been used by scholars and poets to describe this beautiful building. For tourists, it is simply superb, amazing, and marvelous. Constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the tomb of his beloved queen, the magical allure of the Taj Mahal will undoubtedly be the highlight of the tour. Though the Taj Mahal can be visited at any time of the day, the most amazing views are during sunrise and sunset when the sky forms a symphony of colors, and the almost translucent marble of this eternal monument absorbs the magical light and reflects it. Please note that the Taj Mahal remains closed for tourists every Friday, so if the scheduled visit is on a Friday, the visit to the Taj Mahal will be scheduled for sunset the day prior.

Fatehpur Sikri - After visiting the Taj Mahal, return to the hotel. Post breakfast, check out and drive west to the Pink City of Jaipur with a couple of stops en route. The first stop will be at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the erstwhile capital of the Mughals, approximately 38 km away. It was founded by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1571. Imperial buildings and palaces were constructed within a walled city. The city got its name as Fatehpur Sikri, or City of Victory, after Akbar’s victory over Gujarat. The palace complex has many architectural masterpieces like Diwan-E-Khas, Diwan-E-Am, Panch Mahal, Anup Talao, Treasury, Astrologer’s seat, Jahangiri Mahal, and Buland Darwaza. A white marble building houses the grave of a Sufi saint under an ornate wooden canopy encrusted with a mother-of-pearl mosaic. After visiting Fatehpur Sikri, the journey continues to Jaipur with another stop at Chand Baori in Abhaneri.

Chand Baori (Stepwell) - After the visit, the next stop will be at Chand Baori in the small village of Abhaneri. The local guide at the monument will be glad to explain Baoris or Step-wells, which have existed in India for centuries. Stepwells are wells or ponds in which the water is reached by descending a set of steps to the water level. These were designed and created as water reservoirs. Chand Baori, or Moonlit Stepwell, in the small village of Abhaneri between Agra and Jaipur, was constructed by local ruler Chand in the 8th century. There are 3,500 stairs set in perfect symphony descending downwards to 20 meters through 13 floors.

Birla Mandir Temple - Arrive in Jaipur by early evening. Check in at the pre-booked hotel and later in the evening visit Birla Mandir, or Birla Temple, built in white marble at the base of Moti Dungri hill in Jaipur. Birla Mandir in Jaipur is special due to its intricate latticework in white marble. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (one of the Trinity of GODS and preserver of the universe), and being at the temple during the arti (puja) in the evening is an experience.

Jaipur - The UNESCO World Heritage City known for its Forts, Palaces, and Colorful Bazaars

Amber Fort - The guide will meet the group at the hotel at 8 AM to conduct a full-day city tour. Proceed to Amber, on the outskirts of Jaipur, which was the capital of the erstwhile rulers of Kachwaha Rajputs until Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II shifted the capital to Jaipur. Amer Fort, set on top of a hill in the Aravali mountain range, is a perfect blend of Rajasthani architecture. The opulent palace is laid out on four levels, each with a courtyard. It consists of the Diwan-e-Aam, or “Hall of Public Audience,” the Diwan-e-Khas, or “Hall of Private Audience,” the Sheesh Mahal, and the Sukh Niwas, where a cool climate is artificially created by winds that blow over a water cascade within the palace. The walls of the royal pavilions are beautifully painted using vegetable colors. Visitors can either walk up to the fort using the staircase (a 15-minute walk) or take a private jeep, which is also a unique experience as it drives up to the fort through the winding lanes at the back of the fort.

Jal Mahal - A photo stop at Jal Mahal (meaning Water Palace) is a palace in the middle of Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur. The Jal Mahal palace is an architectural showcase of the Rajput style of architecture. The building offers a picturesque view of Man Sagar Lake, but owing to its seclusion from land, it is equally the focus of a viewpoint in front of the backdrop of the surrounding Nahargarh hills.

Hawa Mahal - Palace of Wind - A photo stop at the Palace of Winds, or Hawa Mahal, one of the most iconic buildings of Jaipur in Rajasthan. Constructed in 1799 as an extension to City Palace, it is an exquisite building with 953 small windows, called Jharokha, decorated with intricate latticework (jali or screen). The original reason for the lattice design was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life and festivals celebrated in the street below without being seen, as was the custom of those days, which forbade them from appearing in public without face coverings.

City Palace of Jaipur - Visit City Palace in Jaipur, a fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace continues to be the home of the royal family of Jaipur and was constructed in 1727 by Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh II when he shifted his capital from Amer to Jaipur. The palace complex today has several buildings, courtyards, and museums. Exquisite carpets, bright Rajput weapons, delicate clothes, and ornamented palanquins will remind visitors of the grandeur of this princely era of India. The royal family, including the present maharaja of Jaipur, still lives in one of the wings of this complex.

Jantar Mantar - Jaipur - Jantar Mantar, or Observatory, is the largest stone astronomical observatory in the world and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nineteen instruments built in stone can calculate the exact time and position of the Pole Star, predict eclipses, or check the incidence of the sun at a certain time on an astrological sign. Even today, visitors will be surprised by its accuracy.

Bapu Bazar - Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise and offers opportunities for shopping for souvenirs for giveaways to the finest pieces of expensive precious stones set in designed jewelry. Jaipur is also famous for its carpet weaving, along with the unique style of Tie & Dye and Block-printing on fabric. The markets of Jaipur are unique, as all have similar facades painted in pink color and sell authentic handicrafts ranging from imitation jewelry, mirror and patchwork on fabric, stoles, shawls, and sarees. A walk in Bapu Bazar or Johri Bazar is a wonderful way to learn about Rajasthani culture and colors.

Patrika Gate - Patrika Gate, the top photo location in Jaipur, is a new monument-type entrance gate. Fabulous archways are beautifully painted, depicting the monuments and Rajasthani culture.

Jaipur - Kathmandu (By a Scheduled Commercial Flight with a Connection in Delhi)

Galtaji Temple - The guide will meet the group at the hotel and take them to Galta Ji. This majestic temple is situated at the heart of a hilly terrain bounded by a beautiful gorge that attracts tourists every year. Galtaji Temple was built using pink sandstone and is a vast temple complex housing various shrines. Located inside the City Palace, the walls of this temple are beautifully adorned with carvings and paintings, making this place worth visiting. The Galtaji temple is unique in its architecture and has been constructed like a palace. This temple is known for the many tribes of monkeys found here, and the religious hymns and chants, along with the natural setting, offer a peaceful ambiance to tourists.

Kathmandu - With the visit to Galta Ji, the trip to Jaipur comes to an end. Afterward, the group will be taken to Jaipur airport to connect the flight for Kathmandu via Delhi. Kathmandu Valley, historically known as Nepal Valley or Nepa Valley, with seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is the most developed and populated place in Nepal. World Heritage Sites and Royal Squares surrounded by ancient temples, idols, and shrines take visitors to a different world of the medieval era. Kathmandu is also an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, as it has many centuries-old stupas and monasteries where hundreds of Buddhist monks live and practice their religion. Kathmandu is also the base city for trekking to the highest mountain peak of Everest and the second-highest peak of the Annapurna Mountain range. For those who cannot trek to Mount Everest, a wonderful experience of capturing glimpses of the tallest peak by a short flight is also available.

Thamel - Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, and the tour guide will meet the group for further transfer to the hotel. After a short relaxation and briefing of the entire luxury journey to Kathmandu, the exploration of this beautiful city begins. Thamel is the main commercial street in the heart of Kathmandu. It has been the hottest spot for tourism inside the Kathmandu Valley since the hippie days when many artists came to Nepal and spent weeks and months in Thamel. Thamel is known for its narrow and crowded lanes with various shops and vendors selling goods, including food, fresh vegetables/fruits, pastries, trekking gear, walking gear, music, DVDs, handicrafts, souvenirs, woolen items, and clothes.

Kathmandu Valley - Medieval City of Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Swayambhunath Temple - After breakfast in the hotel, meet with the personal guide, and after a small briefing of the day, proceed for a full-day tour of Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the holiest Buddhist stupas in Nepal, believed to date back to 460 AD, and is an important center of Buddhism in Nepal. The history of Kathmandu Valley is said to have started with the beginning of Swoyambhu - The self-created. The largest image of the Sakya Muni Buddha in Nepal is in a monastery next to the stupa. Resting on a hillock, Swayambhunath Stupa overlooks most parts of the valley and gives a panoramic view to visitors. This stupa is the oldest of its kind in Nepal and has numerous shrines, temples, and a Tibetan monastery on its premises.

Kathmandu Durbar Square - Kathmandu Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a Durbar Square (durbar translates to “palace” or “a court held by a prince”) and is an important site for Buddhist and Hindu rituals, holy ceremonies, royal events, and kingly coronations. Kathmandu Durbar Square is a meditative, religious site for spiritual seekers. It is surrounded by many ancient temples, idols, and shrines. Durbar Square includes the Temple of the Living Goddess, Hanuman Dhoka, a temple dedicated to the monkey god Hanuman, and Kasthamandap (Wooden Shelter). The Royal Palaces used to house the kings of the Shah and Malla Dynasty, who ruled over the city until the 19th century. The palaces have since been turned into museums.

Boudhanath Stupa - Boudha Stupa is one of the most impressive structures in Kathmandu and is visible as soon as one arrives at Kathmandu International Airport. It is the largest stupa not only in Kathmandu Valley but also in South Asia. The 36-meter-high stupa of Boudha Stupa, along with hundreds of monasteries around, is the center of Tibetan Buddhism. On each side, the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha are painted, symbolizing awareness. The location of the stupa is interesting as it once lay on the ancient trade route to Tibet, and it was here that Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers for many centuries.

Singing Bowl In Nepal - Singing Bowls, or Tibetan Singing Bowls, have been used for centuries by Buddhist monks to practice meditation and stress relaxation. Kathmandu is the best place to experience a session of meditation to reduce stress and harmonize the body’s energy system. Usually, a session is about 45 minutes and is performed by a master. Bowls made of brass and often having beautiful designs vibrate and produce a rich, deep tone when played. Singing Bowls have been used by practitioners (including music therapists, massage therapists, and yoga therapists) who use Tibetan singing bowls during treatment. Many proponents claim that the vibrations of a singing bowl can produce beneficial changes in the body by reducing stress, “harmonizing” the cells, and “balancing the body’s energy system.”

Nepali Chulo - Nepal, a country with medieval cultures in the lap of the Himalayas and having boundaries with India, Bhutan, and China, has evolved a fusion food to suit the taste buds of people from all around the world. Later in the evening, enjoy meals at Nepali Chulo, a famous restaurant for an informal dinner while artists perform live dances inspired by the stories of the Living Goddess, the Kumari Devi, or the bravery of Gorkhas and Sherpas. Nepali Chulo serves sumptuous dinner in traditional brassware, often with floor seating.

Kathmandu Valley - Medieval City of Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Patan Durbar Square - Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO Heritage site, is home to the valley’s finest craftsmen who have preserved ancient art techniques. Patan Durbar Square is also known as Lalitpur, “City of Beauty,” and its unique royal palace, artistically designed temples and monasteries, alleys, cuisines, and religious tolerance justify the prehistoric status of the city. It’s a place where both religions of Nepal, Hinduism and Buddhism, flourished together. The Royal Palace of Patan is now converted into a museum and houses a fine collection of metal craft, wood carvings, and a precious Malla era throne. The beautiful Krishna temple is built entirely of stone, which is the most important Krishna shrine of the valley. A remarkable terracotta temple worth a visit is the Mahaboudha, a shikara-style temple with a thousand images of the Buddha.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square - Bhaktapur Durbar Square, or the City of Devotees, is one of the three main Durbar Squares of Kathmandu Valley. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the living representation of how the entire Kathmandu Valley would have looked during the medieval periods. Bhaktapur was the capital of the Kathmandu Valley until 1482 AD. The city is celebrated for its glorious architecture and sky-high temples built in pagoda style. Bhaktapur still retains the medieval charm, and visitors to this ancient town are treated with myriad wonders of cultural and artistic achievements. The past glory of the Malla rulers continues to be reflected at the Durbar Square. Nyatapole Temple (dedicated to Goddess Durga), Dattatraya Temple, 55 Windows Palace, and Golden Gate are the most beautiful monuments to visit in Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Pashupatinath Temple - Pashupatinath Temple, one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal, is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. The largest temple complex in Nepal, along both ends of the Bagmati River, was built in the 5th century AD, though it is believed that the site itself has been in existence from the beginning of the millennium when a Shiva Lingam was discovered here. The main pagoda-style temple has a gilded roof, four sides covered in silver, and exquisite wood carvings. The inner sanctum in the main temple has a Shiva lingam, and facing the temple sits the largest statue of Nandi the bull, the vehicle of Shiva. There are hundreds of Shiva lingams within the compound. Cremation of Hindus takes place on raised platforms along the river Bagmati, the Ganges of Nepal.

Kathmandu Valley

Dhulikhel - Dhulikhel, a small village on the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley (about 30 km from Kathmandu Durbar Square and 15 km from Bhaktapur Durbar Square), has a reputation as the top spot for enjoying Himalayan views, with eight ranges visible (Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal, Rolwaling, Everest, and Number). An early morning visit is always the best time to experience a stunning sunrise over the Himalayas. One can experience these mesmerizing views from the terrace of luxury Dwarika’s Resort Dhulikhel, which also serves a fabulous and healthy breakfast. However, timing is everything, as the mountains are notorious for disappearing behind cloudy skies. The best viewing seasons are October to December and March to April when clear skies are likely.

Kathmandu - After viewing the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas from Dhulikhel, return to the hotel for breakfast. With this, the tour services come to an end. However, the group will be gladly dropped off at Kathmandu International or domestic airport for onward flights at any desired time. Alternatively, they can be dropped off at any other hotel or desired location in Kathmandu.

• 7 nights of twin-sharing hotel accommodation (with hotel option booked)
• Return ride at Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri via battery bus/golf cart
• Unlimited free Wi-Fi during the trip
• Flight from Jaipur to Kathmandu with a Delhi stopover
• Tour guide services for sightseeing and city tours
• Air-conditioned vehicle with chauffeur for the entire trip
• Entrance fees to listed monuments included
• Dinner and breakfast provided
• All applicable fees and taxes covered
• Unlimited bottled mineral water provided in vehicle
• Private Jeep for Amer Fort in Jaipur available (alternative to walking)

• Any other item / visits / services not mentioned in itinerary
• Any other meal, snacks or beverages not specified in the itinerary
• Gratuities
• Mount Everest Flight experience in Nepal is not included
• Visa fee to enter in Nepal is not included

The Essential India Tour paired with Classic Nepal is a meticulously designed itinerary spanning over 8 days, during which you will explore the iconic Golden Triangle of India and the ancient city of Kathmandu in Nepal. This tour introduces you to the historic landscapes of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, in addition to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. This journey offers a unique blend of history, culture, and heritage from India and Nepal. Begin in Delhi, the capital of the vast, mystical subcontinent that is India, then venture to Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal, onward to Jaipur, an area famed for its grand forts and royal palaces. Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is renowned as the land of the Living Goddess and is a testament to the architectural wonders of the medieval era.

• Leisurely 8-day guided tour of the Golden Triangle in India with addition of Nepal
• Experiencing the top cultural and historic landmarks in India and Nepal
• Explore the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan’s Forts & Palaces, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
• Enjoy the comfort of direct flights from Jaipur to Kathmandu via Delhi

• All travelers require valid Visa prior to the arrival in India. Nepal visa can be obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu airport
• Taj Mahal remains closed for visitors on every Friday. In case scheduled Taj Mahal visiting day fall on Friday, You will visit Taj Mahal a day prior
• Akshardham Temple in Delhi remains closed on every Monday. In case scheduled Akshardham visiting day fall on Monday, You will visit Akshardham Temple a day prior
• Taj Mahal sunrise visit is subject to weather conditions
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• This is a Private Tour and no sharing of other tourists is allowed
• As per the prevailing guidelines of Government of India, All foreign travelers should either have Vaccination Completion Certificate of their respective country OR a negative RT-PCR Test report of 72 hours before the departure from the originating country
• Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
• Mount Everest flight experience is subject to weather conditions.
• Check in baggage allowance for flight from Jaipur to Kathmandu via Delhi shall be 20 Kgs as allowed by scheduled commercial airlines

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.