Experience living India up close and personal with this thrilling tour of some of the finest reserves and national parks in the sub-continent.  We begin in Nagpur, the heart of India, where we spend some time with resident naturalists, watching out for tigers in particular.  Some sightseeing in Mysore is a must before moving onto our first safari at Nagarhole National Park.  Mysore is the second biggest city in the state of Karnataka, but is undoubtedly its cultural heart and soul. The Wodeyar Maharajas of Mysore ruled from this royal seat for centuries, and their patronage ensured a rich mix of artists, writers and craftsmen flourished, leaving behind much to explore. 

Then we begin our true safari, journeying deep in the lush jungle forests of Nagarhole by either jeep or elephant - your choice.  We scan the BR Hills  and beautiful Kumarakoram for their stunning variety of hundreds of species of birds, and take jeep safaris around Bandipur,  Eravikulam and Periyar wildlife sanctuaries.  Expect to see a huge variety of wildlife, from the majestic tiger to other large mammals such as tiger, leopard, wild elephant, dhole (Indian wild dog), and gaur (Indian bison). Other species to be seen are chital spotted deer, muntjac (barking deer), mouse deer, four-horned antelope, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, mongoose, civet and otter.

Our accommodation is mostly in park lodges and forest rest camps, but our tour takes us trekking in the BR Hills, camping overnight with Mother Nature.  Return home with some fantastic memories of India's wildlife experienced as it should be, wild and free.

ITINERARY

Day 01: Arrive Delhi - Nagpur
We met in Delhi and transfer to Nagpur, to Pench Jungle Camp. We are welcomed and take an evening game drive into the Pench National Park with the resident naturalists. Over night is spent in the luxurious comforts of Pench Jungle Camp.

Day 02: Pench Jungle Camp
Morning and evening game drives into the park for tiger and other wildlife sighting. These times of the day are ideal for spotting most animals, who rest through the heat of the day.

Day 03: Pench Jungle Camp
Again, the day is spent taking morning and evening game drives into the park, in search of a thrilling close encounter or two.

Day 04: Pench - Nagpur
We transfer by road to Nagpur, in time for the flight to Mumbai.  In Mumbai we check into your hotel and after lunch we take a tour of this glamorous city that throbs with a rhythm full of the drama and musical colour of Bollywood. Overnight at the Mumbai hotel.

Day 05: Mumbai - Bangalore
We transfer in the morning to the airport for our flight to Bangalore.  On arrival, we drive to Mysore, 125 kms away.  A sightseeing tour of Mysore takes us to the stunning Brindaban Gardens and Mysore Palace, a fantastic showcase of the rich artistic history of the city. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 06: Bangalore - Nagarhole National Park

Transfer to Nagarhole National Park80 kms from Mysore. The original tropical forests, around which the park has grown, were once the exclusive hunting ground of the Maharajas of Mysore. From here spread out plains and the enchanting 247 square-mile park, with a rich abundance of different species.
Enjoy wildlife viewing on the afternoon jeep safari trip, and spend overnight at the cosy wildlife lodge.

Day 07: Nagarhole National Park
The whole day is spent at the park, with free time to stroll around and enjoy the lush environment. Early morning wildlife viewing and bird watching in the park or a fantastic Coracle ride on the gorgeous Kabini River. Enjoy an evening safari with a difference - sit astride the broad back of an elephant and stroll through the Nagarhole jungle in true Maharaja style.  Overnight is spent at the wildlife lodge.

Day 08: Nagarhole National Park - BR Hills
Drive to B R Hills, six hours drive from Nagarhole. In the afternoon we take an easy-going trek into the hills for wildlife viewing. A modern, comfortable camp is set up for you in the wilderness, and dinner is enjoyed around the warm orange glow of a fire.

Day 09: BR Hills
We go out for morning and evening wildlife viewing and some truly spectacular bird watching. Overnight stay is once again in our tents.

Day 10: BR Hills - Bandipur National Park
It s an early morning departure to Bandipur, four hours drive away, after having breakfast. We arrive for lunch at the resort. In the afternoon a visit inside the wildlife sanctuary is made in jeeps.  Overnight stay at the resort.

Day 11: Bandipur National Park
Morning and evening wildlife viewing and bird watching. Overnight stay in the resort.

Day 12: Bandipur National Park - Ooty
An early morning drive to Ooty, 80-kms from Bandipur National Park. We reach Ooty in the afternoon and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in the resort.

Day 13: Ooty - Munnar - Eravikulam National Park
We drive towards Munnar, and visit the Eravikulam National Park to see the wonderful Nilgiri Thar. Overnight stay in the resort.

Day 14: Eravikulam National Park - Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Morning visit to the park for wildlife and bird watching.  Drive to Periyar in the afternoon, a three hour journey.  Overnight stay in the resort.

Day 15: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Enjoy a morning and evening boat cruise and witness the wild elephants frolicking in the lake, or go bird watching. Overnight stay in the resort.

Day 16: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - Kumarakom
Drive to Kumarakom in the early in the morning, five hours from Periyar.  We arrive at Kumarakom in the afternoon and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in the resort.

Day 17: Kumarakoram Bird Sanctuary
Enjoy the morning backwater cruise and in the evening visit the Kumarakoram Bird Sanctuary. Overnight at the resort.

Day 18: Kumarakoram Bird Sanctuary - Kochi
Onward destination drive to Kochi, three hours away.  Spend a full day sightseeing in Kochi. Transfer to the airport or station for your onward journey.  Tour ends.

TOUR INCLUSIONS
Accommodation on a room-only basis.
All internal flights economy class, as specified in the itinerary.
All transfers by car, including drop-offs and pick-ups at the airport or station.
All sight-seeing and safari tours as specified.

Tour Cost
Per Person on Twin Sharing :  -  USD $ 1955