Colorful India & the Ganges River with Southern India, Varanasi & Kathmandu 2021
Speak With A Tour Specialist
Tour Operator:
Tour Code:
WDKY1
Start City:
Cochin
End City:
Kathmandu
Tour Style:
Tour Quality:
First Class
Tour Length:
21 days
Tour Capacity:
56
Physical Rating:
1 - Light
Reviews:
Dates & Prices
| Start Date | End Date | Offers | Brochure Land Price | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 11, 2021 | Oct 01, 2021 | Get Lower Price | Get Quote | |
| Oct 06, 2021 | Oct 26, 2021 | Get Lower Price | Get Quote | |
| Oct 23, 2021 | Nov 12, 2021 | Get Lower Price | Get Quote | |
| Oct 31, 2021 | Nov 20, 2021 | Get Lower Price | Get Quote |
Promotions
LOW UNPUBLISHED PRICES ON GLOBUS TOURS
Why pay full price? Call us or click above for a quick quote and save money on Globus Tours.
Discount for Young Travelers!
Discount for Young Travelers!
Promotion Details
10% off Young Traveler discount based on the full land-only cost of the tour. Only applies to Globus and Cosmos; does not apply to Avalon Waterways, vacations including Oberammergau or Escapes Vacations by Globus. To receive the Young Traveler discount, the age of the traveler must qualify at start date of the vacation. Does not apply to custom groups. Discount is applicable to any accommodation. Additional restrictions may apply.
Big Savings For Small Groups
Big Savings For Small Groups
Promotion Details
Traveling party of 5, 6, or 7 must travel from same origination point and must be advised at the time of booking. Discount on the land-only portion of core tour, not including extra night accommodations, extensions, taxes/fees, tips, and supplements. Does not apply to Globus Escapes, Cosmos, Monograms, vacations including Oberammergau or Avalon Waterways. Not combinable with other group allowances. Travelers already traveling at a discount, such as children, do not count toward the party total. Offer reliant on space availability, and applies to new bookings only. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Does not apply to custom groups or Escapes by Globus. Additional restrictions may apply.
Save $300 per couple on select 2021 Europe river cruises
Save $300 per couple on select 2021 Europe river cruises
Promotion Details
*Book a select 2021 Avalon Waterways Europe river cruise to receive $150 off per person on the cruise/land or cruise only price. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied between November 19, 2019 - April 6, 2020 for travel at select times in 2021. Not applicable to custom tours. Discount will apply to individual members of groups adding a name and non-refundable per person deposit within the promo window. Not applicable on TBA space. Offer reliant on space availability at time of booking and may be withdrawn at any time. Offer combinable only with Welcome Back Credit. Applies to new 2020 bookings only and offer will not be applied to pre-existing bookings. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply; see Travel Terms & Conditions for details. May be withdrawn at any time. Offer applies to participating GFOB offices only. PRMW0776
Triple Room Reduction
Triple Room Reduction
Promotion Details
Reduction varies by vacation and may not available on all packages. Does not apply to custom groups or Escapes by Globus. Additional restrictions may apply.
Up to $500 Welcome Back Credit for Repeat Travelers
Up to $500 Welcome Back Credit for Repeat Travelers
Promotion Details
- Spend $2499 or less and receive $100 credit
- Spend $2500 - $3499 and receive $150 credit
- Spend $3500 - $4499 and receive $200 credit
- Spend $4500 & Over and receive $250 credit
The Welcome Back Credit will be awarded upon completion of Globus family of brands vacations from 2019 onward. Credit amount can only be applied to the land/cruise or cruise only portion of a new Globus family of brands vacation (excluding Escapes by Globus, 2020 Oberammergau, select Cosmos tours, Monograms City Getaways, and Custom/Charter vacations). Credit amount is per person and must be redeemed for a future vacation with a deposit within 2 years from date of credit issue. Bookings can be made by contacting your preferred travel agent. Passenger name or past invoice number is required to redeem the credit. Combinable with all applicable consumer promotions except those with any Globus family of brands special discount programs of the vacation price. Credit is not redeemable for cash, non-refundable deposit, airfare, transfers, travel insurance, prepaid gratuities, pre/post nights, or optional excursions and is non-transferrable. All federal, state and local laws and regulations apply. Valid for all participating Globus family of brands offices. Additional restrictions may apply.
Tour Itinerary
Enter a world of color, culture, and cherished spiritual tradition of India and Nepal. Your guided tour of India, Nepal, and Ganges River cruise begins in the Southern India city of Cochin, where you’ll take a cruise on the backwaters of Kerala to witness life along the scenic and serene waterways. Explore Mumbai, home to “Bollywood,” and Varanasi, to watch the Hindu’s devotional bathing in the Ganges. Continue on to the bustling city of Delhi. You’ll tour the city with your expert local guide, and take a rickshaw ride through the Chandni Chowk bazaar—brimming with everything from silver and spices to saris of every color. You’ll visit Qutub Minar—the world’s largest brick minaret, and see Delhi’s largest Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), before traveling to Agra—site of the legendary Taj Mahal. Join a sunrise excursion to the Taj Mahal—the iconic memorial build by Moghul emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife. More than 20 years in the making, the Taj Mahal stands as the pinnacle of love’s devotion, and is also yours to experience at sunset if you wish. You’ll enjoy the city of Jaipur, with its famous Palace of the Winds, and spectacular Amber Fort, before flying to Kolkata to board your Ganges river cruise. The holy river of Hinduism, the Ganges, slowly courses through one of the world’s most fertile and populated areas. Along its banks, human life is connected to its waters and you’ll get a glimpse of life away from India’s big cities. See muslin weaving in Kalna and candy making in Matiari. Stop in Murshidabad for an excursion to Azimganj and Jiaganj—to tour a historic mansion and see a gold and silver making demonstration Explore the fascinating Hare Krishna headquarters in Mayapur, and visit Saint Mother Teresa’s former home upon your return to Kolkata. In Kathmandu, sightseeing is spread over two leisurely days. Visits include Hanuman Dhoka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess, a child thought to be the reincarnation of a Hindu goddess. You’ll also journey to Patan and Bouddhanath, Nepal’s largest stupa. All of this and more await you on this once-in-a-lifetime vacation with a guided tour of India and Nepal with a Ganges River cruise.
Day 1: COCHIN, INDIA
Welcome to Cochin, the “Gateway to Kerala,” India’s southernmost state known for its natural beauty. Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2: COCHIN
Your Guided Tour starts with a visit to the Kerala Folklore Museum which aims to educate people about the unique culture and heritage of South India. Then, drive out of the city to embark an unforgettable afternoon Cruise on the backwaters of Kerala. Explore and witness local life along these serene waterways surrounded by lush palm trees and paddy fields.
(B,L)
Day 3: COCHIN–MUMBAI
Today, fly to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a colorful history. This vibrant city is now India’s premier seaport, center of culture and industry, and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry.
(B)
Day 4: MUMBAI
Your Guided Tour starts with an orientation for photos at some of the cities famous sites, including Victoria Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, witness Mumbai’s fascinating tiffen lunch box delivery system. At Churchgate Station, the dabbawalas (box carriers) transfer the lunch boxes onto a wooden cart on a local train. Board the train for the short ride to Mahalaxmi Station where you’ll disembark and watch the boxes being sorted by color for final delivery. Lastly, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
(B,L)
Day 5: MUMBAI–VARANASI
Fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. Early this evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River
(B,D)
Day 6: VARANASI–DELHI
Around dawn, board a Boat Excursion and watch a striking religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. You’ll observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, some practicing yoga, others meditating, and still others bathing fully clothed. Return to your hotel for breakfast and some time at leisure prior to flying to Delhi.
(B,L)
Day 7: DELHI
Saris, Spices, and Silver
CLASSIC Today’s Guided Sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Afterward, take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar—with its ancient alleyways lined with quaint shops offering everything from silver and saris to spices and electronics.
After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of leisure time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner at your hotel.
(B,L,D)
Day 8: DELHI–AGRA
Monuments of Worship and Remembrance
CLASSIC This morning, take a Guided Excursion to visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi’s largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship).
After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in at your hotel.
(B,L)
Day 9: AGRA
Love’s Crowning Achievement
CLASSIC Start your day with a Sunrise Excursion to the incomparable Taj Mahal—Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan’s memorial to his beloved wife—more than 20 years in the making.
CLASSIC Later, take a Guided Tour to Agra Fort, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This formidable fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces.
For those interested, an excursion to the Taj Mahal at sunset is included.
(B,D)
Day 10: AGRA–JAIPUR
Welcome to the Pink City
Travel to Jaipur—the “Pink City” that was painted pink for the Prince of Wales’ 1876 visit.
After lunch, enjoy the afternoon and evening at your leisure.
(B,L)
Day 11: JAIPUR
A Maharaja’s Marble Palace and Gateway to the Stars
CLASSIC Today, join a Guided Excursion to Jaipur’s spectacular Amber Fort, built entirely of white marble and red sandstone, and featuring intricate mosaics, carvings, paintings, and mirror works.
CLASSIC This afternoon, take a Guided Tour of the City Palace and the adjoining museum, which houses a collection of rare manuscripts. Also, stop at Jantar Mantar, a fascinating astronomical observatory built in the early 18th century.
(B,D)
Day 12: JAIPUR–KOLKATA (EMBARKATION)
Welcome to West Bengal. Your Ship Awaits.
Fly to Kolkata this morning to transfer to your ship. Get acquainted with the ship prior to your welcome reception this evening.
AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO KALNA
(B,L,D)
Day 13: KALNA
Rituals, Rickshaws, and Muslin Weavers
DISCOVERY Ride on cycle rickshaws during your Guided Exploration of Kalna. Along the way visit the historic terracotta temple complex and receive blessings from the temple priest. Also visit a muslin-weaver’s home.
Enjoy a free afternoon on board your ship.
AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO MATIARI
(B,L,D)
Day 14: MATIARI
Sweet Shops and Shiny Brass
DISCOVERY Join a Guided Walk through the village of Matiari where fascinating scenes of everyday life unfold in front of you. Stop to see how traditional sweets are made and explore the local produce market. The village is best known for brass-making and you’ll see how scrap metal is recycled to make figurines and functional items such as tea sets and vases. For the final step, watch a talented craftsman delicately hand-hammer intricate patterns into the brass.
Enjoy a free afternoon onboard your ship.
AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO MURSHIDABAD
(B,L,D)
Day 15: MURSHIDABAD. EXCURSION TO AZIMGANJ & JIAGANJ
Silversmiths, Tea Service, and Silk Sarees
DISCOVERY Guided Sightseeing brings you to two towns on opposite sides of the river. In Jiaganj, travel by electric rickshaw to see the art of Baluchari saree weaving. In Azimganj, walk through the local crafts market and explore Bari Kothi, a former residence that has been restored to its former grandeur after being abandoned for over half a century. You’ll also witness a silver- and gold-making demonstration.
Relax this afternoon onboard your ship.
AFTERNOON/EVENING SAILING TO MAYAPUR
(B,L,D)
Day 16: MAYAPUR–GUPTIPARA
A Holy Pilgrimage on the Ganges
CLASSIC Your Morning Excursion brings you to the fascinating ISKCON campus at Mayapur, the worldwide headquarters of the Hare Krishna movement. A Krishna leader will guide you throughout your visit to introduce you to their philosophy and life on campus, Along the way, you’ll tour the main temple and have time for questions.
DISCOVERY This afternoon, climb aboard a Rickshaw (Toto) for your visit to the small riverside village of Guptipara. Along the way, see pottery and idol making. You’ll also visit a farmer’s home to interact with the family.
AFTERNOON/EVENING SAILING TO KOLKATA
(B,L,D)
Day 17: KOLKATA
Flowers, Faith, and Victorian Art
CLASSIC This morning, take a Guided Walk through the colorful flower market. Afterward, focus on the life and work of Mother Teresa who dedicated her life to helping the city’s poor. Stop at her former home prior to visiting Nirmala Shishu Bhavan, a home for orphaned children run by Missionaries of Charity which she founded in 1950.
CLASSIC After lunch, join a Guided Visit to the Victoria Memorial Museum. Built to commemorate Queen Victoria, the museum houses a beautiful collection of paintings, textiles, weapons, and other artifacts from the Victorian era.
Tonight, a farewell Dance Performance is presented on the ship.
(B,L,D)
Day 18: KOLKATA–KATHMANDU, NEPAL
Today, fly to Nepal. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
(B)
Day 19: KATHMANDU
Today, your Guided Sightseeing starts with a visit to Hanuman Dhoka, the historic seat of royalty. Then, visit the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess and said to be constructed from the wood of a single tree. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Kathmandu.
(B,L)
Day 20: KATHMANDU
Start your Sightseeing Tour at Bouddahanath, one of the largest stupas in the world and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Then, continue to Patan, formerly known as Lalitpur (“City of Beauty”). Here, stop in Durbar Square, the city’s center of business and home to several Buddhist and Hindu sites. The remainder of the day is free.
(B,L)
Day 21: KATHMANDU
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
(B)
OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620
Sightseeing & Activities:
Day 1 Cochin, India: Welcome to India
Day 2 Cochin: Visit the Kerala Folklore Museum; cruise on the backwaters of Kerala
Day 3 Cochin–Mumbai: Fly to Mumbai
Day 4 Mumbai: Guided Tour to see Victoria Terminus, the Gateway of India, and a traditional open-air laundromat; witness Mumbai’s fascinating lunch box delivery system; visit Mani Bhavan
Day 5 Mumbai–Varanasi: Fly to Varanasi. Witness the Ganga Aarti
Day 6 Varanasi–Delhi: Watch the Hindus’ devotional bathing ritual; fly to Delhi.
Day 7 Delhi: See Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace; rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk bazaar
Day 8 Delhi–Agra: Sightseeing including visits to Qutab Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib; drive to Agra
Day 9 Agra: Sunrise visit to Taj Mahal; Agra Fort; sunset visit to Taj Mahal
Day 10 Agra–Jaipur: Drive to Jaipur; afternoon sightseeing including visits to the City Palace and Jantar Mantar
Day 11 Jaipur: Morning Excursion to Amber Fort; afternoon sightseeing including visits to the City Palace and Jantar Mantar
Day 12 Jaipur–Kolkata (Embarkation): Fly to Kolkata; onboard welcome reception
Day 13 Kalna: Sightseeing by rickshaw; visit a temple complex to receive blessings from a priest and visit a muslin-weaver’s home
Day 14 Matiari: Walking tour of village to interact with brass craftsmen and see traditional sweets being made
Day 15 Murshidabad. Excursion to Azimganj & Jiaganj: Travel by electric rickshaw to see saree weaving in Jiaganj; Guided Walk through Azimganj to see the local crafts market, visit Bari Kothi; silver and gold making demonstration
Day 16 Mayapur–Guptipara: Morning visit to the ISKCON temple in Mayapur; rickshaw ride through Guptipara to see pottery-making and a farmer’s home
Day 17 Kolkata: Guided walk through the flower market; visit Mother Teresa’s Home, home for orphaned children, and the
Victoria Memorial Museum; farewell dance performance
Day 18 Kolkata–Kathmandu, Nepal: Fly to Nepal
Day 19 Kathmandu: Sightseeing with visits to Hanuman Dhoka and the Temple of Kumari
Day 20 Kathmandu: Visit Bouddahanath; excursion to Patan
Day 21 Kathmandu: End of vacation
Hygiene and Safety Protocols for Globus Tours
Today's world has changed, but what remains certain is Globus' commitment to guest safety, comfort and peace-of-mind while traveling with us. To that end, Globus has established a worldwide Assurance program, with enhanced on-trip protocols and procedures, to ensure the health – and happiness – of guests throughout their travels with us.
It all starts with Globus' Global Health & Safety Team, dedicated to ensuring that cleanliness of all operations exceeds today’s travel standards—from start to finish. The following areas address Globus' commitment to providing a safe and clean environment for guests.
A SAFE & WARM WELCOMEGlobus will enact new tour check-in procedures and pre-trip health screenings to offer guests a safe start to their journey, including adherence to social distancing requirements.
BLENDING CULTURAL PROXIMITY WITH SOCIAL DISTANCEGlobus will ensure safe distances for guests throughout the journey, on coach and during excursions. This includes providing masks for guests use at any time where social proximity could be an issue as well as the possibility of reducing group sizes, if required. And wireless listening technology – including Globus' Go Beyond Devices in Europe – enables safe distances between guests and other travelers on excursions.
FOCUS ON GUEST AND TEAM MEMBER HEALTHTo ensure a healthy environment for team and guests, Globus will conduct regular temperature checks for both guests and team, and when necessary, masks will be worn by Globus' team members when with guests.
TOUCHING HEARTS, NOT HANDSTraveling with Globus removes many of the “touch points” of travel, including luggage handling, check in/out, expedited entry into attractions and more. Globus are further reducing risk with hands-free service, meaning all self-services replaced by staff, including buffet meals replaced with table service. Globus will also ensure hand sanitizing is available throughout each trip, on coach and in hotels.
COMMITMENT TO CLEANAs a part of Globus' commitment to clean, Globus is requiring enhanced cleaning procedures with hotel partners, on motorcoaches, vehicles and throughout every trip, including additional daily disinfecting procedures that go above-and-beyond already strict health and safety procedures.
PARTNERS IN DISCOVERY AND IN HEALTHGlobus has strict health and safety protocols, which have been in place for years, focused on ensuring all aspects of operation- from vehicles and equipment used on trip to excursions and hotel procedures. This process will continue with new, elevated health and safety checks, to maintain their promise that each touch-point on tours and cruises are considered in their commitment to guest and team member well-being.
OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620
Dates and Prices do not include air travel.
Participation in this vacation requires purchase of the following flights from Avalon Waterways, not included in pricing: (1) roundtrip air from your U.S. gateway and intra-vacation air segments; or (2) intra-vacation air segments only, starting at $1075. Required intra-vacation air segment: Cochin/Mumbai; Mumbai/Varanasi; Varanasi/Delhi; Jaipur/Kolkata; Kolkata/Kathmandu. Air prices were effective on April 7, 2020 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your tour, air prices may be higher.
Port charges:
$93
Gratuities to Local Guides & drivers are included. Gratuities for drivers and local hosts on extensions are not included and should be paid locally.
Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travelers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability).
Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.
Additional accomodations before or after your tour may be available.
All prices are per person based on double room occupancy. Cruise price based on Category B in a Deluxe Suite on Main Deck.
Category / Deck / Price
B / Main Deck /
A / Upper Deck / $400
Heritage Suite / Upper Deck / $800
Viceroy Suite / Upper Deck / $1,200
Maharajah Suite / Upper Deck / $1,600
Willingdon Island
Cochin , India
Apollo Bunder, Colaba
Mumbai , India
Nadesar Palace Ground Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi , India
2 Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi
Delhi , India
Taj East Gate Road, Uttar Pradesh
Agra , India
Jacob Rd, Civl Lines
Jaipur , India
Battisputali
Kathmandu , Nepal
OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620
Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?
Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?
Similar Tours Other Travelers Liked
This trip has exceeded my expectations.
Every aspect of the trip was very smooth. Director provided excellent information on what was upcoming. Local guides were great in sharing personal stories tied in to what was being seen.
Amazing trip, and tour guide. Would recommend to others
Everything was terrific. Would do this again. G
I found Globus Tours (sold by Affordable Tours) to be a good mix of guided tours and free time. The extra excursions offered were excellent and well organized.
This was a first rate, professional tour company. We had an excellent experience.
Easy and fast booking
The tour guide was very knowledgeable and professional. The drivers were above expectations. Rooms and meals were great. Would use Affordable Tours and Globus again.
Our tour guide Helen is excellent, she is very knowledgeable in history and explain things very clear. She is caring and did a very good job and made this trip memorable and the groups are easier going and made a great difference for this trip. Thank you for your services and certainly I will recommend my friends and I hope in near future l will make another trip with you and your company. Thank you.
Our tour director (Bob) and driver (Joe)) we're truly outstanding. The itinerary was great. Highly recommend.
My trip was fantastic, hotels, staff and guide your director was outstanding!!! Very happy with my trip, and will book another trip again we Affortable tours !
Fantastic trip. One of the best trips I ever took.
The tour operator are exceptional professional and friendly
Affordable tours is my agent of choice, in fact all my scheduled tour is book with affordable tours
Call Us Now 1-800-935-2620
How It Works
Vacationing has never been easier or cheaper with the help of a dedicated travel consultant from AffordableTours.com
Free Quote
Find your perfect trip on our website and simply request a free quote. Need to speak to a live person? Call us 7 days a week at 1-800-935-2620. No robots here!
Dedicated Travel Consultant
Your personal travel consultant will reach out and be your point of contact for your entire travel experience from start to finish. Did we mention you'll be working with an award winning team? Sweet!
Lowest Price Guaranteed
Because we're one of the largest sellers of travel, we're able to give you a discount on your vacation package. No one beats our prices!
Stress Free Travel
Knowing you got the best deal, all that's left is for you to pack your bags and enjoy your vacation!
Excellent tour