Delhi – Kathmandu Overland Tour
This magnificent route from India to Nepal is one of the original journeys that travellers took in the 60’s and 70’s when Nepal was opening up to foreigners.
The journey takes in the splendours of Northern India and the mountain Kingdom of Nepal. It’s a varied journey, starting in Delhi, and taking you into the remote lush forests of Orchha, the Kama Sutra temples in Khajuraho and the holy Hindu city of Varanasi.
Once in Nepal, you will witness all the wildlife splendour of “Royal Chitwan National Park” and the gorgeous lakeside village of Pokhara and end the trip in the capital of Kathmandu.
Day 1/2 Delhi
Orientation and days sightseeing. A city full of architectural wonders, Old Delhi has the magnificent Jama Masjid, the Red Fort and the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, and the aromatic old spice markets. In New Delhi there is India Gate, the Parliament House and Connaught Circus for great shops and restaurants.
Day 3/4 – Agra
Early morning drive to Agra (approx. 4 hrs) home of the Taj Mahal! Settle into hotel and wander the shops and markets, visit a carpet shop and take a sunset boat ride to view the Taj Mahal from the Yamuna River. Next day up at sunrise to enter the Taj Mahal. The afternoon is set aside for a visit to Agra Fort, with more magnificent views of the Taj Mahal.
Day 5/6 Orchha
Early morning scenic drive from Khajuraho to Orchha. Known as “Hidden Place”, Orchha certainly lives up to its name, languishing amid a tangle of scrubby Dhak Forests! Situated on the banks of the Betwa River, this sleepy village of market stalls, derelict palaces make an excellent spot to unwind. The Betwa River is a great place for a swim. Evenings we will dine on the roof of an eighteenth century castle, while watching some classical Indian dancing.
Day 7/8 – Khajuraho
The greatest achievement of the Chandella dynasty, these erotic “Kama Sutra” temples were built between 10th & 12th centuries AD one of India’s most popular historic monuments. We stay at a wonderful hotel with pool where we can practice yoga and take an evening dip. The evenings will be spent watching a spectacular sound and light show over the temples while dinning on a rooftop restaurant.
Day 9/10/11 Varanasi
Leave early enroute the Holy Hindu city of Varanasi. We have 2 days here to explore the narrow laneways of the old city, go on a sunrise and sunset boat trip along the Ganges River and visit a vast array of ancient temples. We will enjoy boat rides on the Ganges River, listen to some classical Indian music while sipping Chai…
Day 12/13 – Royal Chitwan National Park
Since the 19th century this valley was a centre for the hunting trips for British and Nepali aristocrats. Today the park offers one of the finest wildlife experiences in Asia. Home to Rhinos, alligators and elephants. We will have the opportunity to embark on a day jungle safari, visit the elephant breeding centre, cycle around the local villages and of course dine at the many restaurants while watching the sunset on the river…
Day 14/15 – Pokhara
At true cultural wonder, spend our time relaxing on Pokhara’s lakeside area, while enjoying the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalaya!. We shall do a one of the many day walks in and around Pohkara and spend a few hours at the Gorkha’s Fort Palace and temple complex. A triumph of Nepal architecture, offering superb views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Day 16/17/18 – Kathmandu Valley
Leave early for days drive through glorious mountain countryside to the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. The will embark on a “walking tour” exploring the various ancient sites and temples that Kathmandu including Swayambhunath (The Monkey Temple) We shall explore “Freak Street” (Jochine real name) Kathmandu’s most famous hang out in the hippie days of the 60’s and 70’s. The popular district of Thamel, is more the place these days, which has a plethora of markets, cafes, bookshops and local restaurants.
Inclusions;
All airport, train station and hotel group transfers
All hotels, 3 & 4 * with breakfast included
1 x main meal per day – vegetarian (either lunch or dinner)
Transport – Private bus with English speaking drivers
All sightseeing with Tour Leader & Local tour guides
Sunrise and Sunset boat rides in Varanasi
Not Included;
Indian & Nepal tourist visas
Extra meals outside what is stated.
Drinks, tea/coffees, desserts/sweets, any personal items.
Any domestic flights, travel insurance, tipping, extra nights for hotel outside tour dates, Luggage porters at train stations
Any individual sightseeing entrance fees etc outside organized itinerary with group
Indian music events
Elephant ride in Chitwan National Park
