India’s Temples and Tigers Tour

Our  Tour features the following locations

DELHI: The largest mosque, the biggest temple, honky auto-rickshaws; it’s easy to distinguish Delhi. The city has been at the centre of the Indian civilisation for centuries and a major seat of power ever since the Mughals built their capital here. Modern Delhi presents a mix of colonial-era architecture, Mughal forts, and mausoleums, ancient bazaars, glitzy malls and world class restaurants. It often feels overwhelming, but given a chance, it always grows onto you. Be sure to visit Humayun’s Tomb, a 16th-century Mughal wonder inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal and Lodi Gardens, the best spot for sunsets in Delhi. There’s also the Hauz Khas Village, a throbbing hub that gained popularity with its Open Nights when those narrow alleys are transformed into cultural wonders, adorned with lights and decorated with streamers. There really is no better place to discover Delhi’s rich culture and mingle with its locals.

RANTHAMBORE NP: Considered to be one of the best national parks in India to see the Bengal tiger in its natural habitat, and ideally accessed either by train from Delhi or fits in nicely during a Golden Triangle tour between Agra and Jaipur. Ranthambore National Park presents a secluded oasis full of tropical dry deciduous forests and some of the most beautiful creatures you’ll ever see. Other sightings include leopard, jackal, Indian wolf, sloth bear, fox, blue bull antelope, sambar deer, chital, langur, crocodiles and an incredible variety of birds. Safaris are restricted to the mornings and evenings, so you have enough time to explore the surrounding area, visit 10th-century fortresses, discover abandoned settlements or simply enjoy the amenities offered by your luxury resort. Don’t forget to capture vivid images of your experiences, for Ranthambore is also considered to be a photographer’s dream. It presents incredible wildlife sightings, offers luxurious accommodation and also has adequate internal transportation facilities. The Tigers sighted here have found their ways to several books and movies as have the countless ruins and structures surrounding the park.

AGRA: Known for its stunning architecture, exotic history and magical views, the Taj Mahal attracts as many as 7 million visitors each year, and for a good reason. It is, after all, the monument of love! This iconic landmark is why people from all over the world visit Agra, but the city is also brimming with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Mughal mausoleums, tombs, a beautiful fort and ancient bazaars. You’d expect to feel underwhelmed due to all that hype, but this magical city is everything you expect it to be. 

CHAMBAL: Home to 8 species of turtles, one of the last few habitats of the Gangetic River Dolphin, a conservation area for 300 marsh crocodiles and 1200 alligators, the Chambal Sanctuary is probably one of the most diverse and intriguing wildlife reserves in India. It has something for all sorts of travellers, a great experience in store for safari lovers, adventure buffs and bird watchers. Chambal attracts more than 300 species of migratory and resident birds and adds animals such as wild boar, chinkara, nilgai and sambar for flavour. A number of animals found here are on the verge of extension, so you’d probably want to visit the sanctuary as soon as you can. The best time to visit Chambal is between the months of November to March.

GWALIOR: The cultural capital of Madhya Pradesh might be most famous for that spectacular hilltop fort, once defined as ‘the pearl amongst fortresses in India’ by Mughal emperor Barbur, but it also promises an interesting experience, a weekend getaway that is full of beautiful temples, exquisite architecture, and historic palaces. The city may have lost out on some of its historic beauty and regalia, but it still hasn’t lost out on any of its appeal, something that is best seen in Jai Vilas Palace, the historic seat of one of the most revered families in the country.

ORCHHA: Located on the banks of the Betwa River, Orchha is essentially a medieval town that is known for its fantastic architecture, 16th-century palaces, and cenotaphs. Once a bustling capital of one of the most powerful kingdoms of Central India, modern-day Orchha is as laid-back and stress-free as they come, one of the best destinations to de-stress. There are some great homestays in the countryside and activities like trekking, rafting and cycling are sure to fill up your itineraries. The key attraction of this historic town is the Orchha Fort, home to three magnificent palaces. The Jahangir Mahal is famous for its strong masonry, the Raj Mahal for its beautiful murals and the Rai Parveen Mahal for its serene gardens. Other places of interest include the Raja Ram Temple, Laxminarayan Temple, and Phool Bagh.

KHAJURAHO: Most visitors are surprised to hear that talking about sex is such a taboo in India. The country is after all the land that gave birth to the Kama Sutra. Perhaps a trip to the temples of Khajuraho might change how you think about this seemingly conservative nation, whose complex culture presents a new wonder at each step. You’re often left wondering how temples full of erotic structures were built in the country. And it’s not just any temple! The carvings and structures found here are incredibly stunning, considered to be the finest example of temple art in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to Jain, Shiva, and Vishnu deities and is spread over an area of 20 sq. kms. With as many as 22 temples to choose from, there’s just so much to see here!

PANNA NP: Most of the best wildlife experiences in India can be found in the heart of the country, and Panna National Park is no different. This stunning park is located at a distance of just 57 kms from the exotic temples of Khajuraho, and you really have no reason to skip out on Panna while touring Madhya Pradesh. The park is most famous for its population of big cats such as leopards and tigers, but you can also expect to see the antelope, sloth bear, crocodiles, chinkara, wolf, and chital. Its uneven rocky terrain along the Vindhya Hills feels incredibly beautiful and the stunning Ken River, cascading waterfalls, teak forests, scary ravines and Neolithic era stone paintings help keep things interesting.

BANDHAVGARH NP: Covering an area of 1150 sq. kms, Bandhavgarh National Park, is where you go to see the rare Royal Bengal tiger. Boasting of having the highest density of these coveted mammals, Bandhavgarh easily ranks among India’s most exciting safari destinations. Other sightings include leopards, wild boar, deer, langur, 70 species of butterflies and more than 250 species of birds. The best way to explore Bandhavgarh is via a jeep or an elephant safari so that you can get closer to these creatures and enjoy the most authentic safari experience. The place also has great mythological significance as Lord Ram gifted the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort to his brother Lakshman almost 2000 years ago.