Luxury Taj Mahal Tour

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

For Price Contact Us

Luxury Golden Triangle Tour

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.

Similar Tours

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.

For Price Contact Us

Essence of North India Tour

Blue City Jodhpur

This  12 Days Tour of Golden Triangle + Rajasthan offers a rich blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, taking you through India’s most iconic cities with added Rajasthani charm. Begin in Delhi, exploring its Mughal and colonial heritage before heading to Agra to witness the breathtaking Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Travel to the pink-hued city of Jaipur, marveling at the Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal, with time for cultural experiences. Journey west to Jodhpur, the blue city, where the grand Mehrangarh Fort and Bishnoi village safari await. En route to Udaipur, stop at the intricate Ranakpur Jain Temples and enjoy a royal retreat in Sardargarh Fort. Finally, soak in Udaipur’s romantic charm with a boat ride on Lake Pichola and visits to its palaces and temples before concluding your unforgettable journey.

Best time to visit – October till March

Day 01: Arrive Delhi

Greeted on arrival in Delhi and transferred to your hotel for two nights. The remainder of the day is at leisure,

 Day 02: Delhi

Enjoy a full days sightseeing tour of the historical city of Delhi, beginning in the wide avenues of New Delhi, to see Lutyen’s buildings and the India gate memorial, along with the impressive tomb of Humayan and Qutab Minar.

Afternoon you will visit the bustling and vibrant streets of Old Delhi to see the Jama Masjid and Rajghat, the resting place (Samadhi) of Mahatma Gandhi.

jama-masjid-mosque-delhi-1

Suggested optional activities in Delhi:

  1. A cultural evening at Parsi Anjuman Hall. There is different cultural program on different week with option of having dinner.
  2. Sound & light show at Old Fort depicting the history of Delhi
  3. Skip usual evening Old Delhi tour and take this special walk organized by ‘Salaam Balak Trust’ – an NOG working with street children. The walk will take you through narrow alleys in the heart of old city that you would not – could not – find yourself.

 Day 03: Delhi – Agra

Drive to Agra in the morning (3-4 hrs). In the afternoon, visit the impressive Agra Fort whose buildings, made of red sandstone and marble, are a mix of Hindu and Islamic architecture followed by a visit to the ornate tomb of Itamud-ud-Daula.

Red Fort Agra

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

Suggested optional activities in Agra:

  1. Mohhabat-E-Taj show: Spend your evening enjoying the amazing Mohabbat-E-Taj show that depicts the romantic love story of Emperor Shajahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
  2. Enjoy street food of Agra
  3. Skip visiting Taj Mahal in the evening (we will see Taj Mahal next morning. Point to remember: Taj Mahal remains closed on every Friday). The walk starts from Agra Fort Army Gate and passes through Ambedkar Park, Jama Masjid, Vaidya Ramdutt Gali, Mankameshwar Temple, Lohar Gali, Musician’s Balcony, and ends at Mehtab Bagh (The symmetry of architecture makes the Taj Mahal look equally breathtaking from all four sides and its hue in the river waters of the Yamuna during sunset futher amplify its aura).

Day 04: Agra – Jaipur

A full day’s drive to Jaipur (6-7 hours) with an en route stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar that was abandoned after just 14 years.

Closer to Jaipur, stop to see the impressive 9th Century Chand Baori step well at Abhaneri. Stay at Jaipur for 3 nights.

Day 05: Jaipur

Visit the 17th century hilltop fort of Amber and the sparkling Mirror Palace. In the afternoon visit the City Palace complex including, its museum and the 18th century Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory.

City Palace Jaipur

Drive through the busy bazaars for a photo stop at the recently restored Hawa Mahal, one of the most famous buildings in Jaipur.

hawa-mahal-jaipur

Day 06: Jaipur

Day at leisure.

Suggested optional activities in Jaipur:

  1. Morning: Hot Air Ballooning over Jaipur surrounding Amer Fort Area. Absorb the privileged view of colors and sounds, blending beautifully with historical forts & palace.
  2. During the day: Excursion to artisan village of Sanganer. Located at a distance of 40 km from Jaipur, Sanganer is famed for textile block printing, traditional Bagru textile prints, papermaking and Jaipur blue pottery.
  3. In the evening: ‘Rhythm with the elephant’. The guests would get to interact with our resident elephants feeding them, washing & scrubbing them and decorating their trunks with organic colors – all in privacy and exclusivity at a wilderness venue. At the venue fresh farm homemade food would be served to the guests for dinner.
  4. In the evening: Traditional dinner with an Indian family in Jaipur. Join a local family in Jaipur for a traditional vegetarian dinner. This is a perfect way to explore the secrets of the food and recipes of Rajasthan. You can also learn how the food is cooked and enjoy chatting with the family to learn more about Indian food, culture and traditions.

Day 07: Jaipur – Jodhpur

Drive to Jodhpur today. You may wish to make a stopover at Ajmer Sarif or Pushkar. Stay in Jodhur for two nights

Day 08: Jodhpur

In the morning, enjoy a Bisnoi village jeep safari. You may get a chance to visit ‘Opium Ceremony’.

mehrangarh fort jodhpur

In the afternoon, you will visit the impressive Mehranagarh Fort. Located atop a 125 m high hill, the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort is the most majestic and one of the largest forts in India. The ramparts of Mehrangarh Fort provide not only excellently preserved cannons but also a breath-taking view of the city. You will also visit Jaswant Thada – the cenotaph built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Suggested optional activities in Jaipur:

  1. Morning: Visiting a rug factory.
  2. Evening: Virast Walk or Heritage Walk of Jodhpur. Even if Jodhpur is one of the largest city of Rajasthan, it still retains old world charm – from massive Mehrangarh Fort to the old quarter of Jodhpur with its narrow jumble of lanes, its havelis and its fine medieval water tanks. Starting from Mehrangarh Fort, the walk covers Fateh Pol, Rani Sagar (Qeens Pond), Padum Sagar, Chand Baori, Jetha Bera, Mohnoton ki Pol, Moolnayak Temple, Nav Chaukiyan (intersection of 9 street and one of the busiest in Jodhpur), Inder Raj Singhvi ki Haveli, Singh Pol etc

Day 09: Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Sardargarh

Drive to Sardargarh in the morning. En route visit the intricately carved Jain temples at Ranakpur.

ranakpur jain temple

Stay at Sardargarh, which is one of the magnificent battle forts of Rajasthan with a 300 year history. It is now an all-suite hotel offering a reflection of the history and culture of a bygone era.

Suggested optional activities in Sardargarh:

  1. Afternoon / Evening: A jeep safari through remote tribal village.
  2. Night: wild life safari by Gypsies. Chances of spotting wild animals like Leopard, Wolf, Hyenas, Wild Deer etc.

Day 10: Sardargarh – Udaipur

Enjoy a short ride on meter gauge train through Aravalis. An adventurous ride with locals, the train passes through villages and an old tunnel from the time of the British Raj. Later drive to Udaipur where you will stay for 2 nights.

Day 11: Udaipur

City_palace_udaipur

Visit sights of Udaipur – including City Palace, Jagannath temple and Sahelion-ki-bari (Garden of Maids). Evening enjoy a boat ride in Lake Pichola

Taj Palace Hotel Udaipur

 Day 12: Depart Udaipur

Options:

  • After a leisurely breakfast, fly to Delhi for overnight stay and fly to onward destination next day.
  • After a leisurely breakfast, fly to to Delhi and connect with homeward flight
  • From Udaipur, you can fly to Cochin via Mumbai and travel through southern India.
  • Extend your trip to India for few more days and visit few more very interesting places.

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Photography Special Tour by Odin

Experience the vibrant tapestry of Odisha’s tribal culture and picturesque landscapes on the Photography Special Tour by Odin. Choose from a 7N/8D or 12N/13D journey, where each day unveils new marvels: from encounters with the Mahima cult and Desia Kondh Tribes to the mesmerizing markets of Chatikona and Onukudeli, and the rhythmic dances of the Bison-horn Maria tribe. Capture the essence of Odisha’s rich heritage as you trek through Kutia Kondh villages, witness the art of Silk Ikkat weaving, and delve into the heart of tribal life. End your journey enriched and inspired, with memories to last a lifetime.

Duration: 7N/8D or 12N/13D

Detailed Tour Plan

Day–01:- Sunday  (Bhubaneswar –Dhenkanal 80 kms 02 hrs drive):- Arrive in Bhubaneswar airport assistance and drive to Dhenkanal, Post lunch visit to monks of Mahima cult and their rituals in Joranda.  Dinner & Overnight at Dhenkanal Palace.

Day-2:- Monday (Dhenkanal –  Baliguda -200 kms) Drive to Baliguda en route visiting Silk Ikkat weaving village at Nuapatna, enjoy the beauty of  landscape of Eastern Ghats and visit some villages of Desia Kondh Tribes. Overnight at Hotel in Baliguda.

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Day-03:- Tuesday (Baliguda – Rayagada – 200 kms)  After breakfast drive to Barkhamba area to have a short trekking to visit Tattoo faced Kutia Kondh Tribe. Have lunch in their village and later drive to Rayagada. Overnight in Rayagada. (Must be on Tuesday)

Day-04:- (Rayagada- Chatikona – Jeypore – 220 km)  Morning drive to Chatikona  Market  to see Dongria Kondh tribe, different from others with their distinct hair dresses & jeweleries. After lunch drive to Jeypore, visiting Mali and Paraja tribal villages. Overnight in Jeypore. (Must be on Wednesday)

Day-05: (Jeypore- Onkudeli- 170 km both way)  After breakfast drive to Onukudeli  Market  to see  one of the most primitive tribe of the world, The Bondas & Gadabas. Afternoon visit some Gadaba villages. Overnight at Hotel. (Must be on Thursday)

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Day- 06:- Friday (Jeypore – Kotpad – Jagdalpur- 80 km) After breakfast  transfer from hotel to  Jagdalpur through Kotpad weaving village and Dhurwa tribal village and their weekly market at Nagarnar. O/N Bastar Jungal resort. (Must be on Friday)

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Day-07:- Saturday (In Jagdalpur – 120 km) Morning visit to Bison-horn Maria tribe, famous for their dance & hospitality. Afternoon visit Chitarkoot waterfall; it is called Niagra of Chhattisgarh. Overnight.

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Day-08:- Sunday  (Jagdalpur – Raipur 300kms 5 hrs drive) After breakfast drive to Raipur airport to catch your evening flight for onward journey.

OR

Tour can be extended for more photography on different faces.

Day-08:- ( Jagdalpur – Kanker) After breakfast drive to Kanker en route visiting Ghotul Muria tribal villages. Overnight in Kanker Palace.

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Day–09:- (Kanker – Bhoromdeo- 250 km) After breakfast drive to Bhoromdeo on the  way visiting Gond villages, O/N  Bhoromdeo Jungle retreat / Kawardha Palace.

Day- 10:- (Bhoramdeo – 80 km)  Early morning visit to  Baiga tribal villages, enjoy their dance and later visit to more tribal villages. Overnight at Jungle retreat / Kawardha Palace

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Day-11:- (Bhoromdeo – Shivrinarayan 200 kms) After breakfast  drive to Bilashpur/ Shivrinarayan en route visiting Malahar, Gond & Raita people. Overnight in Shivrinarayan.

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Day–12:-  (150 kms) Full day visit to villages of Ramanami people , Overnight in Shivrinarayan.

Odisha and Chhatishgarh Photography Tour

Day 13:- Shivrinarayan – Raipur 180 km) After breakfast drive to Raipur airport for onward journey.

End of our

Luxury Char Dham Tour by Helicopter

Char Dham Yatra

Embark on a spiritual journey with the Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter, starting and concluding in Dehradun. This exclusive pilgrimage covers the four sacred Dhams—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Enjoy luxurious services, VIP Darshans, comfortable stays, delectable meals, and dedicated handlers at every destination for a seamless experience.


Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dehradun

Your journey begins upon arrival at Dehradun Railway Station or Jolly Grant Airport, where our representative will greet you and transfer you to the designated hotel for a comfortable overnight stay. Spend the evening at your leisure exploring nearby areas before enjoying a delightful dinner and restful sleep.

Yamunotri

Day 2: Dehradun – Yamunotri

Your helicopter pilgrimage begins today. After check-out, proceed to Sahastradhara Helipad for a flight to Kharsali. Upon arrival, embark on a 7 km trek to Yamunotri Temple. For those unable or unwilling to trek, ponies and palanquins are available. With a VIP Darshan Pass, enjoy priority access to the temple. After seeking Goddess Yamuna’s blessings, return to Kharsali and check in at the hotel. Enjoy a traditional Garhwali dinner before retiring for the night.

Gangotri

Day 3: Yamunotri – Gangotri

After breakfast, head to the helipad for your flight to Harsil, near Gangotri. Upon landing, a private air-conditioned vehicle will transfer you to Gangotri Temple. With your VIP Darshan Pass, bypass long queues for an expedited visit. After darshan, proceed to the pre-booked hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Kedarnath

Day 4: Gangotri – Kedarnath

Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before departing for the helipad at Phata, Guptkashi, Sersi, or Sitapur for a 45-minute helicopter ride to Kedarnath. Upon arrival, head to the temple for darshan. The VIP Darshan Pass ensures a smooth experience. After prayers, return to the helipad and transfer to your hotel. Spend the evening exploring the local surroundings before dinner and rest.

Badrinath

Day 5: Kedarnath – Badrinath

Enjoy breakfast before heading to the helipad for a 30-45 minute helicopter ride to Badrinath. Upon landing, walk 1 km to the temple (cab service available at an additional cost). After receiving blessings at Badrinath Temple, relish a sumptuous lunch. The afternoon is free for sightseeing at Mana Village, Vasudhara Waterfall, and Bheem Pul.

Day 6: Badrinath – Dehradun

On the final day, attend the Abhishek Puja at Badrinath Temple (optional). After breakfast and check-out, our driver will escort you to Sahastradhara Helipad for your return flight to Dehradun. Wishing you a safe and blessed journey!


Guidelines for Passengers

  • Indian citizens must carry valid ID proof (Aadhar Card); foreign nationals must have a passport.
  • Weather conditions in high-altitude areas are unpredictable; stay updated.
  • Pilgrims should be physically and mentally fit for the journey.
  • Carry an oxygen bottle if you are prone to altitude sickness.
  • Pack woolen clothing, as temperatures drop significantly in the evenings.
  • Bring a first-aid kit and prescribed medications for any medical conditions.
  • Emergency landings are not possible, so ensure a medical check-up before the trip.
  • Baggage allowance is 5 kg per passenger; avoid large suitcases.

Terms & Conditions

  • Indian citizenship is mandatory for pilgrims.
  • Valid ID proof (passport, Aadhar, driving license) is required.
  • Pilgrims must be in good health; those with chronic conditions must provide a doctor’s certificate.
  • Advance booking is necessary for smooth arrangements.
  • The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions.
  • Health issues or dietary needs should be communicated in advance.
  • The tour operator reserves the right to modify or cancel the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Appropriate dress code must be followed to respect the sanctity of the pilgrimage.
  • Littering and damaging temple property is strictly prohibited.
  • Pilgrims must respect all religious beliefs and maintain discipline throughout the tour.

Package Cost

For pricing details, contact us:
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +91 9810594172 / +91 9350371499

Embark on a divine and luxurious Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter for an unforgettable spiritual experience!

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

Luxury India Textile Tour of Rajasthan

Bagru Block Printing

TEXTILES OF RAJASTHAN

textiles of Rajasthan

Your itinerary at a glance…..

Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Stay at The Grand New Delhi Hotel for 2 nights.

Day 2: Explore markets of Delhi and enjoy an orientation tour of Delhi

Day 3: Fly to Udaipur. Stay at Amet Haveli for 2 nights. Evening boat ride on Lake Pichola.

Day 4: Full day to explore Lahariya Printing of Udaipur and Dabu Printing of Akola.

Day 6: Drive to Jalore. Stay overnight at Ravla Bhenswara. Visit Moti Bharat textile centre.

Day 7: Drive to Jodhpur. Stay for 2 nights at Indana Hotel.

Day 8: Visit Mehranagarh Fort in the morning. Afternoon we visit textile workshops.

Day 9: Drive to Jaipur visit Bagru workshop en route. Stay at Four Point by Sheraton for 3 nights.

Day 10: Enjoy Holi celebrations today!

Day 11: Morning excursion to Amber Fort. Afternoon visit block printing workshop at Sanganer.

Day 12: Drive to Agra for a night at Crystal Sarovar Premier.

Day 13: Visit Taj Mahal before driving to Delhi. Stay at The Connaught Hotel for 2 nights

Day 14: The day is at leisure to enjoy last minute shopping or visit some sights.

Day 15: Fly back home

TEXTILE TOUR OF RAJASTHAN

Day 01: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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:  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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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

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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

5N/6D Sri Lanka Wildlife Tour

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

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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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Mesmerizing Meghalaya Tour

Women Weavers Society Guwahati

Tour Plan: Guwahati – Shillong – Cherrapunjee – Mawllynnong – Shillong – Guwahati .

6N/7D Mesmerizing Meghalaya Tour – Itinerary Details

Day 1:  GUWAHATI

Arrive Guwahati and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Later visit Women Weaver’s Society & Kamakhya Devi Temple.

Women Weavers Society Guwahati

Kamakhya Devi Guwahati

Overnight in Hotel.

Day 2:  GUWAHATI – SHILLONG via Umden village (approx. 160 kms/4-5 hrs.)

After breakfast drive to Shillong via Umden village also called Silk village of Meghalaya, where you can see and experience the farming of Silk worm and weaving the silk, see the traditional weaving and dying of colors not with chemicals but with bio and natural way of dying with tree leaves, turmeric, fruits etc.

Silk village of Meghalaya

After visiting Umden village continue your drive to Shillong & enroute stopover at Umiam lake to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area and later transfer to your hotel for overnight stay. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 3:  SHILLONG – David Scott’s Trail – Hike from Mawphlang to Ladmawphlang (16 km, 5 – 6 hrs) – CHERRAPUNJI (about 60 kms/1-2 hrs.)

Mawphlang village Meghalaya

After breakfast drive to Mawphlang village (approx. 25 kms/45 mins) and continue to your trail till Ladmawphlang village and continue your drive to Cherrapunji. O/n Hotel/resort.

David Scott, British Administrator, political agent to the British Raj. His operations and reach stretched about 29 years (1802-1832) in the Khasi Hills and the surrounding low-lying areas. These areas are now in Bangladesh and the Indian states of Meghalaya and Assam. This was originally the horse-cart road that connected the plains of Slyhet (now in Bangladesh) to Assam.

Day 4: CHERRAPUNJEE

Full day visit Arwah Caves, Nohkalikai Water Falls, Mawsmai Cave & Seven Sisters water fall (one of the longest in India).

arwah cave cherrapunjee meghalaya

Nohkalikai WaterFalls cherrapunjee meghalaya

Mawsmai Cave cherrapunjee meghalaya

Seven Sisters water fall cherrapunjee meghalaya

After lunch in a resort in Cherrapunji, evening relax OR free on your own.

Day 5: CHERRAPUNJI – MAWLLYNNONG – SHILLONG (about 190 kms/5-6 hrs.)

Morning after breakfast drive to Mawllynnong-cleanest village in Asia. Enroute stopover at view point to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

Mawllynnong-cleanest village in Asia meghalaya

On arrival at Reyik village (approx. 02 kms behind Mawllynnong) visit Single decker living root bridge inside the jungle, later visit and enjoy the locally made watch tower, made up of bamboos. This watch tower gives you 360 degree view of the surrounding area.

Meghalaya

After lunch in a Home Stay we drive back to Shillong for overnight stay.

Day 6:  SHILLONG

A day at leisure OR visit Don Bosco Cultural Museum & walk around Police Bazaar (The Mall Road) of Shillong town, famous for roadside shops and souvenir shops.

Don Bosco Cultural Museum Shillong

Police Bazaar Shillong

Overnight in Hotel/Resort.

Day 7: SHILLONG-GUWAHATI (about 110 kms/02-03 hrs.) – Depart for homeward destination.

Morning after breakfast drive back to Guwahati and straight transfer to airport for your onward flight to onward destination.

— End of Tour —

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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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Bengaluru Through Its Markets — The Pete Walk

At the heart of Bengaluru lies its markets, locally called “pete”. This is where the locals come each morning to pick out the freshest vegetables, spices, silks or maybe even plan a wedding. This is the epicenter of business for local and migrant traders in the city. We’ll walk around the many markets that dot the old quarters and take breaks to fuel up on delicious local treats. This half day walking tour will give you a perspective into our city’s origins, an introduction to the local way of life and photo opportunities that are unrivalled.

Highlights:

• Stories of the origins of Bengaluru and its many legends.
• A walk through the flower market with a heady scent of freshly picked flowers —a photographer’s delight.
• A visit to an old Hindu temple and one of the First Palaces in the city.
• An insight into the intricacies of jewelry making and the fine art of silk dying and weaving.
• Snack on some traditional delicacies at a local eatery.

Duration – Half Day (5 Hours)
Tour Days: Every day of the week
Start Time: 8 am
Walking Distance: 5 km

Bengaluru in a Nutshell (Full day tour)

Our Bengaluru in a Nutshell day long tour is a wonderful way to explore the city if it’s your first time in the city and you have just one day to explore some “must see” sights and hidden treasures that are off the guidebook. Start with a walk through our historical gardens, visit palaces, explore the hustle and bustle of the local market and even try eating with your hands on a traditional plantain leaf meal. Kickstart your India visit with a local, pick up inside tips on where to discover culture, gastronomy, and nightlife and you’ll witness a microcosm of India all within a day in Bengaluru.

Highlights:
• Learn of the founding story of Bengaluru
• A guided walk in the iconic Bangalore Palace
• A visit to an ancient temple to observe the influence of the largest empire that reigned the Dravidian region.
• A visit to a Hindu cemetery to witness ancient black magic practices
• Learn to eat with your hands with a finger-licking traditional meal
• An insight into the fine art of silk dying and weaving

Duration – Full Day (8 Hours)
Tour Days: Monday through Sunday, any day and every day
Start Time: 7 am to 4:00 PM
Drive tour with minimal walking


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Bengaluru by Tuk Tuk

Riding in a tuk tuk is a unique experience in itself. Weave your way through the hustle and bustle of the city as we take you on a memorable tuk tuk journey exploring the cultural diversity of Bengaluru. On this tour you’ll ride through bustling markets, quaint eateries, old churches and temples and meet local craftsmen. It’s going to be quite like a local breakfast dish called “chow chow bhath” (we’ll teach you how to pronounce it), which includes a sweet dish and a savory one, eaten together to get the best of both worlds in one go!

Highlights:
• Walk through one of the first Palace in the city
• Visit a 17th Century temple
• Visit an old church and learn of colonial Bengaluru
• A tour of the flower market
• An insight into the fine art of silk dying and weaving
• A scrumptious meal to relish authentic and local dishes

Duration – Half Day (6 Hours)
Tour Days: All days of the week
Start Time: 8 am
Tuk Tuk Ride Distance: 19 km


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“Good Morning Bengaluru” Cycling Trail

The ideal hours to explore a city is in its waking hours. A time when the city bares its soul going about a peaceful symphony of prepping for a day of hustle, especially so in India’s start up capital. Step away with us from the hustle and ride through our old quarters witnessing traditions and old school routines of starting the day. We’ll visit ancient temples frequented by the locals and even stop by for some delicious Bengaluru breakfast that is raved about. This is the calm before the storm and its best experienced with a cheery “Good Morning, Bengaluru”

Highlights:

• An early morning ride exploring the city waking up
• Visit a medieval era cave temple of historical significance
• Breakfast at an iconic old timer’s favorite joint
• A glimpse into the traditions of the locals
• Cycle through the old quarters of Bengaluru

Duration – Half Day (Approximately 4 Hours)
Trail Days: All days of the week
Start Time: 6:30 am
Cycling Distance: 10 km


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The Maharajah Walk

Walk the path lead by the ingenuity of the Maharajahs of Mysuru. On this half day walk, let us walk you through their innovative political systems, their contribution in the economic, banking, art and educational sectors. This walk includes a delicious local breakfast and a goody bag of the famed Mysuru nugget coffee. The Maharajah walk is ideal for travelers who want to take a journey through time soaking in the past and the present of Mysuru.

Highlights:

  • A guided walk inside the grand Amba Vilas Palace
  • Walk along the palace past its architectural monuments, old alleyways, markets and gardens
  • Witness the many monuments that symbolize the remnants of Colonial relations.
  • Take home some locally grown and roasted coffee
  • Breakfast at an old timer’s cafe

Duration : Half Day ( 4 hours)

Tour Days : All days of the Week

Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00

Walking Distance: 5 KM


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Mysuru in a Nutshell (by Tuk Tuk or Car)

Mysuru in a Nutshell (by Tuk Tuk or Car) is a day long tour exploring some of the “Must see” highlights of Mysuru and its hidden gems. Begin your day actively with a customary climb up Chamundi hills with a brief introduction to Yoga. Taste some local delicacies for breakfast. Be ready to soak in all things Mysuru through its vibrant markets, meet local artists and shop where the locals do and end the day with a guided visit to the silk weaving units and a walk through the Amba Vilas Palace.

Highlights:

    • Climb up Chamundi hills to learn of the founding of Mysuru
    • Feast on local delicacies at an old timers’ favorite eatery
    • Walk through the local market
    • Visit a silk weaving unit
    • Visit to an artisan’s street
    • A guided walk through the Amba Vilas Palace

Duration – 6 + Hours

Tour Days – Monday to Saturday

Start Time – 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM


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Luxury Rajasthan Tour

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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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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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!

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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.

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

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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

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.

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Heritage Nature & Wildlife Tour of Central India

Wild India in style with Taj Safari Lodges

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of India’s rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife on this meticulously planned tour. Begin your adventure in Delhi, where you’ll delve into the historical tapestry of Old Delhi, exploring its vibrant market lanes and majestic landmarks like the Jama Masjid and Red Fort. In New Delhi, marvel at the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhawan and the solemnity of India Gate before visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutb Minar, and the exquisite Humayun’s Tomb.

Journey onward to Agra, where the iconic Taj Mahal awaits, bathed in the golden hues of dawn. Traverse to Orchha, a hidden gem boasting architectural marvels like the Ram Raja Temple and Chhatris, before immersing yourself in the untamed wilderness of Panna Tiger Reserve. Discover the raw beauty of nature as you venture deep into the heart of Pench National Park and Satpura National Park, where thrilling encounters with tigers, leopards, and diverse avifauna await at every turn. Conclude your odyssey with an exploration of the ancient temples of Khajuraho and the tranquil landscapes of Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve before bidding farewell to India’s enchanting tapestry of cultures and wildlife.

Duration: 16N/17D

Destinations Covered

Delhi: Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Old Delhi is a labyrinth of narrow lanes, bustling bazaars, and ancient monuments. Chandni Chowk, with its bustling marketplaces and delectable street food, is a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and heritage.

Agra: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is synonymous with eternal love and architectural splendor. Besides the Taj Mahal, visitors can explore the imposing Agra Fort and the exquisite tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, showcasing the city’s rich Mughal heritage.

Orchha: Nestled on the banks of the Betwa River, Orchha is a charming town dotted with magnificent palaces, temples, and cenotaphs. Its architectural wonders, including the Ram Raja Temple and Chhatris, reflect the grandeur of its erstwhile rulers, the Bundela Rajputs.

Panna National Park: Situated in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Panna National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from dense forests to rocky plateaus, provide a habitat for elusive big cats like tigers and leopards, along with a myriad of other wildlife species.

Pench National Park: Inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book,” Pench National Park is a picturesque wilderness teeming with wildlife. Its dense forests and meandering rivers harbor a thriving population of tigers, leopards, deer, and over 200 species of birds, offering visitors a truly immersive jungle experience.

Khajuraho: Renowned for its exquisite temples adorned with intricate carvings, Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples, built between the 9th and 11th centuries, depict a remarkable blend of spirituality and sensuality, showcasing the artistic prowess of the Chandela dynasty.

Bhopal: The capital city of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal is a charming amalgamation of old-world charm and modernity. From its scenic lakes and verdant landscapes to its historic monuments and vibrant bazaars, Bhopal offers a delightful mix of cultural and natural attractions.

Satpura National Park: Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Satpura mountain range, Satpura National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. Its pristine forests, meandering rivers, and diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and sloth bears, beckon adventurers to explore its untamed beauty.

Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve: Maharashtra’s oldest and largest national park, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity and high tiger population. With its dense forests, grassy meadows, and tranquil water bodies, Tadoba offers visitors a chance to witness the majesty of the Indian wilderness up close.

Detailed Tour Plan

Day 1: Arrive Delhi and transfer from airport to hotel.

Half day sightseeing tour of Old Delhi. Today you will explore Old Delhi, once the Mughal city of Shahjahanabad, with its vibrant market lanes, old havelis (mansions) and colourful neighbourhoods. Explore Chandni Chowk in a cycle rickshaw through lanes or gallis, where everything from spices, brassware, antiques, jewellery and perfumes are sold. Visit the highly decorative Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; its courtyard can accommodate 25000 devotees to offer prayer at one time and later drive past the Red Fort and visit Raj Ghat, a memorial built for Mahatma Gandhi.

Day 2: Delhi

Today enjoy a tour of New Delhi starts with a drive past Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the President of India, Raj Path and the India Gate whose Amar Jawan Jyoti (eternal flame) has been burning since 1971 and symbolizes the sacrifice of Indian soldiers. A visit to the Qutb Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lastly visit the first garden tomb built by the Mughals in India – the Humayun’s tomb.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra

Travel to Agra by morning train. You will be transferred to hotel. Later in the day visit the Agra Fort & Itamud ud Daula. The impressive Diwan-e-Am & Diwan-e-Khas inside the forbidding red sandstone battlements of the Agra Fort and later the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, father of Queen Nur Jehan. Late in the afternoon visit the Taj Mahal to see the sun cast a fantastic orange glow on the white dome of one of the world’s great monuments.

Day 4: Agra – Jhansi – Orccha – Panna

Board morning train to Jhansi. On arrival, you will drive to Orchha – a town founded in the 16th century by Bundela Rajput Chief, Rudra Pratap. Orchha has some unique temples and many heritage buildings.

Ram Raja temple is the only place where Lord Ram is worshipped both as a God and as a King. The Laxmi Narayan temple exhibits a unique architectural style, which is a mix of a fort and a temple. The famed Chhatris of Orchha are Cenotaphs that were constructed in honour of its erstwhile rulers. After vsiting Orccha, continue driving to Panna National Park – a tiger reserve.

Panna Tiger Reserve is a critical tiger habitat located in Vindhya Hill in northern Madhya Pradesh and fragile through dynamic dry deciduous forest. This land is characterized by extensive plateaus and gorges. Tiger the king of the jungle, roams freely in this secure, though a bit small habitat alongwith his fellow beings leopard , wild dog , wolf , hyaena and smaller cats. Sloth bear has his most favourite home in the rock escarpments and undisturbed vales. The wooded areas are dotted with sambar the largest of Indian deers, chital and chowsingha . One can easily see Blue Bull and chinkara in most open areas in the grasslands, especially on the periphery. The avifauna comprises more than 200 species including a host of migratory birds.

Day 5 & 6: Pench

Enjoy two full day of jungle activities including a jeep safari, nature walks etc.

Day 7: Panna – Khajuraho

Drive to Khajuraho this morning. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the small town of Khajuraho houses the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculpture.

This afternoon visit the renowned temples of Khajuraho. These intricately carved temples, set amidst pretty gardens, are famous for their erotic reliefs.

Day 8: Khajuraho – Jhansi  – Bhopal

Take a day train to Bhopal. On arrival at the station and transferred to your hotel. One of the greenest cities in India, Bhopal is located at the upper end of the Vindhya mountain range and is a former royal state. This morning visit the open air zoological gardens. Later visit the Upper and Lower lake, the impressive Taj-ul-Masjid and other impressive buildings and stop for a browse through its atmospheric main bazaar. In the afternoon visit the State Museum and the Tribal Museum before returning to your hotel. If required you can also visit the old city to see the mansions and traditional markets.

Day 9: Bhopal – Satpura

Morning drive from Bhopal to Satpura. Afternoon game drives in the jungle.

One of the most spectacular of its kind in India, Satpura National Park is spread across the highest stretch of the rugged Satpura mountains and stretches out to 524 square kilometres. The birdlife is reputed to be matchless and the astonishing array of prey species: various types of deer and antelope and their predators tiger, leopard, wild dogs, woves and sloth bear invite you to experience wilderness without the crowds seen in other national parks. The densely forested hills of sal and teak, bamboo, grasses and medicinal plants along with the sparkling waters of the Tawa reservoir can be visited by jeep and boat as well as atop an elephant. Unknown in any other national park, walking safaris inside the park are becoming increasingly popular as well.

Day 10: Satpura

Enjoy a full day of jungle activities including a jeep safari, nature walks and boat ride.

Day 11: Satpura – Pench

Enjoy an early morning game drive in the national park. Later drive to Pench for 2 night stay.

Day 12: Pench

Morning and afternoon game drive.

Pench National Park is situated to the south of Satpura Hills and is named after the river that flows through this area. With tropical moist deciduous forests, the park spreads out to 275 square kilometers in the states of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. As per the census of 2011, the park is home to 25 tigers and apart from 39 species of mammals and reptiles, the park is also rich in birdlife.

Day 13: Pench – Tadoba

Enjoy an early morning game drive in the national park. Later drive to Tadoba.

Day 14: Tadoba

Enjoy morning and afternoon by safaris / Jungle activities.

The Taboba-Andhari Tiger Reserve is the largest and oldest national park in Maharashtra, and sufficiently off the beaten track to have escaped the attention of the hordes, despite boasting one of the highest tiger density figures in the country. Nearly 87% of the reserve is covered in beautiful dry deciduous forest – a renowned storehouse of rare trees and medicinal plants. Over 60 tigers live within and around the park borders, along with leopard, wild dog, striped hyena, gaur, nilgai, sambar, chital, civet cats, marsh crocodiles and nearly 200 species of birds.

Day 15: Tadoba

Enjoy another morning and afternoon by safaris / Jungle activities.

Day 16: Tadoba – Nagpur – Mumbai

Enjoy morning jeep safari in the national park. After safari, you will be driven to Nagpur airport and fly to Mumbai. You will stay in a hotel close to aitrport.

Day 17: Depart Mumbai

In good time, you will be transferred to Mumbai airport to board your homebound flight.

End of Tour

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

Odin Tours offers custom made birding tours in Delhi and surrounding areas. The expert knowledge is combined with client requirements and a private guided tour is arranged for our clients. Given below is the list of areas covered in Delhi NCR for bird photography tours.

Okhla Bird Sanctuary (OBS)

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

OBS is one of the beautiful bird sanctuary at the Okhla barrage over Yamuna river. It is situated on the border of Delhi and Noida, separated by river Yamuna. OBS is one of the 466 International bird area (IBA) sites in India. The area covers roughly 4 square kilometers.

OBS is also known as heaven of birds, not only birds it also surprises visitors with sighting of insect, reptile, amphibian, mammal. Due to Yamuna river every year many migratory birds visits to the sanctuary. It’s unique positioning attracted more than 324 bird species are reported from OBS, out of that 50% are migratory and 36% are resident. OBS has also been a wonderful place for sighting of beautiful butterflies (30 species) and some attractive dragonflies and damselflies. Amphibians and reptiles species are also point of attraction.

Habitats: – Sanctuary is surrounded with variety of plants both native and exotic species. The body is mainly covered in patches by aquatic plants along the deltas and banks having a verity of trees which is good habitats for birds.

Best time to visit: Winters are the best time for migratory birds. List of birds are flamingoes, northern shoveler, black francolin, brown fish owl, spotted owlet, pied cuckoo, Sarus crane, pelican, pheasant tailed jacana, river tern, Indian vulture, shikra and many more,. Summer is good time for insect such as butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies, grass hoppers and many more species.

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Surajpur Bird Sanctuary – Greater Noida

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

Surajpur is the wonderful example of natural forest of urban wetland on the bank of Yamuna river basin. It is situated near surajpur village in dadri tehsil of distric gautam budh nagar under greater Noida development authority of UP, India. Surajpur is about 55 km from Delhi and 26 km from Noida. It is well connected with excellent Yamuna expressway.

Uttar Pradesh forest department in collaboration with WWF this wetland set a unique example of protection and conservation of biodiversity close to urban areas.

Habitat: – The floral and faunal diversity and habitat sets a unique example of flora and fauna including heronry of birds, insects, mammals and reptiles. During the winter time migratory birds and butterflies are spotted along with beautiful plants.

Spotting of remarkable special birds like Asian open bill stork, white-necked stork, black-crowned night heron and black headed ibis. This wetland also supports the breeding of some rare birds like bristled grass birds, black-necked stroke and states bird sarus crane.

184 species of birds in which 101 species are resident and 53 species are winter migrant.

Area of marsh, den peat land water weather natural or artificial, permanent or temporary with water that is static or flowing.

Best time to visit: – winter for birds, summer for insects, reptiles. rainy season: – During rainy season beauty of landscape is amazing with greenery view of tall trees and birds sound.

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Sultanpur National Park – Gurgaon

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours Sultanpur National park also known as Sultanpur bird sanctuary. Sultanpur National Park is situated in Gurgaon district of Haryana on Gurgaon Farukh nagar road. The distance from Gurgaon city is about 15 kilometers and from Delhi about 41 kilometers.

A paradise for birds and birders. This park is famous for migratory as well as resident birds. The lake in center also a attraction point for bird and birders. It covers the area of around 2 kilometers. Major attraction of the park are 250 species of birds along with some of the distant regions migrants from Siberia, Europe and Afghanistan.

Key attritions Migratory birds: – Siberian cranes, greater flamingo, rulf, black winged stilt, common teal, common green shank, northern shoveler, rosy pelican, gadwall, wood sandpiper, spotted sandpiper, eurasian wigeon, black tailed godwit, spotted red-shank, starling, blue throat, pipit etc,.

Resident birds: common hoopoe, purple sunbird, black francolin, little cormorant, Indian cormorant, paddyfield pipit and many more.

Best time to Visit: – Winters from November to February, During summer March to May. The park is marked closed for visitors from June to October due to breeding sessions like other national park of the country.

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Basai wetland

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

Basai wetland is located less than 40 km away from the Delhi and about 2km from grugaon city in Gurgaon district of Haryana state. It is just before 8 kms of sutanpur national park in Haryana.

Basai wetland is permanent shallow wetland covering of about 250 acres. It includes area with open water. The wetland supports a high diversity of birds with at least 239 species. The wetland is also recognized as a birding hotspot in ebirds with 282 birds species recorded as of may 2017. The wetland included to an area of about 1square kilometers during the  monsoon by rain water.

This little wetland with high concentration of birds is currently great threat from ongoing constriction.

Key attraction birds :-

Bar headed goose, Sarus crane, Black napped IBIS, Common starling, Grey heron, Pied avocet, Marsh harrier, Short eared owl, Isabelline shrike, Wire tailed swallow, Pheasant tailed jacana, Indian bush lark, Pacific golden plover and many more.

Best time to visit: anytime of the year winter is the best for migratory bird.

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Dhanauri wetland – Greater Noida

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

Dhanauri wetland is located at greater Noida 45 kilometers from Noida. Utter Pradesh and 60 km from delhi in india. It is beautiful place which hosts thousand of migratory birds.

Habitat: water bodies, arshes and other patches in the district.

Sarus crane are one of the best attraction of Dhanauri.

Best Time to Visit: – any time during the year the state bird of utterpradesh can be spotted easily. However, winters are the best time.

Attraction for visitors: –

More than 200 birds along with Sarus crane,Painted Stork,Pheasant-Tailed Jacana,Bronze-Winged Jacana,Baya Weaver,Green Bee Eater,Marsh Harrier,Ashy Prinia,Grey heron,Purple heron,Cattle egret,Large egret,Little grebe,Cormorant,Smaller egret,Little egret,Night heron,Wolly Necked Stork,White ibis,Spoonbill,Greylag goose,Bar-headed goose,Lesser whistling teal,Ruddy shelduck,Pintail,Common teal,Spot-billed duck,Gadwall,Wigeon,Shoveller,Comb duck,Godwit.

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Aravali Biodiverity Park, Gurgaon

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

Aravali biodiversity park one of the most incredible ecological transformation that Delhi has seen so far. Covers an across of 692 acres surrounded with Delhi, Vasantvihar and Gurgaon. This biodiversity park has become a home for over 1000 different species of plants 190 species of birds, 90 species of butterflies and over a lakhs species of insect and 24 species of reptiles. Black eagle spotted after 88 years in Delhi. Eurasian eagle owl it is sometime referred to as the world largest owl. Orange headed thrush: it is an omnivorous bird eats both insect and seeds. Honey buzzard, Streaked waver.

List of birds:

Best time to visit: Anytime is fine. Winters are the peak session for migratory bird.

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Yamuna Biodiversity park, Wazirabad Delhi

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

Yamuna biodiversity park is one of the most visited public place and prominent center for learning and understanding the environment. It has become a home for biologically rich wetlands, grassland communities a wide verity of fruits.

This park also comprises a native flora and fauna, which used to exist 100 years ago and then become extinct locally. The Yamuna biodiversity park is presently spread over an area of approximately 457 acres near wazirabad village on the flat alluvial plants of the Yamuna. The biodiversity park is 15 km from north-east of Connaught place and 4km north of ISBT.

The herbal garden at the Yamuna biodiversity park has a collect of around 450 living species. Include butterfly birds, mammal residential and migratory birds also.

Butterfly conservatory at the YBP is a major ecotourism destination for visitors and nature lovers.

Birds survive and breed in this area are:

Grey heron, spotted owl, red-vented bulbul, indian grey hornbill, tufled pochard, scaly breasted munia, darter and other birds are yellow footed green pigeon, black-headed munia, red munia, shikra, silverbill, cormorant, tailor birds, oriental white eye, eurasion scops owl, darter, peacock, migratiory duck and many more birds.

Other than birds visitors attractions are Mangoose, common krait (snake), jungle cat, fishes, indian hare, hoplobatraces tigernus (frog), soft shell turtle, rat snake, asaian common toad, monitor lizard. Dragonfly and damselflies, indian cobra and many more.

Best season to visit: is anytime of the year but for migratory birds best time is winters.

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K.G wetland, Palwal, Haryana

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

K.G wetland is about 75 kms from Delhi.  It is in Haryana on a distance of 55 kms from Delhi border.

It is very sad that very less birders are familiar about this wetland. It is accessible from the road itself the biggest benefit for the photographer and the watcher. This wetland is home of many migratory species along with resident birds. Birding or photography can be done from own vehicle you will get nice broken clear background, less disturbed area specially with local and not too many visitors also.

Birds you may get hear like greater spotted eagle, marsh harrier, osprey, sarus crane, Egyptian vulture, spotted owlet, black partridges, black-tailed godwits, blue throat, chestrnut-shoulderred, petronia, Egyptian vulture, Indian roller, kestred, little ringed plover, sarus crane, tree pipits, wooly-necked strock, rivertern, greater flamingoes, rudy shelduck, pelican and many small birds.

Best time to visit:- during winter for migratory ducks passages migrants and resident for rest of the year.

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Dighal Bahadurgarh Haryana

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

A village still far from the concrete of the city. Dighal is in district Jhajjar of Haryana india. It is well connected with NH71 between Rohtak and Jhajjar on approx. distance of 65kms from the Indira Gandhi Airport (IGI) New Delhi.

Dighal village is surrounded by natural water bodies making it a favorite destination for a large species of migratory birds.

Dighal with over 200 acres of submerged field, hundreds of species of migratory birds.

Some rare birds sight here is: Marbled teal and greater white fronted goose, ruddy turnstone, little heron, greater flamingoes, sarus cranes, teak, sandpipers, indian spotted eagle, booted eagle, Shikra, kestrel are seen here. 201 species are found here in which some are resident and migratory.

Wetland offers many different birds just few km away. There is a place where carcus of dead animal are left which attract maximum of raptors.

Best time to visit: Winders are the peak session for migratory birds, rest of year common birds shall be easily spotted.

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Shesh Sai, Hodal, Haryana

Delhi NCR Bird Photography Tours

Shesh Sai Hodal is about 100km away from Delhi. It is a heaven for bird lovers. During winters it get into a heaven for migratory birds. Hodal is surrounded with greenery and field. Hodal is amoung one of the favourite places among birders. 100 + birds are the attraction of the area.

Birders might spot not very common birds here such as Bar-headed geese feeding on the weight field ground, sparrow, darter, white Tailed Lapwing.

Best time to Visit: Winders are the best to see migratory birds in Hodal. Rest of the year common birds are there to welcome the visitors.

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Ladakh Bird Photography Tour

Ladakh Bird Photography Tour

Ladakh (“land of high passes”) is a region in Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir that currently extends from the Kunlun mountain range to the main Great Himalayas to the south, inhabited by people of Indo-Aryan and Tibetan descent. It is one of the most sparsely populated regions in Jammu and Kashmir and its culture and history are closely related to that of Tibet.

Historically, the region included the Baltistan (Baltiyul) valleys (now mostly in Pakistan), the entire upper Indus Valley, the remote Zanskar, Lahaul and Spiti to the south, much of Ngari including the Rudok region and Guge in the east, Aksai Chin in the northeast (extending to the Kun Lun Mountains), and the Nubra Valley to the north over Khardong La in the Ladakh Range. Contemporary Ladakh borders Tibet to the east, the Lahaul and Spiti regions to the south, the Vale of Kashmir, Jammu and Baltiyul regions to the west, and the southwest corner of Xinjiang across the Karakoram Pass in the far north. Ladakh is renowned for its remote mountain beauty and culture.

Travel Itinerary:

Day 1- Pick up from Leh airport and transfer to a guest house, lunch at guest house, afternoon walk to the local market for acclimatization, get permit for Chushul area, night stay on twin sharing basis at guest house. 

Day 2- Morning birding around Sindhu Ghat area and visit to Hemis Monastery, Rancho’s School and Shey Palace after finishing morning birding session. Lunch at Hemis Monastery, afternoon birding at Shey marshes, return to guest house during evening and night stay on twin sharing basis.  

Day 3- Early morning departure for Nubra Valley, bird and landscape photography on way, evening visit to sand dunes, night stay at Hunder 

Day 4- Morning birding around guest house, check out after breakfast and departure for Leh, birding on way, arrival at Leh during evening and night stay at guest house on twin sharing basis.

 Day 5- Early morning departure for Pangong, birding and landscape photography on way, arrival at a camping site at Spangmik, check in and lunch at camp. Afternoon birding around Spangmik, night stay on twin sharing basis in deluxe tents. 

Day 6- Bird and landscape photography during morning hours, check out after early breakfast and departure for Hanle via Chusul, photography on way, night stay in a guest house at Hanle on twin sharing basis. 

Day 7- Whole day wildlife and landscape photography around Hanle, night stay in twin sharing basis. 

Day 8- Departure for Tso Kar after morning birding and breakfast at Hanle, night stay at Tso Kar in a guest house on twin sharing basis. 

Day 9 – Whole day wildlife and landscape photography at Tsokar, night stay at Tsokar 

Day 10- Morning birding around Tso Kar and departure for Leh after breakfast, birding on way to Leh, arrival at Leh during evening and night stay in a guest house on twin sharing basis. 

Day 11- Early morning drop off at Leh airport. Tour Concludes.

—End of Tour —

Target Birds Chukar Partridge, Himalayan Snowcock, Tibetan Snowcock, Snow Partridge, Tibetan Partridge, Goosander, Black-necked Crane, Upland Buzzard, Bearded Vulture, Tibetan Snowfinch, Blanford’s Snowfinch Brandt’s Mountain Finch, Twite, Hume’s Groundpecker, Horned Lark, White-throated Dipper, Guldenstadt’s Redstart, Eurasian Magpie, Little Owl, Beautiful Rosefinch, Great Rosefinch, Tibetan Lark, Ibisbill, Wallcreeper, Tibetan Sandgrouse etc.

Target Mammals

Himalayan Marmot, Tibetan Wild Ass, Red Fox, Argali, Bharal, Ladakh Pika, Plateau Pika, Nubra Pika, Woolly Hare, Desert Hare, Stoliczka’s Mountain Vole, Wolf etc.

Tour Cost For Price Contact Us

Minimum Group Size

03 + 01 i.e. 03 participants and 01 group leader in one Innova/Xylo/Aria

Sattal-Pangot Bird Photography Tour

Sattal-Pangot Bird Photography Tour

Sattal or Sat Tal (Hindi for “seven lakes”) is an interconnected group of seven freshwater lakes situated in the Lower Himalayan Range near Bhimtal, a town of the Nainital district in Uttarakhand, India. During the British Raj, the area had a tea plantation, one of four in the Kumaon area at that time. The lakes sit at an altitude of 1370 metres below lush orchards in the Mehragaon valley. Set amongst dense forests of oak and pine trees, Sattal is one of the few unspoiled and unpolluted freshwater biomes in India.

Travel Itinerary:

Day 1- Early morning pick up from Kathgodam Railway Station (arrival from Delhi by Ranikhet Express at 05:05 hrs) and transfer to hotel at Sattal. Check in (if rooms are available early morning otherwise rooms will be allotted after 10:00 hrs), freshen up and birding at Sattal Studio Point with packed breakfast. Back to hotel for lunch. Afternoon birding around Studio Point. Night stay on twin sharing basis.

Day 2- Morning birding around studio point. Afternoon birding at Chaanfi area.

Day 3- Morning birding at Sattal main road. Check out and Transfer to Pangot. Check in at hotel at Pangot, lunch at Pangot, afternoon birding at Timlipani trail. Night stay on twin sharing basis.

Day 4- Morning birding on Kunjakharak road. Afternoon birding around lodge and on Kilburry area. Check out from lodge at 18:00 hrs and transfer to Kathgodam Railway Station. Train departure time for Delhi: 20:40 hrs.

—End of Tour —
Target Birds: Cheer Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Hill Partridge, Rufous-throated Partridge, Bearded Vulture, Himalayan Buzzard, Black Eagle, Grey-winged Blackbird, Long-billed Thrush, White-crested Laughingthrush, Striated Laughingthrush, Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush, Striated Laughingthrush, Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler, White-browed Scimitar Babbler, Brown Dipper, Crested Kingfisher, Long-tailed Broadbill, Blue-throated Blue Flycatcher, Verditer Flycatcher, Ultramarine Flycatcher, Mountain Bulbul, Black-throated Sunbird, Mountain Scops Owl, Collared Owlet etc.   

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Bhutan Bird Photography Tour

Bhutan Birding Tour

Bhutan covers an area of 38,394 sq km (14,824 sq ft.), roughly the size of Switzerland, but the country has a small population of less the 1 million inhabitants. Thus, opportunities for peace and solitude in a striking mountain setting are unrivalled. Lying in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan’s topography is almost completely mountainous, with steep slopes and altitudes varying from 150 m (492 ft.) to 7,500 m (24,600 ft.) within a distance of less than 100 km (62 miles). The northern border of Bhutan lies in the main Himalayan chain on the southern edge of the Tibetan plateau. Some of Bhutan’s most famous peaks include Jumolhari at 7,314 m (24,000 ft.) and Gangkhar Puensum at 7,570 m (24,840 ft). In the south, the Bhutan/India border follows the line where the foothills meet the Indian plains; only a few narrow strips of the plains overlap into Bhutan.

Travel Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive Paro – transfer to Thimphu (2hrs drive)The flight into the Himalayas is one of the most scenic and breathtaking one with the views of some of the tallest mountains of the world. On your arrival at the Paro international airport, our representative will receive you. Drive to Thimphu the capital city of Bhutan (2hrs) drive. Check in at Hotel and lunch.

Evening birding around sewage pond in Thimphu searching for the species like Ibisbill, Black-tailed Crake, Wallcreeper, Brown Dipper, Ruddy Shelduck, Common Merganser, White-capped and Plumbeous Water Redstart, White Wagtail, Rufous-breasted Accentor, Common and Green Sandpiper, Common and Crested Kingfisher just to name few…

Overnight: Thimphu

Day: 2- Thimphu – Dochula – Punakha (3 hrs. drive)

After leisure breakfast at the hotel, you’ll proceed to Immigration Office to process your permit that permit you to go beyond Thimphu, the whole process will take you couple of hours.

Then drive to Punakha over the Dochula Pass (3150).  En route Stop at Lamperi Botanical Garden and take the nature walk for about hours, birds we’ll be looking here include Brown Parrotbil, Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler, Eurasian Jay, Strong-footed Bush Warbler, Darjeeling and Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Blue-fronted and Hodgson’s Redstart, Black-faced, Chestnut-crowned and Spotted Laughingthrushes,

Continue your drive to Punakha valley, along the drive you’ll look for the species like Chestnut-tailed Starling, Great and Golden-throated Barbet, Long-tailed Shrike, Spotted Dove, Ultramarine Flycatcher, Red-vented and Black Bulbul, and Common Kestrel.

Later in the evening birding along the Pho Chu valley looking for one of the main target bird, White-bellied Heron. One of the most rare birds in the world, with a population of less then 60  worldwide. Other birds we might see Common and Crested Kingfisher, Ibisbill, River Lapwing, and etc

Overnight: Punakha

Day 3: Full day birding inside Jigme Dorji National Park (1hrs, drive)

You will spend the whole day birding inside the Jigme Dorji National park and along Mo chu River. We have the possibilities of seeing Red–headed Trogon, Wallcreeper, Slaty-bellied Tesia, Small and Large Niltava, Black-chinned Yuhinas, a trio of fork tails, Pygmy and Spotted Wren-babblers, We also have a good chance of finding the species like Oriental Turtle Dove, Great Cormorant, Blue Whistling Thrush, Plumbeous Water Redstart, Rufous Sibia, Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher, Green-backed Tit, Brown Dipper, White-capped Water Redstart, White-throated, Rufous-chinned, Striated and Bhutan Laughingthrush, Golden-throated and  Barbet, Crested Kingfisher, Grey Treepie, Ashy Drongo, Verditer Flycatcher, Brown-throated Treecreeper, Blackthroated Tit, Black Bulbul, Red-vented Bulbul, River Lapwing, Crested Bunting, Grey Wagtail, Gadwall, and Large-billed Crow and with luck Pallas’s Fish Eagle

Overnight: Punakha

Day 4: Punakha – Nobding – Phobjekha (4hrs. drive)

Early morning you’ll wind up your way to the Phobjekha valley (4hrs) stopping along the way looking for Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Grey-hooded, Blyth’s and Black-faced Warblers, Green-tailed and Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird, Striated Prinia, Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush, White-capped River Chat, White-tailed Nuthatch, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Yellow-browed Tits.

Before reaching Pelela pass we’ll take the road to Phobjekha valley, crossing Lawala pass the vegetation changes into dwarf bamboo, here you’ll searching for the species like Spotted, Chectnut-crowned and Black-faced Laughingthrushes, Spotted Nutcracker, Great and Brown Parrotbills, Oriental Skylark, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Red-billed Chough, Hen Harrier, Oriental Skylark and Black-necked Cranes.

Overnight: Phobjekha

Day 5: Phobjekha – Pelela – Paro (6 hrs. drive)

After early breakfast, we’ll drive to the Pelela pass (4000) and spend the morning hours birding along the old road at Pelela for high altitude species like Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant Spotted and Black-faced Laughingthrush, Himalayan Griffon, Brown and Great Parrotbill, Hodgson’s Treecreeper, Collared and White-winged Grosbeak, Blue-fronted and White-throated Redstart, White-browed and Dark-rumped Rosefinch, Plain Mountain Finch, Snow Pigeon, and many more..

Drive to Paro backtracking your way looking for any missing species.

Overnight: Paro.

Day 6: Paro – Chelila Birding (2hrs. drive)

Very early in the morning drive to the cool alpine meadow of Chelila pass (3890m). This is the highest pass on the car road. Here we should be reward with the three different species of Pheasants, Colorful Himalayan Monals, Blood Pheasants and Kalij Pheasants. Beside you’ll also see other birds like Rufous-bellied and Darjeeling Woodpecker, Eurasian Jay, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Spotted Nutcracker, Long-tailed Minivet, Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush, Rufous-gorgetted Flycatcher, White-browed Bush Robin, Orange-flanked Bush Robin, Blue-fronted Redstart, Hodgson’s Treecreeper, Rufous-vented, Coal, Green-backed and Grey-crested Tits, Buff-barred Warbler, Tickell’s Leaf, Blyth’s Leaf Warblers, White-throated, Black-faced, Chestnut-crowned and Spotted Laughingthrushes, Dark-rumped  andWhite-browed Rosefinches, Snow and Rock Pigeon, Himalayan Buzzard, Common Kestrel,White-tailed Nuthatch, Hodgson’s Treecreeper, Grey-sided Bush Warbler and many more…

Evening: Free time to stroll around Paro town

Overnight: Paro

Day 7: Departure

Drop off at Paro Airport after breakfast at hotel.

– End of Tour –

Cost: For Price Contact Us

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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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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