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Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 9 Day India & Nepal on a Budget: Varanasi to Kathmandu. From sacred rivers to soaring peaks, this nine-day adventure through India and Nepal serves up epic sights and spiritual vibes in one whirlwind trip. Kick things off in Varanasi with a sunrise cruise on the Ganges, then cross into Nepal to explore Buddha’s birthplace, spot rhinos on safari in Chitwan, and soak up Himalayan views in Pokhara. Big on culture, nature, and connection — this is South Asia done right.
Save 25%
Our Price From
US$412 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $137 per person
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
18-to-Thirtysomethings
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
18-39 Years
Max. Group Size
18
Pace
Moderate
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
AHVK
Itinerary
Arrive at anytime. Meet your CEO and group in the evening for a welcome meeting, an orientation walk around Varanasi and your first night out!
Accommodation: Hotel Vaibhav
Included Experiences
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
- Orientation Walk: Experience the spiritual energy of Varanasi with a walk through the holy city, filled with temples, shrines and Hindus from all over India and the world. Enjoy views of the sacred River Ganges.
- Connect With New Friends: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
This morning, hop on a boat and sail the sacred Ganges River, where you will have the opportunity to witness a candle flower ceremony. Enjoy a free afternoon to uniquely explore the spiritual capital of India. Opt to bathe in the sacred waters or visit Kashi Vishwanath, the Golden Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Varanasi is your oyster! 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.
Accommodation: Hotel Vaibhav
Included Experiences
- Morning Ganges Boat Tour: Catch the sunrise from a boat cruising the sacred Ganges River, where Hindu pilgrims from all over the world come to wash away their sins and cremate their loved ones. Witness locals participating in dawn rituals of bathing and burning at the river.
- Free Time: Enjoy some free time.
Optional Experiences
- Heritage and Spiritual Walk in Old Benaras: Set off an engaging walking tour of Old Varanasi City. Wander through puzzling alleys, vibrant bazaars, explore temples, and gain a deeper understanding of Varanasi’s history, culture, and spirituality. The Varanasi Heritage Walk begins from the Godaulia intersection and our first visit is to the Mata Kali Temple, one of the highest revered places of worship in the city. It was built by the Maharaja of Varanasi in 1885 and features carved pillars that capture visitors’ attention. Then we will visit the Ganesh temple before heading to the Tedhi Neem Gali for a walk through the colorful market dotted with many different shops. Afterward, we will go towards the Kashi Vishwanath corridor and witness Varanasi’s principal cremation site – the Manikarnika Ghat. The sacred fire here has been alive for the last 3000 years. Next, we’ll walk past the Alam Gir mosque, visit the shrine of a Hindu Yogi and mystic Guru Shri Tailang Swami, the Mangla Gauri Temple, and the Sankatha Mata Temple. Towards the end of the walk, we will try the famous white butter toast with tea at Laxmi Chai shop or Dwarika Lassi. During the walk our guide will focus more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing or chanting and gain an understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
- Guided Tour of Sarnath: A day of exploration begins with a tuk-tuk ride from Varanasi towards Sarnath, where your local guide awaits. One of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, Sarnath is the birth place of Buddhism where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. For nearly 1700 years the site remained a centre for great learning, a place of pilgrimage, and a Vihara (Monastery) for monks and scholars. Guided by a local expert, discover the archeological ruins of the monastery, the ancient Dhamek stupa. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan. Stop to admire the Buddha statue located at the Thai Buddha vihara. Some eighty feet tall, it is considered to be the tallest standing Buddha statue at Sarnath. After three hours of guided exploration, your guide will bring you back to your awaiting tuk-tuks bound for your hotel.
Today we leave India and travel to the peaceful land of Nepal. Step back in time and experience Buddha's birthplace - Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and pilgrimage centre. Visit the Maya Devi Temple, where the Queen gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama. This will be a longer travel day as it may take up to 12 hours to reach the city of Lumbini. Settle in with your fellow travellers and get to know each other as you take in the scenery.
Accommodation: Landmark Bhairahawa
Included Experiences
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Border Crossing (Nepal): Have your passports and documentation ready to cross the border.
- Maya Devi Temple Buddha's Birthplace Visit: Visit Maya Devi Temple, Buddha's Birthplace Visit. Explore the numerous monasteries in this World Heritage Site.
Experience Nepali rural life at Barauli Village homestay, a G Adventures–supported project. Take an orientation walk, visiting friendly homes and learn about the Tharu daily life. Opt to venture to the Narayani river on a cycle tour.
Accommodation: Barauli Community Homestay
Included Experiences
- Barauli Community Guesthouse Stay: Enjoy the hospitality of the Tharu, an indigenous community from the Teral belt of Nepal who live in eco-friendly homes. Experience their unique culture through dance and song.
- Barauli Community Connection: The Barauli Community Homestay is G Adventures–supported and designed to help preserve the culture of the local Tharu people. This homestay project is completely run by women, bringing diversified income and sustainable tourism to the region. This is a fantastic experience for both visitors and hosts, to make meaningful connections and learn about each others lives.
- Barauli Village Orientation Walk: Take an orientation walk through Barauli village. Visit local homes and learn more about the Tharu lifestyle, farming techniques, as well as the region's flora and fauna.
Optional Experiences
- Cycling: Explore the village and its surroundings with a guided bike ride. Enjoy sunset on the banks of the Narayani river over a cup of tea.
Enjoy a free day to explore the surrounding village and rice paddies before spending another night with the Tharu community. Opt to take a jeep safari through the diverse ecosystem of Chitwan National Park for a chance to witness rhinos, crocodiles, monkeys, and maybe even the elusive bengal tiger.
Accommodation: Barauli Community Homestay
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Get out and explore.
- Barauli Community Guesthouse Stay: Enjoy the hospitality of the Tharu, an indigenous community from the Teral belt of Nepal who live in eco-friendly homes. Experience their unique culture through dances, songs, and a delicious traditional meal. Stay on the property in private guesthouses that resemble traditional village architecture of the local Tharu people. Enjoy modern conveniences like running water, comfortable beds, and mosquito nets. The 14 cottages are each named after the local woman that manages the property. There are also tended gardens and small patches of farmland in the village compound with animals tethered inside the pastures. Any meals will be eaten in the communal dining hall and the local women will serve you food that has been sourced completely from the surrounding land and community.
Optional Experiences
- Chitwan 4x4 Safari: Explore the diverse ecosystems of Royal Chitwan National Park from the comfort of a 4x4 vehicle. Keep your eyes peeled for the many animals that live there, including birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and rhinos. If you're lucky, you might get to see an elusive tiger.
- Barauli Community Immersion: Experience traditional Chitwan life by opting to participate in a cultural dinner and dance held by our Barauli hosts.
Travel from the peaceful plains towards the mystical Himalayan mountains, stopping in Pokhara. Get your bearings in town on an orientation walk. Be sure to capture a panoramic group photo with the stunning Annapurna range backdrop.
Accommodation: Hotel Raraa
Included Experiences
- Pokhara Orientation Walk: Breathe in the fresh air and take in the views of the Himalayas and Phewa Lake while getting your bearings around this scenic city.
Enjoy breakfast at Sharing Seeds and learn how organic arabica coffee and beekeeping helps uplift the community. In the afternoon, get to know Pokhara more in-depth by freely exploring this photogenic region. Gear up for your big night out at a lakeside bar with your new friends. Cheers to all the life-changing adventures you've just shared! In the morning, watch a spectacular Himalayan sunrise over the mountains before visiting a Planeterra project that benefits the local community.
Accommodation: Hotel Raraa
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Enjoy some free time.
- Lakeside Bar: Follow your CEO to best lakeside bar with a mountainous view and cheers to all the life-changing adventures you've just experienced.
- Sharing Seeds Experience: Sharing Seeds is a women led enterprise in Sarnagkot - Tallathar village, which supports local farmers to produce organic arabica coffee and beekeeping, and offers opportunities to the women of Pandeli Village to produce recyclable, hemp handicrafts. Sharing Seeds has ensured that this community gains new skills and employment opportunities while retaining their culture and addressing the problem of rural urban migration. Enjoy a local breakfast in the fields of the picturesque village of Tallathar, led by women from this rural community, and take a walk through the village to learn more about the coffee grown in the region.
Optional Experiences
- Sarangkot Sunrise Walk: Experience a spectacular sunrise view of the surrounding the Annapurna Himalayas. Enjoy the 2.5 hour walk back down through lush farms and forests.
Travel the last leg of this trip through the wild, rugged Himalayan landscape to Nepal’s capital and largest city, Kathmandu. Or opt to skip the drive and fly to Kathmandu for more time in the city. After the whole group arrives, get a feel for the city on an orientation walk. As Kathmandu is fascinating at every turn, simply wander around and see where chance, fate, or the city may lead you. Check out world-famous Durbar Square, King’s Palace, the burning ghats at Pashupatinath, or Boudhanath Stupa. Then join your crew for an optional farewell meal together!
Accommodation: Hotel Serenity
Included Experiences
- Kathmandu Orientation Walk: Get a taste of this lively capital city, which is fascinating at every turn.
Optional Experiences
- Flight: Pokhara to Kathmandu: Want more time in Kathmandu? Skip the long drive and hop on a quick flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Note: this is an upgrade to a flight from the included drive
Today is departure day, but do not fret! There is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange social medias, and depart at any time.
Optional Experiences
- Everest Flight: Get a close look at awesome Mt Everest, the highest mountain in the world, without having to do any climbing; this one-hour plane tour will give you an unforgettable experience. At times, the weather may cover Everest, but the surrounding view is still worth the ride!
Trip Inclusions
- Float down the sacred Ganges on a sunrise boat ride in Varanasi.
- Visit Buddha’s birthplace and explore ancient temples in Lumbini.
- Spot wildlife on safari in Chitwan National Park.
- Take in mountain views and chill vibes in Pokhara with free time to explore.
- Your G for Good Moment: Barauli Community Connection, Royal Chitwan National Park
- Your G for Good Moment: Sharing Seeds Experience, Pokhara
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
- Your Local Living Moment: Barauli Community Guesthouse Stay, Royal Chitwan National Park
- Your Big Night Out Moment: Lakeside Bar, Pokhara
- Varanasi Orientation Walk
- Free time in Varanasi
- Morning Ganges Boat Tour
- Maya Devi Temple Buddha's Birthplace Visit
- Barauli Community Experience & Orientation Walk
- Pokhara Orientation Walk
- Sharing Seeds Experience
- Free time in Pokhara
- Kathmandu Orientation walk
- Train, private vehicle, walking, tuktuk, boat
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides
- Simple Hotels Or Guesthouse (twin-share) (6 Nights), Homestay (2 Nights)
- A variety of styles of hotels/guest houses are used in India. These can vary in terms of service, efficiency and cleanliness. In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home. Power cuts can and are a regular occurrence in many places, especially throughout North and Central India. Although a number of hotels have generators there may be times when these won’t work. It is also recommended when you are in your room to lock the door, as staff will sometime enter without reason.
- 1 breakfast
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings
Built for young travelers ready to break free from the everyday grind, these trips bring together a safe and supportive group of like-minded people in their twenties and early thirties.
Connect on the First Night Out, explore with a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), enjoy free time, and celebrate unforgettable moments with new friends - without breaking the bank. Travel confidently, respectfully, and affordably.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Monday
13 Apr 2026
13 Apr 26
Varanasi
Tuesday
21 Apr 2026
21 Apr 26
Kathmandu
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Monday
20 Apr 2026
20 Apr 26
Varanasi
Tuesday
28 Apr 2026
28 Apr 26
Kathmandu
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Monday
27 Apr 2026
27 Apr 26
Varanasi
Tuesday
05 May 2026
05 May 26
Kathmandu
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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