DAY 1, Friday - Depart for India
Depart for India
DAY 2, Saturday - Arrive in New Delhi
Welcome to India! Arrive in the energetic capital city of New Delhi; meet your representative and transfer to the hotel. Time to rest and relax after your journey and acclimate to the new time zone
Overnight: New Delhi
DAY 3, Sunday - Discover New Delhi
Begin your discovery of Delhi at the Gandhi Smriti (formerly Birla House), a museum dedicated to Gandhi, Father of the Nation. Then drive past the imposing India Gate war memorial, Presidential Palace, and Parliament House. Understand more about Sikh culture on your visit to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a prominent Sikh house of worship, with its shining golden dome dominating the skyline. After lunch at a popular restaurant, visit Old Delhi. Travel on a cycle rickshaw along the bustling main street of Chandni Chowk. Stop to photograph the imposing Red Fort before your visit to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, with a courtyard capable of holding over 25,000 devotees. After the city tour, visit the National Museum, the largest in India, with over 200,000 works of art, covering over 5,000 years. Afterward, a "tuk-tuk" (auto-rickshaw) takes you to your hotel. This evening, meet your fellow travelers and Tour Manager at a briefing on the remarkable experiences that await you, followed by a Welcome Dinner
Overnight: New Delhi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4, Monday - Travel to Agra
Depart New Delhi to Agra, with its enchanting past, rich heritage and architectural masterpieces. En route, visit the graceful Qutab Minar Victory Tower, the world's tallest minaret, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival in Agra, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy all of the delights of this splendid city. Tonight, celebrate "love" at an optional evening performance of Mohabbat-e-Taj a series of plays that portray the intense love of the Shah Jahan for his wife and depicts the lavish lifestyle of the Mughal era
Optional: Mohabbat-e-Taj Show (PM)
Overnight: Agra
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Tuesday - Visit the Amazing Taj Mahal
A memorable day as you visit the astonishing Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved Queen. This is perhaps the perfect architectural monument in the world, built of white marble and precious stones over a 22 year period - considered the finest example of Mughal architecture. Afterward, visit Kalakriti Marble. The Taj Mahal inspired the Kalakriti family to become the manufacturer of fine inlaid marble work. Marvel at the museum quality workmanship as you watch a demonstration of the timely process of marble carvings, filigree and stone inlay. Then browse Kalakriti’s home furnishings and decorative items. In the afternoon, discover the red sandstone Agra Fort, with its incredible maze of walled courtyards, mosques and lavish private chambers reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal Empire; this monument has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour continues to the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah built of the finest Indian marble embellished with mosaics and inlay of semi-precious stones. Tonight, an evening with a local Indian family in their home. Enjoy a traditional home-cooked Indian dinner, along with conversation about life in India today
Overnight: Agra
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6, Wednesday - Travel to Jaipur, Abhaneri Village
Depart Agra to the small ancient village of Abhaneri in northern Rajasthan. Begin at Chand Baori, one of the largest step wells in India, fortified on all sides. This unique idea, conceived by the early natives to function as a water reservoir, is located adjacent to the temple dedicated to Harshat Mata, goddess of joy and happiness. Then, stop for an unforgettable experience an authentic camel cart ride with lunch. Afterward, continue to Jaipur, gateway to the desert state of Rajasthan. Arrive in this glorious city, with its stucco buildings lining the wide streets and you'll understand why it is nicknamed the "Pink City." The city was painted its unique color in 1876 to celebrate the first visit of the Prince of Wales to Jaipur. Drive past stunning hilltop forts and glorious palaces en route to the hotel. Time to explore the bargain-filled bazaars bursting with treasures and jewelry shops galore, including Bhandari Jewelry: Jaipur’s centuries-old craft community, world-renowned for its quality and design. Bhandari Jewelry, third generation gemologists, offers a spectacular array of gems, available loose or uniquely set in gold and silver, plus local handicrafts, stone and marble carvings, and paintings. Shop to your heart's content, linger on your own or return to the hotel. Tonight, share a flavorful Jaipur dinner together with your fellow travelers
Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Thursday - Amber Fort and the Palace of Mirrors
This morning, an excursion to the spectacular Amber Fort, a stunning fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles with its gorgeous Palace of Mirrors, incredible maze of courtyards, and lavish private chambers reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Drive past the Hawa Mahal, the "Palace of the Winds" with its lacy ornamental façade. Arrive at the Amber Fort and ascend the hill to the ramparts by jeep, or on the back of an elephant (if available). From here, you can view the breathtaking panorama of Jaipur's original city walls and the lake below. Stop for refreshments before shopping the vast collection of local handicrafts at Jaipur Handicrafts, offering premium quality handmade carpets, textiles, pashminas, pottery, and paintings. Fabrics in all colors and texture are available for loose purchase as well as custom design work. Later the tour continues to the opulent City Palace, a former royal residence, now a grand museum with an extraordinary collection of miniature paintings, costumes, and armory. Continue to be impressed while you stop at the beautifully preserved 18th century Jantar Mantar Observatory with its ingenious instruments. Tonight will be highlighted by the exotic flavors of Indian cuisine at a local neighborhood restaurant, while you're entertained by performers in traditional attire as they enact various interesting dance moves on the rhythm of the accompanying musical instruments
Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 8, Friday - Samode Safari and Gala Dinner
This morning, journey to the nearby rustic village of Samode, set among the rugged Aravalli hills. Enjoy a jeep or camel (if available) safari around the hilly countryside into villages and fields. You will have the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their everyday rural life. Afterward, visit Samode Farm and witness a cooking demonstration of local specialties, followed by lunch. Later, check into the hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure. Tonight, attend an elegant gala dinner, where a royal welcome awaits you with soldiers, horses, and camels on each side. The evening is filled with delectable food and entertainment, featuring local dancers and musicians. The night concludes with a spectacular fireworks display!
Overnight: Samode
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, Saturday - Jeep Safari, Travel to New Delhi
Morning departure from Samode to New Delhi. On the way, stop for a village jeep safari to have a glimpse of the village life followed by lunch at a hotel. Afterwards, travel to New Delhi. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Say goodbye to your India Tour Manager tonight as you prepare to embark on your next adventure
Overnight: New Delhi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 10, Sunday - Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal
This morning, meet the representative who will transfer you to the airport for your flight from Delhi to Kathmandu, "The Roof of the World," in the shadow of the Himalayas. You'll be warmly welcomed and greeted with a traditional flower garland. Time to rest before this afternoon's briefing by your local Nepal Tour Manager, describing the sensational experiences that await you in Nepal
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11, Monday - Swayambhunath, Cooking Demonstration, Boudhanath
Rise early this morning to join the one hour optional flightseeing of Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world. Then, on to 1st-century Swayambhunath, crowning a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley with its golden spire adorned with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. This World Heritage Site is one of the most recognizable symbols of Nepal; the painted eyes of Buddha follow all who ascend the worn stone steps. Crowds of pilgrims and red-clad monks circle the complex, spinning the prayer wheels while scores of monkeys prance about in irreverent groups. Continue to Durbar Square, an amazing cluster of ancient temples and palaces that symbolize the country's religious and cultural life, including sprawling Hanuman Dhoka, ancient palace of Nepalese Royalty and the Temple of Kumari, home to the Living Goddess. See the stone carved statue of ferocious KalBhairav, a colorful memorial to the Hindu God of Destruction and the Temple of the Goddess Taleju. A change of pace as you arrive at a popular restaurant for lunch and a specially arranged cooking demonstration of MoMo, one of Nepal's national dishes. Afternoon visit to Boudhanath, the largest stupa of its kind in the world. Participate in a prayer ceremony and receive blessings from the Holy Lama at this extraordinary Buddhist monument. After an outstanding day, return to the hotel. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a Nepalese restaurant. Afterward, we suggest a Rickshaw ride to see the city's astonishing night lit temples and palaces
Optional: Mount Everest Flightseeing (AM)
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12, Tuesday - Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath, Mt. Everest Mountaineer
An excursion takes you this morning to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, called the "City of Devotees," a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lined with palaces, temples, statues and squares connected by a maze of pedestrianized streets. The 14th century Dattatreya Temple and the world famous Peacock Window at Tachapal keep visitors spellbound. Marvel at the intricately carved deities of the richly molded Golden Gate and enter the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows with its exquisite wood carvings. See the Lion's Gate with its guarding statues, Nyatapola, the five-storied temple in Taumadhi Square and the astonishing Bhairab Temple, dedicated to Lord Buddha. Then, you visit the Pottery Center where you watch a demonstration of this fine craft by skilled potters. After a village inspired lunch, you embark upon a journey to the World Heritage Site of Pashupatinath, one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world. On the banks of the holy Bagmati River, this temple is renowned for its beautiful architecture along with its cremation platforms spread along the river. You’ll see throngs of devotees meditating and praying on the steps throughout this sacred temple. At dinner tonight, an evening lecture and one-to-one conversation with a Nepalese woman mountaineer who has climbed Mt Everest -- you'll be inspired by her determination and courage
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 13, Wednesday - Chitwan National Park, Jungle Resort
Flight this morning to the village of Bharatpur, with its ochre-colored thatched roof houses. Continue past small villages and terraced rice fields to the Tharu villages of Chitwan. Arrive at Temple Tiger Green Jungle Resort, nestled on the banks of the Narayani River and Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meet your naturalist guide for a refreshing welcome drink and briefing about the park and the many different activities available during your stay. The resort, within its own surrounding forest, is designed to adjust to the natural harmony. No doubt you'll enjoy this memorable experience in the midst of one of the world's most beautiful nature centers. Time to settle in and savor a leisurely lunch before this afternoon's very special adventure. Begin with a visit to the elephant stables followed by an exciting Elephant Jungle Safari that penetrates the dense grasslands to view wildlife in their natural habitat. Tonight, a slide presentation on the local wildlife by a senior naturalist is followed by dinner at the resort's Round House. Share stories of today's elephant adventure with your fellow travelers
Overnight: Chitwan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 14, Thursday - Chitwan National Park, Jungle Resort
Your day is filled with wonderful adventures starting with a morning Jeep Safari. Afterward, you can choose to board a boat or paddle a canoe down the Narayani River. There'll be plenty of opportunities to view the Gharial or Mugger crocodiles as well as a variety of water birds. Then, travel a short distance by jeep inside the park stopping for a picnic lunch in this lush natural oasis. A nature walk with a trained naturalist introduces you to some of the wildlife and the huge species of birds. You'll learn more about Chitwan and its conservation efforts during your discussion with the guides. Later, an ox-cart ride to an authentic Tharu Village where you visit the museum and the homes of some of the indigenous people. In the evening, a delicious barbecue dinner accompanied by a performance by the local Tharu dance group
Overnight: Chitwan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 15, Friday - Pokhara's Natural Wonders
Depart the National Park and travel to Pokhara, the second largest city of Nepal. Along the way, view miles of rice paddies, mustard fields and rural areas dotted with colorful villages. Arrive in scenic Pokhara, home to three of the highest mountains in the world. Lunch at the hotel. Afternoon tour of some of the Pokhara Valley's natural wonders including cascading Devi's Falls, (Hell's Falls) which drops out of sight and is hidden in an underground gorge and the Seti Gandaki River, that flows throughout the city. Visit Gorkha Memorial Museum before continuing to the diverse Old Bazaar with its ethnic traders and stalls selling everything from edibles to gold -- it's definitely an interesting place to stroll. Here you also see the white domed Bindhyabasini Mandir, one of Pokhara's most important shrines, dedicated to the Goddess Bhagwati. The rest of the day is at leisure in Pokhara. Dinner is on your own
Overnight: Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 16, Saturday - Pokhara and the Annapurna Mountains
Early morning hike to the viewpoint at the Peace Pagoda; see the unforgettable sunrise over the mountain peaks. A packed breakfast will be provided. The Annapurna mountain range dominates your northern view while the sweeping expanse of the Pokhara Valley looms over the south and east. This is a not-to-be-missed experience! Afterward, lunch together at a local restaurant in Pokhara, followed by a visit to the International Mountain Museum. View the many exhibits focused on technique, equipment, and materials for hiking, of great interest in a country that is dominated by hikers and trekkers. The museum is in a perfect location, surrounded by the stunning Annapurna mountain range -- a favorite place for adventurers. Linger at the museum or return to the hotel. You're invited this evening for dinner with a local family at their home. There will be lots of opportunities to share great stories, local legends and delicious home cooked food
Overnight: Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 17 Sunday - Return to Kathmandu, Ancient Patan, Farewell to Nepal
Return flight to Kathmandu for an excursion to the ancient city of Patan, known as the "City of Fine Arts." Your tour begins at the main square, filled with breathtaking Hindu temples and striking Buddhist monuments. See the old Royal Palace, dominating all others in grace and grandeur and the 16th century stone Krishna Mandir, with its 21 pinnacles dedicated to Lord Krishna. Other landmarks include the Golden Temple and the terra-cotta temple of Mahabouddha. While in Patan, attend a lecture on Patan's restoration process. Afterward, time to rest and freshen up before tonight's festivities. A very special home hosted dinner has been arranged just for you -- a perfect conclusion to your wonderful journey through Nepal. The friends and family of the host and hostess will join you as you bid farewell to your Tour Manager and to Nepal
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 18, Monday - Kingdom of Bhutan
A traditional "khada" ceremony this morning as a symbolic scarf is wrapped around you, with blessings for a serene and safe journey. Travel by flight to Paro in the spiritual mountain kingdom of Bhutan with its striking monasteries and magnificent mountain scenery. Here, you'll also see traditional dzongs dotting the landscape, a distinctive type of fortress architecture with towering exterior walls surrounding complexes of courtyards, temples, and monks' accommodations. Tucked away between China and India in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan remains a uniquely distinct country. Upon arrival in historic Paro, drive to the capital city of Thimphu, a fabulous blending of old and new. Time to stroll through the main square and get acquainted with your new surroundings. Tonight, a briefing by your Bhutan Tour Manager about the adventure that awaits you in Bhutan, followed by a Welcome Dinner together at the hotel
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 19, Tuesday - Discover Thimphu
In Thimphu, you observe monks strolling serenely in their crimson robes and workers wearing traditional ghos and kiras. Your day begins with a visit to the indigenous Medical Hospital, and the Painting School where students learn thirteen different Bhutanese crafts over the six-year course including paper making, masonry, painting, sculpture, embroidery and much more. At the National Library, you view the largest book in the world before proceeding to the Folk Heritage Museum to tour the medieval home used by Bhutan's Queen mothers. Here, you enjoy a lunch of traditional Bhutanese cuisine served in the impressive and historic courtyard. At the Royal Textile museum, view unique displays of textile designs and watch a multimedia presentation before returning for dinner at the hotel and an evening at leisure
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 20, Wednesday - Memorial Chorten, Big Buddha Hill, School of Astrology, Takin Zoo
This morning, you join Buddhists performing their daily ritual of turning the giant red prayer wheels at the whitewashed National Memorial Chorten with its shining golden finial, dedicated to the third king of Bhutan. Next, drive to the Big Buddha Hill. Here, stop at the Big Buddha Temple for a visit, or for an independent meditation. Afterward, begin a moderate hike around the temple. The area offers great views of the Thimphu Valley below. End the hike at Kuensel Phodrang Park where a picnic lunch will be provided. Afternoon drive to Pangri Zampa and visit the School of Astrology, where you learn more about this very popular study followed by many families and young monks. Afterward, drive to the Takin Zoo where you'll finally meet a Takin, the rare national animal of Bhutan. The rest of the day is yours. Perhaps shop in one of the many handicraft stores to bring some treasures back home. At dinner this evening, High School students in traditional dress will join you and bring costumes for you to try. Opportunity to dress as a Bhutanese! It will be a great photo opportunity!
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 21, Thursday - Lobesa, Chimi Lhakhang Monastery, Punakha
An early start this morning as you drive through the scenic terrain of the Himalayas to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, pausing at Dochhula Pass to view the astounding snow-clad peaks of Bhutan (on a clear day.) You pass over one hundred monuments and see many colorful prayer flags along your route on your way to the Royal Botanical gardens. After lunch in the village of Lobesa, continue to Chimi Lhakhang, a monastery and fertility temple dedicated to a famous monk also known as "the divine madman." Famous for being unorthodox and trying to make Buddhism more relaxed, he is considered a hero in Bhutan. The monastery is also a fertility temple and couples often come here who want to have children. Later, you experience the soothing sounds of chants and spiritual music as you enter a nearby nunnery or temple. Before dinner at the hotel, you gather to learn how to create a Mandala out of colorful rice, a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism that represents the Universe
Overnight: Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 22, Friday - Punakha Dzong, Sisina Farm House, Tachogang Lhakhang, Paro
Visit Punakha Dzong, the center of power until 1907, considered the most beautiful dzong in the country with its towering whitewashed walls accented by elaborately painted gold, red and black wood. By tradition, all of the Kings of Bhutan are crowned here in the 100-pillar Coronation Hall, decorated with massive gold statues and murals depicting the life of Buddha. After, you continue to Paro, stopping along the way at the legendary Wang Sisina Farm House for a delicious traditional Bhutanese meal served in original earthenware by the hostess. An interesting cultural show and tour of the vast courtyards of this 300 year-old-home will also be arranged. After, you drive to Tachogang Lhakhang near Chuzom, one of the temples founded by a Tibetan saint who also designed and erected many iron suspension bridges in the early 15th century, making parts of Bhutan accessible for the very first time. At an incense making shop, you learn more about this craft, and how this has become a popular small industry in this area. Arrive in the town of Paro for an orientation walk before heading to your hotel for dinner and overnight
Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 23, Saturday - National Museum, Rinpung Dzong, Temple of Kyichu
Morning tour of Paro's National Museum, housed in an old hilltop watchtower resembling the shape of a conch shell. You're guided here by a local historian/writer who interprets for you the museum's valuable collection of antique paintings, festival masks, religious statues and stone carvings. Next, on to Rinpung Dzong, one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Don't miss the unique painting of Milarepa, considered the master of meditation by the Buddhists. Walk down to the cantilevered wooden covered bridge that spans the Paro Chhu, a reconstruction of the original bridge washed away in 1969. After lunch at a local restaurant, on to the 7th century Temple of Kyichu; tour the ruins of the Drukgyal Dzong, built as a symbol of victory when the Mongolian and Tibetan invaders from the north were defeated. Enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea served inside the ruins of this astonishing setting. Dinner at the hotel
Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 24, Sunday - Ascend to "Tigers Nest"
If you're adventurous and physically fit, get ready for a memorable hike to world-famous "Tiger's Nest" or Taktsang Palphug Monastery. Located on the face of a sheer cliff above the floor of the Paro Valley, this not to be missed site is accessible only by walking or by a mule or pony (optional and pre-arranged only). This sacred pilgrimage site is where the great tantric mystic, Padmasambhava flew on the back of the tiger and brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan (mythical belief). The Monastery clings to a cliff soaring 3,000 feet above the valley floor at an altitude of 10,000 feet. Along the way, you can hang prayer flags for world peace, or for people who are hungry, ill or in pain (in Buddhism, a prayer flag is considered a blessing). Stop for lunch and savor the breathtaking views from the cafeteria before slowly descending. Tonight, bid a fond farewell at dinner to your newfound friends and Tour Manager with whom you shared this extraordinary journey in Bhutan
Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 25, Monday - Depart Bhutan, Arrive in Nepal
Early this morning, depart from the airport in Paro on a flight that takes you back to Kathmandu, Nepal. The remainder of the day is at leisure for individual pursuits or join the optional Dhulikhel & Panauti Tour, where you will do some off the beaten path exploring of the Kathmandu Valley. Start out in Dhulikhel, an ancient town located about 20 miles east of Kathmandu city. You’ll hike among the rolling green hills, admiring the mountains stretching into the distance and traditional architecture that dots the area around this historic trading center along the old commercial route linking Nepal to Tibet. Along the way, you’ll climb up to Devi Temple and stop at Shanti Ban, a serene forest that is home to a giant statue of Gautama Buddha. End the hike in Panauti village, a traditional Newar settlement rich in rural character. Here, you will see several temples, including the Indreshwar Mahadev and Bhairav Temples, along with magnificent Rana-era mansions and stupas
Optional: Dhulikhel & Panauti Tour
Overnight: Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 26, Tuesday - Depart Nepal
Morning is at leisure. In the late afternoon transfer to the airport for your flight later this evening
Meals: Breakfast
