Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu
16 Days Starting in Mumbai, India and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal
Visiting: Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Kathmandu, Asia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ODY8-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through India and Nepal with the "Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai, Varanasi & Kathmandu" tour. This cultural adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Mumbai, home to the Bollywood film industry, to the sacred city of Varanasi, where you can witness the spiritual rituals along the Ganges River. Explore the historical and architectural marvels of Delhi, including the Red Fort and Qutub Minar, and marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. Experience the thrill of spotting Bengal tigers in Ranthambore National Park and delve into the rich heritage of Jaipur, the Pink City. Conclude your journey in Kathmandu, Nepal, with visits to ancient temples and stupas, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture. Enjoy first-class accommodations and guided tours, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Mumbai,India
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation Name: Trident, Nariman Point
Welcome to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a vibrant history—now India’s premier seaport and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry.
ARRIVE IN MUMBAI, INDIA Hello, Mumbai Welcome to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a vibrant history—now India’s premier seaport and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry.MUMBAI-FLOWERS.jpg
Day 2: Mumbai
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation Name: Trident, Nariman Point
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Join your Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
MUMBAI Magical Mumbai Join your Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. (B,L)MUMBAI-CHHATRAPATI-SHIVAJI.jpg
Day 3: Mumbai,Varanasi
Location: Mumbai
Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
MUMBAI–VARANASI Today, witness Mumbai’s tiffin lunch box delivery system. Later this afternoon, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTLUNCH BOX HEROES Each weekday dabbawalas (box carriers) deliver thousands of home-cooked lunches to people at work. Using a simple coding system of colors, numbers, and letters, deliveries are made with nearly 100% accuracy. Watch and learn about this fascinating process starting at Churchgate Station where the dabbawalas transfer the boxes onto local trains for distribution. Ride on one of the trains to Mahalaxmi Station where you’ll disembark and see the boxes being sorted for final delivery.VARANASI-HINDI-WOMEN.jpg
Day 4: Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
VARANASI Near dawn, board a boat and watch a meaningful religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. You’ll observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga or meditation. Return to your hotel for breakfast and time at leisure. Early this evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT FIRE & WATER Witness the light of ancient tradition as night descends on the Ganges River in Varanasi. Witness the devotional offerings made to the Goddess Ganga in the aarti performed at the river’s edge as it has been done throughout the ages. A ritual of fire, faithful Hindus float “diyas” (small candle and flowers) on the waters of the Ganges River, while praying for the blessing of Maa Ganga. VARANASI-GANGES.jpg
Day 5: Varanasi,Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Le Meridien New Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Delhi, capital of India.
VARANASI–DELHI Today, fly to Delhi, capital of India. (B)DELHI-INDIAN-FOOD.jpg
Day 6: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Le Meridien New Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DELHI 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 take a [LF] 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. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITEMARKET 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.DELHI-RED-FORT.jpg
Day 7: Delhi,Agra
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Trident, Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DELHI–AGRA Remembrance & Worship This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening. (B,L,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHTA 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. DELHI-QUTUB-MINAR.jpg
Day 8: Agra
Location: Agra
Accommodation Name: Trident, Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast
AGRA 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. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTLOVE REMEMBERED Explore 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.AGRA-TAJ-MAHAL.jpg
Day 9: Agra,Fatehpur Sikri,Ranthambore National Park Area
Location: Ranthambore National Park
Accommodation Name: Ranthambhore Kothi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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!
AGRA–FATEHPUR SIKRI–RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK AREA 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! (B,L,D)FATEHPUR-SIKRI.jpg
Day 10: Ranthambore Area
Location: Ranthambore
Accommodation Name: Ranthambhore Kothi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
RANTHAMBORE AREA 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. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE In addition to Bengal tigers, Ranthambore National Park is home to leopard, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and more. Take the opportunity to spot them all on guided game drives today. RANTHAMBORE-BENGAL-TIGER.jpg
Day 11: Ranthambore Area,Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Jaipur Marriott Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and 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, once the royal residence and now showcases a collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes from the past.
RANTHAMBORE AREA–JAIPUR Jaunt to Jaipur Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and 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, once the royal residence and now showcases a collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes from the past. (B,L)JAIPUR-JANTAR-MANTAR.jpg
Day 12: Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Jaipur Marriott Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
JAIPUR Jewels of Jaipur Today, visit the amazing Amber Fort in the morning. Lastly, visit a [LF] 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. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITECHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE Ladli is a training program teaching orphaned children valuable skills to keep them off the streets. Here, learn about the project while interacting with the children and helping them practice their English skills.TOUR HIGHLIGHTFORMIDABLE FORTRESS Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the “Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan,” built entirely of white marble and red sandstone. 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. JAIPUR-AMBER-FORT.jpg
Day 13: Jaipur,Kathmandu,Nepal
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Kathmandu (via Delhi), Nepal’s capital city.
JAIPUR–KATHMANDU, NEPAL You’re Going to Kathmandu Today, fly to Kathmandu (via Delhi), Nepal’s capital city. (B)KATHMANDU-STUPA.jpg
Day 14: Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
KATHMANDU City Sights 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. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTLIVING FAITH Discover the mysteries of the Temple of Kumari where the Living Goddess resides. Here, the manifestation of the Divine Mother is believed to live in the young girl who embodies The Energy – all riches, strength, beauty, and knowledge of the creator of the Universe. The temple is said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree, featuring a 4-pillar hall from which sounds emanate from string and percussion instruments. A mysteriously beautiful sight!KATHMANDU-TEMPLE-OF-KUMARI.jpg
Day 15: Kathmandu Patan Excursion
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation Name: Vivanta Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
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.
KATHMANDU PATAN EXCURSION Powerful Patan 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. (B,L)PATAN.jpg
Day 16: Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
KATHMANDU Safe travels until we meet again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)KATHMANDU-HOLY-MAN.jpg
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at first-class hotels including Trident in Mumbai and Agra, Taj Ganges in Varanasi, Le Meridien in Delhi, Ranthambhore Kothi in Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur Marriott Hotel in Jaipur, and Vivanta Kathmandu in Kathmandu.
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Meals
Enjoy breakfast daily, 8 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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Guided Tours
Join local guides for city tours and visits to famous sites including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Gateway of India, Mani Bhavan, and more.
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Transportation
Includes flights from Mumbai to Varanasi, Varanasi to Delhi, and Jaipur to Kathmandu (via Delhi). Also includes a train ride from Bharatpur to Sawai Madhopur.
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Game Drives
Morning and afternoon game drives in Ranthambore National Park to spot Bengal tigers and other wildlife.
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Cultural Experiences
Experience local culture with activities such as a rickshaw ride through a local bazaar in Delhi, a visit to a local vocational training program for children in Jaipur, and a home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family.
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Amber Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and more.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into India and Nepal are not included.
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Agra Fort|Amber Fort|Bouddahanath|Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus|Durbar Square|Fatehpur Sikri|Hanuman Dhoka|Humayun's Tomb|Jaipur Walled City|Jantar Mantar|Patan|Qutab Minar|Taj Mahal
Meals
Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, 5 dinners
Accommodation
Mumbai: Trident, Nariman Point Varanasi: Taj Ganges, Varanasi Delhi: Le Meridien New Delhi Agra: Trident, Agra Ranthambore National Park: Ranthambhore Kothi Jaipur: Jaipur Marriott Hotel Kathmandu: Vivanta Kathmandu
Mode of Transport
Travel includes flights between Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, and Kathmandu, as well as a train journey from Bharatpur to Sawai Madhopur. Road transfers are provided between various cities and attractions.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at various high-quality hotels such as Trident, Nariman Point in Mumbai, Taj Ganges in Varanasi, Le Meridien in New Delhi, Trident in Agra, Ranthambhore Kothi in Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur Marriott Hotel in Jaipur, and Vivanta Kathmandu in Kathmandu.
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What activities are planned for the visit to Varanasi?
In Varanasi, you will board a boat near dawn to watch the Hindus' devotional bathing in the Ganges. You will also witness the Ganga Aarti, a spiritual worship ceremony on the ghats of the Ganges River. Additionally, there will be time at leisure to explore the city.
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What can I expect during the visit to Ranthambore National Park?
At Ranthambore National Park, you will explore the park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. The park is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and more.
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What unique experiences are included in the Delhi itinerary?
In Delhi, you will see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. You will visit Jama Masjid and take a rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. There will also be a lavish welcome dinner with a cooking demonstration and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef.
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What is special about the visit to Jaipur?
In Jaipur, you will visit the Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a local vocational training program for children. You will also enjoy a home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family, followed by a sari-and turban-tying demonstration.
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What will I see in Kathmandu?
In Kathmandu, you will visit Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty, and the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess. You will also travel to Bouddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world, and visit Patan, stopping in Durbar Square.
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What is included in the meals during the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily, 8 lunches, and 5 dinners.
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What are some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Agra Fort, Amber Fort, Bouddhanath, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Durbar Square, Fatehpur Sikri, Hanuman Dhoka, Humayun's Tomb, Jaipur Walled City, Jantar Mantar, Patan, Qutab Minar, and the Taj Mahal.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.