26 Day Nepal & India Northern Heritage Small Group Tour

Welcome to Kathmandu! Kathmandu, Nepal's largest city, is the nation's political and cultural heart. Despite rapid growth, its people remain warm and welcoming. Explore colorful markets, ancient temples, and sacred shrines, soak in rich culture, and discover the gateway to the Himalayas. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel where you will have the night to enjoy the city and prepare for your adventure ahead. Special Information Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

After breakfast, meet your tour leader for a welcome briefing before you begin exploring Kathmandu.You will discover some of the Kathmandu Valley's most beautiful heritage sites—from temples and stupas to ancient alleyways. Start by heading to the old quarter of the city, where you'll wander through narrow lanes lined with traditional shops and bustling markets. Continue on foot to Kathmandu Durbar Square, the historic royal palace complex renowned for its exquisite architecture and sacred temples. Next, drive to the ancient town of Kirtipur, known for its charming houses and warm, welcoming locals. Here, you'll enjoy an authentic Newari meal at a local homestay. Afterwards, we will reach one of the area's most iconic landmarks—the Bagh Bhairav Temple. This ancient site is steeped in culture, and on clear days the views from the top are spectacular.Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, rejoin with your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner. Inspiring Highlights Kathmandu Durbar Square Kirtipur Town Visit Local Lunch at a Newari House

After breakfast, continue your exploration of the Kathmandu Valley. The valley comprises three sister cities, one of which is the charming and well-preserved town of Bhaktapur. Founded in the 9th century, Bhaktapur is the best-preserved of the Kathmandu Valley's three ancient cities. Before heading there, you will visit two of Kathmandu's most significant religious landmarks: Pashupatinath Temple, a beautifully crafted pagoda-style shrine with a gilded roof and ornate silver doors, revered as Nepal's holiest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva; and the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the city's most iconic Buddhist sites. This 36-meter stupa rises from a three-tiered mandala platform and is surrounded by 108 images of Amitabha Buddha and rows of prayer wheels that thousands of pilgrims circle each day. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Pashupatinath Temple Boudhanath Stupa Bhaktapur Visit Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast, drive to the airport to catch a short flight to Pokhara. Pokhara is a city that captivates visitors with its year-round pleasant climate and jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas. Towering above the city, the majestic Machhapuchhre—known as Fish Tail Mountain (6,997 m)—and the mighty Annapurna range create a breathtaking backdrop at every turn. Adding to the city's charm is the tranquil Phewa Lake, where shimmering waters reflect the surrounding peaks, making it a perfect spot for boating, relaxation, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. After checking-in at your hotel, go for a boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit Tal Barahi temple in the middle ofthe Lake. The lake is stream fed but a dam regulates the water reserve, therefore, classifying as semi-naturalfreshwater lake. The two-story pagoda of the Barahi Temple is situated in a small island in the Phewa Lakesurrounded by marvellous views. This Hindu temple in Nepal is dedicated to Goddess Ajima in the form ofa boar called Barahi. Spend the evening relaxing or strolling around the vibrant Phewa Lakeside. Inspiring Highlights Phewa Lake Boat Ride Tal Barahi Temple Visit Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. Your flight will be escorted and documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 25kg, and one 5kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed.

After breakfast, set out to explore this beautiful town and its key landmarks. Begin with a visit to the International Mountain Museum, where you'll discover remarkable stories from historic Himalayan expeditions—some triumphant, others tragic. The museum showcases equipment from early mountaineering attempts and offers fascinating insights into the region's natural history and the daring feats of legendary climbers. Next, drive to the Pema Tsal Sakya Monastery for an insightful glimpse into Buddhist philosophy and daily monastic life in Nepal, where many young monks receive their spiritual and academic education.Continue your exploration with a visit to the World Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa built by monks of the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji order. Perched on a narrow ridge above Phewa Lake, it offers sweeping views of both the lake and the city below. Return to your hotel in the afternoon and enjoy the remainder of your day. Inspiring Highlights International Mountain Museum Pema Tsal Sakya Monastery World Peace Pagoda

After breakfast, you will be driven on a scenic route on your way to Santi Maidan, enjoying winding roads and beautiful landscapes along the way. Upon arrival immerse yourself in local life with a visit to a traditional Nepali home. Here, you can sample local delicacies that serve as a light traditional breakfast for the villagers. Depending on the season, you may also have the opportunity to participate in activities such as ghee-making (preparing butter in the traditional local style), or grinding flour using a stone mill, as still practiced in many households. From there, a short drive brings you to the starting point of your hike. Passing charming Nepali-style houses, begin a 15–20 minute uphill walk along stone stairways. As you ascend, the views grow increasingly spectacular, with glimpses of Begnas Lake, Pokhara's second-largest lake. Continue to the hilltop Thulakot Temple, dedicated to Bhairav, where breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhare mountains await. Below, the serene village of Deumadi unfolds, offering a perfect spot to soak in the natural beauty. Descend along the ridge toward Deumadi village, where your exploration concludes. Here, a vehicle transfer is arranged for the next leg of the journey. Later, drive back to Lakeside for lunch and some free time. In the afternoon, transfer to Sarangkot for a relaxing end to your day, enjoying panoramic views and tranquil surroundings. Upon arriving in Sarangkot, relax in a peaceful mountain setting while taking in the up-close, breathtaking vistas of the majestic Annapurna range. Inspiring Highlights Deumadi Village Hike Sarangkot Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. Deumadi Village Hike: This moderate, less-crowded trail offers a peaceful experience immersed in nature. The route features a mix of gentle ascents and descents. The halfway point includes some rough, uneven terrain, while the remainder of the hike follows a stone-paved path and stairways. It can be adapted for comfort and accessibility as needed. The hike covers approximately 7 km and typically takes around 4 hours, depending on your pace and the number of breaks taken.

Sarangkot is considered one of the best spots for Himalayan views, particularly for sunrise and sunset, offering panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. For early risers, enjoy a breathtaking sunrise from your room (weather permitting). After breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Chitwan National Park for an immersive nature and wildlife experience. Meaning “heart of the jungle,” Chitwan is one of Asia's finest national parks, celebrated for its rich biodiversity, dense forests, and expansive grasslands. It remains one of the last surviving stretches of continuous wilderness that once ran from the Indus River in Pakistan to the Burmese border. The park is especially renowned for its population of Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros and is also home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Upon arrival and check-in, enjoy an excursion to a Tharu village. The Tharu are an Indigenous community of Nepal's lowlands, known for their distinctive culture, attire, and traditions. You will also have the chance to participate in preparing a few traditional Tharu dishes that will later be included in your dinner at the resort. This hands-on experience offers a delightful glimpse into the region's culinary heritage. In the evening, relax at the resort and enjoy a vibrant Tharu cultural dance performance. Inspiring Highlights Himalayan Range Sunrise Chitwan National Park Tharu Village Visit & Cultural Dance Performance Tharu Cooking Experience Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours. Please note that the experiences on Day 7 and Day 8 may be arranged in either order, depending on local condition.

Today is dedicated to exploring Chitwan National Park and discovering the remarkable wildlife that thrives within its borders. Board a jeep for a thrilling four-hour safari, keeping watch for a diverse array of species—from the majestic one-horned rhinoceros to honey badgers, Bengal foxes, civets, mongooses, and, with a bit of luck, even the elusive Bengal tiger. After lunch, enjoy a serene canoe ride down the Rapti River in a traditional dugout canoe. As you glide along the water, look out for exotic birdlife and the river's reptilian residents, including marsh mugger crocodiles and gharials, resting along the banks. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Chitwan National Park jeep ride Chitwan National Park canoe ride

In the morning, you may opt to join an early birdwatching excursion before returning for a leisurely breakfast in the peaceful southern plains of Nepal. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in the capital and transfer to your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure—whether you prefer to relax or explore the local markets for some souvenir shopping. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.Your flight will be escorted and your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 25kg, and one 5kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed.

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Amritsar via Delhi. Founded in the 16th century by Guru Ram Das, Amritsar is a city of profound cultural and spiritual significance, renowned above all as the home of the magnificent Golden Temple. On arrival in the late afternoon, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 9 hours. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 20 kg, and one 7 kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted; you'll meet your India tour leader on day 11.

This morning after breakfast, set out on a sightseeing tour of Amritsar, beginning at the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine of Sikhism, with its striking golden façade and serene sarovar. Continue to Jallianwala Bagh, a moving memorial to the events of 1919, and the nearby Partition Museum, which preserves personal stories and artefacts from one of the largest human migrations in history. In the late afternoon, travel to the Attari–Wagah Border to witness the spirited Beating Retreat ceremony, a coordinated drill and flag-lowering performance carried out daily by Indian and Pakistani forces. Following the ceremony, return to your hotel. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at a local Indian restaurant celebrating regional flavours and warm hospitality. Inspiring Highlights Golden Temple visit Jallianwala Bagh and Partition Museum Attari–Wagah Border ceremony Special Information The Wagah Border ceremony involves crowds, sun exposure and walking. Comfortable footwear, sun protection and a refillable water bottle are recommended.

This morning is at leisure to enjoy your hotel surroundings before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. India's vibrant capital is a dynamic blend of history and modernity, where centuries-old monuments stand beside contemporary architecture, and the bustling lanes of Old Delhi give way to the grandeur of Lutyens' New Delhi. On arrival, a local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy your evening at leisure. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be escorted.

This morning after breakfast, head out to explore the bustling streets, vibrant markets and historic architecture of Old Delhi, with a drive past the imposing Red Fort and a rickshaw ride through the lanes of Chandni Chowk. Continue into New Delhi to see India Gate and the surrounding government buildings of Lutyens' Delhi. Next, soak in the spiritual and cultural ambience of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, where you may take part in langar, the communal meal that reflects Sikh values of equality and service. Afterwards, visit Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site that inspired the design of the Taj Mahal, and stroll through its peaceful gardens. Enjoy your evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Old Delhi sightseeing with rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk India Gate and Lutyens' Delhi drive Gurudwara Bangla Sahib visit Humayun's Tomb

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and the spiritual heart of India. Set along the sacred River Ganges, it is a place where ancient rituals, winding lanes and vibrant ghats come together in a powerful tapestry of culture and devotion. On arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to rest and refresh. This evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a mesmerising ritual along the sacred river, accompanied by reflections from a cultural guide who will share insights into its spiritual significance and local traditions. Inspiring Highlights • Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be escorted.

Begin the day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, observing the morning rituals along the ghats as the city awakens to the river's rhythm. There is the chance to take part in the ceremony by gently releasing earthen lamps onto the water, creating a quiet moment of personal connection. Disembark at Manikarnika Ghat and walk through the temple corridor, with views of Manikarnika Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple from outside. Return to the hotel for breakfast, then travel to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where the Buddha is said to have given his first sermon. Later in the afternoon, meet local silk weavers, watch their demonstrations and hear their stories about preserving a centuries-old craft. After a day rich with sightseeing, unwind on your final evening in Varanasi at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges Walk through the ghats and temple corridor Sarnath Buddhist site Silk weavers visit

This morning is free to enjoy the facilities at your hotel. In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station and board your train to Agra in air-conditioned executive class. Enjoy the scenic views as you pass through the beautiful countryside. A simple dinner will be served on board by Indian Railways. Upon your late arrival in Agra, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours. Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader. On the train, you will be travelling in the air-conditioned Executive Class. A simple dinner is served on the train as a pre-packed meal. Please note that these trains cannot accommodate special dietary requirements. If needed, your tour leader can assist you in purchasing food in advance before boarding.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed start before heading out to visit Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah, both showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the Mughal era. Inspiring Highlights Agra Fort Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb

Rise early for a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, the iconic symbol of love and one of the world's most celebrated examples of Mughal architecture. Return to your hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, depart Agra and travel by road to Jaipur, stopping en route at Abhaneri to visit the remarkable Chand Baori Stepwell, a striking example of ancient water-management architecture. Continue on to Jaipur, the Pink City, a vibrant blend of royal heritage and bustling markets, arriving at your hotel in the evening. Inspiring Highlights Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal Chand Baori Stepwell at Abhaneri Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

This morning after breakfast, begin the day with a jeep ride up to the magnificent Amber Fort, where you will explore its stunning architecture and royal courtyards. Continue on to a hands-on block-printing workshop, learning traditional techniques and gaining insight into the social and cultural context of this enduring craft. The afternoon is at leisure for shopping or relaxing. You may like to wander the colourful bazaars of the old city for textiles, jewellery and handicrafts, take time to relax at your hotel, or enjoy a leisurely Indian lunch nearby. Inspiring Highlights Amber Fort jeep ride and visit Block-printing workshop

This morning after breakfast, set off on a walking tour of Jaipur's old city, soaking up the sights, sounds and colours of its lively streets. Drive past the iconic Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, before exploring the City Palace and the fascinating Jantar Mantar observatory, two landmarks that beautifully reflect Jaipur's royal heritage and scientific achievement. Inspiring Highlights Old city walking tour Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) drive past City Palace Jantar Mantar observatory

After breakfast, set off on a scenic road journey to Rohet Garh, travelling via Jodhpur. Rising majestically from the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is famed for its blue-painted houses and the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, which towers over the city. Visit the fort and enjoy a walking tour of the blue old town and its famous spice market. Here, you will have the chance to meet The Spice Girls of Rajasthan, a remarkable sister team who transformed a humble family spice stall into a globally admired, women-led business, hand-crafting exquisite spice blends while preserving their father's legacy. In the late afternoon, continue on to Rohet Garh, an intimate heritage property, where you will check in for a two-night stay. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at the hotel. Inspiring Highlights Mehrangarh Fort visit Walking tour of Jodhpur's blue old city Spice market visit and meeting with The Spice Girls of Rajasthan Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

This morning after breakfast, head out on a jeep safari through the surrounding rural villages, meeting households of the Bishnoi community to gain insight into daily life, traditional crafts and community practices. You will also hear the inspiring story of Amrita Devi, remembered for her remarkable commitment to nature and her courage in protecting a khejri tree from being cut down in 1730, a legacy of environmental stewardship that endures to this day. The afternoon is at leisure to relax by the pool, wander through the village or simply enjoy your tranquil heritage surroundings. This evening, gather for dinner at the hotel in its atmospheric heritage setting. Inspiring Highlights Bishnoi village jeep safari

After breakfast, depart Rohet Garh and travel by road to Udaipur, stopping en route at the magnificent Ranakpur Jain Temples, renowned for their intricately carved marble interiors and remarkable craftsmanship. Continue on to Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes, a romantic city of serene waterways, grand palaces and timeless royal heritage. On arrival, check in at your hotel. Inspiring Highlights Ranakpur Jain Temples Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

This morning after breakfast, set out to visit the magnificent City Palace, perched above Lake Pichola, then continue on to Jagdish Temple and the elegant gardens of Saheliyon-ki-Bari, the 'Garden of the Maidens'. Afterwards, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, soaking in postcard views of the palaces, temples and ghats that line its shores. The afternoon is at leisure for shopping or relaxing. You may like to browse the local bazaars for miniature paintings, silver jewellery and traditional textiles, enjoy a quiet lakeside coffee, or simply unwind back at your hotel. Inspiring Highlights City Palace, Jagdish Temple and Saheliyon-ki-Bari Boat ride on Lake Pichola

This morning is at leisure to enjoy your hotel surroundings before transferring to Udaipur Airport for your flight to Delhi. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You might choose to take a relaxed stroll through Connaught Place, browse the boutiques of Khan Market, or simply rest at your hotel ahead of your departure tomorrow. Tonight is at your leisure to enjoy a final dinner of your choice. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg, and one 7kg carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be escorted.

Today marks the end of your North India adventure. We hope you leave with vivid memories of sunrise on the Ganges, the marble glow of the Taj Mahal, the colour of Rajasthan's palaces and the warmth of the people you have met along the way. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward connecting flight. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. If you choose to extend your stay (e.g., departing after the final tour date) and have booked your additional accommodation independently, this included service will be forfeited and no refund will be issued. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.