Icons of India: the Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Kathmandu
Overview
Continue on to fascinating Kathmandu, where guided sightseeing reveals Nepal’s iconic capital: the historic seat of royalty at Hanuman Dhoka, the residence of the Living Goddess at the Temple of Kumari, and the massive Bouddhanath stupa. Complete your journey through the valley by marveling at the sacred Hindu and Buddhist architecture of Patan’s Durbar Square. A mosaic of memories awaits on this Small Group Discovery tour of India and Nepal.
Small Group Discovery
4 - 4.5 Star
Premium
5-99 Years
24
Fully Guided, Locally Guided
ODE2
Itinerary
Hello, Delhi!
Welcome to Delhi, India's capital city. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.
Delhi Delights
Today's sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Then, visit Jama Masjid and Humayun's Tomb and take a rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of free time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner that includes a cooking demonstration and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef.
LOCAL FAVORITE - MARKET HIGH: Hop on a rickshaw and explore Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling a variety of goods and souvenirs—from silver and saris to spices and electronics.
Remembrance & Worship
This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - A RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE: As Delhi's largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), Gurudwara Bangla Sahib has religious significance and splendid architecture. The grand edifice is built in the Sikh architectural style, while this magnificent house of worship is made using stunning white marble below its commanding golden dome.
Moghul Monuments
Start your day with a sunrise visit to the captivating Taj Mahal. After a bit of down time, travel to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LOVE REMEMBERED: Rise early for a bucket-list visit to the extravagant Taj Mahal, a marble monument to love. Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth. Your guided tour takes you inside the mausoleum, with time to explore on your own and reflect.
By Road & Rail
Today, stop at Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for merely 10 years before it was completely abandoned due to the lack of adequate water. After lunch in Bharatpur, board a train bound for Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger!
The Game is Afoot
Today, explore Ranthambore National Park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. Between game drives, enjoy free time to relax.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: In addition to Bengal tigers, Ranthambore National Park is home to leopards, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and more. Take the opportunity to spot them all on today's guided game drives via small-capacity vehicles perfect for your group.
Jaunt to Jaipur
Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and has been known as the “Pink City” ever since. After lunch, visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar, consisting of 19 astronomical instruments used for measuring time and dates back to 1728. Next, visit the City Palace Museum, which once served as the royal residence and now showcases a collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes from the past.
Jewels of Jaipur
Today, travel by Jeep to visit the amazing Amber Fort in the morning. Later, visit a local vocational training program for children. Tonight, enjoy a home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family, followed by a sari-and-turban-tying demonstration.
LOCAL FAVORITE - PROMISING FUTURES: Ladli is a training program empowering orphaned children by teaching them valuable vocational skills. During your visit, you'll learn about the project while interacting with the children and helping them practice their English skills. As part of Globus family of brands Lighthouse Project, this meaningful organization is one example of our commitment to supporting the people and places we share with you.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - FORMIDABLE FORTRESS: Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the “Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan,” built entirely of white marble and red sandstone. Rising above the hills of Jaipur, this fortress-palace has a somber exterior that hides a richly ornate interior of royal apartments, including an alabaster Hall of Victory and a superb Chamber of Mirrors.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Your small group is invited to visit the home of a local noble family to share a home-prepared dinner. You'll also learn the art of sari-and-turban tying in the beloved tradition of India.
Going to Kathmandu
Today, fly to Kathmandu (via Delhi), Nepal's capital city, where you will be met by a Globus representative.
Please note: Your Tour Director does not accompany guests on extensions. Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu is as outlined in the itinerary.City Sights & Goddess Lights
Join your Local Guide for morning sightseeing starting with a visit to Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty. Then, visit the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LIVING FAITH: Discover the mysteries of the Temple of Kumari, where the Living Goddess is believed to reside. Here, the manifestation of the Divine Mother is said to dwell in a young girl who embodies shakti-the divine energy representing riches, strength, beauty, and knowledge, revered as the creative force of the universe. The temple is believed to be constructed from the wood of a single tree and features a four pillar hall, from which the sounds of string and percussion instruments are said to emanate. A mysteriously beautiful sight!
The Power of Faith
Today, travel with your Local Guide to Bouddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Then, continue to Patan, formerly known as Lalitpur (City of Beauty). Here, stop in Durbar Square, the city's center of business and home to several Buddhist and Hindu sites.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
Trip Inclusions
- Orientation tour of Delhi with visits to Jama Masjid and Humayun's Tomb
- [LF] Rickshaw ride through historic Chandni Chowk market
- Indian cuisine cooking demonstration with a local chef
- Sunrise guided visit to the Taj Mahal
- Tour of Agra Fort
- Two open-air safari game drives in Ranthambore National Park
- Guided tour of Amber Fort
- Visit to a vocational training program for children in Jaipur
- [LF] Home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family, including sari- and turban-tying demonstration
- Visits to Fatehpur Sikri, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar
- Intra-vacation flight from Jaipur to Delhi
- Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu includes Hanuman Dhoka, the Temple of Kumari, and Bouddhanath
- Visit Patan and Durbar Square
- Breakfast daily, 7 Lunches, 5 Dinners
- Delhi: Le Meridien New Delhi (Moderate Deluxe):
Ideally located in the heart of New Delhi, the luxurious Le Meridien New Delhi stands tall over the historic landscape of Lutyen's Delhi. The hotel features a sophisticated and modern design, and sweeping views of New Delhi. - Agra: Grand Mercure, Agra (Superior First-Class):
Inspired by the rich heritage Agra, the Grand Mercure Agra captures the city's essence in its architecture, flavours and experiences. With the Taj Mahal in the background, the rooftop restaurant is a great place to take in spectacular views. - Ranthambore National Park: The Tigriss Ranthambore (Moderate Deluxe):
The Tigress Ranthambore promises premium luxuries of a heritage style abode adjacent to Ranthambore National Park. It welcomes guests to soak in the grandeur of royalty, warm hospitality and exciting activities. Rooms are tastefully designed with modern amenities to ensure a stay that is comfortable and memorable. - Jaipur: Jaipur Marriott Hotel (Superior First-Class):
Experience a winning combination of traditional luxury and modern convenience at the Jaipur Marriott Hotel. Entrenched in the cultural legacy of India's Pink City, - Kathmandu: Vivanta Kathmandu (Superior First-Class):
Located in the vibrant Patan district of Kathmandu, the Vivant Kathmandu whisks guests into an oasis of modern comforts in one of the most far-flung locations in the world. Guestrooms are sophisticated and versatile. After a day of exploring the city head up to the rooftop pool and bar for the finest views over Kathmandu.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- In the interest of safety and ensuring wildlife well being, cell phones are banned in several national parks and tiger reserves across India—including Ranthambore National Park. Before your game drives, you will be required to leave your phone at the hotel. Personal cameras are still permitted. Your Tour Director will also have a camera and can take photos on your behalf if you are not carrying your own.
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Globus Small Group Discoveries (2026-27)
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