India & Nepal on a Budget: Varanasi to Kathmandu
- Trip code: 458X011
- Dauer: 9
- Stil: 18-to-Thirtysomethings
From sacred rivers to soaring peaks, this nine-day adventure through India and Nepal serves up epic sights and spiritual vibes in one whirlwind trip. Kick things off in Varanasi with a sunrise cruise on the Ganges, then cross into Nepal to explore Buddha’s birthplace, spot rhinos on safari in Chitwan, and soak up Himalayan views in Pokhara. Big on culture, nature, and connection — this is South Asia done right.
Übersicht
Accommodation
Simple hotels or guesthouse (twin-share) (6 nts), homestay (2 nts)
Checklist
Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket
Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Train Travel (Optional):
• Slip-on shoes
• Small container with lid
• Travel cutlery
• Travel or camp cup
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
Bitte beachte: During the colder months (Oct-Apr) the mountains can be cold, so please make sure you pack warm clothes. During the months of Jul-Sep is the rainy season, so please make sure to pack waterproof clothes
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides
Group Size Notes
Max 20, avg 16
Highlights
Float down the sacred Ganges on a sunrise boat ride in Varanasi, Visit Buddha’s birthplace and explore ancient temples in Lumbini, Spot wildlife on safari in Chitwan National Park, Take in mountain views and chill vibes in Pokhara with free time to explore
Introduction
From sacred rivers to soaring peaks, this nine-day adventure through India and Nepal serves up epic sights and spiritual vibes in one whirlwind trip. Kick things off in Varanasi with a sunrise cruise on the Ganges, then cross into Nepal to explore Buddha’s birthplace, spot rhinos on safari in Chitwan, and soak up Himalayan views in Pokhara. Big on culture, nature, and connection — this is South Asia done right
Meals Included
1 Frühstück
Meal Budget
Plane USD215-280 für nicht inbegriffene Mahlzeiten ein
Optional Activities
Varanasi
- Besuch in Sarnath
- Heritage and Spiritual Walk in Old Benaras
Royal Chitwan National Park
- Radfahren (950NPR pro Person)
- Safari in Chitwan mit dem Allradfahrzeug (6900NPR pro Person)
- Aufenthalt in einer Barauli-Gemeinde
Sarangkot
- Wanderung in Sarangkot bei Sonnenaufgang (60NPR pro Person)
Pokhara
- Flug von Pokhara nach Kathmandu
Mount Everest
- Everest-Flug
Start / Finish
Varanasi nach Kathmandu
Transport
Train, private vehicle, walking, tuktuk, boat
What's Included
Dein G-for-Good-Moment: Barauli Community Connection, Royal Chitwan National Park
Dein G-for-Good-Moment: Sharing Seeds Experience, Pokhara
Dein Welcome-Moment: Anreise und Begrüßungstreffen
Dein First-Night-Out-Moment: Begegne neuen Freunden
Dein Local-Living-Moment: Besuch in einer Tharu-Gemeinde, Royal Chitwan National Park
Dein Big-Night-Out-Moment: Bar am Seeufer, Pokhara. Varanasi Orientation Walk. Free time in Varanasi. Morning Ganges Boat Tour. Maya Devi Temple Buddha's Birthplace Visit. Barauli Community Experience & Orientation Walk. Pokhara Orientation Walk. Sharing Seeds Experience. Free time in Pokhara. Kathmandu Orientation walk
Packing Note
During the colder months (Oct-Apr) the mountains can be cold, so please make sure you pack warm clothes. During the months of Jul-Sep is the rainy season, so please make sure to pack waterproof clothes
Internationale Flüge
Check-in-Zeiten und Freigepäck/Einschränkungen können je nach Fluggesellschaft variieren und sich jederzeit ändern. Für die aktuellsten Informationen zu deinem Flug wende dich bitte an deine Fluggesellschaft. Wir empfehlen Online-Check-in, um mögliche Verzögerungen am Flughafen zu vermeiden
Minimum Age 18+
The minimum age for this trip is 18 years
Itinerary
Day 1 Varanasi
Arrive at anytime. Meet your CEO and group in the evening for a welcome meeting, an orientation walk around Varanasi and your first night out!
Day 2 Varanasi
This morning, hop on a boat and sail the sacred Ganges River, where you will have the opportunity to witness a candle flower ceremony. Enjoy a free afternoon to uniquely explore the spiritual capital of India. Opt to bathe in the sacred waters or visit Kashi Vishwanath, the Golden Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Varanasi is your oyster!
Day 3 Varanasi/Lumbini
Today we leave India and travel to the peaceful land of Nepal. Step back in time and experience Buddha's birthplace - Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and pilgrimage centre. Visit the Maya Devi Temple, where the Queen gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama
Day 4 Lumbini/Royal Chitwan National Park
Experience Nepali rural life at Barauli Village homestay, a G Adventures–supported project. Take an orientation walk, visiting friendly homes and learn about the Tharu daily life. Opt to venture to the Narayani river on a cycle tour
Day 5 Royal Chitwan National Park
Enjoy a free day to explore the surrounding village and rice paddies before spending another night with the Tharu community. Opt to take a jeep safari through the diverse ecosystem of Chitwan National Park for a chance to witness rhinos, crocodiles, monkeys, and maybe even the elusive bengal tiger
Day 6 Royal Chitwan National Park/Pokhara
Travel from the peaceful plains towards the mystical Himalayan mountains, stopping in Pokhara. Get your bearings in town on an orientation walk. Be sure to capture a panoramic group photo with the stunning Annapurna range backdrop
Day 7 Pokhara
Enjoy breakfast at Sharing Seeds and learn how organic arabica coffee and beekeeping helps uplift the community. In the afternoon, get to know Pokhara more in-depth by freely exploring this photogenic region. Gear up for your big night out at a lakeside bar with your new friends. Cheers to all the life-changing adventures you've just shared!
Day 8 Pokhara/Kathmandu
Travel the last leg of this trip through the wild, rugged Himalayan landscape to Nepal’s capital and largest city, Kathmandu. Or opt to skip the drive and fly to Kathmandu for more time in the city. After the whole group arrives, get a feel for the city on an orientation walk. As Kathmandu is fascinating at every turn, simply wander around and see where chance, fate, or the city may lead you. Check out world-famous Durbar Square, King’s Palace, the burning ghats at Pashupatinath, or Boudhanath Stupa. Then join your crew for an optional farewell meal together!
Day 9 Kathmandu
Today is departure day, but do not fret! There is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange social medias, and depart at any time
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Varanasi
Day 2 Varanasi
Pre-book the Varanasi Heritage Walk and enjoy a guided tour that focuses more on the local life in Varanasi and its philosophical and cultural values. Witness pilgrims singing and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of Varanasi in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
Pre-book the Guided Visit of Sarnath and learn about the life of the Buddha. Discover the archeological ruins of the monastery. Explore the museum at Sarnath and the sacred Maha Bodhi Tree. Visit temples constructed by the buddhist people of Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan and stop to admire the Buddha statue during the three hours of guided exploration.
Day 3 Varanasi/Lumbini
This will be a longer travel day as it may take up to 12 hours to reach the city of Lumbini. Settle in with your fellow travellers and get to know each other as you take in the scenery. It is possible for most nationalities to get a Nepalese visa at the border for $30 USD. Nepal is 15 minutes ahead of India, time wise
Day 4 Lumbini/Royal Chitwan National Park
Day 5 Royal Chitwan National Park
Day 6 Royal Chitwan National Park/Pokhara
Day 7 Pokhara
In the morning, watch a spectacular Himalayan sunrise over the mountains before visiting a Planeterra project that benefits the local community.
Day 8 Pokhara/Kathmandu
Day 9 Kathmandu
If you wish to partake in the Everest Flight optional activity on the final day of tour, please do not book any outgoing flights from Kathmandu earlier than 12:00 noon
