trip details for moguls, mosques & mahals (SKD)

India and Nepal. An exciting journey encompassing India's most potent features, the elusive tiger and the spectacular Taj Mahal. OK, Indian roads are perhaps not the best in the world and yes it can be dusty, but you don't get more impressive that Delhi Agra, Jaipur and Varanasi. You will be travelling through India from the cool of the Himalayas to the plains of the north. The highlights are obvious, but it's the journey that counts. Annie Owen's highlight, playing cricket with the kids in an Indian village at a lunch break between Khajuraho and Orchha. Ben Grayling's best moment, having a shave on the streets of Varanasi.

is this trip for me?

Route: Kathmandu to New Delhi or v.v.

Length of Section: 15 Nights

Profile: A busy trip taking in all the main highlights, cities and temples as well as some off the beaten track areas. Easy lifestyle, no trekking but with good wildlife opportunities. A couple of long drives and some poor roads but well worth the hassle because of the amazing sites. Ideal for a short adventure break. Throw yourself into India!

Adventure Rating: Easy

Crew: 2 crew & guides where necessary.

Vehicle: Classic Dragoman truck.

Accommodation: Mainly hostels/hotels and some wild camps. (20% camping, 80% hotels)

what's included?

Nights 1-3: Nepal:

Wander the backstreets of medieval Kathmandu
Overland from mountain passes to jungle tracks
Atmospheric lodge stay at Rhino Lodge overlooking the river (includes all food)
Guided walks, canoe trips and elephant safari through Chitwan NP in search of tigers and rhinos

Nights 4-6: Uttar Pradesh:

2 nights to take in the incredible city of Varanasi
At dawn drift down the holy River Ganges at Varanasi

Nights 7-10: Madhya Pradesh:

3 night in Bandhavgarh NP in search of leopards and tigers, including a jeep safari
Guided tour of the famous erotic temples at Khajuraho

Nights 11-12: Uttar Pradesh:

2 night stay in the historic city of Agra
Check out the amazing Taj Mahal and the Red Fort at Agra

Nights 13-15: Rajasthan & Delhi:

Discover the hidden secrets of Fatehpur Sikri, Akbars ancient capital
2 nights and guided tour of Jaipur, the beautiful Pink City
Experience the hustle and bustle of Delhi

what can I do on the way?

(Activities available at extra costs)

Help wash elephants and visit the elephant breeding centre in Chitwan NP
Explore the stupas and temples of Varanasi
Elephant back safari In Bandhavgarh NP in seach of tigers

notes:

General notes: Kitty does not cover food while staying in hotels or hostels.

Trips travelling in India before 1st October, will not be able to visit Bandhavgarh NP. Instead they will spend longer in Chitwan NP in Nepal and spend time at the Royal Beach Camp activity centre in the Himalayas. They will also visit the deserted palaces and temples Orchha. For full details please see the trip notes.