This unique itinerary explores the Bhabar and Terai jungles of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh; regions that boast remarkable biodiversity.
The Bhabar supports species adapted to drier conditions, such as leopards, wild boars, and various reptiles. The Terai, with its lush vegetation and wetlands, provides a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and Asian elephants. Additionally, it is a paradise for birdwatchers, hosting over 500 avian species. These include the endangered Bengal florican, Sarus crane, and various migratory birds.
The rich interplay of diverse habitats supports a vibrant ecosystem, making the Bhabar and Terai jungles crucial for conservation efforts and a testament to the natural wealth of the Himalayan foothills.
Big Cats
A primary objective of this journey is to find big cats. We plan to explore Rajaji Tiger Reserve for Leopards and Elephants, Corbett Tiger Reserve in search of Tigers, Elephants, Ghural, Serow and the wonderful avian diversity of the park. We’ll also spend time in the Terai jungles of Dudhwa, Kishanpur, and Pilibhit in search of Tigers, Elephants, Rhinos, Fishing Cat along with Softground Barasingha, Hog Deer, Crocodiles, Gharials and the amazing birdlife.
We are able to offer this itinerary at various times during the year but, if tiger sightings are a priority, we recommend travelling in March/April.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 1:
On arrival in Delhi our team will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, a tour of Delhi can be arranged for this afternoon with an English speaking guide.
Overnight at the Roseate House, Aerocity.
Day 2:
Early this morning we make our way to Aalia Jungle Retreat in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. Afternoon game drive into Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
The reserve boasts a rich variety of forest types, including Sal forests, riverine forests, broadleaved mixed forests, and scrubland. Rajaji Tiger Reserve is home to the majestic Bengal tiger, which is the apex predator in this ecosystem. Other significant fauna include Asian elephants, leopards, Himalayan black bears, sloth bears, and deer species such as chital and sambar. Additionally, the reserve hosts various reptiles and over 300 species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
Overnight be at the Aalia Jungle Retreat.
Day 3:
Two more jeep safaris inside the park have been planned for today.
Overnight at the Aalia Jungle Retreat.
Day 4:
This morning after an early breakfast we check-out and make our way to the landscapes of Corbett.
We should reach Ramnagar (closest town to Corbett Tiger Reserve) around lunchtime and break the journey here. After lunch we continue to Vanghat Lodge. This simple yet sustainable lodge shall be your home for 2-nights. Once settled into your room you’ll have time to explore along the banks of the Ramganga River for birds and wildlife.
It is not uncommon to hear calls of leopards and tigers that begin their patrol around this time of the day.
Overnight will be at the Vanghat Lodge.
Days 5 & 6:
On these two days we have planned longer hikes through the jungle in search of birdlife and wildlife.
Overnight will be at the Vanghat Lodge.
Day 7:
Depart Vanghat and travel to Infinity Resorts Corbett beside the Kosi river.
Once settled, this afternoon we’ll take our first private jeep safari into Corbett Tiger Reserve accompanied by a lodge naturalist. Our focus on these drives is now more on the larger mammals such as tigers, leopards & elephants.
Overnight will be at Infinity Resorts Corbett.
Day 8:
We have planned morning and afternoon safaris in Corbett Tiger Reserve.
Overnight will be at Infinity Resorts Corbett.
Day 9:
Transfer by road to Camp Tiger Lily, located at the fringe of Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, one of Terai’s most exceptional wilderness areas.
Overnight will be at the Camp Tiger Lily.
Days 10, 11 & 12:
Over these three days we will be exploring Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. The tiger reserve is made up of three wildlife sanctuaries – Kishanpur, Dudhwa and Katarniaghat. We plan to do morning and afternoon drives in Dudhwa and Kishanpur largely focusing on the tiger, elephant, rhino and the fishing cat.
We also plan to visit Katarniaghat. Since this is about 2.5hrs from the lodge it is planned as a full day excursion. We recommend an early breakfast around 06:30am and depart for Katarniaghat by 07:15am.
On arrival we first take a boat safari on Girwa River which divides India and Nepal. The boat safari is a chance to see the endemic gharial crocodile, smooth coat otters, Indian skimmers, osprey, and the other birdlife on the river. Afternoon jeep safari into Katarniaghat in search of Leopards and Tigers.
Overnight will be at the Camp Tiger Lily.
Days 13 & 14:
The wildlife portion of our trip ends today and after breakfast we head for Lucknow.
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, India, is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences. The city’s historical significance is reflected in its magnificent monuments, such as the Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and the British Residency.
A one and half days of sightseeing has been planned in Lucknow over these two days with an English-speaking city expert.
Overnight will be at Novotel, Lucknow.
Day 15:
Morning is at leisure. In the afternoon transfer to Lucknow airport to catch your flight to Delhi. On arrival in Delhi our team shall receive you at the airport and shall transfer you to one of the Aerocity hotels where you can relax and dine in the coffee shop / restaurant before heading to the international terminal to catch your flight back home.
PRICE
- Per person sharing in double or twin room: GB£2,830* / €3,360* / US$3,640*
- Single room supplement: GB£1,225 / €1,455 / US$1,575
* These prices are based on 4 people travelling together.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
- Accommodation in India for Fourteen (14) nights.
- Meal plans in Delhi and Lucknow include only Breakfast whereas all meals are included in the wildlife lodges.
- Half day sightseeing of Delhi with an English-speaking city expert.
- Three (3) private jeep safaris in Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
- Two and half days of exploration on foot around the Ramganga Valley when at Vanghat Lodge.
- Three (3) private jeep safaris in Corbett Tiger Reserve.
- One (1) private jeep safari in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.
- Two (2) private jeep safari in Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary.Two (2) private jeep safari in Dudhwa Wildlife sanctuary with one special permit for the Rhino Conservation area.
- One (1) full day excursion to Katarniaghat as described in the itinerary.
- One and half days of sightseeing in Lucknow with an English-speaking city expert.
- All transfers will be in an AC Toyota Innova if only 2 guests are travelling, else we shall use an AC Tempo Traveller.
- Domestic flight in economy on Lucknow – Delhi sector.
- All currently applicable taxes
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- Any international flights or visas.
- Any gratuities.
- Any expense of personal nature including alcoholic beverages as well as soft drinks.
- Any camera fee.
- Any unusual escalation in taxes, permit costs, fuel costs or major fluctuations in foreign exchange.