Delhi to Kathmandu Adventure

There are no planned activities until the evening welcome meeting. Afterward, head out for an optional dinner with the group.

Visit Delhi's impressive India Gate and Connaught Place before traveling to Jaipur, commonly called the "Pink City" for its unique architecture. Along the way, try your hand at block printing with the women of the Anoothi Project. Get to know this colourful city on an orientation walk, then opt to watch a classic Bollywood film.

With free time, opt to get active by pre-booking a cycle tour, or catch a classic Bollywood film in the spectacular Art Deco film house — the Raj Mandir.

Take in the arid terrain and small towns on the ride to Agra for a sunset visit to the famous Taj Mahal. Marvel at the iconic Mughal architecture and immerse yourself in the mausoleum's unique history.

Travel by train and rickshaw to reach peaceful Orchha along the Betwa River. Enjoy some time away from India's bustling cities and gain insight into rural life. Visit Tarragram, a unique paper-making plant set up to assist tribal women from the area. All the paper is made from recycled clothing and wood pulp. Then, visit the palace complex to learn more about the ancient history here. Opt to witness an evening puja, a Hindu prayer ceremony. (B)

Enjoy free time to explore beautiful Orchha. Opt to rent a bike, stroll along the river, or take a cooking class and enjoy the fruits of your labour for lunch.

In the evening, catch an overnight train to Varanasi.

Arrive in Varanasi, the quintessential Indian holy city where millions of Hindus travel for pilgrimage, to worship, to mourn, or to die. Take an orientation walk along the ghats and visit the old city to get acquainted with this magical city.

Pre-book the Varanasi Heritage Walk and enjoy a guided tour that focuses more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. Pre-book the Guided Visit of Sarnath and learn about the life of the Buddha. Discover the archeological ruins of the monastery. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan and stop to admire the Buddha statue during the three hours of guided exploration.

Today is a long travel day, so get comfortable, sit back and relax, and enjoy the changing landscape. Get ready to learn about the history and culture of Nepal.

Travel through a belt of marshy grasslands, savannas, and forests at the base of the Himalayas. The region is home to rhinos, elephants, Bengal tigers, bears, and leopards. Enjoy an overnight homestay with the indigenous Tharu community and discover their culture through dance and song. Opt to go on a cycling excursion through the area.

Explore the diverse ecosystems of the UNESCO Chitwan National Park on a 4x4 safari before a walk through the village and rice paddies. Settle in for another night of dance, songs, and Nepalese food with your Tharu community hosts. (D)

Travel toward the beautiful scenery of the Annapurna Range to Pokhara.

On arrival, take in the pristine lakes and stunning panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. Opt to relax in a café, hire a boat and float around the lake, or shop for Nepali and Tibetan souvenirs in the endless stalls and shops.

The walk back from Sarangkot through farms and forest is wonderful and takes between 2-2.5 hours. (B)

Swayambhunath is the most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu valley. Its lofty white dome and glittering golden spire are visible for many miles. To reach Swayambhunath climb 365 steps that lead up the hill. The area surrounding the stupa is filled with temples, painted images of deities, and numerous other religious objects.

Depart at any time.