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Delhi to Kathmandu Quest | with Nepal Trek Challenge |
Tour Description:
Welcome to the colourful kaleidoscope of India and Nepal. In 17 days, you’ll go from seeing iconic hotspots like the Taj Mahal to exploring the quaint valleys of the Himalayas on a challenging trek. You’ll also see the sacred sites of Varanasi, meet rescued elephants and even spot the Bengal tiger! Then, we'll top it off with an intense trek with once-in-a-lifetime views of Nepal's valleys.
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Dates & Pricing
| Friday 03 Jan 25 — Sunday 19 Jan 25 | Starting at $4,255 |  SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Friday 21 Feb 25 — Sunday 09 Mar 25 | Starting at $4,255 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Friday 07 Mar 25 — Sunday 23 Mar 25 | Starting at $4,255 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.
Destination & Sightseeing
Destination & SightseeingDining Summary
16 Breakfast (B)
6 Dinner (D)
4 Lunch (L)
FAQs
Delhi: What Visa do I need for India & Nepal? Most travellers (everyone other than citizens of Nepal & Bhutan) need to get a 30-day e-visa when travelling to India. You can apply through the Government of India’s official website. Check out our visa guide for more info.Don’t forget - you’ll need this Ground Handler information when you apply for the e-visa: Travel Scope India Office No. 215, Qutab Plaza, Ashoka Crescent Marg, DLF Phase 1, Sector 26, Gurugram, Haryana 122002, India Phone: +91 124 499 9499For Nepal, everyone other than citizens of India need a visa. You can either get one on arrival. Or in some cases, you can get an e-visa (they tend to be temperamental though!). If you're applying on arrival, please bring passport photos and USD with you!
Delhi: What are the luggage restrictions for India? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29”x 20”x 10”), with a max weight of 15kg (33lbs). Plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights. It might be a lower-than-normal weight allowance. But that’s the luggage limit for domestic flights. So remember to save some space for all that shopping!Got some overweight baggage? Don’t worry. You might be able to pay in cash for the extra weight. But you won’t be able to upgrade the luggage allowance before the start of the trip.
Delhi: How do I make my way from Delhi Airport to the starting point? It’s simpler than you think! Once you exit the airport, look for the ‘Pre-Paid Taxi’ stall (with a yellow-sign). These taxis are run by the Delhi Police, and are very reliable. All you need to do is approach the counter and tell them you wanna go to ‘Green Park’ (that’s where our hotel is located, close to the metro station).
Delhi: What currency do I need to visit India? The currency used in India is the Indian Rupee (₹). Don’t forget to keep some cash in hand. But in case you forget, you’ll find ATMs readily accessible in cities.
Kathmandu: Is there a Trip Manager on the trips to Nepal? If you’re on the Delhi to Kathmandu Quest trip, you’ll have a Trip Manager with you.For Nepal Trek & Temples and Nepal Trek Challenge there isn’t a Contiki Trip Manager because these treks are conducted by our trusted third party operator. But don’t worry, you’ll still have an experienced local guide with you.
Kathmandu: How fit do travellers need to be to book the treks? Nepal Trek and Temples You don’t have to do any strenuous training for these treks. But they definitely involve walking 3-6 hours a day on an average. You’ll have a porter who’ll carry your backpacks and other essentials. But since there isn’t any road access during the trek, you’ll have to finish the trek in its entirety once you start. Nepal Trek Challenge We recommend that you consider some additional training before you join us at Nepal (unless you’re a seasoned hiker, of course). Training to walk uphill is a good idea. You’ll have a porter who’ll carry your backpacks and other essentials. But since there isn’t any road access during the trek, you’ll have to finish the trek in its entirety once you start.
Delhi: What should I pack for this trip? You’ll be travelling through many types of weather. So, don’t forget some essentials like a daypack and rucksack, plenty of t-shirts and trousers, comfortable hiking boots, jogging suits, and a good cap (or hat in the summer).A warm jacket, some insect repellent, sun protection, woollen items, a good torch with batteries are essential too. And also don’t forget to get a sleeping bag with inner liners for all those days you’ll spend camping in the Himalayas!
Included Experience
Delhi: Here’s your chance to tick the Raj Ghat, Sikh Temple and a rickshaw ride off your to-do list. All in one day.
Varanasi: Feel the love for your new Contiki fam and count your blessings, as you watch a Hindu spiritual ceremony from the River Ganges.
Varanasi: Time to take to the sky. Varanasi, here we come!
Varanasi: Explore this spiritual hotspot: said to be where Buddha delivered his first sermon. A pilgrimage for Buddhists across the globe.
Varanasi: A near-spiritual experience. Watch the skies glow in a rainbow of colours as you sail down the river and watch the city wake up.
Lucknow: For epic architecture and mythical bazaars, don’t miss the technicolour sights of this city. Includes the Great Imambara and La Martiniere.
Agra: This majestic building is one of India’s star attractions. And it feels like you’ve stepped onto a Bollywood film set.
Agra: This one needs no introduction. Epic in the pictures. Out-of-this-world IRL.
Delhi: Time to take to the sky. Nepal, here we come!
Chitwan National Park: Climb into your Jeep and buckle up for an action-packed day. Look out for one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants and peacocks.
Kathmandu: Explore this jam-packed, rainbow-coloured melting pot of a city, with its mythical views of the Himalayas. Patan Durbar Square is a must-see.
Make Travel Matter®
Lucknow: This non-profit organisation works to rehabilitate survivors of acid attacks – providing employment opportunities and generally raising awareness of the issue. Your heart may ache, but you’ll come away feeling a sense of hope and admiration for the survivors too. You’ll also have your chance to support the organisation by buying drinks and snacks onsite.
Agra: There’s nothing quite like having an elephant as your new BFF. Hang out with the gentle giants at this sanctuary.
16 Breakfast (B)
6 Dinner (D)
4 Lunch (L)
FAQs
Delhi: What Visa do I need for India & Nepal? Most travellers (everyone other than citizens of Nepal & Bhutan) need to get a 30-day e-visa when travelling to India. You can apply through the Government of India’s official website. Check out our visa guide for more info.Don’t forget - you’ll need this Ground Handler information when you apply for the e-visa: Travel Scope India Office No. 215, Qutab Plaza, Ashoka Crescent Marg, DLF Phase 1, Sector 26, Gurugram, Haryana 122002, India Phone: +91 124 499 9499For Nepal, everyone other than citizens of India need a visa. You can either get one on arrival. Or in some cases, you can get an e-visa (they tend to be temperamental though!). If you're applying on arrival, please bring passport photos and USD with you!
Delhi: What are the luggage restrictions for India? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29”x 20”x 10”), with a max weight of 15kg (33lbs). Plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights. It might be a lower-than-normal weight allowance. But that’s the luggage limit for domestic flights. So remember to save some space for all that shopping!Got some overweight baggage? Don’t worry. You might be able to pay in cash for the extra weight. But you won’t be able to upgrade the luggage allowance before the start of the trip.
Delhi: How do I make my way from Delhi Airport to the starting point? It’s simpler than you think! Once you exit the airport, look for the ‘Pre-Paid Taxi’ stall (with a yellow-sign). These taxis are run by the Delhi Police, and are very reliable. All you need to do is approach the counter and tell them you wanna go to ‘Green Park’ (that’s where our hotel is located, close to the metro station).
Delhi: What currency do I need to visit India? The currency used in India is the Indian Rupee (₹). Don’t forget to keep some cash in hand. But in case you forget, you’ll find ATMs readily accessible in cities.
Kathmandu: Is there a Trip Manager on the trips to Nepal? If you’re on the Delhi to Kathmandu Quest trip, you’ll have a Trip Manager with you.For Nepal Trek & Temples and Nepal Trek Challenge there isn’t a Contiki Trip Manager because these treks are conducted by our trusted third party operator. But don’t worry, you’ll still have an experienced local guide with you.
Kathmandu: How fit do travellers need to be to book the treks? Nepal Trek and Temples You don’t have to do any strenuous training for these treks. But they definitely involve walking 3-6 hours a day on an average. You’ll have a porter who’ll carry your backpacks and other essentials. But since there isn’t any road access during the trek, you’ll have to finish the trek in its entirety once you start. Nepal Trek Challenge We recommend that you consider some additional training before you join us at Nepal (unless you’re a seasoned hiker, of course). Training to walk uphill is a good idea. You’ll have a porter who’ll carry your backpacks and other essentials. But since there isn’t any road access during the trek, you’ll have to finish the trek in its entirety once you start.
Delhi: What should I pack for this trip? You’ll be travelling through many types of weather. So, don’t forget some essentials like a daypack and rucksack, plenty of t-shirts and trousers, comfortable hiking boots, jogging suits, and a good cap (or hat in the summer).A warm jacket, some insect repellent, sun protection, woollen items, a good torch with batteries are essential too. And also don’t forget to get a sleeping bag with inner liners for all those days you’ll spend camping in the Himalayas!
Included Experience
Delhi: Here’s your chance to tick the Raj Ghat, Sikh Temple and a rickshaw ride off your to-do list. All in one day.
Varanasi: Feel the love for your new Contiki fam and count your blessings, as you watch a Hindu spiritual ceremony from the River Ganges.
Varanasi: Time to take to the sky. Varanasi, here we come!
Varanasi: Explore this spiritual hotspot: said to be where Buddha delivered his first sermon. A pilgrimage for Buddhists across the globe.
Varanasi: A near-spiritual experience. Watch the skies glow in a rainbow of colours as you sail down the river and watch the city wake up.
Lucknow: For epic architecture and mythical bazaars, don’t miss the technicolour sights of this city. Includes the Great Imambara and La Martiniere.
Agra: This majestic building is one of India’s star attractions. And it feels like you’ve stepped onto a Bollywood film set.
Agra: This one needs no introduction. Epic in the pictures. Out-of-this-world IRL.
Delhi: Time to take to the sky. Nepal, here we come!
Chitwan National Park: Climb into your Jeep and buckle up for an action-packed day. Look out for one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants and peacocks.
Kathmandu: Explore this jam-packed, rainbow-coloured melting pot of a city, with its mythical views of the Himalayas. Patan Durbar Square is a must-see.
Make Travel Matter®
Lucknow: This non-profit organisation works to rehabilitate survivors of acid attacks – providing employment opportunities and generally raising awareness of the issue. Your heart may ache, but you’ll come away feeling a sense of hope and admiration for the survivors too. You’ll also have your chance to support the organisation by buying drinks and snacks onsite.
Agra: There’s nothing quite like having an elephant as your new BFF. Hang out with the gentle giants at this sanctuary.
ITINERARY
ITINERARYArrive Delhi
Welcome to the intoxicating cacophony of colours, smells, spices, culture and chaos that is Delhi. We'll bond with our Contiki fam today before kick-starting our adventure.
Delhi
Today we’ll explore one of the world’s most hustling, bustling cities (home to a cool 25m people!) With a local guide, we’ll discover Old Delhi & other top sights. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours to explore Delhi your way. Dinner tonight is a DIY vibe, tasting the best of Delhi with your new crew.
Delhi to Varanasi
Today we'll leave the magical mayhem of Delhi behind and catch a flight to Varanasi... Nestled alongside the Ganges is Varanasi, one of the holiest Hindu sites in the world - a place where pilgrims come to bathe in the sacred waters and cremate their loved ones. This place can be described as India in a nutshell - not for the faint of heart, but spiritual, riotous and touchingly passionate.
Varanasi via the River Ganges
Rise and shine! We're headed down to the river, boarding a small boat as dawn alights the Ganges. We'll watch the Ghat in front of us slowly come to life, as pilgrims bathe in the holy river, wash away their sins and fill bottles with holy water (we wouldn't recommend doing the same - it may be holy but that doesn't mean it's hygienic). After watching the sunrise from our boat, we'll weave our way through the narrow lanes, and get to see how life operates on the riverside. As the afternoon draws in, we'll explore the ruins of Sarnath, another holy location for another ancient religion. Located on the outskirts of the city, this is said to be the location from which Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Finish off an epic day by getting lost (on purpose) in the spidery lanes of the old city where our local guide will show Varanasi's hidden gems.
Varanasi to Lucknow
Today we can officially tick Varanasi off our lists. Next, we’ll make our way to a true historical hotspot – Lucknow, here we come. Lucknow is famous for its Awadhi cuisine, so we recommend taking a culinary walk of the city, hopping in and out of roadside eateries and getting a complete taste of the local culture.
Lucknow
Long regarded as India's centre for culture and art, Lucknow is full of wonders for us to explore this morning. We won't waste any time, as we start off with a locally guided sightseeing tour, coming up close to La Martiniere building - a beautiful and historic private school - and the Asafi Imambara, one of the most regal architectural complexes in the world. Taking almost a decade to build, the building famously employed locals in the region while a ravaging famine swept India. We'll have a free evening to admire Lucknow's ethereal bazaars, opulent Raj-era architecture and delicious food. Whether you decide to walk its broad boulevards or beautiful gardens, you'll wonder how this place has escaped the overwhelming tourist attention of some other Indian towns.
Lucknow to Agra
See ya, Lucknow, we're headed to one of the world's oldest cities. Today you'll have the opportunity to get your bucket list ticked with a visit to one of mankind's masterpieces: the majestic Taj Mahal (you'll also get the chance to visit the 17th century Agra Fort). The Taj Mahal, the 17th century memorial building considered by many to be the most beautiful building in the world, naturally dominates Agra, but it isn't the only thing to be found here. The city, curving along the holy Yamuna River, is dotted with mausoleums, tombs and heaving marketplaces.
Agra to Kathmandu via Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation & Care Centre and Delhi
Jumping on our air-conditioned coach we'll head to our next stop... We'll visit the Wildlife SOS Elephant Rescue Centre, where we'll meet over 20 rescued elephants and witness the only elephant hospital in Asia. Wasting no time this afternoon, we're getting a speedy flight to Kathmandu, Nepal... We've arrived into Kathmandu!
Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park
Time to rise and shine. Today we're waking up in Kathmandu! A world heritage reserve teeming with rhinos, deer, monkeys, elephants, sloth bears, and even the majestic Bengal Tiger.
Chitwan National Park
One of the remaining undisturbed areas of the Terai region, this rich ecosystem is wedged between two river valleys on the outer Himalayas, which provide a beautiful backdrop to the steep cliffs and lush plantlands. This morning we'll take a jungle walk to soak in the spectacular beauty, before heading out on our once-in-a-lifetime jeep safari. One of the last safe havens for the one-horned rhino and the Bengal tiger - both heavily endangered - Chitwan offers one of the best wildlife spotting experiences on the planet.
Chitwan National Park to Kathmandu
Today we're headed back to Nepal's bustling capital. It's time to uncover Kathmandu on a locally guided tour of its UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durbar Square - the old royal palace of the former kingdom, parts of which were tragically destroyed in the earthquake of 2015. As we walk, we'll marvel at the medieval temples, captivating courtyards and charming mayhem.
Kathmandu to Pokhara
It’s time to take our adventure to the next level! We'll kick off the morning by making our way to the homebase of this epic trek. This beautiful lakeside settlement is framed by the spectacular Himalayas. We'll check into our hotel tonight ready for our first day of trekking tomorrow.
Pokhara to Dhampus via Phedi
After an included breakfast this morning - and we'll need all the fuel we can get -we'll drive our van up to Phedi. We'll start our trek from Phedi, where steep stone staircases snake their way up the rhododendron hillsides. We'll start our steep ascent, reaching lower Dhampus in 1 to 2 hours. Gently climbing up again past the terraced fields and small houses and rhododendrons, we'll reach our lodge, admiring the spectacular Annapurna Range and Machhapuchhre (fishtail) in the distance. After an included dinner we'll turn in for the night.
Dhampus to Australian Camp
Sip your tea this morning with your breakfast as you watch the sun illuminate the mountains ahead. A short trek today brings us to our lunch stop, after which we'll climb up through the beautiful oak forests, reaching Pothana. We'll stop here for a brief recharge before we climb the stone staircases up towards the Australian Camp. Enjoy another magical sunset as it alights the Himalayas this evening.
Australian Camp to Sarangkot
After breakfast in Australian Camp this morning we'll resume our hike through the dense forests, on a slight descent towards Naudanda (Nine hill). After a stop for lunch we'll continue the hike to Sarangkot. The trail here is fairly relaxed, as we ease along a ridge to a dense settlement with lots of mixed indigenous groups. Sarangkot offers spectacular mountain scenery of Mt. Dhaulagri, Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Nilgiri and more. As the night draws in, you can see lights illuminating the beautiful Pokhara Valley below. We've seen plenty of spectacular views, but this might just be the best so far.
Sarangkot to Pokhara
After breakfast this morning we'll make our way to the legendary viewpoint at Sarangkot. Through terraced farms and villages we'll finally reach the summit, offering spectacular Himalayan panoramas that are simply unforgettable. This is what we came for, and it makes the hard work so worth it. After posing for some photos we'll make the hike back to Pokhara. Upon arrival we'll have a free afternoon to chill by the lake and try the local foodie delights.
Pokhara to Kathmandu
After a heavenly sleep and breakfast we'll make our way back to Kathmandu this morning. Our trip finishes back where we started. But those mountains, forests and streams will stick with us forever.
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.
