18 Days Best Of North - West India With Nepal Tour

Morning after breakfast proceed for half day guided city sightseeing tour of Mumbai City. Drive past Afghan church & Flora fountain built in 1869, in honor of then Bombay's governor Sir Bentley. Visit St. Thomas Cathedral, Jain Temples, the Town Hall, Hanging Garden & the Tower of Silence – A Parsi funeral site situated on the slopes of Malabar Hills offering majestic views of the Mumbai Skyline and the Arabian ocean.

Drive on further to Kamla Nehru Park, visit Mani Bhawan (where Mahatma Gandhi stayed), marvel at the Dhobi Ghats (Laundry cleaning place) and lose yourself in history at the Prince of Wales museum (closed on Monday’s). Finish your tour visiting The Gateway of India a monument built during the 20th century, overlooking the Arabian Sea, to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary when they visited India. Built in Indo-Saracenic style, the foundation stone for the Gateway of India was laid on 31 March 1911. Don’t miss the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel which lies right across this magnificent Gateway which has been referred as the Taj Mahal of Bombay. Return to your hotel via the colorful Crawford Market & Marine drive also called the Queen’s Necklace.

Afternoon is free to explore the exotic & colorful markets, handicraft & jewelers shops, clothes boutiques, museum and art galleries of Mumbai (Vehicle and driver will be at disposal). Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Studio Complex. Why Mumbai is called the dream city (Maya Nagari) is visible here. Drawn by Bollywood dreams, the city sees an influx of Bollywood crazy wannabe stars, songwriters, singers, directors and dancers everyday Indian Film Industry being the poorer copycat cousin of Hollywood to the point of mishmash name Bollywood (the Hollywood of Bombay). In 2006, Bollywood produced 800 movies.

You will see a live shooting at the Film City situated in the forest cover of Borivali National Park which is the Mumbai’s biggest film studio. Out of bounds without prior permission, close to 20 shoots go on simultaneously at the sets and outdoor locations within its compounds. The property also has chalets where actors can live on location during extended shootings, a large storage facility for props that can be reused, and a workshop where the components of the sets are prefabricated. Have lunch at Bollywood café before returning to your hotel.

After fresh & change, transfer to Mumbai International airport to board your flight to Kathmandu at 1725 hrs. Later on arrival at 2010 hrs, meeting, assistance & transfer to your pre booked hotel for Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, depart for a full day guided tour of Nepal’s capital Kathmandu, a blend of old and new and the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Nepal. This morning we visit Bodhnath Stupa, a beautiful Buddhist worship site with spinning prayer wheels and prostrating pilgrims. Our next stop is the ancient city of Bhaktapur and its beautiful Durbar Square, Nepal’s cultural gem. Visit local families to see Ju Ju Dhau (yoghurt) being made and to try our hand at pottery making maintained its traditional lifestyle and is famous for its pottery.

Continue your journey and visit Pashupatinath temple, & Swayambhunath Stupa (monkey temple), Patan and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Some of these ancient monuments are UNESCO declared World Heritage sites & stand to display the rich history of this ancient valley that was once a kingdom to itself & a center where kings met on a certain day to go to war with one another on the next day. Kathmandu is a wonderful mix of different cultures & ancient traditions that are still practiced till this day. Return to your hotel for overnight stay at Hotel

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, depart for Nagarkot (2130m) on arrival check into your pre booked hotel. Enjoy a buffet lunch and in the evening soak in the stunning scenery of the Himalayan sunset before retiring to your room for a goodnight sleep.

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Early morning get up to view sunrise. Enjoy your breakfast with nature. Post breakfast, transfer by surface to Kathmandu International Airport to board your Jet Air flight at 0920 hrs for Delhi. On arrival at 1110 hrs meeting, assistance and transfer to your pre booked hotel.

Delhi is a city built and rebuilt seven times over several centuries. The capital city today marries the quaint and unique elements of different historical eras with the pace of the bustling, growing economy. At every turn of the road, the past and the present coexist (Room check in 1400 hrs)

Afternoon proceed for half day guided city tour of New Delhi. The buildings designed by Edward Lutyens, architect of modern Delhi - are truly majestic. Drive past The Presidential Palace, Parliament House and India Gate which are all reminiscent of the British “Raj”. We stop for photo shoots before driving onward to visit an Hindu temple Next driving through Delhi’s beautiful tree-lined avenues and the Diplomatic Enclave area we arrive to visit the 12th century, 234-foot high fluted minaret of Qutab Minar. You finish your tour visiting Humayun's Tomb, the second Mughal Emperor to rule India, Overnight stay in hotel

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, depart by surface for the City of Jaipur - an exuberance of colors, dance & song with traditional arts and crafts. Known, as the 'Pink City', it is one of India's most well planned cities with wide straight avenues, roads, streets and lanes in a grid system. A 5.5 hours’ drive gets us to this land of Maharaja's, Forts and Palaces with its diversity of colors & culture that is unique to the State of Rajasthan. On arrival, check in to your Hotel

Afternoon is reserved for half day guided city sightseeing tour. Visit the City Palace, the Palace Museum, Jantar Mantar (Jai Singh's observatory) Drive past Hawa Mahal (Palace of winds) & stop to visit Albert hall museum. Return to hotel via Johari Bazaar (Gem Market) and the Curio shops. Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, proceed for full day guided excursion to see two of the most impressive forts of Rajasthan. Visit the impressive Amber Fort the former capital of the Royal Family of Jaipur, An exotic elephant ride (subject to availability, otherwise Jeeps/car will be used) transports us to the lofty fort, high up in the hills, where we’ll experience a tour of this Rajput extravaganza. It is a deserted palace surrounded by majestic ramparts and the magnificent public & private room's and the evidence of the splendor of the rulers of 16th & 17th century Rajasthan.

Next visit the Jaigarh fort built in 1726, which houses the world’s largest cannon on wheels. Return to your hotel (you have the option of either coming back or go to numerous restaurants spread all over Jaipur for lunch)

Afternoon is free to explore the exotic & colorful markets, handicraft & jewelers shops, clothes boutiques, museum and art galleries of Jaipur (Vehicle and driver will be at disposal). Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, depart by surface for the Mughal splendor of Agra, en-route stop to visit Fatehpur Sikri the well preserved ghost city located 35 Kms from Agra. A 5 hrs journey brings us to this magnificent fort, built in red sandstone. Once the political capital of India's Mughal Empire under Akbar's reign, from 1571 until 1585, it was abandoned, ostensibly due to lack of water. Sikri shared its imperial duties as a capital city with Agra, where a bulk of the arsenal, treasure hoards and other reserves were kept at its Red Fort for security. During a crisis, the court, harem, and treasury could be removed to Agra, less than a day's march. Visit the tomb of Salim Chisti built by Mughal emperor Akbar in honor of this Sufi saint in 1571 who foretold the birth of 3 sons to the Emperor Akbar, is an example of robust stability combined with originality. Each important edifice here represents a type by itself. Notable among them are the Diwan I Khas, Punch Mahal, and the Buland Darwaza. Later drive on to Agra & on arrival check-in to your Hotel. Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, the day is reserved city sightseeing. Begin your guided tour visiting Sikandra is the mausoleum of Akbar. Akbar himself started construction of this beautiful monument. This structure has a perfect blending of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, Jain themes. Sikandra Fort is located in the western periphery of the city at a distance of about 10 Kms from the city center. After visit return to Agra City and visit the Agra Fort which lies across the river Yamuna which abode attractive constructions such as Pearl Mosque, Jahangir Mahal, Di wan-i-Khas, Di-wan-i- Am and more. It was here that Aurangzeb the 3rd son of Shah Jahan kept his father under house arrest until his death.

Afternoon, at 1530 hrs proceed on “Tonga” (Horse driven chariots) with your guide to visit the Taj Mahal to witness sunset (subject to weather condition) Taj Mahal, a UNESCO Heritage monument, is a fine example of fusion of many architectural styles is one of the wonders of the modern world. Built in 1652 by Emperor Shah Jahan, It took 22 years and 20,000 skilled artisans to complete this poem in white marble. Take your time to marvel at this unfathomable beauty built by human hands and enjoy the changing colors of the “Taj” as the sun goes down. Return to hotel for Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Early morning transfer to Agra Railway Station to board superfast Shatabdi Express at 0802hrs for Jhansi. Breakfast will be served on board the train. Later on arrival at 10.44hrs, you are greeted and escorted by our Jhansi associate’s representative to your waiting car to begin your journey by surface to the City of Orchha in the Tikamgarh district of Madhya Pradesh. A 40 minutes’ drive brings us to this historically important city.

On arrival proceed for a guided sightseeing tour of the medieval city of Orcha and erstwhile capital city of the redoubtable Bundela kings. Bordered by the beautiful Betwa River, Orchha reflects the sumptuousness and magnificence of the mighty Bundelas. With its striking forts, regal palaces, poetry carved temples and chhatris; Orchha presents a matchless spectacle and is a delightful place for photographers. An effervescent city with salubrious climate and glorious past, Orchha is renowned for its world class Mural Paintings. The outstanding frescos on the walls of the marvelous temples and regal palaces leave the viewer spellbound.

Complete sightseeing and proceed for lunch at Amar Mahal. The Old palace, which still stands high depicting the tales of bygone era, was once witness to the grand royal stories. Enjoy your Lunch with a panoramic view of the monuments, surrounding hills and wildlife sanctuary.

After lunch proceed by surface for Khajuraho – also called the “land of the moon god” is located at a distance of 172 Kms and is a 3.5 hrs drive. The temples of Khajuraho were built sometime between 950 to 1050 A.D. during the reign of Rajput Chandela dynasty of Central India (These rulers claimed descent -from the moon, hence the name Chand-ela). Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its enormous, intricately sculptured temples adorned by vignettes of passion, eroticism, dance, music and creative pursuits. Historical records note that the Khajuraho temple site had 85 temples by 12th century. Of these, only about 20 temples have survived. Out of which the western Temple complex is the largest and best known. Later on arrival, transfer to your hotel. Balance day is at leisure. Dinner & Overnight stay.

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast & Lunch

Morning after Breakfast proceed for Half Day guided sightseeing tour of the Western Group of Temples, containing the magnificent Shaivite temple Kandariya Mahadeva. Khajuraho’s art is a manifestation of the essence of the philosophy of Indian aesthetics. The erotic sculptures depicting Kama Sutra are unique in the world. These sculptures representing the Indo-Aryan architecture, congeal in stone a lyrical paean to love and passion and reflect the Chandela dynasty's passion and immense appreciation for the forbidden art, paradoxically, in the land of Kama Sutra. They cannot be passed off as just erotic sculptures; the temples have some of the most revered Gods of Hinduism.

Some of the other famous temples you will see in the complex are the Lakshmana & the Vishwanath Temple. In every temple, there is the depiction of royalty, armies, wrestling, kinship, war, courtship, marriage, lovemaking, music and dancing, spiritual teachings, union, meditation, bliss, plants, gods, goddesses, animals and an abundance of all human forms.

Return to your hotel for early Lunch (on own expense). Later in time, transfer to Khajuraho Airport to board the Jet air flight at 1405 hrs to Varanasi. Later on arrival at 1455 hrs you are greeted and escorted by our Varanasi associate’s representative to your waiting car for transfer to your Hotel. (Flight timings are subject to change)

En-route to the hotel, we take a slight detour to visit the ancient city of Sarnath where Buddhism first made its appearance nearly 2500 years ago and where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to his 5 disciples. Visit the Chowkhandi Stupa, 46 m high Dhamek Stupa & the Dharmarajik Stupa built by Emperor Ashok around 258 BC. See the 20 m high Ashok Pillar, which still exists today. Also visit the museum before continuing your journey to Varanasi hotel. On arrival complete check in formalities.

Evening ride on cycle rickshaws’ to the Ghats to witness Aarti (Puja) ceremony performed at the Ghats, of the Ganges River. Return to your hotel for overnight stay.

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Early morning before sunrise, transfer to the Ghats to take an unforgettable boat ride on the Ganges. Since time immemorial, millions of pilgrims arrive every year in Banaras, in search of salvation in the waters of the holy river Ganges. At the crack of dawn, they become a thousand spots of color bathed in the golden waters of the Ganges. The scene on the bathing Ghats is quite fascinating to the western eye. Yogis meditate in impossible positions. Brahmins sit under mushroom-like umbrellas, to bless everyone for a fee. Men and women in various stages of wetness reverently launch little oil-lamps on to the water. Bursts of religious song mingle with the tolling of temple bells, and the rhythmic beat of washer men pounding the city’s laundry. Cruise past different Ghats built by kings and noblemen and the burning Ghats, and watch sunrise before returning to hotel for Breakfast.

After Breakfast, proceed for Half Day guided sightseeing tour of the Varanasi. This ancient city situated on the banks of river Ganges, in the State of Uttar Pradesh is believed to be more than 2500 years old and is the only city in the world that is still flourishing in its full form. Earlier known as Kashi, which finds mention in the ancient Indian texts of Upanishads and Puranas, Varanasi is believed to have been established by King Kashya in around 1200 BC.

A guided visit takes you to see the Banaras Hindu University campus commonly referred to as BHU; formerly known as Central Hindu College, is a public central university and is one of the largest residential universities in Asia, with over 20,000 students. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhawan- a museum
of international importance. Next visit the Temples of Bharat Mata; Kashi Vishwanath (Shiva) also called the golden temple and Durga Mata. Wander in the narrow by lanes of the old town before returning to your hotel for Lunch. (Please note Foreigners are not permitted inside Kashi Vishwanath Temple)

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, time free for own activities. Later on time transfer to Varanasi Airport to board your Indigo flight at 1450 hrs for Mumbai. Later on arrival at 1715 hrs, meeting, assistance and transfer to your pre booked Hotel. Balance day at leisure. Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast is reserved for half day guided excursion to Elephanta Caves. Drive to the boat jetty located at Gateway of India and board a motorized steamer boat for a sea excursion to the ancient rock cut Elephanta Island.

The island, located on an arm of the Arabian Sea, consists of two groups of caves—the first is a large group of five Hindu caves and the second is a smaller group of two Buddhist caves. The Hindu caves contain rock cut stone sculptures, representing the Shaiva Hindu sect, dedicated to the Lord Shiva. The rock cut architecture of the caves has been dated to between the 5th and 8th centuries, although the identity of the original builders is still a subject of debate. The caves are hewn from solid basalt rock. All the caves were also originally painted in the past, but now only traces remain.

Return to hotel for fresh & change and transfer to the domestic airport to board Jet Airways flight at 1625 hrs to Goa. On arrival at Dabolim Airport at 1800 hrs, meet & greet and transfer to your hotel. Balance day is at leisure. Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast proceed for Half day guided sightseeing tour of Old Goa a verdant natural paradise bounded on the one side by the foothills of the Sahyadri range and on the other by the Arabian Sea. It is a former Portuguese enclave and is a prominent place to travel. The allure of Goa is that it remains quite distinct from the rest of India and is small enough to be grasped and explored in a way that other Indian states are not. The region's easygoing ambience, good food, and salubrious winter climate have made it one of the most popular spots in South Asia.

Goa is famous for its white sand beaches, mesmeric sunsets, and for people of Goa for their tolerant behavior and finesse in etiquettes. It is also famous for its scenic beauty and the architectural splendors in its temples and churches. The old adage is true: Living in Goa is a 365-day vacation. Beaches, scenic sunsets, historical forts and an easygoing life make Goa one of the best beach destinations in India. Visit Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church which was one of the first churches to be built in Goa. It is said to have been built around 1541 AD. Also visit Churches of Old Goa (Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and others, Panjim city, Altinho and Dona Paula viewpoint. Return to hotel. Afternoon is free for personal activities. Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast day is at leisure for own activities. A Day to write your memoirs, drink a margarita by the poolside, read a book, get a sun tan, laze around on the beach, or simply go shopping. Overnight stay

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, time free for own activities. Later on time transfer to Dabolim Airport to board your Indigo flight at 1740 hrs for Mumbai. On arrival at 1910 hrs at domestic terminal in Mumbai, meeting, assistance and transfer to Mumbai International airport to board your onward flight to your next destination.

END OF OUR SERVICES - We sincerely hope that you had an “incredible” experience while in India and take this opportunity to wish you a happy & memorable journey back home.

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast