Touch down in Kolkata, where the warm air of eastern India greets you the moment you step off the aircraft. After completing arrival formalities, you will be met by our representative and transferred in comfort to your hotel in the city. Once checked in, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind, recover from your journey, and soak in the first impressions of this extraordinary destination.

One of the great cities of India, Kolkata was founded as a vital trading hub of the East India Company and later rose to prominence as the capital of the British Raj. Today, the city remains a proud bastion of Bengali culture, combining colonial-era grandeur with a thriving artistic and literary scene. It is resplendent with monuments, stately churches, intricately carved temples, and some of India’s most engaging museums, offering visitors a rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and creativity.

Whether you choose to take a gentle evening stroll, sip a cup of Darjeeling tea in a local café, or simply relax at your hotel, this first evening in Kolkata is the perfect introduction to the city’s unique charm and heritage.

After breakfast, set out with your expert local guide to discover the many layers of Kolkata, a city where colonial elegance blends seamlessly with vibrant street life. Your exploration begins with a journey through the city’s colonial architecture, a legacy of the British Raj that still graces grand boulevards and historic districts with its stately facades and imposing structures.

Stroll across the expansive Maidan, Kolkata’s sprawling green heart, and marvel at the magnificent Victoria Memorial, an opulent white-marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria. Surrounded by manicured gardens, its galleries house fascinating artefacts from India’s colonial era, offering a glimpse into the city’s imperial past.

Continue to the bustling, colourful riverside flower market, a feast for the senses where fragrant marigolds and roses spill over in vibrant piles, and traders call out their prices against the backdrop of the iconic Howrah Bridge. This cantilever bridge, a marvel of engineering, is one of the most recognisable landmarks in India and a lifeline for the city’s daily commuters.

Your day’s journey also takes you to the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in Asia. Its extensive collections span everything from ancient sculptures and rare manuscripts to natural history exhibits, providing a deep dive into the subcontinent’s diverse heritage.

By day’s end, you will have experienced the essence of Kolkata—its grandeur, its colours, and its cultural depth—before returning to your hotel to relax and reflect on the city’s remarkable contrasts.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kolkata Airport in good time for your flight to Jorhat, a charming town in the heart of Assam that remains one of the region’s most important centres for tea growing and processing. As your plane descends over emerald-green plantations and winding rivers, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the lush landscapes that define this unique corner of India.

On arrival, a short drive will take you beyond the bustle of the town to Thengal Manor, a beautifully preserved 1920s heritage property. With its colonial architecture, sprawling verandas, and serene gardens, this boutique retreat offers a step back in time to an era of refined Assamese hospitality. Its intimate charm and tranquil setting make it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside.

During your stay here, you will have the opportunity to visit the nearby Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, one of India’s few protected areas dedicated to primates, home to the endangered Hoolock gibbon as well as a variety of other wildlife and exotic bird species. The combination of history, nature, and tea-scented breezes ensures that your introduction to Assam is both immersive and unforgettable.

This morning, set out to explore the Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, a protected swathe of lush evergreen forest that holds a unique place in India’s wildlife heritage. This remarkable reserve is the only place in the country where you can encounter the Hoolock gibbon—India’s sole species of ape—swinging gracefully through the upper reaches of the jungle canopy.

Native to northeast India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and parts of southwest China, the endangered hoolock gibbon is instantly recognisable for its expressive face, striking markings, and the loud, melodious calls that echo across the forest in the early morning. Watching these agile primates brachiate effortlessly between towering trees is a truly unforgettable experience.

The sanctuary is also home to the elusive Bengal slow loris, Asian elephants, and leopards, as well as an impressive diversity of primates including four species of macaque and langur. Birdlife flourishes here too, with the dense canopy sheltering vibrant species that flash like jewels in the dappled light.

As you walk along the forest trails accompanied by your naturalist guide, the air is filled with the heady scent of damp earth and the chorus of cicadas, punctuated by the occasional whoop of a gibbon. This intimate encounter with one of India’s rarest and most charismatic creatures is sure to be a highlight of your journey through Assam.

This morning, bid farewell to Jorhat and embark on a scenic drive of approximately 120 kilometres, following the course of the mighty Brahmaputra River southwards. As the road winds through rural Assam, you’ll pass emerald tea gardens, quaint villages, and swaying paddy fields, offering glimpses of daily life in this fertile river valley.

Your destination is the legendary Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s finest wildlife reserves. Famed for its thriving population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, the park is a mosaic of tall elephant grass, swampy lagoons, and dense tropical forest, all set against the backdrop of the distant Karbi Anglong Hills.

On arrival, check into your lodge for a three-night stay, immersing yourself in an atmosphere where the rhythms of nature set the pace. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the lodge’s serene surroundings, perhaps with an evening stroll to watch the sunset gild the landscape in soft golden light, heralding your upcoming adventures in the wild.

Wake early to the sounds of the forest as you begin your first full day exploring the extraordinary Kaziranga National Park, whose lush grasslands stretch along the banks of the Brahmaputra River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for harbouring an astonishing two-thirds of the world’s population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. With its tall elephant grass, marshy wetlands, and scattered forests, the park offers an ideal habitat for these prehistoric-looking giants.

This morning, set out on a thrilling jeep safari in the company of an experienced naturalist, venturing deep into one of the park’s zones. Keep your eyes peeled for rhinos grazing in the misty grasslands, herds of Asian elephants moving in close-knit family groups, and the possibility of spotting the elusive Royal Bengal tiger as it prowls through the reeds.

Return to your lodge for lunch and a short rest before heading out again for an afternoon safari in a different area of the park. The shifting light of late afternoon bathes the landscape in a warm glow, offering superb opportunities for photography. By evening, return to your lodge to share stories of the day’s sightings over dinner, with the night sounds of Kaziranga as your backdrop.

Another dawn, another chance to delve into the wild beauty of Kaziranga. Today you will explore yet more of the park’s diverse habitats, each revealing new aspects of its thriving ecosystem. The early morning mist often hangs low over the grasslands, creating a magical atmosphere as wildlife stirs into action.

Your morning safari may reveal new species—perhaps a stately swamp deer, a troop of playful langurs, or a rare sighting of a serpent eagle perched high in the treetops. The park’s wetlands are also a haven for migratory and resident birds, making this a paradise for birdwatchers.

After lunch and a brief respite at your lodge, head out for your final afternoon safari in Kaziranga. With your naturalist guide interpreting the sights and sounds of the forest, every turn of the track offers the chance of a memorable wildlife encounter. As the sun sets over the Brahmaputra floodplains, bid farewell to the park’s remarkable inhabitants, knowing you’ve experienced one of India’s most iconic wildlife sanctuaries in depth.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the wild beauty of Kaziranga National Park as you are met by your driver for the journey to Guwahati Airport. The scenic drive offers a last glimpse of Assam’s verdant countryside—tea plantations, rural hamlets, and the occasional view of the mighty Brahmaputra River flowing steadily towards the sea.

From Guwahati, board your flight to Bagdogra, the main air gateway to the Eastern Himalayas. Upon arrival, a short road transfer of approximately 20 kilometres brings you to the bustling town of Siliguri, a vital junction for travellers heading towards Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan.

Check into your hotel for an overnight stay, with the remainder of the day at leisure. You might choose to relax and unwind after your travels, or take a gentle stroll to soak up the lively atmosphere of Siliguri’s streets before continuing your journey deeper into the hills tomorrow.

This morning, depart Siliguri and make your way towards the Indo-Nepal border. After completing the necessary immigration formalities, cross into Nepal and continue your journey through winding mountain roads, terraced hillsides, and remote rural villages to reach Kaiakata, approximately 110 kilometres away.

Your destination is Habre’s Nest, a truly unique research hub and wildlife guesthouse founded with the mission of conserving and studying the elusive red panda. Nestled in pristine Himalayan forests, this intimate lodge sits within prime red panda habitat and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks on clear days.

Run by passionate wildlife enthusiasts, Habre’s Nest provides simple yet welcoming accommodation, with every effort focused on protecting the delicate ecosystem that surrounds it. Staying here offers not just a chance to explore one of the subcontinent’s most remote and isolated regions, but also an opportunity to actively support ongoing conservation efforts for one of the world’s rarest and most endearing mammals.

Wake to the crisp, pine-scented air of the high Himalayas and prepare for your first full day of exploration around Habre’s Nest. Accompanied by skilled trackers and naturalists, venture into the surrounding forests—prime red panda habitat—where bamboo thickets and moss-laden trees provide perfect cover for these rare and beautiful creatures. Spotting one in the wild is a magical experience, the flash of russet fur and distinctive facial markings a reward for patience and quiet observation.

Beyond the red panda, this remote Himalayan jungle is home to a wealth of other wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive clouded leopard and panther, as well as the Himalayan black bear. The area is also alive with smaller, equally fascinating creatures, from the gliding flying squirrel to the rare false cobra and Himalayan salamander. Between wildlife encounters, take time to enjoy the breathtaking mountain vistas, where ridgelines dissolve into the clouds and prayer flags flutter in the wind.

Today offers another opportunity to immerse yourself in the biodiversity of this extraordinary region, with a special focus on its world-class birdlife. More than 300 species have been recorded in the forests surrounding Habre’s Nest, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Listen for the melodic calls of laughingthrushes, scan the canopy for brightly coloured sunbirds, and watch for raptors soaring over the valleys in the morning thermals.

Your expert guides will help identify the many species you encounter, from tiny warblers flitting through the undergrowth to the regal Himalayan monal—the national bird of Nepal—with its dazzling iridescent plumage. Whether you are an avid birder or simply enjoy being surrounded by nature’s soundtrack, today’s experience will deepen your appreciation for the delicate balance of this high-altitude ecosystem.

As the day winds down, return to the comfort of the lodge for warm hospitality and the camaraderie of fellow wildlife enthusiasts, sharing stories of the day’s most memorable sightings under a sky ablaze with stars.

With another day in this pristine Himalayan wilderness, you have further opportunities to explore deeper into the forests and ridgelines surrounding Habre’s Nest. Today’s treks may take you into quieter, less-disturbed areas where wildlife sightings are often at their most rewarding. Your trackers will be listening for subtle clues—the rustle of leaves, the call of alarm from a bird—that may signal the presence of the elusive red panda or other rare mammals.

Along the way, the landscape itself captivates—ancient trees draped with moss, crystal-clear mountain streams, and distant snow peaks glowing under the Himalayan sun. While the red panda remains the star of the show, you may also encounter flying squirrels gliding between trees at dusk, or spot the tracks of a Himalayan black bear pressed into the soft earth. Each step here is a reminder of how remote and unspoilt this ecosystem remains.

On your final day at Habre’s Nest, there is one more chance to savour the tranquillity and raw beauty of this remarkable location. Rise early for a last walk into the mist-shrouded forest, where the cool air carries the scent of damp earth and wildflowers, and the calls of Himalayan birds echo through the canopy. If luck is on your side, you might catch a farewell glimpse of a red panda moving gracefully among the branches—an image that will stay with you long after you leave.

Spend the rest of the day at a gentler pace, perhaps joining your hosts to learn more about the lodge’s ongoing conservation projects and the challenges of protecting wildlife in such a remote region. This is also the perfect time to simply sit back, take in the sweeping mountain views, and reflect on your days in one of the subcontinent’s most secluded and biodiverse corners.

As evening falls and the high Himalayas are bathed in the golden glow of sunset, bid a fond farewell to Kaiakata—a rare and precious sanctuary for both wildlife and the human spirit.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the remote wilderness of Kaiakata and transfer approximately 90 kilometres to Bhadrapur Airport. Here, you’ll board your flight to Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal and the cultural heart of the Himalayas. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

This afternoon, set out on a guided walking tour through the atmospheric old city, where narrow lanes are lined with traditional Newari architecture, intricately carved wooden windows, and hidden courtyards. Your exploration will take you to Durbar Square, the city’s historic centre and home to a stunning collection of palaces, temples, and statues that reflect centuries of craftsmanship and devotion.

Continue to the sacred Swayambhunath Stupa, perched on a hill overlooking the city. Known affectionately as the “Monkey Temple,” this 2,500-year-old site is Nepal’s oldest and most important centre of Buddhist worship. Here, prayer flags flutter in the breeze, the all-seeing eyes of Buddha gaze out from the gilded stupa, and the panoramic views over the Kathmandu Valley are simply breathtaking—a fitting introduction to the city’s spiritual and cultural soul.

Rise early this morning for a journey into the spiritual heart of the Kathmandu Valley, beginning with a visit to the revered Pashupatinath Temple. Situated along the banks of the sacred Bagmati River, this vast temple complex is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Nepal’s Hindu population. Here, saffron-robed sadhus, intricately carved pagodas, and the poignant rituals of open-air cremations combine to create an atmosphere of deep devotion and cultural significance.

From Pashupatinath, continue to the magnificent Bodhnath Stupa, one of the largest in the world and the spiritual centre for Nepal’s Tibetan Buddhist community. Its immense white dome, crowned with the serene all-seeing eyes of Buddha, is encircled by prayer wheels and colourful prayer flags that ripple in the mountain breeze. Walking clockwise around the stupa alongside monks and pilgrims is a deeply moving experience.

Later, travel beyond the city to the ancient settlement of Patan, also known as Lalitpur—the “City of Beauty.” Renowned as the artistic and architectural hub of the valley, Patan’s central square is adorned with an extraordinary concentration of fine monasteries, intricately carved temples, and palace courtyards that showcase the mastery of Newari craftsmanship. As you wander its brick-paved lanes, you’ll encounter artisans at work, traditional markets, and centuries-old structures that speak to the city’s rich heritage.

This morning, continue your discovery of the Kathmandu Valley with a visit to the revered Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal. Dating back more than 1,500 years, it is perched high on a hilltop, offering sweeping views across the valley and the distant Himalayas. The temple is famed for its exquisite stone, wood, and metal carvings, which depict deities, mythical beasts, and legendary tales from the Hindu epics.

From Changu Narayan, travel to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, which served as the capital of the Kathmandu Valley between the 14th and 16th centuries. A living museum of traditional Newari culture, Bhaktapur is renowned for its stunning architecture, brick-paved streets, and vibrant artisans’ workshops. Highlights here include the towering Nyatapola Temple, the tallest temple in Nepal, with its graceful five-tiered structure, and the beautifully preserved Durbar Square, where palaces, courtyards, and intricate woodwork reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.

As you wander Bhaktapur’s atmospheric lanes, past potters shaping clay on traditional wheels and stalls piled high with local produce, you’ll feel transported back in time to an era when craftsmanship and devotion shaped the very fabric of daily life.

After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu Airport for your short flight to Bharatpur, the gateway to Nepal’s lowland jungles and the Chitwan National Park region. On arrival, you will be met and driven to Sauraha, a lively village on the park’s edge known for its warm hospitality and as a base for exploring the wildlife-rich Terai plains.

The journey from Bharatpur to Sauraha offers glimpses of rural life—bustling roadside markets, lush paddy fields, and colourful houses adorned with traditional motifs. On reaching your lodge, check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing in the serene surroundings or taking a gentle walk along the Rapti River, where sunsets paint the horizon in shades of gold and crimson.

Wake early to the sounds of the jungle as you begin a day of exploration in Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Asia’s finest wildlife reserves. Spanning dense sal forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats, the park is home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife, including the rare one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and a wealth of birdlife.

Your activities today may include a thrilling jeep safari deep into the park’s wilderness, where you can spot rhinos grazing in the tall grass, deer moving quietly through the undergrowth, and crocodiles basking along the riverbanks. The park’s wetlands are also a paradise for birdwatchers, with species such as hornbills, kingfishers, and eagles soaring overhead.

Between safaris, enjoy time at your lodge or venture out on guided nature walks to learn about the region’s unique flora and fauna from expert naturalists. As evening falls, gather for a cultural programme showcasing the vibrant traditions of the local Tharu community, whose lives have been intertwined with this landscape for generations.

After breakfast, transfer to Bharatpur Airport for your short but scenic flight to Pokhara, Nepal’s serene lakeside city and gateway to the Annapurna Himalayas. As the aircraft soars over the fertile Terai plains and into the foothills, keep your camera ready for breathtaking aerial views of snow-capped peaks piercing the sky.

On arrival in Pokhara, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, with the remainder of the day at leisure to relax or begin exploring this charming city. You might choose to take a peaceful stroll along the shores of Phewa Lake, browse the cafés and boutiques of Lakeside, or simply sit back and enjoy the sight of the Annapurna range reflected in the water—a picture-perfect welcome to Pokhara.

Today, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural charm of Pokhara, often described as Nepal’s most picturesque city. Framed by the towering Annapurna range and set beside tranquil Phewa Lake, Pokhara offers a harmonious blend of scenic splendour and fascinating heritage.

Your sightseeing begins with a visit to the Bindhyabasini Temple, perched on a small hill and dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, offering sweeping views over the city and surrounding mountains. Continue to the Davis Falls, where the waters of the Pardi Khola vanish into an underground tunnel, and the nearby Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, a sacred cavern housing a revered Shiva lingam.

Stroll through the vibrant Old Bazaar, where traditional architecture and lively market stalls provide a glimpse into Pokhara’s past, before heading to the World Peace Pagoda. This gleaming white stupa, set high on a ridge, commands panoramic views of the lake and the majestic Himalayas—a perfect spot for quiet reflection.

Later, enjoy a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake, gliding across its mirror-like surface towards the Tal Barahi Temple, located on a small island at the lake’s centre. As the day draws to a close, watch the golden light of sunset wash over the peaks, a fitting finale to your exploration of Pokhara.

Today is yours to enjoy Pokhara at your own pace, taking in its serene lakeside charm and breathtaking Himalayan backdrop. You may wish to begin your morning with a gentle stroll along Phewa Lake, where the still waters reflect the snow-clad peaks of the Annapurna range and colourful wooden boats glide by.

For those seeking relaxation, unwind at your hotel or find a lakeside café to savour a coffee while watching the world go by. If you prefer to explore further, optional activities are available, from visiting nearby villages to taking short hikes that reveal stunning viewpoints over the city and mountains.

As the day draws to a close, soak up the tranquil atmosphere of this beautiful lakeside retreat, perhaps enjoying a final boat ride or simply watching the sun dip behind the hills, casting a warm glow over Pokhara’s peaceful landscape.

After breakfast, transfer to Pokhara Airport for your short and scenic flight back to Kathmandu. As you ascend over the Pokhara Valley, look back for one last glimpse of the Annapurna range rising sharply above the rolling hills, a breathtaking farewell to Nepal’s lake city.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or enjoy some last-minute shopping in the city’s bustling markets, where handicrafts, pashminas, and jewellery make perfect mementoes of your journey. Alternatively, take a final wander through Kathmandu’s old quarters, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere before your adventure draws to a close.

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some final moments in Kathmandu—perhaps a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets, a last cup of Nepali tea, or a quiet visit to a local temple to reflect on your journey.

At the agreed time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. As you take off over the Kathmandu Valley and glimpse the Himalayas one last time, carry with you the unforgettable memories of Nepal’s landscapes, wildlife, heritage, and warm-hearted people.