Jhalana Leopard Safari Jaipur

jhalana leopard

Situated in Jaipur city forest, Jhalana is one of the most popular leopard habitat (more than 35 leopards in about 23 sq km) and a popular destination for nature lovers. Leopards are elusive, shy, well camouflaged animal who knows human habits well enough to remain like a ghost in the shadows. In addition to spotting leopards, the rich biodiversity of region offers you the opportunity to spot various other animals, birds, reptiles etc. Hectic but most rewarding….

Tour program:

Saturday: Start your journey very early morning (around 4 am) for Jaipur. We will have quick  breakfast & lunch en-route. We go for an exclusive half day safari in the park in the afternoon. Once done with capturing leopards in your camera, we will go back to our hotel. Tonight we will go out for dinner in a local specialty restaurant.

Sunday: Pack your breakfast and camera bag and venture into jungle for another exclusive half day safari to look for leopard & other animal and birds. After safari, we will drive back to Gurugram / Delhi We will have lunch at a local restaurant.

Tour price: Contact Us

Single room supplement: Contact Us

The above tour price includes:

  1. All intercity transfers by AC Innova
  2. Two half day exclusive jeep safari
  3. Twin sharing accommodation in a first class hotel
  4. Meals: All meals from breakfast on Saturday till lunch on Sunday
  5. Service of a tour manager
  6. All currently applicable taxes.

The cost doesn’t include:

  1. Anything not mentioned above
  2. Any expenses of personal nature.
  3. Alcoholic / non-alcoholic beverages.
  4. Photography or related equipment.
  5. Personal insurance
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Spiti Valley Snow Leopard Expedition

Snow Leopard

The tiny hamlet of Kibber in Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh is home to Himalayan Ghost – the most elusive Snow Leopards. In recent years, it has become a favorite destination for wildlife lovers and photographers, looking for snow leopard. Kibber WLS offers photography enthusiasts with the rare opportunity to see and document rare high altitude wildlife while being surrounded by snowy trans-Himalayan peaks. Let’s embark on this unique lifetime adventure – with us, in style…

Tour Itinerary 

Day 01: Arrive Chandigarh – Rampur

Arrive Chandigarh airport / railway station before noon. You will be met on arrival and driven to Rampur (approx. 8 hr drives). We will stop en-route for quick lunch. Continue driving to Rampur where will will reach by late in the evening for dinner. Overnight stay is arranged in a first class hotel at Rampur.

Day 02: Rampur – Kaza – Kibber

Star very early (with packed breakfast) as it’s another really long (about 10-12 hr) but scenic journey where you might feel tempted to stop at various corners to click photos but, we like to make sure you reach Kaza on time. Kaza is the district headquarters of Spiti and last market town where ATM, petrol pump, shops, tourist information center, bus-stop, cafes, bike rentals etc are available. However most of Kaza town is closed in winters. We continue driving to Kibber (approx. 1 hr). Time permitting; we will stop to visit Ki Monastery. In Kibber you will be escorted to your homestay and given a brief orientation of the team who would be with you, on field and in the hotel. On this day you would be requested to take complete rest as the coming days would involve extreme trekking in snow and at a high altitude.

Day 03-08: Kibber (Tracking the Himalayan Ghost “The Snow Leopard”)

The entire region around Kibber village is snow leopard territory. Apart from Snow Leopard, you may also spot other wild animals and birds like Blue sheep, Ibex, Red Fox, Golden Eagle and Himalayan Griffons etc

Usual daily routine (for 6 days) while at Kibber:

After early breakfast you will leave to explore nearby regions while spotter / scanner are out looking for snow leopard. Once we receive the information about sighting of snow leopard, we all proceed there to see and photograph it. Till then we can keep looking for Blue sheep, Ibex, Red Fox, Golden Eagle and Himalayan Griffons etc. Depending on location, we may have lunch on site or at your homestay.

Day 09: Kibber – Rampur

Start early (with packed breakfast) for another long drive to Rampur for long deserved rest after a week of high adventure in the high Himalayas.

Day 10: Rampur – Chandigarh drop

After breakfast, drive to Chandigarh from where you will board train / flight to onward destination.

Tour cost (based on min 4 persons travelling together): Contact Us

Supplement for overseas tourists: Contact Us

THE ABOVE TOUR COST INCLUDES:

    • All transfers from Chandigarh to Kibbar and back to Chandigarh by Maruty Gypsies, Mahindra Bolero or similar (4 person + manager in a vehicle)
    • Twin sharing accommodation for 9 nights as per itinerary (7 nights in a homestay at Kibber and 2 nights in Rampur in a first class hotel)
    • All meals (from Lunch on day 1 till breakfast on day 10).
    • Packages / filtered water for drinking.
    • Hot water is available on demand for taking bath etc
    • Trained guide & scanner to go ahead and search for elusive snow leopard and other wild life animals.
    • A porter for each traveler to carry personal gears and equipment.
    • Room heater in every room.
    • Service of an accompanying tour manager / photography mentor during whole trip.
    • All toll Taxes, parking, fuel and driver’s allowances.
    • Forest / wildlife fee and village development charges.
    • Walking stick and stool provided during trek for resting at site.

THE TOUR COST EXCLUDES:

    • Any kind of personal expenses such as laundry, alcoholic / non-alcoholic drinks etc.
    • Any extra arrangements caused by extension in stay (either by choice or by circumstances beyond our control)
    • Any extra expenses caused by any natural calamities like road block, landslide, heavy snowfall, avalanche etc.
    • Any charges for evacuation (manual or by air), hospitalization etc.
    • Personal equipment / gear / specialized clothing for cold weather.
    • Any other services not specified in cost inclusion.
    • Yak if needed
    • 5% GST (extra)

CANCELLATION POLICY

We realize that most people who cancel their reservations do so out of necessity or emergency.  Nevertheless, cancellation are costly to administer and involve dedicated staff time, communications costs and advance purchased bills etc. Therefore, all cancellations would be charged the following:

    • Important: 25% advance at the time booking the tour. Balance payment 60 days before the start of the tour. The advance payment is not refundable..
    • 60 days before the start of trip: 25 % of the balance (out of total cost paid)..
    • Between 30 to 59 day: 60 % of the tour balance.
    • Before 15 to 29 days: 75% of the tour balance.
    • Less than 15 days: no refund

If you fail to join a tour, join after departure, or leave it prior to its completion, no refund can be made the above cancellation fee are in additional to fee which may be levied by accommodation house properties , travel Agent  or third party tours and transport operation cancellation fee.

Cancellation due to landslide/ snowfall/Avalanche/ Bad weather:

If the tours is cancelled/ postponed due to landslide/ snowfall/ Avalanche/ bad weather condition /road blockade or any weather related problems at the last moment, no refund would be made. If due to road blockade, the guest miss a stay at next destination, full cost of the hotel stay would be charged,in addition to tariff of the hotel booked instantly by  us for their own expenses , if a particular destination is cancelled at last movement,full amount would be charged. The strict cancellation policy is practices as nature and its plays  are beyond our control . This is rare situation but can happen to anyone.

TERMS & CONDITION

    • If in case client wish to Prepone/Postpone travel date so request should reach us 30 day prior to

Journey date vie mail / WhatsApp.

    • The company reserve the right to change the package cost if in future there  is a hike in tariff  & taxes of hotels, transportation or any other service  that has been provided .
    • Customers must carry the Passport, Driving License, voter ID card or Aadhaar card. At certain sightseeing places/ hotel, the identification proof is required for which company has no control as it is
    • Check In & Check out time as per Hotel/ homestay policies. Standard check-in time is 12 noon and check-out time  is 10 AM (Early  check-in / late Check-out can be provided as per hotel /homestay’s policies &  subject to availability of rooms)
    • Company reserves the right to change the hotel/ homestay accommodation due to unavoidable circumstances. In that case we may provide alternative / similar accommodation for which we are not liable to pay any refund .we will not be responsible or liable in case of loss of property at hotel . Similarly any damage caused to the hotel room during  your stay, shall be payable by the clients and the company will not be liable for the same.

Please Note

    • The average day temperature on the Snow leopard expedition will be @ -5 Degrees C  and it can drop down to -20 Degrees C  in the night. The rooms of the homestay in Kibber has fire place to keep it warm and comfortable.
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Bera Jawai Leopard Safari

bera jawai leapord safari

Situated in Aravali mountain ranges, Bera / Jawai are one of the most popular leopard habitat and a popular destination for nature lovers. Leopards are elusive, shy, well camouflaged animal who knows human habits well enough to remain like a ghost in the shadows. In addition to spotting leopards, the rich biodiversity of region offers you the opportunity to spot various other animals, birds, reptiles etc.

Tour program:

Friday: Start very early morning from Delhi by private car (11-12 hr drive). Reach Jawai/ Bera by late evening. Dinner & overnight stay at jungle lodge/ camp.

Note: If you are arriving Udaipur by flight, we will arrange your transport from Udaipur airport to Bera / Jawai camp at extra cost.

Saturday: Early morning game safari by private jeep for spotting leopard. Return to lodge / camp for breakfast.

Proceed for another jeep safari in the afternoon to look for elusive leopard in Jawai / Bera landscape.  Return to lodge / camp for overnight stay.

Sunday: One more safari in the morning for leopard spotting. Return to lodge / camp for breakfast. After breakfast, check-out and start return drive to Delhi.

Optional bird-watching tour to Jawai Bandh:

During one of the jeep safari, we will take you to Jawai Bandh for birding. If you have interest in bird-watching, a trip to the Jawai Dam is highly recommended. It is one of the largest dam in Rajasthan and home to over 150 species migratory and resident birds. You can spot birds species like the Sarus Crane, Indian Courser, Osprey, Pelicans, Bar- Headed Geese, Water fowl, pipits, larks, sandgrouse, various raptors etc.

Tour price:  Contact Us

Single room supplement: Contact Us

The above tour price includes:

  • All intercity transfers by AC Innova
  • Exclusive jeep safari (3 safaris in private jeeps)
  • Twin sharing accommodation in a jungle lodge / camp
  • Meals: All meals from dinner on day 01 till breakfast on day 3.
  • Service of a tour manager / photography mentor.

The cost doesn’t include:

  • Anything not mentioned above
  • Any expenses of personal nature.
  • En-route meals
  • Alcoholic / non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Photography or related equipment.
  • Personal insurance

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Titli Tyar – Butterfly Festival at Corbett, Ramnagar

Butterfly Festival Logo

Butterflies are amazing. They are beautiful, with myriad shades and patterns imprinted with the love and care of Mother Nature on their delicate wings. We envisioned this Butterfly in my Backyard Titli Tyar or Butterfly Festival with an aim to develop awareness of these precious creations amongst the local community at Corbett and the scores of tourists that visit every year.

Highlights from Butterfly Festival 2021 – 17 Sep till 2 Oct.

The organizers have shared special invitations to eminent individuals from the field of nature, wildlife and conservation who have made significant contributions with a vast body of work, and who are respected authorities in their respective fields. Some of the individuals who have confirmed their participation and contribution in this annual event are:

  • Sohail Madan – an eminent butterfly expert, an integral member of BNHS and Project Manager of Conservation Education Centre at Asola Bhati Wild Life Sanctuary with in-depth knowledge on birds and the smaller species of the food chain
  • Mukul Azad – a mountaineering expert, a passionate photographer, a knowledgeable wildlife enthusiast and an Inbound Travel professional with 3 decades of unparalleled experience, all stemming from a Masters from Delhi School of Economics
  • Imran Khan – an esteemed member of the Wildlife Advisory Board, Uttarakhand, and one of the most experienced biologists and wildlife conservation experts from Corbett National Park with more than 3 decades of first hand wildlife tourism and hospitality understanding
  • Sanjay Chhimwal – an accomplished senior naturalist in Corbett with 2 decades of core wildlife experience centering on social initiatives and awareness projects
  • Gaurav Khulbe – an adventure, team building and wildlife specialist with a decade of wildlife & hospitality experience in Corbett

Titli Tyar will spread awareness on the sensitive topic of Habitat Creation for Butterflies in and around the Corbett Landscape. Our attempt is to involve the local community of Ramnagar as well as the professional individuals from various trades working in the area. The idea is to germinate the minds of populaces from every sphere of life with the beauty of these fairy like winged creatures and their importance in our ecosystem.

The principal location for this years’ Titli Tyar is the biodiversity hotspot of Kyari in the Corbett Landscape region. An amazing countryside coupled with an almost complete ecosystem, Kyari is a gem in the Corbett National Park area with an array of vegetation supporting a range of smaller species at the base of the food chain. Other areas that will be covered for Titli Tyar:

Corbett Belt – Dhikuli, Ringora, Kumeriya, Dhela, Sawaldeh | Nainital Belt – Pangot

Titli Tyar Partners

We have solicited partnership opportunities with important stakeholders in the Corbett area with businesses, especially targeting hospitality service providers. Partnering with like-minded individuals and organizations is critical for a socially powered environment to succeed. Titli Tyar is proud to be associated with the following partners:

  • Kalptaru is a voluntary group of individuals from Ramnagar who have joined hands for the cause of environment conservation primarily by way of planting and preserving trees.
  • Alaya Resort & Spa – a luxury wildlife resort located in the heart of Kyari, Corbett Landscape with a penchant for responsible tourism initiatives and promoting conservation causes

Snapshot of Events

  • Butterfly Trails – Walks with expert naturalists in the Corbett Landscape to view the world of butterflies first hand, photograph their habitats and learn their life cycles
  • Gardening – Habitat creation for butterflies involving plantation of butterfly specific plants to spur their growth and sustenance
  • Composting – Collection of food waste from hospitality sources and conversion into compost for usage in agriculture
  • Seed Bombing – Learning session for seed bomb creation and to understand the importance of this activity in general plantation and habitat enhancement
  • Cycling – Spread awareness of the health benefits of physical activity and breathing fresh air
  • Macro Photography – Knowledge Sessions to learn facets of this specific form of photography
  • Moth Watching – Communal activity involving families to witness the amazing world of moths
  • Nukkad Natak – Special impromptu skits in the local Ramnagar community to spread the word
  • Forest Bathing – Immersive forest experience with silent walks and connecting with the fauna on an organic meditative level
  • Movie Screenings & Slideshow Talks – Special arrangements for short Butterfly movies and slideshows with eminent experts in the field at strategic locations as outreach programs
  • Titli Milyun – Storytelling Sessions held across the Corbett Landscape and the Ramnagar belt with experiences being shared among the participants, and eminent personalities sharing anecdotes from the life’s work, experiences with the local culture and inspiration from the arts, crafts and food of the region

The organizers are devoting their time and effort along with limited finances to make this event successful. We humbly request for your gracious presence to extensively cover the Titli Tyar as we endeavor to reach as many areas as possible, and touch as many individuals as possible to build an environment as conducive to the protection and progress of the butterfly world. We will offer our full-fledged assistance in your travel & stay arrangements.

We look forward to your active participation and hope for a sustained coverage via a long association with the Butterflies – Titli Tyar.

Titli Tyar Package Details

 Contact Us

Titli Tyar package Inclusions

Accommodation in respective honestly / Riverside Resort / Jungle Resort

Daily breakfast

Daily Titli Tyar activities

All presently applicable taxes

Note: Kindly follow Covid Guidelines as required by Government of Uttarakhand

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Luxury Golden Triangle Tour with Oberoi Hotels

City Palace Museum jaipur

The Delhi, Agra & jaipur travel circuit, popularly known as the Golden Triangle of India, gives you an opportunity to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Taj Mahal, the Rajput splendor of the “Pink City”, and the curious mix of Old and New Delhi. In this tour you will visit formidable forts, stunning palaces, museums, monuments, colorful bazaars, enjoy traditional Indian cuisine and experience the famous Indian hospitality.

Chandni-Chowk-Delhi

Our tour of Golden Triangle lets you experience India at a leisurely pace while staying at luxurious Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. Voted as one of the best, the Oberoi hotels are ultimate in luxury & elegance, unforgettable experiences and warm, personalized service. While The Oberoi Amarvilas offers you an uninterrupted view of Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Rajvilas make you feel like a Maharaja.

Tour Plan: Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Delhi

The typical tour plan includes accommodation with breakfast, transfer & sightseeing by private chauffeur driven luxury cars, train or internal flights, experienced guides for sightseeing, entrance fee to monuments and taxes.

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi

Your luxurious Indian adventure starts with your arrival in Delhi.

You will be met on arrival and transferred to The Oberoi New Delhi – a swanky hotel, known for its hospitality and state of art facilities. Remainder of the day will be at leisure to recover from jetlag after log flight.

The-Oberoi-Hotel-Delhi-1

While The Oberoi is one of the most luxurious modern hotels in Delhi, you may consider The Imperial or The Oberoi Maidens, if you wish to stay in a hotel with colonial / historical touch.

Day 2: In Delhi

Today you will have a full tour of Old and New Delhi, enjoying the key sights and the

incredible architecture. Your private guide will explain the full history and highlights and the contrast between the Old and New regions of the city.

Delhi

The walled city of Old Delhi, guarded by the Red Fort (a World Heritage Site) was built in 1648. Its narrow alleys are dotted with countless landmarks including India’s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid and the legendary marketplace of Chandni Chowk that stocks everything from spices and perfumes, to jewellery and dress materials. A highlight of the tour is a guided walk and cycle rickshaw journey through bustling Chandni Chowk market, where you can absorb the sights, sounds and local life in the depths of Old Delhi.

jama-masjid-mosque-delhi-1

Later in the day, you will visit Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar and the impressive parliament buildings. You can spend your evening at The Oberoi hotel or go out and enjoy dinner in an Indian specially restaurant. We will be happy to suggest one.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra

A comfortable 4 hr drive will bring you to your next destination of your Luxury Golden triangle Tour – Agra.

You will be staying at The Oberoi Amarvilas for the night. For an exceptional experience, we recommend upgrading to the Premier Room with Balcony. You have a private balcony with interrupted view of the Taj Mahal. You can catch the Taj Mahal glittering in the moonlight after dark or a peachy pink at dawn. 

Your guide will meet you at your hotel to join you to explore some of Agra’s fascinating sites including the magnificent Agra Fort.

Red Fort Agra

The fort is brought to life by your guide explaining the rich history behind the beautiful architecture, before you continue on to your visit of the spectacular and incredibly special Taj Mahal. Exploring this Wonder of the World is a truly memorable moment.

Day 4: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Jaipur

Today will be another early start but worth it as you visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Viewing this incredible building in the early morning light, when the crowds are little quieter than later on in the day, is a truly magical and memorable experience.

Taj Mahal Agra

Later in the morning you will be driven to your next destination of your Luxury Golden triangle Tour – the Pink city of Jaipur.

Check into luxurious The Oberoi Rajvilas. Remainder of the day at leisure to soak into opulence of this garden hotel. Evening: Experience the traditional ‘Aarti’ (prayer) at the ancient Shiva Temple within the hotel followed by a rejuvenating spa therapy at the Oberoi Spa (guests can avail 25% discount on spa therapy)

Day 5: In Jaipur

Today your guide will join you in exploring the beautiful old Pink City of Jaipur. Start your tour by exploring the imposing Amber Fort and enjoying the fantastic views across the surrounding landscape.

Luxury Taj Mahal Tour with Oberoi Hotels

Afterwards, proceed to Jaipur’s incredible City Palace, meandering through its many courtyards, gardens and buildings with your guide.

City Palace Jaipur

You will then discover the fascinating workings behind Jantar Mantar Observatory and during your tour you will also pass by the intricate façade of the magnificent Palace of the Winds, be sure to keep your camera handy !

Jantar Mantar jaipur

Optional: In the afternoon, you may like to enjoy a wonderful elephant experience at Dera Amer. The Dera Amer is set in the forest and dinner, which is included, is in a lovely setting. Enjoy interacting with these majestic gentle giants and learn about how they feature in Indian culture.

Day 6: Jaipur – Delhi (Gurugram)

After breakfast relax and enjoy the hotel or further explore the city at your own pace. Your chauffeur is always a call away to take you anywhere you may like to go. You might like to take this opportunity to browse for interesting souvenirs in Jaipur’s famous markets and emporiums.

bapu bazar Jaipur

Later in the day, you will head back to Delhi (Gurugram) where you can spend the night in another luxurious The Oberoi Hotel.

Day 7: Depart Delhi

You will be transferred to airport in time to board your flight to onward destination.

Note: The programme mentioned in the suggested itinerary for each location is indicative of what you can do during your stay with us. However, our experienced travel specialists will assist in customizing your itinerary to suit your personal requirements.

Price: Contact Us

Like this Luxury Golden triangle Tour with Oberoi hotels? Please visit  Contact Us page to submit your query. If you wish, we will be glad to customize it to your requirements. You can ask us to add a night here and there, add activities, more sightseeing or even combine two or more tour plans for a truly spectacular experience of India.

We will work it all and send a quote to you. If you have a query, let us know. We will be happy to answer.

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Sri Lanka Wildlife Tour

Yala National Park Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka – This extraordinary island set in the Indian Ocean, off the south-eastern tip of India, has thousands of years of diverse culture. Still a predominantly Buddhist country, it also has strong Hindu, Christian and Muslim communities as well. Incredibly fertile and a great producer of exotic fruits and it was for centuries the spice producer of the world-famous sand incredibly picturesque hill country. With a strong cultural past that now offers over 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Sri Lanka was once one of the richest countries in Asia. In recent times it has not developed at the dramatic pace of its neighbors’ in the region adding to its charm and character. The relative lack of development and gentle island pace make Sri Lanka the perfect destination for those looking for a varied and stimulating holiday. From beautiful beaches, unbelievable flora and fauna (much endemic), amazing architecture as well as a vast amount of historical & religious sites, white water rafting, cycling and many other adventures for the more active and finally the friendliest of people who carry infectious smiles with them every day!

wildlife Sri Lanka

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 01 – AIRPORT – BENTOTA

(Driving time APPROXIMATELY 2 HOURS)

Arrive at Airport – Welcome by Airport Representative / Guide

Pick up guests from Airport and transfer to Bentota

Bentota Sri Lanka

Bentota, located in the Southern coastal line some 60km away from Colombo, the pride of this small town is its beautiful beaches – renowned to be the best on the West Coast and experience scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing or a jet-ski/water-ski ride.

Check in to the Hotel and freshen up

Enjoy Boat Ride at Maadu River in the late afternoon

Maadu River Sri Lanka

Maduganga River Zone, a beautiful river that is the second largest wetland in the country. Brimming with a rich eco-system nourished by the shallow water body, consists of two main islands and close to 30 islets and provides shelter to over 200 families.

Return to the Hotel

Bentota Beach Sri Lanka

Beach Leisure in the evening

Overnight stay at Hotel in Bentota

Day 02 – Bentota – Deniyaya

(Driving time approximately 03 Hours)

After breakfast Check out from hotel and leave for Deniyaya

Check in to the Hotel and freshen up

Enjoy trekking and Bird watching in the Sinharaja Rain Forest

Sinharaja Rain Forest Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve, dense, dark and mysterious – the Sinharaja is a picturesque rain forest ideal for meditation, relaxation and scientific exploration. Located at the heart of the island’s wet-zone, is the last standing rain forest on the isle.

Return Back to the Hotel

Overnight stay at Hotel in Deniyaya

Day 03 – Deniyaya  – Yala

(Driving TIME APPROXIMATELY 04 Hours & 30 MINUTES)

After breakfast  checkout from Hotel and proceed to Yala

Check in to the Hotel and freshen up

Enjoy a Bird watching Safari at the Bundala National Park in the late afternoon

Bird watching at the Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park, located within the Southeastern dry zones of this Paradise Isle. A one-of-a-kind location where the land, sea and wetlands meet, is an amazing labyrinth of thorny scrubs, waterways, lagoons and golden sand dunes.

Check in to Hotel

Beach Leisure in the evening

Overnight stay at Hotel in Yala

Day 04 – yala

(Driving time for the return journey APPROXIMATELY 45MINUTES)

After breakfast Visit Yala National Park

Morning Safari in the Yala National Park

Yala National Park Sri Lanka

Yala National Park, its magnificent sights of majestic elephants, fine-feathered peacocks, great black bears and agile leopards that steal away into the shadows of the thick foliage are unparalleled to any of the national parks in the country.

Return back to the Hotel

Leisure at Beach

Overnight stay at Hotel in Yala

Day 05 – Yala – Hambanthota – Colombo

(Driving time APPROXIMATELY 4 hours & 50 MINUTES)

After breakfast  checkout from Hotel and proceed to Hambantota

Bird Park Hambantota

Bird Park Hambantota Sri Lanka

This Birds Park is a home to endemic and exotic birds with over 180 varieties and around 3200 birds. The park which is located in the Southern part of the island expands on a landscape of 35 acres and is dedicated to create awareness and interest in wild life and the Importance of Conservation of fauna and flora.

Transfer to Galle

Check in to the Hotel and freshen up

Galle city tour (if time permits)

Galle city Sri Lanka

Galle, a living time capsule home to the largest occupied Fort in Asia. Its quaint beauty extends beyond its golden beaches, cerulean waters, the picturesque views and the rich history while walking through the narrow, cobbled streets within the Fort.

Return to the Hotel

Overnight stay at Hotel in Galle

Day 06 – Galle – AIRPORT

(Driving time APPROXIMATELY 02 Hours and 30 MINUTES)

After breakfast checkout from Hotel and leave for the airport

Departure

End of Tour

For Price Contact Us

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Sri Lanka Ramayana Tour

Sri Lanka Ramayana Tour

Sri Lanka – This extraordinary island set in the Indian Ocean, off the south-eastern tip of India, has thousands of years of diverse culture. Still a predominantly Buddhist country, it also has strong Hindu, Christian and Muslim communities as well. Incredibly fertile and a great producer of exotic fruits and it was for centuries the spice producer of the world famous sand incredibly picturesque hill country. With a strong cultural past that now offers over 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Sri Lanka was once one of the richest countries in Asia. In recent times it has not developed at the dramatic pace of its neighbours’ in the region adding to its charm and character. The relative lack of development and gentle island pace make Sri Lanka the perfect destination for those looking for a varied and stimulating holiday. From beautiful beaches, unbelievable flora and fauna (much endemic), amazing architecture as well as a vast amount of historical & religious sites, white water rafting, cycling and many other adventures for the more active and finally the friendliest of people who carry infectious smiles with them every day!

Sri Lanka Ramayana Tour

Visit, feel and discover. Feel the vivacity of this island nation, bask in this emerald isle’s intoxicating beauty and enjoy an extraordinary travel experience.  Explore Sri Lanka’s golden beaches, the glorious history, the rich wilderness and the bustling cosmopolitans and be amazed!

5N/6D Ramayana Tour of Sri Lanka

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01 – Airport – CHillaw –Negombo 

(DRIVING TIME FOR return journey APPROXIMATELY 03 hours AND 15 MINUTES)

Upon arrival, you will be introduced to your chauffeur guide and begin your journey to uncover the wonders of this island.

Proceed to Chillaw.

En route visit Punchi Katharagama Temple in Madampe 

Punchi Kataragama Temple in Madampe Sri Lanka

This neat and colorful new Replica of Kataragama temple in Madampe was dedicated to Lord Murugan in January 2012. The huge temple, situated 10 kms south of Chilaw was donated by a local businessman and land owner who is involved in the production and delivery of Today.

Visit Munneshwaram Temple in Chillaw

Munneswaram Temple in Chilaw Sri Lanka

The Munneswaram Kovil close to Chilaw is one of the 5 major Shiva temples of Sri Lanka and Rameswaram islands. They are called Ishvarams. According to a Tamil legend, the temple is situated at a place where King Rama prayed to Shiva after committing the worst crime according to Hindu Dharma, namely Brahmahasti, the killing of a priest, because Ravana who had to be killed by Rama in order to liberate Sita, was of Brahmin caste. Rama stopped the Vimana vehicle at Munneswaram because of his feeling that the Doshana sin was not following him at this place. So he ascended from the vimana and prayed to God Shiva asking for a remedy. Shiva advised Rama to install four lingams at Manavari, Trinco, Mannar and Rameswaram for this purpose.

Visit Manawari Temple

Manavari Temple Sri Lanka

Manavari, about 6 kms north of Chilaw, is the first place where Lord Rama installed a Lingam, as a remedy to Lord Shiva after committing Brahmincide by killing the King Ravana who was a Brahmin. This Shiva Lingam in Manavari is called Ramalingam because it was made by Lord Rama. There are only two Lingams in the world named after Lord Rama, the other is in Rameswaram in India.

Check-in to Hotel and Freshen up

Overnight stay at Hotel in Negombo

Day 02 – Negombo – Nuwara eliya

(Driving TIME APPROXIMATELY 05 Hours and 55 MINUTES)

After Breakfast checkout from Hotel and Leave for Nuwara Eliya

En route Visit Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple in Ramboda

Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple in Ramboda Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan branch of the Chinmaya mission, committed to promoting the Ramayana philosophy as well as Ramayana Trail pilgrimages, has built a temple with Hanuman as a presiding deity in Ramboda at the Kandy to Nuwara Eliya mainroad. There is a new five meters tall granite statue of Rama’s devote supporter. Hanuman is believed to have started his search for Sita in the Baroda hills. Hanuman traditionally was not as popular among Sri Lankan Tamil devotees as he indeed is in India, because he devastated parts of the island with his burning tail. But in recent times Hindu missionaries and local Tamil spiritual leaders began building shrines for worshiping Hanuman in Sri Lanka, too. The Tamil word for Ramboda, Rampadai, means “Rama’s force”, this is why Ramboda is believed to be the area where Rama collected his troops.

Arrive in Nuwara Eliya

Check-in  to Hotel and Freshen up

Visit Seeta Amman temple and Ashoka Watika in late afternoon

Sita Amman temple Sri Lanka

The Sita Amman Temple, located halfway between the highland village Sita Eliya and the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, has become the most venerated of all Ramayana Trail sites in Sri Lanka, because it is believed to be the place where Sita lived most of the time of her captivity on the island of Lanka. After she refused to stay in Ravana’s magnificent palace she was transferred to Ashok Vatika or Ashokavanam where she lived under Ashoka trees.

Ashoka Vatika Sri Lanka

It was here that Ravana’s wife Mandodari visited her and that Hanuman met her for the first time, identifying himself with the finger ring of Rama. Sita is said to have bathed in the nearby stream. There are remarkable holes in the rocks at the river bank believed to be footprints of Lord Hamunan

Return to Hotel

Evening at leisure

Overnight stay at Hotel in Nuwara Eliya

Day 03 – Nuwara eliya – Hakgala – Nuwara eliya

(Driving time for return journey APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES)

After Breakfast proceed to Hakgala

Visit Hakgala Botanical garden in the evening

Hakgala Botanical garden Sri Lanka

Hakgala rock surmounts the Hakgala Botanical gardens, only a few kilometres away from Ashok Vatika. It is sometimes said that Hakgala rock is one of the pieces of the Himalayas that fell down when Hanuman carried Mount Dronagiri to Lanka. But usually the Ramayana Trail identifies only 5 other places as originating from these events. Rumassala near Galle, Dolukanda in Hiripitiya, Ritigala near Habarana, Thalladi on Mannar, and Kachchativu island.

En route Visit gayatri Pitam in Nuwara Eliya

gayatri Pitam in Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka

Gayathri Pitam, also spelled Gayaththri Peedam, inside Nuwara Eliya town is the first and most important temple built for Gayathri Amman in Sri Lanka, Gayatri being an aspect of Saraswati and the Universal Mother. It was founded by the Gayathri Siddhar Swami Murusegu. The Shiva Lingam for this Tamil temple was brought from the Holy River Narmada. Gayathri Pitam is said to be the place from where King Ravana’s son Meghanath propitiated Lord Shiva with penance and worship and in turn was granted super natural powers by the mighty god

Return back to Hotel

Evening at Leisure

Overnight stay at Hotel in Nuwara Eliya

Day 04 – NUWARa ELIYA – Ella  – Nuwara Wliya

(DRIVING TIME FOR RETURN JOURNEY APPROXIMATELY 02 HOURS AND 45 MINUTES)

After Breakfast checkout from Hotel and Leave for Ella

Enroute Visit Diwurumpola

Diwurumpola Sri Lanka

Divurumpola is said to be the location where Sita underwent the famous fire ordeal Agni Pariksha, in order to prove her chastity. From the flames arose the fire god Agni who was invoked by Sita. He lifted her from the flames unharmed and presented her to Lord Rama who explained this test was only necessary to prove the truth of her purity and innocence to everybody. Divurumpola is said to have been the location of this episode, because the Sinhalese name means a ‘marketplace of oath’. Today the temple is respected as a suitable place for oaths that can be helpful in settling disputes between parties.

Visit Ravana Caves and Ravan Falls in Ella

Ravana Caves Sri Lanka

The Ravana Ella Falls and the Rawana Ella Cave are located close to the Wellawaya mainroad in the famous valley called Ella gap, only about 6 kms away from the town of Ella well known for its splendid views to the Ella gap. The cascading waterfall measures about 25 metres. It is believed that Sita bathed in a pool that accumulated the water falling from this waterfall. The nearby Rawana Ella cave is quite small, only 50 metres long. As in the case of Ishthripura Cave in Welimada, legend has it that it was used by King Rawana to hide princess Sita. It is believed to belong to a network of tunnels also connecting it to the Dova temple and to all the palaces and airports and dairy farms of King Ravana. Archaeological findings in the Rawana Cave include a human skull dating back to 20,000 BC.

Ravan Falls Sri Lanka

These tunnels prove beyond doubt the architectural brilliance of King Ravana. These tunnels served as a quick means of transport through the hills and also as a secret passage. These tunnels networked all the important cities, airport and dairy farms. A close look at these tunnels indicates that they are where a palace and a tunnel existed. Existing tunnels mouths are situated in Ishtripura at Welimada, Ravana cave at Bandarawela, Senapitiya at Halagala, Ramboda, Labookellie, Wariyapola, Matale and Sitakotuwa Hasalaka. In addition there are many more tunnels.

Return back to Nuwara Eliya

Overnight stay at Hotel in Nuwara Eliya

Day 05 – Nuwara Eliya  -Colombo

(DRIVING TIME FOR RETURN JOURNEY APPROXIMATELY 05 HOURS AND 45 MINUTES)

After Breakfast checkout from Hotel and Leve for Colombo

En route visit Mani Katthuter, Labookellie

Mani Katthuter, Labookellie

Mani Kattuther is a small and flat rock boulder within the tea plantations of Labookellie estate. It is believed that Lord Hanuman, after meeting Sitadevi, rested on this hill top on his way back to Lord Rama with the happy news of finding his missed consort. Nowadays an open temple with statues of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman stands on top of it. Locals visit the holy place frequently.

Arrive In Colombo

colombo sri lanka

Colombo, is Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and major port. A fine amalgamation of all the hues and cultures within this paradise isle. This chic metropolitan brings together the many facets of this island nation.

En route do a city tour in Colombo

Visit Hanuman Temple in Wellawatta

Hanuman Temple in Wellawatta sri lanka

Check-in to Hotel and Freshen up

Overnight stay at Hotel in Colombo

Day 06 – Colombo – Airport

(DRIVING time APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES)

After Breakfast checkout from Hotel and leave for Airport

End of Tour

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TEXTILES OF RAJASTHAN

textiles of Rajasthan

Your itinerary at a glance…..

11 March: Arrive Delhi. Stay at The Grand New Delhi Hotel for 2 nights.

12 March: Explore markets of Delhi and enjoy an orientation tour of Delhi

13 March: Fly to Udaipur. Stay at Amet Haveli for 2 nights. Evening boat ride on Lake Pichola.

14 March: Full day to explore Lahariya Printing of Udaipur and Dabu Printing of Akola.

15 March: Drive to Jalore. Stay overnight at Ravla Bhenswara. Visit Moti Bharat textile centre.

16 March: Drive to Jodhpur. Stay for 2 nights at Indana Hotel.

17 March: Visit Mehranagarh Fort in the morning. Afternoon we visit textile workshops.

18 March: Drive to Jaipur visit Bagru workshop en route. Stay at Four Point by Sheraton for 3 nights.

19 March: Enjoy Holi celebrations today!

20 March: Morning excursion to Amber Fort. Afternoon visit block printing workshop at Sanganer.

21 March: Drive to Agra for a night at Crystal Sarovar Premier.

22 March: Visit Taj Mahal before driving to Delhi. Stay at The Connaught Hotel for 2 nights

23 March: The day is at leisure to enjoy last minute shopping or visit some sights.

24 March: Fly back home

TEXTILE TOUR OF RAJASTHAN

Day 01: 11 March: Friday: Arrive Delhi

You will arrive Delhi airport (flight is self-arranged)

You will be met by our representative at the airport exit and transferred to your hotel. You will stay for next two nights at The Grand Hotel. It is a 5-star modern hotel located between city and airport. Remainder of the day is at leisure to recover from long journey.

grand hotel

The Grand Hotel, New Delhi

Delhi Information: Located on the banks of the River Yamuna, Delhi has been continuously inhabited since at least the 6th century BC. After the rise of the Delhi Sultanate, Delhi emerged as a major political, cultural and commercial city along the trade routes between northwest India and the Indo-Gangetic plains. It is the site of many ancient and medieval monuments, archaeological sites and remains. In 1639, Mughal Emperor Shahjahan built a new walled city in Delhi which served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1649 to 1857.

After the British East India Company had gained control of much  of India  during  the 18th  and  19th centuries, Calcutta became the capital both under Company rule and under the British Raj, until George V announced in 1911 that it was to move back to Delhi. A new capital city, New Delhi, was built to the south of the old city during the 1920s. When India gained independence from British rule in 1947, New Delhi was declared its capital and seat of government. As such, New Delhi houses important offices of the federal government, including the Parliament of India, as well as numerous national museums, monuments, and art galleries.

Owing  to  the  migration  of people  from  across  the  country,  Delhi  has grown  to  be  a multicultural, cosmopolitan metropolis. Its rapid development and urbanization, coupled with the relatively high average income of its population, has transformed Delhi. Today, Delhi is a major cultural, political, and commercial center of India.

Day 02: 12 March : Saturday: Delhi

Today you will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and to the old quarters of Delhi. This part of Delhi is a major hub of anything famous in India. You start at Kinari Bazaar which is top hunting ground of top end designers. You can find here all the accessories needed for clothes – from simple to top end boutique level. Then you visit the busy, bustling markets of Chandani Chowk which has the best bridal wear shops in India. Later we visit Khan Market – another place for top end, boutique shopping.

In the afternoon, we enjoy an orientation tour of Lutyens’ Delhi. You will drive past Connaught Place – called as Heart of Delhi, and then stop at India Gate. Then you will drive to Raisan Hills to see Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s Palace) from outside. Beside it is the Parliament of India.

We end the day by visiting a World Heritage Site – Humayun’s tomb. It is a complex of buildings built as the Mughal Emperor Humayun’s tomb, commissioned by Humayun’s wife Hamida Banu Begum in 1562 CE, and designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian architect. It was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, and is located in Nizamuddin East, close to the Dina-panah citadel also known as Purana Qila (old fort), that Humayun founded in 1533. It was also the first structure to use red sandstone at such a scale. The complex was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

Day 03: 13 March : Sunday: Delhi – Udaipur

After a leisurely breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport. Fly to Udaipur.

You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Stay at Amet Haveli (Lake View Room) for 2 nights.

Amet Haveli Udaipur

Amet Haveli, Udaipur

Udaipur information: Maharana Udai Singh founded Udaipur in 1559 AD. According to a legend Udai Singh was guided by a holy man meditating on the hill near Pichola Lake to establish his capital on that very spot. Surrounded by Aravali Ranges, forests and lakes this place was less vulnerable to external invasion than Chittaurgarh.  Maharana  Udai  Singh  died  in 1572  and  was  succeeded  by Maharana  Pratap  who valiantly defended Udaipur from Mughal attacks. Maharana Pratap is the most revered Rajput icon who gallantly fought the Mughals  at  the  battle  of Haldighati  in  1576.  Mewar continuously defied foreign invaders and has a history of bloody battles until the British intervention in the nineteenth century when a treaty was signed to protect Udaipur.  Upon independence, Udaipur merged with the union of India. Udaipur today is one of the most picturesque cities in Rajasthan with its lakes, hills, and beautiful palace.

Remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Udaipur city. Due to proximity of various lakes and water bodies, Udaipur is also called as “Venice of the East”. Udaipur was the setting of famous James Bond movie – Octopussy. You will enjoy a boat ride (shared seats) on Lake Pichola.

Boating in Lake Pichola

Day 04: 14 March : Monday: Udaipur

Today you visit Akola – a craft cluster near Udaipur. This region is renowned for dabu or mud resist printing. What makes Akola’s Dabu unique is their intricate motifs and premium quality dye. The artisans painstakingly carve the wooden blocks – giving each block a matchless design. The premium quality dye extracted from plants and fruits make these fabrics bleed lesser than the usual ones. What make these families stand out, are their dedication and respect for Indigo printing. Despite the soaring demand, these craftsmen have been deliberately confined to a minimal production quantity per day, to retain the quality of the fabric. Immersing the fabrics in organic dyes, they pay unconditional devotion to each and every fabric they produce. Before the printing process starts, the cloth is thoroughly washed and soaked for 36 hours, to make it soft and absorbable. The fabrics are first drip-dried, then placed on these printing tables, ready for Hand-block printing. Intricately carved hand-blocks, in numerous designs, these are dipped in a mixture of mud and tree gum and are imprinted on the fabrics. Once the block printing is done, the fabrics are dipped in indigo water craters. Then the cloth is washed thoroughly to remove the mud pattern.

Lehriya

Udaipur is well known for its Lehriya (waves) pattern. This is one of the so many tie and dye patterns that results in wavy pattern, which symbolizes water waves. Lahariya is dyed in different colours. The stripes of different colors are usually arranged diagonally and use two colors are common. The two colors alternate in waves. Originally, the two colors used were the auspicious colors of yellow and red. Turbans, stoles and saris with laheriya are liked and worn all around year but carry a special meaning on and around the time of Teej festival and monsoon.

Lehriya

Day 05: 15 March : Tuesday: Udaipur – Jalore

After breakfast, you will drive for 3-4 hours to Jalore village. Stay overnight at Ravla Bhenswara – a beautiful home of noble family of Jalore.

Rawla Bhainswara, Jalore

Rawla Bhainswara, Jalore

In the afternoon, we visit the artisans practicing Moti Bharat – a unique textile art found in Jalore. Motibharat is one among those inimitable crafts which is originated in India somewhere in the middle of nineteenth century and predominantly practiced in the Jalor district of Rajasthan but its origin can be traced to the rural part of Gujarat as well. This art extensively used beads on cloth to create interesting patterns. Traditionally the craft was used to make artifacts which are used decorating houses like toran which is used for decorating the main entrance of the house. Wall hangings, small artifacts which are used for token of gift symbolizes luck), fans, toys or decorative artifact in the shape of birds and animals, necklaces, pouches etc. Over the years, artisans have used this art into fashion accessories, brooches, necklaces etc?

Moti Bharat

Day 06: 16 March : Wednesday:  Jalore – Jodhpur

Today morning, we drive to Jodhpur – the blue city. We stay for next two nights at Indana Hotel. This is a charming hotel built in character style, swimming pool and good service.

Indana Palace, Jodhpur

Indana Palace, Jodhpur

Jodhpur is a historic city and the origin dates to the year 1459 AD when it was founded by Rao Jodha, the Rajput chieftan of the Rathores.  The Rathore kingdom was also known as the Marwar and was the largest in Rajputana. The city was  built  as  the  new  capital  of  the  state  of  Marwar  (now Rajasthan)  to replace  the ancient capital Mandore,  the ruins of which can be seen near what is now the Mandore Gardens. The people   of   Jodhpur   and   surrounding   areas   are   hence   also commonly called as Marwaris. Jodhpur is also known as the Blue City, an apt name as most houses in the old city are shades of blue. This is particularly noticeable on the north side of the town, known as Brahmpuri for the many Brahmins that live there.

Day 07: 17 March : Thursday: Jodhpur

mehrangarh fort jodhpur

Today morning, we visit the impressive Mehranagarh Fort. It lies in the heart of the old city of Jodhpur and is located atop a 125 m high hill. The magnificent Mehrangarh Fort is the most majestic and one of the largest forts in India. It was originally started (c.1459) by Rao Jodha, founder of Jodhpur. However, most of the extant fort dates from the period of Jaswant Singh (1638-78). The walls of the fort are up to 36 m high and 21 m wide; they enclose some exquisite structures. The fort museum houses an exquisite collection of palanquins, howdahs (elephant seat), royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furniture.  The ramparts of Mehrangarh Fort provide not only excellently preserved cannons but also a breath-taking view of the city.

In the afternoon, we visit the textile workshops in the city. Also visit Salawas – a small village 22 kms from Jodhpur, famous for durries(rugs) made by local craftsman. The durry (rugs) weaved out of cotton or wool. You visit Salawas Durry Udhyog to see the art of making durries. They are weaved on village looms in vibrant designs and motifs. The simplest is in single color with contrasting borders and the more complicated one 5 bore geometric patterns animal’s designs or floral designs in a mix of contrasting color.

Day 08: 18 March : Friday: Jodhpur – Jaipur

Drive to Jaipur early in the morning (6-7 hours). On the way we visit the block printing workshop at Bagru.  A small village about 20 miles East of Jaipur, Bagru is famous for traditional hand block printed textile.  The craftsmen from various places in Rajasthan – like Sawai Madhopur, Alwar, Junjjhunu and Sikar – migrated to Bagru some 300 years ago. They made it their home, and one of Rajasthan’s most important centers of hand block printing. Bagru is derived from the word ‘Bagora’ – the name of an island in a lake where the city was originally built and is famous for its palm fan and ‘chintz’ (fadat) production pattern. The traditional ‘motifs’ of Bagru have under gone change over the years. But the basic techniques and colors have remained unchanged and unaffected through these centuries. This makes the Bagru prints spectacularly different, distinctive and highly specialized. The local people, particularly the women, mainly used the Bagru prints in the past. Patterns with rich colors like the indigo blue, alizarin, iron block and bright yellow were produced on coarse cotton cloth by indigenous processed of dyeing and printing. In building up patterns, geometrical forms were adopted along with floral, animal and bird forms. Everything seemed to be inspired from local sources. Synthetic dyed have now replaced some natural dyes but their resists, their process and their sequences have hardly under gone any change. The styles and motifs have been adapted to some extent to the changing market pattern Bagru prints are characterized by circular designs, as well as linear and floral patterns.

Bagru Block Printing

We Carry on to Jaipur and stay for next three nights at Four Points by Sheraton – a comfortable 4-star modern hotel located centrally in Jaipur city.

Four Points by Sheraton, Jaipur

Four Points by Sheraton, Jaipur

Jaipur, also popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan. During the British rule in India, Jaipur was the capital of the princely state of Jaipur. Founded on 18 November, 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber, the city today has a population of more than 6 million. Jaipur is the first planned city of India, located in the semi-desert lands of Rajasthan. The city which once had been the capital of the royalty now is the capital city of Rajasthan.  The very structure of Jaipur resembles the taste of the Rajputs and the Royal families. At present, Jaipur is a major business centre with all requisites of a metropolitan city.

Day 09: 19 March : Saturday: Jaipur

Jaipur

Today is Holi – the festival of Colors! A special celebration is arranged in the hotel, followed by festive lunch. In the evening, we may venture out for a stroll in the colorful markets of Jaipur.

Day 10: 20 March : Sunday: Jaipur

Today morning, we will enjoy an excursion to Amber Fort, with a photo stop at the famous ‘Palace of Winds’. The hilltop fort of Amer can be ascended on elephant’s back or in a jeep. The fort was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachhawa clan of Amber, before the capital was shifted to present day Jaipur. Amber Fort is known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Muslim (Mughal) elements, and its ornate and breathtaking artistic mastery. Amber Fort is constructed of white and red sandstone. The Fort is unique in that its outside, an imposing and rugged defensive structure, is markedly different from its inside, an ornate, lavish interior influenced by both Hindu and Muslim (Mughal) styles of ornamentation.  The walls of the interior of the fort are covered with murals, frescoes and paintings.

Jaipur

Later we will enjoy a camel ride near Amber Fort before returning to the hotel.

Sanganer

In the afternoon, we visit Sanganer – another village famous for block printing. In both the Sanganer and Bagru prints, the colors are picked carefully. Each has a separate significance. For instance, red is the color of love, yellow of spring, indigo of Lord Krishna, and saffron of the yogi (seer). The wooden blocks that are used are made of teak wood. Traditionally, vegetable dyes made of madder, pomegranate rind, indigo, and turmeric were used. These have now been largely replaced by chemical dyes. Often, the fabric is dyed before it is printed.

The main distinguishing feature between Sanganer and Bagru printing is that Sanganer print is usually done on a white ground, whereas Bagru prints are on an Indigo or a dyed background. Local water also has its effects. In Sanganer water, block comes out in its best dark shade, while at Bagru block comes with a reddish tinge. As water has always been abundant in Sanganer, the washing of cloth has formed the main basis of printing and dyeing as compared to Bagru where water is comparatively scarce.

There are also differences in motifs. Traditionally, motifs printed at Bagru are large with bold line, as compared to Sanganer, where sombre colors and fine lines, intricate detailing is practiced. Sanganeri motifs are naturalistically rendered, with motifs usually based on flowers (like Iris, Rose, Poppy, Marigold, Sunflower) whereas Bagru motifs are more geometric shapes.

Block Printing

Block Printing Workshop

Day 11: 21 March : Monday: Jaipur – Agra

 

After breakfast drive for about 5-6 hours to Agra. Your stay for tonight is arranged at Crystal Sarovar Premier – a 4 star modern hotel.

Crystal Sarovar Premier

Crystal Sarovar Premier, Agra

Day 12: 22 March : Tuesday: Agra – Delhi

You will rise early today and head to Taj Mahal to see it before sunrise. Taj Mahal, one of the most famous buildings in the world, is the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra. Completed in 1653, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal king Shah Jahan as the final resting place for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Finished in marble, it is perhaps India’s most fascinating and beautiful monument. This perfectly symmetrical monument  took  22  years  (1630-1652)  of hard labor and 20,000 workers, masons and jewelers to build and is set  amidst  landscaped  gardens.  Built by the Persian architect, Ustad Isa, the Taj Mahal is on the bank of the Yamuna River. It can be observed from Agra Fort from where Emperor Shah Jahan gazed at it, for the last eight years of his life, as a prisoner of his son Aurangzeb. It is an acknowledged masterpiece of symmetry. Verses of the Koran are inscribed on it and at the top of the gate are twenty-two small domes, signifying the number of years the monument took to build. The Taj Mahal was built on a marble platform that stands above a sandstone one. The most elegant dome of the Taj Mahal has a diameter of 60 feet (18 m), and rises to a height of 80 feet (24 m); directly under this dome is the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan’s tomb was erected next to hers by his son Aurangzeb.  The interiors are decorated by fine inlay work, incorporating semi- precious stones

Taj Mahal

You will have a leisure time in Agra for some shopping. Late afternoon, you will be driven to Delhi (3-4 hours’ drive). Stay for 2 nights at Taj Connaught Hotel (Superior Room). This first class modern hotel is conveniently located closed to shops and restaurants.

Taj Connaught, New Delhi

Taj Connaught, New Delhi

Day 13: 23 March : Wednesday: Delhi

This day is at leisure. You can visit some of the markets again to do last minute shopping – based on your textile experience in Rajasthan. A sightseeing tour of Delhi can also be arranged on local payment.

Day 14: 24 March : Thursday: Depart Delhi

At an appropriate time, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to international airport (check-in is 3 hours prior). Fly back home with happy memories of Indian Adventure!

*** End of Tour ***

MEAL PLAN: Bed & Breakfast

For Price Contact Us

INCLUDED IN PRICE:

  • Accommodation for 13 nights on twin-share (single occupancy at a supplement).
  • Delhi – Udaipur flight in economy
  • Road travel by a private chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned vehicle
  • Assistance at airports
  • All scheduled sightseeing with English speaking local guides
  • Service of a tour manager
  • Entrance fees at the monuments
  • Block printing workshop at Bagru
  • Visit to textile workshop at Akola, Jalore and Jodhpur
  • All currently applicable taxes

 NOT INCLUDED IN PRICE:

  • International flight and airport taxes
  • India Visa Fee
  • Travel Insurance
  • Any COVID related expenses
  • Meals (Lunches & Dinners) not included in meal plan
  • Expenses of personal nature like room service items, laundry, telephone calls etc
  • Camera fees at the monuments (nominal)
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This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Luxury India Culinary Tour

samode haveli dinner

Luxury India Culinary Tour by Odin is a 12N/13D travel extravaganza that delivers rich cultural and culinary experiences from the Royal state of Rajasthan, India. This tour combines the best of hotels, heritage properties, exposure to Indian cooking techniques, a variety of foods, flavors and spices and colorful tales that will bring you back to India for more.

Destinations covered: Delhi – Jaipur – Delwara – Udaipur

Duration: 12N/13D

DETAILED PROGRAM (Subject to Change)

Day 0: DELHI, The Imperial

On arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will meet our driver who will take you to The Imperial Hotel. After settling in, guests will gather at 6:00 PM at The Imperial’s Spice Route Courtyard for an informal welcome.

the-imperial-new-delhi

Afterwards, we will share our first dinner together at Indian Accent Restaurant, the #1 Restaurant in India, and the only one to be featured on the prestigious World’s 50 Best Restaurant List. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable meal crafted by chef Manish Mehrota.

Indian Accent Restaurant

Day 02: DELHI, The Imperial

After breakfast, we will meet our food and culture expert and begin our program by immersing ourselves in Old Delhi’s Meena Bazaar and Chandni Chowk, a centenary souk-like bazaar with narrow crowded alleyways.

Old Delhi Meena Bazaar

spice market, Khari Baoli

We can depend on Seema, who knows it well, to take us to her “back streets”. We’ll visit Asia’s largest wholesale spice market, Khari Baoli, to see where spices have been traded since the 17th century, and walk through Paranthe Wali Gali (“lane of paratha-makers”) for vegetarian stuffed and fried Indian breads.

paranthe wali gali chandni chowk

Before lunch, we will visit an old Haveli (mansion) to meet a family of traditional perfume makers.

traditional perfume makers chandni chowk

Return to the hotel and rest during the afternoon and evening, relax with an ayurvedic massage, enjoy the swimming pool or explore at your own leisure.

Ayurveda

Dinner tonight will be at your discretion. This is your time to rest close in or venture out daringly to a place of your choice.

Day 03: DELHI, The Imperial

Today after a leisurely breakfast, we’ll go on a colonial walk in New Delhi. We will visit India Gate and see the Parliament and Secretariat. This is to give you a sense of place and history and not something you expected of India — wide avenues and historic perspective.

 India Gate

Afterwards, we will drive to an Indian home for a cooking demo of traditional Southern Indian home cooking, learning to use local spices and ingredients in an informal, everyday way. We will enjoy a large vegetarian lunch with our hosts and friends.

cooking demo of traditional Southern Indian home cooking

Return to the Imperial Hotel after lunch and enjoy the afternoon and evening for relaxing or optional spa treatment. Shopping opportunities at the nearby Santushti Complex, upon request.

santushti complex chanakyapuri

Free evening to rest and get ready for an early departure the following day.

*We have found that is better not to plan too many big dinners after large lunches that last until 4pm. Time differences prevent good digestion and attention the first few days, and it is best to respect the need for rest and light eating in preparation for the following days to come.

Day 04: DELHI / JAIPUR, Samode Haveli

(Shatbadi Express Train, departure 6:05 am, arrival 10:30 am)

Very early morning transfer to the New Delhi Railway station to board our train for Jaipur.

Rajasthani cuisine and spices

On arrival in Jaipur, we will meet with Thakur and Mrs. Durga Singh, our wonderful hosts for an introduction to Rajasthan cuisine and spices, followed by lunch.

Rajasthani Food

Thakur Durga Singh is an exceptional narrator and host. He is a scion of the erstwhile aristocratic family of Mandawa and brings his culture and country vibrantly alive. Durga sports not only a grand mustache but also a wonderful sense of humor.

Late afternoon transfer to our hotel. Dinner tonight at your discretion.

Day 05: JAIPUR, Samode Haveli

This morning we drive to the sprawling hilltop Amber Fort in the Aravali hills with its opulent royal apartments, halls, and dramatic views.

Climbing-amber-fort-elephant-jaipur-1

Afterward, we will visit the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing and the Brigitte Singh’s studio in a bougainvillea-covered haveli to learn about the art of woodblock printing. Her hand-printed textiles are legendary: her red poppy print is on view at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

Anokhi Museum Jaipur

Later on, we will visit an elephant sanctuary in the countryside. We will get to feed, wash and decorate the resident elephants, before sitting on their bare backs or simply strolling in the wilderness with them. Lunch al fresco.

elephant sanctuary Jaipur

Late afternoon drive back into the city. If you are up to it after a busy day, we will explore the colorful, chaotic bazaars known for their handicrafts, textiles, leather, antiques, and enamel and inlay jewelry. Dinner at the hotel.

bapu bazar Jaipur

Day 06: JAIPUR, Samode Haveli

After breakfast, we will have a guided visit to the Observatory, followed by lunch in the hotel. Free afternoon of bazaar shopping or relaxation.

Jantar Mantar jaipur

In the evening, we’ll have the pleasure of cooking on the fire with Chef Rajiv of Samode learning from his wealth of knowledge and brilliant storytelling, followed by dinner in a private dining room of the Haveli.

Samode Haveli

Day 07: JAIPUR  to CHHATRASAGAR (5-hour drive), Chhatrasagar Luxury Tents

Drive to Chhatrasagar and check into our luxurious campsite on the dam. The luxury tents offer breathtaking views of the sunrise over the lake and sunsets on the Aravali hills.

Chhatrasagar Luxury Tents

Delicious Rajasthani lunch and dinner will be enjoyed overlooking the lake. Other than meals, guests will have the afternoon and evening free to explore, go birdwatching with a scope with a few others around the lake to enjoy the beautiful locale, and to soak in some fresh air.

Later, cocktails around the bonfire while we listen to folkloric tales of jaguars and princesses.

Day 08: CHHATRASAGAR, Chhatrasagar Luxury Tents

Chhatra Sagar was built as a hunting lodge of the Nimaj Estate, surrounded by lush green fields and a 100-year-old reservoir, built by Thakur Chhatra Singh, a powerful noble of Marwar in the 19th century to create a water source for his kingdom.

Chhatrasagar jeep safari

After breakfast, we will take a jeep safari to the fennel and cumin fields accompanied by one of our hosts from the family. We will walk on the farm to the local village, visiting the elementary school and greet the ladies at the well, visit the potter, the spinner, and see how they live in a simple village, exploding with color.

Chhatrasagar

Lunch and free afternoon to enjoy the peace and quiet, and the lake views! Sunset hike to the nearby hillock for sundowners and amazing views. Dinner and all meals served by red-turbaned Rajasthani herdsmen.

Day 09: CHHATRASAGAR TO DELWARA (4.5-hour drive), The Raas Devigarh

After breakfast, we bid farewell to our friends at Chhatra Sagar, as we head to Delwara and check into Raas Devigarh. Overlooking the surrounding green hills, the hotel seems to float in the air and this is one of Peggy’s favorite spots to relax and reflect on the trips’ adventures so far. The hotel is known for their spa and the many terraces and patios where you can slow down and take it all in. Mystics still roam the ancient Aravali hills, and one can’t help but gaze at their splendor.

The Raas Devigarh

Late lunch at Devigarh. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Day 10: DELWARA, The Raas Devigarh

Before lunch, we will wander through the local village to interact with the villagers and learn more about their crafts and lifestyle. Free for lunch and afternoon at leisure to enjoy the spa and pool.

The Raas Devigarh

Dinner tonight at The Raas Devigarh.

Day 11: UDAIPUR (1 HOUR DRIVE), The Lake Palace

After breakfast, we will drive to Udaipur and explore the City Palace, a blend of stern Rajput military architecture on the outside and lavish Mughal decorative art on the inside. This palace built between the 16th and 20th centuries is the largest in Rajasthan, with a maze of royal apartments and courtyards designed to confuse invaders.

City_palace_udaipur

City Palace Udaipur

Afterwards, we will check into the fabulous Taj Lake Palacea dream of white marble and mosaic built in 1754 in the middle of Lake Pichola for the frolicking courtesans. Lunch at the Jharokha Restaurant at the hotel.

Taj Palace Hotel Udaipur

This evening, we are invited into the fabled kitchens of Neel Kamal restaurant to spend time with the beloved chefs of the Taj Lake Palace, followed by our farewell dinner.

Day 12: UDAIPUR / DELHI (1:50 PM flight) – The Trident

Free morning to relax and pack. In the afternoon, we will transfer to the Udaipur airport in time for our flight back to Delhi. On arrival at the Domestic Airport in Delhi at 3:20 PM, we will be met by a local guide, who will take us to The Trident Hotel in Gurgaon, located in close proximity to the International Airport.

trident hotel gurgaon

Guests will be free for drinks and dinner, as we prepare for our final departures.

Day 13: DEPARTURE DELHI

Breakfast at the hotel. Guests will be transferred with assistance to the International Airport for their flights.

End of Tour

For Price Contact Us

Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

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Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

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Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

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In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

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Meditation Retreat India – Kunkhet Valley Resort in Corbett

Kunkhet Valley Resort

Kunkhet Valley Resort surrounds Corbett Cricket Ground. Situated on the banks of Kosi River and Sita bani with jungle at the back, Kunkhet is a small village only 7 km away from famous Dhangahri gate of Dhikala Range. Ramnagar-Ranikhet Highway this place is away from city and deep in the Jungle and very famous for birds and wide variety of wild animals that roam freely in the area. One of its kind Kunkhet valley resort is pure vegetarian resort in the Corbett.

Kunkhet Valley Resort

As a philosophy and our love towards jungle and its inhabitants we at Kunkhet Valley Resort do not serve or allow any Non-Vegetarian food.

Our rooms are in different categories namely: Club Houses, Luxury Tents, Duplex and Cottages. All rooms are designed keeping in mind the ultimate comfort for the guests.

For Price Contact Us

Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Bhutan Birding Tour

Bhutan Birding Tour

One of the least spoilt countries in the mighty Himalayan range, Bhutan boasts incredible mountain scenery and endless verdant forests, whilst shrouded in Buddhist myth and legend and replete with a plethora of incredible and beautiful birds!

Bhutan Birding Tour

On a typical day’s birding with us in this avian wonderland, you will find yourself in breathtaking surroundings searching for legendary birds in pristine forests, with mighty Himalayan peaks towering in the distance – all in all, Bhutan is a destination like no other! As we journey through this fabled land we will regularly cross dramatic mountain passes, that are adorned with brightly colored prayer flags and chortens (temples), and these give way to vast countrysides often dominated by impressive dzongs (temple-fortresses) that so characterize this unique country. We look forward to having you aboard this adventure through a paradise of culture, birds and scenic vistas as we explore the heavenly riches of Bhutan!

Bhutan Birding Tour Map

Quick Itinerary –  Assam Extension

Day 1 Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park
Day 2 Kaziranga National Park
Day 3 Kaziranga National Park to Nameri National Park
Day 4 Nameri National Park
Day 5 Nameri National Park to Samdrup Jongkhar for those doing the main Bhutan tour or Nameri to Guwahati and departure

Quick Itinerary –  Assam Extension

Day 1 Arrive from India into Samdrup Jongkhar
Day 2 Samdrup Jongkhar to campsite near Morong
Day 3 Morong area
Day 4 Morong camp to Trashigang
Day 5 Trashigang to Lower Lingmethang Road (Yongkola)
Days 6 & 7 Lower Lingmethang Road (Yongkola)
Days 8 & 9 Lingmethang Road camp upper level (Sengor)
Day 10 Sengor camp to Bumthang
Day 11 Bumthang to Trongsa
Day 12 Trongsa to Tingtibi
Day 13 Tingtibi area
Day 14 Tingtibi to Trongsa
Day 15 Trongsa to Punakha via Pele La
Day 16 Tashitang Valley
Day 17 Punakha to Thimpu via Dochu La
Day 18 Thimpu to Paro
Day 19 Chele La
Day 20 Departure from Paro

Assam Extension Tour Plan

Duration: 4N/5D

Places Covered: Kaziranga & Nameri National Parks

Kaziranga National Park

Nestled in north-eastern India in the formerly independent Assam, Kaziranga National Park is one of the most spectacular wildernesses in all of Asia. This area gains its fame as one of the last places on earth where the prehistoric Indian One-horned Rhinoceros can be found. In fact, game abounds in the watery meadows that make Kaziranga so aesthetically pleasing – no other site in Asia can match the vast herds of big mammals that occur here! From both jeep and elephant back, we will search for Indian Elephant, Bengal Florican, Swamp Francolin, Pied Falconet and a plethora of other exciting birds and mammals that occur abundantly in this biologically diverse part of the natural world. To boot, we will also spend time exploring the riches of Nameri National Park. This park boasts luscious deciduous and evergreen forests along the Jia-Bhoroli River and is a haven for many rare creatures, including one of Asia’s rarest birds, the critically endangered White-winged Duck!

Day 1: Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park.

From the town of Guwahati, we will begin our journey to the world-renowned Kaziranga National Park. En route we will make a stop at the local refuse dump that attracts hundreds of the regal Greater Adjutant, a rare and extremely localized bird throughout most of its limited range. Guwahati remains the best place on earth to see this regal stork, while smaller numbers of the more widespread Lesser Adjutant are also attracted to this site. Citrine and White Wagtails are usually around in good numbers and Striated Grassbird and Plain and Yellow-bellied Prinias will be looked for in areas of rank grass. After soaking in the adjutant storks we will continue our journey to Kaziranga where we will arrive in time for lunch. The entire afternoon will be spent exploring the park in open gypsies, a perfect way to enjoy Kaziranga’s abundant wildlife.

Day 2: Kaziranga National Park.

This exciting wilderness of marshes, open grassland, woodlands and forest, which is situated on the floodplain of the Brahmaputra River, will be the focus of our attention for today. A total of one-third of the entire world population of Indian Rhinoceros is located in Kaziranga and we will likely enjoy incredible sightings of these highly threatened beasts. The area is also home to many eye-catching and very special birds including the rare Bengal Florican, which will be searched for in the long grass that covers huge areas of the reserve. Our best chance of viewing the endangered Florican will be from elephant back, though we will have to be lucky to see this extremely rare species! Transport will also give us our best shots at other high priority species such as the near-endemic Swamp Francolin, Baya, Streaked, Black-breasted and the rare Finn’s Weavers, as well as Chestnut-capped and Striated Babblers, Bengal Bush Lark, Rosy Pipit and Siberian Rubythroat. The critically endangered Greater Adjutant occurs alongside the Lesser Adjutant in wet areas, and we will keep our eyes peeled skywards for Pallas’s and Grey-headed Fish Eagles. Western Marsh and Pied Harriers can be found quartering over the grassland areas, and the stately Black-necked Stork is still fairly numerous throughout the region.

Kaziranga’s network of extensive wetlands is home to huge numbers of resident and migrant waterbirds, most notably the handsome Bar-headed Goose, Indian Spot-billed Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Pheasant-tailed and Bronze-winged Jacanas and the splendid Stork-billed Kingfisher, among many other species. Woodland areas are the best place to search for a number of specials, including the huge Blue-bearded and stunning Chestnut-headed Bee-eaters, Green Imperial Pigeon, Black-winged Cuckooshrike, Large Woodshrike, Lineated, Blue-throated and Coppersmith Barbets, extravagant Green-billed Malkoha, four species of gorgeous parakeets (Rose-ringed, Alexandrine, Red-breasted and the scarce Blossom-headed) and a host of woodpeckers, which includes Streak-throated, Fulvous-breasted and Grey-capped Pygmy, as well as Greater and Black-rumped Flamebacks. We will also explore small patches of evergreen forest in the area where we hope to find numerous interesting species. These include the striking Asian Fairy Bluebird, Black-crested Bulbul and Great and Oriental Pied Hornbills. More secretive species include Puff-throated and Abbott’s Babblers and White-rumped Shama. Other notable birds that we hope to see here are Yellow-footed Green Pigeon, Common Emerald Dove, Greater and Lesser Yellownapes, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Golden-fronted Leafbird, Streaked Spiderhunter and Crimson Sunbird.

Game viewing in the reserve is excellent and besides the Indian Rhinoceros, there are also plenty of wild Water Buffalo and Indian Elephant. Furthermore, Kaziranga is one of the reserves where Bengal Tiger still occurs in reasonable numbers; here they tend to favour areas where the grass is long and dense, which aids them in ambushing their main prey, Swamp and Hog Deer. We will, however, be lucky to encounter one of these regal beasts. While in the forests we will also keep our eyes and ears open for Hoolock Gibbon and Capped Langur. Other mammal species we may find include Sambar and Wild Boar, all of which frequent the grassy, watery meadows in the reserve.

Day 3: Kaziranga National Park to Nameri National Park.

We have a final opportunity for some birding in Kaziranga before lunch, after which we depart for Nameri National Park where we will arrive in the late afternoon. Upon arrival we will search an area for Oriental Hobby and if we are fortunate, Brown Hawk-Owl after dark.

Day 4: Nameri National Park.

We will have a full day to explore the forested areas of this park for our main target – the highly endangered White-winged Duck. This large forest duck inhabits forested pools and slow-flowing river channels and our chances of finding it are very good. Whilst searching for this rare species, we will also be on the lookout for other forest denizens, including the rare Pale-capped Pigeon, Pin-tailed and Wedge-tailed Green Pigeons, seldom-seen Pied Falconet, spectacular Sultan Tit, Common Green Magpie, Greater Necklaced and Lesser Necklaced Laughingthrushes, Green-billed Malkoha, Pale-chinned Blue Flycatcher, Chestnut-bellied and Velvet-fronted Nuthatches, gigantic Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Vernal Hanging Parrot, the attractive and scarce Black-breasted Thrush, Maroon Oriole, Barred Cuckoo-Dove, Wreathed and magnificent Great Hornbills and Oriental Dollarbird. In the afternoon there will be an option to either return to the forest in search of any species we may have missed in the morning or to take a boat cruise on the Jia-Bhoroli River. The river here attracts such species as Small Pratincole, Great and Indian Stone-curlews, River Lapwing, River Tern, Crested Kingfisher, Sand Lark and in winter and early spring, the incomparable Ibisbill.

Day 5: Nameri National Park to Guwahati.

In the morning, after breakfast, we depart this wonderful region and make our way to the Bhutanese border, where we begin the main tour to the Himalayan birding paradise of Bhutan. Those not doing the main tour will take a transfer back to Guwahati.

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Birding Tour Bhutan

Duration: 19N/20D

Birding Tour Bhutan

Detailed Tour Plan

Day 1: Arrive from India into Bhutan, Samdrup Jongkhar.

For those not doing the Assam Extension, the tour will begin in the Indian town of Guwahati, after which we will cross the border from India into the south-eastern corner of Bhutan where we will meet our local hosts and our Bhutanese birding adventure will begin! This tour is timed to coincide with the glorious advent of spring, offering an exceptional visual spectacle and a host of exciting and mouth-watering birds. Bhutan is a remote country, still remarkably isolated from much of the distractions of the modern world, and we are privileged to be among the lucky few to visit this fascinating land. If time allows we will do some introductory Bhutanese birding around town where we may find a few characteristically low-altitude species such as gaudy Blue-throated, Coppersmith and Lineated Barbets, Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Indian Pond Heron, Ashy Woodswallow, Cinereous Tit, Chestnut-tailed Starling and Pied and Great Mynas.

Day 2: Samdrup Jongkhar to campsite near Morong.

This morning we will begin our journey into the mountains and higher altitude forests that so characterise this fabled land. As we journey into Bhutan’s forested foothills, the transition from the vast lowland plains of India is stark and characterized by a refreshingly variable topography. We will spend the morning exploring the foothills surrounding Samdrup Jongkhar. The remnant forest patches and small stands of bamboo that hug the river outside of town support a number of exciting lowland species. Lowland specialities that we will be on the lookout for this morning include the impressive Wreathed and Great Hornbills, Mountain Hawk-Eagle, Mountain Imperial Pigeon, tiny Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpecker, Common Iora, Rufescent Prinia, bright blue Black-naped Monarch, beautiful red-and-black Scarlet Minivet, Black-crested, Ashy and Black Bulbuls, Pin-striped Tit-Babbler, Golden-fronted Leafbird, bamboo-dwelling Yellow-bellied Warbler, White-rumped Shama, outrageous Sultan Tit, brilliant Asian Fairy-bluebird and stunning Long-tailed Broadbill.

Rocky streams in the area harbour the prominently patterned Black-backed Forktail as well as Slaty-backed Forktail, White-capped and Plumbeous Water Redstarts, Grey Wagtail, Brown Dipper and Crested Kingfisher. There is also the possibility of seeing some of the area’s rarely encountered birds such as Dark-rumped Swift and Pied Falconet. If we are fortunate to find a fruiting fig tree we may be treated to a host of gaudy frugivores including hornbills, barbets and colourful species of green pigeon that are attracted to this irresistible food source.

After lunch, we will head further north, through the forested foothills, towards our campsite near Morong. The remainder of the afternoon will be spent birding a stretch of beautiful, mossy, mid-altitude broad-leaved forest. Our main target here is the extremely special and aptly-named Beautiful Nuthatch. Other interesting species we may encounter this afternoon while searching for the highly-sought nuthatch include Black-faced Warbler, Grey-headed Canary-Flycatcher, Black- Sultan, throated Bushtit, Striated Laughingthrush, Long-tailed Sibia, the sensational Silver-eared Leiothrix and awesome Rufous-necked Hornbill, to name a few.

Tonight we will enjoy the first of many nights camping throughout the country. Our comfortable canvas tents will be set up ahead of time with a picturesque view of the forested valley below. When we arrive in camp our crew of backup staff, including our own chef, will be ready to serve us tea, coffee and a hearty traditional meal.

Day 3: Morong area.

We will spend the entire day birding and exploring the lush forests around Morong. The foothill forest here pulsates with bird life and we will really be able to get stuck into the vast array of wonderful Bhutanese birds that inhabit these forests. We are sure to be entertained at breakfast by a number of delightful species such as Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler, Little Bunting, immaculate Blue-fronted Redstart and Russet Sparrow that often move through the edge of the camp in the early morning. We are also likely to see our first of many vivid Blue Whistling Thrushes, chattering Green-backed Tits, Whiskered Yuhinas, Rusty-fronted Barwings and colourful Chestnut-tailed Minlas this morning. These extremely attractive species will be seen commonly throughout the tour but are always a pleasure to encounter.

Some of the other eye-catching and vibrant species that we may see today include White-naped Yuhina, Streaked Spiderhunter, striking Orange-bellied Leafbird, secretive Blue-winged and Grey-sided Laughingthrushes, Hume’s Treecreeper, Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler, brilliant Scarlet Finch, gorgeous Black-eared Shrike-Babbler and Yellow-throated Fulvetta. Brown-flanked Bush Warblers call from forest-edge thickets and we may even see a soaring Crested Goshawk as well as Black Eagle and Rufous-bellied Hawk-Eagle overhead.

Day 4: Morong camp to Trashigang.

Today we continue our journey into the heart of the country, passing through lofty forests and rhododendron-filled valleys as we make our way to the slopes of Yongphu La. Several birding stops will be made along the way in areas of lush, verdant, montane forest. Some of the desirable species that we will be on the lookout for this morning include the much sought-after Ward’s Trogon, highly nomadic Golden-naped Finch, scarce White-spectacled Warbler, Rufous-winged Fulvetta, exquisite Green-tailed Sunbird, Yellow-cheeked and Yellow-browed Tits, White-tailed Nuthatch and Fire-breasted Flowerpecker. Himalayan Vulture can be seen soaring overhead while noisy bands of Black -eared Shrike eared Shrike scurry off the road edges. We will also keep our eyes open for the Migratory White-throated Needletail that could turn up almost anywhere.

In the late morning we will search carefully in the vicinity of the large Giant Rock Bee nests clinging to cliff faces for the rare Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, one of only two species of honeyguide found in Asia and if we are very lucky we may even happen across a Wallcreeper as we slowly meander to the top of Yongphu La. After winding our way through a series of pine-clad slopes we will arrive in the settlement of Trashigang in the late afternoon. In the vicinity of our hotel, we will have our first opportunity to experience the village life of the Bhutanese people. The local markets here showcase a great variety of sundries including grains, garlands of dried chillies, hand woven silk garments, bamboo crafts, hocks of yak meat, fermented cheese balls and colourful textiles. Trashigang is situated at the foot of a steep wooded valley, and within the town, it is possible to visit the scenic Trashigang Dzong that overlooks the confluence of the Dangme Chu and the Gamri Chu.

Day 5: Trashigang to Lower Lingmethang Road (Yongkola).

Today will be a fairly long travel day as we make our way towards Kori La passing through dry, shrubby hillsides and native Chir pine forest where we may encounter Himalayan Bulbul, Striated Prinia, Blue-capped Rock Thrush, Hodgson’s Redstart and noisy flocks of extravagant White-crested Laughingthrush. We will wind our way through breathtaking Himalayan scenery on narrow but good roads that tightly hug the dramatic slopes of the middle Himalayas.

Passing over the lofty Kori La, adorned with an array of colourful prayer flags, we will stop to search through the stands of rhododendrons and stunted growth for several mid-altitude species. Specials include Darjeeling Woodpecker, Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush, dazzling Green-tailed Sunbird, migrant Blue Rock Thrush, Grey-winged Blackbird, striking Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Slaty-blue Flycatcher, Black-faced Warbler, Rufous-winged Fulvetta, Rufous-breasted Accentor and the flame-throated Red-billed Leiothrix that moves secretively through forest undergrowth. Here we also have further chances for the rare Ward’s Trogon and Golden-naped Finch as well as the highly-elusive Black-headed Shrike-Babbler. We may also encounter nomadic seed-eaters like Crimson-browed Finch and Yellow-breasted Greenfinch.

After passing through the fair-sized village of Mongar we will drop right down to 600m and break for lunch in an open field where Rufous-necked Laughing thrushes and Crested Buntings often forage. The remainder of the afternoon will be spent birding the lowland forest patches above the town of Lingmethang. Here we may encounter the lime-coloured Common Green Magpie, Chestnut-winged Cuckoo, Slaty-backed Forktail, Yellow-vented Warbler, blue-and-white Ultramarine Flycatcher and Black-chinned and Striated Yuhinas. In the late afternoon, we will continue to our campsite on the lower reaches of the fabled Lingmethang Road where we will be based for the next three nights.

Day 6 & 7: Lower Lingmethang Road (Yongkola).

The Lingmethang Road is rightfully famous among birders and is often regarded as one of the best birding sites in all of Asia as it affords the birder an opportunity to access the seemingly endless tracts of pristine broad-leaved and coniferous forest that spans across a vast altitudinal range. All this is protected within the Thrumsing La National Park and we will spend a full five days covering the various different habitats and altitudes along this road in search of the area’s splendid diversity of birds and interesting mammals.

We are fortunate to have two full days set aside along the lower portion of the road to explore the rich forest, peppered with orchids and draped in vines and alive with the sights and sounds of some of the most wonderful birds in all of the mighty Himalayas! Likely to steal the show are several of Asia’s most sought-after birds and two of our main targets, the beautiful but rare Ward’s Trogon (the male an unbelievable pink and the female an unusual lemon yellow!) and the incomparable and endangered Rufous-necked Hornbill.

Additional delectable species we will be searching for here include flocks of busy Greater Rufous-headed and Black-throated Parrotbills, Golden-breasted and Yellow-throated Fulvettas, the shy Rufous-throated Wren-Babbler, Lesser Yellownape, Crimson-breasted Woodpecker, the vivid Asian Emerald Cuckoo, Grey-cheeked and often-elusive Broad-billed Warblers, radiant Large Niltava, White-naped Yuhina, White-tailed Robin, the much-desired Coral-billed Scimitar Babbler, unobtrusive Mountain Tailorbird, outrageous Himalayan Cutia, Little Forktail, resplendent Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird, secretive Blue-winged and Grey-sided Laughingthrushes and one of Asia’s most difficult laughingthrushes, the elusive Scaly Laughingthrush. Two of the rarest birds that we might come across here are the bizarre and once near-mythical Sikkim Wedge-billed Babbler and Long-billed Wren-Babbler.

Day 8 & 9: Lingmethang Road camp upper level (Sengor).

We will spend the next two days enjoying the fine selection of birds on offer in the upper reaches of the Lingmethang Road. The forests here exhibit well-known northern hemisphere plants such as spruce, hemlock and fir and are simply a delight to bird.
Targets in this area include Black-faced, Chestnut-crowned and Spotted Laughingthrushes, the secretive Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, shy and reticent Plain-backed Thrush, Tibetan Serin that flock in large groups, the widespread but bizarre-billed Red Crossbill, Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler, which skulks through the dense undergrowth, Green Shrike-Babbler, noisy Spotted Nutcracker, striking Golden-naped Finch, skulking Scaly-breasted Wren-Babbler and White-browed Shortwing, tiny Chestnut-headed Tesia and the delightful Bar-winged Wren-Babbler. Notably, the steep forested slopes in this area are well-renowned for harbouring one of the most stunning birds on the planet – the incredulous Satyr Tragopan – and we will endeavour to track down this regal pheasant during our time here!

Day 10: Sengor camp to Bumthang.

Today we ascend the slopes that surround Thrumsing La National Park through a diversity of habitats, including stands of bamboo where we will search hard for the large and vociferous Great Parrotbill and if we are extremely lucky the minute Fulvous Parrotbill. We can expect to be entertained by Red-billed Chough, which prefers the open montane ranges, along with Russet Sparrow and perhaps Plain Mountain Finch. We will explore the head of the pass for the dazzling Fire-tailed Sunbird, equally spectacular Fire-tailed Myzornis as well as Grey-crested and Rufous-vented Tits.

Additional species that may entertain us along our journey include Himalayan Bluetail, White-browed Bush Robin and extremely scarce and nomadic Rufous-breasted Bush Robin, the prominently marked White-collared Blackbird, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, Eurasian Wren, Dark-rumped, Dark-breasted and Common Rosefinches, Olive-backed Pipit and the erratic but eye-catching Snow Pigeon. The spectacular drive towards Bumthang then weaves through the indigenous hillside forests past rows of prayer flags and through local villages surrounded by snow-capped peaks. If the day is clear we will be able to see Bhutan’s highest peak, Gangkar Puensum, which reaches a lofty 7,541 meters and remains the highest unclimbed peak on earth!

Day 11: Bumthang to Trongsa.

Our journey this morning passes through numerous small villages and goembas (Buddhist monasteries) settled neatly within the Chume valley. Birds that we will search for along the way include the secretive Brown Parrotbill and extremely localised and subtly attractive Himalayan Beautiful Rosefinch. Passing over the top of Yotong La we can keep an eye out for migrant Eurasian Sparrowhawk and Mountain Hawk-Eagle overhead, White-browed and Golden Bush Robins, bizarre and unpredictable Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler, Spotted and Black-faced Laughingthrushes, Alpine Accentor and White-winged Grosbeak.

We will arrive at our comfortable guest house perched above the village of Trongsa, in time for lunch. Directly after lunch, we will have the opportunity to visit the spectacular Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. The wide stair rockwork and enchanting stone courtyards provide access to the elaborate internal structure, where resident monks go about their pious endeavours. Located in central Bhutan, Trongsa holds one of the most singularly magnificent dzongs in the entire kingdom, replete with magnificent architecture, an extensive history and golden roofs that glimmer in the sunlight across the valley. Situated high above Mangde Chhu, the Trongsa Dzong is a spectacular sight to behold! The remainder of the afternoon will be spent exploring the nearby broad-leaved evergreen forest in search of specialities like the handsome and boldly-patterned Spotted Forktail, mite-sized Grey-bellied Tesia and Spotted Elachura (Wren-Babbler), which has recently been placed in its own monotypic family Elachuras.

Day 12: Trongsa to Tingtibi via Zhemgang.

Today we will make our way south into the lowlands, keeping watch for species that occur in the deep vegetated valleys, farmlands and rolling hillsides along our route. Noteworthy Species that we may encounter along the way include Little Forktail, Hair-crested Drongo, Oriental Magpie-Robin (thought by many to have one of the most beautiful songs in Asia), confiding Blue-capped Rock Thrush, Speckled and White-browed Piculets, black-and-chestnut Crested Bunting, and if we are very lucky a flock of Spot-winged Starling on migration between their wintering grounds in north-east India to their breeding grounds in northern India. The mossy broad-leaved forest surrounding Zhemgang also harbours some of Bhutan’s very special birds such as Beautiful Nuthatch, Rufous-necked Hornbill and Himalayan Cutia as well as Red-faced Liocichla, Blue-winged Laughingthrush and Hodgson’s Hawk-Cuckoo. Although long, today’s drive is spectacular and the day will undoubtedly yield many avian delights!

Day 13: Tingtibi.

The rarely visited region of Tingtibi south of Zhemgang has turned up amazing birds and rarities in the past. There is a wide variety of habitat here, from mossy, evergreen forest along the main road south of Zhemgang stretching to streamside lowland forest and deciduous thickets in the valley below as well as several good patches of bamboo. The area also supports the endearing Golden Langur, a highly range-restricted monkey that is common here, while even Tiger and Sloth Bear occur in the area, but we would be extremely fortunate to encounter either of these two very rare mammals.

Some of the many lowland bird species we will be looking for include the very secretive Rufous-throated Partridge, nomadic Pin-tailed and Wedge-tailed Green Pigeons, Barred Cuckoo-Dove, stunning Red-headed Trogon, Blue-bearded Bee-eater, localised Rufous-faced and Yellow-bellied Warblers, Lesser Necklaced and Blue-winged Laughingthrushes, secretive Spotted Elachura, Grey-throated Babbler, Nepal Fulvetta, the gaudy Long-tailed Broadbill, tiny Speckled Piculet, noisy Bay Woodpecker, the giant black and yellow Sultan Tit, Banded Bay Cuckoo and Square-tailed Drongo-Cuckoo and two very rare bamboo specialists: the seldom-seen Pale-billed Parrotbill and White-hooded Babbler.

Day 14: Tingtibi to Trongsa.

A final morning birding this diverse area will allow us to seek species we might have missed before we make the return journey to the town of Trongsa. Birding stops in forested areas along our route might produce the furtive White-tailed Robin, partially-diurnal Collared Owlet, electric Common Green Magpie and Striated, Whiskered and Black-chinned Yuhinas. After a long travel day, we will arrive at our guesthouse in the late afternoon.

Day 15: Trongsa to Punakha via Pele La.

Our journey today crosses over the Black Mountains dividing western from central Bhutan at 3,420 meters. Our first scheduled birding stop today will be at a nearby colony of Nepal House Martins that build their cup-shaped nests along a sheer vertical cliff-face. Our next stop will be in an area of temperate broad-leaved forest and bamboo understory where targets include the striking Golden-breasted Fulvetta, nomadic and unpredictable Black-throated Parrotbill and the very uncommon Brown Bullfinch. As we begin our ascent up the high Pele La we may encounter the strange Wallcreeper that forages along the impossibly steep cliffs and gorges as well as the gregarious Snow Pigeon. Other species to search for here include Great Parrotbill, which prefers stands of rhododendron and bamboo, Golden Bush Robin, Long-tailed Minivet, Green-tailed Sunbird and the skulky Grey-sided Bush Warbler in thick grasses. The top of the pass may yield White-winged and Collared Grosbeaks as well as Himalayan Vulture soaring overhead.

En route the valley widens, affording us dramatic views of the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, which is stretched along a ridge above the river. Legend has it that when people were searching for a building site for the dzong, four ravens were seen flying in four directions. The people considered it an auspicious sign of the spread of religion to the four points of the compass and Wangdue Phodrang was founded in that place in 1632 with commanding views of the valley below. We will arrive late in the afternoon in the quaint settlement of Punakha.

Day 16: Tashitang Valley.

This morning we bird the lovely broad-leaved, subtropical forest along the swift Mo Chu River, situated within the substantially vast Jigme Dorji National Park. Some species we will be looking for along this route include the very rare and highly threatened White-bellied Heron, Tawny Fish Owl, Himalayan Swiftlet buzzing overhead, Crested Kingfisher, ever-vocal Great and Golden-throated Barbets, Rufous Woodpecker, Short-billed Minivet that often perch for long periods before sallying insects in midair, Bar-winged Flycatcher-Shrike, Tickell’s Leaf Warbler (one of several members of the similar-looking Phylloscopus genus), Small Niltava, Pale-blue, Dark-sided, Slaty-backed and Ferruginous Flycatchers, migratory Hodgson’s Redstart, skulking Lesser Shortwing, minuscule Slaty-bellied Tesia, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch that pick through the masses of epiphytes for insects, and Chestnut-tailed Starling.

Our route takes us beside the impressive fortress and monastery of Punakha Dzong that serves as a magnificent reminder of the Bhutanese devotion to their religion. This was the second of Bhutan’s dzongs to be constructed and until the time of the second king, it served as the seat of the Bhutanese government. Our hotel here is located outside the city on a hill above the Punakha Valley surrounded by native Pine forest, which is home to the specialised Slender-billed Oriole.

Day 17: Punakha to Thimpu via Dochu La.

We will have an early start as we make for the famed high mountain pass of Dochu La. Leaving the almost tropical Punakha Valley at 1,250 meters, we ascend through mixed evergreen and broad-leaved forests to the pass at 3,140 meters stopping en route to search for any species that we may still need in this habitat such as Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush, Pygmy Wren-Babbler, and Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon.

We will spend the mid-morning birding on the lower slopes of the pass in the beautiful, avian-rich Royal Botanical Park where a host of fabulous birds can be found. Highlights could include the handsome Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Black-winged Cuckooshrike, Grey-winged and White-collared Blackbirds, unobtrusive and mite-sized Chestnut-headed Tesia, the intensely coloured Ultramarine Flycatcher, Brown-throated Treecreeper, scarce Spot-winged Grosbeak, elusive but exquisite Fire-capped Tit, Snowy-browed Flycatcher and the shy and seldom-seen Hill Partridge. The higher slopes of the scenic Dochu La also harbour some excellent birds like the radiant-green Fire-tailed Myzornis, outrageous Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, White-browed Fulvetta and Spotted Nutcracker and, if we are very lucky, a flock of Fulvous Parrotbill may even make an appearance.

If the day is clear, the lofty pass of Dochu La affords outstanding views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, some of which top 7,500m. We will enjoy the visual splendour of the pass littered with prayer flags before descending towards our hotel located in the centre of Thimpu, the only world capital without traffic lights! The pride of the capital, the impressive Trashi Chhoe Dzong, was built traditionally without nails or the use of written plans and will be visible soon after we arrive in the area.

Day 18: Thimpu to Paro.

This morning we embark on the fairly short but scenic drive towards Paro, first scanning over a series of settling ponds where waterfowl such as Red-crested Pochard, Eurasian Wigeon, Tufted Duck and Ruddy Shelduck may be in attendance. Our drive continues through drier habitat where Himalayan Bulbul, Green-billed Malkoha, Orange-bellied Leafbird and Speckled Wood Pigeon may entertain us before we reach the icy rivers of the valley. Here we can scan for Brown Dipper as it braves the frigid waters alongside striking White-capped and Plumbeous Water Redstarts. We have the opportunity this afternoon to visit the world-renowned Tiger’s Nest Monastery that is precariously perched on a cliff-face near the town of Paro. The monastery is indeed a sight to behold and makes for a spectacularly scenic and interesting afternoon! In the late afternoon, we will settle into our comfortable hotel for our final two nights in the land of the Thunder Dragon.

Day 19: Chele La.

This morning we have an early start in order to make the most of the great birding opportunities in the forests that cloak the hills above Paro. This is a spectacular day as we will make our way directly to the high expanse of Chele La, where we will particularly be on the lookout for pheasants.
Chele La is probably the best place in the world to see the unbelievably vibrant Himalayan Monal, perhaps the most spectacular bird in the entire Himalayan range! Additional pheasants that may put on a show this morning are Blood and Kalij Pheasants as well as Satyr Tragopan. Other species we may see here include Darjeeling Woodpecker, Himalayan White-browed Rosefinch, the bright Red-headed Bullfinch, Collared and White-winged Grosbeaks, high-flying Plain Mountain Finch, the warbler-like Goldcrest, retiring Rufous-breasted Accentor, elusive but sometimes vocal Long-tailed Thrush, giant Spotted Laughingthrush and perhaps even a lone Eurasian Woodcock concealed motionless on the forest floor.

In the late afternoon, we will search along the Paro Chu for the secretive Black-tailed Crake, Pin-tailed Snipe, Rosy Pipit and one of the most sought after shorebirds in the world – the beautiful Ibisbill. This elegant wader, placed in its own monotypic family, is often found as it searches for food amongst the boulders of fast flowing streams in the region. As the afternoon draws to a close we will return to our accommodation for a farewell dinner while reminiscing over our adventures shared during the past three weeks.

Day 20: Departure from Paro.

Today, after an incredible journey through one of the most remarkable countries on earth, the tour concludes in Paro after breakfast. Be sure to stay awake on the steep flight out of the valley as it provides some of the most dramatic scenery of any scheduled flights in the world – in fact, given clear weather on the Delhi flight, you can gaze over the summit of Mount Everest, the highest mountain peak in the world, surrounded by other astoundingly high Nepalese peaks; a fitting ending to the Bhutanese mountain kingdom experience!

For Price Contact Us

This includes:
• All meals from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 20 for those on the main tour, and from breakfast on day 1 to lunch on day 5 for those on the Assam extension;
• Visa fees for Bhutan only;
• Bottled drinking water;
• All lodgings;
• Ground transportation;
• Reserve entrance fees; and
• All guiding services (including tips for local guides and services).

The tour fee does not include:
• Visa fees (for India);
• ANY flights;
• Any beverages;
• Special gratuities;
• Telephone calls and Single Supplement: The single supplement cost for this tour will be charged if you wish to have single accommodation. If RBL cannot provide you with a rooming partner for these nights although you choose to share, the single supplement will become applicable. We will make all reasonable efforts to ensure that a rooming partner is found if you do wish to share.

Notes:
a) Due to constantly fluctuating exchange rates, we quote our tours in 4 currencies. The tour price is however fixed only in the currency printed in bold, and the actual cost in the other currencies listed will be adjusted according to prevailing exchange rates at the time of final invoicing (usually 4 months before the tour.) The same applies to approximate flight and single supplement rates, which are also quoted in the respective fixed currency.
b) Rates are based upon group tariffs; if the tour does not have sufficient registration a small party supplement will have to be charged.
c) Furthermore, these costs are subject to unforeseen increases in tour related costs and may have to be adjusted as a result.
d) Lastly, we may be forced to change or alter the itinerary and / or the designated Rockjumper leader/s at short or no notice due to unforeseen circumstances; please be aware that we will attempt to adhere as close to the original program as possible.
Tipping: As noted above, gratuities (drivers, hotel staff, restaurants etc.) are included on this tour. However, this does NOT include your Rockjumper leader/s. If, therefore, you feel that he/they have given you excellent service, it is entirely appropriate to tip them.

Special Notes:
• The current order of the main itinerary, with the tour beginning in the south and east of the country, is unique among tour operators and allows us to travel in the opposite direction to the other birding groups that will be present in the country during the high season for birders.
• Be aware that some of the passes that we will traverse are at altitudes of around 13 000 feet. This can cause altitude problems for some people and means that the temperatures tend to be quite low on these days. We can also expect rain and possibly even snow on some days of this tour. If you have problems with altitude please do let the Rockjumper office know. Very hot conditions with high radiation for sunburn are also likely to be encountered in the southern areas of the country on a few days of the tour.
• On some nights we will stay a long way from any solid accommodations or civilisation and will be using camping facilities set up by our agents. There will be walk-in, comfortable-for-two tents with cots, sheets, pillows, and blankets. While our ground agents do provide comfortable and warm sleeping bags, you may bring your own sleeping bag if you prefer. If participants would prefer a tent to themselves please advise the office. Single tent space is limited and will be assigned in order of tour registration.
• While the food is generally good and tasty, it can become quite monotonous as not many different dishes are prepared. The food can also be quite spicy at times. Please be sure to let us know of your dietary requirements in advance of the tour.
• Bhutan is still relatively untouched by tourism and the people are friendly and courteous. It is seen as being inappropriate to hand out any sweets or other things to interested bystanders or anyone we may encounter along our tour. Your sensitivity in this regard would be much appreciated.

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Nepal Birding Tour

Nepal Birding Tour

 

Nepal Birding Tour Overview

Duration: 18N/19D

Places Covered: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Annapurna and Chitwan

Nepal Birding Tour Itinerary

Day01: Godawari community forest/Phulchauki Hill

After a early or pack breakfast, you depart for Phulchowki located to 18km southeast of Kathmandu. Phulchauki Hill (2760m) is the highest hill of valley rim in Kathmandu Valley, that offers a perfect introduction to the birds of Nepal. In the area, the regularly recorded resident species area- Black Eagle, Mountain Hawk Eagle , Kaligj Pheasant, Common Hill Partridge , Ashy Woodpigeon, Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon, Mountain Scops Owl, Collared Owlet, Golden-throated Barbet, Speckled Piculet Crimson-breasted Pied and Rufous-bellied Pied Woodpeckers, Grey-chinned Minivet, Striated Bulbul, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Spotted Forktail, Chestnut-headed and grey-bellied Tesias, Chestnut-crowned and black faced Warblers, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Lesser Scaly-breasted Wren-Babbler Streak-breasted Scimitar-Babbler, Grey-throated and Black-chinned Babblers, White-crested, striated, Rufous-chinned and grey-sided Laughing thrushes, Red-billed Leiothrix, Himalayan Cuttia, White-browed Green and Black-eared Shrike-Babblers, Hoary-throated Barwing, Blue-winged Minla, Nepal Fulvetta, Yellow-browed Tit, Brown-throated Treecreeper, Black-throated Sunbird, Maroon Oriole, Eurasian and Lancelated Jays, Red-billed Blue Magpie and Brown Bullfinch. And about 50 species of birds have been known to visit the area as migratory or passage migrants.

Phulchauki’s forest is also rich in flora and butterflies. And some of the main mammals inhabiting the forest include Common Leopard, Muntjac, Monkeys both Rhesus and Common langur with Yellow throated Marten and Orange-bellied Squirrel.

After enjoying the great day at Godawari and Phulchauki you will return drive and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02: To Pokhara 930m, 7 hours

The drive to Pokhara is very scenic, that also provide you to explore some more parts of the country with a stop over to check out the Trishuli riverside for this iconic species Ibissbill that spends its winter down in lowland and travels back to mountains for breeding. Lunch will be provided on the way. Once arrived in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel. Time permitting, you will explore the lakeside for birds and enjoy the excellent views of the Annapurna Range and Phewa lake.

Day03: Day at Pokhara

Today you will explore the hill side forest in the north of Pokhara above the Phewa lake. And along  with numerous species of birds, the excellent view of amazing Annapurnas and Machhapuchra peaks will be very rewarding, that Pokhara is famous. Species of birds today can be seen  includes – Red-thighed Falconet, Pallid and Pied Harriers, Eurasian Griffon, Red-headed and Eurasian Black Vultures, Kalij Pheasant, Puff-throated Babbler, White-crested and Rufos-chinned Laughing Thrushes, Red-billed Laiothrix, Minivetts, Crimson Sunbird, Maroon Onole, Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo, Red-billed and Green magpies, Long-tailed Mountain Thrush, Chestnut-headed and Grey-bellied niltavas and snowy-brown Flycatcher, Long-tailed Broadbill, White-tailed Robin, Spiny Babbler, white-browed Scimitar-Babbler, Bulbul, Black-backed Forktail, Pale blue Flycatcher with  Ducks, Gulls, Waders, Terns by the lakeside

Return to Hotel after a great birding adventure today!

Day04: Thulokot 2100m, 6-8 hours

After a short drive to Phedi (40minute), you start your birding adventure. The trail through the forest makes steep climb to arrive on the terraced field and settlement with the view around. The sight and sound of Great Barbet, Treepie and Magpie with the soaring of vultures on the side is lovely. The trail makes another short climb to emerge on the ridge, that is a lower Dhampus to continue to main village, where you will have lunch. And continuing through the forested ridge with the view with chances of seeing many vultures and other species of birds will be a great sight before we arrive at Thulokot, one of the best place where the raptor counts is going on every year in autumn season.

Day05: To Modi Riverside 1400m, 5-6 hours

Wake up early to enjoy the Himalayan view with beatiful birds sound around. Do birding around in thye morning before breakfast. The trail today is through the forest ridge,creeks and hillside before coming out in open at Tolka to contine to Landruk to desecnd steeply down to Modi Riverside for the overnight lodge. Birds thatb is likely seen along the trail today includes  Red-headed and Eurasian Vulture, Black and Bonelli’s  Eagles , Mountain Hawk-Eagle, Common Hill Partridge, Striated Bulbul, Speckled and Ashy Woodpigeons , Barred Cuckoo-Dove, Collared  Owlel, Upland Pipit, Golden-throated Barbet , Bay and Crimson-breasted Pied Woodpeackers , Slaty-backed and Spoted Forktails , Chesnut-headed Tesia, Chestnut-crowned and Black-faced Warblers , Rufous-bellied Niltava, White-crested and Striated Laughing-thrushes , Red-billed Leiothrix , Himalayan Cutia , Rufous Sibia, Nepal Fulvetta, Yellow-browned Tit , Black-throated Sunbird , Yellow-billed Blue and Green Magpie, Cinnamon Sparrow , Jungle Nightjar , Pacific Swift , Blue-capped  Rock-Thrush, Tickell’s Thrush, Little Pied Flycatchers and many more species.

Day06: To Bhainsi Kharka 2300, 5-6 hours

The trail today makes a steep climb to the large village of the area, Ghandruk (2000m) and contineu a gradual climb to end the forest and few beautiful streams to arrive at Bhaisi Kharka (Buffalo pasture) for the overnight.

Area from Ghandruk is really good for numerous species of Laughing Thrushes and Warblers with many other birds.

Day07: To Deorali 3050m, 6-7 hours

Today, the trail takes us through the beautiful forest of oak and Rododendrons, in a easy path to arrive at Tadapani to descend down to Banthati. Tadapani also offers a close up view of Annapurna and other peaks, on a clear day.The trail now following the streams, on a narrow gorge, makes climb to the saddle of Deorali for the overnight. Many birds including Brown Dipper, Water Restarts, Forktails, Thrushes etc can be seen today along the trail.

Day08: To Chitre 2450m, 5-6 hours

The trail today descends through forest, look out for the monkeys and other wild animals such as Rgesus Macaque, Grey Langur, Red Fox, Yellow-throated Marten, Bharal  and Orange-bellied Squirrel etc., passing the pastures or clearing and streams.

The birds likely to be seen today includes the raptors such as Black Eagle and Northern Goshwak, pheasant such as Koklas, Kalij and Himalayan Monal( winter), Common Hill Partridge, with Eurasian Woodcock, AshyWoodpigeon, Collared  Owlet, Tawny Owl, Honey Guide, Rufous-breasted Bush Robins, Elue-capped Redstart , Plain-backed and Long-tailed Mountain Thrushes, White-collared and Grey-winged Blackbirds, Chestnut and Mistle Thrushes, Chestnut-headed Tesia , Black-faced Warbler, Greater Scaly-breasted Wren-Babbler , Great, Brown and Black-throated Parrotbills,Striated,Spotted and Black-faced Laughing-Thrushes, White-browed ang Green Shrike-Babblers,Hoary Earwing, Black-browed , Yellow-browed and Grey-crested Tits, Bar-tailed Treecreeper , Lancelot  Jay, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Eurasian Nutcracker, Red-browed Finch,Eurasian Goldfinch,Common  Crossbill, Plain Mountain-Finch , Collared Crossbeak, Rosefinches and Bullfinches.

Day09: To Banthanti 2350m, 5-6 hours
After enjoying great birding around, we set on the trail that makes a gradual and steep climb to Ghoreoani with beautiful forests of Oak and Rhododendron.The trail after Ghorepani descends down through another beautiful forest and creeks to Banthati. The trail is rich in numerous species of birds.

Day10: Birthanti 1200m, 5-6 hours

The trail descent steeply, pass Ulleri and cross the river on a suspenses bridge to Tirkhedhunga and ease out to the valley to follow the thr river to arrive at Birethanti on the confluence of Modi. Among many species of bird around Tirkhedhunga, we might get the chance to see and hear Spiny Babbler and Green Magpie, Rufous-bellied Niltava.

Day1: To Pokhara 930m, 6-7 hours

After breakast and little exploration around, we take the trail that climbs steeply to Chandrakot and then to Lumle and Kande with Naudanda, that is also an excellent hillside to watch vultures and many other birds of prey.

In the afternoon, we will drive back to Pokhara for about couple of hours and overnight hotel

Day16: To Chitwan
After breakfast, travel to Chitwan and transfer to the resort near the Chitwan national park. The journey on the road can take some 5-6 hours. Arrival in the resort is followed by checkin and lunch and exploration in the afternoon

Days 17-18: In Chitwan for exploration trip inside and outside the national park.

Full extra coupel of ndays are best to explore the area of national parks inside and outside, that are done on Jeep Safari, boat trip and walks mainly with optional Elephant back safari, that is upto you to use it as most people are opting out for the use of Elephant for this purpose. Chitwans national park with an area of some 1000 sqaure km is the first and finest national nature parks of the country. Chitwan is the heaven for bird life with well over 600 species of birds that includes some of very rare, endangered, globally threatened, wintering, summer visitors, passage migrants and residents birds. Among all these the birds that can be enjoyed there includes – Common and Demoiselle Cranes, Cormorants, Darter,Cinnamon Bittern, Black-crowned  Night and Purple Herons, Asian Openbill, Woolly-necked and Lesser Adjutant Storks , Lesser  Fishing and Grey Headed Fish Eagle , Brown Fish Owl, Crested Treeswift, Pied and Great Hornbills, Great Slaty (largest woodpecker of the world), Streak-throated,Grey-header, Grey-crowned Pygmy, Rufous, Himalayan Golden-backed and Greater Golden-backed Woodpeckers, Large Woodshrike, Rosy Minivet, Black-crested Bulbul, Golden fronted Leafbird, Pale-chinned Flycatcher, Black-napped Monarch, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Indian and Blue-naped Pitta, Puff-throated Babbler, White-browned Scimitar-Babbler, Grey- throated Babbler, Crimson Sunbird, Thick-billed Flowerpecker, Hill Mynah, Black-hooded oriole, White-rumped Shama, Lesser Necklaced, Greater Necklaced and Rufous-necked Laughing-Thrushes, Nepal Fulvetta, Streaked Spiderhunter, Yellow-bellied Warbler, Rufous-bellied Eagle, Forest Eagle, Tawny Fish Owls, Red-headed Trogon, White-browned Piculet, Long-tailed Broadbill, Ruby-cheeked Sunbird and Little Spierhunter and many more…

Chitwan national park is also rich in other biodiversity including many major wildlife such as Great one horned Rhinoceros, four species of Deer, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Common Leopard, Gaur (Bison) including the big cat- the Royal Bengal Tiger. Gharial and Marsh Magar Crocodile, Python, Monitor Lizard with many other kinds of reptiles and amphibians are found.

Day19: Travel back to Kathmandu

End of tour.

Optional Add on

Phulchauki Birds

From: Kathmandu

Day trip- 7-8 hours

Recommended start time from Kathmandu for lower Phulchauki : 6-7AM

Upper Phulchauki: 5-6 AM

After a early or pack breakfast, you depart for Phulchowki located to 18km southeast of Kathmandu. Phulchauki Hill (2760m) is the highest hill of valley rim in Kathmandu Valley, that offers a perfect introduction to the birds of Nepal.

Golden-throated Barbet

In the area, the regularly recorded resident species area- Black Eagle, Mountain Hawk Eagle , Kaligj Pheasant, Common Hill Partridge , Ashy Woodpigeon, Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon, Mountain Scops Owl, Collared Owlet, Golden-throated Barbet, Speckled Piculet Crimson-breasted Pied and Rufous-bellied Pied Woodpeckers, Grey-chinned Minivet, Striated Bulbul, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Spotted Forktail, Chestnut-headed and grey-bellied Tesias, Chestnut-crowned and black faced Warblers, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Lesser Scaly-breasted Wren-Babbler, Streak-breasted Scimitar-Babbler, Grey-throated and Black-chinned Babblers, White-crested, striated, Rufus-chinned and grey-sided Laughing thrushes, Red-billed Leiothrix, Himalayan Cuttia, White-browed Green and Black-eared Shrike-Babblers, Hoary-throated Barwing, Blue-winged Minla, Nepal Fulvetta, Yellow-browed Tit, Brown-throated Treecreeper, Black-throated Sunbird, Maroon Oriole, Eurasian and Lancelated Jays, Red-billed Blue Magpie and Brown Bullfinch. And about 50 species of birds have been known to visit the area as migratory or passage migrants.

Phulchauki’s forest is also rich in flora and butterflies. And some of the main mammals inhabiting the forest include Common Leopard, Muntjac, Monkeys both Rhesus and Common langur with Yellow throated Marten and Orange-bellied Squirrel.

After enjoying the great day at Godawari and Phulchauki you will return drive and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu

For Price Contact Us

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Goa Bird Photography Tour

Heart-spotted Woodpecker

Our Birding Tour in Goa is a brilliant tour through birding hot spots around Goa, and is a treat for photography enthusiasts. Given below are 2 separate 3N/4D Travel Itinerary Options that birding lovers can choose with Odin Tours – India’ Leading Birding Tours operator.

Peregrine Falcon

Goa Birding Tour Itinerary – 1
Day 1: Pick up and transfer to camp site. Post Lunch birding in Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
Day 2: Morning birding in Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Afternoon birding in Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Night trail.
Day 3: Morning birding in Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Afternoon birding in Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
Day 4: Boat trip in river Zuari followed by drop.

Highlight Species: Malabar Trogon, Blue-eared Kingfisher, Malabar grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Malabar barbet, Asian Fairy Bluebird, Flame-throated Bulbul, Grey-headed Bulbul, Vernal Hanging Parrot, Malabar Parakeet, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, Malabar Woodshrike, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Mountain Imperial Pigeon, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon, Jungle Nightjar, Jerdon’s Nightjar, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Heart-spotted Woodpecker, Collared Kigfisher, Black-capped Kingfisher, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Great Crested Tern, Peregrine Falcon, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Western Reef Egret, Blue-faced Malkoha.

Package cost: For Price Contact Us

Heart-spotted Woodpecker

Goa Birding Tour Itinerary – 2
Day 1: Pick up and transfer to camp site. Post Lunch birding in Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary.
Day 2: Full day birding in Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary.
Day 3: Full day birding in Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary.
Day 4: Boat trip in river Zuari followed by drop.

Highlight Species: Malabar Trogon, Rufous Babbler, Lesser Yellownape, Square-tailed Bulbul, Malabar grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Malabar barbet, Asian Fairy Bluebird, Flame-throated Bulbul, Grey-headed Bulbul, Vernal Hanging Parrot, Malabar Parakeet, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, Malabar Woodshrike, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Mountain Imperial Pigeon, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Heart-spotted Woodpecker, Collared Kingfisher, Black-capped Kingfisher, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Peregrine Falcon, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Western Reef Egret, Blue-faced Malkoha, Osprey

Package cost: For Price Contact Us

Inclusions:

  • Stay on twin sharing and all veg meals (lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 4)
  • Pick up and drop
  • All internal travel
  • Services of a Naturalist for the duration of the tour.
  • Boat ride charges
  • Entry tickets to sanctuaries
  • 5% GST

Exclusions:

  • Mineral Water and other beverages
  • Any alcoholic beverages
  • Any additional food items not part of the menu.
  • Laundry
  • Any personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Anything else not part of Inclusions

Please note that the homestays operate on a “NO ALCOHOL” Policy. Also the homestays serve only vegetarian food, but non-vegetarian food can be served at an additional cost on prior request. Aangan has homestays placed at a distance from each other with a designated toilet and bathroom facility for each homestay (not attached to the room). Jungle trails homestay is a single house with common toilet and bathroom facility for all rooms.

For Price Contact Us

Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

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Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

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Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

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In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Spiritual Retreat India – Palpung Sherabling Monastery Dharamshala

12th Kenting Tai Situpa

Hay House Publishers India is delighted to announce its 6th ‘Retreat in a Monastery’ at the breathtaking Palpung Sherabling Monastery in the Western Himalayas near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh – the seat of one of the most celebrated spiritual leaders of our time, His Holiness the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa.

Dates: Please Contact Us
This exclusive Retreat offers you a unique opportunity to shift to a more spiritual way of being through Tibetan Buddhism. His Holiness will personally conduct all teaching sessions. The subject of this year’s retreat is: Buddhism for Busy People.
Palpung Sherabling Monastery Retreat 

Schedule for the retreat

Use your time at Palpung Sherabling to rejuvenate your senses and refresh your mind and body far away from the hectic pace of city life. Indulge in an enriching experience with Hay House Publishers India throughout this very special Retreat.

Day 1
Arrival at the Monastery
Introduction to the Retreat
Special Film Screening

Day 2
Early Morning: Guided yoga/Nature walk, Tara Prayers
Morning & Afternoon: Teachings by His Holiness the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa
Evening: Guided Meditation, Mahakala and Kali Prayers
Late Evening: Film Screening
Day 3
Departure from the Monastery

Your day at Palpung Sherabling

We want you to savour every moment of your Retreat. The programme has been especially designed so that you can absorb and reflect on the day and what you’ve learnt from it. Teachings and question & answer sessions with His Holiness the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa will be held every morning and evening, followed by meditation. Sit back, unwind, and enjoy the rich energy-filled ambience around you.

7:00 – 8:00 am: Guided Yoga/Nature Walk
8:30 – 9:30 am: Breakfast
10:30 am onwards: Teaching Session 1
12:30 – 1:30 pm: Lunch
2:30 pm onwards: Teaching Session 2
4:30 – 5:00 pm: Tea
5:30 – 7:00 pm: Meditation
7:00 – 8:00 pm: Dinner
8:15 pm: Film Screening

His Holiness, on request, will meet in private any delegate for a one-to-one session to answer any personal queries.

About the Palpung Sherabling Monastery

Palpung Sherabling Monastery

The Palpung Sherabling Monastic Seat is situated high up in the mighty Dhauladhar mountains amid lush pine and oak forests, and is spread over an area of thirty acres. Established in 1975 and built in the traditional Tibetan architectural style, it is the seat of His Holiness the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa in India and is considered one of the major learning and practice centres of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. It has helped to preserve the art, science and cultural tradition of Tibetan Buddhism over centuries. The Tibetan grand masters and monks of today as well as of the future are all groomed and taught at Palpung. Each year, hundreds of scholars and students of Tibetan Buddhism from all across the world visit the Monastery for learning and personal growth.

His Holiness the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa

12th Kenting Tai Situpa

His Holiness the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa, Pema Donyo Nyingche, is a renowned Buddhist master and the main holder of the mahamudra lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Mahamudra is a body of teaching that represents the culmination and fulfilment of all the practices of the schools of Tibetan Buddhism, and is believed by them to be the quintessential message of all their sacred texts. His Holiness the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa is a scholar, poet, calligrapher, artist, author, architect and a geomancer. The main guru of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Orgyen Trinlay Dorje, the Tai Situpa is also responsible for teaching future generations of Buddhist monks and masters.

For Price Contact Us

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Tribals of North Eastern India and Rhinos of Kaziranga

Nagaland Tribes

TRIBALS OF NORTH EASTERN INDIA AND RHINOS OF KAZIRANGA (16 days)

(Kolkata – Tezpur – Itanagar – Ziro – Majuli – Sibsagar – Mon – Jorhat – Kaziranga – Kolkata)

This exploratory ‘off the beaten track’ tour takes you into the Northeast of India – a relatively unexplored and unspoilt part of India. We witness a fascinating Myoko or Boori Boot festival of Apatani tribes in Arunachal Pradesh. Best known for its eponymous tea, we explore Assam and see the Ahom ruins at Sibsagar and take a boat ride on the mighty Brahmaputra River to visit the Vaishnavite monasteries at Majuli, one of the largest riverine Islands in the world.  The neighbouring Nagaland is home to many tribes, each with its own traditions, language and attire. There is an added attraction of Kaziranga – one of the finest national parks in India, famous for the one horned rhino.

Day 1: ARRIVE KOLKATA

You will arrive Kolkata and stay for 2 nights. Just a short walk away is the new market which you can explore in your free time.

Day 2: KOLKATA

A full day is spent exploring this charming metropolis, starting off with an early morning visit to the colourful flower market followed by a boat ride on the Hooghli River. The afternoon’s sightseeing includes the Victoria Memorial, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Indian Museum – one the largest museums in India.

Kolkata Victoria Memorial

Day 3: KOLKATA – GUWAHATI – TEZPUR

A short flight will bring us to Guwahati – the capital of Assam. We will drive to Tezpur for an overnight stay. Tezpur, also known as Sonitpur or City of Blood, is associated with the legend of princess Usha, the daughter of King Bana and prince Anirudha, the grandson of Lord Krishna for their eternal love and romance. The great mythological war believed to have been fought between Hari (Lord Krishna) and Hara (Lord Shiva) and as a result the whole city was said to have been drenched in blood. We explore the city in the evening.

Mahabhairav Temple Tezpur Assam

Day 4: TEZPUR – ITANAGAR

Today we drive to Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh – the land of rising sun. We stay here for the night. In the afternoon, we visit The Buddhist Gompa of Itanagar. This is a new but beautiful yellow – roofed shrine rising from well-maintained grounds behind which a Banyan tree planted by His Holiness The Dalai Lama. You get a beautiful view of the Itanagar city from the temple grounds.

The Buddhist Gompa of Itanagar

Day 5: ITANAGAR – ZIRO

Today morning, we drive to Jiro (usually spelled and pronounced as Ziro by the tourists). On the way to Ziro, we visit Local market run by Nyishi tribal women selling local produce of fruits and vegetables, handicrafts, jewellery and textiles. We also see Naharlagun – the Satellite city of Itanagar.

Nyishi tribal women

We arrive Ziro in the evening and check-in at your hotel for an overnight stay. Situated in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, Jiro is the plateau of Apatani Tribe. There are currently no known written records of the history of the Apatani tribe, although it is speculated that, throughout their history, the Apatani had a democratic system of running the society. The village council was known as the Bulyang. They are of Tibetan origin; their language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman family. Most Apatanis are loyal followers of the Donyi-Polo faith, who pray to an array of spirits and souls for blessing. When a misfortune occurs, they believe that it is caused by certain spirits, and thus they make appeasement sacrifices of chickens and mithuns. The dress of the Apatanis is elaborate and colourful, yet simple in style.

Apatani Tribals

Tattooing and the stuffing of large nose plugs were once popular among the women. Originally, this practice started because the women wanted to look unattractive to males from neighbouring tribes!

aurunachal

Day 6: ZIRO

Today we have a full day to explore the tribes. We can also plan the dates to coincide with Myoko festival – the biggest festival of Apatani tribe. This festival is celebrated to propitiate the Gods for good harvest and usually happens in late March. The first day and the last day of the festival is particularly interesting. We can also plan the tour around Boori Boot festival which happens in early February.

Myoko Festival

Day 7: ZIRO – MAJULI ISLAND

Today we will undertake a longish drive to Bogibill ghat where we will take a public ferry to cross Brahmaputra River to reach Majuli Island. We stay here for two nights.

Majuli Island

Day 8: MAJULI ISLAND

Majuli is the largest fresh water mid-river deltoid island in the world. It is situated in the upper reaches of Brahmaputra River in Assam. With a population of about 160 thousands, majority of them tribal, Majuli is endowed with rich heritage and has been the abode of the neo-Vaishnavite culture. The island is a bio-diversity hotspot and has rich ecology with rare species of flora and fauna.

majuli

 

 

For the past five centuries, Majuli has been the cultural capital of Assam. The main depositories of cultural and spiritual heritage are the Sattras, which are just like Gurukul (hermitages) of yore. Here up to 400 celibates’ stay for life preserving spiritual and cultural heritage, renouncing worldly desires. From the time of the great Vaishnavite renaissance of 14th and 15th century, under Srimanta Sankardeva, Srimanta Madhab Deva and other saints this island became the seat of Vaishnavite religion, art and culture. The famous Satriya Nritya (dance) and Ankiya Bhaona (traditional drama) have got a global acclaim. Majuli is also famous for Tribal Folk Culture and Heritage. It is said to be the cradle of Missing and Deori cultures. Explore in and around Majuli.

Majuli

We have the full day to visit various satras. The most notable are Samuguri Satra, famous for mask making; Uttar Kamalabari, the oldest Satra and Unauiti Satra, the biggest Satra. We also visit the Missing tribal village.

Day 9: MAJULI ISLAND – SIBSAGAR

Today morning, we will take a ferry out of Majuli Island to Nimatighat.  You will then drive to Sibsagar.

Shivsagar

Sibsagar was the capital of the Ahom rulers from 1228 to 1826. Sibsagar got its present name from Sibsagar tank, excavated by the Ahom queen Ambika. The tank was named after her husband, Shiva Singha. Sibsagar tank is also known as Borpukhuri, meaning a big lake. Shiva Dol, Vishnu Dol and Devi Dol are the three temples on the banks of Sibsagar. We stay in Sibsagar for the night and visit the Talatal Ghar and Rang Ghar – the Royal Observatory along with Sibsagar tank and temples around it.

Day 10: SIVSAGAR – MON

Today we will drive to Mon. The drive is through pristine tea gardens. We stay in Mon for two nights.

Mon

Day 11: MON

Longwa village

Today we will visit the tribal villages around Mon. We drive to Longwa village, close to Myanmar border. Longwa is one of the biggest villages in the region with some portion of the village lying in India and some in Myanmar. The village is controlled by a chief called as “Angh”. Half of the house of the chief falls in India and the other half in Myanmar. The villagers have dual citizenships of India and Myanmar! We will visit the village and learn about their culture. The tribe is skilled in making exquisite handicrafts. In the afternoon, we will visit another tribal village of Hongpoi Village. This tribe is called Konyaks and have peculiar tattoos.

Konyaks

 

Day 12: MON – JORHAT

Today we will drive to Jorhat. It was the last capital of the Ahom Kingdom and home to many historical monuments of Assamese culture. Jorhat is renowned for tea production and has one of the largest tea research centres in India. We spent the night in a tea planter’s bungalow.

Assam Tea Factory

Day 13: JORHAT – KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK

Today we drive to famous Kaziranga national park. A famous reserve on the banks of the Brahmaputra, Kaziranga National Park is home to the one-horned rhino. Also to be found in the swamps and tall grass are buffalo, swamp deer, hog deer, tiger and wild elephant. We will begin our jungle experience with an afternoon safari in the park.

Kaziranga

Day 14: KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK

Another day is spent exploring the park. We will enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in the park. There is an option to do elephant safari in the morning.

Kaziranga

Day 15: KAZIRANGA – GUWAHATI – KOLKATA

Today we will drive to Guwahati airport for the short flight back to Kolkata where we stay for the night.

Day 16: DEPART KOLKATA

You will be transferred to airport in time to board your flight back home!

Suggested Extension

The Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya

Extend this tour to neighbouring state of Meghalaya to see villages of Khasi tribe and the Living Root Bridges. Meghalaya, meaning the Abode of Clouds, owes its name to the prodigious humidity drawn over its hills from the Bay of Bengal. The state, sandwiched between Assam and Bangladesh, boasts one of the highest rainfalls anywhere on earth. The Khasi Hills on the South West receive the lion’s share of the downpours and the village of Cherrapunjee is notorious for receiving an average of 12m rainfall per year – twenty times more than London! A detour to this fascinating, predominantly tribal region is definitely worth. We also see the so-called Living Bridges which the locals use to cross the river and its tributaries below Cherrapunjee. By training roots of ficus elastic trees over the water, they’re able to create spans which are able withstand the rigours of the Meghalayan climate. A revealing fact is that the bridges take more than a generation to make; responsibility for their upkeep often passes to the eldest daughter in this matrilineal part of the world!

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Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

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Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

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In the footsteps of Buddha

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Experience Ladakh with luxurious Chamba Camps

Chamba Camp

A land of varying landscapes, from white deserts to blue lakes, snow-capped mountains to lush valleys, Ladakh, like a dream captured in a snow globe, is a wildly beautiful milieu set between the Kunlun Mountains and the Himalayas. Embark on a nomadic journey in canvas luxury. Unfurl the centuries-old culture of Ladakh, exploring her fascinating monuments, quaint monasteries enriched with ancient art forms, fairs and festivals. Experience Ladakh in its entire splendor at the Chamba Camp, Thiksey ; Deskit.

Chamba Camp

There is a Buddhist word which best describes such an utopia, “Shangri La”, an Earthly Paradise – an oasis of peace and tranquility; this word best describes the camp and its many bespoke services. The blessed and serene hamlet of Thiksey lies at an altitude of 3, 500 mtrs (11, 550ft) a.s.l. Located in the shadows of the famed and iconic Thiksey Monastery , this used to be a brown , barren and rocky moraine now converted into a Green Zone with 03 water bodies and also an organic garden.

Chamba Camp

Sitting in the twin shadows of Stok Kangri and the Ladakh range, Chamba Camp in Thiksey, enjoys the stark landscape of ever-changing colours. The chanting of prayers from the nearby Thiksey Monastery, echoes in the silence of the mountains. The camp welcomes you to this rejuvenating view every single day. The camp offers outdoor seating by three water bodies. Each seating area has its own aqua deck with a plethora of dining options and an indoor setting, equipped with fun games to keep you entertained.

chamba camp

Try your hand at archery and croquet, or watch a game of Polo, the ancient sport of the royals.If you’re in the mood for some adventure, hop onto a bicycle to explore the nearby villages. Walk amongst ancient stupas, and beautiful, gnarled trees, or just sit back, and enjoy the birdsong that our campsite is blessed with. We guarantee a soul-stirring experience!

chamba camp polo

Highlights

  • Leh Heritage Walk Walk the Talk through our well curated research of the Ancient city of Leh
  • Hemis Monastery Rediscover the secrets of the largest and richest monastery of Ladakh
  • Stok Palace Village exploration of this beautiful hamlet which houses a palace and also an ancient traditional Ladakhi home
  • Alchi Monastery Bring alive the essence of Buddhist teachings at this Cent 11th UNESCO Heritage site
  • Birders Paradise Study birds as migrate to nest on the wetland of the Indus Valley
  • Séance with the Spirits Meeting up with the village oracle is a life changing experience
  • White Water Rafting Ride the exciting rapids as you hurl down the Grand Canyon of Asia
  • Cycling in Wari La Breathtaking downhill mountain cycling from the world’s fourth highest motorable pass ( 5,312 mtrs 17,427 fts.)
  • Pangong Tso Visit “the enchanted lake” on the Indo-China border

Tour Plan

Day 1: Following your arrival at Leh, transfer to the Chamba camp in Thiksey. Soak in the serenity and picturesque surrounding as you relax and acclimatize.

chamba camp

This morning, following your arrival into Leh, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your residence, Chamba Camp, Thiksey. Soak in the serenity of the surroundings as you are accorded a traditional Ladakhi welcome. You will then be accompanied to your well-appointed Luxury Tent after your check-in formalities at the Reception Tent is completed.There will be no activity on your day of arrival as it is medically mandated that you relax and undergo minimal exertion enabling you to acclimatize to the rarefied oxygen levels at this high-altitude. The excursion specialist at Chamba camp, Thiksey will meet with you to discuss the itinerary suggested and help you plan your excursions and make changes if required, to suit your interests, choices and leisure.

You may take a stroll through the blessed hamlet of Thiksey and engage with the joyous local community and its pastoral lifestyle, immersing you to the scintillating peace and tranquility.

Meal: Lunch and Dinner

Overnight in Chamba camp, Thiksey

Day 2: The Little Tibet Experience.

chamba camp

Today brings a late start, leaving the morning free for you to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and walk around the camp site, taking in the sights and the peaceful milieu where each tent opens out on to alfalfa pastures. Enjoy the view of the willow trees as the wind gracefully brushes the branches and the rustling sound of the poplar trees create an aura of unmatched beauty and serenity, making you unwind and relax.

Or, you may take an easy, invigorating walk in the vicinity of the camp through the lush farmlands of Nyerma, with insight into ancient knowledge of medicinal herbs, agricultural practices and religious life in the nunnery.

Return to the camp for your lunch.

This afternoon following lunch, you will visit the famed Matho Monastery.

The village of Matho is located at the mouth of a deep gorge running out of the Zanskar Range and across the river Indus. Founded in 1410 by Lama Dunpa Dorje, it belongs to the Sakya Order. It is noted for its six-hundred-year-old thangkas and its conservation project of the monastery undertaken by local women and led by a spirited team from all parts of the globe.

We then proceed on a gentle orientation tour of Leh. Our Leh City Heritage walk ushers you to the labyrinth of the by-lanes of Leh City under the gaze of the imposing 17th century nine storied Leh City Palace.

Our walk takes you through this last big frontier town where everything from daily needed rations, locally spun woolen clothing, rugs, yak fur and yak tail and ritualistic items can be sourced. The city boulevard presents a cauldron of shops which sell Pashmina shawls, stoles to Tibetan handicraft items. A few scattered curio shops also offer Tibetan silver jewelry and traditional Ladakhi jewelry set with turquoise, jade and emerald.

Your walk concludes near Chubi village where your vehicle will pick you up and take you to Shanti Stupa, perched upon a great vantage point over Leh, with spectacular views of this mesmerizing stone strewn landscape.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Chamba camp, Thiksey

Day 3: Two Paths to Nirvana.

monastery-thiksey

An early morning start with tea and coffee followed by a visit to the Thiksey monastery, which stands about a kilometer from your camp. This beautiful monastery houses a two storey statue of the Maitreya Buddha seated on a lotus and boasts of a spectacular view of the Leh valley. At the monastery, you will have the privilege to participate in the Buddhist morning prayer ceremony at sunrise.

Continue on a guided tour of the monastery, visiting the beautiful prayer room which has many handwritten and painted books as well as the temple dedicated to goddess Tara with her 21 images placed in glass-covered wooden shelves. You will also see small shrines devoted to the guardian divinities including Cham-Sing, the protector deity of Thiksey.

Return to the camp for a hearty breakfast.

The rest of the morning is free, allowing you time to relax and take in the pristine beauty around you.

After a sumptuous lunch at camp, proceed to explore the jewel in the crown of the Drukpa lineage, the Hemis Monastery, the biggest monastic institution of Ladakh, situated about 23 kilometres (45 mins) from Thiksey. Built in a secluded valley, the monastery belongs to the Drukpa School or the Dragon Order of Tibetan Buddhism. Explore the many interesting facets of this institution, established under the patronage of King Senge Namygal in the 17th century, where young lamas are taught literature, history, philosophy, yoga and tantra. The monastery halls are adorned with beautiful statues and mural paintings.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight in Chamba camp, Thiksey

Day 4: Bid farewell to the Land of the Lamas.

chamba camp

Today you bid farewell to the enchanting and breath-taking mountainous and rugged terrain of Ladakh, as you proceed on your onward destination.

Meal: Breakfast

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Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

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Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

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Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Luxury Taj Mahal Tour with Oberoi Hotels

Luxury Taj Mahal Tour with Oberoi Hotels

 

This is an ideal tour for the first time visitors with limited time but handsome budget. A true introduction to India, this tour covers Delhi, Agra and Jaipur“ popularly known as the Golden Triangle. Delhi, the capital of India, has a long interesting history. Jaipur, perhaps the most colourful and interesting city, is a gateway to Rajasthan. Agra is home to Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the greatest monument of love! The accommodation is arranged at luxurious Oberoi hotels like Rajvilas and Amarvilas where you will experience the right blend of legendary service, luxury and efficiency.

Delhi x 2 nights – The Oberoi Hotel 

Agra x 1 night – The Oberoi Amarvilas

Jaipur x 2 nights The Oberoi Raj Vilas

Probably, no other theme tour besides Golden Triangle Tour can provide you with a full-fledged glimpse of India’s royal and cultural heritage in such a short span. The journey covers three most popular tourist destinations of India- Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

Delhi

Delhi

Delhi, The political capital of India, Delhi , makes up one of the cornerstones of the golden triangle in the country’s north. Finding its genesis in the great Indian epic the Mahabharata, as Indraprastha, Capital of the Pandava princes, today the city has transformed itself into a new incarnation. Reflecting the many colors and flavors of India’s eclectic composition, contemporary Delhi is one where you will be inspired, amazed, fascinated and impressed at every corner.

The India Gate, Red Fort, Jam Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Kutub Minar, Jantar-Mantar, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Akshardham Temple, Bahai Temple and many more are worth seeing in Delhi. The city is the perfect mix of the old and the new. From the colonial pillars of Connaught Place to the lanes of Chandni Chowk and the malls of South Extension, you will find discover a whole range of experiences here. Delhi is also a paradise for shopping, eating and sight-seeing.

Jaipur

Jaipur

Jaipur, popular known as the Pink City of India, is the largest city in the state of Rajasthan. It is also the capital of Rajasthan. Known for Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar and several other places to visit, Jaipur has numerous stories to tell. Each place has a history of its own and the stories, legends and myths make it even more special.

  • Under the rule of Sawai Ram Singh, Jaipur was painted pink, traditionally a color associated with hospitality, for the grand welcome of Edward, Prince of Wales. The pink color is retained even today, and residents have to preserve it.
  • Jaipur is one of the first planned cities in India. It was planned according to Indian Vastu Shastra by a Bengali architect name Vidyadhar Bhattacharya in 1727.The directions of each street and market are East to West and North to South.
  • The observatory, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, is one of the World Heritage Sites. It is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments, built by Sawai Jai Singh who was a Rajput king, who was interested in learning about the sky.
  • Hawa Mahal built by Maharaja Sawai Singh served the purpose of letting the royal ladies observe everyday life in the street below without being seen.
  • The Sawai Mansingh Stadium, built during the reign of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II has a seating capacity of almost 30,000 people and has hosted many national and international cricket matches.

Taj Mahal Agra

Taj Mahal Agra

Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan in loving memory for his queen Mumtaz Mahal (Arjumand Bano Begum) at Agra, the moghul capital of India. The construction of Taj Mahal started in the year 1631 and it was completed in 1653. In all it took 22 years, 20,000 workers and 32 crore rupees in creation of Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal was built in stages, with the plinth and the tomb taking up roughly 15 years.

Building of minarets, mosque, jawab, and gateway took additional 5 years to be completed. Different types of marbles used in construction of Taj Mahal were brought over from many different regions & countries: Rajasthan, Punjab, China, Tibet, Afghanistan, Srilanka, & Arabia. Many precious stones and Lapis Lazuli (a semi-precious stone) were ripped off from its walls by the Britishers during the Indian rebellion of 1857.

Taj Mahal attracts 2-4 million visitors annually with over 200,000 from overseas.

You can add any of the following destinations to your tour plan:

Udaipur, Jodhpur, Pushkar, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Varanasi, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dharamshala

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Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

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Druk Path Trek

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In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Luxury Rajasthan tour with Oberoi Hotels

sam sand dunes jaisalmer

Want to experience magical sights of India while enjoying the luxury of some of the best hotels in the world where royal experience awaits you at every hotel? This is an ideal tour for the first time visitors who wish to experience India while staying in luxury hotels and resorts. A true introduction to India, this tour covers Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Udaipur, a must for first time visitors to India. Delhi, the capital of India, has a long interesting history. Jaipur, perhaps the most colourful and interesting city, is a gateway to Rajasthan. Agra is home to Taj Mahal one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the greatest monument of love!

Detailed Tour Plan

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Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Royal Rendezvous with Taj Palaces Hotels

Taj Palace Hotel Udaipur

This is Rajasthan at its luxurious best. Traveling like Royals, you stay in some of the most luxurious hotel and palaces. Ranking amongst world’s finest; each hotel has a remarkable legacy which leaves you awestruck.

Tour program: Delhi – Jaipur – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Mumbai

Day 1: Arrive Delhi
You will arrive Delhi and will be transferred to Taj Mahal Hotel for 2 nights’ stay. It is a deluxe hotel, centrally located in the heart of Delhi.

Taj_Mahal_Hotel_New_Delhi
Taj_Mahal_Hotel_New_Delhi

Day 2: Delhi
In the afternoon visit the bazaars of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi as well as Jamia Masjid, the largest mosque in India, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara and Rajghat – the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. The afternoon sightseeing tour visits the beautiful buildings of New Delhi, built by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, and the historic Qutub Minar and Humayun’s tomb.

jama-masjid-mosque-delhi-1

Humayun-tomb-delhi-

Day 3: Jaipur
Today morning you will drive to Pink City of Jaipur and stay for 2 nights at the magnificent Rambagh Palace.

Taj_Rambagh_Palace_Jaipur
Taj_Rambagh_Palace_Jaipur

Day 4: Jaipur
Today morning you will visit Amber Fort. The fort can be ascended on elephant’s back. Afternoon you will visit monuments of Jaipur including the City Palace, Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), the Observatory and the museum.

Jaigarh Fort Jaipur

Day 5: Jodhpur
Driving further west into this desert state, you will arrive at the Blue City of Jodhpur. Your stay for next two nights is arranged at Umaid Bhawan Palace – rated as the best hotel in the world and the largest private residence in the world. This landmark hotel is one of the city’s must see places.

Taj_Umaid_Mahal_Palace_Jodhpur
Taj_Umaid_Mahal_Palace_Jodhpur

Day 6: Jodhpur
Today you will visit the magnificent Mehranagarh Fort – one the most majestic forts in Rajasthan. Also visit the Jaswant Thada.

mehrangarh fort jodhpur

Day 7: Udaipur
Today you drive to Udaipur visiting the intricately carved Ranakpur Jain temple en route. Your stay for next two nights is arranged at Lake Palace – an utterly romantic palace hotel in the world.

Taj_Lake_Palace_Udaipur
Taj_Lake_Palace_Udaipur

Day 8: Udaipur
In the morning visit the impressive City Palace, the biggest palace complex in Rajasthan, the beautiful gardens of Sahelion-ki-Bari, and the Jagdish Temple.

City_palace_udaipur
City_palace_udaipur

Day 9: Mumbai
A short flight brings you to Mumbai – the city that never sleeps. You will spend next two nights at iconic Taj Mahal Hotel. This legendary hotel with unmatched location by Arabian sea is a landmark in city.

Taj_Mahal_Hotel_Mumbai
Taj_Mahal_Hotel_Mumbai

Day 10: Mumbai
The day is spent exploring the maximum city – with an excursion to Elephanta Island, Dhobi Ghat and tour of city’s markets and museums.

Dhobi_Ghat-Mumbai
Dhobi_Ghat-Mumbai

Day 11: Mumbai
Today your Royal Rendezvous comes to end when you fly back home.

Note: You can add Agra – city of Taj Mahal between Delhi and Jaipur by adding one more day in tour.

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Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Hidden Gems of Rajasthan

Hidden Gems of Rajasthan

A startled black-buck, the bewitching smile a village belle, the lined face of a tribal chief, the ruggedness of Thar, miles of golden sands, loping on a camel back romance rides with you This tour invites both the first time visitors and those wanting to explore this beautiful state more. Covering almost all the important sites of Rajasthan the tour is rich in cultural and historical experiences. The accommodation is carefully chosen boutique hotels, heritage palaces, fort hotels at amazing locations.

Offbeat Rajasthan Tour –   This 13N/14D tour combines the rural hamlets in Eastern Rajasthan with the more popular cities of Jaipur and Udaipur and villages of Rohet and Khimsar. Over two weeks, see the impressive Chitra Sala or Picture Gallery atop Bundi’s Taragarh fort, take a Bishnoi village safari outside Jodhpur, go bird watching and experience village life around Karauli. Also visit romantic Udaipur – the City of Lakes and Jaipur as well as the iconic Taj Mahal and the monuments of Delhi.

Places:  Delhi – Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Ramathra – Bundi – Udauipur – Ranakpur Rohet Garh – Bishnoi – Jodhpur Khimsar – Jaipur – Delhi

Detailed Travel Plan

Day 1: Welcome to Delhi

Welcome to the political and Cultural Capital of India … Delhi. Traditional welcome at the airport by our representative and transfer to hotel.

Day 2: Delhi

Delhi

Explore Delhi on a full day sightseeing tour. Start with a tour of Old Delhi in the morning; enjoying a cycle rickshaw ride in the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk followed by a visit to the Jama Masjid and the Raj Ghat. In the afternoon, drive past the impressive buildings of Lutyen’s New Delhi and visit the Humayun’s tomb and the lofty Qutb Minar.

Day 3: Agra

Rise early morning to take the express train to Agra ; stay one night. Visit the impressive Agra Fort, followed by a visit to the ornate tomb of Itamud-ud-Daula. Enjoy a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunset to marvel at one of the world’s great monuments in a glow of pink and yellow hues.

Taj Mahal Agra

Day 4: Fateh Pur Sikri

An hour’s drive from Agra, visit Akbar’s deserted Mughal capital city at Fatehpur Sikri laden with beautiful buildings. In the afternoon, drive through marble and stone quarries of the Daang Plateau to Ramathra, stay two nights

Day 5: Ramathra

Relax in the midst of the wonderfully rustic surroundings, take a village walk, explore the expansive ruins of the fort or take a boat ride in the lake to see a wide variety of migratory and local birds.

Day 6: Bundi

Take a short drive southwards to Bundi one of Rajasthan’s hidden gems, for an overnight stay. Visit the sprawling Taragarh Fort which houses a spectacular multi-storeyed palace. Inside, the former royal apartments hold a collection of vibrant early-17th-century murals.

bundi rajasthan

Day 7: Udaipur

Drive to Udaipur visiting the Chittaurgarh Fort – the largest in India and a UNESCO World Heritage site en route; stay two nights.

Chittaurgarh Fort

Day 8: Udaipur

The sightseeing in Udaipur is set around the City Palace – a complex of 11 palaces, all with intricate stone work and interiors featuring glass mirror and ornamental tiles. Visit the gardens of Sahelion Ki Bari, the old city and the Jagdish Temple.

Day 9: Ranakpur Rohet garh

Heading westward today, traverse the Aravalli Hills to Ranakpur, the home of an intricately and painstakingly carved Jain Temple complex. Drive to the outskirts of Jodhpur; stay two nights.

ranakpur jain temple

Day 10 : Bishnoi

Experience a village safari this morning by jeep driving into the surrounding desert, where Bishnoi, Bhil, potters’ and weavers’ villages nestle amid the khejri trees and acacia scrub. The afternoon is at leisure.

Bishnoi

Day 11 : Jodhpur Khimsar

Drive to Jodhpur for a half day sightseeing tour focussed on the majestic Mehrangarh, one of India’s most fabulous forts. Also visit the Jaswant Thada, a marble cenotaph and take a walk through the Sardar Bazar to see its Clock Tower that dates back to 1912. Drive on to rural Khimsar for an overnight stay. In the late afternoon, wander into the village to witness the rural way of life, rent a bike, or ride on a camel cart.

mehrangarh fort jodhpur

Overnight at the camp in Sam.

Day 12 : Jaipur

Drive to Jaipur ; stay two nights.

Day 13 : Jaipur

Start your morning sightseeing with the 17th century hilltop Amber Fort and the sparkling Mirror Palace. In the afternoon visit the City Palace & Museum and the 18th century Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory. Drive through the busy bazaars for a photo stop at the recently restored Hawa Mahal, one of the most famous buildings in Jaipur.

City Palace Jaipur

Day 14: Jaipur – Delhi

Early morning flight to Delhi for your onward journey.

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Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Wild India in style with Taj Safari Lodges

Wild India in style with Taj Safari Lodges

This is Indian Wildlife in Style. This short and crisp tour combines the finest National Parks in the central India with the best jungle lodges in India. These are park offer variety of terrain, flora and fauna with Tiger as the main draw. Taj group has taken the wildlife accommodation to a whole new level with supreme luxury, attention to details, sublime location, and amazing wildlife experience in customized vehicles. Weave teamed up with the Taj Group India’s leading five-star hotel chain to offer a 11-day luxury tour through the country’s wild heart.

Luxury Wildlife Holiday In Central India

This Eleven day Tiger safari in India covers all four of Central India’s Tiger reserves i.e Pench, Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Panna. This wildlife tour of India is based on using the finest accommodation throughout, in Delhi, you stay at the Imperial hotel, Delhi’s most exclusive luxury hotel, and while on safari, at the Taj safari lodges in Pench, Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Panna.

Itinerary – Delhi – Pench – Kanha – Bandhavgarh – Panna – Delhi

Day 01: – Arrive Delhi

Arrive at Delhi International Airport.

Delhi : A bustling metropolis and a city of 14 million inhabitants, is also India’s capital. A near perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, Delhi, consisting 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.

Delhi

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 Imperial hotel for check-in. No activity is scheduled today, since most of the International flights arrive into India close to midnight only.
Imperial Hotel Janpath
The Imperial :- The Imperial Hotel, one of Delhi’s best known luxury Hotels is also one of the oldest hotels in Delhi .Built in 1933, it has a somewhat unconventional style & design; a mixture of Victorian and old colonial with a playful dosage of art deco. The hotel, which is centrally located on Janpath, is set in beautiful gardens and its facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a shopping arcade, permanent in-house art galleries and a variety of restaurants.

Day 02: Delhi

This morning you are collected from your hotel for full day tour of Old and New Delhi.

The tour of the 17th-century old city includes the great mosque of Jama Masjid, The main street of Old Delhi is the colorful shopping bazaar known as Chandni Chowk (“Moonlit Street”). Drive past Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi.

Humayun-tomb-delhi-

Humayun’s Tomb : – 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. Enjoy a brief respite from the otherwise bustling city at Birla Mandir, a modern and colourful Hindu temple.

jama-masjid-mosque-delhi-1

Evening at leisure to perhaps venture out and discover the city or its many restaurants on your own.

Day 03 : – Delhi – Nagpur – Pench

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 luxury safari in India.

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 it’s animal character dominated by 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 abundance of sambar and nilgai.

Pench National Park

Visitor 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 illusive Royal Bengal Tiger and the equally shy leopard. The bird life has been described by visitors as some of the best in India and among the 250 or so species are malabar pied hombills, 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 it’s way through the park, is a magnet for all birds, particularly during the winter migration when the area teems with visitor including Brahmini ducks and batheaded 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, it’s 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 Taj Safaris Baghvan Lodge.

Taj Safaris Baghvan Lodge
Taj Safaris Baghvan Lodge: A product of the recent partnership between CC Africa (now called &Beyond) and the Taj Group, the Bagh Van offers the ultimate in luxury, as far as lodge accomodation in Pench is concerned. The name Baghvan draws its inspiration from one of India’s iconic symbols, the Bengal tiger (bagh – tiger and van – forest). Pronounced baagh-vun, this charming lodge is located on the edge of Pench National Park . The Bagh Van has 12 stand alone suites, each charming individual suite has a contemporary bungalow feel with a cheeky 50’s ambiance. All suites have a spacious air conditioned bedroom with private shaded sit-outs.

Bedrooms all have a Jharokha (wooden latticed bay window) that filters the soft early morning light and covered inter-leading link takes guests to generously proportioned bathrooms with double vanity, separate w.c, indoor and outdoor showers. Leisure facilities at the Bagh van include a large Swimming pool, and large common guest areas, where talks and film shows on wildlife are held almost daily.

Afternoon Game ride into the Pench National Park. Safaris in Pench are organized in jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Overnight at the Lodge

Day 04: Pench

Pench-National-Park

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. Those of our guests, who have been lucky to sight a Tiger at close range (and most have) have said, that, the image will always remain in their memory, as a high point of their tiger safari in India.

Day 05: Pench – Kanha

This morning you drive to Kanha (160 kms/05 hrs.)

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.

Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park : – The park was created in 1955 by a special law and, since then, it has dedicated itself in preserving 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.

swamp deer

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 the Taj & Beyond Banjaar Tola.

Taj & Beyond Banjaar Tola

Taj & Beyond Banjaar Tola : Taj Safaris’ third jungle safari lodge is situated along the banks of the Banjaar River, directly overlooking the heart of Kanha National Park. The luxurious, yet lightweight, ensuite tents have been designed in a contemporary style with pressed bamboo wall panels, gorgeous bamboo floors, and locally crafted furniture hewn from the timber of exotic Indian trees. The intimate camp, is set in 90 acres of lush green property. The lodge has a café at the entrance, dining decks on the river side, and a swimming pool.

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.

Day 06: – Kanha

Kanha National Park

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.

Day 07: Kanha – Bandhavgarh

Early morning game safari into the Kanha National Park. Safaris in Kanha are organized in jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience. Later, drive to Bandhavgarh (250 kms/06 hrs).

Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh : Bandhavgarh National Park, situated in the Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, has established a reputation as one of the best places in India to observe Tigers. The 105 square kilometers of park area, open for tourists is reported to have over 25 tigers. Like many Tiger reserves in India, the area was formerly the hunting reserve of a Maharaja and contains much evidence of its royal associations, most spectacular being the ruins of a huge hilltop fort which dominates the centre of the reserve.

The Sal Forest which predominates in the Park is replaced by mixed forests at the higher elevations in the hills and there are also expanses of grassland and bamboo in the north. The core of the reserve is hilly and dominated by the ancient natural fort which towers to an impressive 800 metres above the forest. The Fort too is worth a visit. Bandhavgarh being an arid region, water is always attractive to wildlife and the presence of pools and streams in the reserve is one of the reasons it is so favoured by both game and predators. Although Tigers are the star attraction at Bandhavgarh the list of other mammals and birds that have made Bandhavgarh their home , is very impressive too .The list of birds includes such species as Grey-headed Fishing Eagle, Plumheaded Parakeet, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo and Asian Paradise Flycatcher among a total of over 250 species recorded in the district. Tigers and the more rarely seen Leopards, have no shortage of prey in the reserve.

Bandhavgarh National Park Spotted Deer

The Spotted Deer or Chital is a favourite item on the Tiger menu and several thousand of these delightful deer inhabit the park. Other species found here in varying abundance include; Chinkara, Chowsinga, Wild Boar, Sambar, Muntjac and Nilgai. The Asian Bison or Gaur last sighted as a small herd in 1998, the animal is now conspicuous by its absence since. A closely monitored programme of the reintroduction of the Gaur is planned within couple of years. A hunting pack of wild dogs may also be seen on occasions. Mammal sightings always require a degree of luck, particularly when the species is essentially nocturnal or reclusive but each outing in the reserve will at least provide a chance to meet one of the rarer inhabitants such as Sloth Bear, Indian fox, Jackal, Wolf, Ratel, Striped Hyenas, Jungle Cat or Indian Pangolin. More predictable are the sounders of Wild Boar rooting among the vegetation, Indian Hares, the lively little Palm Squirrels which seem to be constantly in a state of agitation, and several members of the mongoose tribe. Common Langurs and Rhesus Macaques are also plentiful, the former enjoying an elevated view of the forest as they devour their favourite leaves and often the first creature to bark out a warning at the appearance of a Tiger below.

Upon arrival in Bandhavgarh, check in to the Taj CC Africa Mahua Kothi.

Taj & Beyond Mahua Kothi

Taj & Beyond Mahua Kothi : A product of the recent partnership between CC Africa and the Taj Group, the Mahua Kothi offers the ultimate in luxury , as far as lodge accommodation in Bandhavgarh is concerned. The twelve charming suites or Kutiyas (jungle village huts) are newly built in the 40 acre grounds of the renowned tented camp formerly known as Churhat Kothi. The original Kothi (homestead) comprising the guest areas remains and has been extensively renovated, but the guest accommodation is all brand new. Those familiar with CC Africa’s standards when it comes to Game lodges , would no doubt know what to expect here — the best accomodation , top class services , gourmet cuisine and the best naturalists.

Day 08: In Bandhavgarh

Bandhavgarh National Park Safaris

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

Day 09: Bandhavgarh – Panna

Early morning game safari into the Bandhavgarh National Park. Safaris in Bandhavgarh are organized in jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience.

Later drive to Panna (200 kms / 03 hrs).

Panna Tiger reserve

Panna : Panna Tiger reserve is the 4th Project Tiger reserve situated in the Central Indian State of Madhya Pradesh. Panna Tiger Reserve encompasses 543 square kilometres of varied habitats and extends along the river Ken which flows north to join the Yamuna River, a tributary of the mighty Ganges. The region, which is famous for its diamonds, is also home to some of the best wildlife species in India and thanks to the recent conservation efforts has now become one of the premier Tiger Reserves in the country. The magnificent king of predators has become increasingly easy to observe at Panna as the population grows and other rare species such as Leopard and Wolf may also be seen by the fortunate visitor.

Herds of Spotted Deer, Nilgai, Chinkara and Sambar inhabit the reserve forming the principal prey species for the Tigers. The former hunting preserve of the Panna family, the park comprises large tracts of riverine forest providing perfect cover for both predators and prey. Panna Tiger A Gharial sanctuary along the river Ken near the spectacular Raneh Falls is an added attraction where we may be lucky to see a number of these endangered fish eating crocodiles basking on the muddy banks. For keen birders, over 200 species of birds have been identified in Panna Tiger Reserve and visitors are likely to encounter more than 100 species around the reserve to augment the mammal observations. A good variety of birds of prey includes the Black-shouldered Kite, Crested Serpent Eagle, White-eyed Buzzard, Shikra, and several species of Vulture along with of course the Malabar Pied Hornbill, Black-headed Oriole, and a selection of flycatchers, babblers and warblers.

Upon arrival check-in to the Taj CC Africa Pashan Garh.

Taj CC Africa Pashan Garh

Taj CC Africa Pashan Garh : Taj Safaris’ fourth jungle lodge, Pashan Garh, meaning ‘stone house’, draws inspiration from the dry-packed stone houses of north-central India. The 12 luxury stone cottages, located a mere 12 km from the park entrance, are spread out along a small stream, and are surrounded by 190 acres of private jungle wilderness. They are set atop a small hill, with magnificent views over the forest and a large nearby waterhole, which has been host to numerous tiger and resident antelope sightings.

The overall design of Pashan Garh is stony and rough hewn, with white marble, leather furniture, and ebony and chocolate highlights. Each room has been created using dry-packed stone and features dramatic carved wooden ‘jaalis’ (intricate Indian shutters) that filter the soft morning light. The guest areas celebrate Haveli design, with a spacious central courtyard. The interiors are contemporary mix of chocolate linens, block-printed black silks, celadon cottons and cotton lace chandeliers.

Day 10 : Panna – Khajuraho – Delhi

Early morning game safari into the Panna National Park. Safaris in Panna are organized in jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience.

Later drive to Khajuraho (35 kms/01 hrs) to board flight for Delhi

On arrival at Delhi airport you will be met and transferred to hotel The Imperial for check-in.

Day 11 : Depart Delhi

Your India wildlife tour ends with a transfer to the Delhi International airport in time to board flight home.

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Grand Tour of North India

varanasi

Covering most of the popular sights of North India, this tour offers a wholesome cultural experience. In addition to must-see ˜Golden Triangle, this tour takes you to holy city of Varanasi, the famous temples of Khajuraho, the magnificent forts and palace of Rajasthan before ending in Udaipur – the Venice of the East.

This is one of our most popular tours. The journey is an exciting combination of road and train travel along with few short flights. The accommodation is an interesting mix of old Palaces, Heritage Mansion, some boutique home-stays and modern hotels. You can extend this tour at a beach or a hill-station or travel down south to Kerala.

Grand Tour of North India : 11 Nights/12 Days
Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, Jaipur & Udaipur

Day-01: Arrive Delhi

Delhi

You will be met on your arrival at Delhi International Airport and transferred to the hotel of your choice. Delhi, India’s capital, and a city of over 15 million inhabitants, is where your North India tour package begins. Overnight in Delhi.

Stay In The Imperial

Imperial Hotel Janpath

Day-02: Delhi

Breakfast at hotel followed by a full day sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi visiting – The Red Fort, Friday Mosque — Jama Masjid, The silver street of Chandni Chowk, Raj Ghat, The Hindu temple — Birla Mandir, The India Gat, The Rashtrapati Bhawan — President’s House, The tomb of Emperor Humayun, Qutab Minar and The Bahai Temple.

Overnight in Delhi.

Stay In The Imperial

Day-03: Delhi-Varanasi

varanasi

After breakfast, transfer to airport intime to board flight for Varanasi. Met on your arrival in Varanasi and transferred to the hotel of your choice. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Varanasi visiting bathing ghats, The Kashiviswanath Temple, The Durgakund, The Sankatmochan — Shrine of Monkey God Hanuman. Overnight in Varanasi.

Stay in Nadesar Palace

Nadesar Palace Varanasi

Day-04: Varanasi – Khajuraho

Early morning proceed for dawn boat ride on River Ganges. After breakfast, transfer to airport intime to board flight for Khajuraho. Met on your arrival in Khajuraho and transferred to the hotel of your choice. Overnight in Khajuraho.

Stay in Lalit Temple View

Lalit Temple View Khajuraho

Day-05: Khajuraho – Jhansi – Agra

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a sightseeing tour of Khajuraho visiting eastern and western group of temples. Afternoon transfer to Jhansi railway station (180 kms/04 hrs), intime to board the Shatabdi Express (1756/2025 hrs) for Agra. Met on your arrival in Agra and transferred to the hotel of your choice. Overnight in Agra.

Stay in The Oberoi Amarvilas

oberoi-amarvilas

Day-06: Agra

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a sightseeing tour of Agra city visiting the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort. The visit to the Taj Mahal will long be remembered by you as the highlight of your North India tour. Overnight in Agra.

Stay in The Oberoi Amarvilas

Day-07: Agra – Jaipur

After breakfast depart for Jaipur by road (250 kms / 05 hrs) en-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri. On your arrival in Jaipur check-into the hotel of your choice. Overnight in Jaipur.

Stay in The Oberoi Rajvilas

oberoi-rajvilas-jaipur

Day-08: Jaipur

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a full day sightseeing tour of Jaipur visiting Hawa Mahal – The Palace of Winds, The Jantar Mantar, The City Palace and the Amber Fort. Your tour includes a ride up the Fort on an Elephant’s back. Overnight In Jaipur.

Stay in The Oberoi Rajvilas

Day-09 Jaipur – Udaipur

After breakfast, depart for Udaipur by road (400 kms / 6 ½ hrs). On your arrival in Udaipur check-into the hotel of your choice. Udaipur, Rajasthan’s third largest city, will be the last stop of your North India tour.
Overnight in Udaipur.

Taj Palace Hotel Udaipur

Stay in Lake Palace / The Oberoi Udaivilas

Taj Palace Hotel Udaipur

Day-10 In Udaipur

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a sightseeing tour of Udaipur visiting City Palace, Jagdish Temple and Saheliyon ki bari. Evening sunset boat cruise on Lake Pichola. Overnight in Udaipur.

Stay in Lake Palace / The Oberoi Udaivilas

Taj Palace Hotel Udaipur

Day-11: Udaipur-Delhi
After breakfast, transfer to airport intime to board flight for Delhi. Met on your arrival in Delhi and transferred to the hotel of your choice. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Delhi.

Stay In The Imperial

Day-12: Depart Delhi
Breakfast at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure in Delhi until transfer to the International Airport in time to board your flight home.

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Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

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Grand Tour of South India

https://odintours.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/15.jpg

Matching its North counterpart shoulder-to-shoulder, this tour brings forth the great diversity of South India. This tour is immensely popular with those who have been to North India and want to sample a different part of this amazing country. Starting with the lavish palaces and intricately carved temples of Karnataka, this roller coaster ride takes you past hill-stations of Ooty and Coonoor to tranquil backwaters of Kerala before mesmerizing you with the grand and exquisite temples of Tamilnadu.

Grand Tour of South India: 14N/15D

Destinations: Bangalore – Hassan – Mysore – Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai – Thekkady – Kumarakom – Houseboat – Alleppey – Cochin

Detailed Tour Plan

Day 01 : Bangalore
Arrive at Bangalore. Meet and assist at the airport. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Later visit Bangalore’s botanical gardens before touring the ancient Bull Temple and Tipu Sultan’s Palace. Then transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.
Bangalore's botanical gardens
Day 02 : Bangalore – Hassan
Drive to Chikmagular (139 kms / 4 hrs) and transfer to Hotel. In the afternoon we visit the temples at Halebid, one of the greatest examples of Hindu architecture in India, whose walls are covered with detailed friezes of the life and times of the Hoysala rulers. Our tour continues in Belur with the victory temple, Cheenakesvara, crowded with exquisitely filigreed pillars.

temples at Halebid

Day 03 : Hassan – Mysore
Drive to Srirangapatnam and visit the opulent Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan, occupied briefly by the future Duke of Wellington in 1799. Continue to the chairing city of Mysore ( 125 Kms/ 3 Hrs.). Our tour includes the Mysore Palace whose rooms are a kaleidoscope of colour.

Palace of Tipu Sultan

Day 04 : Mysore
A relaxing start to the day as we ascended Chamundi Hill – the Climb is said to improve one’s karma – for Panoramic views of the city and the giant statue of the Nandi bull. Day is free for leisure at the local market. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Chamundi Hill Bull

Day 05 : Mysore – Chennai
Morning is free for leisure. In the afternoon, board the modern Shatabdi Express for our train journey to Chennai, train # 2008, Shatbadi Exp, Dep at 14:20 hrs and arr at 21:35 hrs. Upon arrival transfer to the Hotel for overnight stay.

Day 06 : Chennai – Mahabalipuram
Chennai is a bustling city with a relaxed and friendly character. Our tour commerce in the area around the 17th century Fort St. George, taking in St. Mary’s Church where Clive of India was married, before a visit to the Government Museum to view the Chola bronzes.

St. Mary's Church Chennai

Finally we visit San Thome Catherdal, said to house the remains of the apostle. Thomas who is reputed to have brought Christianity to India in the 1st century AD. The afternoon, drive to Mahabalipuram, 55 kms and 1 1/2 hrs. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.

San Thome Catherdal chennai

Day 07 : Mahabalipuram – Tanjore
After breakfast, visit the place, where the legendary Pallava Kings Commissioned a range of temples. The most famous is the shore temple, romantically weathered by wind and sea. Later proceed driving to the great Chola Capital – Tanjore (290 kms / 6 Hrs).

shore temple

Day 08 : Tanjore
Our Exploration of Chola architecture continues with the Bridhdiswara Temple built in 1010. With a dome carved from a single piece of granite weighting over 80 tonnes, this magnificent temple is now a World Heritage Monument. In the afternoon we examine the temple of Airavatesvara at Darasuram whose decorative friezes portray mythological stories.
Bridhdiswara Temple tanjore
Day 09 : Tanjore – Trichy – Madurai
This morning drive to Trichy (56 kms / 1½ hrs) sightseeing concentrate on the spectacular temple architecture near Trichy at Srirangam. Set on an island in the Cauvery River within seven concentric walled Courtyards, the Sri Ranganathaswami Temple is one of the largest complexes in India. We take time to stroll though the local village before driving to Madurai (131 kms / 3 hrs.).
Sri Ranganathaswami Temple

 

Day 10 : Madurai – Thekkady (Periyar)
Madurai, an Ancient and traditional town is dominated by the colorful and lively Minakshi Temple whose thousand-pillared hall is crowded with exquisitely carved columns. We explore the ruined Thirumalai Nayaka Palace before departing to Thekkady (140 kms/3 hrs).

Thirumalai Nayaka Palace

Day 11 : Thekkady
Enjoy morning and evening game viewing in the wildlife sanctuary of Periyar where elephant, sambar, bison and spotted deer may be seen during our lake cruise.

wildlife sanctuary of Periyar

Thekkady is renowned for its spices, and the aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper and a multitude of other spices scent the air as we explore a spice garden.

Thekkady spice gardens

Day 12 : Thekkady – Kumarakom
The drive to Kumarakom (130 km / 4hrs) negotiates some of India’s most stunning scenery. From the sea of clouds over the Cardamom Hills we descend into the lush backwaters of Kerala to Kumarakom. Later visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Day 13 : Kumarakom – Houseboat
Morning free for leisure. Later board the houseboat, from Kumarakom to Alleppey, Staying in this moving palace is breathtakingly stimulating experience. While sailing down a maze of canals one sees different scenes from the villages, paddy fields, coconut palms, fisherman and local life. Lunch, dinner next day breakfast and tea snacks will be provided in the boat. The cool breeze from the Lake make you sleep early in the night after anchoring in a fancy place.Dinner and Overnight in the houseboat.

houseboat from Kumarakom to Alleppey

Day 14 : Alleppey – Cochin
After breakfast, disembark the houseboat, and drive to Cochin, 90 kms and 01 hrs. Cochin is a curious blend of medieval Portugal, Mercandle Holland and an English country village, set on the exotic Malabar coast. Morning tour of the opulent Mattancherry Palace, a gift from the Portuguese to the Raja of Cochin. The place has a collection of remarkable 16th century murals painted on wooden walls.

mattancherry palace kochi

In the old Jewish quarter we visit the ancient Synagogue. Later the warehouse and shops provide us with some of the best shopping in India. We conclude our visit with the Church of St. Francis and the tomb of Vasco Da Gama. In the evening there is an opportunity to experience the renowned Kathakali dance at a local hall.

Kathakali dance

Day 15 : Cochin Out
Morning free time at the local market for shopping. Late evening transfer to airport for onward destination. (Hotel Checkout 12:00 Hrs)

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Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

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Kerala Panorama

Kerala Panorama

Aptly known as God’s Own Country, Kerala needs to introduction. One of the hottest tourist destinations in the recent time, Kerala has risen sharply on global tourist map. We bring to you the highlights of this amazing land including the cosmopolitan city of Cochin, the sanctuary of Periyar, the tea country of Munnar, the serene backwaters of Kumarakom and of course, the famous beaches of Kovalam.

Kerala Panorama – 6 Nights/ 7 Days

Places:  Cochin > Periyar > Kumarakom > Alleppey > Cochin

This popular tour of South India is great for those who have limited time but great expectations. This tour starts at Cochin and includes sightseeing.

From Cochin we take you to Periyar which is famous for spice plantation, wildlife and Periyar Lake, where we will take a boat ride. From Periyar we will travel to Kumarakom, where we will enjoy a waters cruise at the exotic resort situated on the picturesque Vembanad Lake. At Alleppey we will check into House Boat and enjoy the afternoon cruising through the backwaters, canals & coir villages.

Travel Plan Details:

Day 01 Arrive Cochin

Cochin International Airport

Upon arrival in Cochin new name Kochi you will be met and transferred to hotel. Afternoon free to relax or to do your own activities.

Marine-Drive-Kochi

Overnight:  hotel in Cochin

Day 02 Cochin

At 0900 hrs you will be taken for morning city tour of Cochin visiting Jewish Synagogue, Chinese Fishing Net, Mattanchery Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church. Afternoon free to relax

Chinese Fishing Net cochin

Jewish Synagogue Cochin

mattancherry palace kochi

Overnight :  hotel in Cochin

Day 03  Cochin / Periyar (195 kms, 5 hours drive)

At 0845 hrs you will be driven from Cochin to Periyar (a few miles away from civilization, there is a place, the abode of many rare animals, birds and plants in the western ghats in Kerala, the land of green magic) and checkin at hotel. Rest of the day free to relax.

wildlife sanctuary of Periyar

Overnight :  hotel in Periyar

Day 04  Periyar 

At 0630 hrs, you will be taken for a Boat ride (public boat sharing with other passengers) to view wildlife on the bank of Periyar Lake.

Periyar Lake Boat Ride

At 1130 hrs you will taken for spice plantation tour.

Thekkady spice gardens

Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight :  hotel in Periyar

Day 05  Periyar / Kumarakom (135 kms, 3 hours drive)

At 0945 hrs you will be driven from Periyar to Kumarakom – a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake and checkin at hotel. Rest of the day free to relax.

Kumarakom

Overnight :  Hotel in Kumarakom

Day 06  Kumarakom / Alleppey (20 kms, 30 minutes drive)

At 1130 hrs you will be driven from Kumarakom to Alleppey Jetty Point (when someone steps aboard a Kettuvallam, they step back into history, for these “moving masterpiece” have been plying the inland waterways of southwest India for untold centuries) and checkin at house boat.

Kumarakom House Boat

Your houseboat will move slowly thru’ narrow canals & backwater where you will see paddy fields, temples, churches, coconut palm trees, island etc.

Kumarakom House Boat

Overnight :  houseboat in Alleppey

Day 07  Alleppey/ Cochin (90 kms, 2 hrs drive)

At 1000 hrs your houseboat will reach Jetty point and then driven from Alleppey to Cochin Airport.

For Price Contact Us

Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Bumthang Cultural Trek

Bumthang Cultural Trek

The Bumthang Cultural Trek explores the highlights of the Bumthang valley, the religious heartland of Bhutan, and home to some of its oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. This gentle three-day trek passes through several villages on its route through Bumthang’s countryside of meadows, blue pine forests and mountains of scrub bamboo. It is perfect for the average trekker who wants to enjoy breathtaking mountainous views, visit remote sacred sites and meet with locals. It is especially recommended for lovers of nature. This trek also features a cultural tour through the beautiful western valleys of Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.

Season: This trek is recommended from April to May and then again from September to November. Please note that this trek is not recommended for December-March due to the cold weather.

Bumthang Cultural Trek – 10N/11D

DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU
DAY 02: THIMPHU
DAY 03: THIMPHU – TRONGSA
DAY 04: TRONGSA – BUMTHANG
DAY 05: BUMTHANG – NGANG LHAKHANG (4hrs)
DAY 06: NANG L’HANG – UGYENCHOLING (8hrs)
DAY 07: UGYENCHOLING – BUMTHANG (4 hrs)
DAY 08: BUMTHANG – PUNAKHA
DAY 09: PUNAKHA – PARO
DAY 10: PARO
DAY 11: DEPART PARO

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPHU
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world, with a constantly changing panorama of some of the highest mountains on earth. Our Bhutan Travel Bureau representative will meet you at Paro airport exit doors following customs formalities.

paro airport bhutan

After lunch enjoy afternoon sightseeing around Paro, including a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum housing many religious relics, works of art and handicrafts offering a great orientation into Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious past.

Ta Dzong Museum

Next, visit the Rimpong Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa, considered as the master of meditation by the Bhutanese and believed to have attained enlightenment in a lifetime. Dzong’s are large monasteries and district administrative centres, which were once strategic forts.

Rimpong Dzong

Afterwards, drive to the capital, Thimphu (1.5 hours) following the Pachu River. Before dinner at the hotel there will be an orientation on Bhutanese etiquette by your guide. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

thimphu bhutan

 

DAY 02: THIMPHU
Once a rustic village sitting in a broad, fertile river valley, Thimphu is today the nation’s bustling capital. Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including a visit to the National Memorial Chorten. This temple was first initiated by the Third King as a protection from the negative elements of modernisation, and as a monument to world peace. The Royal Queen Mother completed it as a memorial stupa for the Third King who passed away in 1972. Continue on to 12th century Changangkha Temple and Drubthob monastery housing the Zilukha Nunnery.

National Memorial Chorten

Other sites to visit include: the School for Arts and Crafts where students are taught the 13 types of Bhutanese art, The National Library housing the collection of Bhutanese scriptures dating back to the 8th century, the Traditional Paper Factory displaying the Bhutanese paper making process, and a fascinating replica of a medieval farmhouse at the Folk Heritage Museum. If there is time, you may visit the nursing pen for the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan, and Tashichhodzong, ‘the fortress of the glorious religion’. Initially erected in 1641 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was rebuilt in the 1960s during the reign of Bhutan’s third king in the traditional style, without plans or nails. Tashichho dzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body.

School for Arts and Crafts bhuran

Tashichho dzong

You can walk through the Thimphu Market to see the variety of food of Bhutan, including basket upon basket of fiery chillies, cheese and a variety of greens. (This market is open only from Friday-Sunday). Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

Thimphu Market

DAY 03: THIMPHU – TRONGSA
Drive from Thimphu to Trongsa (7-8 hrs) over the Dochu-La pass (3,100m) and Pele La pass (3,420m) on the Black Mountain range. Enroute visit beautiful Chendebji Chorten.

Chendebji Chorten

The Chorten was erected in the 18th century. The imposing Trongsa Dzong can be viewed across a deep canyon to signal your approach to the town around a curving road. Trongsa is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty. Overnight at your hotel in Trongsa.

DAY 04: TRONGSA – BUMTHANG

Trongsa Dzong BUMTHANG

Visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest Dzong in Bhutan and the Ta Dzong museum housing a collection of historical artefacts of the Royal Family. Afterwards proceed towards Bumthang (2.5 hrs), the spiritual heart of the kingdom. Bumthang is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest Palaces, Buddhist temples and monasteries.

Jakar Dzong BUMTHANG

On arrival, visit Jakar Dzong (Dzong of the White Bird) and 16th century Tamshing Lhakhang containing ancient Buddhist wall paintings. After lunch visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places in the kingdom and 7th Century Jambay Lhakhang. Overnight at your hotel in Bumthang.

DAY 05: BUMTHANG – NGANG LHAKHANG
14km, 3 to 4 hours
The trek begins today. The route follows the Chamkhar Chu (river), taking us through meadows, forests of blue pine and scrub bamboo. We will pass by many villages and temples on this relaxing and easy day. Overnight at Farm House. Altitude 2900m.

NGANG LHAKHANG

DAY 06: NANG LHAKHANG – UGYENCHOLING
19km, 7 to 8 hours.
The trail ascends gradually through juniper forests towards Phephe La Pass (3360m). From there the path descends to Tang valley, finally arriving at Ugyencholing village (2850m). Overnight at Guesthouse. Altitude 2670m.

Ugyencholing village

The trail ascends gradually through juniper forests towards Phephe La Pass (3360m). From there the path descends to Tang valley, finally arriving at Ugyencholing village (2850m). Camp overnight by the side of the river near village. Altitude 2670m.

DAY 07: UGYENCHOLING – BUMTHANG
11km, 4 hours
In the morning, walk up to 16th century Tang Ugyencholing Palace, a beautiful private mansion which also houses a small museum containing an excellent overview of traditional rural life in Bhutan.

Tang Ugyencholing Palace

On the way back we will visit the Mebartso (The Lake of Fire). It is here that Terton Pemalingpa (founder of the Nyingmapa sect) is said to have found treasure hidden by Guru Rimpoche in the 15th Century. He retrieved the treasure carrying a lamp which continued to burn even after being plunged into the freezing water. Legend says the key to Shangri la will be found here someday. This lake is very sacred, and on auspicious days many Bhutanese people go there to make butter lamp offering. Overnight at your hotel in Bumthang.

Mebartso

DAY 08: BUMTHANG – PUNAKHA
After breakfast, depart for Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival enjoy a stroll through the Punakha township. Overnight at your hotel in Punakha.

DAY 09: PUNAKHA – PARO
Visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’. It is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers) and is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was here in 1907 that Bhutan’s first king was crowned.

Punakha

Afterwards drive back to Thimphu where you will have an opportunity to visit handicraft and souvenir stores. Afterwards proceed to Paro. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 10: PARO
After breakfast hike to Taktsang Monastery. The walk of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill takes you almost a kilometre above the Paro valley floor (for those who cannot hike we will arrange a horse for transfer up to cafeteria). The view of Taktsang Monastery built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor is a spectacular sight. The Monastery is also an important pilgrim site for the Buddhists. The great Guru Rimpoche is said to have flown here on the back of a tigress when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. Nearby there is a teahouse where you can stop for refreshments before returning to Paro for lunch.

Taktsang Monastery

In the afternoon drive to the ruins of the 17th Century Drukgyel Dzong, built to commemorate a victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. In fine weather the towering peak of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7314m) appears as a stunning backdrop.

Drukgyel Dzong

On the return drive to Paro, visit 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo.

Kyichu Lhakhang

Alternatively, day 10 could be spent on a day trip to the Haa Valley, one of the most picturesque districts in Bhutan. Reached via the beautiful Chelila Pass, Haa Valley is characterized by its surrounding rugged and mountainous terrain. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

Haa Valley Chelila Pass

DAY 11: DEPART PARO
Breakfast in the hotel, then drive to the airport for flight to your onward destination.

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Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Bhutan Journey

Bhutan Journey

Bhutan is perhaps the last bastion of Mahayana Buddhism in the Himalaya and retains its age-old traditions and unspoilt culture. Colourful festivals with mask dances liven up the spartan life in its numerous monasteries. Majestic fortresses, called Dzongs, dominate the landscape in several towns. In clear weather, Druk Air’s flight to Bhutan provides a wonderful view of Himalayan scenery culminating in an exciting descent past forested hills into the valley of Paro. This comprehensive tour covers all the well- known places including the beautiful valley of Gangtey, famous for the migrant black-necked crane, and an excellent base for walks.

Bhutan Journey – 9 Nights/ 10 Days

Day 01 – Arrival in Paro – Thimphu (1 Hr)
Day 02 – Thimphu – Punakha (2 ½ Hrs)
Day 03 – Punakha sightseeing
Day 04 – Punakha – Trongsa (5 Hrs)
Day 05 – Trongsa – Jakar (3 Hrs)
Day 06 – Jakar Sightseeing
Day 07 – Jakar – Phobjikha (5 ½ Hrs)
Day 08 – Phobjikha – Paro (8 hrs)
Day 09 – Paro Sightseeing
Day 10 – Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01 – Arrival Paro – Thimphu (1 Hr)

paro airport bhutan
Early morning flight to Bhutan (Please check the flight timing) Upon your arrival in Paro airport our guide will be there to welcome you and transfer to Thimphu. After lunch visit the Memorial Chorten (temple) built in memory of the late 3rd King.

National Memorial Chorten

Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the valley offering a nice view of the valley. Enclosure where national animal, Takins are kept and drive to visit the largest and newly built statue of Buddha offering magnificent view of entire Thimphu valley. After 5PM, visit the fortress of Thimphu, Tashichho Dzong, which houses the throne of the king.

Tashichho dzong
Overnight: Thimphu | Altitude: 2300m

Day 02 – Thimphu – Punakha (2 ½ Hrs)

School for Arts and Crafts bhuran

Morning visit the School of Arts and Crafts where students learn 13 different arts used predominantly in Bhutan, Folk Heritage Museum, and the National Library. Drive to the Zilukha nunnery to meet the nuns and interact with them.

Zilukha nunnery

Lunch in the town and drive to Punakha through Dochula pass (3200 mts). If the weather permits one can enjoy a spectacular view of the highest mountains of Bhutan at a sight that stretches almost 180 degrees. Walk around the 108 stupas and continue to sub tropical valley of Punakha.


Overnight: Punakha | Altitude: 1350m

Day 03 – Punakha
Morning drive to visit Punakha Dzong (fortress), which houses the most elaborated temple in the country.

Punakha

This is a fine example of Bhutanese rich Art and Architecture. Drive further up to visit the Souvenir Making Center for girls supported by Youth Development Fund. Interact with the students and back to the hotel for lunch. After lunch could relax in the balcony of the hotel to enjoy the view and the nature. Or could go for an hour hike to the temple of Khamsum Yuley Lakhang (moderate) or the temple of Chimi Lakhang (easy), the temple of fertility associated with religious art of phallus.

Kyichu Lhakhang
Overnight: Punakha

Day 04 – Punakha – Trongsa tours (5 hrs)

Wangdi Dzong

Morning start your drive for Trongsa through Wangdi province and view the ruins of Wangdi Dzong (Fortress), which has been destroyed by fire recently. Continue to Trongsa over Pelela Pass at 3300m which forms the part of Black mountain range that divides the country into east and west. Enroute could take a short break and go for hike to the remote village of Rujubji. The drive is long but the landscape is picturesque and worth. On arrival relax in the hotel.
Overnight: Trongsa | Altitude: 2200m

Day 05 – Trongsa – Jakar (3 hrs)

Trongsa Dzong BUMTHANG

Morning visit Trongsa town and visit the majestic Trongsa Dzong (Fortress), the home of the royals and the unique watchtower which houses a newly converted museum and is very very impressive. Drive pass by Yotong La pass at 3425m. En route stop over the weaving place, beside the road where “Yatha” (wool weaving) is done which the Valley of Bumthang is famous for. Continue your drive for Jakar.

Overnight: Jakar | Altitude: 2650m

Day 06 – Jakar Sightseeing

Jampay Lakhang

Visit Jampay Lakhang, the one of the first two Buddhist temples built in the country. Visit Kurjey lakhang Temple, the site where royals are cremated, one can either walk cross the suspension bridge and visit the village of Parar and Tamshing or drive there. End your day with a walk passing by the Swiss farm. Most of the activities can be done on foot. Evening stroll in Jakar town and try some local pancake and noodles.
Overnight: Jakar

Day 07 – Jakar – Phobjikha (5 ½ hrs)

Phobjikha valley

Retrace and enjoy the drive back to the valley of endangered Black Necked Crane. Black Necked Crane is one of the rare specials of the birds in the world, which migrates from Tibetan plateau to Bhutan in winters (Early Nov to end of Feb). Phobjikha valley is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers so once can enjoy the hike around the remote valley of Phobjikha. Farm house stay optional.

valley of Phobjikha
Overnight: Phobjikha | Altitude: 2900m

Day 08 – Phobjikha – Paro (8 hrs)

Gangtey Gompa

Morning visit Gangtey Gompa, the largest and the only monastery of the Nyingmapa sect in western Bhutan, continue your drive back to Paro. If time permits, in Paro visit the National Museum, the first of its kind which has a collection from natural history to religious paintings. Visit the 17th century Paro Dzong (Fortress) on foot and continue walking through the oldest wooden bridge still in use. Evening stroll around the old Paro town and peep into some local handicrafts stores.

Paro Dzong
Overnight: Paro | Altitude: 2200m

Day 09 – Paro Sightseeing
Morning drive to the base for the hike (2 hrs uphill) to Tiger’s Nest, the most revered temple in the country that literally hangs on a granite cliff over looking the Paro valley.

Taktsang Monastery

Lunch in the cafeteria. Most of the day will go on the hike. On your way back could get some opportunity to see the traditional game, Archery match going on.

Archery match paro

Back to the hotel and relax. Hot stone bath for available at additional cost. Farewell dinner in the town.
Overnight: Paro

Day 10 – Departure
Morning transfer (10 mins) to the airport for your departure flight. Your guide will bid you farewell at the airport.

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Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Call of the Wild: Taj Temple and Tigers

Call of the Wild: Taj Temple and Tigers

This is a crisp tour covers some of the finest National Parks in the North; Central India. These are park offer variety of terrain, flora and fauna with Tiger as the main draw. The parks are accessed from Delhi or Mumbai by a short flight or overnight trains. The accommodation varies from humble jungle lodges to really upmarket boutique resorts. The focus of this trip is to see the tigers in jungle; no-one can guarantee a glimpse of a big cat in the wild. You will be guided by our expert, English-speaking naturalists, you will have the best chances possible. Your tour route passes through Agra and Khajuraho, we have included visit to famous Taj Mahal, temples of Khajuraho.

Taj Temple & Tigers – 11N/12D

Destinations: New Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Agra – Jhansi – Khajuraho – Bandhavgarh – Kanha.

Detailed Tour Plan

Day 01 : Arrive at New Delhi
On arrival transfer you to the pre-booked hotel later evening free for leisure.

Delhi

Day 02 : New Delhi – Jaipur

Enjoy a half day city tour of Delhi. Visit: Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple etc later transfer to Jaipur. Evening enjoy dinner at Chokhi Dhani.

Chokhi Dhani Jaipur
Day 03 : Jaipur – Ranthambore
Set on an excursion to the city including ride on an elephant to Amber Fort. Later visit City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Albert Court, Kalki Temple & Birla Temple.

City Palace Jaipur

Climbing-amber-fort-elephant-jaipur-1

Later transfer to Ranthambore.

Day 04 : Ranthambore
Visit Lord Ganesha Temple. Morning and evening game safari under guidance of an expert naturalist.

Day 05 : Ranthambore – Agra
Early after breakfast drive to Agra en-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri. Afternoon depart for Agra. Evening at leisure.


Day 06 : Agra
Full-day city tour includes visit to Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Itamad Ud Daula’s tomb.


Day 07 : Agra – Jhansi – Khajuraho
Transfer to Jhansi by train and then to Khajuraho by surface. In the city visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho temples.

Day 08 : Khajuraho – Bandhavgarh
Early morning drive to Bandhavgarh. If granted permission by the Rewa’s royal family, visit the fort.

Day 09 : Bandhavgarh
Have a full day of jungle activities.

Bandhavgarh National Park Safaris

Day 10 : Bandhavgarh – Kanha
Drive to Kanha National Park and check in a forest lodge for night stay.

Day 11 : Kanha
Full day jungle safari, on elephants.

Kanha Elephant Safari
Day 12 : Kanha – Nagpur – Delhi – Departure
Drive to Nagpur railway station/airport for a flight or train to New Delhi and board connecting flight back home.

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Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Spiritual Odyssey

Spiritual Odyssey

Religion has always been a backbone of Indian culture. How can you escape Religion while exploring Indian culture? We bring together some of the holiest places for Indians “ the shimmering Golden Temple, the holy monks at Dharamasala the abode of Dalai Lama, the Christ Church in Shimla, the holy Ganges in Haridwar, the biggest mosque in India. This spiritual journey represents the very essence of India. The tour begins at Amritsar and moves to scenic Dhauladhar ranges of Dharamsala, continuing on to Shimla “ the queen of hill station. Then you arrive at The Holy Ganges before returning to Delhi. The accommodation is an exciting mix of home-stays, deluxe hotels and heritage mansions.

 Spiritual Odyssey Tour : 14N/15D

Tour Plan: Delhi – Amritsar – Dharamshala (McLeodgunj) – Paragpur –Chandigarh – Nalagarh – Toy Train to Shimla –Rishikesh – Haridwar – Delhi

Detailed Plan

Day 1: Arrival Delhi: Upon arrival at New Delhi International airport meet & greet by out representative and transfer to your pre-booked hotel. Hotel for rest of the night.

Delhi

Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing: After getting a leisure breakfast commence half day Old Delhi sightseeing visit Jama Masjid, Rickshaw Ride through the narrow street of Chadini Chowk, Kinari Bazaar, get down in front of Red Fort, visit Red Fort, Rajghat (Mahatam Gandhi Cremation Site) and Government Buildings (India Gate, Rajpath, Indian Parliament and North & Sought Block). Overnight at hotel.

jama-masjid-mosque-delhi-1

Day 3: Delhi – Train to Amritsar (ETD 05:55 H): Very early in the morning board train to Amritsar, ETA 13:00 H. upon arrival meet to our representative and transfer to hotel. Late afternoon drive to Atari (Wagah) Boarder, to witness the Flag Retreat ceremony. Drive back to hotel for overnight stay.

Wagah Border

Day 4: Amritsar: Amritsar founded in 1577 by the fourth Sikh guru, Ram Das, Amritsar was built on a site donated by the Mughal Emperor Akbar and is today the spiritual center for Sikhs. Located in the heart of the city is the Golden Temple. The city is known for its rich cuisine and culture, and for the tragic incident of Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919 under British Rule. Rest of the time visit Durgiana Temple & Katra cloths market. Drive back to hotel, res t of the time free. Evening visit again Golden Temple see the Holy Book Ceremony, and see the Golden temple in the light. Overnight at hotel.

Golden Temple

Day 5: Amritsar – Mc Leodgunj (Dharamsala) 207 Km: Morning drive to McLeodgunj (Dharamsala). Afternoon at leisure. Dharamsala is often called ‘Little Lhasa’, as it’s the Headquarters of the Tibetan Government in exile. You will be 2 night at McLeodgunj.

McLeodgunj

Day 6: McLeodgunj (Dharamsala): Early morning walk to the town of McLeodganj to see the devotees engrossed in their morning prayer. After breakfast visit the Buddhist sites including the Namgyal Monastery, where the Dalai Lama has his residence and administrative offices. Bhagsu Nag Hindu Temples, Church, Dal Lake and Afternoon the Norbulinka Tibetology (Institute). Rest of the day at leisure.

Namgyal Monastery

Day 7: McLeodgunj – Kangra Fort – Jwala Ji & Brajeswari Temple – Paragpur (90 Km): Morning drive to Pragpur en route visit Jwala Ji Temple, Kangra Fort (Naggar) and Bajreshwari Temple. Afternoon at leisure to walk in the Pargpur Heritage Village and explore the hotel.

Kangra Fort

bajreshwari temple kangra

Day 8: Paragpur: Day to explore the delightful Heritage Village of Pragpur where time has stood still. There are many beautiful houses, some over 300 years old, accessible through narrow cobbled streets. Local silversmiths sell charming handcrafted trinkets.

Heritage Village of Pragpur

Day 9: Paragpur – Chandigarh (145 Km): After breakfast proceed to Chandigarh, the first planed city of India. On arrival check in hotel, later visit Rock Garden, Rose Garden, Sukna Lake and Museum. Rest of the time visit Chandigarh Hub “Sector 17” local market. Overnight at hotel.

rock garden chandigarh

Day 10: Chandigarh – Kalka & Toy Train to Shimla (30 km Drive + 90 Km Train): Breakfast at hotel, later transfer to Kalka Railway station board the Toy Train to Shimla, that was built by the British Govt. when our country reign by British, the is the heritage site through the 108 gunnels and 60 bridges. On arrival at Shimla “the Summer Capital of British Government” check in hotel. Rest of the time free for individual activities.

Toy Train to Shimla

Day 11: Shimla: After a breakfast commence full day Shimla sightseeing. Shimla around 2,100 metres above sea level, the state capital of Himachal Pradesh was once the cool summer retreat for the British colonial government escaping from the heat of the plains. Today, crumbling remnants of the Raj such as the Vice Regale Lodge, Jakhu Temple, Church, Library, Fagu and The Mall Road Shimla. Overnight at hotel.

Christ Church in Shimla

Day 12: Shimla – Haridwar (285 Km/ 8 H): After an early breakfast drive to Haridwar via Yamuna Bridge and Paonta Saheb. Yamuna Bridge is the frontier of Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal (Uttarakhand). On arrival at Haridwar check in hotel, rest of the time witness the Gangna Ceremony at Har ki Pauri Ghat. Overnight at hotel.

har-ki-pauri-haridwar-aarti

Day 13: Haridwar – Rishikesh – Haridwar: After breakfast full day excursion of Rishikesh or you have an option of Rafting trip from Shivpuri to Rishikesh. Evening visit Parmarth Niketan to share the Ganga Aarti. Drive to Haridwar for overnight stay.

river rafting rishikesh

Day 14: Haridwar – Delhi (Train): Morning board train to Delhi ETD 06:00 H. On arrival at New Delhi railway station meet to our representative and transfer to hotel. Time leisure for individual activities. Overnight at hotel.

Humayun-tomb-delhi-

Day 15: Delhi: After breakfast full day New Delhi sightseeing, explore as Qutab Minar, Humayun Tomb, Lotus Temple and Connaught Place. Check out time is 12:00 H. After farewell dinner transfer to international airport board flight to your next destination or home back.

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Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Hidden Gems of Central India

Hidden Gems of Central India

Madhya Pradesh – the heart of India – is home to some of the most interesting monuments found in the entire India. This tour covers popular sites like Delhi, Khajuraho and Bhopal along with some hidden gems like Mandu, Maheshwar and caves of Ajanta-Ellora.

While Rajasthan and Kerala hogged the lime-light in Indian tourist circuit, Central India remained largely undiscovered until recently. Aggressive promotions from The State Tourism Board and improved infrastructure facilities have made Madhya Pradesh a tourist hot spot today. The wildlife parks of Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench and Satpura still remain the biggest attraction of Central India. However a lot remains to be explored. The beautifully carved temples, the ornate palaces with surprisingly advanced architecture are testimony to the glorious past. The soothing countryside with rustic, laid-back hamlets take you back into a different world altogether.

Hidden Gems of Central India – 7N/8D

Tour Plan: Delhi(1N) – Aurangabad(2N) – Maheshwar(1N) – Mandu(1N) – Sanchi(1N) – Bhopal – Delhi(1N)

Detailed Tour Plan

Day 01: Arrival Delhi

Delhi

On arrival at Delhi airport, our representative will meet you and assist you to hotel transfer. Here all travel documents will be handover to you and your queries will be answered. Rest of the day will be at leisure. You may opt to go for shopping or do local city tour.

Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

Day 02: Delhi – Aurangabad

Begin the day with breakfast. Proceed for Delhi city tour. Here we will visit must see tourist attractions, 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Red fort complex, Qutub Minar and Humayun Tomb. All three are located in different directions. You may hire tour guide or take audio guide service at each spot.

jama-masjid-mosque-delhi-1

Humayun-tomb-delhi-

Late in afternoon, take flight for Aurangabad airport which is nearest airport for visiting Ajanta & Ellora caves. Aurangabad city is located in south-west of Delhi in Maharashtra state.
Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 03: Aurangabad – Ajanta Caves (Monday Closed)

In this day we will visit Ajanta caves about 130kms from Aurangabad. Here you can find 300 rock cut caves, ranging from 2nd to 6th century BCE. These caves includes painting and sculptural work. These caves are made in two phases and are considered masterpieces in Buddhist religious art. Guide service is required to make your visit more meaningful. Here you can find manual guides and audio guide, choose as per convenience.

Ajanta Caves

Later in evening return back to Aurangabad. You may relax at hotel in evening or go for shopping in Aurangabad. Paithan silk sarees of Aurangabad are world famous and main attraction of shopping in Aurangabad.

 Paithan silk sarees of Aurangabad
Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 04: Aurangabad – Ellora Caves – Maheshwar

 This will be a busy day for us. In morning we will proceed for Ellora caves visit and later take long drive to Maheshwar. Ellora caves are just 30kms from Aurangabad city. Here we can visit 34 caves of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain religions.

Ellora cavesAfter visiting Ellora caves, drive to Maheshwar (430kms) and road condition is good. With this we will enter into Madhya Pradesh state. Have dinner at riverside hotel in Maheshwar. It is a small but historical pilgrimage destination on the bank of Narmada river.

riverside hotel in Maheshwar
Overnight at hotel in Maheshwar.

Day 05: Maheshwar – Mandu

In morning, visit local temples in Maheshwar and do some boatride. Later drive to Mandu (100kms). It is another famous monument site in Madhya Pradesh state.

local temples in Maheshwar

Mandu is also know as “City of Joy” and love story of King Baz Bahadur and Queen Roopmati is main highlight of Mandu history. It has scenic natural beauty with magnificent palaces, forts, mosques, temples, waterholes and garden. Popular places to visit are Baz Bahadur palace, Roopmati pavilion, Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Jami Masjid, Hoshang Shah Tomb etc.
Overnight at hotel in Mandu.

baz bahadur palace mandu

Day 06: Mandu – Sanchi

 After breakfast, drive to Sanchi(340kms) via Indore & Bhopal city. Sanchi is a Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is a excavated site having many Buddhist stupas, gates and marks of ancient buildings. Here we can see monuments ranging from 3rd century BCE. to 12th century CE. Their is one museum in complex that showcases the history of Sanchi history, excavated items collection, images etc. Here guides are available to assist you during Sanchi sightseeing. We have option to spend night in Sanchi itself or may drive to Bhopal city hotel.

sanchi stupa
Overnight at hotel in Sanchi/Bhopal.

Day 07: Sanchi – Bhopal – Delhi

After breakfast, drive to Bhimbetka rock shelter which is 35kms from Bhopal city. It is a UNESCO world heritage site. Here we can rock-paintings and rock shelters.

Bhimbetka rock shelter

After lunch in Bhopal city, catch evening Shatabdi train to Delhi. On reaching Delhi, transfer to hotel.

Shatabdi train from Bhopal to Delhi
Overnight at hotel in Delhi.

Day 08: Delhi – Departure

This will be our last day of tour. Day will be at leisure. You may go our to visit temples, New Delhi buildings or do some shopping.

Later in evening, transfer to airport for departure.

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Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

Heavenly Kashmir

Heavenly Kashmir

Gar Firdaus roye zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin asto.

means.

If there is a paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this!

Tranquil lakes, beautiful gardens, luxuriant flowers and fruits, rolling hills, walking in the valleys or drifting in a shikara as close as one gets to Paradise on Earth as Kashmir is often referred to. Experience the unique life-style, staying on board the famous houseboats of Srinagar in the middle of peaceful waters of Dal and Nagin Lakes. The valley of Gulmarg offers golf, horse-riding, and skiing. The Pahalgam has the prized rainbow trout, and scenic walks. This exhilarating journey through Kashmir’s own ˜Golden Triangle is truly a mesmerizing experience.

Heavenly Kashmir Tour – 6N/7D

Jammu, Srinagar, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Srinagar

Tour Details

Day 01 – Arrive Jammu – Srinagar (250 kms)
Arrive Jammu Train station and drive to Srinagar. On arrival check in to the hotel. Overnight stay at houseboat.

Dal Lake Srinagar

Day 02 – Srinagar & The City of Mughal

Mughal Gardens Srinagar

Nishat Bagh Srinagar

Chasme Shahi Garden Srinagar

Shankaracharya Temple Srinagar

This morning after breakfast proceed for city tour of Srinagar. The world famous Mughal Gardens visiting the Nishat Bagh (The garden of pleasure) & Shalimar Bagh (Abode of love), & The Chasme Shahi Garden, & Shankaracharya Temple. In the evening return to Houseboat. Overnight at House boat.

Day 03 – Srinagar to Sonmarg – Srinagar
This morning after breakfast drives to Sonmarg. Explore the natural beauty of Sonmarg later come back to Srinagar for overnight stay.

sonmarg kashmir

sonmarg kashmir

Day 04 – Srinagar to Pahalgam
This morning after breakfast drives to Pahalgam 2440 Meters (Vale of Kashmir) on arrival check into your hotel. On the way visit Saffron field and Avantipur ruins, which is eleven hundred years old temple? Finally by the lunchtime you will reach Pahalgam, which is the most famous palace for Indian Film Industry. After lunch enjoy the nature charm of the valley.

Pahalgam kashmir

Avantipur ruins pahalgam

Day 05 – Pahalgam to Gulmarg
This morning after breakfast drive to Gulmarg which is one of the most beautiful summer resort in the valley. On arrival check into your hotel. This afternoon visit One can have Gondola ride (cable car) from Gulmarg to Khalinmarg. Overnight at Hotel in Gulmarg.

Gondola ride (cable car) from Gulmarg to Khalinmarg

Day 06 – Gulmarg (Sight Seeing)- Srinagar (52 kms)
After breakfast visit for the highest golf course in the world and skiing during the winter season. Visit Harmukh & Sun Set Peak. Later drive to Srinagar. On arrival check in to the hotel/House boat. Overnight stay.

golf course Gulmarg

Harmukh kashmir

Day 07 – Srinagar – Jammu (250 kms)
After breakfast drive to Jammu. On arrival you will be transferred to Airport/Train station for onward destination.

dal lake kashmir sunset

For Price Contact Us

Options
Chartering with Odin Tours is an entirely new experience, where all the details are crafted to fit your specific taste !!

The diversity in India is unique & it presents endless varieties of physical features and cultural patterns. In short, India Read more

Hola Mohalla Festival Punjab

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over three days mainly at the Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara, in the Read more

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day scenic trek with great views, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, Read more

In the footsteps of Buddha
In the footsteps of Buddha

There are four places, the sight of which will arouse strong emotions in those with faith. Here the Tathagat was Read more

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