Itinerary
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Day 1
Beijing Beijing is China's foremost city and capital for twenty four successive emperors. Some of the major sights include: Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall and Summer Palace. The complete range of Chinese cuisine can be found in the capital, and evening entertainment is superb. Take an airport transfer by private car with an English-speaking guide. Hilton Beijing Airport is situated just 1 minute by shuttle bus from the airport and the Beijing Airport Rail Link, the Hilton Beijing Capital Airport hotel is within 40 minutes of major tourist attractions including the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. The hotel features some of the largest hotel rooms in Beijing, all offering sound-proofed floor-to-ceiling windows and high speed internet access Overnight at Hilton Beijing Airport. |
 Beijing |
 Hilton Beijing Airport |
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Day 2
Lhasa Lhasa is a fascinating city and a renowned center of Buddhism. Attractions include the Potala Palace was originally built by King Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century, rebuilt by the Fifth Dalai Lama in 1645, and became the seat of Dalai Lamas and political center of Tibet. It is a steep climb to the palace which is spectacularly sited overlooking the city. Jokhang is located in central Lhasa and is the ultimate pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Pilgrims. In Tibetan, "Norbu Linka" means beautiful gardens. This garden covers an area of 36 hectares and it is the annual vacation home for the 7th to the 14th Dalai Lama, who would move here during the summer from the Potala Palace. Drepung Monastery is situated at the foot of the Mountain Gambo Utse, this huge complex is the most important monastery of the Gelugpa sect in Tibetan Buddhism. Sera Monastery is at the foot of Tatipu Hill is located in the northern suburb of Lhasa City and was built in 1419 during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Take an airport transfer by private car with an English-speaking guide. Direct flight from Beijing to Lhasa. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Named after Lhasa's Kyichu River "river of happiness" the Kyichu Hotel is a a smaller and more value focused hotel that makes up for it's humble infrastructure with a level of service and food that consistently make it one of Lhasa's top rated hotels. The Kyichu Hotel is located in Lhasa a short walk to both the Jokhang Temple in Barkhor Square and the Potala Palace.
Overnight at Kyichu Hotel. |
 Lhasa |
 Kyichu Hotel Lhasa |
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Day 3
Lhasa Full day private guided tour of Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Bhakor Street with deluxe lunch. Originally built by King Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century, Potala Palace was rebuilt by the Fifth Dalai Lama in 1645, and became the seat of Dalai Lamas and political center of Tibet. Jokhang Temple is located in central Lhasa and is the ultimate pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Pilgrims. Barkhor is the oldest road in Lhasa which pilgrims tramped out around Jokhang Temple through centuries. Buddhist pilgrims walk or progress by body-lengths along the street clockwise every day into deep night. The circular road is also a marketplace for printed scriptures, cloth prayer flags and religious items. Overnight at Kyichu Hotel. |
 Potala Palace |
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Day 4
Lhasa Full day private guided tour of Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery with deluxe lunch. The Drepung Monastery is the most important monastery of the Gelugpa sect in Tibetan Buddhism. Seen from afar, its grand, white construction gives the monastery the appearance of a heap of rice, so it was given the name 'Drepung' which in Tibetan means Collecting-Rice. The Sera Monastery at the foot of Tatipu Hill is located in the northern suburb of Lhasa City and was built in 1419 during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The hill behind it was covered with wild roses in bloom when the monastery was built, so it was named Sera which means "wild rose" in Tibetan. Overnight at Kyichu Hotel. |
 Drepung Monastery |
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Day 5
Kathmandu Kathmandu is the capital and the largest city of Nepal. The city is situated in Kathmandu Valley. The "old" city is noted for its many Buddhist and Hindu temples and palaces, most dating to the 17th century. Seven different monument zones are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The centers of the three primary cities, Kathmandu Hanuman Dhoka, Patan and Bhaktapur, the two most important Buddhist stupas, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath and two famous Hindu shrines, Pashupatinath temple and Changu Narayan. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Fly tpday from Lhasa to Kathmandu. Approximate flight time 2 hrs. Sit back and relax for this airport transfer in a private vehicle with driver. Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and stands at an elevation of approximately 1,350 meters. The city's rich history is nearly 2000 years old, as inferred from an inscription in the valley, its religious affiliations are dominantly Hindu followed by Buddhism. Kathmandu's Durbar Square is home to palaces, temples and courtyards. The word “durbar” means “palace” and Nepal’s kings used to live here and rule from the Hanuman Dhoka Palace until the construction of the Nararayanhiti Royal Palace. This important historical attraction has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The National Museum of Nepal, located on the way to Swayambhunath Hill was established in 1928 AD as an arsenal museum in the historical building which was constructed in early 19th century by General Bhimsen Thapa. It has become a popular attraction to locals wanting to relive their history, and to visitors who are interested in Nepals’ past. People who have interest on historical, cultural and religious aspects can look forward to the doll collection, second century BC coins, stuffed animals and relics from the devastating 1934 earthquake. The impressive, and stunning traditional facade of the Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is set amongst some pleasant gardens, in the old interesting district of Bodhnath. It is within a 10 minutes walk from Kathmandu’s famous Boudhanath Stupa and various souvenir shops and restaurants. The airport is an approximate 10 minutes drive away, while the city centre and Thamel is a 10 km drive away. The hotel provides a free shuttle bus service to the city centre, shopping and tourist areas of Bhatbhateni, Durbar Marg, Thamel and Kantipath. The Hyatt Regency Kathmandu has a good variety of recreational facilities such an outdoor pool, tennis courts, fitness centre and a top class spa. The spacious, wooden floored guestrooms are well appointed with wooden furniture and traditional Tibetan handmade carpets. Overnight at Hyatt Regency. |
 Kathmandu Stupa |
 Durbar Square |
 Hyatt Regency Kathmandu |
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Day 6
Kathmandu This Mount Everest Scenic flight provides the best way to catch a birds-eye view of the picturesque Everest region. The highly trained and experienced pilot takes the plane a mere 200 meters away from the mountain peaks, bringing the top of the world to the lens of your camera. This flight is a once in a life time experience, and will provide memories you will never forget. This panoramic flight takes approximately one hour to complete. Bhaktapur is world renowned for its elegant art, fabulous culture and indigenous lifestyle. The ancient city is 14 km from Kathmandu and is also variously known as the "City of Culture", the "Living Heritage" and "Nepal’s Cultural Gem". Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square is the gem not only of Bhaktapur, but also of the entire nation. The most fascinating structure here are the world-renowned 55 Window Palace, Golden Gate, Big Bell, Siddhi Laxmi Temple, Shiva Temple. Pashupatinath literally means ‘the god of all animals’ and is one of the Avatars of Lord Shiva. Pashupatinath is not only the holiest Hindu pilgrimage in Nepal but also one of the holiest destinations in the entire world. Situated 5 km east of Kathmandu on the banks of sacred Bagmati River, lies the temple of Lord Shiva Pashupati Nath, with its two tiered golden roof and silver doors. The stupa of Budhanath lies 8 KM east of Kathmandu. On this colossal and ancient stupa, one of the biggest in the world, are the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. It is built on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels. Overnight at Hyatt Regency. |
 Mt. Everest |
 Pashupatinath |
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Day 7
Kathmandu Patan is located about 5 km south of Kathmandu, on the southern side of the Bagmati River and is one of 3 royal cities in the valley. Patan is a center of Buddhist and Hindu culture. The city is full of religious art, temples, and monasteries. Patan also boasts a Durbar Square full of temples. One remarkable monument here is a 17th century temple dedicated to the Hindu God Krishna – Krishna Mandir built entirely of stone with rare stone carvings on its walls depicting the epic wars from Ramayana and Mahabharata. 14 kms south of Kathmandu lies the Royal Botanical Gardens at Godavari. With its rushing streams and shady meadows it is a popular picnic spot. It also has a notable collection of orchids, cactus & ferns. A quiet path leads to the Godavari Kunda, a spring where the sacred water of the Godavari River pours from the mountains. Overnight at Hyatt Regency. |
 Patan - Buddhist Prayer Wheel |
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Day 8
Delhi Delhi is a city of dramatic contrasts, and is the most popular starting point for any tour of India. A tour to Old Delhi includes the Red Fort and the mosque of Jama Masjid with a stroll through the bazaars of Chandni Chowk ("Moonlit Square"). A New Delhi travel includes the Humayun's Tomb, in many ways the precursor of the Taj Mahal, the India Gate, a memorial dedicated to the unknown soldiers who laid their lives in the World War I, the President's House, and the Parliament House. Sit back and relax for this airport transfer in a private vehicle with driver. Enjoy your flight from Kathmandu to Delhi today. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant. Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India. This private guided tour of New Delhi boast spectacular monuments and holy sites. The city of New Delhi was designed in the typically British colonial style, with tree-lined avenues and colonial bungalows. Whilst on this tour you will see the Laxminarayan Temple, a modern Hindu temple, and Gate of India which is a 42 m high War Memorial Arch. On route you will drive past the Parliament House, the Secretariat buildings and the Vice Regal Palace, which is now the official residence of the President of India. The Claridges is a centrally located, elegant property close to the Rashtrapati Bhawan and the city's business and shopping districts. The hotel is situated near the New Delhi Train Station, domestic airport and the international airport. The hotel offers 162 comfortable and spacious guestrooms that are complete with a range of modern amenities. Dine in elegance at any of the onsite restaurants, serving a variety of delicious dishes. The bar provides the ideal setting for you to relax with a refreshing cocktail. Leisure facilities include a health club, swimming pool, tennis court and shopping arcade. Overnight at The Claridges (City Center). |
 Qutab Minar, Delhi |
 India Gate |
 The Claridges |
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Day 9
Jaipur Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and known as the Pink City for its reddish stucco on the massive Rajput forts. The Amber Palace complex overlooking the artificial lake south of the town is one of the most popular tourist sites. Bustling markets offer great shopping. Private guided tour of Old Delhi. The Red Fort was the palace for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's new capital, Shahjahanabad, when he moved his capital from Agra to bring prestige to his reign. Its wall is 1.5 miles long, and varies in height from 60-110 ft. At 72.5 meters, the Qutab Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Surrounding the building are many fine examples of Indian artwork dating back to 1193. Humayun's tomb is a complex of buildings of Mughal architecture dating to the Slave Dynasty (1268-1287 AD). The complex is a World Heritage Site and the first example of this type of Mughal architecture in India. This style of mausoleum is similar to the Taj Mahal in Agra. Meet your driver for a private transfer to Jaipur. The Traditional Rajput architect, a mixture of Mughal and Indian, a facade with domes and frescoes. The House is a very fine example of Shekhawati frescoes and architecture. The family portraits, which add to the charm of this family hotel where tradition still runs strong. Like many historic houses, Shahpura House is a curious mixture of the old and the new. Overnight at Shahpura House (Heritage). |
 Jantar Mantar |
 Red Fort |
 Shahpura House |
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Day 10
Jaipur Private guided tour of the City Palace of Jaipur, an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthan and Mughal architecture, originally built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of the Kachhwaha clan of Rajputs. The vast palace complex occupies one seventh of the walled city of Jaipur. The Jantar Mantar is a collection of massive astronomical instruments, built of local stone and marble. Each instrument carries an astronomical scale marked on the marble inner lining, and bronze tablets were also employed. Adjoining the Palace is the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the Hawa Mahal overlooks one of the main streets and also provides some excellent views of the city. Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India. Overnight at Shahpura House (Heritage). |
 Amber Fort Interior Courtyard |
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Day 11
Agra Agra boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, and nearby Fatehpur Sikri. The Taj Mahal in all its timeless beauty is still the inspiration of poets and painters, writers and photographers. Agra Fort is a testament to the Mughal dynasties and their conqueror architecture. And the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri dazzles with its temples and palace yards. Enjoy this transfer to Agra in a private vehicle with driver. On the way, you will visit the ancient ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. This area was built during the second half of the 16th century by the Emperor Akbar, and was known as the "City of Victory", and the capital of the Mughal Empire for 10 years. The complex of monuments and temples boasts uniform architectural style, which includes one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid. The Clarks Shiraz Hotel is located in the heart of Agra and boasts spectacular views of the Taj Mahal. This beautiful property offers 237 well-appointed rooms that are elegantly furnished with an array of in-room amenities that ensures a comfortable and pleasant stay. Enjoy a wonderful dining experience at the onsite restaurant, serving delicious buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. Drop in at the cafe for some snacks and refreshing drinks, or just to relax after a tiring day. Take a bracing dip or relax on the sun bed beside the pool. Overnight at Clarks Shiraz. |
 Taj Mahal |
 Fatehpur Sikri |
 Hotel Clark Shiraz, Agra |
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Day 12
Agra Be amazed on this private guided tour of Taj Mahal, one of the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his dear wife and Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Also visit Agra Fort, built of red sandstone and marble. This great monument of red sandstone dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, 2km northwest of Taj Mahal was constructed by the Mughals during 1565-1571. Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India. A private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant will pick you up for a transfer to the train station. Enjoy your overnight train ride from Agra to Varanasi. Dep: 22:10. Arrives 8:15. Second class A/C sleeper. Overnight at Overnight Varanasi Train. |
 Agra Fort |
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Day 13
Varanasi Varanasi is set at the left bank of the mighty river Ganges, this immensely chaotic place of pilgrimage is known for its ritual burnings. A dawn boat ride down the river is a fascinating and unforgettable spectacle. The city is sacred to Hindus and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In many ways Varanasi epitomizes the very best and worst aspects of India, and it can be a little overwhelming. However, the scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganges at sunrise set against the back drop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world - definitely a must see destination on any trip to northern India. From Varanasi, a private vehicle with driver and English-speaking guide will take you on a private guided tour of Sarnath. This site is known as deer park, but more importantly is the location where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment. Sarnath is one of four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Amongst the ruins is Dharmekh Stupa, an impressive structure built to approximately 128 feet high, by 93 feet in diameter. This site dates back to around 200 BC and is where the Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon. Dhamekha Stupa was originally constructed by the Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, and has had several face-lifts and additions added in the 3rd and the 11th century BC. This evening Aarti Ceremony is an absolutely wonderful sight seen from the Ganges river. This tour includes a boat ride to experience the magic of the river during this spectacular event. The Taj Gateway hotel is set amidst 40 acres of lush green gardens, just 21 kms (45 mins drive) from the airport. The hotel is the veritable haven of peace and tranquility in this crowded, ancient temple city. The hotel is 6 kms away from the city centre or the commercial hub of Varanasi, also commonly known as The Chowk. The hotel is constructed in the holy Swastik shape (The Swastika is an ancient symbol which re-presents good fortune and blessing). Taj Gateway offers recently renovated & refurbished world-class contemporary rooms & suites with choice of views ranging from the lush green gardens or the swimming pool. The hotel has 130 rooms divided in four categories - Standard Rooms, Executive Rooms, Executive Suites and Deluxe Suites. Overnight at The Taj Gateway Ganges. |
 Varanasi |
 Dharmekh Stupa |
 The Taj Gateway |
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Day 14
Delhi Glide along the famous and holy Ganges waterway in a private boat accompanied by an expert guide. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi attract tourists and pilgrims of all ages for the opportunity to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one's sins. Pilgrims and tourists alike can be seen swimming and bathing immediately next to the funeral pyres of the riverside temples. This is a somewhat surreal experience and only for those with a strong constitution. Winding through the streets and popping out onto the riverside will give you an insider’s look at the symbiotic life of the riverside people of Varanasi. Eventually, as you tour through the city you will end up on Bengali Tola, the street of the Bengalis, where you will be visiting the hidden Mother Goddess Kali shrines, and the vistas of life along the riverside. The tour continues to the historic ritual bathing site called Dashaswamedh, or the ten-horse sacrifice Ghat, the perfect way to conclude this walking city tour. From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight. Enjoy your flight from Varanasi to Delhi today. The flight duration is approximately 90 minutes. Depart from Delhi international airport - end of itinerary. Overnight at Depart. |
 Boat Ride, Varanasi |
 Dashaswamedh Ghat |
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