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Arriving in North India, you step into the history and mystery of a land whose culture goes back thousands of years. With a potent blend of the stunning and the sacred, the experience will stimulate your senses and touch your soul. This trip offers you the opportunity to experience authentic India, while staying at some of the finest heritage hotels in this rich and varied land.
Begin in Delhi and experience the spectacular Golden Triangle – Delhi, Jaipur and Agra – but throw in a must-see visit to Varanasi, and this trip is a perfect introduction to this rapturous country. See Jaipur, the Pink City, and witness the town’s amazing transformation at sunset. Experience the grandeur and perfection of the Taj Mahal. Honor sacred life on the Ganges River at Varanasi, India’s spiritual capital. Trace Buddhism back to its roots at Sarnath where Gautama Buddha learned and shared his teachings. Travel through time as you witness time-honored silk production techniques and attend an Aarti ceremony, in which lamps are lit in devotion to the deities . This is a journey not to be missed!
Highlights:
| Day | Description | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Delhi | Delhi |
| Day 2 | Delhi to Jaipur | Jaipur |
| Day 3 | Explore Jaipur | Jaipur |
| Day 4 | Drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri | Agra |
| Day 5 | Agra to Delhi | Delhi |
| Day 6 | Delhi to Varanasi | Varanasi |
| Day 7 | Saranath to Delhi | Delhi |
| Day 8 | Final departure |
Welcome to Delhi, the capital city of India. Enjoy your free afternoon to explore. (No meals).
Overnight: Deluxe – Taj Palace or similar; Standard – The Hans
In the morning we’ll make our way by train towards Jaipur, the fascinating “Pink City.” Jaipur is surrounded on all sides by rugged hills, crowned with forts & enclosed by embattled walls. it thrills travelers with its massive forts, magnificent palaces, exquisite temples and lush gardens. We’ll explore the magnificent City Palace complex with its many museums containing an impressive collection of miniature paintings, costumes and armory; the unique Jantar Mantar (Observatory) built by the astronomer king, Maharaja Jai Singh II, and the Palace of the Wind with its intriguing façade. Houses with latticed windows line the streets with their rose pink color making Jaipur at sunset a sight to behold. (Breakfast)
Overnight: Deluxe – Jai Mahal Palace; Standard – Aissar Haveli
This morning, we’ll travel a short distance to the Amber Palace. Amber was the ancient capital of Jaipur, and construction of the fort began in 1592. It is a superb example of Rajput architecture. Elephant ride from the foothills of the Aravallis to the fort entrance. After lunch, enjoy the afternoon to explore the magical Old City of Jaipur on your own. (Breakfast)
Overnight: Deluxe – Jai Mahal Palace; Standard – Aissar Haveli
Departing for Agra, we will stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted, red Sandstone City that Emperor Akbar built as his capital and palace in the late 16th century. It a veritable fairytale city and its “ruins” are in pristine condition, making it easy to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur. Also visit the Buland Darwaza, the largest gateway in the world. In the evening we’ll make our way towards Agra, site of the majestic Taj Mahal. (Breakfast)
Overnight: Deluxe – The Gateway; Standard – Utkarsh Vilas
Badal Singh established the city of Taj, now Agra, in 1475. Today whatever remains, has become a major tourist attraction, which has taken Agra again to the heights of glory but this time as the major tourist destination of India. We will visit the inexpressible Taj Mahal, a pristine white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his deceased wife. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, it took 20,000 workers from neighboring Islamic countries, 22 years of ceaseless toil to create this exquisite white marble monument upon which people have waxed eloquent throughout the world. Lord Curzon says of it, “Without flaw or blemish, the most perfect structure in the world.” We’ll spend the day exploring the perfection of this World Heritage Site, and depart in the evening for a quick overnight in Delhi. (Breakfast)
Overnight: Deluxe – Taj Palace or similar; Standard – The Hans
Overnight: Deluxe – The Gateway; Standard – Ganges View
Early morning a serene experience begins as we take a sunrise cruise on the River Ganges, a sensory experience that words can not describe. We will then travel a short distance to Sarnath, the place where Buddha chose to deliver his first sermon and one of the most venerated Buddhist sites in the world. There are Buddha relics and also a vast expanse of ancient ruins at Sarnath. Several Buddhist structures were raised at Sarnath between the 3rd century BC and the 11th century AD, and today it presents the most expansive ruins amongst places on the Buddhist trail. This afternoon, we’ll fly to Delhi. (Breakfast)
Overnight: Deluxe – Taj Palace or similar; Standard – The Hans
A major cultural, political and commercial center of India, Delhi is the capital city of India. Thriving, bustling and chaotic, it never ceases to excite. We’ll visit some of Delhi’s highlights including Red Fort, once the most opulent fort and palace of the Moghul Empire and Jama Masjid, the government headquarters. In the afternoon, we’ll visit one of India’s most revered fabric shops and leave some time for last minute shopping before we say goodbye to North India. (Breakfast)
Per person price valid until Dec 31, 2020
Deluxe accommodations (5 star and boutique hotels):
2 to 3 people: $4,000 USD per person
4 or more: $3,600 USD per person
Single Supplement: $1,250 USD
Standard accommodations (3 and 4 star hotels):
2 to 3 people: $3,100 USD per person
4 or more: $2,790 USD per person
Single Supplement: $850 USD
(Final prices may vary depending on hotels selected/available. A December and January peak season surcharge may apply)
We are happy to customize your tour. This trip can be organized according to your convenience and can be combined with one of our other India tours:
We can also combine this tour with any trip to Nepal and/or Bhutan. Write to us for more details.
Activity: Lodge Trek
Destination: Everest
Country: Nepal
The Gokyo Lakes trek is a great alternative for those who wish to avoid the popular (and busy) trail to Everest Base Camp. Moreover, the views from Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft.) and Renjo La pass (5,465m /17,930ft) are arguably better than those from Kalapathar. A little above Namche, the trail to Gokyo splits from the trail to the Everest Base Camp. Head North, following the Dudh Koshi river to its source near the Ngozumpa glacier. Trekking to the Gokyo Lakes allows you to enjoy views of giants such as Everest, Cho-Oyu, Makalu, Pumori, Amadablam, Thamserku, Tarboche, Cholatse etc.
From Namche, head north west following the Dudh Koshi river to its source near the Gokyo Lakes. The Gokyo Lakes trek culminates at Gokyo on the banks of the third lake. Here, we will spend three nights exploring the area. On our second day at Gokyo, hike to either Gokyo Ri or Renjo La pass for views of the lakes and the mountains (see photo above). On the third day, hike to the 5th lakes for up-close views of Cho Oyu and other mountains.
It is possible to combine trekking to the Gokyo Lake with the Everest Base Camp trek. Check out our 19-day Everest Base Camp Trek or the 15-day Everest Base Camp – fast paced trek. Also, if you have more time and wish to be more adventurous, check out the Ultimate Everest Trek. This involves crossing two passes: the Cho La pass (Everest Base Camp to Gokyo lake) and the Renjo La pass (from Gokyo lake to Thame). Furthermore, an even more physically challenging trek is the Everest Three Passes Trek. No climbing skills are required for these treks. We are also happy to customize any of these treks for you. Click on the options tab to check out more options.
The Gokyo Lakes Trek is a lodge trek. This means you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The quality of the lodges on this trek are quite comparable to those on the Everest Base Camp Trek. And quite a few of them have en suite rooms with hot showers. Meals are also quite varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on Everest treks.
Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the trekking to the Gokyo Lakes are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November). It is also possible to do this trek in Winter months of December, January and February if you do not intend to cross the passes. While it will obviously be very cold (upto -20 C/, -4 F), it will be less crowded and there aren’t as many trekkers in the area.
The Gokyo Lakes trek is rated “STRENUOUS”. It is rated 4 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). While the highest altitude reached is at Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), the highest overnight elevation is at Gokyo Lakes (4,750m/15,500 feet) which is much lower than on the Everest Base Camp Trek. Average daily hiking times is 5 to 6 hours with one long day of around 7 hours on the day hike to the 5th lakes. It is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.
All our Gokyo Lakes Treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants for a date of your choosing. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff.
We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…
Activity: Trekking
Destination: Makalu
Country: Nepal
On the Makalu Base Camp trek, participants get up-close with the fifth highest mountain in the world – Mt. Makalu (8,485m). Eric Shipton was the first outsider to have trekked in the region in the 1950’s. Consequently, the Shipton Pass on this trek was named after this English explorer. Makalu trekking starts at a relatively lower elevation which is home to Rai’s, Gurung’s and Tamang people. Ascending slowly, the trek follows a trail through the beautiful Makalu Barun National Park which is home to diverse flora and fauna. Continue to trek past the Barun river are the spectacular granite rocks and waterfalls. Finally, the villages near the Makalu Base Camp are home to the Sherpas.
The Makalu Base Camp trek is quickly emerging as a popular trekking destination especially among trekkers who prefer solitude. Trekking to Makalu is a great alternative to the more busier treks in the Everest and Annapurna region. And with daily flights available to Tumlingtar, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is also quite easily accessible. It has all the makings of an epic Himalayan trek including stunning snow-clad mountain scenery, high passes, intriguing mix of Nepal’s culture and soaring Himalayan peaks.
The journey begins with a 35-minute flight to Tumlingtar from where we drive to the road-head on a chartered vehicle. The lower parts of the Makalu region are quite hot and humid with lush rhododendron and oak forests, cardamom plantations. Ascend slowly over several passes following the Barun river valley to the Makalu Base Camp. Return to Tumlingtar is along the same trail but vistas are quite spectacular in both directions.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a lodge trek. This means you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The lodges on this trek are quite basic. Meals are not as varied as on the Everest or the Annapurna treks but options do include rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. On this trek, we will carry some food to supplement what’s available at the local lodges. Furthermore, we will also carry tents so you may opt to sleep in tents in some of the places.
Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the Makalu Base Camp trek are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November). It is also possible to trek to Makalu Base Camp in December but obviously it will be very cold with temperatures dipping to -20 C/, -4 F or slightly lower.
The Makalu Base Camp trek is rated “CHALLENGING”. It is rated 5 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The highest overnight altitude reached is at Makalu Base Camp (4,800 m/15,750ft) and the highest elevation reached is at the view point above base camp (5,300m/17,400 feet). There are two acclimatization days to allow for proper acclimatization. Trekking to Makalu involves average daily hiking or around 6 hours with a few longer days of around 7-8 hours. Also, this is a relatively long trek in a remote area. Regardless of the rating, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a private trek for a minimum of two participants. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. With over 30 years of experience, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We employ the most professional and friendly staff. We are also proud to give back to our community through our giving arm – 3 Summits For Nepal – managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…
