Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Namaste & welcome to incredible Republic of India - one of the friendliest countries on earth, combining glorious architecture with a warm-hearted welcome.

With its sumptuous mix of traditions, spiritual beliefs, festivals, architecture & landscapes, your memories of India will blaze bright long after you have left its shores.

Arrive in the dynamic & vibrant city Delhi, one of the world’s greatest megalopolises with its chaotic charm & juxtapositions found on every street, Steeped in history yet overflowing with modern life, colourful, cacophonous Delhi pulsates with the relentless rhythms of humanity like few other cities on Earth.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal 3 - Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be met by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you the hotel. Assistance will be provided during Check-in & there will be a short briefing to discuss the program for the next few days.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Delhi, the capital of kingdoms & empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past & the present. Delhi is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land & a window to the kaleidoscope that is India. It is a city that bridges two different worlds.

Delhi has been the political hub of India. Every political activity in the country traces its roots here. This was true even of the mythological era. The Pandavas of the Mahabharata had their capital at Indraprastha, which is believed to have been geographically located in today's Delhi.

Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis & formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues & imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several rulers & many empires for about a millennium. Many a times the city was built, destroyed & then rebuilt here. Interestingly, a number of Delhi's rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers & then as creators.

Delhi is a city built upon cities. There are at least 8 historical Delhi, each constructed on, or near, the ruins of its predecessor, leaving a modern-day citadel that's dotted with ancient monuments, many said to be haunted by djinns (spirits). Love history & you will be left salivating as you trace your way through the eras, clambering across the ruined forts of Tughlaqabad, Siri, Purana Qila & Shajahanabad; exploring the magnificent tombs of eminent historical figures & visiting the still-vibrant temples, mosques & shrines that throng with devotees today, as they have done for hundreds of years.

The city's importance lies not just in its past glory as the seat of empires and magnificent monuments, but also in the rich and diverse cultures. No wonder chroniclers of Delhi culture - from Chand Bardai & Amir Khusro to present day writers - have never been at a loss for topics. In Delhi, you will discover that the city is sprinkled with dazzling gems: captivating ancient monuments, fascinating museums and art galleries, architectural wonders, a vivacious performing-arts scene, fabulous eating places and bustling markets.

And how can we forget the indomitable Delhi cuisine & street food.

As the capital city of one of the most delicious country's on Earth, Delhi tantalises your taste buds with its thali-like fusion of flavours from every corner of the subcontinent: Breakfast on South Indian idly; lunch on Punjabi kulchas; then, come evening, dine on rich Mughlai curries. But don't forget to leave room for some Dilli-ka-Chaat, Delhi's famously delicious street-food snacks; try sizzling kebabs for starters, then munch on aloo tikki (spiced potato patties) before getting your fingers sticky on jalebi (orange-coloured coils of deep-fried batter dunked in sugar syrup) or savouring some sumptuously creamy cardamon kheer (rice pudding).

Evening, be ready for an interesting experience, reliving the centuries old history.

In time, you will be met by the Journeys Rep up at 06.00 pm for transfer to the majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort, more popularly known as Lal Quila.

One of the finest examples of the precision, grandeur & finesse of Mughal architecture, the Red Fort, was built by Emperor Shah Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal, between 1638 & 1648. The red sandstone used in its massive outer wall gave it the name “Lal Quila” or the Red Fort. The Red Fort was the residence of the Mughal emperor and the capital of the empire till Bahadur Shah Zafar the last Mughal emperor was deposed by the British in 1857. 

Relive the history as you enjoy the 1 hour + Son et Lumiere Show within the sandstone walls of Delhi's Red Fort. Learn how Delhi’s Red Fort became one of its most important landmarks, the mystifying stories, astonishing legends, the tales of rise & fall of kingdoms, eminent rulers who changed the course of history, narrated through a composition of music & color.

Feast your eyes & ears on the magical effects created by the Son et Lumiere Show within the sandstone walls of the Fort. Relive the history as the enchanting fusion of lights & sounds, accompanied with captivating narration takes you through the extraordinary episodes of Delhi. Learn how Delhi’s Red Fort became one of its most important landmarks, the mystifying stories, astonishing legends, the tales of rise & fall of kingdoms, eminent rulers who changed the course of history, narrated through a composition of music & color.

After the Show ends, get ready to enjoy authentic Indian delicacies & proceed to the popular Chor Bizarre restaurant, in the vicinity.

Designed to look like a thief's market, this dining room serves dishes from around the country.

"Chor Bizarre is the complete eating out experience - great decor, distinct ambience enhanced by assorted Hindi, '50's music, wondrous cocktails, superlative food, charming 'Old World' service" - The Economic Times.

Every city in India has its own special 'Chor Bazaar' which translates as 'thieves market'. All kinds of wares find their way here (with or without the consent of the owners). This being our inspiration & to celebrate the eclecticism of India in all its exuberant irreverence, the owners coined the name with a pun on the word bazaar & 'Chor Bizarre' was born

Having created an atmosphere that provides a unique setting for truly authentic & inspired cuisine, Chor Bizarre has been one of India's most celebrated restaurants since 1990.

Return to the hotel.

Overnight.  D 

Delhi with its Old & New parts - each with its specific charm & glory - makes a very interesting city for its sustenance to medieval and modern cultures at the same time and space. Today, you will explore the capital of India in a full-day tour - including buildings of early Turkish structure to Mughal buildings to Lutyen's Delhi.

Meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby at 09:00 am & proceed on a full day 8 hour sightseeing to discover this amazing kaleidoscope of old & new cultures. You will see a well-groomed corporate Executive whizzing by in a BMW or a Mercedes or a Bentley amidst the chaos of the Delhi streets shared by cows & may be an elephant or a camel walking by.

Visit Old Delhi - the former center of Mughal power which offers ancient monuments, narrow streets & bustling markets. Visit the famous Red Fort built in 1648 by the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan famous for his great edifice of love the “Taj Mahal”. It was the residence of succeeding Mughal emperors for about 200 years. Also see Jama Masjid, constructed by Shah Jahan in 1658 and reputed to be largest mosque in Asia. Then enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk to get a feel of the royal life of the Mughal emperors. A visit to Delhi without paying homage to the final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi is not possible. Raj Ghat was built to honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi and this cenotaph draws millions of people all through the year.

Post lunch you will be taken to see New Delhi which came into existence much later, and is also known as Lutyen’s Delhi, named after the British architect who was largely responsible in designing India Gate -

the 42 metre tall monument, built in the memory of the World War 1 martyrs (i.e. British soldiers), Viceroy’s Palace which is now Presidential residence, Parliament House- the govt. headquarters & many other buildings in that area. You will be stopping at India Gate & driving by the Palace & Parliament. 

Continue on to visit the recent jewel in the crown, the Lotus Temple, a symbol of Bahai faith & then drive on to see the UNESCO World Heritage site, the 72.5 meter Qutub Minar the tallest brick minaret in the World, which heralded the arrival & rise of Islam in India.

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the day is at leisure to relax or perhaps opt for one of the many options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).  

Early morning, depart for Jaipur. 

Check-in on arrival by afternoon & relax or walk around on your own.

Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan a romantic realm of resplendent palaces, mighty fortresses and regal Maharajahs that lies in the western deserts and is an utterly unique part of India. Proudly belonging to the Kshatriya warrior caste & fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made fearsome foes. However, many of them realized that to maintain their wealth & authority locally, it was expedient to proclaim allegiance to the central power. Thus, many enjoyed a privileged position under the Mughal emperors and also the British Raj that followed.

The bustling Rajasthan capital of Jaipur takes its name from its venerated founder Jai Singh II, who was given the title Sawai Maharaja by the Mughal. Literally translated this would mean 'one and a quarter', suggesting that the Mughals thought this emperor to be more valuable than just 'one'. Jaipur is known as the 'Pink City' on account of the distinctive colour of its buildings. This did not, however, form part of the original plan, but dates back to 1856, when the city was given a wash of pink colour in honour of a State Visit by Prince Albert.

The city’s colourful, chaotic streets ebb & flow with a heady brew of old and new. Careering buses dodge dawdling camels, leisurely cycle-rickshaws frustrate swarms of motorbikes & everywhere buzzing auto-rickshaws watch for easy prey. In the middle of this cacophony & mayhem, the splendours of Jaipur’s majestic past are islands of relative calm evoking a different pace & another world.

At the city’s heart, the City Palace continues to house the former royal family; the Jantar Mantar, the royal observatory, maintains a heavenly aspect; & the honeycomb Hawa Mahal gazes on the bazaar below. And just out of sight, in the arid hill country surrounding the city, is the fairy-tale grandeur of Amber Fort, Jaipur’s star attraction.

Evening, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby around 06:00 pm & proceed to visit one of the famous landmarks here - the Birla Temple (aka Laxmi Narayan Temple) to learn more about the fascinating religious life of Jaipur.

Jaipur, famous for its forts, palaces, monuments & heritage history, houses one of the finest Hindu temples in the country. The temple was constructed by one of India's most famous industrialist family of Birlas, The family has erected similar grand temples across India, including in Delhi, Kolkata & Hyderabad. Known across the country for its glory, Laxmi Narayan Temple, now known as Birla Mandir, is the pride of the Pink City. The temple is an abode to Lord Vishnu & Goddess Lakshmi.

Birla Mandir is a Hindu temple located in Jaipur & is part of one of the several Birla Mandir located all around the country. The grand temple is located on an elevated ground at the base of Moti Dungari hill, surrounded by lush green trees which simply add to the calm & peace of the temple

According to history, the Birla temple was built on the land given to the Birla family by the Maharaja of Jaipur, for just a token sum of one rupee. One of India's most famous business families, B.M Birla Foundation, built this temple in the year 1988. The family has erected similar grand temples across India, including in Delhi, Kolkata & Hyderabad.

The Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the preserver & his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth.

Constructed with the finest quality of white marble, it houses ornate statues of Lakshmi & Narayan, carved from a single piece of marble, dressed in gaudy robes, representing a Hindu vision of heavenly luxury. Ganesh, the protector of households, is above the lintel, and the fine quality of the marble is evident when you enter the temple & look back at the entrance - Ganesh can be made out through the marble, which is almost transparent.

The 3 huge domes of the temple represent three different approaches to the religion. The beautiful white marble temple mesmerizes the onlookers, when it glows at night. The temple’s stained-glass windows depict scenes from Hindu scriptures.

Many of the deities of the Hindu pantheon are depicted on Carvings inside the temple & on pillars supporting the covered walkways. The fascinating exteriors of the temple are carved splendidly with beautiful sculptures based on mythological themes, while the interiors have a large marble panel portraying mythological events.

On the outside walls, historic figures from other religions are shown, including Socrates, Zoroaster, Christ, Buddha & Confucius as well as the Blessed Virgin Mary & St Francis of Assisi. The Temple of Jaipur looks stunning, when it is brightly lit in the night.

The Laxmi Narayan Mandir is a modern architectural marvel, surrounded by lush green gardens. Next to the Birla Lakshmi Narayan Temple there is a small museum, which houses ancestral objects belonging to the billionaire Birla family. Thronged by devotees throughout the day, the temple is especially crowded during the festive season.

Your visit will coincide with the Aarti Ceremony, which involves oil lamps being lit & waved in a certain way, in order to awake & invoke the deity.

Return to the hotel.

Early morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am & proceed for full day 8 hour sightseeing of the city.

First stop will be Amber Fort is located on a hillock in Amer, a town with an area of 4 square kilometres on the outskirts of Jaipur.

Ascent to the Fort will be atop an elephant, as the royals used to do in the older days. Amber Fort Palace - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace.

Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its foreboding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.

This magnificent fort is largely made up of a royal palace, built from pale yellow & pink sandstone & white marble and divided into four main sections, each with its own courtyard. Whether you walk or ride an elephant, you will enter Amber Fort through Suraj Pol (Sun Gate), which leads to the Jaleb Chowk (main courtyard), where returning armies would display their war booty to the populace - women could view this area from the veiled windows of the palace.

From Jaleb Chowk, an imposing stairway leads up to the main palace, but first it’s worth taking the steps just to the right, which lead to the small Siladevi Temple, with its gorgeous silver doors featuring repoussé (raised relief) work. Heading back to the main stairway will take you up to the second courtyard and the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), which has a double row of columns, each topped by a capital in the shape of an elephant, and latticed galleries above.

The maharaja’s apartments are located around the third courtyard - you enter through the fabulous Ganesh Pol, decorated with beautiful frescoed arches. The Jai Mandir (Hall of Victory) is noted for its inlaid panels and multi-mirrored ceiling. Carved marble relief panels around the hall are fascinatingly delicate and quirky, depicting cartoonlike insects & sinuous flowers.

Opposite the Jai Mandir is the Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure), with an ivory-inlaid sandalwood door & a channel that once carried cooling water right through the room. From the Jai Mandir, you can enjoy fine views from the palace ramparts over picturesque Maota Lake below.

The zenana (secluded women’s quarters) surrounds the fourth courtyard. The rooms were designed so that the maharaja could embark on his nocturnal visits to his wives’ & concubines’ respective chambers without the others knowing, as the chambers are independent but open onto a common corridor.

Return to the city & continue the sightseeing tour of Jaipur visiting City Palace - a delightful blend of Mughal & traditional Rajasthani architecture. Conceived & designed by Maharaja Jai Singh, the Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. One of the most important architectural landmarks in Jaipur, the palace complex has numerous buildings, courtyards, impressive gateways & temples. The palace houses Sawai Jai Singh's seven-storey facade Chandra Mahal ("moon palace"), solid marble Mubarak Mahal, the Diwan-e-Aam & Diwan-e-Khas (the Hall of Private Audience). Chandra Mahal is still the residence of the present royal family. It also houses Shri Govind Dev Temple & the City Palace Museum.

You will pass by Hawa Mahal. Arguably Jaipur's most acclaimed landmark, the tapering Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of Winds" was built in 1799 to enable the ladies of the royal household to watch street processions while remaining in a strict state of purdah. Its five-storey facade, decked with no less than 593 finely screened windows & balconies, makes the building seem far larger than it really is; in fact it is little more than one room thick in most parts.

Visit Jantar Mantar, the royal astronomical observatory built in stone by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1716 to measure movement of the stars and planets, time, altitude and other astronomical events. End the Tour with a brief visit to Nawab Sahab Ki Haveli and the local Bazaar.

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the evening is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we shall be only too happy to offer suggestions & arrange). You may want to walk down to the famous movie theatre Raj Mandir, to enjoy a ‘Hindi’ Bollywood Movie

Morning, depart for Rantahmbore National Park located in the town of Sawai Madhopur.

Arrive by noon & Check-in.

Sawai Madhopur, originally called Madhopur, is a significant & beautiful district of Rajasthan, famous for its sightseeing places & also for some of its food items. Guavas are grown in the 40 km region around the city & re shipped all over India. It also has Trinetra Ganesh Temple & the UNESCO World Heritage listed Ranthambore Fort.  But the most significant feature is as the access point for Ranthambhore National Park.

A wildlife haven amidst the deserts, the famous Ranthambhore National Park is the best place to spot wild tigers in Rajasthan. It comprises 1334 sqkm of wild jungle scrub in an area where the ancient ranges of the Vindhyas' flat-topped hills merge with the sharp ridges of the Aravalis.

Set against this backdrop is the 10^th century Ranthambhore Fort. The Park's uniqueness lies in its man-made lakes & ancient reservoirs, which have merged into the natural system as vital sources of water. Nature lovers can feel the fresh air in this wild jungle, with channels of lakes & rivers & wild scrubs.

The jungles used to be the private hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur until 1970 even after it was designated as a National Park (the power of money, imagine) & was named after the royal lineage - Sawai Madhopur Wildlife Sanctuary. It was rechristened as Ranthambore National Park in 1980.

Although the last Tiger census in 2018 enumerated that there are 67 Tigers here, spotting one is a matter of luck mainly because of the dense jungle.  That is why we have programmed 3 jungle safaris for you. . But there is plenty of other wildlife to see, including more than 300 species of birds.

Later in the afternoon around 03.00 pm, meet the Ranger & hop on to 6 Seater open 4WDs (known as Gypsies, because most of them are the Suzuki Gypsy brand) for a 3 hour game drive.

An open jeep safari also affords a glimpse of the spectacular ruins of ancient mosques, tombs, watchtowers & palaces, hunting pavilions, crocodile-filled lakes & vine-covered Chhatris (cenotaphs) scattered within the park. The vegetation is typically dry deciduous forest and moderate to scanty undergrowth in flat valleys. The reserve has a rich faunal assemblage and the scanty undergrowth allows opportunities for good game viewing.

Undoubtedly the best place to observe tigers in the wild, the Park also has a host of other predators such as the Caracal, Leopard, Sloth Bear and Jungle Cat. The prey species include Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara and the Wild Boar. The protected Blackbuck can be seen in fields close to the reserve. Scavengers like Striped Hyena, Jackal, Mongoose & Common Fox are also seen here. The Common Langur surely lives up to its name.  Ranthambhore also has a large populaton of panthers, the second largest predators of the forest. Marsh Crocodiles abound in the lakes and Gharial can be spotted close by in the Chambal River, which also harbours the Gangetic Dolphin.

One can also enjoy bird watching in Ranthambore. Of the 300 species of birds reported at Ranthambhore, the prominent ones are Variable Wheatear, Tickell's Blue Flycatcher, Rufus-tailed Shrike, SirkeerMalkhoa, Painted Spurfowl, Blue-breasted Quail and Rain Quail. Raptors include Lesser Spotted Eagle, Bonelli's Eagle, Changeable Hawk Eagle and owls such as the Brown Fish Owl and Collared Scops Owl. In the areas adjoining the park, one can spot the Greater Flamingo, Demoiselle Crane, Kentish Plover, Yellow Wattled Lapwing, Brown-headed Gull, Ruff and the Indian Courser.

Come back to the Lodge.

Balance of the evening is at leisure.

Today, get up at dawn, meet the Ranger & depart by 06.00 am for another 3 hour game drive.

Come back in time for breakfast & relax.

Balance of day in between free for optional activities

One more game drive in the afternoon around 03.00 pm.

Balance of the day is at leisure.

Early morning, depart for Agra visiting Fatehpur Sikri en-route.

Fatehpur Sikri is the old & surprisingly well preserved & deserted town of the Mughal dynasty, constructed predominantly in red sandstone. Built by the Mughal emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour at its height and is the best example of the culmination of Hindu & Muslim architecture. Fatehpur Sikri was Akbar's capital for approximately 12 years. Akbar selected Sikri as the seat of his government believing it to be auspicious for himself. He experimented both with architecture & art and built a city expressing his ideals & vision.

Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted, phantom city. But the inner citadel is immaculately preserved. The finest monuments within this area are the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza, the Tomb of Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti & Jama Masjid (one of the largest mosques In India). Though the city is in ruins, it is a place worth visiting. The sunset over the ruins is sight to cherish. Its Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca and has designs derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture. Entrance to this mosque is through the Buland Darwaza which was built in Gujurat and is 54 meters high. To the North of the Mosque is the dargah of Shaikh Salim Chishti. This dargah was built in 1570. Here childless women come for blessings of the saint. Even Akbar was blessed with three sons when he came here. The lattice work in the dargah is among the finest to be found anywhere.

Continue driving & arrive in Agra by late afternoon.

Check-in at the hotel.

There are very few cities in the world that can match the history & heritage of Agra.

Situated on the west bank of River Yamuna, Agra is a part of the great Northern Indian plains. The architectural splendour of the city is reflected in the glorious monuments of medieval India built by great Mughals who ruled India for more than 300 years. In the mid16^th century & earlier 17^th century, Agra witnessed a frenzied building activity & it was during this time when the symbol of love Taj Mahal was built. The buildings made during this era were purely in the contemporary Mughal style & of very high quality which is still reflected in whatever monuments remain.

The splendour of Agra remains undiminished, from the massive Agra Fort to the magnificent Taj Mahal. Monuments here depict some of the first examples of extensive marble usage in the architectural styles. Today, a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still reflects its Mughal heritage most conspicuously.

Balance of the day free to relax or to explore the Agra’s rich heritage of handicrafts in its markets or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am in the Lobby & embark on a 8 hour sightseeing tour to explore the city.

The Guide will take you back in time & help you to visualise the life in the bygone era illustrated by the majestic citadels & the serene Taj Mahal.

One knows that ‘The Taj’ is one amongst the World’s Wonders!

One knows that it is one amongst the UNESCO World Heritage Sites!!

One knows The Taj as a legend of eternal love of an Emperor for his favourite Queen!!!

Well, ‘The Taj’ has distinctions much beyond just these! Therefore, ‘The Taj’, surely, deserves your visit once & more!!! The Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India & one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.. Hailed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal’ beauty has to be seen to be believed.

Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder! Probably for Taj Mahal, the axiom is just the other way round. The Taj is the beauty personified! The Taj displays its different moods through its varied shades. The Taj has as many shades as any kind of beauty can ever have! The Taj is pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening, golden when the moon shines & the intermediary variants during different hours of the day & during different seasons in a year.

Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal, the mausoleum was completed in 1653, it took 22 years to be completed and was designed & planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. A staggering total of 20,000 workers contributed their skills, in the construction of this unique mausoleum.

Apart from its stunning design balance & perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens & some of the best inlay work ever seen.   Hailed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal’s beauty has to be seen to be believed. A visit there is a sublime experience of the greatest love story ever told.

The Mausoleum stands in a formally laid-out walled garden entered through a pavilion on the main axis. The tomb, raised on a terrace and first seen reflected in the central canal, is entirely sheathed in marble, but the mosque & counter-mosque on the transverse axis are built in red sandstone. The four minarets, set symmetrically about the tomb, "The interior of the building is dimly lit through pierced marble lattices and contains a virtuoso display of carved marble. Externally the building gains an ethereal quality from its marble facings, which respond with extraordinary subtlety to changing light & weather."

The Taj will keep you indulged with thoughts superimposing your sight & would make you feel the presence of Shah Jahan, the ‘maker’ and Mumtaz  Mahal, the ‘reason’.  As you breathlessly continue staring at ‘The Taj’, you would sense them standing beside you!

Walk along the pathway beside the reflecting pool with fountains upto the mausoleum crafted in soft & pure marble & jewelled with semi-precious stones, where in the serenity of paradise rests the Queen in peace with her King. Come to unfold the pages from the past to churn the charm out of its mystique & enrich your imagination about this marvel of an epic in stone, The Taj!

Visit the 16^th century Mughal monument known as the Red Fort of Agra. This powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses, within its 2.5 km long enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort has imposing gates & walls of red sandstone & a moat. Behind its colossal walls are some of the finest Mughal buildings in India. Construction of the fort commenced during Akbar’s reign and additions continued to be made until the rule of his grandson Shah Jahan. During Akbar’s time, it was primarily a military fort though later the focus shifted and it partially became a palace. It comprises many fairy-tale palaces, such as the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, built by Shah Jahan; audience halls, such as the Diwan-i-Khas; and two very beautiful mosques.

Last stop would be the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, also known as the 'Baby Taj' because of the architectural similarities. It showcases intricate latticework & carvings on marble to produce stunning marble screens. The delicate pietradura work done on the walls of this serene marble mausoleum with its four minarets set in the midst of a char bagh style garden is believed to have inspired the inlay work done on the Taj Mahal that was constructed on similar lines, though on an extremely grand scale.

Depending on the available time (& Tour-guide’s discretion), you may also visit Sikandara Fort, the last resting place of the Mughal emperor Akbar. Akbar was the greatest of the Mughal emperors & one of the most secular minded royalties of his time. He was the heir to a long tradition of oriental refinement, a great patron of the arts, literature, philosophy & science. Akbar's vast, beautifully carved, red-ochre sandstone tomb is set amidst a lush garden. Akbar himself planned his own tomb & selected a suitable site for it. To construct a tomb in one's lifetime was a Tartary custom which the Mughals followed religiously. Akbar's son Jahangir completed the construction of this pyramidal tomb in 1613.

Return to the hotel by late afternoon.

Balance of the day free to relax or to explore the Agra’s rich heritage of handicrafts in its markets or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

Early morning, depart for Gwalior.

Arrive by late morning & Check-in at the hotel.

The entire city is a visual & aesthetic feast, for the builders of Gwalior were great architects. Famous for its dramatic & dominant hilltop fort, which Mughal Emperor Babur reputedly described as the pearl of Indian fortresses, Gwalior makes an interesting stop en route to some of the better-known destinations in this part of India.  

The city houses the elaborate Jai Vilas Palace, the historic seat of the Scindia family, who have been playing important roles in Indian history for more than two centuries to this day.

Looming majestically at a height of nearly 100 meters overlooking the city of Gwalior is its most famous landmark - the magnificent Gwalior Fort, popularly known as the Gibraltar of India. Spread over an area of 3 sqkm, the magnificent outer walls of the Fort still stand, 35 feet high & 2 miles in length making it one of the most impregnable fortresses of Central & North India. In fact, the Mughal emperor Babar referred to the Fort as the pearl amongst fortresses in India. You will be overwhelmed by the enormity of the history, the grandeur & the tragedies that the fort witnessed by way of victories & defeats, battles & the historic jauhar. Jauhar Kund stands today in Gwalior Fort, remembering a time 800 years ago when the brave women of the fort took their own lives in order to protect their honour.

Of the temples in the Gwalior Fort, the most famous are the Telika Mandir - a 9^th century Dravidian-style shrine; the Saas-Bahu Temples - two pillared temples which stand next to each other, one larger than the other & bear a strong resemblance to Hoysala temple architecture & the Chaturbhuj Mandir, a Vaishnavite shrine dating back to the 9^th century.

Among the fort’s most prominent palaces is the elaborately ornate Man Singh Palace, built by Man Singh Tomar in the 15^th century. Decorated beautifully in vivid patterns of tile & paint, the palace spreads over four levels, and despite its picture-pretty facade, the palace has a somewhat macabre history with its lower levels being used as penitentiaries by the Mughals. Another well preserved palace is the 15^th century Gujari Mahal - a monument to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his Gujar queen, Mrignayani. 

Later in the afternoon, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed for a sight-seeing tour of this enchanting city.

Walk through the streets & you will discover old Havelis with exquisitely carved doorways & windows; at almost every street crossing you will find statues of the Scindia family. Museums & Art Galleries are treasure houses & beautifully maintained palaces give the city its inimitable regal flavour.

Sightseeing in Gwalior is a magical trip into the centuries gone by. Once you have navigated through the various gateways, you will reach some more Palaces, which are well worth a look - Karan Palace, Jehangir Mahal & Shah Jahan Mahal. 

Return to the hotel.

Evening at leisure to relax or explore on your own (we will be happy to offer suggestions).

Morning, depart for Shivpuri.

On arrival by late morning, Check-in at the hotel & relax.

Shivpuri was once the summer capital of the Scindia clan of Gwalior & earlier, its dense forests were the hunting grounds of Mughal emperors when great herds of elephants were captured by Emperor Akbar. Much later, it was the Tiger that roamed the wooded hills & many a magnificent beast was ‘bagged’ by royal Shikaris.

Shivpuri has the big attraction of its natural beauty & vast cultural heritage. The Scindia Chhatris, are the magnificent cenotaphs of maharajas & maharanis gone by - walk-in marble structures the size of large houses, with Mughal-style pavilions & sikharas (Hindu temple-spires) facing each other across a pool with a criss-cross of walkways. The Chhatri to Madhorao Scindia, built between 1926 & 1932, is exquisitely decorated with intricate pietra dura (precious & semi-precious stone inlay work). The patterns & detail of the decoration have a passing resemblance to those on some other rather famous marble building elsewhere in India. Shivpuri has numerous palaces & lakes which reminds us of the splendor this place must have seen during the rein of Scindias.

Today Shivpuri is a sanctuary for rare wildlife & avifauna. Its royal past has thus been transformed into a vibrant, hopeful present. 

Shivpuri Madhav National Park named after Madho Rao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior, is spread over an area of 355 km of degraded forest as well as lakes & grassland, just east of Shivpuri city. It is scattered with relics from the Scindias’ hunting days - a shooting box, hunting lodge and sailing club.

Apart from the fauna, another wonder stands deep in the depths of the forest. No, it is not some unique gift of nature but a castle, right in the middle of nowhere amidst the dense jungle. Legend has it that the local ruler was told that the English royal family might visit his principality for one night. The King decided to build a castle fit for their stay, even if it was for only one night, complete with well-equipped bathrooms fitted with basins, tubs & toilets. The George Castle, constructed by Maharaja Jiyaji Rao Scindia to mark King George V's visit, is the highest point of the park, from where you can see a beautiful view of Sakhya Sagar lake. The royal visitors never did come & the castle remains unoccupied to this day. The Madhav Vilas Palace, the summer forest lodge of the Scindias, is situated on the edge of the lake. The palace turrets offer a panoramic view of Shivpuri town.

The Madhav Shivpuri National Park has an abundance of wildlife & is known for its tigers, drawing many tourists every year. Tigers are bred in captivity in a protected zone in the Park & then released to roam free within the boundaries of the Park. The tigers can be seen by visitors sitting in jungle hides & shooting boxes. The tigers can only be shot by cameras now. The chances of seeing a tiger are very high during a trip to Madhav National Park & visitors usually get a chance to see this majestic animal in the wild.

The vegetation in the Park consists of grasslands interspersed with sal, teak, & khair forest and this mixed vegetation provides an ideal habitat for many species of animals & birds.

Within the Shivpuri National Park, the Sakhya Sagar artificial lake & streams running through the forest add to the charm of the wildlife reserve. The sight of birds flying back to their nests to roost at dusk, as the sun sets over the lake is a beautiful sight. You can also enjoy boating on the Sakhya Lake.

Some of the other animals you can see at Shivpuri Madhav National Park are leopards, jackals, wild boar, sloth bears, striped hyenas, crocodiles, jungle cats,many species of deer including nilgais, chitals, gazelles, four-horned antelopes & sambhar. Monkeys such as langurs & macaques can also be seen.

Avian inhabitants include bar-headed geese, ducks, spoonbills, demoiselle cranes, falcons, paradise flycatchers & golden orioles. Smaller birds such as purple sunbirds are a delight to the eye.

The Park is also a haven for birds like Migratory Pochard, Pintail, Cormorants, Painted Storks, White Ibis, Pond Herons & White-breasted Kingfishers.

Afternoon, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed to drive around town & then venture into the jungle for a chance to spot the Tigers.

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the day free to relax or walk around on your own.

Morning at dawn, proceed for another game drive.

Come back to the lodge in time for breakfast.

 Heck-out & depart for Orchha, enroute stopping at Karera Bird Sanctuary.

The thorny open areas of the Sanctuary houses the Great Indian Bustard & the equally snooty Blackbuck.

One can expect to see 3 types of bustards thriving here - the Indian bustard, bearded bustard & colored bustard. But black bucks & bustards are not the only wildlife that roam in Karera. There are many other varieties of birds & animals that have made it their habitat. The Dihaila Jheel here plays host to many migratory birds that settle here in the season. In fact, Ornithologists have recorded a total of 245 bird species in Karera. There are pintails, teals & gadwalls snoozing in the sun or squatting meditatively in the mud. There are resident water birds too like the black-bellied river terns, egrets & spoonbills. Other birds found here are herons, Indian robins, as also insects like dragonflies, damselflies & butterflies.

The black buck & Indian gazelle are the prominent habitants of this open country. Unfortunately due to lax surveillance, the black bucks seem terribly vulnerable as the locals started killing the black bucks. However, following the efforts of environmental friendly NGOs, rigorous protection measures were initiated & the consequently, the number of blackbucks here has been consistently increasing. Now, the blackbuck population in the Sanctuary numbers at around 2000, a considerable increase from the lowly 100 in 1981. The vegetation is riverine & swamp with mixed deciduous forests. Ber bushes & other wild plants are found in abundance. There are no trees except acacia throughout this forest.

Continue driving for Orchha, after a hour in the Sanctuary.

If time permits, you may also stop at another interesting place.

Datia had formerly been a state in the Bundelkhand region. The ruling family were Rajputs of the Bundela clan. The palaces at Datia & Orchha are the best surviving examples of a style of architecture that arose in the late 16^th & early 17^th centuries in the Bundelkhand area under the reign of the Bundela Rajputs.

The most famous & well preserved & an architectural wonder is the Bir Singh Palace built in 1620 by King Bir Singh Deo after whom the palace is named. Locally, the palace is also known as Govind Mandir. It was a favourite of Sir Edwin Lutyens, the man who designed most of British New Delhi.

Unlike Mughal inspired edifices, this was conceived as a single unit and therefore its form & decoration are well integrated. Erected on a rocky ridge, the Bir Singh Palace has 5 stories visible. A central dome rising to 35m caps the palace. There are many underground chambers excavated in the rock but they remain hidden from view. Suites of underground rooms hewn from solid bedrock on a series of different levels provide hot-weather accommodation.

The palace has a square plan with a domed tower at each corner. The main entrance is on the eastern side, while the south opens out to a lake, the Karna Sagar. What makes this palace special is that it is made entirely of stones & bricks with no use of wood & iron. Another 5 storeyed structure with apartments for the royalty stands in the central courtyard. It is connected by flying bridge corridors to the middle of each side. The facades are decorated with bracketed balconies, kiosks, arcades and wide eaves which create a glorious play of light and shade. Strangely enough, for all its mesmerizing beauty, the palace was never occupied and is now a well-preserved monument with some lovely murals.

Continue driving to Orchha.

Arrive by late afternoon & Check-in at the hotel.

Orchha could make towns many times its size green with jealousy. At heart, Orchha is nothing but a tiny, agricultural village that shouldn't really be of much interest to anyone, but it was blessed by history: for nearly 300 years it was one of the most important urban areas in this part of India. This has left the small town with a supreme display of Mughal-influenced Rajput architecture in the shape of spectacular palaces, temples & royal chhatris (cenotaphs). Tranquil & serene, Orchha has historically been referred to as one of India’s most beautifully preserved princely states, keeping the old Bundelkhand legacy alive.

The sleepy medieval town of Orchha is littered with the ruins of the ancient temples & forts. Orchha had the distinction of being the capital of one of the largest & most powerful kingdoms of central India. First under the Bundela Rajputs, later under Mughal rule.

When the Tughlaqs, who were ruling Delhi in the 15^th century, pushed the Bundelkhand rajas out of Garkhundar, they retreated to distant Orchha. The Bundela Rajput chieftain, Rudra Pratap Singh, founded the town of Orchha, located by the side of the beautiful boulder-strewn Betwa River, in the 16^th century, as the seat of an eponymous former princely state of central India, in the Bundelkhand region (now known as the state of Madhya Pradesh).

The buildings illustrate a fusion of Mughal & Rajput architecture, some of which is similar to that of nearby Khajuraho (albeit without such high-quality artistry) with much grander palaces & cenotaphs dotting the pastoral landscape as well. And thanks to an important temple dedicated to Rama, it is also a major pilgrimage & spiritual centre.

The medieval city of Orchha seems to have frozen in time, its palaces & temples still retaining their original grandeur.

Particularly worth visiting are the Jehangir Mahal - a tiered palace crowned by graceful chhatris, built to commemorate Emperor Jehangir’s visit in the 17^th century; the Chaturbhuj Mandir & the Lax Mandir. Complementing the noble proportions of their exteriors are the interiors which represent the finest flowering of the Bundela school of painting. Vibrant murals encompassing a variety of religious & secular themes bring the walls and ceilings to rich life.

The atmosphere in Orchha, though, is far more laid-back & hassle-free, which makes for a relaxing stay.

There are great homestay options as well as opportunities to enjoy the surrounding countryside, with walking, cycling & rafting and you will understand why Orchha can be considered one of the highlights of Madhya Pradesh. 

Balance of the day is at leisure to explore independently.

Walk around on your own, discovering the nooks & crannies of the various Forts. If time permits, you may also wander around on the encompassing farmland around the forts.

Morning, depart for  Khajuraho, driving through the rural landscape.

Arrive by noon & Check-in at the hotel.

Khajuraho is a tourist & archaeological town located in the Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh, known for its sculptured temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Jain patriarchs. The name Khajuraho is derived from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which is grown abundantly in the region.

Khajuraho was one of the capitals of the Chandela kings, who from the 9^th to 11^th CE developed a large realm, which at its height included almost all of what is now Madhya Pradesh state & contained about 85 temples built by multiple rulers. In the late 11^th century, the Chandelas, in a period of chaos & decline, moved to hill forts elsewhere.

The town continued its religious importance until the 14^th century (Ibn Batuta was impressed by it) but was afterwards largely forgotten; its remoteness probably saved it from the desecration that Muslim conquerors generally inflicted on Hindu monuments. The temple complex was discovered in the jungles of Khajuraho in 1838 by a British Army captain. Modern Khajuraho is a small village, serving the tourist trade with hotels & the Airport.

Architecturally, the Temples are built in the north Indian Nagara style. The UNESCO World Heritage listed Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh are amongst the most beautiful medieval monuments in India. Still the largest group of Hindu & Jain temples in the world, of the original group of 85, only about 25 of them remain today.

Most temples were constructed of hard river sandstone, the remaining temples are still reasonably well preserved. Both internally & externally, the Temples are richly carved with excellent sculptures that are frequently sensual &, at times, sexually explicit.

The sculptor’s fine skill & a sense of imagination have given form to human emotion in the form of spiritual & physical love. Every façade - wall, window, pillar, & ceiling - is carved with figures of mythical & historical origins, and while many of these depict full-breasted, girdle-waisted women in forms of innocent play, they also depict carnal love. In all 85 temples were built in Khajuraho, but only 22 are left to speak of the grandeur of conception of the rulers & architects of the day. The Temples rest on a risen open platform, a distinctive feature of the Khajuraho Temples, with subsidiary shrines at the 4 corners of the platform in the bigger temples.

The Temples are dedicated to a celebration of womanhood, her myriad moods & facets. India's most titillating town is famed far & wide for the erotic stone carvings that swathe the 3 groups of the Temples. The carvings include, women writing a letter, applying eye makeup, combing her tresses, dancing & playing with her child. Her innocent, blushed, charming, seductive, ardent beauty, all depicted in exquisitely sculptured details. These temples have been designed & carved to lead the eyes from ground level upward till you seem to be looking at heaven.

As we all know, sex sells, and so Khajuraho is fully on the tour bus map, but despite this, it is a delightful, quiet little village, where it is easy to while away several days walking & cycling between stunning temples & enjoying the easy-going traveller vibe.

The western group is the largest & best known, containing the magnificent Shaivite temple Kandariya Mahadev, a 31m high agglomeration of porches & turrets culminating in a spire.

The Western Group of temples, in particular, contains some stunning sculptures.

The erotic carvings that swathe Khajuraho’s three groups of temples are among the finest temple art in the world and have awed generations of people with their architectural brilliance, intricate carvings and, most famously, their erotic sculptures.

Later in the afternoon, meet the Tour-guide & proceed for a 3 hour exploration of the Temple Groups.

Come back to the hotel.

Evening at leisure (or you can go back to the Temples to enjoy an “optional” Son et Lumiere Show with a commentary encompassing the history of Khajuraho).

Early morning, depart for Bandhavgarh National Park.

Arrive by afternoon & Check-in at the lodge.

Bandhavgarh National Park is small, compact, biodiverse Tiger Reserve known for its large population of royal Bengal tigers, especially in the central Tala zone. Other animals include white tigers, leopards & deer. The mix of tropical forest, Sal trees & grassland is home to scores of bird species, including eagles. The Park is spread over ridges & valleys of the northern flank of the Vindhya Range. Its forested hills & lush low-lying meadows are dominated by a large, high rock plateau, which forms a natural fortress. The Bandhavgarh forest has a complex tapestry of habitats dominated by typically tropical moist deciduous Sal & bamboo, interspersed with marshes & meadows. Inside the forest, you can also see the remains of the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort.

If your only reason for visiting a Tiger Reserve in India is to see a tiger, look no further. A couple of days at Bandhavgarh should definitely net you a tiger sighting. India's 2018 tiger census counted 68 tigers in the 453 sq km Bandhavgarh National Park, which forms part of the Reserve's core zone. The density of the Tiger population at Bandhavgarh is the highest known in India.

Other predators you might be lucky to see include the Leopard, Wolf & Wild Dog. The lesser predators in the Park include the Jungle Cat, Indian Fox, Jackal, Ratel, Palm Civet & Mongoose. Together, they prey on the Park's abundant population of Chital, Sambar, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Indian Gazelle, Wild Boar & 4 Horned Antelope. Other mammals found here are the Sloth Bear, Pangolin, Porcupine & a variety of bats. Primates here are the Common Langur & Rhesus Macaque

Prior to being designated as a National park, the forest around Bandhavgarh had long been maintained as a Shikargah (game preserve), of the Maharajahs of Rewa. Hunting was carried out by the Maharajahs & their guests ONLY - otherwise the wildlife was relatively well-protected. 

This is also White Tiger country. These have been found in the old state of Rewa for many years. The last known was captured by Maharajah Martand Singh in 1951. This White Tiger, Mohan, is now stuffed & on display in the palace of the Maharajahs of Rewa. It was considered a good omen for a Maharajah of Rewa to shoot 109 Tigers. His highness Maharajah Venkat Raman Singh shot 111 Tigers by 1914.

You will find over 250 bird species - Northern Goshawks, Bonelli's Eagle & Eurasian Sparrow hawk are some of the raptors found here. Other birds found here are the Wood Sandpiper, Grey Nightjar, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Blue Bearded Bee Eater, Ashy-Crowned Sparrow Lark, Gold-fronted Leaf bird, Blacked Naped Monarch, Long Billed Pipit, Orange Headed Thrush & the Forest Wagtail.

Later in the afternoon around 03.00 pm, meet the Ranger & hop on to 6 Seater open 4WDs (known as Gypsies, because most of them are the Suzuki Gypsy brand) for a 3 hour game drive.

All safaris start from Tala and head into one of three zones of the national park:

Only up to 170 4WDs are allowed into the Park per day & all Safaris start from the Tala Zone which is the closest entrance from the village, driving through the deciduous forest & moderate to scanty undergrowth in flat valleys. The Reserve has a rich faunal assemblage & the scanty undergrowth allows opportunities for good game viewing.

Come back to the lodge.

Balance of the evening is at leisure.

Today, get up at dawn, meet the Ranger & depart by 05.30 am for another 3 hour game drive.

Come back in time for breakfast & relax.

Balance of day in between free for optional activities

One more game drive in the afternoon around 03.00 pm.

Balance of the day is at leisure.

Early morning, depart for Kanha.

Arrive by afternoon & Check-in at the hotel.

Madhya Pradesh is the king of the jungle when it comes to tiger parks, and Kanha is its most famous & one of the oldest in India. The forests are vast & while your chances of seeing a Tiger are probably slimmer than at nearby Bandhavgarh, this is still one of India's best Parks for sightings. The sal forests & vast meadows are home to approximately 125 tigers & 100 leopards.

Legendary for its wilderness and tiger sightings, the Reserve was immortalized by Rudyard Kipling, who set the Jungle Book adventure of Mowgli (the Wolf Boy) in these very forests.

Kanha National Park came into being in 1955 & since then, a series of stringent conservation programmes for the protection of the Park's flora &d fauna has given Kanha its deserved reputation for being one of the finest & best administered National Parks in Asia, an irresistible attraction for all wildlife lovers and a true haven for its animal & avian population.

Depletion of the tiger population in the years that followed led to the area being made an absolute sanctuary .Kanha'ssal & bamboo forests, rolling grasslands and meandering streams stretch over 940 sq km in dramatic natural splendour led it to being designated Kanha Tiger Reserve in 1974 under “Project Tiger”.

The Tiger Reserve covers 2059 sqkm including the 940 sqkm Kanha National Park which is the reserve's core zone. The reserve supports huge populations of deer and antelope, including the southern swamp deer (barasingha) which exists nowhere else. You will see plenty of langurs & varied birds, the odd gaur (Indian bison), maybe even a family or two of wild boar & perhaps a lonesome jackal or two.

Immensely rich in game, Kanha has the distinction of harbouring the last of the highly endangered Hard Ground Barasingha. This Reserve offers an excellent opportunity to see tigers, dhole (Asiatic Wild Dog) & gaur (Indian Bison). The vegetation comprises of dry woodland on hill tops interspersed with dense forests & grassy expanses at lower elevations. Sal is the dominant tree in the meadows & bamboo is more common in the higher slopes and on the hills.

The predators here are the Tiger, Leopard, Wolf, Striped Hyena and the Indian Wild Dog. The lesser predators include the Indian Fox, Common Palm Civet, Small Indian Civet, Jackal, Common and Ruddy Mongoose. The prey species also include Sambar, Chital, Blackbuck, Nilgai, Chousingha & Barking Deer. Indian Bison, Blue Bull & wild pig may also be sighted. Primates include the Common Langur & Rhesus Macaque. Other mammals found here are the Sloth Bear, Common Giant Flying Squirrel, Indian Flying Fox, Fulvous Fruit Bat, Jungle Cat, Crested Porcupine & Pangolin.

The bird count is equally impressive, with over 300 species including the Pheasant-tailed Jacana, White-eyed Buzzard, Long-billed  Vulture, Pied Harrier, Laggar Falcon, Chestnut-headed Bee-eater, Greater Coucal, Brown-Capped Pygmy Woodpecker, Eurasian Thick-knee, Brown-breasted Flycatcher, Red Avadavat, Paradise Flycatcher, Spot-Bellied Eagle Owl, Indian Pitta & the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo.

Later in the afternoon at 03.00 pm, meet the Ranger, hop on to a 6 seater 4WD Gypsy & embark on a 3 hour game drive. Safaris venture into 4 zones within the core zone, of which Kisli and Mukki zones have the best reputations for tiger sightings, followed by Kanha zone then Sarhi zone.

Come back to the hotel.

Rest of the evening at leisure.

Today, get up at dawn, meet the Ranger & depart by 05.30 am for another 3 hour game drive.

Come back in time for breakfast & relax.

Balance of day in between free for optional activities

One more game drive in the afternoon around 03.00 pm.

Balance of the day is at leisure.

Morning, depart for Raipur.

Check-in at the hotel.

The bustling capital of Chhattisgarh, Raipur is known for its vibrant steel plants - over 200 & a slew of coal & aluminium industries. But, that is not all! Raipur is also home to many stunning lakes, ancient temples and terracotta industries.

In the center of the town is the ancient Dudhadhari Math temple - a sacred monument dedicated to Lord Rama, decorated with scenes from the epic poem “Ramayana.” Nearby, a statue of the Hindu monk Swami Vivekananda towers over Vivekananda Sarovar Lake. Southeast, Purkhouti Muktangan is an open-air Museum featuring landscaped grounds, statues & tribal artifacts.

But coming here is absolutely essential because Raipur has the nearest Airport to access Kanha Tiger Reserve.

Balance of the day is free to move around on your own.

In time, you will be transferred to the Terminal? - Raipur Swami Vivekananda Airport for your flight to Delhi.

Arrive once again in the dynamic & vibrant city Delhi, one of the world’s greatest megalopolises with its chaotic charm & juxtapositions found on every street, Steeped in history yet overflowing with modern life, colourful, cacophonous Delhi pulsates with the relentless rhythms of humanity like few other cities on Earth.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal 3 - Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you the hotel. He / she will provide assistance during Check-in & discuss about your free time & the Pickup time for the Departure Transfer.

Alas, this wonderful experience comes to an end. Time to say good-bye to incredible India  & go home. But, we sure hope that you may want to discover a bit more of this multi-ethnic kaleidoscope that 1.2 billion people call home, on your next visit.

Check-out of the hotel by 12:00 noon (if the departure time is later in the evening, we will request the hotel to allow use of the hotel facilities & leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

In time, you will be transferred to Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport for your onward journey.  B

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