Tigers and the Golden Triangle Tour

1. Day 1 Arrive Mumbai

   Arrive at Mumbai International Airport. Mumbai: Mumbai or Bombay as it was known earlier, is the commercial capital of India, a city of entrepreneurs, concrete towers, clubs and discos, cricket, Bollywood and more. In 1661, Charles II of England received the islands of Bombay as dowry when he married Princess Catherine of Braganza. The British Government leased the islands to the East India Company, who developed it into a thriving trading port. Today, Mumbai is the country's financial and cultural capital. It is also home to India's thriving film industry. It is seen, to the teeming masses that flock there to live and work, as a place where opportunities abound. Its inhabitants, an amalgam of great wealth and abject poverty, are swept into the endless maelstrom of activity that characterizes this city of dreams. 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 Trident Nariman Point for check-in. No activity is scheduled today since most of the International flights arrive in India close to midnight only. Trident Nariman Point: Towering above the skyline and overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Trident Nariman Point Mumbai is centrally situated in the heart of the shopping and business district. The city's main promenade, Marine Drive, lights up in the evening to give a spectacular view of the "Queen's Necklace". It is within walking distance from major corporate houses, entertainment, recreation, and shopping centers, 5 minutes drive from the Gateway Of India and 10 minutes drive to the main convention- World Trade Centre. Well-appointed rooms, many offering ocean views, with broadband and internet access, mini-bars, tea-coffee makers, etc. Leisure facilities include a large swimming pool, fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. Overnight in Mumbai.

2. Day 2 Mumbai - Nagpur - Pench (90 kms/ 02 hrs)

   This morning you will be met by our representative and escorted from your hotel to airport to board flight for Nagpur Upon arrival at Nagpur airport you will be met and drive to Pench National Park. (90 kms/02 hrs ), the first of the four National parks that you visit as a part of your India safari holiday. Pench: Pench Tiger Reserve, located in the Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is the 19th Project Tiger Reserve and has been one of the best-kept secrets among wildlife enthusiasts who have long been acquainted with and bedazzled by its immensely varied flora and fauna. No wonder the area providing a backdrop for wildlife viewing in the fairly open canopy of mixed forest, predominantly teak, with open grassy patches, the park with its undulating land boasts the highest density of herbivores in any Indian park. The population of cheetal, or spotted deer, is particularly high and there is also an abundance of sambar and nilgai. Visitors cannot fail to be amazed by the mighty gaur or Indian bison, which shares its home with such diverse creatures as wild boar, sloth bear, dhole, and mongoose and jungle cat. As its name implies, the park is also home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and the equally shy leopard. The birdlife has been described by visitors as some of the best in India and among the 250 or so species are Malabar pied hornbills, painted stork, long-tailed shrikes, kingfishers, blue jays and birds of paradise as well as crested serpent eagles, changeable hawk eagles and vultures. The picturesque Pench River, which winds its way through the park, is a magnet for all birds, particularly during the winter migration when the area teems with visitors including Brahmini ducks and bar-headed geese. Lying on the southern slopes of the Satpura ranges, the tiger reserve covers just over 757 sq kms and is two hours by road from Nagpur. While still known locally as Pench National Park, its name was changed in November 2002 to Indira Priyadarshni Pench National Park in honour of the Late Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi. The Park is open from 1st October till 30th of June every year. Upon arrival check-in to the Pench Jungle Camp. Pench Jungle Camp an oasis of calm in an all-too troubled world - offers the discerning guest the chance to experience the beauty of the wild coupled with luxurious living. Whether it is relaxing in one of the 12 deluxe tents, 3 cottages or 5 premier rooms, with birdsong and exotic jungle trees just outside the door, the resort is the ideal place to free oneself from the stresses and strains of 21st-century living. Each tent is housed on a raised platform with ensuite facilities. Centrally located common facilities include a spacious dining hall and sitting lounge cum library. The resort's adjoining eco-park is ``home'' to wildlife including numerous Birds, Cheetal, Sambar, Nilgai and resident leopards which have been seen walking through the camp, to the delight of amazed guests. Leisure facilities at the Pench Jungle Camp include a well-stocked library. a recreation room for informative slide shows and wildlife discussions, evening bonfires, nature walks, night safaris in the buffer area of the reserve and Bird watching trips. Overnight in Pench.

3. Day 3 Pench

   Early morning & evening game safaris into the Pench National Park. Safaris in Pench are organized in jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight in Pench.

4. Day 4 Pench - Kanha (160 kms/05 hrs)

   This morning you drive to Kanha (160 kms/05 hrs), the second of the four National parks that you visit as a part of your India safari holiday. Kanha situated in the Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, the picturesque Kanha National Park was the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling's unforgettable classic Jungle Book. The romance of the Kanha National Park has not reduced over time-it is still as beautiful. The park was created in 1955 by a special law and, since then, it has dedicated itself to preserve a variety of animal species. Many endangered species have indeed been saved here. Today Kanha is among the few most scenic and beautiful wildlife reserves in Asia. This 'Tiger Country' is the ideal home for both predator and prey. By far the most striking features of this region are the open grassy meadows, where sighting blackbuck, swamp deer, sambhar and chital is common. And, if one can transcend into time, a barefooted Mowgli would perhaps come padding along the dusty trail, for this is the land of Kipling's Jungle Book. Kanha is perhaps one of the best parks for sighting tigers. Of the numerous Tiger reserves in India, that are preserving this ferocious beast, but nowhere can you see them as often, and as regularly as in Kanha National Park. The main wildlife attractions in the park are Tiger, Bison, Gaur, Sambhar, Chital, Barasingha, Barking Deer, Black Deer, Black Buck, Chousingha, Nilgai, Mouse Deer, Sloth Bear, Jackal Fox, Porcupine, Hyena, Jungle Cat, Python, Pea Fowl, Hare, Monkey, Mongoose, Tiger and Leopard. The birds species in the park include Storks, Teals, Pintails, Pond Herons, Egrets, Peacock, Pea Fowl, Jungle Fowl, Spur Fowl, Partridges, Quails, Ring Doves, Spotted Parakeets, Green Pigeons, Rock Pigeons, Cuckoos, Papihas, Rollers, Bee-eater, Hoopoes, Drongos, Warblers, Kingfishers, Woodpeckers, Finches, Orioles, Owls and Fly Catchers. However, if one animal species were to represent Kanha, it would probably be the barasingha, or the swamp deer. The barasinghas at Kanha are unique, being the hard ground variety, which populate the large open tracts of grass amidst the forests of teak and bamboo. Twenty years ago, the barasingha was faced with extinction but some desperate measures including the fencing-off of some animals helped save them and again the air in Kanha bugle with their rutting calls. Upon arrival check-in to Chitvan Jungle Lodge. On arrival check in to the Chitvan Jungle Lodge. Chitvan Jungle Lodge: Chitvan is among the most beautiful secrets among the Jungle and Safari Lodges in India. It blends into the surrounding landscape, while providing a stunning viewpoint for observing the area’s wealth of Wildlife. The surrounding hills are wooded, and the open grassland in front is interspersed with some Sal trees, whistling thorns, and some scrub. You will be captivated by this unspoiled corner of Kanha National Park, spread in about 14 acres of land. The 18 Luxurious and well-appointed suits with large windows offering views of the adjoining forests, farm and hill areas. Savor fresh food items taken from the organic farm along with thrill of the wilderness. Evening game safari into Kanha National Park. Safaris in Kanha are organized in jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight in Kanha.

5. Day 5 Kanha

   Early morning & evening game safaris into the Kanha National Park. Safaris in Kanha are organized in jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight in Kanha.

6. Day 6 Kanha

   Early morning & evening game safaris into the Kanha National Park. Safaris in Kanha are organized in jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight in Kanha.

7. Day 7 Kanha - Jabalpur (200 kms/ 04 hrs) & Overnight Train to Agra

   Early morning game safari into Kanha National Park. Afternoon drive to Jabalpur (Nearest railway station of Kanha) in time to board an overnight train to Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal, and the next destination of your Tigers and The Golden Triangle Tour. Overnight on board train.

8. Day 8 Arrive Agra

   Upon arrival at Agra Railway station, you will be met and escorted to for check-in at the Trident. 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 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. 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 a landscaped central courtyard with a 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. Afternoon, 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 in Agra.

9. Day 9 Agra - Bharatpur (56 kms/01 hrs.)

   This morning you drive to Bharatpur (56 kms/01 hrs.) visiting Fatehpur Sikri en-route. Often called the ghost city, built by Akbar the Great in the 16th century to serve as the capital of his vast empire, Fatehpur Sikri was mysteriously abandoned 13 years later. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has many wonderful architectures to marvel at. Later continue your drive to Bharatpur, the third of the four National parks that you visit as a part of your India safari holiday. Bharatpur: Now known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, situated in the North Indian state of Rajasthan (actually very close to Agra) is without question one of the finest birdwatching locations in the world. The reserve provides diversity and abundance of birdlife only equaled in Africa and keen birdwatchers are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of birds present. Notable species amongst the throngs of nesting Painted Storks, White Ibises, Darters and Spoonbills are specialities such as the threatened Black-necked Stork, Comb Duck, and the elusive Spotted Creeper. Thousands of ducks crowd the marshes and pools and include, amongst the more familiar species, hundreds of Ferruginous and Lesser Whistling Ducks plus smaller numbers of Red-crested Pochards and Spotbilled Ducks. Both White and Dalmatian Pelicans may occur and large numbers of Common Cranes along with smaller numbers of Sarus Cranes use the reserve in which to winter. Bharatpur has also been famous as the winter hideaway of the very rare Siberian Cranes, though the sighting of these has reduced considerably in recent years. Bharatpur also provides unrivaled opportunities for observing a large range of raptors, including Spotted, Imperial, Steppe and Tawny Eagles, as well as a host of vultures. Bharatpur is also known for the sighting of rare bird species such as Orange-headed Ground Thrush, Dusky Warbler, Marshall's Iora and Large-tailed Nightjar. Other wildlife inhabiting the Bharatpur Sanctuary includes the rare and beautiful Blackbuck, Indian Smooth Otter, Fishing Cat, Soft-shelled Turtle and Indian Python. Nilgai, Sambar, Spotted Deer and Rhesus Macaques .A very interesting feature of Bharatpur is the way game rides are done -- on cycle rickshaws .You could also take a cycling or walking tour of this park. Upon arrival check-in to The Bagh. The Bagh: The Bagh is a heritage hotel set in 12 acres of beautiful gardens, very close to the Bharatpur Bird sanctuary. The hotel's twenty-three rooms are located in three different residential complexes. A restaurant, banquet hall, coffee shop, library, and a gym, all situated in a verdant orchard, allow guests to enjoy solitude and companionship in restful indoor and outdoor spaces. Each of the Bagh's twenty-three rooms is unique. Spacious bathrooms, luxurious fabrics, fine furnishings, and all modern-day amenities, let the weary traveler retreat and recoup after a day of sightseeing and bird watching. Gulmohar, the main restaurant, specializes in the wonderful vegetarian cuisine of the Braj region. With over fifty species of flora, including fruiting trees and flowering plants which attract birds, small animals, and insects, guests can enjoy quiet walks in the garden and commune with nature. The handsome buildings made in local stones are designed to merge with their natural surroundings. Works by contemporary Indian women artists are displayed throughout the complex. A stroll through the Bagh's garden and buildings leads a visitor through the realms of nature and art. Late in the afternoon rickshaw ride into Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Safaris in Bharatpur are organized on Cycle rickshaw. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight in Bharatpur.

10. Day 10 Bharatpur - Ranthambore (250 kms/06 hrs)

    Morning rickshaw ride in Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Safaris in Bharatpur are organized on Cycle rickshaw. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Later drive to Ranthambore (250 kms/06 hrs), the last National park that you visit as a part of your India safari holiday. Ranthambore: The most conveniently located National Park in the North Indian state of Rajasthan, is considered by many to be one of India's most beautiful national parks. The Ranthambore National Park is one of the prime examples of Project Tiger's conservation efforts in Rajasthan. It covers an area of 400 sq km with many steep crags embracing a network of lakes and rivers. Atop one of these hills, the 10th century Ranthambore Fort stands like a silent sentinel. The terrain is a blend of impregnable forests and open bushland. The forest is the typically dry deciduous type with dhok being the most prominent tree. Ranthambore is best known for its tiger population, and tiger sightings are common here. Apart from tigers, the park has its share of panthers, too. Kachida Valley is believed to be the place to sight these rather elusive cats. One can also find marsh crocodiles, hyenas, jungle cats, and sloth bears apart from Chital, Nilgai, and Chinkara. The avian population comprises of black storks, quails, Bonelli's eagles, spur fowls, crested serpent eagles, and painted storks. During the winter months, the park attracts a lot of migratory birds, including a variety of ducks. It is the ideal park for wildlife photography. Upon arrival check-in to Nahargarh. Nahargarh: Nahargarh is a royal palace in the lush forest of Ranthambhore. Spread over lush wilderness, the royal retreat is an exuberant palace hotel, one of the most indulgent properties in Rajasthan. This one-of-its-kind property comprises of delightful accommodation with modern amenities, a spa, Bar and grand courtyards, 3 different swimming pools, amphitheater called Hathi Kund where the entertainment for the evening is hosted, restaurants serving mouth-watering platters and more. Feel like a royal in the royal land of Ranthambore. Overnight stay in Ranthambore.

11. Day 11 Ranthambore

    Early morning & evening game safaris into the Ranthambore National Park. Safaris in Ranthambhore are organized in jeeps and open-air mini trucks, and local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight in Ranthambore.

12. Day 12 Ranthambore - Jaipur (180 kms/3½ hrs.).

    Early morning game safari at Ranthambore National Park. Safaris in Ranthambhore are organized in jeeps and open-air mini trucks, and local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Later drive to the Pink city of Rajasthan - Jaipur (180 kms/3½ hrs.). Jaipur: Jaipur is an exuberance of color, dance, and song with the traditional arts and crafts. It's one of India's most well-planned cities, with wide, straight avenues, roads, streets and lanes in a grid system. The great warrior/astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II carefully planned Jaipur's foundation. Laid out in the 18th century, its design followed specifications from an epochal Hindu treatise on architecture. This "Pink City," so-called because its buildings are painted in the tones of an autumnal sunset, intersperses the play of red and pink with white borders and motifs. The walled city of Jaipur is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palaces and forts of yesteryear, once witness to royal processions, now shine amid the splendor of modern monuments, juxtaposition accepted quite naturally into the lifestyles of an amazing people. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check in to the Jai Mahal Palace. Jai Mahal Palace: Set in several acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the Jai Mahal Palace was the residence of the former Prime Minister of the state of Jaipur. Now a Deluxe hotel, managed by the Taj Group, the hotel has recently been refurbished and upgraded. Almost all rooms offer breathtaking views of the Moghul gardens or the swimming pool. Excellent service and modern amenities make the Jai Mahal Palace one of the finest hotels in Jaipur. Later you are collected from your hotel for a half-day sightseeing tour of Jaipur visiting Hawa Mahal or "Palace of Winds," one of the major landmarks of Jaipur, although it is actually little more than a façade. The five-story building was originally built to enable the ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and processions of the city. The City Palace, located in the heart of the old city, is a large complex of courtyards, buildings, and gardens, and also houses an interesting museum. Adjacent to the City Palace is Jantar Mantar, the ancient astronomical observatory built by Raja Jai Singh, whose passion for astronomy was even more notable than his prowess as a warrior. Overnight in Jaipur.

13. Day 13 Jaipur - Delhi (265 kms/05 hrs)

    This morning you are collected from your hotel for excursion to Amber fort, situated on the outskirts of the city. Here, you are transported back in time today, riding like royalty atop elegantly draped and painted elephants into the high mountain fortress. Amer finds mention among the Hill Forts of Rajasthan which is further listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Amber Fort was the ancient capital of the State until 1728 and inside the fort, you visit the Jagmandir or the Hall of victory glittering with mirrors, Jai Mahal and the Temple of Kali. Your sightseeing tour is followed by a drive to Delhi (265 kms/05 hrs), the last stop of your India wildlife and cultural tour. Delhi: A bustling metropolis and a city of almost 17 million inhabitants, is also India's capital. 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. Upon arrival in Delhi check-in at The Claridges. 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 Restaurants. Overnight in Delhi.

14. Day 14 Depart Delhi

    This morning you are collected from your hotel for a full-day tour of Old and New Delhi. The tour of the 17th-century old city includes Red Fort- A world heritage site inscribed by UNESCO, the great mosque of Jama Masjid, the main street of Old Delhi is the colorful shopping bazaar known as Chandni Chowk ("Moonlit Street") and 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. And, lastly Qutub Complex, a world heritage site. Your sightseeing tour is followed by a drop at Delhi International airport in time to board the flight home

Price

Start from: USD 3466 Per Person

Accommodation

Important Information

• Small supplements may apply for travel between 18th November and 03rd December’, 20th December' and 05th January' and during the month of February’ .
• All the figures quoted above are net per person in US Dollars.