Overview
Independent Spirit of India with Kathmandu
Eclectic temples, imposing forts, and pristine wildlife refuges—this is the ultimate introduction to India and Nepal. Begin in Mumbai to witness the famous tiffin lunchbox delivery system and the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. Continue to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu cities, for the striking Ganga Aarti on the ghats of the Ganges. In Delhi, navigate the 300-year-old Chandni Chowk bazaar by rickshaw, visit the white-marble Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, and explore the 16th-century Mughal garden-tomb of Humayun.In Agra, witness a truly incomparable sunrise at the Taj Mahal before exploring the red-sandstone Agra Fort. The "Pink City" of Jaipur follows, featuring the glittering Mirror Palace of Amber Fort and the massive Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory. Finally, fly to Kathmandu to discover the historic seat of royalty at Hanuman Dhoka and the residence of the Living Goddess at the Temple of Kumari. Conclude your journey at the massive Bouddhanath stupa and the sacred Hindu and Buddhist sites of Patan’s Durbar Square. Enjoy free time and optional excursions to experience this fascinating destination in your own way.
Highlights of Independent Spirit of India with Kathmandu
City Highlights
Related Tours
Transportation
Travelers Notes
Special features included in this tour:• Private guided sightseeing in Mumbai includes Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Ghandi• Train ride to Mahalaxmi Station and experience Mumbai’s tiffin lunch box delivery system• Visit a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat)• Take a boat ride at dawn to observe the Hindus’ devotional bathing and meditation rituals in the Ganges River• Witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the steps leading to the Ganges• Private guided sightseeing in Delhi includes the Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and Qutub Minar• Rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk bazaar• Sunrise visit and guided tour of the Taj Mahal• Guided visit to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site• Private guided sightseeing in Jaipur with visits to Jantar Mantar and the City Palace Museum• Visit to Ladli, a skills-training program for local youth• Guided tour of the Amber Fort• Private guided sightseeing in Kathmandu includes Hanuman Dhoka, the Temple of Kumari, and Bouddhanath• Visit Patan and Durbar Square
UNESCO Sites
Agra Fort|Amber Fort|Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus|Humayun's Tomb|Jaipur Walled City|Jantar Mantar|Qutab Minar|Taj Mahal
Independent Tour
Venture further to enjoy the world your way without the group. The experts at Globus put Peace of Mind first in travel planning. We take care of the details with included hotel accommodations, daily breakfasts and select meals, guided sightseeing, and transportation between cities. Explore confidently, knowing your Globus Local Hosts and GlobusGO mobile app provide you with tips and recommendations to personalize your tour and see the world your way.
Product Group
Independent Spirit of India
Meals
Breakfast daily, 6 Lunches
Itineraries
Day 1
ARRIVE IN MUMBAI, INDIAWelcome to India! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2
MUMBAIYour private guided sightseeing starts with an orientation for photos at some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Witness Mumbai’s fascinating tiffin lunch box delivery system. At Churchgate Station, the dabbawalas (box carriers) transfer the lunch boxes onto a wooden cart on a local train. Board the train for the short ride to Mahalaxmi Station where you’ll disembark and watch the boxes being sorted by color for final delivery. Visit a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. (B,L)
Day 3
MUMBAI–VARANASIToday, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. (B)
Day 4
VARANASINear dawn, board a boat and watch a moving religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. Observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga, meditating, take a ritual dip and offer flowers to the river. Return to your hotel for breakfast and leisure time. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading to the sacred Ganges River.(B)
Day 5
VARANASI–DELHIToday, fly to Delhi, India’s capital city. (B)
Day 6
DELHIYour private guided sightseeing tour starts with a drive to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling goods and souvenirs—from silver and saris to spices and electronics. (B,L)
Day 7
DELHI–AGRAThis morning, explore Delhi on a private guided tour. Start at Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret constructed in the early 13th Century. Visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi’s largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship). After lunch, drive to Agra, a city where much of the city’s impressive past is still evident in the majesty of her buildings.(B,L)
Day 8
AGRAMeet your Local Guide for a special visit to the captivating Taj Mahal at sunrise. This extravagant marble monument was built by Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth. In the afternoon, a private guided tour brings you to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Moghul Emperor Akbar, this impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces.(B)INSIDER PICKSExplore more on your own or join an optional excursion to Itmad-ud-Daula, the city’s beautiful “Baby Taj.”
Day 9
AGRA–JAIPURToday, drive to Jaipur, often referred to as the “Pink City.” After lunch, visit Jantar Mantar and explore the City Palace Museum with its collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes. Later, visit Ladli, a training program empowering orphaned children by teaching them the valuable vocational skills they need. During your visit, you’ll learn about the project, interact with the children, and help them practice their English skills. As part of Globus family of brands Lighthouse Project, this meaningful organization is one example of our commitment to supporting the people and places we share with you. (B,L)
Day 10
JAIPURTravel by Jeep to visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the “Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan.” Rising above the hills of Jaipur, this fortress-palace was built entirely of white marble and red sandstone, and features intricate mosaics, carvings, paintings, and mirror works reflective of Rajasthan’s royal past. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. (B)INSIDER PICKSJoin a Local Guide for an evening walking tour through old Jaipur. Mingle with the locals and stroll through the street food markets while sampling the region’s culinary delights like samosas and pakoras.
Day 11
JAIPUR–KATHMANDU, NEPALFly to Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city.(B)KATHMANDU-STUPA.jpg
Day 12
KATHMANDUYour morning private sightseeing tour starts with a visit to Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty. Then, visit the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess and said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree. The remainder of your day is at your leisure. (B,L)
Day 13
KATHMANDUThis morning, a private guided tour takes you 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)
Day 14
KATHMANDUYour vacation ends with breakfast this morning.(B)
Departures
Hotels
| # | Name | Description | City | Address | Rating |
| 1 | Taj President, Mumbai | Taj President, Mumbai exudes nostalgia combined with world-class service and hospitality. Strategically located, the hotel is close to all the major attractions and award winning restaurants. Guest rooms are crafted for the global traveler and are spacious and bright. Hotel Amenities include iconic restaurants, a stylish lounge bar and outdoor pool, making it an urban oasis. | Mumbai | 90 Cuffe Parade | Moderate Deluxe |
| 2 | Radisson Hotel Varanasi | The Radisson Hotel Varanasi, located in the heart of the city's illustrious business district, boasts 116 spacious rooms, modern architecture, and amenities including high-speed Internet access, multiple dining outlets, and an on-site spa. It provides easy access to top attractions like Kashi Vishwanath, Ganga ghats, and many other temples. During your stay, be sure to take advantage of a fitness center, open air pool, and on-site restaurant with a lounge. | Varanasi | The Mall, Cantonment | Superior First-Class |
| 3 | Le Meridien New Delhi | Ideally located in the heart of New Delhi, the luxurious Le Meridien New Delhi stands tall over the historic landscape of Lutyen's Delhi. The hotel features a sophisticated and modern design, and sweeping views of New Delhi. | Delhi | Windsor Place, New Delhi | Moderate Deluxe |
| 4 | Taj View Agra | Spread over six acres of manicured gardens and equipped with smart rooms, the Taj View Agra offers the finest amenities alongside hassle-free services. With friendly staff offering impeccable service and hospitality, the hotel blurs the lines between business and pleasure. | Agra | Taj Ganj, Fatehabad Road | Superior First-Class |
| 5 | Jaipur Marriott Hotel | Experience a winning combination of traditional luxury and convenience at the Jaipur Marriott Hotel. Entrenched in the cultural legacy of India's Pink City, this hotel offers an array of modern amenities and an exquisite range of dining experiences. Rooms provide solace and rejuvenation after a day of exploring Jaipur. | Jaipur | Ashram Marg, Near Jawahar Circle, Rajasthan | Superior First-Class |
| 6 | Vivanta Kathmandu | Located in the vibrant Patan district of Kathmandu, the Vivanta Kathmandu whisks guests into an oasis of modern comforts in one of the most far-flung locations in the world. Guestrooms are sophisticated and versatile. After a day of exploring the city head up to the rooftop pool and bar for the finest views over Kathmandu. | Kathmandu | Jhamsikhel Road 3, Lalitpur | Superior First-Class |
