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The Natural World |
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| · Introduction |
NORTHERN INDIA AND NEPAL
16 DAYS (ALSO AVAILABLE AS A GROUP TOUR)
Delhi / Kathmandu /
Royal Chitwan National Park / Pokhara / Varanasi / Khajuraho /
Agra / Jaipur / Delhi
This tour is a fascinating fusion of cultural sites, wildlife and majestic
snow capped Himalayan peaks. From the ethereal majesty of Nepalese splendour
and grandeur of the finest Northern Indian heritage, this holiday is an
extraordinary experience.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: To Delhi
Fly direct to Delhi. Two nights at Welcome hotel Marriott or similar.
DAY 2: Delhi
Late morning sightseeing of Old and New Delhi, capturing the main highlights
of India Gate, Humayan’s Tomb, The Red fort, Qutab Minar and colourful
bazaars.
DAY 3: To Kathmandu
Morning flight to Kathmandu with rest of day at leisure. Three nights
at Hotel Soaltee or similar.
DAY 4: Kathmandu
Full day excursion to Bhaktapur, with its fascinating Durbar Square –
look for the delightful 15th C palace with its 56 windows. Then on to
Boudhnath and Pashupatinath, giving you an insight into this ancient country.
DAY 5: Kathmandu
Morning tour of the city including the Durbar Square followed by a visit
to Swayambhunath Buddhist temple crowned by its golden spire. Rest of
the day at leisure.
DAY 6: To Royal Chitwan
National Park
Morning drive through glorious countryside to Chitwan National Park. Afternoon
game viewing. Rare rhino live here as well as the fearsome Gharial crocodile,
an endangered species now undergoing a breeding programme. Overnight at
Gaida Wildlife Resort.
DAY 7: To Pokhara
Farewell early morning safari before departing to Pokhara. Look for kingfishers,
egrets and ospreys gracing the skies, whilst marsh muggers lie in wait
for unsuspecting deer and antelope. Two nights at Shangri-La Village Resort.
DAY 8: Pokhara
Day free to walk in the shadow of snow-capped Annapurna range. A place
of great beauty and serenity, Pokhara is an ideal place to relax and wander
through the dramatic Himalayan countryside.
DAY 9: To Varanasi
Fly to Kathmandu and connect to Varanasi flight. Visit Sarnath, where
Buddha achieved enlightenment and now a centre for international worship.
Stay at Clarks Varanasi.
DAY 10: To Khajuraho
Dawn boat ride on the Ganges in the midst of hectic religious activity
followed by a walking tour of the city. Fly to Khajuraho. Overnight at
Jass Trident.
DAY 11: To Agra
A fascinating day exploring the unique Khajuraho temples of Indo-Aryan
architecture. The sheer beauty and creative genius is astounding. The
sculptures are vibrant, evocative and sensual! Fly to Agra with two nights
at the Trident Hotel.
DAY 12: Agra
Optional dawn visit to Taj Mahal by cycle rickshaw. Morning sightseeing
tour of Agra visiting the fabled Taj Mahal, a monument perpetuating everlasting
love, Agra Fort (both World Heritage sites), and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah.
Free afternoon with optional sunset visit to see the Taj Mahal.
DAY 13: To Jaipur
After breakfast leave for Jaipur en route visiting the deserted city of
Fatehpur Sikri, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. Optional visit to Bharatpur,
Bird Sanctuary – a World Heritage site. Two nights at Alsisar Haveli.
DAY 14: Jaipur
Morning visit to Amber Fort winding your way up the steep hillside on
an elephant. Followed by an afternoon city tour of Jaipur, including the
City Museum and the Palace of the Winds. Evening optional dinner at Choki
Dhani, a living cultural village for a traditional rustic Rajasthani meal.
DAY 15: To Delhi
Morning at leisure. Late evening Shatabdi Express train to Delhi. Transfer
to international airport for your return flight to London.
DAY 16: To London
Arrive Heathrow.
Suggested extensions:
Ranthambore National Park, Mamallapuram Beach, Mandu and Sanchi.
For further information or to book please call 0208 744 0474
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