Name: Highlights of Northern India & Nepal
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.5 (17 reviews)

Highlights of Northern India & Nepal Trip Notes

Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
Destination: India, Nepal
Programmes: Culture
Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Easy & Moderate
16 Days: Flight Inclusive
15 Days: Land Only
Ages: 16+
Trip Code: AIN
Carbon Footprint: 22kg CO2e

Trip Overview

From Delhi to Kathmandu, the Golden Triangle to the Himalaya, experience two captivating countries in one trip

Discover the highlights of North India and Nepal, from pulsating Delhi to the highest mountains on Earth. The cultural wonders on this trip are numerous: sunrise at the Taj Mahal, the pink city of Jaipur, a dawn boat ride on the misty Ganges and a visit to Lumbini, birthplace of Buddha. That’s complemented by natural experiences, including scanning Chitwan National Park for rhinos and gazing at the mighty Himalaya, to create an unforgettable adventure in these two diverse destinations.

At a Glance

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

Highlights

Experience the highlights of two unforgettable destinations: North India and Nepal
Visit all three cities of India’s famed Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur
See the magnificent Taj Mahal in the soft glow of sunrise
Cruise the Ganges at dawn when Hindu pilgrims visit the holy waters
See the mighty Annapurna mountains from a hilltop fort in Pokhara
Search for wildlife on a jeep and canoesafari in Chitwan National Park

Is This Trip for You?

This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

It is not a physically demanding adventure, but some days are 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 10 hours). The stunning scenery, however, compensates for this. We 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.

Walks: A short hike is included in Pokhara where you are driven to a lookout point for spectacular views before descending some steep (in places) village trails and stone steps to Pame. From here, we take a return transfer to Pokhara. Due to the nature of the trails, we recommend wearing walking boots, particularly in wet weather, but sports shoes are not a problem if preferred. The walk is approximately 2hr 30min of constant decent, mostly down steps; if you would prefer not to join, the tour leader can arrange a transfer for a supplement (price subject to the number of people requiring a transfer), which can be paid locally.

Monuments: 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 when work is taking place.

Monsoon season: July and August departures take place in monsoon season, which may impact the availability of activities in Varanasi. If there have been recent heavy rains that considerably raise the water level of the Ganges, boat tours may close 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 is arranged for the morning activity. In the evening, you can visit the main ghat (Dashashwamedh Ghat) to witness the evening ceremony. The Annapurna extension is not available for departures between June and mid-September due to inclement weather in the Annapurna region.

Holi and Diwali festivals: Some departures take place during Holi and Diwali. They are great 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). During Diwali, the festival of lights, people typically illuminate their houses, shops and streets, and celebrate with fireworks.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Group

An English-speaking Indian leader guides the trip throughout, with the assistance of a local driver. Local guides are also used at various sites.

Adult min age: 16

Min group size: 4

Max group size: 16

Itinerary

Land Only

Start City: Delhi
End City: Kathmandu

Land Only Itinerary

We meet as a group for the first time at the hotel and, in the afternoon, explore the city. Beginning with New Delhi, we visit the tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun, which was built by his widow Hamida Banu Begam and is now a World Heritage site. We then drive past fine colonial buildings, including Rashtrapati Bhavan, a 320-acre (130ha) estate built by British architect Edwin Lutyens in 1931, which comprises the official residence of the President of India; Parliament House; and India Gate, a memorial to soldiers who died during the First World War. We return to the hotel for a free evening.

Accommodation: Hotel Pooja Palace (or similar)

Continue exploring the capital after breakfast, starting outside Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, before being guided through the narrow streets of Old Delhi, through the Kinari Bazar (or we can explore by rickshaw – additional cost). We finish the Old Delhi tour at Jama Masjid and learn about the history of the building. Those interested can enter the mosque (fees may apply).

In the early afternoon, we drive (approximately five to seven hours, depending on traffic) to the Pink City of Jaipur.

Accommodation: LilyPool – The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy a full day to explore Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and one of the most attractive cities in India. Built in the late 18th century, it is a planned city of broad sandstone avenues that were later painted pink. First, we visit the City Palace, once a Maharaja residence and now a museum containing rare manuscripts, paintings, royal garments and weapons. Nearby is one of the most intriguing sites in India, Jantar Mantar (Jaipur Observatory), an assembly of immense marble-and-brass astronomical instruments in a pleasant garden. We also see the impressive landmark, the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds).

Then travel just outside the main city to the Amber Palace, an imposing hilltop fort above a lake with large courtyards, finely decorated interiors and a Chamber of Mirrors.

The evening is free for you to explore. You could take this opportunity to pick up a gift or two for home: Jaipur is a hub of many handicrafts, including durries (woven rugs), carpets, printed cloth, semi-precious stones and leatherwear.

Accommodation: LilyPool – The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

We begin by driving to Agra via the deserted ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri. Formally the capital of the Mughal empire, this wonderfully preserved ghost town was constructed by Emperor Akbar between 1570 and 1585 and reflects his ideals in art, religion and architecture. This impressive and well-preserved citadel became his capital in 1571, after the blessing of a local Moslem holy man correctly predicted the birth of a longed-for son, his successor the Emperor Jehangir. The mosque, designed to hold 10,000 worshippers, the palaces, residences and halls of audience are built in decorative red sandstone. Akbar soon left Fatehpur Sikri to secure his outlying territories, leaving this city much as we see it today. The site is one of the most atmospheric in northern India and its position on a ridge overlooking the modern village below, and its wonderful state of preservation, give us a taste of its majestic past.

Accommodation: Taj Vilas (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Rise very early to see the incredible spectacle of sunrise over the Taj Mahal – an experience you’re never likely to forget. The Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built the landmark in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. The New World Wonder is serenely beautiful and never fails to amaze; the white-marble exterior changes colour according to the position of the sun and is made even more beautiful by the rich interior detail. Within striking distance is the imposing Red Fort of Akbar, whose mighty sandstone walls enclose the white-marble Pearl Mosque and the palaces, halls, courtyards and fountains of his sons and successors, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. It is here that the latter spent his last years, imprisoned by his own son Aurangzeb. Agra is also a hub for a wide variety of handicrafts including inlaid and carved marble, carpets and clothes and there should be time for shopping.

In the evening, we head to Tundla station to catch our overnight train to Varanasi – an excellent opportunity to experience the famed railways of India and interact with the local people.

Accommodation: Sleeper train

Meals included: Breakfast

On arrival in Varanasi, we transfer to our hotel. Rooms may not be available until midday but efforts are made to make it earlier if possible.

In the afternoon, we visit the nearby Sarnath Temple. The main monument here is the Dhamekh Stupa, the spot where Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon. The evening is free to relax.

Accommodation: Hotel Surya (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Varanasi, on the Ganges, is one of the holiest cities in India and a key destination in Hinduism: there are thousands of pilgrims, wandering holy men (Sadhus), religious leaders and casual visitors. Explore the narrow lanes and many temples or watch the Hindu ceremonies that take place around the clock.

Just before dawn, we take a boat onto the Ganges to see the extraordinary ghats (the steps leading down to the river). Every day, thousands of Hindu pilgrims come to this 3mi (5km) stretch to submerge themselves in the holy waters of the river. In the evening, witness an aarti ceremony from the banks, in which priests wave lamps, chant and ring bells and devotees join the rituals.

Accommodation: Hotel Surya (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Board a private bus and make an early departure for Nepal. We drive across the northern plains, passing through a few towns and lots of villages. Leave our bus at the Saunali border and walk (approximately 1,640ft/500m) through customs and immigration to Nepal.

In Nepal, we enter the terai, the narrow plain running along the southern breadth of the country. We drive (approximately one hour) to Lumbini, birthplace of the Buddha, where we spend the night. The total driving time today is approximately 12 hours.

Accommodation: Buddha Maya hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Early this morning there is a short (optional) rickshaw ride around Lumbini gardens. The Buddha was born here, and the area is being developed into a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists from all over the world.

Travelling east and parallel to the mountains, we reach Chitwan (approximately a four-hour drive), where we spend two nights. The park, with jungle and thick forest, was once a royal hunting ground but was made a conservation area in 1973. During your stay, you can enjoy an optional ox-cart ride in Tharu village or an evening dance performance, both providing a glimpse into the fascinating lives of the local people.

Accommodation: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chitwan National Park and the surrounding forest cover 356sqmi (923sqkm) of the terai and afford excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities. Here you have an excellent chance of seeing Indian one-horned rhinos, sambar and chital deer, langur and rhesus monkeys, mongooses, jackals, otters and crocodiles. The more elusive animals include tigers, leopards, sloth bears and Indian bison. More than 500 bird species have also been recorded here.

Wildlife activities are managed and escorted by experienced naturalist guides and included in your stay is a jeep safari and dug-out canoe excursion. Birdwatching outings can also be arranged.

Accommodation: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s journey to Pokhara is 87mi (140km) and takes four to five hours. We follow the gorge of the Narayani River and soon we are in the Himalaya foothills. The scenery changes dramatically from the forests and farmlands of the terai to steep, terraced hills. As we near Pokhara, we begin to see the magnificent Annapurna mountains, part of the Himalaya range. At only 3,280ft (1,000m), among semi-tropical plants and with a delightfully warm climate, it is much closer to the main Himalaya peaks than Kathmandu. Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Peak) dominates the skyline, especially on a clear morning. We stay in a simple hotel near Phewa Lake, with a wide choice of restaurants and other facilities nearby.

Accommodation: Dahlia Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Head into the hills after breakfast for even better views of the peaks. An early morning start is required for the clearest view, but once there, the whole Annapurna range can be seen with virtually no intervening hills.

We start by driving (approximately 40 minutes) to Sarangkot; from there, it’s a short walk to the remains of a hilltop fort that overlooks the lake – one of the best viewpoints for Machhapuchhare, the most treasured mountain in the region. After enjoying time here, walk back towards Pokhara, descending steps and trail paths, finishing just before at Pame (approximately 2hr 30min walk), where you can stop for lunch before a short transfer back to our hotel.

For many, Pokhara is a place to relax, enjoying a spot beside the beautiful lake. This afternoon, sit back and take in the surroundings or perhaps rent a rowboat or bicycle for a few hours exploring the lake at a leisurely pace.

Accommodation: Dahlia Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Distance covered: 3mi (5km)

Activity hours: 2hr 30min

Meals included: Breakfast

Leave early for the long drive to Kathmandu, along the Chinese-built road running parallel to the main Himalaya range. The distance is only 125mi (200km) but it is a slow climb through the mountains and ongoing road-widening construction along the route plus some bumpy conditions in places mean the journey takes 10 to 12 hours. The views, however, are stunning as we follow the Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers, passing numerous villages and terraces stretching up the hillside. We arrive in Kathmandu this evening and check into our centrally located hotel.

Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

We have today to explore Kathmandu and the valley. In the early morning, you could take a scenic flight to see Everest (this can be booked and paid for on arrival in Kathmandu; see the Extra Expenses and Spending Money section of the Trip Notes for costs).

Today there is a half-day sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath, the most important Hindu temple in the valley, and Bodnath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. The rest of the time is free for individual exploration. You may like to visit Durbar Square with its old royal palace and intricately carved temples, or Swayambhunath, a hilltop stupa home to hundreds of macaques.

Kathmandu also offers many shopping opportunities: clothes, trinkets, Tibetan and Nepalese handicrafts and superb bookshops. It also has a wide variety of restaurants serving some of the best food from the sub-continent and you can find wonderful pizzas and apple pie.

Accommodation: Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

The adventure comes to an end this morning at check-out. Unless, of course, you’d like to join our exciting extension, in which you spend four days hiking in the Annapurna region, taking in magnificent mountain views as you pass through Gurung villages. This extension would commence from day 13, starting in Pokhara. Speak to your sales representative to book.

Meals included: Breakfast

Extend Your Trip

Annapurna Extension

A four-day trek is the perfect introduction to hiking in Nepal and can easily be done towards the end of your main tour. The route takes us through the foothills of the Annapurna region, one of the most spectacular of the Himalaya massifs. We also pass through Gurung villages among the steeply terraced fields with splendid mountain vistas. Find a more detailed itinerary here.

Please ask your sales representative for more details. Prices listed are starting prices.

Please note, the extension is not available from June to early September due to the potential seasonal monsoon weather in the Annapurna region.

Price per person

£ 499

Mandatory Single Supplement

£ 95

Accommodation

Hotels, lodges and overnight train

In this cultural adventure through northern India and Nepal, we spend 11 nights in hotels, two nights in lodges and one night on a sleeper train.

The accommodations typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable places we stay on this trip.

Agra to Varanasi: Sleeper train (night 5)

Highlights of Northern India & Nepal

Experience an icon of travel: the Indian sleeper train! Our journey takes us from Agra to Varanasi, skipping the long drive, while also allowing us to interact with the local people and sample the snacks often sold on board. The accommodation is basic: we normally stay in two-tier sleepers, the compartments sectioned off from the aisle by privacy curtains. Seats are allocated at the time the tickets are issued, so the whole group isn’t always together; however, our tour leader is an expert at making the journey as hassle-free as possible and will regularly check in with you.

Varanasi: Hotel Surya (nights 6-7)

Highlights of Northern India & Nepal

Encompassing a property built for King Kaiser of Nepal in 1818, this 75-room hotel has a long history of housing VIPs. It now offers award-winning gardens plus a swimming pool, restaurant specialising in Indian cuisine, and the Sol Haveli Bar, which serves hand-crafted cocktails.

Chitwan: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (nights 10-11)

Highlights of Northern India & Nepal

On the edge of a community forest, Green Mansions offers traditional cottages encompassed by nature. The highlight may well be their in-house team of naturalists, who bring the landscape to life with their expertise. Other pluses include a pool with half-sunken loungers and a multi-cuisine restaurant where dishes include produce from the hotel garden.

Worth knowing

Hotels in India and Nepal usually do not have heating as there are only a couple of months when the weather can get cold. You can, however, request more blankets if needed or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.
It’s common for hotels in India to have limited times in the day for hot water use to save energy. If you find your shower is cold, please let your leader or reception know so they can make sure the water heater is on.
Within the sleeper train, you may be sharing a compartment of four beds with members of the public depending on how the seats are allocated.
Single accommodation supplement excludes sleeper trains.

Single supplement from £ 485

Food & Drink

All breakfasts, two lunches and two dinners are included.

Allow the equivalent of US$24 per day for other meals. You can eat out very cheaply in India and Nepal, but if you go to more expensive restaurants, you will spend more than the suggested amount. In most towns there is a good choice between Indian, Chinese and Western food. If you are a vegetarian, India and Nepal are probably two of the best destinations you can visit. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A (large!) bottle of beer is approximately US$4.80. Drinking water is provided in large containers in our vehicle, so please bring a refillable water bottle with you. Where meals are not included, the leader will encourage people to try certain restaurants and street food vendors. They can make recommendations that will boost small businesses and celebrate local specialties. In India, we can even see how some food and drinks, such as masala chai (tea), samosa (mashed potato snacks), jalebe (Indian doughnuts) and lassi (yoghurt drink), are made.

Transport

We use air-conditioned private minibuses in India and Nepal. The journey between Agra and Varanasi is on an air-conditioned overnight sleeper train where the seats turn into single beds. Linen and pillows are normally provided, though you may like to bring your own sheet-sleeping bag.

If you intend to book the optional Everest sightseeing flight, please refer to the following information about flying in Nepal.

Flying in Nepal

The mountainous terrain in Nepal is often subject to changeable weather, which makes flying conditions complex. In addition, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of Western nations. The EU chose to highlight the poor safety record in Nepal in December 2013 by including all Nepalese registered airlines on the EU ‘banned list’ preventing them from flying in EU airspace. While no Nepalese-registered airlines currently fly within the EU, the EU instigated this ban to highlight the risk of flying in Nepal to EU citizens. Flying within Nepal is, therefore, a known risk and we encourage you to consider this carefully. We suggest you refer to the following sources.

The current travel advice for Nepal issued by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office
The Air Safety Network entry for Nepal

In response to concerns over this safety record, Exodus arranges for independent air-safety experts to visit Nepal annually on our behalf to assess the suitability of the available carriers. We then restrict our use of airlines to only those approved in this audit. In emergency situations, we will need to use helicopters and we also have a list of approved helicopter carriers. Please consider all the information above when deciding to book an optional Everest sightseeing flight.

Weather & Seasonality

From October to April, the days are normally warm to hot and nights cool or mild. Humidity is very low with little or no rain.

In March, April and October, it can get very hot during the day. Evenings in Delhi and Kathmandu can be surprisingly cool.

The summer months in North India and Nepal are hot and humid with monsoon season in July and August. Heavy downpours during the monsoon typically last for a couple of hours, bringing relief from the heat and humidity of previous months.

It gets very cold in the early mornings and evenings in December and January, so warm clothes are essential. Fog is also a possibility during this period. Please note, nightly temperatures in Kathmandu can be very cold and only just above freezing in December and January.

Joining Instructions

Key information

Start hotel: Hotel Pooja Palace, 15A/11, W.E.A., Puja Park, (Near Karol Bagh metro station), Karol Bagh, New Delhi-110005 (India)
Phone: +91 11 25745275
Recommended arrival time: Check‐in times are normally from around midday
Airport: Delhi Airport (DEL)

Getting to the start hotel

The start hotel is approximately 35 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Catching your return flight

Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) from the end hotel.

Unless specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers may be shared with other Exodus customers on the same flight, or on a flight with similar arrival times. All those taking advantage of the free airport transfers must provide full flight details for both arrival and departure in advance.

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Location start: Delhi
Location end: Kathmandu

What To Take

Essential Equipment

Sunhat and sunglasses
Sunscreen and lip salve with sun protection
Mosquito repellent
Light casual clothing
Warm sweater/fleece
Waterproof/windproof jacket
Backpack for the day
Torch (flashlight)
Comfortable sports shoes/walking shoes
Sandals/flip-flops
Anti-bacterial hand gel
Small personal first-aid kit
Additional warm base layer, scarf and gloves (for winter departures)
Swimwear
Padlocks/cable locks

Clothing for men and women should cover shoulders and be on or below the knee. Women especially should dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention and not to cause offence; vests, tight-fitting trousers (pants), short skirts and shorts are not recommended.

Please note, you do not need a sleeping bag for this trip.

As you will be visiting Chitwan, please bring some long-sleeved neutral-coloured clothing. This helps prevent mosquito bites and improves your chances of seeing wildlife, which are scared of bright colours.

Please note: The Indian government has banned e-cigarettes and related products. You cannot buy e-cigarettes in India or bring them into the country. Please ensure you do not pack these in your luggage.

Practical Information

Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months when you submit your application for a visa. You should also ensure your passport is up to date, is valid for the entire length of your stay and (for Nepal) you have completed the emergency contact details page inside your passport.

Visa

India

To avoid possible problems at immigration, make sure your passport is valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of entry into India.

Travellers from the UK, US, CA and EU normally need a visa to enter India. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/india
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/india
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/India.html

Travellers eligible for an e-visa, which includes those from the UK, US, CA and EU, can apply at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.

For more information on applying for your Indian Visa, including details required for your start hotel and local reference contacts, please click on this link: Indian Visa Information

Nepal

You can obtain your visa in advance or on arrival. The Immigration Department of Nepal has suspended visas on arrival for certain nationalities – please check if this applies to you with your nearest embassy or consulate.

Visa in advance

Apply for this through your local consulate or embassy. Further details on this option can be found here:

For UK passport holders: https://uk.nepalembassy.gov.np/visa/
For US passport holders: https://us.nepalembassy.gov.np/tourist-visa/
For Canadian passport holders: https://ca.nepalembassy.gov.np/tourist-visa-application/

When applying for your visa in advance, the Nepalese government has an online application system (see links above for more info), but it is currently only accepting payments through Nepalese payment channels. Once the online form is completed, the applicant is required to print out the form and either send it, together with the passport, to the embassy, or attend in person.

Visa on arrival

When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, there will be three lines. If you have already secured your visa, go straight to the Immigration line. If not:
Fill in a tourist visa form at the electronic kiosks. After inserting your passport, the machine will automatically fill out an application form, take an electronic photograph of you and print a paper slip. If the machine won’t read your passport, complete the details manually using the touchscreen. We recommend taking a passport photo with you just in case.
Top tip: This process can be completed through the online immigration portal (click ‘Visa On-Arrival’) within 14-days prior to arrival in Kathmandu, helping you to avoid lengthy queues at the kiosks when you come through immigration – ensure you print and bring the confirmation with you. If you have completed your visa on arrival form in advance, go directly to the visa fees counters with your printed confirmation and skip the kiosk queues.
Proceed to the visa fees collection counter and pay the visa fee (in cash, if possible). Make sure to keep the receipt. Card payments are not always possible, so paying in cash is easiest, most currencies are accepted but US dollars are preferred.
Go to the relevant immigration desk and present your tourist visa form, payment receipt and passport to obtain your 15-, 30- or 90-day visa stamp. Please check you have been given the correct visa duration.

Vaccinations and Health

India

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tuberculosis. The risk of malaria is slight, but you may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice.

You will also require a yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Proof of a polio vaccination may also be required by some travellers. Please confirm all requirements and recommendations with your doctor or travel clinic.

Additionally, dengue, a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, is a known risk in India. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, so we strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Some of our India trips spend time at altitude. In regions over approximately 6,560ft (2,000m), there is little risk of mosquito-borne diseases. For trips above 9,840ft (3,000m), there is a risk of being affected by acute mountain sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please see the Trip Notes for further information.

Nepal

There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, cholera, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tuberculosis. You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Some travellers may also need proof of a polio vaccination. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.

There is little to no risk of malaria in Nepal; therefore, antimalarial tablets are not usually advised although may be considered for certain high-risk groups. You may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice.

Additionally, dengue fever, a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes, is a known risk in Nepal with an outbreak in September 2022. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis, so take extra precautions (such as wearing full-length trousers, long sleeves and applying insect repellent during the day, dawn and dusk) to prevent being bitten.

Most of our trips to Nepal go to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip Notes for further advice on AMS.

When trekking at altitude, and particularly in cold weather, there is a higher chance of developing a cough (sometimes referred to here as the Khumbu cough) or cold symptoms. These symptoms could be a result of inhaling cold mountain air or dust (in the Everest region). You can mitigate against picking up coughs and colds by washing your hands with soap and water at available opportunities and using hand sanitiser. Also wear a buff over your neck and mouth when walking at altitude, particularly in colder weather, which will help limit cold, dry air entering your airways and keep your neck and chest warm.

The risk of malaria on this trip is slight, but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice.

Dengue fever and/or Chikungunya are known risks in places visited on this trip. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Local Time

India's time zone: Asia/Kolkata (UTC +05:30)

Nepal's time zone: Asia/Kathmandu (UTC +05:45)

Electricity

India and Nepal’s electricity: Plug types C (two round pins), D (three round pins) and M (three round pins) – 230V, 50Hz

Load shedding (planned temporary power cuts) occur regularly throughout towns and cities in Nepal.

Money

India's currency: Indian rupee (INR). Please note, it is illegal to import or export rupees. Do not accept torn or very dirty Indian banknotes from banks or in change as they will almost certainly not be accepted as legal tender in India. You can normally change money back from rupees into US dollars or British pounds at the departure airport, but you must produce an exchange receipt showing that you changed money in India.

Nepal's currency: Nepalese rupee (NPR) It is illegal to import or export rupees, but foreign currency is not limited, provided it is declared on arrival. Keep your change receipts, as you will need them if you want to change rupees back into hard currency at Kathmandu airport.

ATM Availability

ATMs are widely available throughout this trip (Delhi, Jaipur, Varansi, Pokhara and Kathmandu). Visa and Mastercard are best, but you should not rely on these all the time, so please take some cash with you. Remember to inform your bank before departure that you are travelling to India and Nepal and carry the relevant telephone number with you in case they put a block on your card. You can pay with credit cards in bigger shops all over India and Nepal. You can bring US dollars, British pounds or euros.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

Many sites, particularly in India, charge a small fee for video cameras and you should allow approximately US$9 for these.

We recommend you allow approximately US$8 per day (at least) for personal expenditures, such as soft drinks.

India has very good shopping opportunities, especially for locally made goods, and during your trip it is highly likely your guides will take you to emporiums and workshops where the goods are made. Many people find this a great opportunity to buy local handicrafts, silk and carpets. Guides often assume visitors want to go shopping, it is very much part of the culture, but if you do not wish to go, please make this clear to your local guide at the time.

Optional excursions

Entrance fee for Jama Masjid (Day 2): 300 rupees (approximately US$4) per person
Delhi old town rickshaw ride (Day 2): 200 rupees (approximately US$3) per person, including tipping
Pokhara rowboat hire (Day 12): Four to five-person capacity with driver, approximately US$15 per hour per boat and eight to 10-person capacity US$30 per hour per boat
Pokhara mountain bike hire (Day 12): US$20 per day
Durbar Square entrance fee (Day 14): 1,000 Nepalese rupees (approximately US$10) per person
Everest sightseeing flight in Kathmandu (Day 14): The cost and timings of this will be provided locally by your leader. It is approximately US$245 per person, including both airport transfers by private vehicle. Please note, if paying by card, there is a 4percent bank fee added to the cost. If you intend to book the optional Everest sightseeing flight please refer to the ‘Transport’ section for information about the safety of flying in Nepal.

Tipping

Tipping is part of the culture in India and Nepal; however, tipping can often be an awkward affair, especially when in an unfamiliar country. Therefore, your tour leader will offer to arrange and look after a group tipping kitty, which is used to tip hotel staff, local sightseeing guides, bus drivers plus any other support staff used during the trip.

Your leader will suggest how much to contribute, depending on group size, but it is usually around 3,000 Indian rupees (approximately US$44) per person for India and 4,000 Nepalese rupees (approximately US$38) per person for Nepal based on the maximum group size of 16 passengers. For smaller groups, the leader may ask to collect more than the suggested amount relative to the group size, this is to assist with covering the standard tipping expectations for things like the local guides, drivers, and hotel staff (which, are generally fixed amounts no matter the group size).

For departures that travel within India during Holi Festival (14 March 2025) your tour leader will look to arrange some activities for you to enjoy and join in with the festivities. There is a supplement between 600 and 1,600 rupees (approximately US$7-US$20) per person, which is usually deducted from the kitty. Price depends upon the location and festival inclusions for Holi celebration.

At any time during the trip, your leader will be happy to show you an account of how the kitty is being distributed. Please note, for smaller groups the leader may have to collect more than the above amount.

Tipping of leaders is not included in the kitty and is at your own discretion. If you wish to show your appreciation, around US$3-US$4.50 per person per day would be appreciated.

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips that improve life for the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

The use of a local guide means our groups are well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food, and by supporting other local enterprises.
The hotels we stay in are dedicated to hiring local staff, this benefits the surrounding community by providing employment opportunities and income alternatives where they may be otherwise hard to come by.
Our local partners share a commitment to projects that benefit their communities.
This tour encourages guests to visit local cafes and restaurants and use markets to purchase traditional crafts.
It was not until 2005 that the ancient tradition of chhaupadi (banishing menstruating women and girls to huts or sheds during their period) was made illegal in Nepal. In rural parts of the country, menstruation is still a taboo subject. Since 2018, Exodus has supported the Freedom Kitbag Project, providing reusable sanitary wear and education in reproductive health to many hundreds of women and to their wider communities.
Exodus has had a deep connection with Nepal since the 1980s and over the years has supported, and continues to support, many Himalayan community projects, including the High Altitude Workers Welfare Association, providing solar cookers, smokeless stoves and running medical camps in hard-to-reach communities, to name but a few.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels.
By travelling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
On this trip, we visit national heritage sites and the entrance fees included generates income, which is used for the upkeep and development of these important monuments and nature parks.
Our trips adhere to ABTA’s industry-leading animal welfare guidelines to ensure the best possible practices with regard to working animals and wildlife viewing. Our animal welfare policy can be found here.
We work with our partners on the ground to proactively eliminate or reduce waste, for example eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles and instead providing refills for reusable bottles.
Where possible on this trip, paper bags are used as an alternative to single-use plastics.
As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, Exodus supports the TOFTigers’ campaign to protect biodiversity and restore habitats across India and Nepal’s national parks through the wise use of sustainable tourism.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
In some restaurants there is the option to have plant-based meals.
This trip favours locally owned and run accommodation.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own reusable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.
A vegetarian diet is common in India and Nepal. The staple diet is dal baht, which comes in various forms but generally includes lentil dal, vegetable curry, and rice.

Cultural respect:

Best to ask before photographing people, ceremonies, or sacred sites.
It’s polite to use only your right hand when eating something without cutlery and when handing money and small objects to someone else.
Before entering a holy place, remove your shoes and give them to the shoe minder. When you collect your shoes again give the minder a few rupees. You’re permitted to wear socks in most places of worship.
Religious etiquette advises against touching the heads of local people or directing the soles of your feet at a person, shrine, or an image of a deity. You should not touch a carving of a deity.
When visiting religious sites, dress and behave respectfully, don’t wear shorts and sleeveless tops – this applies to both men and women. Head cover for women and sometimes men is required in some places of worship.
Generally, it is best to dress modestly throughout your time in India and Nepal as a sign of respect.
Making the effort to fit in is invariably appreciated so being aware of these aspects of cultural respect will assist you during your travels in India and Nepal.

Important Information

Your safe participation

When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.

Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.

By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.

How to Book

Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
Complete your booking and payment

When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

After booking

You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.

Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.

Trip Note validity

These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

Licensing

Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.

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