Golden Triangle with Nepal

You land at Jaipur airport and after clearing Immigrations and Customs are met in the Arrival Hall by our colleague carrying the paging board with your names on it.

Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
 
In the afternoon you enjoy a walk through the old bazaar and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city.

In the evening you have the option of going to a local cinema Raj Mandir to watch a Bollywood movie.
 
Overnight at hotel.

You have a full day of sightseeing ahead you.

When prince, soldier and astronomer Sawai Jai Singh II built the pink harmonious city of Jaipur in 1727, he did it in accordance with a treatise on town planning and architecture, the Shilpa Shastra that is timely even today. In 1876, the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria visited India on a tour. Since pink denotes the color of hospitality, Maharaja Ram Singh of Jaipur painted the whole city pink in colour to welcome the guests. It was then that Lord Albert exclaimed Jaipur to be a ‘Pink City’, and hence the name. Today many establishments and buildings still sport this colour and the name has stuck.

You start with a visit to Amber Fort.

Hill forts were always important to the Rajput rulers. Belonging to the Hindu “Kshatriya” or warrior class, they believed in the line from the sacred holy book, the Purana that “a fort is the strength of a king”. They built a number of such forts all over the state of Rajasthan; some made for purely defensive purposes, but most built as fort palaces. Amber is one of the finest examples of a fort palace, built similar in style to the surrounding richly decorated Mughal courts. Inside the Fort you must visit the Jagmandir or the ‘Hall of Victory’. Inside the Jagmandir is the famous Sheesh Mahal –‘Mirror Palace’ – a room with all the four walls and ceiling completely embedded with glittering mirror pieces, which were specially imported from Belgium during that period.

Our value add-on: After Amber, also visit the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing. The museum chronicles the regeneration of hand block printing techniques in Rajasthan using traditional methods and makes a great stop.

In the afternoon visit the sprawling City Palace, a superb marriage of the Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture. The seven storied Chandra Mahal (Moon Palace) is a sprawling complex with multiple courtyards, public buildings, astronomical observatory and zenana mahals (harems). Within the palace complex are several museums; including an interesting textile gallery exhibiting a fine selection of textiles and costumes from the royal collection.

From the City Palace you enter the extraordinary “Jantar Mantar”, the astronomical observatory built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1827. Roughly translated the name means “The Formula of Instruments”. This is one of five observatories he built in northern India. The instruments resembling massive futuristic structures are actually highly sophisticated instruments which are accurate even today.

Then drive though the busy streets for a photography stop at Hawa Mahal, the ornate pink façade an icon of the city. This five storied high “screen” composed of projected windows, balconies protected by fine latticed screens was destined to enable the ladies of the harem to observe the lively street scenes of the city from a position of privacy.

You return to your hotel by evening.

Overnight at hotel.

After breakfast, you check out and drive to your next destination, Agra. The drive will take approx. 6 hrs. excluding stops.

After approx. four hours outside Jaipur is your first stop, Fatehpur Sikri. A typical visit to Sikri takes about an hour and is worth the time.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fatehpur Sikri was temporarily the capital of the Mughal Empire under Akbar the Great. Built by Emperor Akbar to honor the Saint Salim Chisti who foretold the birth of Akbars’ son and heir, this structure is constructed entirely in vibrant red sandstone, architecturally it draws its inspiration from Hindu, Persian and Islamic styles.

Sikri was the first planned city of the Mughals. The sloping levels of the city,  connected into terraces, were utilised for various complexes such as Jami masjid, Buland-Darwazah and tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti; Khwabgah, Diwan-i-Khass, and Diwan-i-Am. The efficient system of drainage and water-supply adopted here suggest an extremely intelligent town-planning by the Mughal emperor but eventually, a lack of adequate water supply for a whole city lead to its abandonment 14 years later.

There are no more stops  now on the remaining drive to Agra, and you arrive by evening.
Transfer directly to your hotel and check-in. Your room is booked for the night.

Overnight at hotel.

Your city exploration starts this morning after an early breakfast.

Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire – giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat (seat of the Emperor). Today, a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices of red sandstone and white marble, narrow gullies and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals still retains.

You start the tour at the Taj Mahal. This stunning mausoleum immortalized the name of Shah Jahan’s last wife Mumtaz Mahal, “light of the palace”. Built by Indian artisans and artisans from neighboring Islamic countries, it is aptly described by the poet laureate Tagore as “A tear on the face of eternity”. Decorated with a mosaic of semi-precious stones and Persian calligraphy recreating verses from the Koran, the mausoleum is an important place of pilgrimage since the empress died in childbirth making her a martyr. Prayers are said and passages from Koran are constantly recited in the mosque and cenotaph chamber.

After the Taj Mahal you drive to the mighty Agra fort. When the Mughal Emperor Akbar established his supremacy in Northern India, he began his first architectural venture, rebuilding the fort as a beautiful fort palace.

Post sightseeing leave for Delhi. Your drive will take approx. three hours. Check in.

Overnight in your hotel in Delhi.

New Delhi is the capital of India and a microcosm of the country. It is a modern metropolis which still preserves its traditional values and manages its multiple personalities effortlessly, making it a perfect gateway city to any North India journey.

Historians believe that through Delhi’s 1000 year old history, the city has been destroyed and rebuilt eight times, each time built by a new dynasty/ruler. As a result Delhi grew and evolved, absorbing different religions, diverse cultures, both foreign and indigenous, and yet functioning as one organic entity and becoming the culturally secular city you see today.

Your guide meets you in the lobby of your hotel after breakfast.
 
The sightseeing starts in Old Delhi, the former Imperial capital. Here, you trade your vehicle for cycle rickshaws and enjoy a ride through the crowded streets of the 300 years’ old Chandini Chowk market. It is said that the moonlight reflecting on the canal, earned it its name, ‘Chandini (Moonlit) Chowk (square). Today it is a busy market selling an extraordinary variety of items – silver, jewelry, aromatic spices, leather, fruit and vegetables. Apothecaries sell home grown medicinal items, and roadside dentists display their bizarre array of equipment and false teeth. It is a wonderful introduction into the world of organized chaos of India!

Disembark at Jama Masjid, believed to be the largest in India and Shah Jahan’s last architectural legacy. Originally it was called Masjid-I-Jahanum which means “The mosque commanding a view of the world”. Begun in 1644, the mosque was not completed until 1658. It has three great gateways, four angle towers and two minarets standing 40m high constructed of alternating vertical strips of red sandstone and white marble.

After your visit you board your waiting vehicle and drive to Raj Ghat. A simple square platform of black marble marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948. It is surrounded by a beautiful park with labelled trees planted by notables like Queen Elizabeth II, USA President Eisenhower, Ho Chi Minh and various others.

In the afternoon drive past Lutyens New Delhi. Known as ‘Rajpath’ or ’Kings Way’- the wide tree lined avenues served as the capital city for the former British Empire. Among the buildings you drive past are the Secretariat buildings, Parliament House, Presidential Palace (Rashtrapathi Bhawan), and India Gate, a memorial to 82,000 soldiers of the undivided Indian Army who died in the period 1914–21.
 
From here drive to Qutub Minar complex which has many historic monuments. The first mosque in India – The Quwwat-Ul- Islam – built from the dressed and carved stones of demolished temples lies in this complex. It establishes the political victory of Islam in Northern India. The Qutb Minar itself began  in 1199 by Qutb ud din Aibak and was completed by his successors. This fluted elegant tower is decorated with elegant balconies and carvings.
 
Return to your hotel by evening.
 
Overnight at hotel.

After breakfast, transfer to Delhi International airport to baord your flight for Kathmandu.

Welcome to Nepal! On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport you will be greeted by our tour representative in the arrival hall. Proceed for a sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath at the Bagmavati River on the way to your hotel.

Kathmandu is a captivating embrace to be discovered while travelling in Nepal. It packs all the most amazing places and explorations to fascinate its visitors: from old-world streets, rich art and architecture dating back to centuries, to the finest temples and delicate handicrafts, the hustle and bustle of its colourful markets and top must try Nepali food.

Afterwards drive to Pashupatinath Temple for sightseeing followed by interaction with Sadhu, a Hindu holy man, and then attend the evening Aarti Ceremony, lighting of lamps in devotion.

Pashupatinath is Nepal’s most important Hindu Temple and is situated on the banks of the holy river Bagmati. As the powerhouse of Hinduism, many pilgrims and devotees are coming here for blessings and are also choosing to be cremated on the banks of the holy river.

Proceed further from Pashupatinath temple to your hotel for your check-in.
 
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Breakfast: Hotel in Kathmandu

This morning, go for a sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square along with a heritage walk through its mediaeval alleys.
Bhaktapur is situated 13 km to the east of Kathmandu. Bhaktapur translates to “place of devotees” and it is a very old and fascinating place, rich in history and Buddhist symbolism. Bhaktapur Durbar Square displays the most beautiful of Nepal’s ancient charms, especially the culture and work of Newari people. Strolling through its old traditional streets feels like going back in time. Walk further South to reach Pottery Square – here you can admire the beautiful handicrafts made by hand and you can also give it a try and see how good you are at spinning a clay pot.

Optional:

Visit a local family to gain insight into the lifestyle of the locals. The visit will include:

• Home Visit with Newari Traditional Welcome:
• The guests will be offered typical Newari traditional welcome with a Pyala (clay cup) of Rakshi, local spirit made from rice.
• The guests will be given a brief description on how Nepali people in general live and utilize their house for various purposes, and how they live together in harmony.
• A complete tour of the house

In the afternoon, go for a sightseeing tour of Bouddhanath Stupa.

Bouddhanath Stupa is the largest stupa in Nepal, rich in Buddhist symbolism and gathering daily thousands of pilgrims. Watch people coming here to light butter lamps, sing mantras, spin prayer wheels or simply stroll around the dome. In the evening, this place offers an amazing view with thousands of butter lamps lit up around the stupa.

Post your full day city sightseeing proceed to your hotel.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Breakfast: Hotel in Kathmandu

After your breakfast transfer to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport for your short flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival you continue to your hotel for check in.

A nature’s gem and one of Nepal’s most spectacular locations, Pokhara seduces with its amazing mountaneous surroundings and the charming Lake Phewa. Amongst the many activities that Pokhara has to offers, such as fishing, paragliding, or walking around, admiring the mountain peaks mirrored in the calm waters of Phewa Lake, is simply an unforgettable experience.

Afternoon at leisure to explore the area or relax in the hotel.

Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara.

Breakfast: Hotel in Pokhara

Early morning drive to Sarangkot hill which offers a fantastic view of the Annpurna mountain range of the Himlayas (subject to weather conditions). You will see the Fish Tail and do a short kike for guests that enjoy the same. This stunning setting at sunrise you will enjoy with a cup of chai tee and snacks.

Upon your return to the hotel you have your late breakfast.

Post late breakfast you will continue your sightseeing of Pokhara including Davi’s falls, the Tibetan camp, the International Mountain Museum as well as the lakeside and local market of Pokhara before you enjoy an afternoon boat ride on Fewa Lake.

Return to your hotel.

Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara.

Breakfast: Hotel in Pokhara.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel to fly back to Kathmandu.

Upon arrival at Kathmandu, transfer to the hotel.

In the afternoon/evening take a one hour Rickshaw drive through the bustling and colourful bazaars of Kathmandu to reach Thamel.

In Thamel you will feel the vibrant pulse of Kathmandu and explore the many shops, bars and restaurants. Spend a couple of hours for shopping, drinking and dining. Sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful view of the sunset coming over Kathmandu.
 
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Breakfast: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Today your tour in Nepal comes to an end. We arrange your drop at the airport, from where you will board your onwards flight. Our representative can be at hand to assist you with a smooth check out from the hotel and escort you to the airport.

We advise you to arrive at the airport at least 3 hrs prior to departure and keep your passport and a printout of your airline ticket handy to avoid last-minute hassles.