Current as of: December 21, 2024 - 09:24
Highlights of Northern India & Nepal Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group
- Destination: India, Nepal
- Programmes: Culture
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Easy & Moderate
- 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
- Accommodation: 2 Superior nights (jungle lodge), 11 Classic nights (hotels), 1 Simple night (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 canoe safari 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.
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.
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
Depart London
Flights usually depart London in the evening.
Arrive Delhi; afternoon sightseeing of Humayun's Tomb and New Delhi
Welcome to Delhi!
The group flight will arrive into Delhi this morning and transfer to our hotel. Those who have made their own flight arrangements, we provide free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport. Please ensure you have provided your flight details to our customer operations team no later than 2 weeks prior to arrival.
In the afternoon (approximately 2pm), we head out to get our bearings and explore the city, beginning with New Delhi, visiting the tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun, which was built by his widow Hamida Banu Begam and is now a Unesco World Heritage site. We then drive past fine colonial buildings in New Delhi, including Rashtrapati Bhawan, 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 dedicated to soldiers who died during the First World War. We return to the hotel for a relaxed evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Bloom Hotel CR Park (or similar)
Morning tour of Old Delhi; drive to Jaipur
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: Vesta Maurya Palace (or similar)
Explore Jaipur; evening free
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.
Rise early, heading out for a dawn walking tour as the Pink City begins to wake. Visiting different chowkris (blocks) within the walled city, we can see the local people start their day and watch the rituals that take place in early morning markets and small temples. We can also interact with different artisan communities, while also sampling local food and drink.
We return to the hotel in time for a later breakfast and to freshen up, before we head out again mid-morning. We visit 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 relax.
Accommodation: Vesta Maurya Palace (or similar)
Drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri
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)
Sunrise at Taj Mahal; visit the Red Fort; overnight train to Varanasi
Rise very early before breakfast 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
Arrive Varanasi; afternoon visit to Sarnath, the site of Buddha's first sermon
On arrival in Varanasi by 6am, 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)
Dawn boat ride on Ganges visiting bathing ghats; free afternoon; witness an evening aarti ceremony
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.
We rise early this morning, just before dawn, and take a boat onto the Ganges. On this trip, we see the city wake up and the extraordinary ghats (the steps leading down to the river), where thousands of Hindu pilgrims come every morning to submerge themselves in the river’s holy waters. 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)
Cross border to Nepal; head to the World Heritage site of Lumbini
We leave the hotel at 6am and board a private bus for our long drive to 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)
Drive to Chitwan National Park
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)
Chitwan National Park; jeep safari and dug-out canoe excursion
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)
Drive to Pokhara with views of the Annapurna range en route
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)
Sunrise over mountains; dawn walk from Sarangkot to Pame
Head into the hills before breakfast for an even better views of the peaks. An early start is required for the clearest view; 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 snacks 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)
Follow Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers to Kathmandu
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)
Optional Everest flight; visit Pashupatinath and Bodnath; free time
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)
End Kathmandu
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.
Post-trip Extensions
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.
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.
Delhi: Bloom Hotel CR Park (night 1)
This three-star property is in the cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Chittaranjan Park in South Delhi, providing easy access to the bustling business districts and cultural hotspots.
Agra to Varanasi: Sleeper train (night 5)
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)
In 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 handcrafted cocktails.
Chitwan: Green Mansions Jungle Resort (nights 10-11)
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 £ 545
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.
There is an option to upgrade your journey between Pokhara to Kathmandu replacing travelling by road with a flight (POK–KTM). Our local team can assist with arrangements in country, including airport transfers should you wish to upgrade. The tour leader always stays with any passengers choosing to take the group bus to Kathmandu and you will take the flight independently.
If you intend to book an internal flight in Nepal, including 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, independent air-safety experts visit Nepal annually 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 to February, 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: Bloom Hotel CR Park, A, 2 & 3, Chittranjan Park Rd, Block A, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi, Delhi 110019, India
Phone: +91 11 4122 5666
Recommended arrival time: To accommodate the afternoon sightseeing, we recommend you arrive at the start hotel no later than 1pm. 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. We provide 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
We provide 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 customers of ours 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.
Optional Equipment
Face mask: air pollution is high in Delhi during November (but also occasionally at the end of October and beginning of December)
Prohibited items to travel with in India: The Indian government has banned e-cigarettes and related products. You can’t buy e-cigarettes in India or bring them into the country. Please ensure you do not pack these in your luggage.
The use of satellite communications devices, for example (but not exclusively) Garmin inReach or any other brand GPS tracking device are prohibited in India and if found, airport authorities will seize the navigation systems stating the device require a valid license/approval form in advance to be able to travel with them. We recommend you exercise caution and refrain from travelling with GPS devices.
To date, we have not received any negative reports about customers travelling with fitness tracking watches, such as Garmin/Apple/Android, and you should be free to travel with these items.
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 here: Indian visa information
Please note, for the overland India to Nepal boarder crossing, you will arrive at the Sanauli boarder and the group will disembark the bus and proceed on foot to the India immigration office. There, the immigration officer will stamp the India leaving date on your passport. After, the group will walk across the border and enter Nepal’s Belahiya (Bhairahawa) Immigration point where you can follow the visa on arrival process.
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/
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
- Completed your ‘Visa On-Arrival’ application form through the online immigration portal (click ‘Visa On-Arrival’) within 14-days prior to arrival at the Belahiya (Bhairahawa) immigration entry point. Please ensure you print and bring the confirmation with you. You can then 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
You 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 visitors. Please confirm all requirements and recommendations with your doctor or travel clinic.
You may also 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.
Additionally, dengue fever and chikungunya are known risks in India. 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.
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 and chikungunya are known risks in Nepal. 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.
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.
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.
Sustainability and Impact
At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.
As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.
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Learn more about our Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan, including our commitment to rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller
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Read about the work of the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation.
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Find out how you can travel more sustainably here.
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.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by Exodus should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by Exodus based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
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.