zIndia & Nepal Discovery

You’ll be warmly greeted upon arrival and escorted by private car to the 5-star ITC Maurya Hotel in the sophisticated center of New Delhi.

Today’s private sightseeing begins in New Delhi as you drive along the Rajpath past the India Gate, Presidential Palace  and Parliament. Continue to Old Delhi to marvel at the imposing façade of the magnificent Red Fort and visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Then hop aboard a traditional pedicab to explore the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, home to Asia’s biggest spice market as well as numerous other vendor stalls selling everything from gold and silver ornaments to exotic tropical produce.

Then get a glimpse into India’s cultural diversity at Bangla Sahib, India’s largest Sikh temple. Before returning to your hotel, you’ll also visit two of the city’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Humayun’s Tomb and Qutab Minar with its graceful 12th-century minaret. This evening’s dinner at one of our favorite city restaurants features traditional north Indian cuisine.  Meals B,D

Travel through the colorful Rajasthani countryside to Jaipur, founded in 1727 and fondly known as the Pink City. Upon arrival, you’ll be assisted with your check in to the lavish ITC Rajputana Hotel. This evening, enjoy a private guided stroll through a bustling city market and learn how to don a traditional saree and turban.  Meals B

Just as royalty would have done centuries ago, you’ll go to the Amber Palace for a tour of this grand monument, a legacy of the never-conquered Rajput Kingdom. Marvel at its lavish courtyards, beautifully decorated halls and the remarkable Chamber of Mirrors. Then visit the City Palace Museum, home to an extensive collection of miniature paintings, ancient weapons and traditional Rajasthani Royal costumes. You’ll also see the oft-photographed Palace of  Winds and visit Jantar Mantar, an accurate observatory built in 1726.  Meals B

Explore the “ghost town” of Fatehpur Sikri, built and mysteriously abandoned in the 16th century. Still in pristine condition, your private tour makes it easy to imagine the grandeur of Indian court life long ago. Then continue to Agra and check in to the 5-star ITC Mughal Hotel. Meals B

Arise early this morning for a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, an unforgettable experience as the sun casts its first light upon the iridescent marble of this monument to love. Later, you’ll enjoy an extensive private tour of the palatial Agra Fort, begun by Emperor Akbar in 1565. This evening, return to the Taj Mahal to watch as the setting sun seems to magically change the hues of its pearly white façade.  Meals B

After breakfast, transfer to the rail station to board the Shatabdi Express Train bound for Jhansi. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and taken to Orchha for a private tour of this important medieval city. After lunch, continue to Khajuraho and check in to the Taj Chandela Hotel.  Meals B,L

The astounding 10th-century temples of Khajuraho, many famously adorned with erotic carvings, are among India’s greatest architectural and artistic achievements. This morning, your private sightseeing tour will focus on the significant Western Group of Temples including the magnificent Kandariya Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Then transfer to the airport for your included flight to Varanasi where you’ll be met and escorted by private car to the Taj Gateway Hotel. Later in the afternoon, visit Sarnath where Buddha gave his first sermon. This evening, head to the banks of the sacred Ganges River with your private guide to witness the Aarti Ceremony, an ancient Hindu ritual of light and devotion.  Meals B

Enjoy a dawn boat ride on the Ganges as thousands of devotees descend to the holy waters for purification. Witnessing this daily ritual, which has unfolded here for centuries, is one of the most powerful and moving experiences you will ever have. Then visit the city’s most important shore temples before returning to your hotel. After a Yoga class on the lovely grounds of your hotel, the balance of your day is at leisure. Meals B

Transfer to the airport for your included flight to Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be met and escorted to the exceptional Hyatt Regency Hotel.  Meals B

Weather permitting, an early morning flight-seeing excursion offers inspiring views of Mt. Everest. After breakfast, your private sightseeing tour includes Durbar Square, the Mahadev & Parvati Temple and Hamuman Dhoka, the city’s ancient royal quarter. In the afternoon, travel through the Nepalese countryside to visit Patan, founded in 250 AD and famed for its traditional architecture. Many of the town’s ancient buildings are beautifully embellished with intricately carved windows and balconies. Meals B

Travel with your private car, driver and guide into the lovely Kathmandu Valley to explore ancient Bhadgaon, one of the three kingdoms of medieval Nepal. Then visit Bodhnath, the largest stupa in Nepal and venerated by both Tibetan and Nepalese Buddhists. Before returning to your hotel, stop along the River Bagmati to see Pashupatinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This evening’s dinner features traditional Nepalese cuisine and entertainment. Meals B,D

You’ll be escorted to the airport today for your included flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and driven to the ITC Maurya Hotel.  Meals B

A private car transfer brings you to the airport for your onward journey.  Meals B