India
5 Star Luxury with Kathmandu, Nepal & Mt. Everest 19 day tour - October 28, 2024Information
Why this year is the best year to explore India
We build our India tours around the rare opportunity to visit the best part of the Pushkar Festival that only happens during 5 days each year. The timing of the festival for 2024 has allowed us to design our tour with advantages we have not had in the past. Here is why you should pick 2024 as the year to take our tour to India:
- The purchase power of the dollar this year compared to past years: In the past for every dollar we traded for Indian Rupees (India’s money), we received somewhere between 42 to 50 Rupees. This year for every dollar we are able to get 82 Rupees per dollar. This is the best exchange rate we have ever seen. We are purchasing the Indian Rupees now and putting them in the bank to insure the huge savings for our 2024 group. No one knows when the number of Rupees per dollar will go back into the 40’s per dollar.
- We have tried for years to be able to get into the Umaid Bhawan Palace. It is the home of the Jodhpur Royal Family and currently the world’s sixth-largest private residence in the world. For 2024, we have been able to arrange that our group will stay in this fairy tale palace for 2 nights. A highlight of highlights!
- The Samode Palace: Normally you have to arrange 2 years in advance to stay in this special palace. The owners know the Prince that owns the palace and he has decided to let us have the whole palace for our groups stay.
- When you take into consideration the other Maharaja’s palaces we stay in, there has never been a time that our groups have had this much luxury – especially at the price we are able to offer those going in 2024!
The quality of hotels in India can make or break your tour. Most 3, 4 and even some 5-star hotels are not up to US standards. Almost all of our luxury hotels are their own gated community with large private areas, pools and manicured gardens AND most important – they have the highest quality of food that is needed when you are traveling in a 3rd world country. Our hotels, for the most part beat 5-star US standards. Taj is one of the top hotel brands in the world, exceeding Hilton, Marriott and others. Many of our hotels in India are in Taj hotels. Your tour includes real 5-star opulent luxury palaces (built by Maharajas), along with 5-star luxurious hotels! Here is a partial list of hotels we expect to use on your tour: the 5-star Taj Palace, Hotel Deli (found on lists of top hotels in the world) – The 5-star Marriott Hotel Kathmandu – The 5-star Taj Ganges in Varanasi (with 42 acres of gardens) – the 5-star Jaypee Palace Agra in its own vast expanse of greenery and gardens.
The 5-star Taj Mahal Palace in Jaipur, with over 17 acres of manicured gardens and pools – The Umaid Bhawan Palace the residence of royalty with 26 acres of private gardens and pools – 5-star Pushkara Resort and Spa with its 9 acres of private property – the 475 year old 5-star Samode Palace, grounds cover the canyon it is in, plus the surrounding hills.
Pushkar Festival: National Geographic created a list of the ten places you should see before you die. Pushkar Festival was on that list. As part of your tour, you will have the rare opportunity to experience the famous Pushkar Festival. The Pushkar Festival is considered the oldest festival in the world. It has been held annually for over 1,000 years. An astonishing 50,000 camels along with cattle and horses are brought to Pushkar each year to barter and sell. It’s a fascinating and spectacular sight that will rank at the top of your list of travel experiences. Less than 2% of the visitors to India get the opportunity to attend a Pushkar Festival. There are only a few 5-star hotels and a few 1 to 2-star small hotels at Pushkar, so most of the visitors have to stay in tents during their visit to the festival. With our connections in India, we have been given one of the 5-star luxury hotels for our group to stay in.
A FEW of the Fantastic Highlights you’re going to experience!
India will amaze you, everyone we take to India, comes away stating “it was their best trip anywhere in the world”. You need to move it to the top of your bucket list. Here is a small list of the highlights you will experience:
- Kathmandu, Nepal: you will love the ancient architecture and old villages.
- Flight to Mt. Everest: We charter planes that will fly to Mt. Everest for a closer fly by.
- The Ganges: Most tours do not include Varanasi and the sacred river, the Ganges. In the Hindu religion, the river Ganges is revered as a goddess whose purity cleanses the sins of the faithful and aids the dead on their path toward heaven. You will witness some of their religious traditions.
- The Taj Mahal: Considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.
- The Jaipur Amber Palace: you will ride elephants to the top of the hill containing the Amber Fort made out of pale yellow and pink sandstone, along with white marble. A true highlight.
- Jodhpur the Blue City: Blue is considered a sacred color. Settlers in the region dabbed their houses in blue hues. Jodhpur has become known as the blue city.
- The massive opulent Royal Umaid Bhawan Palace, home of the Royal Family of Jodhpur. This is one of the largest private residences in the world. Your group will be staying in this fantastic Palace.
- The massive Mehrangarth Fort in Jodhpur: This is the most beautiful ancient fortress palace in all of India and should not be missed.
- Pushkar Festival: With so few days in a year that the 1,000 year old festival is held and so few places to stay in the out of the way Pushkar area, very few tourists are ever able to experience the Pushkar Festival. Most have to stay in tent camps, but we have one of the few 5-star resort hotels for our passengers. This is only available to our passengers because of connections the owners of Fun For Less Tours have in India.
- Maharaja Palaces: Many of them are so stunning that they become an attraction unto themselves. We usually leave early and return around 4pm back to the Maharaja Palaces. This gives our passengers time to leisurely explore the beautiful grounds, take a swim in some of the beautiful swimming pools and enjoy dinner on patios overlooking the manicured gardens.
- The Country of Bhutan is an optional 5 day extension: Bhutan is a small picturesque country located high in the Himalayas with a border to Tibet. It was almost completely cut off for centuries with no roads in or out. It has tried to let in some aspects of the outside world while fiercely guarding its ancient traditions. They still wear clothing styles that are from the 16th century. Bhutan “Land of the Thunder Dragon”, only began to open up to outsiders in the 1970’s. Bhutan’s ancient Buddhist culture, friendly people and breathtaking scenery make it a natural tourist attraction.
Pricing
Package Price Includes:
- 2 nights 5-Star Luxury Taj Palace Hotel Delhi.
- 2 nights 5-Star Luxury Marriott Hotel Kathmandu.
- 2 night 5-Star Deluxe Taj Ganges – Varanasi.
- 2 nights 5-Star Luxury Jaypee Palace – Agra.
- 2 nights 5-Star Luxury Taj Jai Mahal Palace – Jaipur.
- 2 nights 5-Star Luxury Pushkara Resort Pushkar.
- 2 nights 5-Star Luxury Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur.
- 1 night 5-Star Luxury Samode Palace.
- 1 night 5-Star Luxury Trident Gurgaon Delhi
- 5 Airfares
- Delhi, India to Varanasi, India (the Ganges River).
- Varanasi, India to Kathmandu, Nepal.
- Kathmandu to Delhi.
- Jaipur, India to Jodhpur India.
- Jaipur, India to Delhi India.
- Breakfasts throughout tour.
- Special unique farewell dinner.
- Special flight to view Mt. Everest.
- The famous Pushkar Festival.
- Camel Carts to take us throughout the festival’s large area.
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- Dinners while in Pushkar.
- Boat ride on the Ganges.
- Elephant ride to the Amber Fort.
- Option to purchase International air into and out of India.
- Option to purchase 5-day extension to Bhutan.
- All entrance fees, buses, guides and tours.
- Transfers are included if you booked our group airfare or your flight arrives on or before and departs on or after our group flights.
- Fun for Less Tour managers throughout.
Package Price: $Sold Out*
**Per person cash discount price, based on double occupancy.
Does not include international airfare, tips and visas or Bhutan extension.
Optional 5 Day Extension To The Ancient Country of Bhutan:
Bhutan is a small picturesque country located high in the Himalayas with a border to Tibet. It was almost completely cut off for centuries with no roads in or out. It has tried to let in some aspects of the outside world while fiercely guarding its ancient traditions. They still wear clothing styles that are from the 16th century. Bhutan “Land of the Thunder Dragon”, only began to open up to outsiders in the 1970’s.
Bhutan’s ancient Buddhist culture, friendly people and breathtaking scenery make it a natural tourist attraction. Tourism is very restricted. They limit the number of visas each year and all visitors must travel as part of a pre-arranged package or guided tour, it is not open to independent travelers. Fun For Less Tours’ owners have been to Bhutan and have worked hard to obtain a chance for our passengers to visit this wonderful country. We highly recommend you add this optional extension!!!!
Itinerary
Day By Day India Itinerary (Always subject to change)
Day 1: October 28: Fly to DELHI India
Day 2: October 29: Arrive Delhi
We arrive late this evening. Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met outside the arrival lounge of the Airport and then transferred from the Airport to the 5 Star Luxury Trident Hotel, an oasis in a busy city with over 7 acres of gardens and water features. We are staying close to the airport. Tomorrow we fly from Delhi to Varanasi. Transfers to the hotel is included with those doing our group airfare or are arriving before or around the same time as our transfer. Overnight Delhi. (Transfers are included if you booked our group airfare or your flight arrives on or before and departs on or after our group flights.)
Day 3: October 30: Delhi – Varanasi
This morning after Breakfast we head back to the airport to catch our late morning flight to Varanasi located near the River Ganges. The river Ganges is revered as a goddess whose purity cleanses the sins of the faithful and aids the dead on their path toward heaven. We will do an afternoon sightseeing tour, followed by the evening Aarti on the banks of the Ganges. You’re staying in the Deluxe Taj Ganges.
Day 4: October 31: Varanasi
We will have an early morning boat ride at sunrise on the Ganges River. After we will return to the hotel for breakfast. Later we will proceed to visit Sarnath. Sarnath (along with Bodhgaya and Kushinagar in India and Lumbini in Nepal) is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world. Sarnath has special significance because it’s the place where the Buddha gave his first sermon. Overnight Deluxe Taj Gangies.
Day 5: November 1: Varanasi – Kathmandu flight
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport to board our flight to Kathmandu. After we arrive we will visit Swayambhunath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, dedicated to Buddhism and is situated in a hillock 80 m above the ground level and is claimed to be 2000 years old. There are numerous Buddhist monasteries (Gumba) around. The view of the valley is spectacular from here. Kathmandu Durbar Square, one of the seven World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley is worth visiting. It was the center of ancient and medieval Kathmandu. You will visit the Hanumandhoka Palace of Malla Kings. After we are done with our tour we will transfer to our 5 Star Luxury Marriott Hotel.
Day 6: November 2: Kathmandu valley
Early This morning, we will head to the airport to enjoy a fantastic highlight – Our Mount Everest flight. After our amazing flight, we will drive to Boudha Nath Stupa, the biggest stupa in the world. This is one of the World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley. After we will visit the Pashupati Nath Temple, the holiest Hindu Temple that draws devotees from all over Nepal and India. This temple is situated on the bank of Bagmati River, which is considered as holy as the Ganges. Cremation goes throughout the days and nights on the bank of Bagmati River. Later visit Bhaktapur, one of the three principalities of medieval Kathmandu. Bhaktapur, the youngest city in the valley has preserved its ancient look and originality. We then return to our hotel. Overnight at 5 Star Luxury Marriott Hotel.
Day 7: November 3: Kathmandu – Delhi
We will finish any missed touring in Kathmandu. We then head to the airport for our flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival we will transfer to our 5 Star Luxury Taj Palace Hotel.
Day 8: November 4: Delhi
Today after breakfast, we will start our tour of Delhi. We will visit the old city of Delhi including Jama Mosque, drive past Red Fort and visit Rajghat. We will also visit Sikh Temple at Bangla Sahib, India Gate and drive past the President’s House and Parliament buildings. We will also visit the mighty Qutub Minar (Victory Tower). Late this afternoon we will return to our Taj Palace Hotel.
Day 9: November 5: Delhi – Agra
Early this morning we will drive the approximate 5 hours to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Upon arrival, we will visit Itimad-Ud-Daulah Tomb, built by Empress Noor Jahan, in memory of her father, Ghias-ud-Din Beg in 1622-25AD. Later we will check-into your 5 Star Luxury Jaypee Palace in Agra.
Day 10: November 6: Agra
After breakfast, we will visit the world-famous Taj Mahal, regarded as one of the Wonders of the World. For many people throughout the world, the Taj Mahal mausoleum of the Mughal Empress Mumtaz Mahal is synonymous with India. Later we will visit Agra Fort, which has been the seat of Mughal rulers for several hundred years. Overnight stay a 5 Star Luxury Jaypee Palace.
Day 11: November 7: Agra – Jaipur
This morning after breakfast we drive to Jaipur, enroot we will visit Abhaneri step wells. Arrive and overnight in the 5 Star Luxury Taj Jai Mahal Palace in Jaipur.
Day 12: November 8: Jaipur
After breakfast, we will start the day by climbing up to the Amber Fort by Elephant. Our tour of the wonderful Amber fort includes Sheesh Mahal, Ganesh Pol, Shila Devi Temple, Kesar Kyari Bagh. In the afternoon we continue our tour of the Pink City that will include Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, Jantar Mantar, the observatory of stone and the City Palace. Overnight in your Palace Hotel.
Day 13: November 9: Jaipur – Jodhpur
Today we will take a late morning flight to Jodhpur. After a city tour we will head to your fantastic Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace. The Palace is its own huge highlight. Few are ever allowed to visit the palace and even fewer are ever allowed to stay in the private residence of the Royal Family.
Day 14: November 10: Jodhpur
Today after breakfast we will head to what we consider to be the most beautiful fortress in India. The Mehrangarh Fort is a symbol of the glorious history of the Maharajas of Marwar Kingdom. It is our favorite fort in all of India and worth the trip to Jodhpur to experience it. You will have a free afternoon to enjoy this fantastic Palace and take a swim in the pools. Overnight in the Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Day 15: November 11: Jodhpur – Pushkar
This morning we will take the approximate 5 hours drive to Pushkar, we have added a late lunch and dinner in the Pushkara Resort Hotel. This evening we will head to the desert by camel carts to witness the sunset. Upon arrival we will check into our deluxe Pushkara Resort hotel.
Day 16: November 12: The Famous Pushkar Festival
Pushkar is often considered the oldest continues festival in the world, dating back over 1,000 years. This morning we will take camel carts to the Pushkar fairgrounds, to see the thousands of camels for sale along with other animals. It is a sight to behold. We will also be visiting Pushkar lake. You will have some free time to experience the festivities and carnival like atmosphere that is Pushkar. Later in the afternoon we will return to our Pushkar Resort to overnight.
Day 17: November 13: Pushkar – Samode
This morning we head to the Samode village. It is about a 4-hour drive. Upon arrival, we will visit the Samode Bagh, which is the private garden retreat of the Samode Royal family. It is one of the oldest functional Mughal gardens of Rajasthan. We will relax with what they call high Tea in the afternoon before heading to the Samode Palace where will overnight. Dinner is included tonight.
Day 18: November 14: Jaipur-Delhi
After a leisurely morning enjoying your luxurious Palace and eating of your breakfast, we will check out of the palace and transfer to the airport to board the flight for Delhi. Upon arrival we will head to the Taj Palace Hotel. Those that are doing the Bhutan Extension will we will check into the hotel. Those going home will have time to relax and go out to eat, while they wait for their transfer to the airport to catch their late-night plane back to the U.S. – non-extension group flies’ home. (Transfers are included if you booked our group airfare or your flight arrives on or before and departs on or after our group flights.)
Day 19: November 15: Non-extension group arrives home
BHUTAN Extension
Important note: Tourism is very restricted in Bhutan. They limit the number of tourists visas each year and all visitors must travel as part of a pre-arranged package or guided tour, it is not open to independent travelers. Airfare into Bhutan is limited, usually only flown 3 days during a week. Bhutan charges a large number of expensive tourist and visa fees to discourage tourism. In fact, almost ½ of your cost to visit Bhutan can be found in the many fees and the cost of the airline into and out of Bhutan. Having stated all of the above, our group does have permission to tour Bhutan and even though it is expensive – WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!!!
Bhutan optional Tour Package Price Includes:
- Bhutan Daily Tourist Fee.
- Bhutan Visa Fee.
- Bhutan Royal (King) Fee.
- Bhutan Entrance and Exit Fees.
- Bhutan National Park Fees.
- Bhutan Airfare Delhi to Paro Bhutan.
- Bhutan Airfare Paro to Delhi India.
- All taxes, fuel surcharges and fees.
- Bhutan 5-Star Luxury Package that includes:
- 2 nights 5 Star Luxury Taj Tashi Hotel in Thimpu.
- 2 nights 5 Star Luxury Le Meridien Paro Hotel.
- Breakfast AND Dinner daily while in Bhutan.
- Tour Guides and Bhutan Tour escorts while in Bhutan.
- Horses with individual horse guide per person for partial treak to “Tigers Nest” – A Himalayan Buddhist Temple.
- All buses, transfers, guides and entrance fees.
- 1 Night 5-Star Luxury Taj Royal Palace Delhi.
- Transfers in Delhi.
- Fun For Less Tours Staff throughout.
- Use of our “Whisper Perfect” headset receivers.
Bhutan Optional Extension Package Pricing: $5,495
Bhutan Extension Itinerary:
Day 18: November 14: Delhi
After arrival into Delhi everyone will be transferred to the Taj Palace Hotel. Those doing the Bhutan Extension will check into their hotel and have a free evening. Those going home will have time to relax in the lobby area and go out for dinner before they head to the airport to fly home. (Transfers are included if you booked our group airfare or your flight arrives on or before and departs on or after our group flights.)
Day 19: November 15: Bhutan
This morning we will fly through breathtaking mountains before we land in Paro, Bhutan. Upon arrival, we will transfer to our 5-Star Luxury Taj Tashi hotel in Thimpu. Dinner is included tonight.
Day 20: November 16: Thimpu Valley
This morning you will drive to Thimphu, perhaps the most unusual capital city in the world and is Bhutan’s seat of government. This bustling town is home to Bhutan’s royal family. In Thimpu we will visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School), the National Memorial Chorten, the Folk Heritage and National Textile Museums, and the Tashichho Dzong, this impressive fortress/monastery houses the secretariat building, the throne room of his majesty, the king and various government offices. This evening we will return to the Taj Tashi – dinner is included.
Day 21: November 17: Paro Valley
Today we will visit Ta Dzong which was built as a watchtower to Rinpung Dzong. It is now a national museum. After the museum, we will visit Rinpung Dzong, which was built in 1646 and is also called the “fortress of the heap of jewels”. After we are done touring we will transfer to our 5-Star Luxury Le Meridian hotel. Dinner is included tonight.
Day 22: November 18: Tiger’s Nest
Today will be the best highlight day of all of India, Nepal and Bhutan. We will visit the Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, which is nestled up on a cliff of the mountain. We will ride horses 1/2 of the way up and then we will have to hike and climb many stairs the rest of the way. We will have to hike down to the bottom. We will then drive to Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought off Tibetan invader’s centuries ago. End back at our hotel.
Day 23: November 19: Fly to Delhi and continue home
This morning we will be leaving beautiful Bhutan and fly back to Delhi. Then continue later this evening with our flights back to the USA and home. (Transfers are included if you booked our group airfare or your flight arrives on or before and departs on or after our group flights.)
Day 24: November 20: Arrive home
