Best of India and Nepal
Covered : Delhi - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer - Nimaj - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Amritsar - Kathmandu - PokharaGet ready to explore the bustling markets of Delhi, magnificent forts of Jaipur and Jaisalmer, historical attractions of Amritsar, exotic wildlife at Ranthambore and temples of Kathmandu. India has all this and much more to offer to its visitors. This 21-day meticulously-planned journey covers the real beauty of India along with the authentic cultural experience of Nepal. Taking you through two immensely beautiful countries- India and Nepal, which allure tourists from all over the world. This is a journey of a lifetime that makes you explore diverse cultures, histories and traditions. Every destination covered in this itinerary showcases some uniqueness which makes you come back again and again.
Day 1: Arrival at Delhi
On reaching Delhi, meet our LuxoIndia representative who assists while you take a transfer to the airport.
Delhi is a bundle of fun, life and excitement. The beauty of this capital city lies in its diverse ethnicity, culture, food and language.
The city perfectly preserves the glorious past of India in its historical attractions. This is why, Delhi is known to feature a great blend of history and modernity.
Delhi is a destination for every kind of traveler. It has everything, right from ancient temples, historical monuments to nightclubs and shopping malls.
Delhi boasts of the best architectural marvels of India. There are a number of structures which date back to the British and Mughal era. Some major attractions of Delhi include Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Jantar Mantar, Lotus Temple, India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Complete the check-in formalities on reaching the hotel and take some rest. You can go for a walk around the place in late evening. Stay overnight in the hotel.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Delhi
Munch some healthy breakfast at the hotel and then get ready for a guided tour of Old Delhi.
Begin with a visit to Raj Ghat and pay homage to the Father of Nation - Mahatma Gandhi, who was cremated here. The memorial speaks of the simplicity of Mahatma Gandhi and his dedication to change the world with his powerful ideas.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Red Fort is an old Mughal structure made entire of red stone. Red Fort is a must-visit for those who wish to flip back the pages of the bygone Mughal Era. This is the same place from where the prime minister addresses the nation on Independence day (15 August) every year.
Walk through the overcrowded markets of old Delhi and taste your treat buds with delicious snacks. Don't miss taking a rickshaw ride through the city.
One of the largest mosques in Asia, Jama Masjid is a revered place for the worshippers of Islam. The magnificent structure is known for its architectural beauty. There is much to explore in this beautiful attraction which speaks about the past Mughal era.
The famous market of Chandni Chowk is located nearby, which dates back to the 17th century. Shop for clothes, jewelry and other items from this bustling market. Enjoy sweets from the popular sweetshops of Chandni Chowk.
Enjoy your lunch and then leave for a sightseeing tour of New Delhi. Built back in the year 1930, New Delhi was the imperial capital of the British.
Start with a visit to Qutub Minar, which is the tallest stone tower in India. 73 m high, this tall structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Qutub Minar is considered one of the finest examples of structures left in Delhi by the pre-Mughal dynasties. Qutub Minar complex houses many more buildings other than Qutub Minar. These include Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Iron Pillar, Ala'i-Darwaza, Alai' Minar and the tomb of Iltutmish.
Visit India Gate, one of the most prominent attractions of Delhi. The memorial commemorates 90,000 soldiers of the British Indian Army who lost their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. The structure is made using red and slightly pale sandstone and granite which adds to its magnificent look.
Also visit the Parliament House, which is the seat of the world's largest democracy and Rastrapati Bhawan, Indian President's official residence. Near these attractions, there is the famous Mughal Gardens which features beautiful fountains and well-manicured lawns. These gardens are open to the public during spring season.
Lotus Temple is another major attraction of Delhi city. The temple is considered a great place for meditation and is open to people of all faiths.
Later, reach the hotel and relax in the evening.
Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Delhi - Jodhpur By flight | Jodhpur - Jaisalmer By Road
Have your breakfast and then leave for the airport for your flight to Jodhpur. On reaching Jodhpur, start driving towards Jaisalmer. Check in at your luxurious camp.
Also known as the 'Golden City', Jaisalmer is a beautiful city in Rajasthan. Every corner of the city speaks much about the royal medieval era and its historic importance. Jaisalmer holds an important position in history of India because of its rich cultural heritage and ethnicity. The city is dotted with a number of beautiful palaces, fortresses and temples which were built long back by the Rajputs.
The annual desert fair is the star attraction of the city and it allures tourists from all over the world. This colorful and lively festival features a number of competitions, camel shows and came rides which promise an experience of a lifetime to every visitor.
Check-in at the hotel and spend the evening at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 4: Jaisalmer
This morning, after having your breakfast, go for a full day sightseeing tour of The Golden City - Jaisalmer. Set in the heart of the Great Indian Desert, Jaisalmer is well-known for its temples, forts and palaces.
Begin with a visit to the Jaisalmer Fort which is the oldest living forts in the world.
The fort houses one fourth of the entire population of the city. Built using yellow sandstone, Jaisalmer Fort looks like a ship in the golden sandy land from far. The sunrise and sunset add new colors to the strong walls of the fort, making it more alluring.
There are a number of entrance gates to the fort including Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol.
There are a number of havelis and Jain temples inside the fort which date back to the 12th to 15th centuries. These Jain temples are dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Sambhavnathji. The interiors of the temples are beautifully carved. There is Gyan Bhandar, a library, within the temple complex which is known to have some old manuscripts.
There a number of eateries in the fort which serve dishes from Italian, French, and native cuisines.
Nathmal Ki Haveli:
Nathmal Ki Haveli was once the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, who was the Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. The haveli was constructed back in the year 19th century. There is an interesting story behind the construction of the haveli is that it was built by two architect brothers, who began the construction from both the sides at the same time. The star attraction of the haveli is the big elephants carved out of yellow stone and beautifully done exteriors and interiors.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli:
Salim Singh ki Haveli was built back 300 years ago by Salim Singh, Prime Minister of Jaisalmer when it was the capital of the princely state. The haveli features beautiful arched roofs in the shape of a peacock.
Patwon Ji Ki Haveli
One of the largest havelis and oldest in Jaisalmer, Patwon Ji Ki Haveli is truly an architectural marvel. The main highlight of the haveli is that it is not a single haveli but a cluster of 5 different havelis. Extensively carved, this haveli is divided into six apartments. One can find some remnants of paintings and mirror work on the inside walls of the haveli.
Tazia Tower
Showcasing the craftsmanship of Muslim artisans, Tazia Tower is a beautiful five storied structure which features various balconies. These balconies are intricately designed which adds to the mesmerizing look of the tower.
Godi Sagar Lake
One of the most popular attractions of Jaisalmer, Godi Sagar Lake is a beautiful place known to offer a serene ambiance to relax. In the olden days, Godi Sagar Lake was the only source of water in Jaisalmer. This is why the lake holds much historical importance. The lake is now a great location for bird watchers because of migratory birds. Tourists can also enjoy boat ride at the lake.
Sundowner at the Dunes Along With Bush Dinner
It now time to enjoy the breathtaking sunset at private sand dunes. Later, depart for the camp and en-route enjoy the views of the endless stretch of the desert. You may get to spot Chinkara and Blue bull if you are lucky. On reaching the camp, enjoy a walk around the area.
Enjoy your exclusive Bush dinner under the starlit sky of the Thar Desert. Treat your taste buds with dishes from the Rajasthani cuisine along with the melody of local musicians. Stay overnight at camp.
Day 5: Jaisalmer - Nimaj (Chattra Sagar) By Road
After having your breakfast, leave for Nimaj (Chhatra Sagar).
Nimaj is a small town which is a popular stop over on the Jodhpur - Ajmer - Jaipur Route. The main attraction of the place is Nimaj Palace. The palace was originally built as the residential palace of the royal family of Nimaj. Later, the palace was converted in to a heritage hotel.
Chhatra Sagar is a beautiful reservoir set amid two hillocks. The lake was built as a summer retreat, surrounded by lush green lawns and trees. The attraction is a popular boating and angling spot. Chhatra Sagar is a great destination for nature lovers and those who wish to spend some time in tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Chhatra Sagar is a popular camping site and people from all over visit the place to enjoy camping. Camping at this site offers every tourist with a unique experience of rural Rajasthan.
Enjoy sunrise and sunset, spot rare birds, go for nature walks, soak in the fresh air and enjoy local music around the bonfire. Don't miss tasting some really delicious Indian and traditional Rajasthani dishes cooked using farm fresh vegetables in the family kitchen.
Enjoy your stay at beautifully designed tented accommodation. Every tent offers the best facilities right from attached bathrooms to a private sit outs.
Stay overnight at the camp.
Day 6: Nimaj – Jaipur by Road
Have your breakfast in the morning and then leave for your next destination, Jaipur. On reaching Jaipur, check-in at the hotel.
Also knows as the Pink City, Jaipur is the capital city of the state of Rajasthan. This ancient city is believed to be India's first planned city as per 'vastushastra'.
Dotted with a number of forts, palaces, historic structures, gardens and markets, Jaipur is the star attraction of Rajasthan. The heartwarming hospitality of the locals adds to the visiting experience.
Jaipur allures tourists from all over the world due with its historic heritage and rich culture. Major attractions of Jaipur include Amber Fort, Ganesh Pol, Sheesh Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, Nahargarh Fort. Jaipur is also a great destination for adventure enthusiasts as it offers a wide variety of adventure sports like paragliding, rock climbing, hot air ballooning and camel riding. Jaipur is also known for its colorful fairs and festivals.
In the evening, visit the famous Birla Temple which is a part of one of the many Birla Temples in India.
Also known as Laxmi Narayan Temple, Birla Temple was built in the year 1985 and is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Narayan. The beauty of the temple lies in the intricate carvings on the walls and pillars of the temple. Attend the Aarti ceremony which includes lighting of oil lamps in order to awake and invoke the deity.
Later, head back to the hotel and stay overnight.
Day 7: Jaipur
After having your breakfast, leave for a full day sightseeing tour of Jaipur.
Begin with a visit to the Amber fort Palace.
Amber Fort Palace
One of the oldest and most popular forts of Jaipur, Amber Fort Palace was built back in 1592 by Raja Man Singh. The fort features a blend of Mughal and Hindu style of architecture. There are a number of buildings inside the fort palace including 'Diwan-i-Aam', 'Sheesh Mahal' and 'Sukh Mahal'. The fort also has a temple dedicated to Shila Devi. 'Ganesh Pol' is a huge gate which leads to the private palaces of the kings.
City Palace
Featuring a blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace is the most beautiful palace complex of Jaipur.
The palace complex is known to house a number of gardens, museums and galleries which speak loud of the India's glorious past. The two main structures within the complex are Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal. There are a number of museums and art galleries in the complex which preserve valuable items from the bygone era. One important highlight of the palace is the beautifully decorated gateways. There are three main entry gates to the complex, which are Udai Pol, Virendra Pol and Tripolia Gate. People from all across the world visit the palace to explore its enthralling beauty of the palace.
Jantar Mantar
One of the largest and best preserved observatories in India, Jantar Mantar is an observatory having outsized astronomical instruments. Built by Jai Singh II, Jantar Mantar is a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments. These instruments make one observe astronomical positions with naked eye. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features the largest stone sundial in the world.
Hawa Mahal
Also known as the 'Palace Of The Winds', Hawa Mahal is one of the top tourist attractions of Jaipur. Set in the center of the city, Hawa Mahal is a five-storey palace which was constructed back in the year 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The main highlight of Hawa Mahal is its pyramid shape, Rajputana architecture and those 953 windows which feature intricate designs.
After sightseeing at these top tourist attractions, go for shopping at the bustling markets of Jaipur. Enjoy shopping from a wide variety of gold and silver jewelry, tie-dye materials, saris, carpets and wooden handicrafts. Later, spend some time at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 8: Jaipur
Enjoy your breakfast and then leave for a sightseeing tour to the royal village Samode. Set at a distance of around 42 km from Jaipur, Samode is a small village well-known for housing the famous Samode Palace. A visit to this village offers an opportunity to experience authentic rural life and gain knowledge about our age old culture and tradition.
Built around 175 years back, Samode Palace is one of the most enthralling structures of Rajasthan. The haveli speaks much about the class and elegance of the royals. The structure has now been converted into a heritage hotel which offers a luxurious and comfortable stay to all the guests.
Enjoy musical evening of the folk dances and music at Samode village. Walk through the beautiful village of Samode and explore everything about Rajasthani culture. Enjoy a camel ride.
Return to the hotel and stay overnight.
Day 9: Jaipur - Ranthambore by Road
This morning, after having your breakfast, start driving towards Ranthambore. On reaching, check-in at your hotel.
One of the largest national parks in India, Ranthambore National Park covers a wide area of 392 km². The park is named after Ranthambore fort which is located within the park. Ranthambore wildlife sanctuary is best known for its tigers which can be spotted anytime in the park. Other than tigers, main species found in the park are leopard, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, hyena, sloth bear and chital. The sanctuary is home to a number of trees, plants, birds and reptiles.
Padam Talao is a popular highlight of the park as it is one of the largest lakes in the park. At the edge of the lake, there is Jogi Mahal made of red sandstone. There is a huge banyan tree near the lake which is considered India's second largest banyan tree.
Also visit Ranthambore Fort which stands right atop a hill overlooking the entire sanctuary. The fort offers a spectacular view of the national park and its surroundings. The fort displays the rich past of the place through its architecture.
Return to the resort for dinner. Have a comfortable overnight stay at the resort.
Day 10: Ranthambore
This morning, wake up early and go for a safari top the Ranthambore National Park. Spot the Tigers and other wildlife and take back a memorable experience. Later, return to the hotel and enjoy delicious breakfast.
After you freshen up, spend some time at leisure. You can enjoy a stroll around the place or visit the temple located on the top of the fort.
In the afternoon, enjoy your lunch and then leave for afternoon safari. Enjoy the safari till evening and then return to the resort.
Enjoy your dinner and enjoy overnight stay at the resort.
Day 11: Ranthambore
Get ready to enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife safari.
After enjoying safari at Ranthambore National Park, return to the hotel and spend some time at leisure. Enjoy a comfortable night stay.
Day 12: Ranthambore - Delhi By Train | Delhi - Amritsar By flight
This morning you take a transfer to the railway station for your train to Delhi. Enjoy breakfast on board in the train.
On reaching Delhi, take a transfer to the airport for your flight to Amritsar. After you reach Amritsar, check in at your hotel.
One of the most ancient and sacred cities of India, Amritsar is well-known for housing the most prominent Gurdwara- Harmandir Sahib, also known as Golden Temple. The city is centre of Sikh history and culture. Other than the famous golden temple, Amritsar is home to a number of historical Gurudwaras which hold immense religious significance.
Amritsar holds a lot of historical importance because it has witnesses some major incidents of India's freedom struggle like the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919 which took place at Jallianwala Bagh. Other attractions of the city include Bathinda Fort,Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Khair-ud-Din Masjid and Gobindgarh Fort.
Enjoy overnight stay in Amritsar.
Day 13: Amritsar
Munch some healthy breakfast and then leave for a full day sightseeing tour of Amritsar. Begin with a visit to the much revered Golden Temple. Later, visit the famous Wagah Border.
Golden Temple
Also known as Golden Temple, Shri Harmandir Sahib is one of the most important religious sites for the Sikhs. The Gurdwara is open to people from all religions, which is why it is considered a symbol of equality and brotherhood. People from all over the country and the world visit the Gurdwara to seek blessings. The Gurudwara is set amid the beautiful Amrit Sarovar where people take a holy bath. The water of the Sarovar is believed to possess healing powers. Featuring an amalgam of different architectural styles, Golden Temple has verses from the revered Guru Granth Sahib inscribed on its doorways. Golden Temple is a beautiful place where you can spend some time amid a tranquil and soothing ambiance. Upper floors of the temple are entirely made of gold which is why it is the Golden Temple.
Wagah Border
The star attraction of Amritsar, Wagah Border is the international border between India and Pakistan. It is the only road border between the two countries. Wagah Border is located at a distance of 22 km from Lahore and 28 km from Amritsar.
The place holds immense national significance, which is why people from all over visit the place with lot of patriotism and enthusiasm. Every day, before sunset, a ceremony happens where flags are simultaneously lowered by the two countries. The ceremony ends when the flags are folded and soldiers shake hands and this is followed by the closing of the gates.
After sightseeing at all these attractions, return to the hotel. Stay overnight in Amritsar.
Day 14: Amritsar - Delhi By flight | Delhi - Kathmandu By flight
Have your breakfast at the hotel and then take a transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu via Delhi.
Capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is the cultural and political hub of Nepal. The city is best known to display the rich art, culture and tradition of Nepal. The city is popular for its religious sites like Hindu centers and Buddhist Centers. Kathmandu features a blend of Buddhism, Hinduism and Tantrism in its culture. The architectural beauty of Kathmandu is categorized under popular seven groups of heritage monuments and buildings. These seven groups of monuments have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Seven Monument Zones include Hindu temples of Pashupatinath and Changunarayan, Durbar squares of Hanuman Dhoka, Patan and Bhaktapur, the Buddhist stupas of Swayambhu and Boudhanath.
On reaching Kathmandu, check-in at your hotel. Spend this evening at leisure.
Stay overnight at leisure.
Day 15: Kathmandu
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel.
You can go for an early morning Everest Flight and a spectacular view of the majestic Himalayas and the Mount Everest.
Begin your sightseeing tour with a visit to the famous Pashupatinath Temple. Later, visit Swayambhunath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.
Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Nepal. The temple is one of the oldest temples in Kathmandu. Featuring Pagoda style of architecture, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Around 300 years old, Pashupatinath Temple is well-known for its beautiful architecture. The roofs and entrance gates of the temple are decorated with gold and silver.
Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is a popular pilgrim destination in Nepal. Though the temple is believed to be Buddhist, people from all faiths visit the temple to seek blessings. According to some historical records found on a stone inscription, it is believed that the stupa is an important pilgrim destination from 5th century AD. Today, the temple holds much importance because it brings together people of different faiths together under one roof.
Visit Boudhanath Stupa which is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhism center in the world. Considered one of the oldest and biggest Buddhist monuments in Nepal, Boudhanath Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After sightseeing at these pilgrim sites, head back to the resort. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 16: Kathmandu
After having your breakfast at hotel, leave for a full day visit of Patan & Bhaktapur.
Patan is one of the three beautiful cities of Nepal. Patan is well-known for its metal statues, ornate architecture and stone carvings. Patan is dotted with a number of Buddhist and Hindu temples. People from all over visit the city to explore its rich culture and know more about its arts and handicrafts. Major attractions of the city include Patan Museum, Patan Darbar Square, Hanuman Dhoka and Dakshinkali Temple.
Known by different names like the 'Nepal's Cultural Gem', 'City of Devotees', the 'City of Culture' and the 'Living Heritage', Bhaktapur is one of the 3 royal cities in Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur is known for its historical monuments, palaces and temples. Also, the city is dotted with a number of pagodas and religious shrines. Bhaktapur is set amid the ancient trade route between India and Tibet. It offers spectacular views of the Himalayas.
After sightseeing at the attractions of the two cities, head back to Kathmandu. Have a comfortable stay overnight.
Day 17: Kathmandu - Pokhara By local flight
This morning, have your breakfast at the hotel and then take a transfer to the airport. Take a flight to the beautiful valley of Pokhara.
Pokhara is the tourist capital of Nepal. This beautiful and tranquil destination is perfect for those who wish to take a break from the daily hustle and bustle of life and spend some great time close to nature. Pokhara is best known for its treks, the main one being the Annapurna circuit. The destination is all around surrounded by serene lakes and high mountain peaks which add to its charm.
On reaching Pokhara, take a transfer to the hotel, relax for some time and then step out to explore the alluring beauty of the city.
Stay overnight in Pokhara.
Day 18: Pokhara
Begin this morning with a visit to Sarangkot and experience a sunrise like never before. One of the popular destinations of Nepal, Sarangkot is a beautiful village, well-known for its breathtaking sunrise. The village offers a panoramic view of the Himalayas. Spend some time close to nature and take back a memorable experience.
Return to the hotel for breakfast. Take some rest and then leave for your Pokhara sightseeing tour. Begin with a visit to Devi's fall. Also known as Patale Chhango, Devi's fall is a beautiful waterfall. The serenity and beauty of the place is truly unmatched and tourists from all over visit here for an outing.
Visit old Pokhara Bazaar, which is a traditional bazaar known for an ethnically diverse group of traders. The bazaar is dotted with a number of temples and monuments which look similar to that of Kathmandu. Seek blessings at one of the most important shrines of Old Pokhara Bazaar- Bindhyabasini Mandir, which is a white dome-like structure located at the top of a hill.
Enjoy your lunch and then explore every nook of the city with a long drive. Drive past the beautiful Begnas Lake and Rupa Lake, located 15 Km from Pokhara. Let this nature retreat make you feel relaxed. Enjoy some time amid tranquility.
In the end of this Pokhara trip, pay homage at the Tibetan Monastery.
Return to the hotel and stay overnight.
Day 19: Pokhara - Kathmandu By local flight
After having your breakfast, take a transfer to the airport. Board your flight to Kathmandu. On reaching, check in to your hotel.
Leave for your short trek trip to Dhulikhel.
Set on the outer border of the Kathmandu Valley, Dhulikhel is a beautiful destination known to offer a spectacular view of the Himalayas. Trek through those great trekking trails and enjoy the beautiful view of the mountains. Let that soothing breeze caress your face and take away all the stress.
After this mini sightseeing and trekking tour, head back to the hotel in Kathmandu.
Stay overnight.
Day 20: Kathmandu
This morning, have your breakfast at the hotel. Later, go for a short sightseeing tour of Kathmandu.
Start with a visit to the Kathmandu Durbar Square which is the plaza set in front of the old royal palace of the then Kathmandu Kingdom. Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. All the three Durbar Squares are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Durbar Square features spectacular architecture and speaks loud about the skills of Newar artists and craftsmen. Kathmandu Durbar Square houses palaces of the Malla and Shah Kings who were the rulers of who ruled over the city.
This palace complex is locally known as Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex and there is a huge Royal Square which has a number of temples dedicated to different Hindu gods and goddess. Most of the buildings located within the complex date from 15th to 18th century. Major monuments in the complex are Taleju Temple, Kumari Ghar, Kal Bhairav and Jagannath Temple.
There is a huge stone statue of Hanuman painted in red standing at the main entrance of the palace.
Hanuman here is regarded as a powerful protector of the entire Durbar Square.
In the evening, get ready to enjoy a local dance program, followed by an authentic Nepali dinner at the cultural centre.
Return to the hotel and stay overnight.
Day 21: Kathmandu - Delhi - Departure By flight
This is the last day of the tour. Enjoy delicious breakfast at the hotel. Take a transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. On reaching Delhi, enjoy shopping at the popular markets of Delhi.
Enjoy your dinner at the restaurant of your hotel. Later, you will be transferred to the hotel as per your flight timings. On reaching the airport, take flight for your onward journey with sweet memories of the tour.
The tour ends here.
