Classical India and Nepal

A perfect introduction to India with the addition of Nepal, this journey is for the first time visitor to the region. Starting with Delhi, where the trip takes one through a veritable assortment of historical monuments, many designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then on to Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’ and the capital of Rajasthan, where one encounters majestic forts and palaces, rich in history and culture as also a great shopping destination. Agra is the leg that completes the Golden Triangle of India with its romantic Taj Mahal – a true gift of love. While the history of Agra is brought to life by its monuments, the culture is represented by its fabulous food.

The journey continues to the lesser known but more exotic Gwalior, which is home to one of India’s largest forts. Continue to Khajuraho to see the distinctive Kandariya Mahadeo temple, covered in bas relief and also have the opportunity to go on a tiger safari. The India portion ends in Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world. Experience a beautiful evening prayer and learn about Hinduism and Buddhism. The journey ends in Kathmandu, to the call of the mountains. Enjoy a scenic Everest flight, explore the Darbar squares, and see the enormous Boudhnath Stupa.

Highlights

• Jama Masjid, India’s largest and Delhi’s most spectacular mosque; Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone
• ‘Chandini Chowk’, bazaar since the Mughal era; Khari Baoli, the largest spice market; Mahatma Gandhi’s Memorial at Rajghat
• Qutub Minar, the tallest minaret in India built in the 12th Century, inscribed with Koranic verses; Humayun’s Tomb, the mausoleum commissioned by his wife
• Drive through Lutyen’s Delhi, past India Gate
• City Tour of Jaipur, shopping places, museums; Amber Fort; Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds); City Palace with museums; Jantar Mantar with a collection of astronomical instruments to measure time, predict eclipses and tracking stars, all in working condition
• Chand Baori, one of India’s largest and deepest step wells, in the town of Abhaneri
• Taj Mahal at sunrise, magical effects of natural light onto the white marble structure
• Agra Fort, spread over a mile and a half, along the banks of the Yamuna River, the fort houses various palaces, gardens and places of worship
• Itmad – ud – daulah – this monument is considered the draft for the Taj Mahal
• Gwalior Fort and its various palaces and temples within; enormous Jain statues, Man Singh’s Palace with its amazing lapis work; 11th century Sas Bahu (mother-daughter in law) temples and the marriage temple of Teli-ka-Mandir
• Drive through Panna National Park
• Kandariya Mahadeo Temple in Khajuraho; Eastern and  Western Group of Temples;
• Boat ride on the River Ken -The setting sun brings with it all manner of birdlife – the magnificent Indian eagle owl, the sarus cranes, the occasional crocodile
• Sunrise cruising on the Ganges to watch spirituality in motion; Kashi Vishwanath Temple; Sarnath, where Buddha first preached, Dhamekh Stupa, which houses a museum on Buddha; Ghats in the evenings, with evening prayer ceremony at Dashashwamedha ghat