India Wildlife Tour

Day 01: - Arrive Delhi
Arrive at Delhi International Airport.

Varanasi Boat Ride

Delhi : A bustling metropolis and a city of 14 million inhabitants, is also India's capital. A near perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, Delhi, consisting two parts Old & New Delhi, is a city with something for everyone. From Forts and monuments that are almost 500 years old, to modern shopping malls, nightclubs and golf courses, Delhi truly is India's crown jewel.

Upon clearing Customs and Immigration, you are met by our representative who will present you with a welcome pack including all necessary documentation and arrange your transfer to the Claridges hotel for check-in. No activity is scheduled today, since most of the International flights arrive into India close to midnight only.

The Claridges : Located in the heart of the city, The Claridges has been a landmark in Lutyens Delhi since the 1950's. Set on 3 acres of land, the hotel is a low-rise building with only three floors. It is within close proximity of the business district, ministries, diplomatic missions, shopping & cultural centers and historical landmarks. The Hotel's facilities include a Swimming Pool, Health Club and several Bars and Resautants .

For the ultimate in luxury, you could choose to upgrade to The Imperial :- The Imperial Hotel, one of Delhi's best known luxury Hotels is also one of the oldest hotels in Delhi .Built in 1933, it has a somewhat unconventional style & design; a mixture of Victorian and old colonial with a playful dosage of art deco. The hotel, which is centrally located on Janpath, is set in beautiful gardens and its facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a shopping arcade, permanent in-house art galleries and a variety of restaurants.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Delhi
This morning you are collected from your hotel for full day tour of Old and New Delhi.

The tour of the 17th-century old city includes the great mosque of Jama Masjid, The main street of Old Delhi is the colorful shopping bazaar known as Chandni Chowk ("Moonlit Street"). Drive past Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi.

The tour of New Delhi includes the Humayun's Tomb, the precursor of the Taj Mahal. Drive down the spectacular Rajpath ("the Kingsway,") passing the India Gate (the memorial built to commemorate the unknown soldiers,) the President's House, and the House of Parliament. Enjoy a brief respite from the otherwise bustling city at Birla Mandir, a modern and colourful Hindu temple.

Evening at leisure to perhaps venture out and discover the city or its many restaurants on your own. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Delhi - Agra
This morning you drive to Agra (220kms/4 hrs.).

Agra Fort

Agra : "The Land of Taj" was once the capital of the Mughal Empire and even today it seems to linger in the past. Not surprising, for the Mughal emperors with their passion for building, endowed the city with some of the finest structures in the world. Agra is an old city and it is said that its name was derived from Agrabana, a forest that's finds mention in the epic Mahabharata. In more recent times Agra came into prominence when Sikandar Lodi made it his capital city in 1501. Later it passed into the possession of the Mughals. It was during the time of the third emperor "Akbar" that Agra came into its own and later on his grandson "Shah Jehan" ornamented the city with that masterpiece of Mughal architecture - The Taj Mahal.

Upon arrival check in at the Trident.

Trident : The Trident Agra, is set amidst beautiful gardens and is only a few minutes walk away from the famous Taj Mahal. The hotel is built of the red stone reminiscent of the Mughal era, designed around landscaped central courtyard with swimming pool and fountains. All rooms are centrally air-conditioned and equipped with modern facilities like a mini-bar, complimentary tea and coffee making facility, direct dial telephone, data port connectivity, television set with satellite transmission and a personal safe. The hotel features an informal, poolside brasserie and a Bar. The restaurant serves an extensive buffet, and a choice of Continental and Indian cuisine.

For the ultimate in luxury, you could choose to upgrade to the Oberoi Amar - Vilas : - Only 600 metres from the Taj Mahal stands the Oberoi Group's luxury resort, Amarvilas. The classical architecture of the hotel is complemented by the elaborate gardens, terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions. The hotel has been designed to give guests uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal from all rooms and suites. The lobby, restaurants, bar and tea lounge also offer spectacular views of the world famous monument. The décor and service spell the ultimate in comfort and the luxurious spa offers non-clinical therapies.

Afternoon, you are collected for half day city tour of Agra visiting The Taj Mahal - a poem, a feeling of love, in white marble, is a fine example of the fusion of many architectural styles. It has been described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love. Your tour also includes a visit to the Red Sandstone Agra Fort, seat of the Mughal dynasty in the 16th century, lies on the bend of the River Yamuna, almost in the heart of town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the years of 1565-1573.

Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 04: Agra - Jhansi - Khajuraho
This morning met by our representative and escorted from your hotel to Agra railway station in time to board train (0825/1055 hrs) to Jhansi (Nearest railway station for Khajuraho).

Met on arrival at Jhansi railway station and drive to Khajuraho (180 kms/3½ hrs.).

Khajuraho : Famous for its temples that are India's unique gift to the world, representing, as they do, a paean to life, to love, to joy, perfect in execution and sublime in expression. Life, in every form and mood, has been captured in stone, testifying not only to the craftsman's artistry but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose rule the temples were conceived and constructed in the short span of a hundred yeas, from 950-1050 AD, in a truly inspired burst of creativity.

Upon arrival checkin at the Taj Chandela hotel. Later you are collected from your hotel for half day sightseeing tour of Khajuraho visiting eastern & western group of temples.

Taj Chandela : Just 1km from the famous temples, this is the best place to stay in Khajuraho. An inviting pool, good food, a lively bar and spacious rooms combine to make a comfortable stay. All rooms are elegantly appointed and offer guest amenities like speaker phones with international direct dialing facility, Internet connectivity, mini-bar, personal safe, channel music and colour television.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Khajuraho - Bandhavgarh
This morning drive to Bandhavgarh (270 kms/06 hrs.)

Striped Hyenas

Bandhavgarh : Bandhavgarh National Park, situated in the Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, has established a reputation as one of the best places in India to observe Tigers. The 105 square kilometers of park area, open for tourists is reported to have over 25 tigers. Like many Tiger reserves in India, the area was formerly the hunting reserve of a Maharaja and contains much evidence of its royal associations, most spectacular being the ruins of a huge hilltop fort which dominates the centre of the reserve. The Sal Forest which predominates in the Park is replaced by mixed forests at the higher elevations in the hills and there are also expanses of grassland and bamboo in the north. The core of the reserve is hilly and dominated by the ancient natural fort which towers to an impressive 800 metres above the forest. The Fort too is worth a visit. Bandhavgarh being an arid region, water is always attractive to wildlife and the presence of pools and streams in the reserve is one of the reasons it is so favoured by both game and predators. Although Tigers are the star attraction at Bandhavgarh the list of other mammals and birds that have made Bandhavgarh their home , is very impressive too .The list of birds includes such species as Grey-headed Fishing Eagle, Plumheaded Parakeet, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo and Asian Paradise Flycatcher among a total of over 250 species recorded in the district. Tigers and the more rarely seen Leopards, have no shortage of prey in the reserve. The Spotted Deer or Chital is a favourite item on the Tiger menu and several thousand of these delightful deer inhabit the park. Other species found here in varying abundance include; Chinkara, Chowsinga, Wild Boar, Sambar, Muntjac and Nilgai. The Asian Bison or Gaur last sighted as a small herd in 1998, the animal is now conspicuous by its absence since. A closely monitored programme of the reintroduction of the Gaur is planned within couple of years. A hunting pack of wild dogs may also be seen on occasions. Mammal sightings always require a degree of luck, particularly when the species is essentially nocturnal or reclusive but each outing in the reserve will at least provide a chance to meet one of the rarer inhabitants such as Sloth Bear, Indian fox, Jackal, Wolf, Ratel, Striped Hyenas, Jungle Cat or Indian Pangolin. More predictable are the sounders of Wild Boar rooting among the vegetation, Indian Hares, the lively little Palm Squirrels which seem to be constantly in a state of agitation, and several members of the mongoose tribe. Common Langurs and Rhesus Macaques are also plentiful, the former enjoying an elevated view of the forest as they devour their favourite leaves and often the first creature to bark out a warning at the appearance of a Tiger below.

Upon arrival in Bandhavgarh, check in to the Tiger Den.

Cottage

Tiger Den : located less than 500 meters from the entrance of the Bandhavgarh National Park, the Tiger Den is a comfortable jungle lodge, with well furnished cottage style accommodation set amidst well manicured lawns .Facilities here are rather basic , but the resorts management more than makes up for them ,with their excellent all round services and their excellent naturalists.

For the ultimate in luxury, you could choose to upgrade to the Taj CC Africa Mahua Kothi : -- A product of the recent partnership between CC Africa and the Taj Group, the Mahua Kothi offers the ultimate in luxury , as far as lodge accommodation in Bandhavgarh is concerned. The twelve charming suites or Kutiyas (jungle village huts) are newly built in the 40 acre grounds of the renowned tented camp formerly known as Churhat Kothi. The original Kothi (homestead) comprising the guest areas remains and has been extensively renovated, but the guest accommodation is all brand new. Those familiar with CC Africa's standards when it comes to Game lodges , would no doubt know what to expect here -- the best accommodation , top class services , gourmet cuisine and the best naturalists.

Evening game safari into the Bandhavgarh National Park. Safaris in Bandhavgarh are organized in jeeps and short elephant rides are also available. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 06: In Bandhavgarh
Early morning & evening game safaris into the Bandhavgarh National Park. Safaris in Bandhavgarh are organized in jeeps and short elephant rides are also available. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience.

Overnight at Lodge.

Day 07: In Bandhavgarh
Early morning & evening game safaris into the Bandhavgarh National Park. Safaris in Bandhavgarh are organized in jeeps and short elephant rides are also available. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience.

Overnight at Lodge.

Day 08: Bandhavgarh - Khajuraho - Varanasi
This morning drive to Khajuraho airport (270 kms/06 hrs) in time to board flight 9W 724 at 1330/1410 hrs) to Varanasi.

Varanasi Ghats

Varanasi : One of the holiest cities in India, Varanasi is one of the most important pilgrimage sites and also a major tourist attraction. It has been the religious capital of Hinduism since time immemorial. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi has been a center of learning and civilization for more than 2,000 years. Written records of the Skanda Purana and the Mahabharata mention its existence as long as 3,000 years ago. It is probably the oldest living city in India, and one of the world's most ancient. Varanasi has been a great cultural centre, especially in the fields of music, learning and the craft of silk weaving.

Upon arrival at Varanasi airport you will be met and escorted for check-in to the Taj Gateway hotel.

Taj Gateway : A five star hotel and a heaven of peace and tranquillity in the bustling temple city. With comfortable well-equipped rooms, the hotel offers guests an excellent mix of culture and comfort.Facilities include swimming pool, tennis court and shopping, and there is the choice of local and western cuisine.

Afternoon, you are collected from your hotel for a half-day tour of Varanasi.

The tour of this ancient city includes The Bharat Mata Temple, which has a big relief map of India in marble, the Benares Hindu University with its art gallery, and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb built on the side of an ancient Hindu temple, bathing ghats, The Kashivishwanath temple, The Durgakund.

Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 09: Varanasi - Kathmandu
Early morning enjoy a boat ride on the holy river The Ganges.

A highlight of any trip to Varanasi - this incredible scene as multitudes of devotees comes to the river to pay homage to the Sun God. The riverfront, as seen from a boat at sunrise, is a spiritually uplifting sight. Hinduism, deep and mystical, is everywhere: in a decorated doorway; in a glimpse of a glittering temple; in the sound of a sacred bell; in the chant of the priests; and in the fragrance of flower oblations.

Later met by our representative and escorted from your hotel to the Varanasi airport in time for your flight IC 751 (1210/1320 hrs) to Kathmandu.

Kathmandu

Kathmandu : Locked between India and Tibet the tiny kingdom of Nepal is a country full of diversity and fascination. It is a hidden Kingdom of great beauty embracing eight of the world's ten highest mountains including Everest, Annapurna and Kangchenjunga. The scenery is stupendous, from the highest point on earth (Mount Everest) to the fertile jungle lowland. Although its people are predominantly Hindu, there is a considerable overlap with Buddhism, and it is this vibrant mix of religion and culture which characterises the allure of Nepal and, in particular, its capital Kathmandu. It has an artistic and architectural tradition that rivals anything you will find in the great cities of Europe. Beyond the temples and bustle of the towns of the Kathmandu Valley rise the mountains of the Nepal Himalaya - the 'Abode of Snows'.

Upon arrival you will be met and escorted for check-in at the Hyatt Regency hotel.

Hyatt Regency : - Nestled into the rolling hills and surrounded by magnificent Himalayan mountain peaks, the Hyatt Regency occupies 37 acres of landscaped grounds overlooking the city of Kathmandu. To highlight the country's rich local culture, the low-rise design of the hotel reflects the distinct styles of Newari architectural characteristics. This fusion of styles is seen most clearly in the Lobby which features an indoor courtyard with exquisitely carved wooden ceilings and "chaityas" - art replicas of miniature temples dating back to the 16th century Malla kingdom, as well as an outdoor courtyard set in the hotel's landscaped gardens. On arrival at the hotel, guests are greeted by life-size mythological stone carvings which set the mood of peace and tranquility that many travelers seek when they visit Nepal. Located close to the airport and city centre, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu offers international standards of service and accommodation to the discerning traveler.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Kathmandu
This morning you are collected from your hotel for a full day tour of Kathmandu.

The morning tour includes a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square - a number of interesting pagodas and Indian style temples (Sikhara), the House of Kumari (the living Goddess) and the Kasthamandap (or wooden house which is the origin of the word Kathmandu) and many more things to see.

Soyambhunath - The monkey temple, with its commanding views of Kathmandu, its whitewashed stupas and its unique synthesis of Buddhist and Hindu religions.

Hanuman Dhoka - a temple complex in the middle of the old city. Built during the Malla period, the area consists of a number of different monuments & image of Lord Hanumana.

Afternoon tour includes a visit to Patan Durbar Square - this whole square is a cluster of fine pagoda temples and stone statues. The stone temple of Lord Krishna and the Royal Bath (Tushahity) with its intricate stone and bronze carvings are two masterpieces in the same vicinity.

Bouddhanath Stupa - It is among the largest stupas in South Asia, and it has become the focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The white mound looms thirty-six meters overhead. This place is also famous as a "little Tibet of Nepal".

Pashupatinath Temple - A temple dedicated to Shiva and holiest Hindu pilgrimage destination in Nepal, existed at this site in AD 879. There are linga images of Shiva along with statues, shrines, and temples dedicated to other deities in the complex.

Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Kathmandu - Chitwan
This morning you are collected from your hotel for an excursion tour of Bhaktapur.

Bhaktapur - Bhaktapur or Bhadgaon is a storehouse of medieval architecture founded in the 9th century. Here you visit the Golden Gate at the Palace of 55 windows; the Nyatapole temple, the tallest in the country and best example of the pagoda style; the Dattatreya temple; and Pujari Math, with its uniquely carved wooden windows.

Your sightseeing tour is followed by a drive to Chitwan National Park (175 kms/4 hrs.).

Royal Chitwan National Park Nepal's first and most famous national park is situated in the Chitwan Doon or the lowlands of the Inner Terai. Covering an area of 932 sq km. the park includes hilly areas of the Siwalik Range covered by deciduous sal forest. One fifth of the park is made up of the floodplains of the Narayani, Rapti, and the Reu Rivers and is covered by dense tall elephant grass interspersed with riverine forests of silk cotton (kapok), acacia and sisam trees. This ecologically diverse area is the last remaining home in Nepal for more than 300 of the endangered Asian one-horned rhinoceros and harbours one of the largest populations of the elusive and rare Royal Bengal tiger. Besides rhino and tiger, Chitwan also supports a great variety of flora and fauna. There are four species of deer, including the spotted chittal, leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, rhesus monkey, grey langur monkey, wild dog, small wild cats, the white stockinged gaur (the world's largest wild cattle) and many other smaller animals. The swampy areas and numerous oxbow lakes of Chitwan provide a home for marsh crocodiles. In a stretch of the Narayani river is found one of the few remaining populations of the rare and endangered fish-only eating gharial, or Genetic crocodile. Here also is found one of the world's four species of freshwater dolphins. For the ornithologist and the amateur bird-watcher the park offers excellent possibilities with more than 450 species recorded. Some of the resident specialities are several species of woodpeckers, hornbills, Bengal florican, and red-headed trogons. Winter birds such as waterfowl, Brahminy duck, pintails and bareheaded geese, amongst many other cold weather visitors are drawn by the sanctuary of the park's rivers. In the summer the forest is alive with nesting migrants such as the fabulous paradise flycatcher, the Indian pitta and parakeets

Upon arrival check-in to the Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge.

Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge : Established in the early 60s in the lush sub-tropical jungles of the Terai of Nepal for wildlife enthusiasts, Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge is the pioneer wildlife safari lodge of Nepal .Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge's famous tree houses and bungalows are built with sustainable natural materials. The lodge has twenty guest rooms . Each room has solar powered reading lamps, ceiling fans, attached modern bathrooms equipped with solar-heated showers. A feature of the lodge is the circular Dining Hall and Bar called a Gol Ghar with its huge domed roof and central open hearth; a special place to relax with friends and discuss the day's adventures and wildlife seen. The lodge has a reputed kitchen that serves a range of western and Nepali cuisine utilizing fresh organic food supplies .As the focus of the Lodge is wildlife safaris, The Tiger Tops Lodge has some of the finest naturalists and guides available in Nepal. With highly trained elephants, environmentally cared-for vehicles and safe river boats, safaris can cover the surrounding jungles in search of Chitwan's wildlife - the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian One-horned Rhinoceros, Indian bison - known as Gaur in Nepal - Sloth Bear, Leopard, Golden backed Jackal, four deer species and a wealth of bird life. One of the highlights of a visit to Tiger Tops is a jungle walk with an expert naturalist to spot rare birds and learn the diverse uses of local plants for medical and culinary purposes.

Overnight at the Lodge.

Day 12: In Chitwan
Early morning & evening game safaris into the Chitwan National Park. Safaris in Chitwan are organized in jeeps and short elephant rides are also available. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight at the Lodge.

Day 13: In Chitwan
Early morning & evening game safaris into the Chitwan National Park. Safaris in Chitwan are organized in jeeps and short elephant rides are also available. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight at the Lodge.

Day 14: Depart Chitwan
Check out of your hotel and leisurely drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu airport (175 kms/04 hrs) intime to board flight home.