Northern India & Nepal
This incredible tour takes you from high above the earth in the Himalaya Mountains to the Arabian Sea. Visit Nepal and discover Kathmandu and Bahktapur. Take in the awe-inspiring Mount Everest from a private plane. Search for tigers and white horned Rhinos in Nepal. In India explore the historic Delhi and Mumbai and view the stunning Taj Mahal.
The 17 day Northern India and Nepal tour from Tauck Tours is an Earth Journeys Tour in partnership with BBC Earth. Bring the destinations of your dreams to life in this collaborative tour that highlights everything you want from India and Nepal. You'll stay in the most amazing hotels, experience behind-the-scenes moments and take the travel tour experience to the next level with this Northern India and Nepal tour.
18 Days • fr. $12,990
Tour Includes
- On-tour film vignettes custom-made for Tauck by BBC Earth natural history experts plus other select BBC Earth touches
- Small group adventure averaging 20 guests per departure
- Stays at luxurious Oberoi hotels, in Delhi, Agra and Mumbai
- A morning visit to the Taj Mahal
- A three-night stay in Bandhavgarh National Park, one of India’s most important tiger reserves, and a two-night stay in Nepal's Chitwan National Park
- Flightseeing amidst the tallest mountains in the world, the Himalayas, for magnificent panoramic mountain views including Mount Everest
- A meditation lesson with local monks in Kathmandu
- A Q & A lecture with a sherpa who has climbed Mount Everest several times
- Learning the art of dressing in a sari and turban for a special dinner
- A visit to the timeless and vehicle-free Nepali city of Bhaktapur, with centuries-old squares where you will mingle with potters and woodcarvers
- An optional community service project in a remote village
- On-Tour Air (6 flights)
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
- All customary gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff, local guides and drivers are included.
Not Included
- The customary gratuity to the Tauck Director is not included. Gratuitites should be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group.
- All items of a personal nature (room service, beverages, telephone charges, laundry, dry cleaning, special food requests, etc.) and meals not specified on the tour itinerary are not included and must be paid by the client.
- Airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual train and airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included.
- All rates exclude airfare unless expressly noted.
Meal Inclusions
- 16 breakfasts
- 12 lunches
- 13 dinners
Hotel Details
- The Imperial Hotel in New Delhi, India (2 nights)
- Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu, Nepal (3 nights)
- Meghauli Serai in Chitwan National Park, Nepal (2 nights)
- Dwarika's Resort Dhulikhel in Dhulikhel, Nepal (1 night)
- The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra in Agra, India (2 nights)
- The LaLiT Temple View Khajuraho in Khajuraho, India (1 night)
- Mahua Kothi in Bandhavgarh National Park, India (3 nights)
- The Oberoi Mumbai Hotel in Mumbai (Bombay), India (2 nights)
Day 1
Arrive New Delhi Location Information Description
New Delhi, India
Tour begins: 2:00 PM, The Imperial, New Delhi. A transfer is included from Indira Gandhi International Airport to The Imperial, New Delhi. Most international flights arrive between 11:00 PM and 3:00 AM local time, 10 1/2 hours ahead of the U.S. (EST). To ease the effects of jet lag, consider traveling to India a day early; ask at booking. You'll enjoy a Heritage Room at your landmark hotel, an iconic 5-star property occupying the most distinguished address in the heart of the capital.
Your trip begins this afternoon with a welcome briefing, followed by a guided orientation tour of New Delhi including a drive through of Vijay Chowk, with views of the Secretariat buildings, Parliament House, the Presidential Palace and the India Gate, commemorating Indian and British soldiers.
Next, stop at the Gandhi Smriti Museum, paying tribute to the inspiring leader, Mahatma Gandhi, who forced change through non-violent protest, leading to an independent India in the late 1940s. Join us this evening for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner.
Dinner
THE IMPERIAL HOTEL, NEW DELHI
Day 2
Old Delhi, Past & Present Location Information Description
Delhi, India
Discover not one, but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites today as you explore the centuries-old history and culture of Old Delhi and environs.
Following a morning orientation tour of Old Delhi, visit Humayun’s Tomb, constructed for the Mughal Emperor Humayan and other members of his family in the 1570s, and set within beautiful gardens. The first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent and the first large structure of its kind built of red sandstone, this Mughal creation popularized Persian-influenced architecture in India, and was an inspiration for the Taj Mahal in Agra.
After lunch at a local restaurant, sightseeing continues as you marvel at the Qutb Minar Victory Tower, India’s tallest minaret, five stories high. A red sandstone tower built in 1193 and covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran, it is part of one of the earliest surviving mosque complexes in India. Return to your New Delhi hotel in late afternoon and spend the rest of the day and evening as you please.
Breakfast, Lunch
THE IMPERIAL HOTEL, NEW DELHI
Day 3
Yoga & a Flight to Kathmandu Location Information Description
Kathmandu, Nepal
If you like, enjoy a yoga class, then let your imagination take flight as you board a plane bound for Kathmandu in Nepal. Touch down for a three-night stay that celebrates the natural beauty and spiritual tapestry of this small mountainous country. Your family-run hotel has a rich tradition of hospitality. This evening, visit a renowned golden-roofed temple with silver doors that sits on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. Dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants tonight.
Breakfast, Dinner
DWARIKA'S HOTEL
Day 4
Himalayas Flightseeing and a Sherpa Location Information Description
Kathmandu, Nepal
Today your Nepal and India trip continues as you set off early this morning for spectacular flightseeing* above the Himalayan landscapes of Mount Everest – an unforgettable experience. Back on the ground in the Kathmandu Valley, explore Patan Durbar Square, where ancient temples and pagodas – both Buddhist and Hindu – are clustered around the old royal palace. Climb aboard for a rickshaw ride, if you like.
Lunch is served in a local restaurant. Before dinner tonight at your hotel, a Sherpa who’s climbed Mount Everest gives a talk followed by a Question & Answer session.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DWARIKA'S HOTEL
Day 5
Kopan Monastery & Boudhanath Location Information Description
Kathmandu, Nepal
On a lofty hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, adorned with colorful prayer flags, statuary and sacred art, Kopan Monastery draws seekers of spiritual enlightenment from all over the world.
Join the Tibetan Buddhist monks as they start their day with prayer and meditation (a ceremony of bells and chanting mantras) before paying a visit to the famous stupa (spiritual monument) of Boudhanath, built during the 5th century, a colossal spherical temple that represents the Mind of Buddha (from a tower his painted eyes keep watch over Kathmandu Valley). At least 29 monasteries surround this immense shrine adorned with prayer flags and prayer wheels, its structure reflecting the design of a mandala. After lunch, you'll arrive at your hotel where the rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Breakfast, Lunch
DWARIKA'S HOTEL
Day 6
Fly to Chitwan National Park Location Information Description
Chitwan National Park, Nepal
This morning fly to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the foothills of the Himalayas. The flora and fauna are particularly rich here. One of the few remaining populations of single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros lives in the park, and it’s also one of the last refuges of the Bengal tiger. After lunch at your lodge, go on a river safari by boat and enjoy a sundowner.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
MEGHAULI SERAI HOTEL
Day 7
Morning Safari & Bathing Elephants Location Information Description
Chitwan National Park, Nepal
In an open-topped vehicle, head into Chitwan National Park for a safari and picnic breakfast. Later, watch the elephants take a bath in the river – and interact with them! After lunch enjoy a free afternoon as you wish.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
MEGHAULI SERAI HOTEL
Day 8
Bhaktapur & a mountain resort in Dhulikhel Location Information Description
Chitwan National Park, Nepal, Nepal
Pack your bags for a morning flight back to Kathmandu. When you land, explore Bhaktapur, the third largest city in the valley, where cobblestone streets free from traffic make walking in this ancient, picturesque town of traditional art and architecture a pleasure. Its famous centuries-old craftsmanship continues; you will find potters, woodcarvers and weavers here as well as photogenic temples, courtyards and venerable squares, and you’ll have an opportunity to view their handiwork.
Location Information Description
Dhulikhel, Nepal
This afternoon, head to your resort in the town of Dhulikhel, where the views of the mountains might just leave you speechless. Dinner will be at your resort this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DWARIKA'S RESORT DHULIKHEL
Day 9
A Day in Dhulkiel Location Information Description
Dhulkiel, India
Today, you'll have the opportunity for a bit of rest and relaxation as you may indulge and enjoy the many amenities offered to you at your hotel. Tonight, a singing bowl demonstration and a cooking demonstration precedes dinner at the hotel.
Breakfast, Dinner
DWARIKA'S RESORT DHULIKHEL
Day 10
Fly to Delhi & on to Agra Location Information Description
Agra, India
A morning flight takes you back to Delhi followed by a drive to Agra, home to one of the world’s most famous edifices – and monuments to love – the Taj Mahal, built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, as a memorial to his wife. A perfectly symmetrical building, the monument’s marble relief work is inlaid with precious stones. Your stay at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra will take you back to a grand era of emperors. Dinner is at your choice of two of the hotel's fine restaurants tonight.
Breakfast, Dinner
THE OBEROI AMARVILAS AGRA
Day 11
The Taj Mahal & the Red Fort in Agra Location Information Description
Agra, India
This morning, explore the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a jewel of Muslim architecture renowned as one of the “wonders of the world,” on a sunrise visit or after you have breakfast – or both! Next up is a visit to the city of Agra and the 16th-century red sandstone Agra Fort, an enormous complex of fairy tale palaces and mosques once surrounded by a deep moat.
This evening’s Maharajah dinner will mean special preparations, with ladies being shown how to wear their choice of a traditional sari (with a delicate touch of henna painting), and the gentlemen putting on traditional turbans.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
THE OBEROI AMARVILAS AGRA
Day 12
The Temples of Khajuraho Location Information Description
Khajuraho, India
Take a train this morning from Agra to Jhansi followed by a drive to Khajuraho for an overnight stay. This small town is the site of a famous group of temples built between the 9th and 10th centuries by the Chandella Dynasty, praised by UNESCO for striking a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture; visit them today.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
THE LALIT TEMPLE VIEW KHAJURAHO HOTEL
Day 13
Bandhavgarh National Park Location Information Description
Bandhavgarh National Park, India
Drive to Bandhavgarh National Park, a wildlife reserve where leopards, deer, jungle cats, wild dogs, and tigers live – although it is very rare to spot the elusive tiger, a master of camouflage. After lunch embark on a jungle safari in an open-topped Jeep for a chance to catch sight of the wildlife. You’ll stay three nights in this remarkable park.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
MAHUA KOTHI HOTEL
Day 14
Into the heart of the Bandhavgarh Forest you go Location Information Description
Bandhavgarh National Park, India
At daybreak, drive with expert trackers into the heart of the Bandhavgarh Forest, one of India’s most scenic areas. Keep your camera handy – the wildlife at home here include tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boar, jackals and a variety of birds. A lecture on the ongoing tiger conservation efforts in India precedes lunch back at the lodge then another jungle safari. Enjoy dinner this evening at the hotel.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
MAHUA KOTHI HOTEL
Day 15
Game drives & lending a hand in a village Location Information Description
Bandhavgarh National Park, India
Enjoy a morning’s jungle safari drive in Bandhavgarh National Park; in the afternoon, you can choose between further exploration on another jungle excursion, or lending a hand with one of several ongoing community projects alongside village residents. Attend an interactive cooking demonstration prior to dinner at your hotel.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
MAHUA KOTHI HOTEL
Day 16
Welcome to Mumbai (Bombay) Location Information Description
Mumbai, India
Depart Bandhavgarh National Park this morning for a flight to Mumbai on the Arabian Sea. Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai today is India’s richest city: hip, multicultural, cosmopolitan, home to Bollywood and a thriving financial center. Arrive in Mumbai mid-afternoon, then take a brief guided orientation tour of landmark city sights en route to your oceanfront luxury hotel. Dinner is at leisure in the hotel tonight.
Breakfast, Dinner
THE OBEROI HOTEL MUMBAI
Day 17
Mumbai's grand gateway & heritage sites Location Information Description
Mumbai, India
Begin today's discovery of Mumbai, India's economic powerhouse, with a visit to the famed Gateway of India, a regal arch built to commemorate the 1911 visit of King George V and Queen Mary during the British Raj; this colossal waterfront monument is sometimes called “the Taj Mahal of Mumbai.” Explore the city's Heritage area, including a stop at the Baroque-style train station known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) and Central Railway Headquarters building – Mumbai's only UNESCO World Heritage Site – resplendent with vaulted roofs, arches, Gothic spires, flying buttresses, gables crowned by neoclassical sculptures, stone carvings, and friezes. After an afternoon spent as you please in marvelous Mumbai, join us for a farewell cocktail reception at your hotel this evening.
Breakfast, Lunch
THE OBEROI HOTEL MUMBAI
Day 18
Journey Home Location Information Description
Mumbai, India
Tauck's Nepal and Northern India trip ends: Mumbai. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from The Oberoi, Mumbai to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Most international flights depart between 2:00 – 3:00 AM; you should allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in.
Breakfast
Important information:
Important Information
Cancellation Policy
- 60 days or more before departure: $1,000.00 per person
- 59-8 days before departure: $1500.00 per person
- 7-1 days before departure: $2000.00 per person
- On departure day and later: 100% of total price
- Any changes or cancellations to airline reservations made through Tauck either before or after departure are subject to the cancellation / change policies of the individual airlines. In n some instances these cancellation / change fees may be up to 100% of the ticket price.
- Cancellation fees may also apply to any additional services, including extra night accommodations, independently supplied services, and optional excursions reserved prior to, during, and after the tour. If flight changes, including, but not limited to, flight cancellations or name changes, are requested after full land and air deposits are received, revision fees, change fees, or airline cancellation fees will apply.
- All cancellations must be received in writing prior to tour departure. The cancellation policy will apply according to the date that the cancellation notification is received. The MINIMUM cancellation penalty is the deposit amount.
- The purchase to trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.
Terms and Conditions
- Land only “from price” is per person based on two people sharing a room together and does not include airfare unless expressly stated.
- All prices are in US Dollars.
- A $1,000 non-refundable, non-transferable, per-person, per-vacation deposit is required to reserve space for you. Payment of the deposit indicates you have read and accepted all Terms & Conditions. Your booking is not confirmed until the deposit payment is processed and you receive a confirmation invoice.
- Final payment is due 75 days prior to departure. Within the final payment date, payment in full is required at time of booking to reserve space. Reservations (land, cruise, and air) are canceled if final payment is not received by the due date.
- Additional deposits or payments are required for international air added to the start and/or end of your vacation.