The Best of Sicily
- Return flights
- 7 nights half-board in 4-star hotels
- 16 meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 7 dinners
8 days from
£1,599
was £1,799
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Incredible India & Nepal: Culture, Wildlife & Ancient Wonders
From £4,174
Duration 18 Days
Departures from: Feb 2026 - Oct 2026
From £4,174
Duration 18 Days
Departures from:
Feb 2026 - Oct 2026
Tour Overview
This 18-day journey weaves through India and Nepal's most significant landscapes and cultural treasures. Begin in Delhi's contrasting old and new quarters before witnessing the Taj Mahal at dawn. Experience spiritual Varanasi, where ancient rituals unfold along the sacred Ganges. In Nepal, explore Kathmandu's ornate temples and stupas before discovering Pokhara's mountain panoramas. In Chitwan National Park, look out for rhinoceros and tigers, and conclude at Nagarkot with breathtaking Himalayan views - a perfect finale to this adventure spanning bustling cities, sacred sites, and wilderness sanctuaries.
The Royal Geographical Society Collection
The Royal Geographical society have selected this tour as part of our joint collection as it immerses the modern day traveller into the cultural heritage of India and Nepal following in the footsteps of explorers and visiting landmarks shaped by history.
Your Holiday Includes
- Return flights from London
- 15 nights in 4 & 5-star hotels and lodges plus 2 nights in flight
- 33 meals: 15 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 15 dinners and welcome drink
- Travelsphere Holiday Director
- Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage
Included Holiday Highlights
- Delhi city tour
- Agra city tour and Agra Fort
- Sunrise at Taj Mahal
- Lucknow city tour
- Varanasi & Sarnath
- Aarti ceremony
- Kathmandu city tour and Patan
- Traditional Nepalese dinner and cultural show
- Visit Bouddhanath Stupa
- Hike to the local Gurung Village of Kalabung
- Cultural evening with the Tharu people
- Jeep safaris in Chitwan National Park
Itinerary
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Day 2 Delhi
On arrival in Delhi, we'll transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and make the most of the hotel’s facilities. Maybe take a dip in the swimming pool or sip a refreshing drink at the bar – the choice is yours. Later, join us for a welcome drink and dinner at the hotel, providing your first taste of authentic Indian cuisine. Meals included: D.jpg?format=webp)
Day 3 Delhi
Your day is filled with insightful experiences, starting with a short tour of Paharganj, in central Delhi. You’ll explore in the company of guides from the Salaam Baalak Trust, a charity supported by Travelsphere Cares that equips youngsters with a range of skills and helps them to better their lives. The guides, former street children now working with this charity, provide a perspective that reveals urban realities often hidden from tourists.Later, we’ll continue our sightseeing in Old Delhi. Explore the 17th-century walled city, where Mughal influences remain strong in the imposing Red Fort and the Jama Masjid Mosque before a rickshaw ride through the crowded streets and bustling markets provides insight into daily life. We’ll then step inside the poignant Gandhi Smriti Museum, located in the house where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life and the place of his assassination.
This afternoon, a sightseeing tour will introduce us to New Delhi, a spacious, imperial city created by the British in 1911. We'll drive through elegant boulevards to see the iconic India Gate and imposing Parliament House, both grand reminders of the city's colonial past. At Humayun's Tomb, note the Persian influences that would later shape the Taj Mahal. After day full of discoveries, we'll return to the hotel for dinner. Meals included: B,D
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Day 4 Delhi - Agra
Today we'll travel south to Agra by train. The UNESCO-listed Agra Fort reveals the sophistication of 16th-century Mughal military architecture. Beyond its defensive exterior lies a complex of palaces, audience halls, and mosques that served as the imperial residence. The fort also bears witness to family tragedy - Emperor Shah Jahan, who commissioned the Taj Mahal, spent his final years imprisoned here by his son Aurangzeb, able only to gaze at his masterpiece from a distance.This evening, there is the opportunity to watch a performance of “Mohabbat the Taj”. A cultural show that transports you to 17th century India and brings to life the love story of Emperor Shah Jahan, his wife and the history of the Taj Mahal through music and dance. Meals included: B,D
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Day 5 Agra
We have an early start this morning for what is sure to be a memorable highlight of the holiday – a dawn visit to the spectacular Taj Mahal. As the sun rises higher, witness how changing light transforms this masterpiece of white marble and semi-precious stones. Beyond its romantic symbolism, the monument represents the pinnacle of Indo-Islamic architecture, combining Persian, Turkish, and Indian elements.After returning to the hotel for breakfast, our sightseeing takes us to the Itmad ud Daulah tomb, known as “Baby Taj”. The monument is smaller but exquisitely detailed and pioneered the use of white marble that would go on to define Mughal architecture.
Our final stop of the day is Mehtab Bagh, this restored centuries-old garden complex sits on the other side of the Yamuna River and offers you the wonderful perspective of how the Taj Mahal was meant to be viewed with its riverside setting. Meals included: B,D
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Day 6 Agra - Lucknow
Today we'll travel to Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, known for its parks, gardens, monuments and fascinating bazaars. After checking in to our hotel, we'll take a tour of the city including The Residency - an invaluable testament to an essential chapter in India's journey towards independence, and Bara Imambara, an architectural wonder built in 1784 by Shia Muslims and is second largest imambara in the world.This evening, there is the option to join an evening food walk through the vibrant area of Hazratganj. As you enjoy the authentic local bites, the experience reveals Lucknow's contribution to North Indian cuisine. Meals included: B,D
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Day 7 Lucknow - Varanasi
Today's journey takes you to Varanasi. Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, Varanasi is colourful, chaotic and considered Hinduism's spiritual heart.To get the most out of your time here, you need to experience the city with an open mind. The maze-like old city, with over 80 ghats connects the urban core to the Ganges where Hindus bathe in the water. Meals included: B,D
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Day 8 Varanasi
Before dawn, we’ll sail along the Ganges and witness devout Hindus bathing and praying beneath the rising sun. We’ll return to the hotel for breakfast. This afternoon, we’ll visit the ruined city of Sarnath. This is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, as it was here that Buddha gave his first sermon.This evening we'll head out again to watch a traditional Aarti ceremony, considered a fundamental part of the Hindu faith. The choreographed ritual with fire, incense, conch shells, and bells honours the river goddess Ganga, believed to have descended from heaven to purify human souls. Meals included: B,D
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Day 9 Varanasi - Kathmandu
Today we'll fly to Kathmandu via Delhi. Nepal's capital sits in a valley that has been a cultural crossroads for centuries, where Hinduism and Buddhism evolved in close proximity. The Kathmandu Valley's position along trans-Himalayan trade routes saw a cultural blend originating from Tibet, India and China, and this is reflected in the distinctive pagoda-style temple architecture that later spread throughout Asia. Meals included: B,D.jpg?format=webp)
Day 10 Kathmandu
Today begins at incredible UNESCO-listed Boudhanath Stupa, one of Buddhism's most significant monuments outside Tibet. This is the centre of Tibetan culture in Kathmandu and is rich in Buddhist symbolism. Thought to have been built in the 14th century after the Mughal invasions, today it remains an important place of pilgrimage. The base of the stupa is made up of three large platforms which symbolise Earth, and here you can admire mountain views and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Be sure to gaze up to the square tower atop the building, which bears the Buddha eyes on all four sides representing all-seeing wisdom. We’ll then visit Kathmandu Darbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture, royal history, and vibrant atmosphere.After some time for lunch, we'll continue to Patan Durbar Square, a hub for cultural events, where you’ll discover ancient palaces and temples. Later you will be introduced to the unique singing bowls often used for sound healing and meditation. A maestro will explain how the bowls work, their historical significance, and their use for relaxation and healing.
This afternoon you’ll learn about the unique tradition of Paubha painting known for colourful depictions of deities before a seasoned artisan will lead a guided Lotus design painting session. Take home your finished painting as a meaningful souvenir from Nepal.
This evening, we’ll venture to a Nepalese restaurant to enjoy a cultural show which includes traditional food, music, dance, and hospitality. Meals included: B,D
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Day 11 Kathmandu - Pokhara
After breakfast, our journey continues to Pokhara, enroute, we’ll stop at a suspension bridge which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Here, you'll visit a Himalayan village to experience the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle.We’ll arrive in Pokhara and the evening is free for you to make your own discoveries, why not take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside? Meals included: B,D
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Day 12 Pokhara
This morning we’ll head to the local Gurung village of Kalabung for a hike through mixed terrain of up and downhill trails that are surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, terraced fields, forests, and traditional Gurung architecture. During the 3 hour hike, we’ll stop at a local tea shop where fruit, tea and coffee is available.This afternoon, we’ll visit the International Mountain Museum dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and ecology of mountains, focusing on the Himalayas with displays of mountaineering gear and equipment. Our next stop is the Gorkha Museum, dedicated to the history and legacy of the Gorkha region, particularly focusing on the Gorkha soldiers (known as Gurkhas) and their contributions to Nepalese and British military history. Meals included: B,D
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Day 13 Pokhara - Chitwan
Early this morning, we offer the opportunity to join our optional excursion to Sarangkot. Here we’ll watch the sun rise over the Annapurna ranges, a breathtaking experience, and perfect moment for photography, as the colours of the sky and the mountains change rapidly with the rising sun.We’ll return to the hotel for breakfast before we head to Chitwan where a free afternoon awaits. Later, enjoy an evening of traditional Tharu dance. The performance is known for its vibrant, energetic movements and rhythmic footwork, and it holds significant cultural and social value within Tharu communities. The dance is often performed during various celebrations, will be followed by dinner. Meals included: B,L,D
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Day 14 Chitwan
After breakfast, enjoy a jeep safari in the Chitwan National Park, which is one of the best ways to explore the rich biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage site in Nepal. Located in the Terai region, Chitwan National Park covers an area of over 900 square kilometres and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, wild elephants, and a variety of bird species.We’ll have lunch at the hotel before a canoe ride along calm waters offers a unique perspective on the park's biodiversity. Paddle at your own pace, taking in the beauty of the natural surroundings, whether it's the sight of trees lining the shore, wildlife nearby, or the vast sky above. We’ll stop on the bank of Naryani river to enjoy a sundowner before returning to the lodge for dinner. Meals included: B,L,D
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Day 15 Chitwan
Chitwan hosts over 500 species of bird, and this morning in the company of a naturalist, we’ll go birdwatching to try and spot some of the local avian inhabitants.After lunch we’ll take a second jeep safari in the Chitwan National Park to search for more of its diverse wildlife.
Later, drive to a Tharu village to experience the life of Tharu (local tribes) community. You can learn how they cook, tend to animals, and care for their families, providing a deeper understanding of their culture and way of life. Meals included: B,L,D
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Day 16 Chitwan - Nagarkot
Today we’ll travel to Nagarkot, a hill station northeast of Kathmandu Valley that historically served as a retreat for Nepali royalty. At 2,175 meters, it offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range from Dhaulagiri in the west to Kanchenjunga in the east. Enjoy the spectacular vista over a sundowner cocktail this evening. Meals included: B,D.jpg?format=webp)
Day 17 Nagarkot - UK
Relax this morning or take the time to enjoy your final sunrise over the Himalayas before we'll transfer to Kathmandu for the return flight back to the UK. Meals included: B.jpg?format=webp)
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Additional Information
Please note: To experience the best of India and Nepal, our itineraries are very full with some early starts and long days, but they are also extremely rewarding.-
Discover Nepal Geographical History
Dive into a collection of stories and artifacts that bring to life Nepal’s rich historical tapestry.
Accommodation (as specified or similar)
Eros Hotel
The Eros Hotel New Delhi is a distinguished accommodation which blends a contemporary design with a classic traditional Delhi hotel. Situated in the bustling commercial centre of Nehru Place, overlooking the iconic Lotus Temple, this 5-star gem emerges as one of the premier hotels in Delhi and is only a 5 minute walk from the nearest Metro station. Hotel features include an outdoor swimming pool with fitness centre, restaurant, tea lounge, bar, lounge and café. Each room has wooden floors, air conditioning, TV, safe. minibar, tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer.
The Eros Hotel New Delhi is a distinguished accommodation which blends a contemporary design with a classic traditional Delhi hotel. Situated in the bustling commercial centre of Nehru Place, overlooking the iconic Lotus Temple, this 5-star gem emerges as one of the premier hotels in Delhi and is only a 5 minute walk from the nearest Metro station. Hotel features include an outdoor swimming pool with fitness centre, restaurant, tea lounge, bar, lounge and café. Each room has wooden floors, air conditioning, TV, safe. minibar, tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer.
Grand Mercure
The Grand Mercure Agra is inspired by the city's rich history. Hotel rooms feature air-conditioning, flat-screen TV and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel amenities include a rooftop pool, a restaurant and a bar.
The Grand Mercure Agra is inspired by the city's rich history. Hotel rooms feature air-conditioning, flat-screen TV and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel amenities include a rooftop pool, a restaurant and a bar.
Fortune Park BBD
Located in the heart of Lucknow, the Fortune Hotel is a modern and comfortable hotel. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, bar and restaurant.
Located in the heart of Lucknow, the Fortune Hotel is a modern and comfortable hotel. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, bar and restaurant.
Radisson Hotel Varanasi
The Radisson Varanasi is situated in what is considered the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi, and located just 4km from the spiritual river Ganges. Hotel facilities include 4 restaurants, a currency exchange and gift shop. Room facilities include large TV’s, a digital safe and free of charge Wi-Fi.
The Radisson Varanasi is situated in what is considered the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi, and located just 4km from the spiritual river Ganges. Hotel facilities include 4 restaurants, a currency exchange and gift shop. Room facilities include large TV’s, a digital safe and free of charge Wi-Fi.
Hilton Kathmandu
Right in the heart of the Nepalese capital city, The Hilton Kathmandu is a great location for many sites this city has to offer. Their restaurant offers both mountain and city views, or take in an even more breathtaking angle from the hotel's rooftop bar and pool. Other facilities include a spa and fitness centre, as well as free Wi-Fi. Guest rooms feature a hairdryer, ironing facilities, mini bar, air conditioning, HD TV and a coffee maker.
Right in the heart of the Nepalese capital city, The Hilton Kathmandu is a great location for many sites this city has to offer. Their restaurant offers both mountain and city views, or take in an even more breathtaking angle from the hotel's rooftop bar and pool. Other facilities include a spa and fitness centre, as well as free Wi-Fi. Guest rooms feature a hairdryer, ironing facilities, mini bar, air conditioning, HD TV and a coffee maker.
Temple Tree Resort & Spa
The Temple Tree Resort & Spa is ideally located near the banks of Phewa Lake, offering a view of the lake as well as the Himalayas. The accommodation has a tranquil setting and features a wellness centre with treatments and a pool, as well as a restaurant and two bars. Wi-Fi is available on site and each room has air conditioning, TV, safe, hairdryer, minibar and coffee maker.
The Temple Tree Resort & Spa is ideally located near the banks of Phewa Lake, offering a view of the lake as well as the Himalayas. The accommodation has a tranquil setting and features a wellness centre with treatments and a pool, as well as a restaurant and two bars. Wi-Fi is available on site and each room has air conditioning, TV, safe, hairdryer, minibar and coffee maker.
Sanctuary Resort
The Sanctuary Resort is located on the western edge of Chitwan National Park, Nepal's first national park. Nestled on the banks of the Narayani River, this hotel is designed in the local 'Thaur' style and offers a perfect escape to the wilderness where you can take advantage of the facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, spa & health club, restaurant and bar. Each room has a bath and separate shower, Wi-Fi, hairdryer, safe, fridge, air conditioning, iron and tea & coffee-making facilities.
The Sanctuary Resort is located on the western edge of Chitwan National Park, Nepal's first national park. Nestled on the banks of the Narayani River, this hotel is designed in the local 'Thaur' style and offers a perfect escape to the wilderness where you can take advantage of the facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, spa & health club, restaurant and bar. Each room has a bath and separate shower, Wi-Fi, hairdryer, safe, fridge, air conditioning, iron and tea & coffee-making facilities.
Club Himalaya
Club Himalaya in Nagarkot sits on top of the Windy Hill, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. The accommodation is a blend of traditional Nepalese beauty with modern facilities, including a spa, indoor pool and jacuzzi, complimentary Wi-Fi, multicuisine restaurant and a terrace & viewing platform to take in both sunrise and sunset. Each room has air conditioning, hairdryer, TV, safe, iron and tea & coffee-making facilities.
Club Himalaya in Nagarkot sits on top of the Windy Hill, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. The accommodation is a blend of traditional Nepalese beauty with modern facilities, including a spa, indoor pool and jacuzzi, complimentary Wi-Fi, multicuisine restaurant and a terrace & viewing platform to take in both sunrise and sunset. Each room has air conditioning, hairdryer, TV, safe, iron and tea & coffee-making facilities.
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Travelsphere Cares
We're proud to support the Salaam Baalak Trust, which does incredible work with former street children in Delhi.
Further Information
- Deposit information
-
When you book a holiday, you will be asked to pay a deposit, this will be made clear at the time of booking. In most cases we will charge the following deposit amount;
- European Holidays - £200 per person
- Worldwide Holidays - £400 per person
- Ocean & River Cruises - £400 per person
On some holidays we may charge a slightly higher deposit, to cover any costs we have to pay immediately to secure your booking with our suppliers. This will be made clear at the time of booking.
If you choose a tour that is within 84 days of departure you will need to pay the full balance when you book.
- Our cancellation policy
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If you decide to cancel your confirmed booking you must notify us (or your travel agent) in writing, as soon as possible. Since we incur costs in cancelling your arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below.
- More than 75 days before departure - Loss of deposit only
- 43 - 74 days - 50% of tour price
- 29 - 42 days - 75% of tour price
- 15 - 28 days - 90% of tour price
- Day of Departure - 14 days - 100% of tour price
Our full cancellation policy can be found in our booking terms and conditions, section 8.
- How do I find out Entry and Health Requirements for my holiday?
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We have partnered with Sherpa, an on-line self service tool that allows you to search up-to-date information regarding travel entry requirements for all countries and also allows you to apply for eVisas or eTAs via their on-line portal. Just click on this link to find out more – Travel Requirements & Visa Service
You can also refer to the Foreign Travel Advice section on the gov.uk website: Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Click on your destination and then click on 'Entry Requirements'. For Health Requirements, the Department of Health also offers travellers health advice on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, click on country information to locate your destination.
It is important to remember that passport, visa and health requirements can change before departure; therefore, we recommend you regularly familiarise yourself with the latest requirements before you travel. If you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements, we are unable to accept any responsibility.
For some destinations, it is not always discernable that a visa is required for entry at the border. For example, for some customers, to travel to the United States, an ESTA may be required. For Canada, an ETA and to India, an e-visa may be needed. Please do check your requirements to avoid any unnecessary cost and delays.
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Prices shown are based on twin occupancy of a double or twin bedded room with private facilities unless otherwise stated. Single occupancy supplements will apply. Travelsphere have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the hotel images provided on this website and images of room types displayed may vary to those offered on your tour. Therefore due to the possibility of inadvertent errors we do not guarantee their accuracy. Accommodation, airlines used and flight times are subject to change and will be confirmed in your final documents.
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All Travelsphere holidays are financially protected via ATOL (flight-inclusive holidays) and financial insurance (non-flight packages). Additionally, all customer money is held in a Trust Fund, governed by independent Trustees. This means your money is 100% protected no matter what.