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India - Realm of the Tiger | Overseas | India, Bandhavgarh

Overseas: India - Realm of the Tiger

©Pete Smart: 2006

£2,965.00

Venue:

India, Bandhavgarh (11 day)

Event Description:

The Indian sub-continent offers a series of unique habitats containing a wonderful range of wildlife, including the enigmatic Bengal Tiger. This 11 day tour concentrates on Bandhavgarh, currently India’s best reserve for seeing Tigers, with repeated sightings of more than ten individual Tigers on recent trips as well as Leopards. In 2010 we saw 15 different Tigers including males fighting, a female swimming and some beautiful cubs. For this tour, we have revised our travelling arrangements and we will use domestic flights rather than the overnight train to reach Bandhavgarh and the Tigers more quickly but we will still spend six full days within the Park!

In 1973, the Indian government established Project Tiger in order to protect a total of 23 National Parks and Sanctuaries and their Tiger populations. Although initially successful, the project has recently been criticised regarding poor monitoring techniques, its ability to stem poaching, and for allowing the growing human population to encroach into the Tiger’s habitat. Unfortunately Tiger numbers have fallen dramatically in the last few years with some estimates stating only a few thousand are left in India’s National Parks. Our visit to the park helps to support the local communities and raises awareness of the need to increase Tiger protection.

There is never any guarantee of seeing Tigers but this itinerary, with a total of 12 game drives within the park, has been designed to maximise the chances of seeing this predator in its natural environment. There is plenty to interest the wildlife lover as we also hope to see rare species such as Dhole (Asian Hunting Dogs), Sloth Bear and perhaps Leopard, together with several species of deer, monkeys and a dazzling array of birds. Our policy of having only three group members per jeep will be attractive to keen photographers who will recognise that the increased space and easier manoeuvrability of photographic equipment, will allow them room to capture stunning images of the park’s wildlife.

The accommodation at Bandhavgarh is on a full-board basis and has been selected to offer the best opportunity to enjoy the wildlife of India and its cultural heritage. In Bandhavgarh our lodge comprises charming cottages set in a secluded area of jungle with the Tala and Gori gate equally accessible.

The itinerary has been designed to maximise our time looking for Tigers and to minimise travelling time. For those with more time available, we are happy to arrange customised extensions to one or more exciting wildlife or cultural destinations within in India. This may include a couple of days in Agra to visit the beautiful Taj Mahal, continue the search for Tigers in Khana or Corbett National Park, Kaziranga to see the Indian One-horned Rhinoceros or visit the Gir National Park in northwest India to search for the elusive Asiatic Lion.

Peter Smart from Wild Arena will accompany you. Peter is a wildlife photographer, escorting wildlife tours to a variety of countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Rwanda, Namibia, India, Sri Lanka, Borneo, the Arctic, Brazil and the Galapagos Islands. Peter treats it as a genuine privilege to introduce people to the wildlife, landscapes and people of the countries he visits and his knowledge, organisational skills and sense of fun ensures that not only will you have excellent photographic and game-viewing opportunities but also a highly enjoyable holiday!

Please contact us regarding any questions you may still have or to discuss the possible extensions to this tour. You are advised to make your reservation immediately once you have decided to join us, as places are strictly limited on our journey into India’s wonderful wilderness, the Realm of the Tiger!

Please view our exciting itinerary and the gallery to see the sort of photographs you could take, then contact us to make a booking.

India, Bandhavgarh:

This tour concentrates on Bandhavgarh which remains India’s best reserve for seeing Tigers. On our 2008 trip they were seen by the group on 11 out of 12 game drives, in 2010 we saw 15 individual tigers and we have had multiple sightings of more than ten individual on other trips, as well as Leopards, Sloth Bear, Dhole and many other animals and birds.

Itinerary

14th Mar 2009 8:00: Day 1

Depart UK for flight to Delhi

14th Mar 2009 8:00: Day 12

Today we depart Delhi. Transfer to the international airport for the flight to the UK

15th Mar 2009 8:00: Day 2

Arrive Delhi where we are met and transferred to our hotel. We have time to relax and if time allows you may wish to take an optional guided sightseeing tour of some of Delhi's places of interest. This might include Rashtrapati Bhavan, once the Viceroy's residence, Sansad Bhavan, India's Parliament, India Gate, the war memorial to 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who died in World War 1 or Humayun's Tomb, the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. Overnight hotel.

16th Mar 2009 8:00: Day 3

Early morning transfer to the train station for the Shatabdi Express (6am) train to Agra. On arrival (8am) we drive 27km to the Wildlife S.O.S. Agra Bear Rescue Sanctuary. In 1972, dancing bears were finally outlawed by Parliament in India and the sanctuary provides a retirement home for the Sloth bears confiscated from the local 'Qalandar' tribe who charged for performances. The area of the sanctuary is approximately 12 acres of mixed habitats where bears roam, within electric fencing and a walled perimeter to keep the bears in and people out! Each rescued bear undergoes a 90-day quarantine period during which, it is vaccinated and checked for wounds, diseases and parasites. To date around 400 bears have been rescued including many cubs. Our visit and guided tour will benefit the centre; raise our awareness of illegal bear dancing and present many excellent opportunities to photograph these wonderful animals. We return to Agra and after lunch visit the amazing Taj Mahal where we will savour the beauty of the Taj Mahal and its surrounding gardens. Built by Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of hisbeloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this elegant mausoleum of pure white marble is an architectural marvel. There are usually many raptors in the sky above the Taj and from the raised platform at the foot of the Taj we may see Pallas's Gull and River Lapwing as we look down to the River Yamuna. Late afternoon transfer to the train station for the overnight sleeper train to Bandhavgarh. Overnight Sleeper Train.

17th Mar 2009 8:00: Day 4

Early this morning the train arrives at Katni station. From here we drive (2 hours) through local villages to our wildlife lodge, Bagh Sarai (Tiger's Home) situated a mere 3 km to the park entrance, Gori Gate and set amidst 20 acres of lush jungle. There are no other lodges or camps in the area and you will probably be the only visitors entering the park through this gate. At times it will feel like you are the only people in the park! The approach to the park gate is through Sal forest, and you are likely to see Jackals, Wild Boar, Nilgai, Langurs, Rhesus Macaques, possibly Wild Dog and even Indian Wolf has been spotted in this area. We have time to relax and settle in to our lodge before lunch. In the afternoon we take our first game drive into the park. Bandhavgarh was ahunting preserve of the Maharajas of Rewa, from where the famous White Tigers originated. The park covers 453km2 and is covered in Sal Forest, extensive stands of Bamboo and grasslands and at higher elevations by mixed forest. An ancient hill fort dominates the park and its surrounding rocky crags are home to Longbilled Vultures. Our morning

18th Mar 2009 8:00: Days 5 to 9

Early morning and afternoon game drives in the park, returning to the lodge for lunch each day. The morning safari will initially concentrate on looking for Tiger pug marks on the track and listening for alarm calls from the Chital, Sambar deer and Langur monkeys, indicating they have spotted a Tiger (or other predator) on the move. We carry a flask of tea and snacks into the park, as there are a few places where it is possible to stop, stretch legs and enjoy the refreshments. We will visit a central point in the park each morning where the park rangers will have received news of any Tiger tracking by Elephant. If the mahout's (elephant handler) tracking has been successful there is a chance to ride on the Elephants and experience a never forgotten view of the Tigers in their habitat. Back in our jeeps we continue our game drive before returning to our lodge for a late breakfast. Time is now available to explore the lodge grounds or simply relax. After lunch we re-enter the park by jeep looking for wildlife and Tigers. Just before sunset predator activity increases, Tigers, Leopards and even Sloth Bears may be spotted. Returning to our lodge there is time for a shower before dinner. As we sip a pre-dinner drink, the evening chorus of the Mottled Wood Owl in the branches of the Sal trees and packs of communicating Jackals begins. On one of our days we will also visit "Elephant Camp" to watch the mahouts preparing elephant sized chapattis and if you wish you can help feed these to the hungry Elephants. There will also be the opportunity to visit Shesh Shaiya, named after a unique 11-meter long statue of a reclining Vishnu, carved around the 10th century, from whose feet the Charanganga river is said to flow. There will be the optional opportunity to visit the fort situated on top of a plateau. The charm of this fort lies in discovering various monuments lost and unspoilt in the jungle undergrowth. The natural ramparts of the fort, which is still used as a place of worship, give breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Vultures wheel around the precipice and Blue Rock Thrushes and Crag Martins are also attracted to this area. Bandhavgarh is unique in combining excellent game and bird viewing with a historical interest which most other parks lack. Nights at lodge.

23rd Mar 2009 8:00: Day 10

We savour our last morning game drive in Bandhavgarh National Park, as in the late afternoon we will drive to Umaria (45 mins) or Katni (2 hours) for the overnight sleeper train to Delhi. Overnight Sleeper Train.

24th Mar 2009 8:00: Day 11

On arrival in Delhi we are met and transferred to our hotel. Rest of the day is free to relax or an optional sightseeing tour can bearranged. Overnight hotel.

Tutors

Gallery:

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Itinerary:

Day 1

Depart UK for flight to Delhi

Day 2

Arrive Delhi where we are met and transferred to our hotel. We have time to relax and if time allows you may wish to take an optional guided sightseeing tour of some of Delhi's places of interest. This might include Rashtrapati Bhavan, once the Viceroy’s residence, Sansad Bhavan, India’s Parliament, India Gate, the war memorial to 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who died in World War 1 or Humayun’s Tomb, the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. Overnight hotel (B)

Day 3

Morning transfer to Delhi’s domestic airport for the 1.5 hours flight to Jabalpur. From here we drive a few hours, having a picnic lunch on the way, to our wildlife lodge, Bagh Sarai (Tiger’s Home), set amidst 20 acres of lush jungle. In the late afternoon, if time allows, we will take our first game drive into the park.

Bandhavgarh was a hunting preserve of the Maharajas of Rewa, from where the famous White Tigers originated. The park covers 453km2 and is covered in Sal Forest, extensive stands of Bamboo and grasslands and at higher elevations by mixed forest. An ancient hill fort dominates the park and its surrounding rocky crags are home to Long-billed Vultures. Our morning & afternoon game drives offer us a wealth of wildlife sightings, Tiger sightings at Bandhavgarh are normally excellent due to the density of the Tiger population, the highest known in India. Our nights at Bagh Sarai and the many game drives allow us the best chance of seeing this elusive animal. Overnight lodge (B,L,D)

Days 4 to 8

Early morning and afternoon game drives in the park, returning to the lodge for breakfast or lunch each day. The morning safari will initially concentrate on looking for Tiger pug marks on the track and listening for alarm calls from the Chital, Sambar deer and Langur monkeys, indicating they have spotted a Tiger (or other predator) on the move. We carry a flask of tea and snacks into the park, as there are a few places where it is possible to stop, stretch legs and enjoy the refreshments. We will visit a central point in the park each morning where the park rangers will have received news of any Tiger tracking by Elephant. If the mahout’s (elephant handler) tracking has been successful there is a chance to ride on the Elephants and experience a never forgotten view of the Tigers in their habitat. Back in our jeeps we continue our game drive before returning to our lodge for a late breakfast.

Time is now available to explore the lodge grounds or simply relax. After lunch we re-enter the park by jeep looking for Tigers and other wildlife. Just before sunset predator activity increases, Tigers, Leopards and even Sloth Bears may be spotted. Returning to our lodge there is time for a shower before dinner. As we sip a pre-dinner drink, the evening chorus of the Mottled Wood Owl in the branches of the Sal trees and packs of communicating Jackals begins.

On one of our days we may visit Shesh Shaiya, named after a unique 11-meter long statue of a reclining Vishnu, carved around the 10th century, from whose feet the Charanganga river is said to flow. There will be the optional opportunity to visit the fort situated on top of a plateau. The charm of this fort lies in discovering various monuments lost and unspoilt in the jungle undergrowth. The natural ramparts of the fort, which is still used as a place of worship, give breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Vultures wheel around the precipice and Blue Rock Thrushes and Crag Martins are also attracted to this area. On another day we may visit Elephant Camp to watch the mahouts preparing elephant sized chapattis and if you wish you can help feed these to the hungry Elephants.

Bandhavgarh is unique in combining excellent game and bird viewing with a historical interest which most other parks lack. Nights at lodge (B,L,D)

Day 9

We savour our last morning game drive in Bandhavgarh National Park as, after lunch, we drive to Jabalpur for an overnight stay (B,L,D)

Day 10

Morning Transfer to Jabalpur airport for our flight back to Delhi, arriving early afternoon. On arrival in Delhi we are met and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or an optional sightseeing tour can be arranged. Overnight hotel (B)

Day 11

Today we depart Delhi. Transfer to the international airport for the flight to the UK

Please note that the itinerary is provisional and subject to change depending on local conditions, not all the wildlife mentioned can be seen well at all times of the year and some of the activities mentioned may not always be available.

Summary:

Duration

11 days

Single supplement

Subject to availability. If you are a single person booking this holiday you do not have to pay single supplements, if you are happy to share. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired with another single client of the same gender. However your booking is accepted only on the understanding that if no roommate is available then you accept a single supplement will be levied. Single supplements are payable if you specifically request to have a room to yourself. If you have requested single accommodation we will do our best to secure this although this may not always be possible

Deposit

£250 required to confirm booking

Travel insurance

You must be covered by insurance, which must include adequate cover for baggage, medical expenses and the cost of repatriation should you become too ill to continue, including air ambulance.

Group size

4 to 8, plus photographic guide (3 group members per vehicle to improve manoeuvrability with photographic equipment)

Cost includes

Hotel/Lodge accommodation on a twin share basis (unless single has been requested) for the nights listed in the itinerary, B&B in Delhi, all meals included, transfers for group departures using our chosen airline, all internal transport as per the itinerary, entry fees to the national parks, all wildlife activities escorted by local naturalist guides, services of Wild Arena photographic guide throughout the tour

Cost excludes

Sightseeing tours, camera and video camera fees, elephant safari in Bandhavgarh when available, international flight from the UK, airport taxes, transfers for Land Only packages and group tours when choosing your own flight arrangements, visa fees, medical examination (if required) & vaccination costs, personal expenditure, bar bills, laundry, telephone calls, etc, porters, guides & other tips, meals not specified & mineral water, personal clothing & equipment, travel insurance, optional trips, increases in park fees and taxes levied by the Government on the tourism sector, fuel surcharges, charges incurred as a result of delays beyond Classic Journeys control, anything not specified in the Cost Includes