How to Plan a Trip to India and Nepal: Best Time, Places & Itinerary

When planning a trip to India and Nepal, you probably have some questions in mind: What's the best time? How to combine the two countries? What to do in India and Nepal? By the time you finish reading this article, you'll have found the answers. Let's start and map out your India & Nepal tour!

Best Time to Visit India & Nepal

October to November

October to November is the best time to visit India and Nepal. In India, the monsoon season has just passed and the humidity has dropped, it's warm and comfortable during the day and cool at the night. In Nepal, the weather is sunny and dry with a pleasant temperature, which is very suitable for hiking and sightseeing. For those who enjoy trekking, this is the perfect time with the clearest view of the snow-capped mountains.

What is worth mentioning, during this time, you'll have chance to see the local festivals like India's Diwali and Nepal's Dashain. Both festivals hold great significance in the local culture. If your India and Nepal tour coincides with these celebrations, you can experience an unparalleled cultural atmosphere.

February to March

The best travel seasons often attract larger crowds. If you'd like to avoid the busiest periods, consider planning your India and Nepal combined trip between February and March. The weather is nice and suitable for most activities, and it's a fantastic alternative that comes a close second to autumn months. Especially in March, encountering India's grand Holi Festival will leave you with unforgettable memories filled with color and passion.

December to January

During this season, southern India remains relatively warm, while the northern regions, like Golden Triangle, can get cold in the mornings and evenings, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C. This kind of weather is generally less ideal for sightseeing and may affect your overall experience. The same applies to Nepal, where both Kathmandu and the mountain areas tend to be chilly during the early and late hours.

However, the lower prices and smaller crowds during this season make it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers or those not planning trekking activities.

April to September

The summer and monsoon seasons come during these months, particularly in India, where temperatures can soar up to 40°C. The intense heat and humidity can make any outdoor activity quite challenging.

The period from July to September typically brings the monsoon rains. The constant rain and high humidity don't just make sightseeing unpleasant, they can also lead to poor road conditions and disrupt your schedule. Additionally, some activities and destinations, such as Ranthambore National Park, may be closed during this time.

How Many Days to Spend

10 - 12 Days

Generally, 10 to 12 days itinerary allows you to cover the most iconic sights in both India and Nepal, such as India's Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) and Nepal's Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara.

14 Days

If you prefer a slower pace and a more relaxed experience, we recommend 14 days. In addition to the classic highlights, this longer stay lets you explore an extra city in India like Varanasi, or spend more time in Nepal, perhaps enjoying a short scenic trek in Pokhara or a wildlife safari in Chitwan for a more immersive experience.

16 - 18 Days

16 - 18 days is suitable for those seeking a more in-depth cultural journey, this makes it possible to venture further into India's Rajasthan, visiting cities like Jodhpur, Udaipur, or Jaisalmer. Or to take more extensive treks in Nepal such as the classic Poon Hill route, or even make a pilgrimage to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.

No matter how long you plan to travel, we can tailor the journey accordingly. You're welcome to leave the planning to us, just let us know what captures your interest via [email protected].

Travel Between India & Nepal

Travel between India and Nepal is easy and convenient, the most common way is by flight and there are direct flights between Delhi (DEL) and Kathmandu (KTM), which takes about 1.5 hours. You can also choose to fly to Kathmandu from other cities in India, such as Mumbai, Bangalore.

As a more scenic (and time-saving) option, there's an incredible bonus to flying: when on a flight from Delhi to Kathmandu, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountain range. Remember to try selecting a window seat on the right-side during check-in for the best experience.

Top Places to See in India & Nepal

In India

Delhi

It's a place where you can trace the ancient carvings of thousand-year-old pagodas and feel the thrill of sipping a sweet, spicy chai in a bustling market. It may be chaotic, complex, and even overwhelming at times, and it's such incredible contrast creates the unique magic of this capital city. Through Delhi, you can understand India's past, present, and future, which makes it an essential stop on any journey to India.

Agra

No trip to India is complete without a visit to Agra, home to the must-see Taj Mahal. This magnificent white marble monument, a timeless symbol of love, looks particularly breathtaking under the shifting light of sunrise or sunset. If time permits, you can add a local cooking class to your Agra itinerary, it's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the culture and flavors of India.

Jaipur

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur radiates undeniable charm. Its palaces, forts, and bustling bazaars all offer a vibrant and exotic beauty. Located in Rajasthan, the city also serves as a gateway to royal heritage, desert landscapes, and a culture rich in color and tradition. The Amber Fort, City Palace and Hawa Mahal, all offer countless photogenic angles, ensuring your photos stand out on social media.

Jaipur Hawa Mahal

Varanasi

As one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Varanasi attracts countless visitors each year who are drawn to its history, culture, and spiritual significance. Here, you can witness the Ganga Aarti Ceremony and observe daily religious rituals along the Ganges, offering a profoundly moving and cleansing experience for the spirit.

In Nepal

Kathmandu

Kathmandu expresses its vitality through a symphony of sounds: the hum of electric scooters, the calls of crows and pigeons, the chimes from ancient temples, and the lively chatter of street vendors. Here, you can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Durbar Square and Boudhanath Stupa, feeling the spiritual energy of the city while savoring traditional Newari cuisine.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) in Kathmandu

Chitwan

Away from the urban bustle, Chitwan welcomes you with fresh air and lush lowland forests. Here, humans and nature coexist in harmony, you can experience a different kind of adventure - wildlife encounters that offer a unique alternative to popular trekking activities. You can join a safari to spot rhinos, crocodiles, and even the elusive Bengal tiger. As the sun sets, people packed together in their vehicle and chase the golden light in search of wildlife, the atmosphere is absolutely immersive.

Chitwan Jungle Walk

Pokhara
Nestled beside a serene lake and surrounded by the Annapurna range, Pokhara is the natural paradise of Nepal. It's the perfect place for those who seeking outdoor activities such as boating and paragliding, and one can simply relaxing with stunning Himalayan views before setting off on a trek.

Sarangkot Sunrise View in Pokhara

Sample Itinerary for India & Nepal Tour

Most people begin their India and Nepal combined trip in India, getting a real feel for its rich cultural treasures and vibrant energy. Afterwards, they unwind in Nepal's tranquil mountain atmosphere, enjoying scenic beauty and a slower pace. This classic route offers the perfect blend of discovery and relaxation.

11-Day Itinerary for India & Nepal

Day	Country	Highlights	Overnight
1 - 2	India	Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Qutub Minar	Delhi
3 - 4		Taj Mahal, Agra Fort	Agra
5 - 6		Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, City Palace Museum	Jaipur
7 - 8	Nepal	Durbar Square, Kumari Temple, Patan city tour	Kathmandu
9 - 10		Changu Narayan Temple, Himalayan Views	Nagarkot
11		Kathmandu departure	-

We are experienced in creating customized South Asia tours, and recommend using the same tour service provider for all your destinations to ensure a carefree multi-country experience.

Travel Tips for an India & Nepal Tour

Prepare for Visa Applications

Be sure to apply for the Indian e-Tourist Visas, Although Nepal offers visa on arrival, it's recommended to apply for the Online Landing Visa in advance through the official website to save time and avoid long queues.

Health & Safety

Avoid raw foods and only drink bottled water.

Dress Modestly

It's recommended wearing conservatively, and avoid overly revealing clothing. When entering religious sites (temples, mosques), ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. For women, carrying a large scarf or shawl is highly practical.

Left Hand Taboo

In both Indian and Nepali culture, the left hand is considered unclean. Avoid using it to pass or receive objects, eat, or make physical contact. Always use your right hand for meals, offering money, or giving tips.