Best of India with Kerala and Nepal

Visit Asia

Day 1

Welcome to Kathmandu

Keep a keen eye out for the rainbow-coloured prayer flags flapping in the wind as your transfer from Kathmandu Airport takes you to your hotel.

Spirituality is the cornerstone of Nepalese culture, and this is revealed in the many shrines and temples that dot its capital, which you'll get to explore in the coming days. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Day 2

Stupas and Temples of Kathmandu and Patan Make Travel Matter

Your first stop today is the UNESCO-listed shrine of Swayambhunath.

Uncover its history spanning millennia. Admire the galleries of prayer mills and gleaming white stupa, whose gilded spire provides the colourful eyes of Buddha a lofty vantage point from which to survey the surrounding valley. Share the intricately carved stone façades with the resident monkeys and admire the artistry of Nepalese craftsmanship. You'll see all this as you walk through the remnants of Buddhist and Hindu iconography, said to be around 2000 years old. Proceed to the heart of the old town and Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will gain a deeper understanding of its role in the centuries of rule over this mountain kingdom. See the traditional pagoda-style architecture reflected in the temples and palaces that surround the square – the Hanuman Dhoka palace complex, the Mahadev Temple, the House of the Goddess Kumari and Taleju Temple. After some free time for lunch, journey to nearby Patan, renowned for its collection of ancient temples, carvings and palaces, which you will see first-hand during a visit to Patan Durbar Square, a generic name given to plazas and areas located opposite Nepal's old royal palaces. Delve into the ancient Buddhist heritage of the City of Beauty and visit the Krishna Temple and Golden Temple. Later, MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during your visit to the Tibetan Refugee Camp, which features a handicraft centre and provides shelter to the families of Tibetan refugees who fled the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1959. Among these were gifted Tibetan carpet weavers whose talents remain on display today at the Jawalakhel Handicraft Centre. You could choose to buy some of the traditional Tibetan handicrafts as a memento of your trip. Then it’s back to Kathmandu for a well-deserved evening at leisure.

Day 3

Explore Kathmandu Dive Into Culture

The UNESCO-listed city of Bhaktapur and its impressive Durbar Square are the main attractions today.

While the city is rebuilding its fallen temples, it remains a cultural centre. Stroll along narrow alleys and admire artisans at work. Watch how they weave cloth, carve timber and make pottery, which dries in all its terracotta brilliance in open squares for all to admire. Dive Into Culture and join a local potter for a workshop to learn how Bhaktapur has been a pottery centre for centuries. You'll see first-hand how traditional techniques are still used. Large spinning wheels are coaxed into action with a long stick and the rapid stirring of the talented potters to shape all sorts of ceramics out of lumps of clay. Get your hands dirty and hone your own pottery talents as you make your own creation to take home as a memento of your visit. If you have time, stop in one of the squares and sample the famous Juju Dhau, Newari yoghurt treat, enjoyed in a ‘takeaway’ pottery bowl. Later, return to the hotel and enjoy some free time. You could consider joining an Optional Experience to witness a poignant Aarti ceremony at Pashupatinath Temple on the banks of the Bagmati River.

Day 4

Kathmandu to Delhi

Your soulful encounter with Nepal at its end, but your journey through India is just beginning.

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Delhi. India's vibrant capital extends a lively welcome, launching an unforgettable experience through northern India’s most exquisite sights. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner.

Day 5

Discover the Delights of Old Delhi Dive Into Culture

Savour the scents of spice as you embark on an exhilarating rickshaw ride, navigating the busy streets of Old Delhi.

See the Red Fort, a sandstone fortress which once housed the emperors of the Mughal dynasty for centuries. Next, Dive Into Culture as you ride through the colourful Chandni Chowk market and watch it come to life as the day's trading begins amidst the sounds of enthusiastic salesmen and endless traffic. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Admire its ornate façades before boarding a waiting vehicle to drive to Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Pay tribute to this beloved figurehead, who led the campaign for India’s independence from Britain. You’ll come face-to-face with the site where he was cremated following his assassination in 1948. Today the simple square platform of black marble is surrounded by a tranquil park, befitting of its status as a place of contemplation. Your next stop is Agrasen Ki Baoli, one of the most noteworthy stepwells in Delhi. Hidden amidst the cacophony of Delhi’s streets and business towers, this ancient water reservoir rises from the depths of the earth to stand atop 103 stone steps. Spend a few moments of serenity amidst its centuries-old ornate arches before returning to your hotel for an afternoon of leisure or consider one of our Optional Experiences.

Day 6

See the Sights of Delhi Make Travel Matter

This morning, embark on a guided walking tour to discover the work done by the Salaam Baalak Trust, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.

This non-profit organisation that aims to provide a caring environment for street children. Later, we'll walk through the bazaar of Paharganj, rubbing shoulders with the locals who flock to the market to shop everyday. Escape the noise and head to New Delhi, designed and built by the British in the 1920s. Your first stop here is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb, the earliest example of Mughal architecture in India. Recently renovated with the gardens restored to their former glory, you’ll see first-hand why it served as the inspiration for the design of the famous Taj Mahal. Enjoy local flavours for lunch at a restaurant near India Gate, then head to the Qutub Minar complex, also a UNESCO listed site. This fluted ‘Victory Tower’ is decorated with elaborate inscriptions, geometric carvings and elegant balconies. Returning to your hotel later, drive past Lutyens' Delhi to view the elegant colonial façades leading British architect Edwin Lutyens left behind on the cityscape. You'll have the rest of the afternoon at leisure, or perhaps join one of our Optional Experiences.

Day 7

Sunset at the Taj Mahal

It’s time to leave Delhi behind, bound for the Uttar Pradesh city of Agra.

There are many reasons to love Agra and its own ‘monument to love’, the Taj Mahal, is perhaps the most captivating of all. Marvel at its elegant marble façades awash with the sunset's rose and golden hues. Admire this well-preserved landmark from all sides and take time to contemplate the magnificence of this man-made wonder before re-joining your fellow travellers. This evening, you could choose to end a memorable day at an optional sound and light show prior to dinner.

Day 8

From the Taj to the Tigers

There’s more to Agra than the Taj Mahal as you’ll come to discover this morning during your visit to the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort.

Stroll through the chambers of a 17th-century royal residence which served as the principal residence of the influential Mughal emperors until the capital was moved to Delhi. Continue to the long-deserted ‘Ghost Town’ of Fatehpur Sikri, built at great expense by Emperor Akbar in 1569 only to be abandoned soon afterwards due to a lack of water. The city remains beautifully preserved, albeit with an air of melancholy – a rusty-red sandstone masterpiece devoid of inhabitants. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Bharatpur. Then, appreciate first-hand a quintessential travel experience in India as you board a train bound for Ranthambore, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.

Day 9

Roam Ranthambore in Search of Tigers

Head out on an early morning game drive, one of the best times to spot the elusive Bengal tiger.

Animals spotted and breakfast eaten, visit Dhonk Textile Studio, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, where local women create handcrafted textiles as part of a conservation initiative that supports ethical livelihoods and protects wildlife. Enjoy some time to unwind before heading back into the park for your second game drive, making the most of your last chance to spot Ranthambore’s incredible wildlife.

Day 10

Onwards to Jaipur Dive Into Culture

Continue your journey to Jaipur, the Pink City.

After some free time for lunch, join a workshop on hand-block printing, one of the most famous traditional art forms of Rajasthan. A Local Specialist will show you the tricks of the trade as you observe how the prints are handmade using small wooden blocks and hone your own block-printing skills.Later, Dive Into Culture and see the talents of local craftspeople on display during a visit to a local market. Admire the colourful textiles and perhaps buy a memento or two to take home. Jaipur is particularly renowned for its embroidery and blue pottery.This evening, join a local family for an exclusive Be My Guest experience with dinner in their home and savour some of the regional delicacies.

Day 11

Explore Colourful Jaipur

One of today's highlights is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort.

But first, stop to admire the red and pink façades of the Palace of Winds, whose latticed windows once revealed the outside world to the sheltered ladies of the royal household. Continue with a visit to the ornate City Palace, an impressive complex of buildings from different eras and gardens in the heart of the Old City. Enjoy some time for lunch before visiting the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Observatory, featuring the world's largest sundial. Later, perhaps join our optional Aarti ceremony, offering a blessing to one of the Hindu deities and hopefully receiving one in return. This evening, we'll toast to shared memories over a delicious local Farewell Dinner with those guests ending their journey in Jaipur.

Day 12

Venutre to Varanasi Dive Into Culture Make Travel Matter

Depart Jaipur this morning and board your included flight to embark on a pilgrimage to the sacred city of Varanasi to explore the city's role as the centre of Hindu religion.

There’s a palpable sense that life begins and ends on the shores of Ganga Mata (Mother Ganges), but local spirituality extends beyond the sacred waters of the river. The city is also renowned for its ancient temples and old ghats that lead down to the river. You’ll see all this and more, but first there’s free time for lunch before the sightseeing. Next experience a rural way of life while visiting weavers in Varanasi, where a Local Specialist reveals the centuries-old silk weaving tradition. Your visit during this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience will help the community’s efforts to keep this extraordinary tradition alive. You'll see first-hand how the talented weavers create beautiful silk fabrics. These are used to make the famous Banarasi silk saris, highly sought after for weddings and other special occasions. Later this evening, feed your soul as you cruise down the River Ganges to witness the ritual of Aarti. Watch as the delicate diya, laden with candles and tiny flowers, float down the river. After this poignant ritual, return to the hotel for dinner.

Day 13

Witness Local Life Along the Ganges

Admire the changing light as the sun rises over the Ganges, and the sights and sounds of Varanasi come to life along the banks of the river.

Observe locals taking their morning bath in the holy water and worshipping the rising sun. Afterwards explore the city on foot, the best way to immerse yourself in the day-to-day of the oldest living city of the world. You’ll have an opportunity to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi's main temple. Demolished and rebuilt many times over its history, the temple is a sight to behold with its towering spire and domes made of pure gold. Return to your hotel for breakfast and some free time. Perhaps choose to join our Optional Experience to watch a live performance of Indian classical dances known as Kathak. This afternoon, visit Sarnath, one of the four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Explore the spectacular collection of Buddhist artefacts dating back to the 3rd century BC and see the Lion Capital of Ashoka with its inverted lotus carving, adopted as the national emblem of India. Continue to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Day 14

Welcome to Kochi, Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala

It's time to bid farewell to Varanasi.

Take a transfer to the airport for your onward flight via Mumbai to Kochi, where your spiritual and cultural encounter with India continues. The bountiful backwaters of Kerala, ‘God’s own country’, welcome you. This slice of southern India is a lush garden filled with spices, brilliant colours and the enchanting sounds of nature. Relax on the tranquil shores of the Arabian Sea and let the freshest seafood melt in your mouth as you sink into a more straightforward way of life – one where nature sets the pace for the day.

Day 15

Nature and Relaxation in Periyar Dive Into Culture

Your love affair with Kerala’s lush landscapes begins today.

Head to Periyar, named after Kerala’s longest river which winds its way deep through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, your first stop.  Why not spend the afternoon soaking up the sounds of nature during an Optional Experience, an immersive Nature Walk with a Local Specialist? Tread lightly along the dense forest trails as you learn about the endemic flora and fauna. Banyan, Teak and Bamboo trees provide a serene backdrop for a lesson in Kerala wildlife. You might even be lucky enough to see herds of wild elephant and bison seeking to quench their thirst along the quiet shores of Periyar Lake. And don’t forget to look up – hornbills, flycatchers and kites are just some of the many species of local and migratory birds that flock to this pristine sanctuary.  With your soul soothed after connecting with nature, you’ll head to your hotel to freshen up before the excitement continues. Get ready to Dive Into Culture with a Kalarippayattu performance. Watch as trained Kalari warriors show off this ancient martial art, jumping and somersaulting in the ultimate coordination between mind and body. After all that action it’s your turn. Unleash your inner warrior with a Kalarippayattu lesson guided by skilled masters.

Day 16

Onwards to Kumarakom Dive Into Culture

The intoxicating scents of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves linger long after today’s encounter with Kerala’s famous spices.

Your first stop today is a visit to Kumily Spice Garden. Here you’ll learn how the locals grow and share an astounding variety of flavourful spices, ranging from pepper and ginger to vanilla and cardamom, the 'Queen of Spices'. Gain in-depth insights into the process of spice cultivation and discover how Kerala’s international spice trade has shaped its culture and heritage. There’s more to experience as you head to Kumarakom, a tranquil village set on the peaceful banks of Lake Vembanad, the largest lake in Kerala. Embark on a walking tour and Dive Into Culture as you admire the vibrant day-to-day of village life in the regional market and lively streets.

Day 17

Cruise the Calm Backwaters

Kerala’s intrinsic relationship with water takes centre stage today.

But first, maybe start your morning with an optional yoga session, embracing the tranquillity of your surroundings before breakfast. Then, board a traditional houseboat for a cruise through Kerala’s iconic waterways. Take a deep breath and enjoy the slow, sultry pace of life as you wind your way to Alleppey, passing villagers in wooden Shikaras and palm-fringed shores. Even your ride for the day is rooted in history. These houseboats, known as Kettuvalloms, were once used to ferry rice and spices. Upon arriving in Alleppey, disembark and return to Kumarakom for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 18

Explore Multi-Cultural Kochi Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals

The remnants of Kerala's colourful, centuries-old trading history are best explored in the old port city of Kochi.

It was here that Chinese, Arab and European merchants came to buy the fragrant spices that found their way to tables all over the world. In turn, they left their mark on Kochi's architecture, cuisine and traditions. Colonial bungalows, Catholic churches, mosques and a European fort season the cityscape that was once known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Enjoy time for lunch before embarking on a city tour to see first-hand this multicultural centre, including views of the Mattancherry Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church, built by Portuguese traders. Visit the Fort Kochi area and see traditional cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, unique to this part of Kerala. See how these fixed land installations made on bamboo scaffolding are artfully lowered into the sea to catch the seafood for which Kochi is famous. This evening, Connect With Locals and enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local family followed by a delicious Be My Guest Farewell Dinner.

Day 19

Farewell Kochi

Your epic encounter with Kerala’s culture and natural wonders has come to an end, but your memories will last a lifetime.

Say farewell to your travel companions and take an airport transfer for your onward flight.

Dining Summary

18 Breakfast (B)

11 Dinner (D)

4 Lunch (L)

1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

1 Be My Guest (BMG)

Be My Guest

Jaipur: Savour dinner with a local family at their home in Jaipur.

Kochi: Dine with a local family in their home in Kochi and gain a fascinating insight into their lifestyle.

Dive into Culture

Bhaktapur: Observe the skills of a master pottery at a pottery workshop in Bhaktapur.

Jaipur: Discover the vibrant craft of block-printing in Jaipur with a Local Specialist. You’ll get a live demonstration before learning about this centuries-old art form, then roll up your sleeves and create your own masterpiece using the carved wooden blocks. 

Periyar National Park: Witness the ancient art of Kalarippayattu as Kalari warriors dazzle you with leaps and somersaults. Afterwards, you’ll discover the discipline and skill behind this tradition with a hands-on martial arts lesson. This is your chance to channel the spirit of Kerala’s heritage in the most exciting way.

Iconic Experience

Kathmandu: Tour Kathmandu's Durbar Square and see the Royal Palace.

Kathmandu: Visit sacred Swayambhunath, known as the Monkey Temple for its mischievous inhabitants.

Patan: See Patan's Durbar Square, and enjoy a visit to the Krishna Temple and Golden Temple. 

Bhaktapur: Visit Bhaktapur's Durbar Square and stroll along the characteristic streets of this cultural centre. 

Delhi: Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi.

Jama Masjid: Admire the red sandstone and marble details of Jama Masjid during your visit to one of the largest mosques in the country. 

Delhi: Visit Agrasen Ki Baoli and take in the arched niches of this citybound step well. 

Delhi: See Old Delhi's Red Fort. 

New Delhi: During your orientation of New Delhi, visit Humayun's Tomb, and see India Gate and the Qutub Minar complex. 

Taj Mahal: View the Taj Mahal, known as one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.

Agra: Inside Agra’s red sandstone fortress, witness the fairytale palaces, audiences halls and mosques of the Mughal rulers. 

Agra: See the imposing gate to the Jama Masjid and gain insight into life in Fatehpur Sikri, now a deserted ''ghost town.''

Ranthambore National Park: Tour Ranthambore National Park for a chance to glimpse the resident animals and birdlife. 

Jaipur: Visit a local market in Jaipur.

Jaipur: During an orientation of Jaipur, visit the Amber Fort, City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory. 

Varanasi: Cruise down the Ganges and delve into local tradition as you witness the ritual of Aarti. 

Varanasi: As the sun rises over Varanasi, view the banks of the River Ganges come to life during a morning boat ride.

Varanasi: During your brief orientation of the city, visit some of the famous temples. You'll also visit Sarnath, where Buddha first taught the Dharma.

Kumarakom: Discover rural life on a walking tour with a local market visit.

Kumily: Learn about time-tested customs and the cultural significance of spice cultivation during your visit to Kumily Spice Garden.

Kerala Backwater Day Tours: Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional houseboat. Get an insider's look at the day-to-day activities of locals as you journey along Kerala's waterways. 

Kochi: See the unique Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Patan: Visit the Tibetan Refugee Centre which features the Jawalakhel Handicraft Centre.

Delhi: The Delhi City Walk tour explores lesser-known attractions around Paharganj and New Delhi Railway Station, guided by a teenager at the Trust who once lived and worked on the streets of Delhi. This personal touch makes the tour special and gives you a view of the tour guide's world through their eyes. City Walk is an example of how a volunteer's creativity can translate into a unique and enduring programme, which is both popular and economically viable.

Ranthambore National Park: Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Dhonk Textile Studio, where local women produce handcrafted textiles as part of a conservation initiative that provides ethical livelihoods and deters tiger poaching. Meet the artisans, learn about their work and see how your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5 & 15: Gender Equality and Life on Land. 

Varanasi: At Weavers Village discover the community's efforts to keep the centuries-old silk weaving tradition alive.

Must-see Highlights

Explore Delhi, Jaipur and Varanasi

Visit Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, Humayun's Tomb and Qutub Minar in Delhi, the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Ranthambore National Park, Amber Fort and the City Palace in Jaipur and Sarnath

View the Palace of Winds in Jaipur

See the Red Fort, Parliament House and India Gate in Delhi

Trafalgar Difference

Ranthambore: Jaskaur Meena, a farmer and an educationist took a courageous decision to enter into the hospitality sector and started the first hotel business in the area of Ranthambore. The hotel was named after her late son Anurag. The land back in 1984 and nothing else but a temple, no houses, just forest. Jaskaur was the first lady to lead the hotel industry in the area and start a new era of tourism in Sawai Madhopur and went on becoming the first successful woman entrepreneur in Rajasthan. As a born farmer half the hotel’s land is used for agriculture and dairy which supplies organic produce to the hotel.

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