Africa
Americas
Asia
Europe
Oceania
Book your trip
Get expert advice and book your trip with ease.
Book with an expert:
+44 20 76 60 34 10
Need assistance with your trip?
Visit our Help Center
View 11 photos
Golden Triangle & Himalayan wonders
India, Nepal & Bhutan in 18 Days, 16 Nights in Destination
Irene
Travel crafter
From Delhi’s rich heritage to the Taj Mahal’s splendour, Kathmandu’s spiritual heart, and Bhutan’s mystical peaks—immerse yourself in a journey of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Trip Highlights
- Kathmandu
- Patan
- Paro
- Punakha
- Thimphu
- Tiger's Nest
- Agra
- Delhi
- Jaipur
Included
All flights
Accommodation
All transfers
Activities
Some meals
Availability
Departures available until November 2026
Available Group tours
Solo travelers from + £ 640
- WHAT'S THIS?
Categories available
charm included
superior from + £ 1,600
- WHAT'S THIS?
Itinerary
Discover Delhi’s vibrant streets, Jaipur’s royal palaces, and Agra’s legendary Taj Mahal. Fly to Nepal to explore Kathmandu’s sacred stupas, and Himalayan views. In Bhutan, visit Thimphu’s monasteries, Punakha’s majestic dzong, and the cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. A journey through traditions, architectural marvels, and awe-inspiring nature.
1st Day: UK/Ireland - Night on board
Are you ready to experience the land of a thousand colours? Pack your bags and set off to your departure airport ready for your flight* to Delhi, India's vibrant capital! Night on board.
*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
2nd Day: Delhi
Arrive in the capital of India and transfer to the hotel for check-in*. Delhi is a city with an impressive architectural legacy that boasts a spectacular historical centre. The rest of the day is free to rest or to get to know this lively, fascinating city. Overnight stay in Delhi**.
*You will have the option to add early check-in on arrival in the next step of the booking process. To guarantee optional services, we recommend that you add them to your current booking, as they are subject to availability.
**Upgrade to half-board by adding 6 dinners in the next step of the booking process.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Park Plaza Delhi CBD Shah... or similar
2877 Reviews
See our full selection
3rd Day: Delhi
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, visit Old Delhi including the Jama Masjid Royal Mosque and the lively Chandni Chowk Street. Ride a rickshaw around the Red Fort, the former residence of the Imperial Family.
Admire the Raj Ghat, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. In the afternoon, explore New Delhi, passing through the India Gate, the Mausoleum of Emperor Humayun, the majestic government buildings and the Presidential Palace. Overnight stay in Delhi.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Park Plaza Delhi CBD Shah... or similar
2877 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Tour of Old Delhi
Moderate
See more
Guided Tour with Panoramic View of New Delhi
Moderate
See more
4th Day: Delhi - Jaipur
Breakfast at the hotel. Leave by road to Jaipur, known as the Pink City. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, was built in 1728 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Its architecture is a magnificent confluence of Hindu, Jain and Mughal architectural styles.
Arrive and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to get to know this vibrant city. In the evening light, the pink-coloured buildings exude a magical glow, complemented by the camel-drawn carts that are characteristic of the streets. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Estimated transfer distance: 165 miles / 265 km. Approximate duration: 5 hours.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Golden Tulip Jaipur or similar
3130 Reviews
See our full selection
5th Day: Jaipur
Breakfast at the hotel. Set off for the Hawa Mahal, Palace of the Winds, on your way to the Amber Fort. Explore the majestic Amber Fort with a Jeep transfer. In the interior, cross the premises of the palace Jag Mandir and the famous Sheesh Mahal, a room embedded with beautifully bright pieces of mirror.
Continue with a city tour of Jaipur including a visit to the Palace of the Maharaja, former royal residence, where a part of it has been converted into a museum. Also experience the wonder of the Jantar Mantar, the largest observatory in the world, made of marble. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Golden Tulip Jaipur or similar
3130 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Visit to the Amber Fort
Active
See more
Photo Stop at the Palace of the Winds
Light
See more
City Tour of Jaipur
Moderate
See more
6th Day: Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra
Breakfast at the hotel. Leave for Agra and along the way visit Fatehpur Sikri, an impressive historic town. Next, pass by Buland Darwaza, the largest gate in the world.
Arrive in Agra and enjoy a world of contrasting colours of red sandstone and white marble with an irresistible charm that made this the favourite city of the Mughals. Transfer to the hotel and check-in.
Afterwards visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the fort, discover the picturesque Pearl Mosque. Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Agra.
Estimated transfer distance: 147 miles / 235 km. Approximate duration: 5 hours and 30 minutes.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Golden Tulip Agra or similar
251 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Visit Fatehpur Sikri
Moderate
See more
Visit to the Agra Fort
Moderate
See more
7th Day: Agra - Delhi
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, experience the legendary splendour of the Taj Mahal, the ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river and a universal symbol of love.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his beloved wife. Afterwards, enjoy an afternoon drive back to Delhi. Transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Delhi.
Estimated transfer distance: 130 miles / 210 km. Approximate duration: 4 hours and 30 minutes.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Park Plaza Delhi CBD Shah... or similar
2877 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Taj Mahal Visit
Moderate
See more
8th Day: Delhi - Kathmandu
Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu.
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel**. The largest urban area in Nepal, Kathmandu has a population of 2.5 million inhabitants. The capital is situated at 1,400 meters above sea level in a picturesque, bowl-shaped valley in central Nepal. Spend the day exploring the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Kathmandu***.
*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.
**You will have the option to add early check-in on arrival in the next step of the booking process. To guarantee optional services, we recommend that you add them to your current booking, as they are subject to availability.
***You have the possibility to upgrade to half-board in Nepal by adding 4 dinners in the next step of the booking process.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Tibet or similar
657 Reviews
See our full selection
9th Day: Kathmandu
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a guided visit to Boudhanath and Pashupatinath. Start your journey at Boudhanath, an awe-inspiring Buddhist stupa that ranks among the largest in the world and stands as a key icon of Nepal. Set on an octagonal base and surrounded by the peaceful homes of Lamas, this sacred site offers a unique spiritual experience. Next, explore the Pashupatinath Hindu Temple, located on the east bank of the river. This ancient and significant temple, dedicated to Shiva, is nestled in a stunning natural setting.
After your tour, enjoy a free afternoon to leisurely explore the city or pick up any last-minute souvenirs. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Tibet or similar
657 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Half Day Excursion to visit Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa
Light
See more
10th Day: Kathmandu - Patan - Kathmandu
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, consider joining our optional flight-seeing excursion to Mount Everest* for a breathtaking aerial view. Then, head out to explore the medieval streets of Kathmandu and immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant culture of the Newari people. Begin with a visit to the Ason market, the city’s oldest shopping area, renowned for its vibrant vegetable and spice stalls. This lively intersection connects to various streets where you can experience traditional culture and admire the distinctive local architecture.
Continue to explore through jammed bazaars and visit the Kumari Temple which houses the living Goddess Kumari and is a great example of Nepal’s magnificent architecture with its intricate wood carvings of gods and various symbols. Enjoy an external view of the Taleju Temple followed by a visit to Kal Bhairab.
In the afternoon, we step into the Temple of Swayambhunath - a stupa on the top of hill - which is one of the most prominent Buddhist pilgrimage sites, for an overlook the scenery of Kathmandu Valley. Later proceed to Patan city (about 15 minutes driving) to visit the Patan Durbar Square - the oldest of the three cities in the Kathmandu Valley and one of the oldest Buddhist City in the world. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
*Optional Mount Everest Flight-seeing Excursion: Enjoy one-hour long sightseeing on a fixed-wing aircraft for an experience of a lifetime. All the spectacular glaciers, snow-capped peaks and gorges glide below as you fly towards Mt. Everest. Includes a flight certificate awarded at the end of the excursion. Return to Kathmandu to begin the rest of the day sightseeing.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Tibet or similar
657 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Excursion to Kathmandu
Moderate
See more
Mount Everest Flight-Seeing
Light
See more
11th Day: Kathmandu - Bhaktapur - Kathmandu
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, visit Bhaktapur, known as the City of the Devotees, to admire the great architectural beauty of this royal city of the Kathmandu Valley. Also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bhaktapur is the best-preserved historical centre in the valley. The Royal Palace stands out, whose entrance door is a masterpiece in embossed art, as does the Nyatapola Temple, known as the Temple of the Five Roofs, which is a pagoda of five magnificently sculpted floors and one of the highest in the country.
Later, continue to the oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley, the Changu Narayan Temple located in the Changu village and dedicated to the god Vishnu. From here there is a beautiful view of the surroundings. Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Tibet or similar
657 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Excursion to Bhaktapur
Moderate
See more
12th Day: Kathmandu - Paro - Thimphu
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro, Bhutan. Upon arrival, transfer to Thimphu, the capital of this mythical and spiritual country, located in a lush valley, and catch sight of the iconic Thimphu River. Once you arrive at the hotel, check in and enjoy dinner. Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Norbuling or similar
453 Reviews
See our full selection
13th Day: Thimphu
Full-Board. Today, embark on an enriching tour of Thimphu, Bhutan's vibrant capital. Begin by visiting the spectacular Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of the King, offering a glimpse into the country's spiritual heritage. Next, explore the Craft Centre School, renowned for its exquisite Thangka paintings and traditional Bhutanese arts.
In the afternoon, visit the serene Changangkha Monastery, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the city and see the iconic prayer wheel. Then, head to the radio tower for a panoramic perspective of Thimphu before delving into Bhutan's natural heritage at the National Institute of Traditional Medicine. Discover the traditional processes at the Paper Factory and marvel at the architecture and history of two of Thimphu's most exquisite Dzongs: Tashichho Dzong and Simtokha Dzong. Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Norbuling or similar
453 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Tour of the city of Thimphu
Moderate
See more
14th Day: Thimphu - Dochula Pass – Punakha
Full-Board. Today, embark on a captivating journey towards Punakha. Along the way, enjoy a scenic walk through the breathtaking Dochula Pass, renowned for its panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan mountains.
Upon arrival in Punakha, delve into the rich history and architecture of Punakha Dzong, the majestic winter residence of Bhutan's spiritual leader, revered as one of the country's most stunning structures.
Later, immerse yourself in the cultural exploration at Chimi Lhakhang, a Buddhist temple dedicated to fertility, known for its vibrant murals and spiritual significance. Conclude your day surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Bhutan's countryside. Overnight stay in Punakha.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel River Valley Punakh... or similar
4 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Visit to Punakha Dzong and to Chimi Lhakhang
Moderate
See more
Walk along Dochula Pass
Moderate
See more
15th Day: Punakha - Wangdue Dzong - Semthoka Dzong - Paro
Full board. Today, journey to Paro, exploring the majestic Wangdue Dzong and Semthoka Dzong along the way. Both are nestled amidst stunning landscapes. Delve into the rich history and spiritual significance of these architectural marvels.
In Paro, visit Drukgyel Dzong and wander among the ancient ruins of this historic fortress, soaking in its storied past. Conclude your day with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, a revered temple with its striking white facade set against the backdrop of scenic hills. Finally, transfer to your hotel in Paro and unwind after a day filled with cultural exploration and historical marvels. Overnight stay in Paro.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Metta Resort & Spa or similar
525 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Visit to Wangdue, Semthoka and Drukgyel Dzongs and Kyichu Lhakhang
Moderate
See more
16th Day: Paro
Full board. Today, embark on a journey to discover Bhutan's most iconic attraction, the legendary Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger's Nest. This revered monastery holds immense spiritual significance and boasts 13 sacred sites nestled within the Himalayan landscape.
Hike up to this sacred sanctuary, perched dramatically on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. Admire the colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere that permeates the site.
In the afternoon, continue your cultural exploration with a visit to Ta Dzong, now transformed into a national museum. Explore its impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including paintings, textiles, and weapons, which provide a deeper insight into Bhutan's rich history and heritage. Overnight stay in Paro.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Metta Resort & Spa or similar
525 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Hike to Taktsang Monastery
Challenging
See more
Visit to Ta Dzong (National Museum)
Light
See more
17th Day: Paro - Kathmandu
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, trasnfer to the hotel and then you'll have free time to savor your final hours in Nepal at your own pace. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Tibet or similar
657 Reviews
See our full selection
18th Day: Kathmandu - UK/Ireland
Breakfast at the hotel*. Sadly, it’s time to end your journey. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight back to UK/Ireland. Arrive in UK/Ireland and end your trip**.
*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.
**Depending on the choice of flight, you may arrive back in UK/Ireland the next day.
Categories
charm
From £ 3,999
- Accomodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.
superior
From £ 5,599
- Accomodation in Superior and Luxury category hotels.
Pick a date and start customising your trip
Learn more
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |||
5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
1 | ||||||
2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 |
23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 |
30 |
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 |
14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 |
28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
1 | 2 | 3 | ||||
4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 |
18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 |
25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
Included activities
Show more
Available Activities
The price includes
- Departures from main UK/Ireland airports.
- International flights UK/Ireland - Delhi, Kathmandu - UK/Ireland*.more information
- Flights: Delhi - Kathmandu; Kathmandu - Paro; Paro - Kathmandu**.more information
- 16 nights accomodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.See hotels included
- 11 breakfasts and full board in Bhutan***.more information
- Transfers in air conditioned vehicle.
- Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary****.more informationSee itinerary
- All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
- Bhutan visa fee and daily government royalties and taxes.
- Private transfers in Delhi, airport-hotel-airport, with complimentary bottled water.
- ATOL Protection.
- English speaking guide.
- Rickshaw ride in Delhi. Hike to the Tiger's nest, the Taktsang Monastery.
- Jeep Transfer to the Amber Fort.
Not included
Indian and Nepalese visa (required)*, drinks, tips** and any other services not mentioned in what's included.
*If you are traveling to India with a UK passport, you will require an Indian visa. For other passport holders, we recommend that you check with the Indian Embassy for further details: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
If you are travelling to Nepal with a UK/Ireland passport, you will require a Nepalese visa. For other passport holders, we recommend that you check with the Nepalese Embassy for further details: https://www.immigration.gov.np/en/page/visa-on-arrival
**Note: We would like to remind you that tipping is not mandatory, but it is a common practice in the tourism industry. We recommend leaving tips of approximately 8 to 10 euros per day for tour guides, and 5 to 7 euros per day for drivers. Additionally, we suggest leaving a tip of 0.50 euros per suitcase for hotel staff to show your appreciation for their service.
*Due to the customs clearance rule of the government of India, if your flight stops at another city in India before arriving in Delhi, confirm at the departure desk in the UK/Ireland whether you should pick up your suitcase and pass customs control at the airport where the connection is made. Remember that if the flight stops in Mumbai you will need to pick up your luggage. Keep in mind that normally this whole process takes approximately 60 minutes.
**Documentation of the internal flights will be available in the "My bookings" section in your "Customer Area" 14 days before your trip. It is essential to fill in the passport information correctly for each passenger in the given boxes at the end of the reservations process.
About India:
***You have the possibility to upgrade to half-board in India by adding 6 dinners in the next step of the booking process.
****The order of the itinerary may differ depending on your arrival day at the destination.
Monday/Friday: 2 nights in Delhi at the beginning, 1 night in Delhi at the end.
Tuesday/Saturday: 1 night in Delhi at the beginning, 2 nights in Delhi at the end.
This is a fast-paced itinerary that includes a comprehensive number of sights and activities in order to give you the most complete experience of the Golden Triangle! You can expect several early morning departures and many driving miles during some days.
Note: We would like to inform you that some hotels may offer only vegetarian options for breakfast and dinner. This is a common practice in certain establishments and is part of the local culinary experience they provide. If you have any special dietary preferences, we recommend informing the hotel staff in advance so they can accommodate your needs accordingly.
About Bhutan:
Meals
**Breakfast and dinner will be served at the hotel, while lunch will be enjoyed at local restaurants.
Important information
This tour is generally easy, with the exception of the visit to the Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery) in Paro. Please note that reaching the monastery involves a challenging hike with approximately 700 steps down and 250 steps up, taking around 5-6 hours in total.
Visa
To obtain a Bhutan e-visa, we will need a clear, scanned color copy of your passport and a passport-sized photograph once your booking is confirmed. Please make sure the passport copy is in color, as a black and white copy will not be accepted. Additionally, ensure that your travel insurance covers Bhutan or is valid worldwide, as Bhutan will not issue an e-visa without travel insurance.
Tipping
Recommended tips range from £6 to £8 per person per day.
Entry requirements
Passport with a minimum of six months validity and at least two blank pages.
Visa
A visa is required to enter the country. Issued by the embassy or online E-Visa application one month before arrival in the country.
Currency
Indian Rupee.
Language
Hindi and English.
Electricity
220 V in the majority of the country. Electrical sockets are European style however an adapter may be useful.
Health
High levels of air pollution during winter (October to February). Northern cities are the most affected.
Time zone
GMT + 5:30.
Other useful information
Foreigners cannot bring Indian Rupees into the country, although you can bring foreign currency and exchange it once you arrive.
Tourist Office website
http://www.incredibleindia.org/
Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.
Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.
In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.
Tips in India are subject to the decision of the client based on the level of satisfaction of the service provided and the experience in general. Taking into account that they are not obligatory, they are usually expected.
If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +44 20 8068 3176 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.
While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office offer up-to-date travel advice by visiting https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
Room allocation: We will do our best to accommodate your family in the same room. If availability doesn't permit this, we guarantee your family will be accommodated as close together as possible. Children will always be accomodated in a room with at least 1 adult.
Car seats: Not available in all destinations. Feel free to take your own if you need one.
Pay in installments
Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.
Rest is paid in instalments according to your departure date.
Exoticca Travel Stories
Creating unforgettable memories, one traveller at a time
Subscribe to our newsletter and join Exoticca GO
The best travel deals
Exclusive promotions
Expert travel tips