Secrets Of India With Nepal Tour

On this vacation, discover India and Nepal, two countries with a long history and a rich cultural heritage. Start in India and visit some of its most famous sights, including the Taj Mahal, built by Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife. Built from 1631-1648 AD, he employed thousands of artisans and craftsmen as well as a labor force of 20,000. You'll get the chance to see this amazing structure plus Agra Fort, the 16th-century red sandstone fortress where Moghul rulers lived. In 1876, Jaipur was painted pink to welcome Prince Albert and Queen Elizabeth II, and it has been known as the "Pink City" ever since. Here, visit the Amber Fort, built in 1592 with white marble and red sandstone.

The remarkable structures are just part of India's appeal. You'll also enjoy a rickshaw ride through a colorful local bazaar, a cooking demonstration of Indian food, and a home-hosted meal with an Indian noble family. If you're interested in the different religions, you'll get a chance to learn more. Visit Sarnath, the "Cradle of Buddhism," where Buddha first spoke of his philosophy. In Varanasi, board a boat to watch the Hindu's devotional bathing in the Ganges. Observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river's edge-some practicing yoga, others meditating, and others bathing fully clothed. You'll also travel to Kathmandu, Nepal, where you'll visit Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.