Highlights of Northern India & Nepal

• 13 nights in hotels and lodges, one night on a sleeper train
• Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
• Travel by private air-conditioned bus and train
• Jeep safari and a dug-out canoe excursion
• Entrance fees as detailed in itinerary

This trip has been rated Activity Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate).

This is not a physically demanding tour, but some days can be long, such as the drives between Delhi and Jaipur (approximately five to seven hours), Jaipur and Agra (approximately five to six hours), Varanasi and Lumbini (approximately 12 hours), and Pokhara and Kathmandu (approximately seven to eight hours). The stunning scenery, however, compensates for this. We will also have some early starts to take advantage of the daylight. Most of the roads are in fairly good condition but you should be prepared for a few rougher sections particularly between Pokhara and Kathmandu. The trains are a fun way to travel and meet Indian people, although delays are always possible.

A short hike is included in Pokhara where you will be driven to a lookout point for spectacular views before descending down some steep (in places) village trails, and stone steps to Pame. From here you will pick up your transfer back to Pokhara. Due to the nature of the trails, walking boots are recommended particularly in wet weather but wearing trainers is not an problem if preferred.

Please note, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India, including the Taj Mahal, and very occasionally this may mean work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published so it is not possible to forewarn our clients of when work will be taking place.

Monsoon Season

For our July and August departures, please note this will be during the monsoon season and may impact your available activities in Varanasi. If there have been recent heavy rains which, considerably raising the water level of the Ganges, this may result in all boat tours closing until the water levels reduce. Should this occur on your trip and you are unable to join the morning Ganges boat tour or the optional sunset boat ride in Varanasi, an alternative walking street tour of Varanasi will be arranged for the the morning activity. In evening you will be able to visit the main Ghat (Dashwasmeth Ghat) to witness the locals evening ceremony that takes place.

Holi and Diwali festivals

Some departures will take place during the festivals of Holi and Diwali. They are great festivals to witness and some very minor itinerary alterations may be made locally to make the most of these occasions. Holi celebrations typically involve people throwing coloured water at each other and smearing powder on each other's faces. This is accompanied by dancing, music and traditional Holi sweets, such as ghujiya (sweet dumplings). It's a riot of colour as the powder bursts into the sky. During Diwali, the festival of lights, people typically illuminate their houses, shops and streets, and celebrate on the streets with fireworks.