What is the best time for Safaris in India?

Most National Parks in India are typically open from early October until the end of June each year, and closed during July, August and September due to the monsoon. While November to March is traditionally a good time to travel to India, March to June is particularly good for wildlife viewing and tiger sightings.

Which are the best National Parks for Tiger sightings?

Kanha and Bandhavgarh in Central India are known for frequent tiger sightings, as is Ranthambore in Rajasthan. In Southern India, Nagarhole National Park also offers excellent opportunities for tiger sightings.

Do Safaris need to be pre-booked?

Yes. The Forest Department regulates the number of vehicles entering National Parks for morning and afternoon safaris. Safari bookings at most National Parks typically open around three months in advance and tend to fill up quickly.

Are Private Jeep Safaris possible?

Yes. Private Jeep Safaris are available at most National Parks. However, there are some National Parks, notably Nagarhole, where private Jeep Safaris are not available.

Are there fixed durations for the Safaris?

Yes. Safari timings are regulated by the Forest Department. During winter, morning safaris are usually from 0630 to 1030 hrs and afternoon safaris from 1430 to 1730 hrs. Timings are adjusted during the summer months.

Are Cameras and Mobile phones permitted in the National Parks?

Still and basic video cameras are permitted at the National Parks. Mobile phones are not allowed at any of the National Parks, according to the information provided on the website.

Is accommodation available inside the Tiger Reserves and National Parks?

No. Unlike in Africa, accommodation in India is situated outside the National Parks.

Birds, Crocs and the Taj

Tour Duration

11 Nights / 12 Days
Places Covered

Delhi(2) > Chambal(2) > Bharatpur(2) > Agra(2) > Satpura National Park(3)

from US $ 3680

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Why choose birds, crocs and the taj ?

Journey Highlights & Overview

Birds, Crocs and the Taj is a journey that brings together birdwatching, tiger spotting and watching the sun-basking crocodiles. Another blessing of the tour is the beautiful Taj Mahal. A specially-crafted tour 12-day itinerary that combines natural beauty, adventure, heritage, culture and cherished experiences. The tour begins with your arrival in Delhi. After a day of sightseeing move to the rural lands of Chambal. Next, proceed to the bird haven of Bharatpur. Pay a visit to the breathtaking monument of love, the Taj Mahal. End the tour with Satpura National Park.

Itinarary for birds, crocs and the taj

Day 1

Arrive Delhi

Upon clearing Customs and Immigration, you are met by our representative who will arrange your transfer to hotel for check-in. Delhi: A bustling city of 14 million inhabitants, India's capital is a near-perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, Delhi, consisting of 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. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 2

In Delhi

After breakfast, start with a full day sightseeing tour. The sightseeing spots are- The Red Fort, Friday Mosque - Jama Masjid, The silver street of Chandni Chowk, Raj Ghat, The India Gate, The Rashtrapati Bhawan -- President's House, The tomb of Emperor Humayun and Qutab Minar. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 3

Drive Delhi - Chambal (270 kms/ 05 hrs)

Drive to Chambal and upon arrival, check in at the lodge. Afternoon jeep safari into the Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary. Overnight stay in Chambal.

Day 4

In Chambal

Morning River Safari and afternoon jeep safari into the Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary. Overnight in Chambal.

Day 5

Drive Chambal-Bharatpur (125 kms/ 02 ½ -03 hrs)

Morning River Safari into the Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary. Later, drive to Bharatpur and upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Bharatpur.

Day 6

In Bharatpur

Morning and afternoon rickshaw rides into the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Overnight stay in Bharatpur.

Day 7

Drive Bharatpur-Agra (55 kms/ 01 hr)

Morning, drive to Agra en-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri. The UNESCO listed world heritage site is often called the ghost city as it was mysteriously abandoned after 13 years of its founding. It was built by Akbar the Great in the 16th century to serve as the capital of his vast empire. On arrival in Agra, check in at the hotel. Overnight in Agra.

Day 8

In Agra

You are collected from your hotel for a half-day 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. Overnight stay in Agra.

Day 9

Train Agra-Bhopal (Shatbdi Express—0755/ 1410 hrs) & Drive to Satpura (165 kms/ 04 hrs)

Transfer to Agra railway station in time to board the train for Bhopal. Met on arrival at Bhopal railway station and drive to Satpura and upon arrival, check in at the lodge. Overnight stay in Satpura.

Day 10

In Satpura

Morning and afternoon safaris into the Satpura National Park. Overnight in Satpura.

Day 11

In Satpura

Morning and afternoon safaris into the Satpura National Park. Overnight stay in Satpura.

Day 12

Drive Satpura - Bhopal (165 kms/ 04 hrs) & Fly to Delhi & Depart

Drive to Bhopal airport in time to board flight for Delhi to connect further flight for onward destination.

Accommodation

Cities	Accommodations
Chambal	Chambal Safari Lodge
Bharatpur	Laxmi Vilas Palace
Agra	Trident
Satpura National Park	Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Delhi	The Claridges

Whats included in this tour.

Items that are covered in the cost of tour price.

Accommodation on twin sharing bed and breakfast basis, EXCEPT in Satpura, where all meals are included, at the mentioned hotels/ lodges.
All arrival-departure transfers and land transportation using an aircon car exactly as per the itinerary.
Sightseeing tours/ game rides along with a local English Speaking Guide/ Naturalist and including entrance fee to the monuments/parks exactly as mentioned in the Itinerary.
Aircon First Class train tickets for the sector Agra-Bhopal by Shatabdi Express.