Best of India & Nepal
Overview
A sunrise cruise on the Ganges, a morning flight over the Himalayas to behold the drama of Everest, a dinner in the home of an Indian family… this itinerary brings you the history and adventure of India with all the extra touches that will enrich every memory. From Mumbai to Kathmandu, you’ll explore the spectacle and the pageantry of these exceptional destinations.
14 Days: Mumbai, Udaipur, Ranakpur, Jodhpur, Amber Fort, Agra, Khajuraho, Varanasi, Delhi
16 Days: Mumbai, Udaipur, Ranakpur, Jodhpur, Amber Fort, Agra, Khajuraho, Varanasi, Delhi, Kathmandu, Patan
Inclusions
As a guest of SITA, you will receive a Silk Scarf and Necktie as a souvenir of your unforgettable journey to India.
- Deluxe Accommodation as listed (or similar)
- Daily Breakfast
- Welcome & Farewell Dinner
- Bottled water with every meal
- Arrival & departure transfers
- All sightseeing as per the itinerary
- Local English-speaking guides for sightseeing
- Entrance fee to monuments
- Baggage Handling
- Sunset visit to the Taj Mahal
- Boat ride on the Ganges River in Varanasi
- Train fare Agra/Jhansi in Air-Conditioned Class
- All present applicable taxes
Accommodation
Mumbai | Taj Mahal (Deluxe) |
Udaipur | Lake Palace (Luxury) |
Jodhpur | Umaid Bhawan Palace (Deluxe) |
Jaipur | Rambagh Palace (Deluxe) |
Agra | ITC Mughal (Deluxe) |
Khajuraho | The Lalit Temple View (Deluxe) |
Varanasi | The Gateway (First Class) |
Delhi | The Imperial (Luxury) |
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive Mumbai (Bombay)
Arrive in the cosmopolitan city of Mumbai (formerly Bombay) where you are welcomed with a traditional Indian greeting before being escorted to your hotel.
Day 2
Mumbai Sightseeing
After a leisurely morning, embark on a tour of Mumbai. Visit the Gateway of India, the Hanging Gardens and the Malabar Hills where Mumbai’s rich and famous live, the Prince of Wales Museum, Dhobi Ghat, Marine Drive, the Gandhi Memorial Museum and Jain Temple. Welcome Dinner at the hotel. (BD)
Day 3
Elephanta Caves / Udaipur
Cruise across the harbor to explore the amazing Elephanta Island and its famous caves, with carvings and sculptures dating back to 550 A.D. Fly to Udaipur and transfer to your hotel. (B)
Day 4
Udaipur Sightseeing
Picturesque Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes,” is among the most romantic cities of India. Visit the City Palace, Saheliyonki Bari or Garden of Maids and the folklore museum where you are entertained by string puppets show typical to this area. Afternoon is at leisure. (B)
Day 5
Udaipur / Ranakpur / Jodhpur
Drive to Jodhpur, en-route visiting the sculpted Jain temples of Ranakpur. Stop for lunch at Maharani Bagh, a mango grove and private gardens of the Maharajah of Jodhpur. (BL)
Day 6
Jodhpur Sightseeing
Visit the invincible Mehrangarh Fort followed by a visit to the Jaswant Thada, a graceful marble cenotaph built in 1899 for Maharajah Jaswant Singh II, and cenotaphs of other Maharajahs of Jodhpur. Afternoon is at leisure. (B)
Day 7
Jodhpur / Jaipur
Drive to Jaipur today, the capital and largest city of Rajasthan, also known as the “Pink City.” This afternoon, visit the City Palace, ancient observatory, and Hawa Mahal, also known as “Palace of Winds.” (B)
Day 8
Amber Fort Excursion
Ascend to the mountain fort, a wonderful example of Rajput architecture. Walk through its complex of palaces, temples, and ornate apartments before taking the rest of the day for independent exploration. (B)
Day 9
Jaipur / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra
En route to Agra, visit the abandoned city of FatehpurSikri, a unique masterpiece of Muslim, Hindu and Jain architecture. Your afternoon in Agra will be spent exploring the city and the 16th century Agra Fort. Your day ends with the magnificent Taj Mahal, a monument to the memory of love. Your romantic encounter is further enhanced by the opportunity of viewing this beautiful edifice in the warm glow of sunset. (B)
Day 10
Agra / Khajuraho
Today, board the train for Jhansi. Visit the medieval city of Orcha en route to Khajuraho. This afternoon visit the Western group of temples. Not much has changed to the appearance of the city since the 17th century. (B)
Day 11
Khajuraho / Varanasi
Fly out to the holy city of Varanasi (Benares) after visiting the Eastern Group of Temples. Later visit Sarnath, site of Buddha’s first sermon, with its stupas and museum. In the evening proceed to the ghats in cycle rickshaws to witness the evening aarti ceremony. (B)
Day 12
Varanasi / Delhi
Early this morning embark on a cruise on the Ganges. Witness a stunning sight as a multitude of devotees swarm the river and pay obeisance to the rising sun. Later continue on a walking tour of the historic city where spiritualism permeates the atmosphere. Later fly to the bustling capital city of Delhi and check in at your hotel. (B)
Day 13
Delhi Sightseeing
Your morning starts off with a tour of Old Delhi visiting the Red Fort (Drive-By), Raj Ghat (a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi) and the mile-long Chandni Chowk bazaar. The afternoon will be spent exploring New Delhi with a drive along Rajpath where you can view the Parliament House, the President’s House and India Gate. A visit to Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar and Birla Temple are also included. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner (BD)
Day 14
Akshardham Temple Sightseeing
Your morning starts off with a tour of Old Delhi visiting the Red Fort, Raj Ghat (a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi) and the mile-long Chandni Chowk bazaar. The afternoon will be spent exploring New Delhi with a drive along Rajpath where you can view the Parliament House, the President’s House and India Gate. A visit to Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar and Birla Temple are also included. (B)
Kathmandu Extension
Day 14
Delhi / Kathmandu
This evening you are bound for Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. (B)
Day 15
Mt. Everest Flight-Seeing / Patan & Bhadgaon
Experience a one hour flight over the majestic Himalayas to see Mt. Everest, the tallest peak in the world. Following your flight, you will visit the charming towns of Bhaktapur, Pashupathinath and Bodhnath. The afternoon will be in Patan and the Tibetan handicraft center. The evening winds down with a presentation of Nepalese folk dances. *Note: Mt. Everest flight subject to weather conditions. (B)
Day 16
Kathmandu / Delhi
Explore Durbar Square, Temple of the Living Goddess and Swayambhunath before boarding your flight for Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. (B)