Independent Spirit of India with Kathmandu
Eclectic temples, imposing forts, and pristine wildlife refuges—this is the ultimate introduction to India and Nepal. Begin in Mumbai to witness the famous tiffin lunchbox delivery system and the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. Continue to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu cities, for the striking Ganga Aarti on the ghats of the Ganges. In Delhi, navigate the 300-year-old Chandni Chowk bazaar by rickshaw, visit the white-marble Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, and explore the 16th-century Mughal garden-tomb of Humayun. In Agra, witness a truly incomparable sunrise at the Taj Mahal before exploring the red-sandstone Agra Fort. The "Pink City" of Jaipur follows, featuring the glittering Mirror Palace of Amber Fort and the massive Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory. Finally, fly to Kathmandu to discover the historic seat of royalty at Hanuman Dhoka and the residence of the Living Goddess at the Temple of Kumari. Conclude your journey at the massive Bouddhanath stupa and the sacred Hindu and Buddhist sites of Patan’s Durbar Square. Enjoy free time and optional excursions to experience this fascinating destination in your own way.
Tour Itinerary
Welcome to India! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Your private guided sightseeing starts with an orientation for photos at some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Witness Mumbai’s fascinating tiffin lunch box delivery system. At Churchgate Station, the dabbawalas (box carriers) transfer the lunch boxes onto a wooden cart on a local train. Board the train for the short ride to Mahalaxmi Station where you’ll disembark and watch the boxes being sorted by color for final delivery. Visit a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. (B,L)
Today, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. (B)
Near dawn, board a boat and watch a moving religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. Observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga, meditating, take a ritual dip and offer flowers to the river. Return to your hotel for breakfast and leisure time. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading to the sacred Ganges River. (B)
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