Price

$2200

Available: 7+ spaces

Secure your place on this program with a $350 lifetime deposit. Final payment is due 60 days before departure.

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      • Hotels: Comfort Class

      • 07/13/2025 - 07/29/2025

      • Max Participants: 15

      • 17 Days / 16 Nights

      Overview

      If you’re looking to experience the diversity of India and Nepal, this 17-day trip contrasts the colorful culture of India with the pristine serenity of Nepal’s Himalayan mountains. From the ghats that line the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi to a 4×4 safari in Chitwan National Park, our expert tour leader will take you through a region of unsurpassed natural beauty and spirituality before revealing to you the rugged Himalayan landscape of Nepal’s magical capital, Kathmandu. Visit India and Nepal with us, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      What's Included:
      • Arrival transfer included through the G Adventures-supported Women on Wheels project
      • Delhi Day tour
      • India Gate and Connaught Place visit (Delhi)
      • Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal tour (Jaipur)
      • Taj Mahal entrance
      • Orchha Palace complex visit
      • Ganges River boat trips at sunrise and sunset, including candle flower ceremony (Varanasi)
      • Varanasi orientation walk along the ghats and old city
      • Buddha's birthplace visit (Lumbini)
      • Chitwan National Park jeep safari
      • Sarangkot sunrise excursion (Pokhara)
      • Lunch at the G Adventures-supported Sisterhood of Survivors Project
      • Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
      • Kathmandu orientation walk
      • Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) visit
      • Bhaktapur and Patan day tour
      • Border crossing support
      • G Adventures Tour leader throughout, local guides
      • 1 lunch, 1 dinner – allow $400-$520 USD for meals not included
      • Upgraded hotels (13 nts), rural village stay (2 nts), sleeper train (1 nt)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by train, metro, local bus, charter bus, private van, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, tempo, 4x4, riverboat
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admissions
      • Departure airport transfer

      Itinerary Download PDF

      Day 1: Delhi Arrive in Delhi at any time. Meet your group for a welcome meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m.

      Arrive in Delhi at any time. The Delhi airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). Due to the potential for flight delays or cancellations, we recommend that you plan to arrive in Delhi at least a day in advance. This will also give you time to adjust to the time difference and overcome any jet lag. We can book extra hotel nights for you in Delhi before the trip. Hotel Check-in and Welcome Meeting Check-in at the hotel is usually around 2:00-3:00 p.m. There are no planned activities until an intro meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., usually in the hotel lobby. Check for a sign or ask at the reception desk about the exact time and location of the group meeting. Please make every effort to arrive in time for this meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your tour leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up tomorrow. After the meeting, you might choose to get dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to further get to know one another. Joining Instructions For no extra cost, you will be picked up at the airport by Women With Wheels, a non-profit organization that trains Indian women from underprivileged backgrounds to get their professional chauffeur’s licenses. Our tour operator employs all-female graduates to provide our travelers with safe and reliable transportation. We are proud to use our arrival transfers as a means of supporting local Indian women. Please note: If you are coming to Delhi before our program begins and will be staying at a different hotel than the one your tour is using in Delhi, we will not be able to provide you with this complimentary transfer service. Exploring New Delhi New Delhi, the capital of India, is a historic city with three World Heritage Sites: Qutab Minar, the Red Fort, and Humayun’s Tomb. It offers numerous attractions, making it hard to decide where to start. While we cover some highlights on the second day of this trip, we only scratch the surface. Consider arriving early to see more, but note that Delhi can be chaotic for all travelers. Old Delhi features mosques, forts, markets, and monuments from India’s Muslim history. New Delhi, designed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, boasts wide tree-covered streets, government buildings, embassies, Rashtrapati Bhawan, and the India Gate. In the southern suburbs, you’ll find Humayun’s Tomb, Purana Quila, Qutab Minar, and the Bahá’í House of Worship. Notable museums include the Craft Museum, National Gallery of Modern Art, Birla House (Gandhi Smriti), and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum. Note: Many museums are closed on Monday. If you are looking to try a range of Indian cuisines, consider visiting the food stalls at Dilli Haat. Set amidst a spacious crafts bazaar, the cafes of Dilli Haat are a pleasant place to enjoy food and take in the local culture. Accommodation: Delhi Rose Mellow (or similar) For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

      Today, we get to see the sights of Delhi on a full-day guided tour with a local guide. You will ride an air-conditioned bus, although there will be ample walking around and taking a rickshaw. Itinerary will include: India Gate and the surroundings, Old Delhi Chandani Chowk area, Jama Masjid Mosque, Raj Ghat Ghandi Memorial and the Qutab Minar Complex. You will also visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh temple and kitchen. The temple feeds thousands of people a day with everyone eating on the ground in a big hall. You will go into the kitchen and help roll out Roti, a type of Indian flatbread, to be served. Please keep in mind that Delhi traffic is unpredictable, so plans may need to be adjusted. Please note: Qutab Minar's entrance fee isn't included. Participants will pay 250 INR locally (roughly $5 USD). Raj Ghat is occasionally closed to the public for official ceremonies. Accommodation: Delhi Rose Mellow (or similar)

      Leaving the chaos of Delhi, we board our early morning air-conditioned bus to Jaipur, known as the "Pink City." Jaipur was first painted terracotta pink by Maharajah Sawai Ram Singh in 1853, to celebrate the visit of Prince Albert. We will have an orientation walk and then have the option to take in a Bollywood film at the Raj Mandir, a spectacular art deco film house. Approximate travel time: 6 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Jaipur Mandawa Haveli (or similar)

      This morning, we visit the Amber Fort, which clings to the surrounding hills, marveling at its beautiful Hindu and Muslim architecture. We then travel back to Jaipur to see the Hawa Mahal, or the "Palace of the Winds." This famous building is in fact only an elaborately carved facade built to enable the purdah ladies in the zenana to watch the goings-on in the street below without being seen. There are so many things to do in Jaipur, and you will have some free time to choose what is most of interest to you. You may want to explore by bicycle, which will introduce you to sights, sounds, and smells that a vehicle just can't match. Marvel at the architectural wonders as you enter the walled part of the city and stop at the City Palace to visit the Govind Dev temple. Wander through the historical spices and sweets market, stopping for tea and a tasty snack of pakoras before heading towards the majestic Albert Hall Museum where the cycle tour ends. You might instead prefer to head out to the nearby village of Sanganer to see blue pottery, handmade paper, or hand-block printing. Or you may wish to discover more of the wisdom and history of the Mughals by wandering around the Jantar Mantar, an observatory built in the 1700s. We also recommend visiting the courtyards, gardens, and buildings that make up the City Palace. Located in the heart of the Old City, it is a striking blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Visit the palace's museum to look at ancient carriages and the former maharaja's gold-embroidered wedding outfit. Jaipur is one of the most important centers in the world for gems, jewelry, and small diamonds. It is also a great place to buy block-printed textiles, blue pottery, and handmade paper. There are many shops selling these items and some wonderful markets in the Old City selling more traditional items such as mojari, Rajasthani slippers. If buying gems or jewelry, please take caution as there have been several instances of scams where fake jewelry has been passed off as real. Accommodation: Jaipur Mandawa Haveli (or similar)

      Travel to the city of Agra, site of India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Visit this icon of Mughal architecture in the late afternoon for the best light. The Taj Mahal was constructed between 1631 and 1654 by a workforce of 22,000 laborers. It was built by the Muslim Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, Arjumand Bano Begum, better known as Mumtaz Mahal. Mumtaz had already borne the emperor 14 children when she died in childbirth, and it is the romantic origin of the Taj as much as its architectural splendor that has led to its fame worldwide. Actually an integrated complex of many structures, the Taj Mahal is considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, itself a combination of Islamic, Hindu, Persian, and Turkish elements. Approximate travel time: 6 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Agra Royale Regent (or similar)

      Today, we travel by train from Agra to Jhansi before jumping in a tempo, a large auto-rickshaw, to the picturesque town of Orchha. You will love the peaceful rural charm of this riverside town. Sitting on the banks of the Betwa River, Orchha is the perfect antithesis India’s bustling cities. Experience a part of India that will likely change your perception of this diverse country. A typical, small Indian town, Orchha owes its popularity to an architectural heritage that shows the town's history as the oldest and highest in rank of all the Bundela states. Orchha dates back to the 16th century when it was founded by the Bundela chief Rudra Pratap. In the early 17th century, Raja Jujhar Singh rebelled against the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, whose armies devastated the state and occupied Orchha from 1635 to 1641. Orchha was the only Bundela state not subjugated by the Marathas in the 18th century. Hamir Singh, who ruled from 1848 to 1874, was elevated to Maharaja in 1865. Maharaja Pratap Singh, who succeeded to the throne in 1874, devoted himself entirely to the development of his state, including designing most of the engineering and irrigation works built during his reign. We will visit the Orcha Palace complex, which is three separate palaces or mahals: the Raj Mahal, Jehangir Mahal, and Rai Parveen Mahal. Enjoy the medieval architecture and learn about its rich history. In the evening, if you wish, you may join an evening puja, a Hindu prayer ceremony. Approximate travel time: 2.5 hrs by train (Agra to Jhansi); 1.5 hrs by auto-rickshaw (Jhansi to Orchha) Accommodation: Amar Mahal (or similar)

      We will start the day with a visit to Tarragram, a unique paper-making plant that is set up to assist tribal women from the area. All the paper here is made from recycled clothing and wood pulp. You can opt to rent a bike from a local shop and head out to explore. Or you can take a cooking class with a local family and enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch. This home-cooked meal is a real highlight and is highly recommended by past participants. In the evening, you will return to Jhansi, where you will board an overnight train to Varanasi. See our FAQ to learn more about the overnight train, which is an essential Indian experience and a great way to see the landscape. Approximate travel time: 30 mins by auto-rickshaw (Orchha to Jhansi); 13 hrs by overnight train (Jhansi to Varanasi) Accommodation: Overnight train

      We arrive in the morning at Varanasi, the quintessential Indian holy city, where millions of Hindus travel for pilgrimage, to worship, to mourn, or to die. The legends, myths, and aura surrounding Varanasi led Mark Twain to remark famously that the city "is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together." Sitting on the banks of the River Ganges, you can contemplate what it means to be in Varanasi, the oldest continually-inhabited city in the world, dating back thousands of years. The culture of Varanasi is deeply associated with the Ganges River, its reigning deity Lord Shiva, and its religious importance: the city has been a cultural and religious center in northern India for thousands of years. When we first arrive, we will have an orientation walk along the ghats and through the old city, filled with temples, shrines, and Hindus from all over India and the world. Enjoy views of the sacred River Ganges. During your free time after the orientation walk, you might choose to visit some of the hundreds of temples and shrines, such as the Lord Hanuman Temple Visit honoring the Hindu monkey-god, Hanuman. Perhaps you could visit the monasteries and ruins of nearby Sarnath, the site of Buddha's first sermon and one of the most holy sites to Buddhists. It is said that, after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, Buddha continued to Sarnath. In a deer park, he preached his first discourse and set in motion the Wheel of the Dharma. During our stay, we take an evening boat tour on the sacred Ganges River and participate in a candle and flower ceremony while on the water. Please note: Varanasi can be a difficult city to visit, even for an experienced traveler. Varanasi requires patience and an open mind, but it is worth it! Accommodation: Varanasi Surya Kaiser Palace (or similar)

      Today, we wake up early and catch the sunrise during another boat ride on 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. You will then have more free time to explore this holy city. Accommodation: Varanasi Surya Kaiser Palace (or similar)

      Today, we have a long travel day as we cross into Nepal. Enjoy the changing landscape and get ready to learn about the history and culture of Nepal. You will receive a Nepalese visa at the border, but you will need $30 USD in crisp, new bills. Also be aware that Nepal is 15 minutes ahead of India. After completing the immigration formalities in both India and Nepal, we will drive to Lumbini, the historical birthplace of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, who lived between approximately 563 and 483 BCE. Lumbini is located 25 km east of the municipality of Kapilavastu, the place where the Buddha grew up and lived up to the age of 29. We will explore some of the numerous monasteries in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Approximate travel time: 6 hrs by train; 2-3 hrs by taxi; 30 mins-1 hr by private vehicle. Accommodation: Overnight train

      Travel through a region that is home to rhinos, elephants, Bengal tigers, bears, and leopards. In the evening, meet the local Tharu community and discover their culture. Experience their culture through dance and song, along with a traditional meal. Opt to go on a cycling excursion through the area. After breakfast, we will drive through a belt of marshy grasslands, savannas, and forests at the base of the Himalayas to Chitwan National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage site. We will be welcomed by the indigenous tribal group of Chitwan, the Tharus. In the evening, we interact with the local Tharu community and experience their culture through dance and song along with a traditional meal. The Tharus are an indigenous community of the Terai belt of Nepal and work toward living self-sufficiently. They live in eco-friendly homes made of mud, straw, and other materials found in abundance in the region. They also produce and farm all their own food. We will stay overnight in a jungle resort. Approximate travel time: 4-5 hours by private vehicle Accommodation: Hotel Pawan Palace Lumbini Sanskritik Mahanagarpalika (or similar)

      Today, we will explore the diverse ecosystems of Chitwan National Park, formerly the "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 even see an elusive tiger. Keep in mind that sometimes the wildlife is hard to spot, so keep your expectations low. We will stay overnight in a jungle resort. Accommodation: Tharu Community Lodge Kumarwarti (or similar) Meals included: Dinner

      Travel from the plains to the mountains by private vehicle. Nestled in a tranquil valley at an altitude of 827 m, Pokhara is a place of natural beauty. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the fish-tailed summit of Machhapuchhre (6,977 m) rising behind it create an ambiance of peace and tranquility. We will have an orientation walk in Pokhara led by your tour leader. Pokhara lies on a once vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet. To this day, mule trains can be seen camped on the outskirts of the town, bringing goods to trade from remote regions of the Himalayan mountain range. This enchanting city has several beautiful lakes and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, creating an ambiance that makes it such a popular place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Relax in a café, hire a boat to float around the lake, or shop for Nepali and Tibetan souvenirs in the endless stalls and shops. Approximate travel time: 5-6 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Hotel Aabas Lakeside (or similar)

      This morning, we travel to Sarangkot (1,592 m) only 5 km northeast of Pokhara, for a spectacular sunrise of the surrounding mountains (weather permitting). The most stunning of Pokhara’s sights is the spectacular panorama of the Annapurna range, which will dominate the scenery during the walk. The walk also takes you back to Pokhara through farms and forests and is a wonderful way to spend 2-2.5 hours. After the walk, we visit the Sisterhood of Survivors Project, a G Adventures-supported grassroots organization that is helping to support rehabilitated survivors of human-trafficking and other at-risk women. SASANE, our project partners, trains once vulnerable women to be certified paralegals, so that they are the first point of contact for other women coming out of abuse. G Adventures has helped catalyze a hospitality program for these women to be reintegrated into a dignified work environment. The survivors will teach you how to make momos (traditional dumplings) and then enjoy a Nepali lunch together. This program helps support SASANE's trafficking prevention and re-integration programs across Nepal. In the afternoon, you have free time to explore Pokhara on your own. Accommodation: Hotel Aabas Lakeside (or similar) Meals included: Lunch

      Today, we travel by airplane to Nepal’s magical capital and largest city, Kathmandu. For many, simply the name alone is sufficient to conjure up images of temple pagodas, long-haired saddhus in clouds of hashish smoke, and the ever-present Himalayas. Kathmandu is all this and more. Sitting in a bowl-like valley surrounded on all sides by some of the highest mountains on earth, Kathmandu has been a crossroads of cultures since hundreds of years before Christ, a tradition very much alive today. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, we will enjoy a short orientation walk. As a group, we will visit Swayambhunath Temple (Monkey Temple). Highlights in Kathmandu include world-famous Durbar Square, the King’s Palace, the burning ghats at Pashupatinath, and the Boudhanath Stupa. Approximate travel time: 30 mins by airplane Accommodation: Hotel Malla Lekhnath Marg (or similar)

      Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur constitute the valley’s three medieval Newari cities. Today, our group will go on a guided tour of Bhaktapur and Patan. Bkahtapur is the best preserved of the three cities, with incredibly well-preserved ancient architecture, much of which withstood a devastating earthquake in 2015. The ancient town, known as the City of Devotees, was founded in the 12th century and became renowned for its culture, festivals, and multitude of Hindu temples. Explore Bhaktapur's markets, tea stalls, wood-carved temples, and vibrant squares, including Durbar Square. You can pick up clay pots and other souvenirs in the colorful open markets and taste homemade yogurt, known as khopa dhau, which Bhaktapur is famous for. We will also visit Patan's Durbar Square and the Golden Temple. South of the square lies the Kumari Chowk, home to Nepal's living goddess, the Kumari. The Kumari, a prepubescent girl chosen as the incarnation of the Hindu goddess Talejn, lives a cloistered life, rarely leaving the confines of the chowk. When she does leave, it is only for important religious festivals, and her feet are not allowed to touch the ground. Once the Kumari reaches puberty, another 3- to 5-year-old girl will take her place. Approximate travel time: 1 hr by private vehicle Accommodation: Hotel Malla Lekhnath Marg (or similar)

      There are no planned activities today, so you may depart Kathmandu at any time. The nearest airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). If you wish to extend your stay in Kathmandu, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us. Please note: If your departure flight is earlier than 2:00 p.m., you will not have time for an optional Mount Everest flight this morning. (See the optional activities section below for more information about this flight.) Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off of the lesser value program(s) (up to 3 programs per year). If you would like to extend your time abroad but don't see another GEEO program that interests you, let us know. We can work with you to find a trip from our tour operator’s much larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but we can still offer you and your travel companions a discounted educator price on any additional tours that you book.

      *Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please read our general FAQs, where you can find essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach about India & Nepal
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      It is very important for you to visit our Terms and Conditions page before signing up for this program.
      GEEO Program Confirmation Process
      We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
      Cancellation Policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in written form by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your written cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105. Verbal cancellation requests will not be honored.
      • If you cancel 60 days or more prior to the start of your program, all payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires. (Exception for participants who receive grants from our university partners: To address disruption caused by cancellation from grant recipients, deposits paid by grant recipients are forfeited upon cancellation.)
      • If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      • If you cancel within 30 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      Trip Notes & Expectations
      Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program contained on this page. Our programs are quite adventurous, and we find that clients who read the trip details in full are happier with their experiences.
      1. ACCOMMODATION: We upgraded accommodation on this program compared to the hotels our tour operator G Adventures typically uses on this itinerary. It costs a bit more, but our guests have been very happy with the change. However, this is India so keep your expectations low as service level and amenities are often different than Western standards. The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe place for you to sleep. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised, but do not expect luxury. We will still have an overnight train and the homestay, so not all of the accommodation has been upgraded.
      2. TRANSPORTATION: The same goes for transportation. We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Sometimes you will have full days and nights of transportation as our trips tend to cover a lot of ground. Transportation will often be an adventure in itself.
      3. LUGGAGE: You must be able to easily carry or roll your luggage, so do not over-pack. Properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary. Carrying your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.
      4. ACTIVITY LEVEL & PACE: This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. The hardest element to deal with is the heat and humidity. We have been running this program over the summer for several years, and while the weather is not ideal, the trip always receives great reviews. We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
      5. MENTAL PREPARATION: Of all of GEEO’s programs, this is probably the one that causes the most culture shock. India and Nepal are thick with history, wonders, smells, colors, dirt, and bureaucracy the likes of which even experienced travelers have never encountered. It is amazing and at the same time overwhelming. You will see poverty. You will feel uncomfortable. You will probably get diarrhea. India takes some getting used to for most people, and the sooner you mentally adjust to the environment, the sooner you will be able to enjoy yourself. We highly recommend checking out the ‘Advice from Past Participants’ section further down the page for valuable insights and firsthand experiences about the program.
      6. CULTURE SHOCK/CHALLENGES: India is a country that is very different from anything you will have experienced before. Although this means it is not the easiest place to travel, this is also what makes it so special. Pollution, poverty, and the crowds can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge. During our time here, we have come to love this large and wonderfully different country, but we know that we should always expect to encounter some difficulties along the way.
      7. PATIENCE/FLEXIBILITY: In India, there are very different attitudes to timekeeping, public cleanliness, privacy, and service. Plumbing can sometimes be temperamental, and power will often just vanish. Optimistic menus turn out to have only one dish available and everyone – everyone – will want to know your name. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a healthy sense of humor, we know that you – like all of us – will be captivated by what India has to offer.
      8. STAYING LOW PROFILE: Please be careful about attracting too much attention to the group in large cities. An innocent conversation with a local man in a train station can result in the group being surrounded by 40 curious men who also want to talk or be in the group's physical space. It can get really uncomfortable even if they mean no harm. You will always attract attention as a westerner. Please ask your tour leader what is appropriate before interacting with local men.
      9. LOCAL CONNECTIONS: During our trip there will be many opportunities for you to meet and "talk" with locals. One way to start any conversation is with pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos/postcards of your family, home, city or country where you live, animals peculiar to your country etc.
      10. GROUP LEADER: Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip. All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure's group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
      Single Travelers
      Half of GEEO’s participants travel by themselves, so please don’t worry if you do not have a travel companion for your trip. Our program fee is for one traveler in double-occupancy accommodation, and GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender if you do not have a travel companion. Most of our programs have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that you can pay to have a room to yourself. You will only incur an additional charge if you specifically request a single room. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please find your program on our extra services page. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org to request a single room.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Local Office (Delhi) G Adventures South Asia Manager, Rishab (Delhi, India) Emergency number: From outside of India: +91 99 7179 5447 From within Delhi: 99 7179 5447 From within India, but outside Delhi: 099 7179 5447 G Adventures Asia Office in Bangkok (If for some reason you can’t reach any of India emergency numbers) 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. CST (GMT +7) Tel: +66 2 252 6642 If for any reason you are unable to reach the G Adventures local office, please call the numbers listed below to connect with their Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999 If your call is specifically concerning Airport Transfer complications, please call the local transfer provider directly: From outside India: +91 9278708888 From within Delhi: 9278708888 From outside Delhi: 09278708888 Airport Representative From outside India: +919599193260 or +919599051397 From within Delhi: 9599193260 or 9599051397
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person. Suggested Checklist
      • Clothes for religious sites – knees and shoulders must be covered
      • Small towel and swimwear
      • Raincoat and/or umbrella
      • Personal clothing for hot weather – we recommend packing 8-9 days of outfits, so you only have to do laundry once; covering shoulders is advisable
      • Shorts – covering knees is advisable for women; some would say men too
      • Long pants
      • Sturdy walking shoes – closed-toe is a good idea
      • Sport sandals or flip-flops
      • Daypack
      • Insect repellent
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Sun hat
      • Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
      • Toiletries – your hotels will have soap and shampoo
      • Camera (or use your phone)
      • First-aid kit, including: lip salve, aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
      Optional Checklist
      • Silk sleep sack – very nice to have on the train
      • Travel pillow
      • Lock for all bags
      • Flashlight or headlamp (or use your phone)
      • Money belt
      • Water bottle
      • Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can buy snacks when you get there too, so don’t go crazy here
      • Ziplock bags for wet clothing
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
      • Headscarf for women
      • Light fleece top
      • Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • Travel insurance ID card
      • Flight itinerary/boarding pass(es)
      • USD/EUR cash
      • Credit/debit card
      • G Adventures vouchers
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent a few days before departure
      Laundry
      Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge, or you can ask your tour leader where the nearest laundromat is located. In case you want to do your own laundry, we suggest you bring your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO programs require that the participant have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double check the information we provide below by searching the U.S. State Department's International Travel Guidance. INDIA U.S. citizens must purchase a visa in advance before traveling to India. India has an e-visa system that makes the process quite easy, and you do not have to send your passport to an embassy. The 30-day India tourist e-visa costs $10 (April to June) or $25 (July to March). Important: The 30-day validity period begins on the date the visa is issued, not on your arrival date. Although you can apply a maximum of 30 days (and a minimum of 4 days before your arrival in India), we strongly recommend waiting to apply once you are 25-20 days before your scheduled arrival date. If you receive a visa that expires the day after you are scheduled to arrive in India, and then you experience flight delays/cancellations that cause you to arrive later than scheduled, you could be denied entry to the country. To apply for a visa, please go to https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html and follow the instructions carefully. GEEO will provide further instructions approximately one month before your program is scheduled to begin. We have created an India eVisa Application Guidance document with more detailed explanations, including screenshots, for your reference. NEPAL For Nepal, you will have your photo taken and receive a visa at the border. A single-entry 15-day tourist visa can be obtained by paying $30 USD (must be crisp, new bills), and you will need at least one empty page in your passport. They do not give back any change, so make sure you have a crisp $10 bill and a crisp $20 bill.
      Money Exchange
      The local currency in India is the Indian rupee (INR), and the local currency is Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (NPR), although the Indian rupee is also widely accepted. As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently.
      Tipping
      It is customary to leave a small tip for service providers, such as waiters, if you are pleased with the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of this program and an expression of satisfaction with the people who assist you on your trip. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There will be opportunities during the trip to tip your local guides or drivers. You may do this individually, or your tour leader may offer to collect the money and give a tip on behalf of the group. Ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and expectations. Also, at the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, a tip would be appreciated. Tipping amounts are entirely your personal preference, but as a guideline:
      • Service providers/Waiters: 10% of the bill
      • Local guides and drivers: $2-3 USD per person per day
      • Tour Guide (CEO): $20-30 USD per person per week. We recommend tipping your tour leader in crisp $10 and $20 bills.
      Vaccinations
      GEEO cannot provide any medical advice, so it is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. We recommend contacting Passport Health, which has travel clinics located throughout the United States. You can also check the CDC's recommended vaccinations for your destination. Please take this seriously!
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available around 90-120 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. You should wait until this trip is confirmed before you book non-refundable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins in Delhi and ends in Kathmandu. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Delhi. You may want to arrive in Delhi one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart from Kathmandu any time on the final day of the program. For about $100, you can book a short flight from Kathmandu to Delhi, in which case you could buy a round-trip flight from your home city to Delhi.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S. India and Nepal use Type C and D plugs with two or three circular prongs, respectively, and the voltage is 230V. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section.
      Weather
      We run this trip before and/or after the peak of the monsoon season in South Asia (early to late July) to avoid the worst of the rain and flooding. It is still hot and will rain, but all of the trips we have run in the past at this time of year have gone fairly smoothly with regards to the weather.
      🗣️ Advice From Past Participants
      “I wish I had known not to be so anxious about this trip! I was worried I would be uncomfortable, and hungry (or sick) the entire time, however, that was completely not the case. Yes, it is hot and humid, but it is tolerable. Dress appropriately with extreme heat fabrics and you will be fine, stay hydrated and well-fed and you will be fine. The food was amazing and one of the highlights of the trip. In order to avoid Delhi Belly, etc., I made sure to eat lightly while my stomach adjusted to the new spices, etc., and I never got sick. I wish that I had brought a wider variety of clothes to wear since I ended up feeling sick of the same identical pairs of linen pants after a couple of weeks of wearing them! Also, laundry is available everywhere you stay more than one night, so keep that in mind while packing! Ladies, keep in mind humidity and dampness can mess with your pH balance if you know what I mean… Pack some Monistat! Most importantly have an open mind. Don’t expect to eat western or colonial food, don’t expect to blend right in with the locals (big group of Americans does attract attention), and don’t expect planes, trains, and automobiles to run flawlessly – but isn’t that all part of the adventure?” “There are a lot of things that people tell you that intimidate people from going to India. In the end, though, the people are friendly, the hotels are great (with an occasional cold shower or power outage, which should be expected), the food is excellent, the culture is rich, and the tour guide showed a great deal of care for the group and our safety and well being. I’m so glad I went on this trip!” “This trip is fast-paced, and you will have to wake up early on several mornings. It’s great because we see a lot, but know this isn’t exactly a relaxing vacation.” “If you are unhappy with your hotel room, don’t be shy: ask the hotel to change your room as sometimes there are big differences from one room to another.” “Pack light – laundry is readily available. Bring a hat. It’s ok to bring tank tops and shorts. You won’t be able to wear them all the time, but sometimes it’s good to have some options. Bring a swimsuit – the upgraded hotel pools are very nice. You will sweat. A lot. I mean more than you ever have in your life. Bring extra undergarments, because you will want to change after sweating through everything at the end of the day. The mosquitoes weren’t as big of a deal as I had previously thought but still wear bug spray. Some people struggled with the air quality, so be sure to have your inhaler with you if you use one. WiFi is available almost everywhere, but it can be slow, especially in India. Don’t expect to upload all your pictures while on the trip. Drink more water than you think you need. Choose to smile. And just enjoy the magic that is India and Nepal.” “Do NOT bring small U.S. bills to India, if you are bringing cash. A lot of the banks would only change $50 or $100 bills. The hotels would change money for you with NO charge and no crazy paperwork (as compared to money exchange places or banks). Do not bring Indian bills into Nepal bigger than 500 Indian rupees. The same would go in reverse for coming back to India. The airport would only take 1,000 Nepalese rupee notes. ATMs were plentiful and our tour leader was able to guide us to take out a certain amount if one was not available for a few days.” “Don’t worry about dressing to cover your shoulders and knees unless visiting a temple (our guide let us know ahead of time). We all wore knee-length shorts and skirts, short-sleeved shirts, basically what we wear at home.” “We recommend an extra day in Delhi at trip’s start to visit the National Museum, the Crafts Museum, and the Gandhi Smriti. Likewise, we added one extra day in Kathmandu. We hired a car and driver one day and went to the other two main cities in the valley, Bharatpur, and Patan. These were real highlights for us as was a stop at Paliputra on the way back to Kathmandu.” “I was concerned about being left to do things without my group members and/or guide. I was happy to always have company, whether shopping, touring, or eating. I think this would help ease people who are hesitant about visiting certain countries.” "You'll take off your shoes a lot to visit temples and floors are often wet. I had packed sneakers and didn't even touch them--I wore my Chaco sandals every day of the trip so that I wouldn't have to put wet feet back inside sneakers." "Bathroom floors are always wet and TP and towels are rarely provided. For that reason, I'm glad that all the clothes I packed had pockets to carry my own TP in with me." "Portion sizes are huge. We consistently couldn't finish our meals, but servers had trouble understanding when we wanted to share items." "I strongly recommend wearing loose, cotton/linen/Smartwool clothing. Pack enough clothes and undies for about 6 days. You'll have plenty of opportunities to wash laundry (each hotel where you stay two nights) BUT you won't want to re-wear anything because it will all get so sweaty. Pro-tip: I travel with a small bottle of Dr. Bronner's to handwash bras, panties, and other small items in the sink." "Random items I was glad to have along: a small headlamp, a small lock & cable, some electrolyte packets, and a pair of binoculars." "Everything I read about packing for India recommended covering knees and shoulders, so I didn't pack any shorts or tank tops. Although some folks in the group wore tank tops and shorts, I'm personally glad that I didn't because I didn't see any Indian women wearing shorts or tanks. You will be stared at no matter what, so I would rather make sure it's mere curiosity than shock, if that makes sense."
      Overnight Train
      From a recent traveler: “Arriving at the train station, you will most likely see hundreds of Indians crowded in front of the station. Once on the train, the sleeping quarters are very crowded. You need to make sure you are traveling with luggage that is easy to carry and store. Less is better. You will be provided with a blanket and sheet and pillow, but it is recommended that you bring along a travel sheet (like a sleeping bag, but just made of cotton or silk). It will make sleeping on the train more comfortable. There is no food or water on the train, so be certain to bring PLENTY of water and snacks. It is a 12-hour train ride and, after you leave the train, there is still quite a bit of travel until you will have an opportunity to eat a full meal. Although initially, the train may feel unsafe, once you get settled in, you will realize that everyone is just wanting to sleep and get to their destination. Don’t be surprised if you are in sleeping quarters with 6 people who are not in your group. They fill all the beds, which are arranged in bunk-bed style stacked 3 high, and they will have men and women sleeping in the same compartment.” "I had a wonderful roommate, but if I did this again I would probably choose to room alone. I'm an extrovert who loves talking and interacting with people, but a little downtime might have been a good idea. That said, the option to save money by rooming together is great." "- Comfortable waterproof shoes like Tevas or Chacos are the best. I wore mine almost all day, every day. Don't stress about the closed-toe shoe thing, which is one of the tips you get on the internet. Open toes are fine. - Be sure to have sunglasses and sunscreen - I never used my trusty reusable water bottle on this trip; I just drank bottled water because that was safest. - Bring Nuun tablets for rehydration - A small crossbody bag or fanny pack is better than a day pack for everyday sightseeing - Say YES to any experience offered!"
      Poverty
      From a recent traveler: “Even though you may be a seasoned traveler, you need to keep in mind that a trip to India is unlike most places in the world. Most people know that India is a poor country, but it can be a shock to all your senses when you arrive and experience poverty on a more intimate level. People, in massive numbers, are all over the place. You will see people sleeping on the street, and children are out begging almost every step of the way. Women need to be mindful as they navigate on foot. In the cities, men are not as respectful to women and will sometimes grab and grope. There are “women only” sections on trains, which should be used. As you navigate through the country on foot, tuck-tuck, bus, or train, you will often be accompanied by cows and goats and pigs, who use the streets to relieve themselves, along with humans. Garbage is everywhere. When you are walking, you might want to wear closed shoes because, along with garbage, you will most likely be walking through animal and human wastes.” A large percentage of Indians and Nepalese live below the poverty line. In India, you will be approached by many beggars. It can be intense, uncomfortable, and, of course, incredibly sad. As heartless as it sounds, our suggestion is you never give any money to beggars in India. It causes more harm than good. If you want to read up on the subject a bit more, take a look at this article.

      Costs

      Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
      • Tour Company Fee: See our price in the top right corner.
      • Optional Activities: $75-125 USD
      • International Airfare from the United States: Roughly $1,000-2,000 USD If you require assistance searching for international flights, we would be happy to help you.
      • Airport Transfers: An arrival transfer is included. Budget $10-25 USD for a departure transfer.
      • Airport & Departure Taxes: International Departure tax is 1,695 Nepalese Rupees (NPR) or 1,300 NPR, if you are traveling to SAARC (India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka) countries
      • Visa: $10-25 USD for the 30-day Indian tourist e-visa for Americans. You must get the Indian visa in advance. $30 for the Nepalese Visa for Americans (must be crisp, new bills or they will not be accepted). A digital photo is taken at the border for your visa.
      • Insurance: $79-200 USD Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
      • Tipping: We recommend $40-60 USD for your G Adventures tour leader. Budget another $70 to tip other local guides. These tips will be made in rupees in small denominations, typically about 30 rupees per guide per day.
      • Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary: $400-520 USD
      • Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.: Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      • Souvenirs: Variable. At your personal discretion.
      • Vaccines: Variable. Please consult with your primary care provider.
      • Non-Educator Donation: $100 USD (suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.

      Optional Activities

      Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally, sometimes in the local currency, and you do not have to decide in advance which ones you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please use them as a rough guide for budgeting your trip.
      DELHI
      Red Fort: ₹500 INR The Red Fort was built in the mid-17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and served as the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty for nearly 200 years. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of India's independence, as the country's prime minister hoists the national flag here every Independence Day. Qutab Minar: ₹550 INR The Qutab Minar is a 240-foot tall tower built in the early 13th century by Qutub-ud-din Aibak. It is considered to be one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of tourists every year. Humayun's Tomb: ₹550 INR This mausoleum was built for the Mughal Emperor Humayun. It was completed in 1572 and is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. The tomb is also the first Indian structure to incorporate the Persian double dome design, and it served as a model for the Taj Mahal.
      JAIPUR
      Raj Mandir Cinema: ₹200-400 INR Visit this spectacular cinema and watch a song-and-dance Bollywood film. Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds): ₹200 INR Enjoy a visit to the intricately-carved Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds," which is named for the cool breeze that comes through the structure and keeps it comfortable, even in the hot Jaipur summers. Explore the main complex, blossoming gardens, and the lake. City Palace: ₹700 INR Explore the courtyards, gardens, and buildings that make up the City Palace. Located in the heart of the Old City, it is a striking blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Visit the palace's museum to look at ancient carriages and the former maharaja's gold-embroidered wedding outfit. Jantar Mantar: ₹200 INR Visit the Jantar Mantar observatory to see how people looked at the stars and planets in ancient India. Explore the collection of astronomical instruments housed there, some dating back to 1727. Jaipur Cooking Class with a local family: $25 USD Join a local family in Jaipur as they welcome you into their home and share their recipes and best-loved dishes with you. Get hands-on with the ingredients and learn how to prepare pakodas, vegetable dishes, and Indian breads such as chapatis and puris. Once the hard work is done, get to know your hosts over lunch. Savor the flavors of your creations with the addition of other vegetable dishes, daal, and raita, and finish the meal with a sweet treat. Jaipur Cycle Tour: $35 USD With its many lanes and organized layout, Jaipur makes for the perfect location to explore by bicycle. Choosing to cycle through the city on this morning tour will introduce you to sights, sounds, and smells that a vehicle just can't match, so grab a helmet and jump on your bike! Navigate the streets of the 'Pink City' with the help of your experienced guide, starting the day with a traditional Indian yogurt drink of Lassi. Marvel at the architectural wonders as you enter the walled part of the city and stop at the City Palace to visit the Govind Dev temple. Wander through the historical spices and sweets market, stopping for tea and a tasty snack of pakoras before heading towards the majestic Albert Hall Museum where the tour ends.
      AGRA
      I’timad-ud-Daulah: ₹100 INR I’timad-ud-Daulah is a mausoleum located in Agra, India. It was built by Nur Jahan, the wife of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The tomb is often referred to as the "Baby Taj" due to its similarities to the Taj Mahal and is considered to be a significant precursor to the famous monument. Akbar’s Mausoleum: ₹235 INR Akbar's Mausoleum, also known as Akbar's Tomb, is a 16th-century tomb located in Agra, India. The tomb is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar and is considered an architectural marvel of the Mughal era, blending elements of Hindu, Persian, and Islamic styles. The tomb complex is surrounded by lush gardens and is a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world to marvel at its beauty and historic significance. Taj Nature Walk: ₹100 INR This scenic trail offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city and provides an opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and wildlife. The trail showcases diverse landscapes and an abundance of greenery, including indigenous trees and shrubs. Mehtab Bagh: ₹100 INR Mehtab Bagh is believed to have been a part of the Taj Mahal's original design, with a fantastic view of the monument from the garden's center. The garden offers a stunning view of the Taj Mahal, especially during sunrise and sunset, and is a popular spot for visitors and photographers.
      ORCHHA
      Cooking School: $15 USD As a place of spiritual importance and an impressive architectural site, it’s not hard to see what makes Orchha so unique. This is your chance to also taste what makes this town so special. You’ll learn how to concoct a warming cup of masala chai and a tasty snack of vegetable pakoras. Enjoy this as your hosts demonstrate how to make three different curries. Indulge in these delicious dishes with the accompaniments of raita, mango and guava chutneys, chapatis, and puris, as you get to know your hosts some more.
      VARANASI
      Sarnath Deer Park: ₹200 INR Explore the ruins at the site of the Buddha's first sermon. It is said that after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya Buddha continued to Sarnath. In a deer park, he preached his first discourse and set in motion the 'Wheel of the Dharma'. This is one of the holiest sites for Buddhists. Ramnagar Fort: ₹150 INR Ramnagar Fort is located on the opposite bank of the Ganges river from Varanasi. It was built in the 18th century by the Maharaja of Benares and is known for its blend of Mughal and Hindu architecture. The fort also houses a museum that displays the royal collection of the Maharaja of Benares.
      POKHARA
      International Mountain Museum: रु400 NPR This museum is dedicated to the culture, history, and achievements of mountaineers and climbers. The museum showcases a collection of photographs, artifacts, and equipment used by famous climbers and mountaineers. It also contains an exhibition about the Yeti, an outdoor "living museum" dedicated to Nepal's indigenous tribes, and a 31-foot replica of Mt. Manaslu. Devi’s Fall: रु100 NPR Devi's Fall, also known as Patale Chhango, is named after a local legend in which a goddess was said to have disappeared into the earth, creating the waterfall. Visitors can take a walk down to the bottom of the waterfall to view it up close.
      SARANGKOT
      World Peace Pagoda excursion: रु1000-1500 NPR per group Walk up to the World Peace Pagoda, which was constructed by Buddhist monks. Enjoy the structure and the beautiful view around it. Gorkha Museum: रु200 NPR Learn about the renowned Gurkha soldiers, famous for their bravery.
      KATHMANDU
      Durbar Square: $10 USD Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Kathmandu. The square is surrounded by temples, palaces, and shrines that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the city. It is considered one of the most important architectural heritage sites in the world and a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of Nepal. Everest flight: $260 USD 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.