Wildlife of North and South India

18 Days / 17 Nights

For the serious wildlife enthusiast this tour covers some of the finest parks and best spotting opportunities in South Asia. No visit to India would be complete without some of the iconic landmarks as well, and on this journey you will see the Taj Mahal and many more unforgettable sights.

Duration: 17 Nights & 18 Days

Destination Covered: Delhi - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Bharatpur - Agra - Bangalore - Mysore - Kabini River - Mudamalai - Coonoor - Coimbatore

Tour Highlights
Delhi	Red Fort (a UNESCO Heritage site), India Gate, Qutub Minar (a UNESCO Heritage site), Iron Pillar
Jaipur	City Palace, Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal
Ranthambhore	National Park , Safaris , Tigers & other wild animals and birds
Bharatpur	Keoladeo Ghana National Park , Bird watching
Fatehpur Sikri	Indo Islamic Architecture , a UNESCO Heritage site
Agra	Taj Mahal one of the Seven Wonders of the World , UNESCO Heritage site & Agra Fort , a UNESCO site
Mysore	Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Devaraja Market
Nagarhole	National Park , Safaris , Tigers & other wild animals and birds
Bandipur	National Park , Safaris , Tigers & other wild animals and birds
Coonoor	Mountain Train ride from Ooty to Coonoor , a UNESCO Heritage site

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Delhi

On arrival in Delhi, you will be met by our Executive and transferred to your hotel and relax.

Overnight stay in Delhi.
Day 2 : Delhi – sightseeing

After breakfast proceed to explore Delhi. You can visit Red Fort -A UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of India's rich history (which is closed on Mondays). Jama Masjid- One of the largest mosques in India. Raj Ghat- The memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, marking the spot where he was cremated. Chandni Chowk- A bustling market area in Old Delhi, famous for its narrow lanes, vibrant bazaars, street food, etc... Humayun's Tomb- another UNESCO World Heritage site, is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture. Qutub Minar- another UNESCO World Heritage site, Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. The complex also includes several other ancient and medieval structures like Iron Pillar- Located in the courtyard of the Qutub Minar complex and it dates back to the 4th century CE. It stands over 7 meters tall and has not rusted in over 1,600 years, a testament to the advanced metallurgical skill of ancient India. Then driving past the Rajpath (Parliamentary road) in Delhi offers a scenic and symbolic journey through the heart of India's capital, encompassing several significant landmarks and government buildings and then visit India Gate- an iconic war memorial, located at one end of Rajpath, commemorates the Indian soldiers who died during World War I.

Overnight in Delhi.
Day 3 : Delhi – drive to Jaipur

After breakfast drive to Jaipur, check in at your hotel and relax. Jaipur, named after its founder Maharaja Jai Singh II, the city was built in 1727. It was one of the well–planned cities of Medieval India and was based on Shilpa Shastra, the Hindu “science of architecture”. Today it’s the perfect blend of heritage and modernization with infrastructure and modern transportation amidst the old Palaces, monuments and culture. The city becomes the main gateway to the state of Rajasthan.

Jaipur boasts of holding two World Heritage Sites, the Jantar Mantar and the Amer Fort, both known for the Rajput architecture and clever design of engineers from Medieval India.

Later you can walk around the bustling bazaars in Jaipur. The Bapu Bazar of Jaipur is a main stop to shop for some dresses with bandhni prints, footwear, accessories and Rajasthani textiles.

Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Day 4 : Jaipur – sightseeing

After breakfast explore Jaipur. The historic city of Jaipur has many great sights which will be included in your guided (if you have opted for the guide service) sightseeing today – these include Amber Fort on the city’s outskirts, the vast and sumptuous City Palace, the much-photographed Palace of Winds (Hawa Mahal), Jantar Mantar and more. We also strongly recommend exploring the old walled city or another of Jaipur’s historic neighbourhoods by means of a walking tour this afternoon.

Overnight say in Jaipur.
Day 5 : Jaipur – drive to Ranthambhore

After breakfast drive to Ranthambhore, the former hunting preserve of the Maharajas and the Park covers over 400 sq. km and is a scenic marvel. Afternoon take a Safari into the park to see the wild animals including the ‘big cats’ (and it depends on your luck). After the safari, drive back to your hotel and relax.

Overnight stay in Ranthambhore.
Day 6 & 7 : Ranthambhore – Safaris

It is best to allow two full days here to experience the beauty of Ranthambhore and (hopefully) to see plenty of its most famous inhabitants- the Royal Bengal Tiger. Apex predators require a healthy supply of prey, and Ranthambhore is home to large populations of 3 species of deer- Sambar, Spotted and Barking. Also seen in large numbers are langur monkeys, nilgai (blue buck) and less frequent sightings include sloth bears and crocodiles. Morning and late afternoon safaris in the park on both days.

Overnight in Ranthambhore.
Day 8 : Ranthambhore – drive to Bharatpur

After breakfast drive to Bharatpur, this small town is adjacent to the famous Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a large area of wetlands which is home to large concentrations of migratory bird species during the post monsoon and winter months. A great place to explore at dusk (and again at dawn) when the birds are at their most active- the number of species seen can surprise even the most experienced bird-watcher. Take a dusk rickshaw ride or walk around the park accompanied by a local ornithologist.

Overnight at Bharatpur.
Day 9 : Bharatpur - Fatehpur Sikri – Agra

Visit the Park again at dawn, before driving a short distance to Fatehpur Sikri. This beautifully preserved site was briefly the capital of the Moghul Empire before being abandoned due to acute water shortages. The result is an entire complex of buildings, formal areas and courtyards which offer a glimpse of how royalty lived in India some 400 years ago. Continue to Agra and visit Agra Fort which is commonly called the Red Fort of Agra and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overnight in Agra.
Day 10 : Agra – drive to Delhi – FLY- Bangalore

An early start to visit the Taj Mahal at dawn with ample time to enjoy this momentous building. A local guide (if you have opted for the guide service) will explain some of the history and significance of the Taj before allowing you plenty of time to explore on your own. Taj Mahal means "Crown Palace" and is the most beautiful tomb in the world. The marble wonder is the largest and the most extravagant mausoleum built for the sake of love by a person. The Taj is pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening and golden when the moon shines. Later visit Agra Fort- an elegant fort and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Later you will be transferred to Delhi Airport to take your flight (ensure an evening flight) to Bangalore. On arrival in Bangalore, you will be met and transferred to your hotel and relax.

Overnight stay in Bangalore.
Day 11 : Bangalore – Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – Mysore

After breakfast drive to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary where a wide array of exotic species may be seen. For those who love to watch birds and nature lovers, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for them. From Painted Storks to Kingfishers, Cormorants, Darters, Herons, River Terns, Egrets, Indian Rollers, Spoonbills, Spot-billed Pelicans, and more, about 170 different species of birds have been documented in the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Take a riverboat ride, marvel at the diverse array of avian creatures, and get a close-up look at the marsh crocodiles. Later drive to Mysore, check in at your hotel and relax.

Overnight stay in Mysore.
Day 12 : Mysore – sightseeing

Today explore Mysore with your guide (if you have opted the guide service). One of the reasons Mysore attracts tourists is because of its rich history, monuments, palaces, and various heritage sites. Sightseeing in and around Mysore including the Mysore Palace, Chamundi hills, Srirangapatnam Palace…. The Mysore Palace, also known as the “Amba Vilas Palace” is the primary tourist attraction in Mysore. It is renowned for its exquisite architecture and expansive grounds, and it is a rare example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The most famous attraction on the Chamundi hills is Chamundeeshwari temple, a pilgrimage site and you can see a large statue of Nandi (the sacred bull) over there. The optional visit to Srirangapatnam Palace which is also known as the ‘Tippu Sultan Summer Palace’, situated in Srirangapatnam. Later you can explore the wonderful & vibrant heritage market –‘Devaraja market’.

Mysore is also famous for sandalwood products, incense production and weaving.

Overnight in Mysore.
Day 13 : Mysore – drive to Nagarhole

After breakfast drive to Nagarhole, check in at your hotel and relax for a while. Nagerhole is part of the vast Nilgiri Biosphere which stretches across the 3 southern states of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and is the premier region for wildlife in the south of India. Afternoon take a safari at the park to see the Tigers and the other wild animals & birds.

Overnight stay in Nagerhole.
Day 14 : Nagarhole

Nagarhole is one of India’s finest National Parks with a diverse ecosystem, spectacular scenery and many of India’s iconic animal species. The flora and fauna population has improved with a highlight to the tigers, leopards and wild dogs which were endangered earlier, and the avian life is also rich. You will enjoy the morning and afternoon safaris at the park.

Overnight stay in Nagarhole.
Day 15 : Nagarhole – drive to Bandipur

After breakfast drive to Bandipur, check in at your hotel and relax for a while before taking your afternoon safari. Once a hunting ground for a local ruler, the Bandipur National Park today is an important part of the wildlife protection efforts in South India. Located in southern Karnataka, the park actively participates in Project Tiger and has an impressive population of Bengal tigers. Known for its greenery, the wildlife reserve is flanked by many rivers and seasonal streams, adding to its overall beauty. Bandipur National Park is spread across an approximate area of 874.2 square kilometres, amid the gorgeous surroundings of the majestic Western Ghat Mountains. Enjoy the afternoon safari and then relax at your hotel.

Overnight stay in Bandipur.
Day 16 : Bandipur

Today you can enjoy the morning and afternoon safaris at the park. Apart from tigers, the park is home to Asiatic elephants and many other wildlife species like dhole, deer, hornbill, gaur, sloth bear, wild boar, python and crocodiles. Many of them are counted as threatened species. In addition, the park is well - known for the presence of sandalwood trees. Many other types of trees like teak, Indian laurel and clumping bamboo can be found here.

Overnight stay in Bandipur.
Day 17 : Bandipur – drive to Ooty- Mountain Train ride- Coonoor – drive to Coimbatore

After breakfast drive to the historic Hill Station town of Ooty and take the famous Nilgiris mountain railway to Coonoor- it is a scenic journey and the mountain train passes through lush green valleys, tea gardens, and forests of the Nilgiri hills. It travels at a leisurely pace and you can enjoy the beautiful views along the way. On arrival in Coonoor, you will be met and you can do a short tour of Coonoor which is another hill station near Ooty. The major attraction of Coonoor is Sims Park, which is spread across an area of 12 hectares, partially developed in Japanese style, more than 1000 species of plants are cultivated and maintained here. Then spend some time at the Tea gardens and later drive to Coimbatore, on arrival check in at your hotel and relax.

Overnight stay in Coimbatore.
Day 18 : Coimbatore – Departure

Today morning you will be transferred to Coimbatore airport to take your domestic/international flight.

Tour Ends

FAQ

Ranthambore is known for its rich biodiversity. Visitors have the chance to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, antelopes, and a variety of bird species.

Dawn is considered the best time to visit the Taj Mahal due to the soft light and fewer crowds, allowing for a serene and memorable experience.

At Kabini River Lodge, you can enjoy jeep safaris at dusk and dawn, offering opportunities to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat along the Kabini River.

Nagarhole is renowned for its diverse ecosystem and picturesque landscapes. It's home to iconic Indian wildlife such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and a wide array of bird species.

In Mudamalai, you can stay in a tree house located within a private sanctuary, offering a unique and immersive wildlife experience. Accommodations typically include basic amenities with a focus on nature and wildlife encounters.

The Nilgiri mountain railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a scenic journey from Ooty to Coonoor. It passes through lush forests and tea plantations, providing breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills.

From Coimbatore, you can catch a flight to your preferred international departure point. Coimbatore Airport (CJB) offers domestic and international flights, connecting you to major cities in India and beyond.

Yes, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is renowned for its bird diversity. Visitors can spot exotic species such as painted storks, spoonbills, and kingfishers during boat rides along the river.

In Mysore, you can explore cultural landmarks such as the Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, and vibrant markets known for silk sarees and sandalwood products. The city offers a blend of history, architecture, and local traditions.

It's recommended to wear comfortable clothing in neutral colors suitable for outdoor activities. Binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera with zoom lens are useful for wildlife viewing and photography.