18 Days - North India Wildlife Tour With Golden Triangle

Welcome to India! On arrival in Delhi, you’ll be met by our local representative at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Delhi, the nation’s capital, is a city of contrasts where centuries of history sit alongside the energy of a modern metropolis. The city is broadly divided into two parts: Old Delhi, with its narrow lanes, busy markets and historic landmarks such as Jama Masjid and the Red Fort; and New Delhi, designed by the British in the early 20th century, with its tree-lined avenues, government buildings and landmarks like India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Depending on your arrival time, you may like to rest and recover from your flight or take a short orientation walk near your hotel. For those arriving earlier in the day, optional activities or sightseeing can be arranged on request. Your hotel offers a comfortable base for your first night in India, allowing you to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead.

Explore Delhi today with a guided sightseeing tour that takes in both the historic character of Old Delhi and the grand boulevards of New Delhi. The day’s itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your personal interests. A range of curated experiences is available, and the suggestions below can be adjusted or replaced with alternative options to suit your preferences.

Begin in Old Delhi with a visit to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. From there, head into the heart of Shahjahanabad to wander through the vibrant lanes of Chandni Chowk. This old market area is known for its narrow streets filled with shops selling everything from colourful bangles and wedding decorations to traditional perfumes and handmade sweets. You’ll also visit Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest wholesale spice market, where the air is filled with the scent of cardamom, cloves and saffron, and shopfronts are stacked high with dried fruits, nuts and herbs.

In the afternoon, explore New Delhi, developed during the British colonial period. Drive past iconic buildings designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, including India Gate, the Presidential Residence and Parliament House. The tour also includes visits to two of Delhi’s most important World Heritage sites: Qutub Minar, a soaring 12th-century victory tower, and Humayun’s Tomb, an early example of Mughal garden tomb architecture and a forerunner to the Taj Mahal.

This morning, take a domestic flight from Delhi to Nagpur, the nearest major airport to Pench National Park. On arrival in Nagpur, you’ll be met and driven by private vehicle to your wildlife lodge near the park - a journey of approximately two and a half to three hours through rural landscapes and small villages.

Once you arrive at the lodge, take some time to settle in and familiarise yourself with the natural surroundings. Pench is known for its teak forests, open meadows and winding rivers, and the lodge offers a comfortable base from which to explore the park over the coming days. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax - perhaps take a short walk around the lodge grounds, enjoy a drink on the verandah, or simply unwind after your journey. Dinner will be served at the lodge this evening.

Spend today exploring the wildlife and landscapes of Pench National Park with early morning and late afternoon jeep safaris, each offering a chance to observe the park’s animals when they are most active.

Located in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh in Central India, Pench National Park forms part of the Pench Tiger Reserve. The park takes its name from the Pench River, which flows north to south and divides the area into two distinct zones: the western forests of Seoni and the eastern forests of Chhindwara. Originally declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1965, Pench was designated a national park in 1975 and later became a tiger reserve in 1992. Its dry deciduous forests are interspersed with open grasslands and support a wide range of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sambar, spotted deer, and an impressive diversity of birdlife.

Each safari is led by an experienced naturalist who will help you interpret animal behaviour, identify bird species and learn more about the park’s ecosystem. Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, but Pench offers one of the better chances of spotting a tiger in its natural habitat.

After your afternoon safari, return to the lodge and enjoy the evening by the campfire, sharing stories of the day’s sightings or simply relaxing under the stars. For a memorable experience during your stay in Pench, you might choose to spend a night in a raised machaan - a rustic yet comfortable open-air platform with a four-poster bed, where you can sleep in the fresh air while surrounded by the sounds of the forest.

Start your day with a morning wildlife safari in Pench National Park, heading out in the cool early hours when animal activity is typically at its peak. With your naturalist guide, explore a different part of the park and keep an eye out for more wildlife encounters before returning to your lodge for a hearty breakfast.

After breakfast, depart for Kanha National Park, a scenic drive of approximately five hours through rural villages, fields and stretches of forested terrain in the heart of Central India. Kanha is one of India’s most renowned wildlife reserves, often cited as an inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.

On arrival, check in to your lodge set near the park boundary. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure - you may wish to relax on your verandah, take a walk around the lodge grounds, or simply unwind with a book before dinner. Your time in Kanha begins tomorrow with the first of your safaris in this diverse and well-managed park.

Today you’ll explore Kanha National Park with two scheduled jeep safaris - one in the early morning and another in the late afternoon. These guided drives offer the best chances to observe wildlife, as many species are most active during the cooler parts of the day. Between safaris, there’s time to relax at your lodge, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or simply take in the forested surroundings from the comfort of your verandah.

Kanha is the largest national park in Central India and among the country’s best-managed wildlife reserves. Once the exclusive hunting ground of British viceroys, it later gained fame as the setting for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The park is known for its picturesque landscapes, with stretches of sal and bamboo forest, grassy meadows and deep-cut ravines forming a varied and wildlife-rich environment.

Kanha is home to around 22 species of mammals. Common sightings include chital (spotted deer), barasingha (swamp deer), sambar, wild pig, langur monkeys, jackals and striped palm squirrels. Barasingha, once on the brink of extinction, are now thriving here thanks to focused conservation efforts - Kanha is the only place where these hard-ground swamp deer are found. Other less frequently seen species include the Bengal tiger, leopard, dhole (Indian wild dog), gaur (Indian bison), sloth bear and Indian fox.

Birdlife in the park is equally rich, with over 300 recorded species. Among the birds often seen are the crested serpent eagle, racket-tailed drongo, Indian roller, white-breasted kingfisher, black ibis, and various species of woodpeckers, flycatchers, doves and parakeets. With luck and a keen eye, your guide will help you spot and identify many of these species during your time in the park.

Evenings at the lodge offer a chance to share sightings, browse the small library, or simply unwind with a drink as the forest comes alive with the sounds of night.

Today is another opportunity to explore the rich landscapes and wildlife of Kanha National Park, with two jeep safaris scheduled - one in the early morning and another in the late afternoon. These outings allow you to discover new areas of the park and increase your chances of seeing different species in their natural habitat.

Between safaris, you’ll have time to relax at your lodge, enjoy lunch, or simply take in the peaceful surroundings. For those keen to experience village life in this part of Madhya Pradesh, there’s the option to take a gentle guided walk through a nearby village. It’s a chance to see a different side of the region - passing traditional homes, meeting local residents and gaining insight into rural life.

An optional visit to a local market can also be arranged. Here, you can meet small-scale farmers, learn about the produce grown in the area, and perhaps sample some of the fresh, seasonal fruits on offer. These experiences provide a meaningful connection with the people who live alongside the forest and whose lives are closely tied to the land.

Alternatively, if you prefer a slower pace, you’re welcome to simply unwind at the lodge - perhaps with a good book, a swim if facilities allow, or some birdwatching from your verandah. The balance of wildlife adventure and downtime makes for a rewarding and well-paced stay in Kanha.

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Bandhavgarh National Park, a journey of approximately 5 hours through the heart of India’s countryside. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and enjoy a relaxing lunch before heading out for your first wildlife safari in the park.

Bandhavgarh is the third wildlife experience on your tour of North India, and provides an exciting opportunity to compare the diverse ecosystems of India’s top wildlife reserves. Known for its high tiger density, Bandhavgarh is one of the best places in India to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The park is home to a large breeding population of tigers, and with some luck, you’ll have the chance to spot one during your safaris. Alongside tigers, the park boasts a healthy population of leopards, and you’ll likely see several species of deer, including sambar and spotted deer, as well as wild boar.

Birdwatching enthusiasts will find much to enjoy, with over 289 species of birds residing in the park, including the majestic Sarus Crane (the largest crane species in India), various types of drongos, grey hornbills, Malabar Pied Hornbill, and a variety of kingfishers. Raptors and vultures also inhabit the park, adding to its diversity of wildlife.

The park’s landscape is characterised by a mix of sal and bamboo forests, with deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the dry summer months. The rugged terrain is dotted with natural springs, rocky outcrops and valleys, offering a varied habitat for both flora and fauna. Bandhavgarh’s topography is particularly interesting as it was once part of the ancient supercontinent Gondwanaland, adding a layer of geological history to the park’s appeal.

In the evening, return to your lodge for dinner and relax after an exciting first safari in Bandhavgarh. You’ll have more opportunities to explore the park over the coming days, allowing you to deepen your wildlife experience.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich wildlife of Bandhavgarh today with two scheduled jeep safaris - one in the early morning and another in the late afternoon. Each safari offers a new opportunity to explore different zones of the park, increasing your chances of spotting a wide range of animals and birds. With its varied terrain and high tiger density, Bandhavgarh remains one of India’s most rewarding parks for wildlife viewing.

When you’re not on safari, there are several ways to enjoy your time at the lodge. You might like to relax in the comfort of your private villa, perhaps soaking in the outdoor bath while listening to the sounds of the forest around you. If you’re in the mood for a little indulgence, the lodge’s onsite spa offers a range of treatments and massages, available for direct payment. Alternatively, settle in with a book from the lodge’s well-stocked library, which includes titles on Indian wildlife, local culture and conservation.

For those interested in learning more about the region’s people and traditions, an optional visit can be arranged to a nearby tribal village. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll gain insight into the rhythms of daily life in rural Madhya Pradesh, meet members of the community, and see how traditional practices continue to shape life in and around the forest.

Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of a tiger in the wild, today offers another full day to explore Bandhavgarh National Park, with both a morning and an evening jeep safari included. With each outing, you’ll have the chance to track wildlife through different parts of the park and gain a deeper appreciation of the region’s rich biodiversity. Your experienced naturalist guide will help interpret animal behaviours and point out signs of activity, enhancing your understanding of the park’s ecosystems.

When you’re not out on safari, the day is yours to spend as you wish. Your wildlife lodge provides a peaceful and comfortable setting, making it an ideal place to unwind between drives. You might like to enjoy a quiet moment with a book in the garden, take a dip in the pool if available, or simply sit back on your verandah and listen to the birdlife around you.

There are also other activities to enrich your stay. Birdwatching within the lodge grounds can be surprisingly rewarding, with many species drawn to the natural landscaping. Some lodges offer cooking demonstrations or interactive sessions with the chef, where you can learn about local spices and techniques used in regional cuisine. You may also wish to try your hand at a bit of nature sketching or photography - the ever-changing light and scenery provide an inspiring setting.

If you're interested in conservation, speak with lodge staff about any local projects or initiatives you might be able to learn about or visit. These may include forest restoration efforts, community outreach or wildlife monitoring programs.

Today you’ll depart Bandhavgarh and travel by road to Jabalpur, a drive of approximately four to five hours through rural Madhya Pradesh. Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages and agricultural land, offering a final glimpse of central India’s landscapes and local life.

On arrival in Jabalpur, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll be met at the airport and taken to a nearby hotel for your overnight stay. This brief stop in the capital gives you time to rest and refresh before continuing your journey the following day.

Depending on your arrival time in Delhi, you may wish to enjoy a relaxed dinner at the hotel or take a short stroll in the local area. Your hotel provides a convenient and comfortable base for the night, allowing you to recharge after a full day of travel.

Rise early this morning for your journey by train to Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to Ranthambhore National Park - one of India’s most well-known wildlife reserves. Travelling by train in India offers a unique window into the country’s daily life and rhythms, and this comfortable rail journey allows you to experience a key part of Indian culture while avoiding a long day on the road.

India’s railway network is among the largest and busiest in the world, playing a vital role in the movement of people and goods across the country. For many travellers, taking at least one train journey is an essential part of the Indian experience - a chance to sit back and watch the countryside unfold, pass through small stations, and share space with locals going about their day.

Your train is scheduled to arrive at Sawai Madhopur, from where you’ll be met at the station and transferred by private vehicle to your nearby wildlife lodge or hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, you might like to explore the lodge grounds, enjoy a quiet lunch, or take a short walk in the surrounding area. Your time in Ranthambhore begins tomorrow with your first safari in the park.

Start your day with an early morning jeep safari in Ranthambhore National Park, heading out into the reserve during the cooler hours when wildlife is most active. Accompanied by a trained naturalist, you’ll explore the park’s rugged terrain, keeping watch for tigers and other native species that thrive in this varied habitat of dry deciduous forest, rocky outcrops and grassy clearings.

Return to your lodge for breakfast and enjoy some time at leisure during the warmer part of the day. You may wish to relax by the pool, enjoy lunch in the garden, or simply rest in the comfort of your room. In the late afternoon, head back into the park for a second safari. Each drive offers a different experience and increases your chances of spotting tigers, sloth bears, leopards, marsh crocodiles and a wide variety of birdlife.

Ranthambhore is widely regarded as one of the best places in India to see Bengal tigers in the wild. Once a royal hunting ground, the area suffered severe wildlife loss during the early 20th century due to unregulated trophy hunting. However, since being designated a Project Tiger reserve in the 1970s - a joint initiative between the Indian Government and WWF - tiger numbers here have steadily improved. Today, sightings are relatively frequent, with tigers often seen hunting, resting near waterholes, or tending to their cubs.

Although most travellers avoid the peak heat of the Indian summer, warmer months can actually offer better chances of tiger sightings, as the animals are more likely to visit water sources during the day. Your naturalist guide will provide deeper insight into tiger behaviour and the conservation work being done in the region.

When not on safari, you might like to treat yourself to a massage or wellness treatment at the lodge’s spa (available at direct cost). If you're after something more active, consider joining the in-house naturalist for a guided nature walk through the lodge’s 12-acre grounds, which include patches of grassland, indigenous trees and shaded forest. This is an ideal way to observe smaller wildlife species and birdlife, and to learn more about the local ecology from an expert.

Rise early this morning for a final jeep safari in Ranthambhore National Park. Early mornings are often the most rewarding time for wildlife viewing, as many animals are active before the heat of the day sets in. After your safari, return to the lodge for breakfast and a chance to freshen up before beginning the drive to Jaipur. The journey to Rajasthan’s capital takes around four and a half hours, passing through a changing landscape of dry plains, scattered villages and arid hills.

On arrival in Jaipur, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You might like to relax at the hotel, take a short stroll nearby, or simply unwind after your time on safari.

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known as the ‘Pink City’ thanks to the terracotta-coloured buildings that line the streets of its old walled quarter. This distinctive colour was originally applied in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales, and has since become a defining feature of the city’s identity. Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a skilled administrator, warrior and keen astronomer. The city was one of the first in India to be planned according to grid principles, drawing on both ancient Indian architectural systems and modern planning concepts of the time.

Set against a backdrop of dry hills and scattered forts, Jaipur is part of the desert state of Rajasthan, where royal influence, artisan traditions and historic architecture all continue to shape its character. As a state capital, Jaipur is a dynamic city with a growing population and evolving urban landscape, yet it retains a strong sense of cultural identity linked to its Rajput heritage and centuries-old craft industries. The city is known for its distinctive architecture, traditional textiles, gemstone cutting, and its role as a centre of learning and artistic innovation in North India.

Today you’ll explore Jaipur in the company of a local guide, giving you the chance to uncover the history, architecture and culture that define Rajasthan’s capital. There are several excellent sightseeing options available, and we can tailor your day to suit your interests. Whether you're drawn to Jaipur’s royal heritage, its architectural landmarks, or simply wish to soak up the atmosphere of the old city, your guide will help shape the day to match your preferences.

A visit to Amber Fort is highly recommended. Located just outside the city, this impressive fort complex is perched on a hillside and accessed by a winding road that offers sweeping views of the surrounding hills. Inside, you’ll find a series of courtyards, palaces and pavilions, including the ornate Ganesh Pol (Elephant Gate) and the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), a chamber famously decorated with thousands of tiny reflective surfaces.

In the afternoon, continue your tour within the old city walls. Pause at the striking façade of the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, built so royal women could observe the street life below without being seen. You’ll also visit the City Palace, still home to the former royal family and featuring courtyards, museums and a fine collection of textiles and weapons. Just nearby is Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It contains a number of carefully calibrated instruments built to observe the movements of the sun, moon and stars.

If you’re interested in local crafts, there may also be time to stop by a block-printing workshop, visit a jeweller working with semi-precious stones, or browse a traditional market for textiles and hand-crafted goods. Optional walking tours, food tours or photography-focused outings can also be arranged.

With its mix of grand monuments and lively street scenes, Jaipur offers a vibrant glimpse into the cultural heart of Rajasthan - and a fitting contrast to the quieter pace of the national parks you’ve visited earlier in your journey.

Today is yours to explore Jaipur at your own pace, with a full day at leisure and the convenience of a private vehicle and driver on hand should you wish to venture out. Whether you're keen to delve deeper into the city’s culture, uncover its artisan traditions, or simply enjoy its vibrant streets and cafés, Jaipur offers a range of experiences to suit every interest.

Jaipur is often regarded as one of the best cities in India for shopping. The bustling bazaars within the old city walls are a treasure trove of goods - from hand-block printed textiles and embroidered garments to gemstone jewellery, blue pottery, brassware and leather goods. Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are particularly popular with visitors and locals alike. For those who prefer a quieter browsing experience, there are also several independent boutiques and craft studios tucked away in the city’s newer districts.

Beyond shopping, Jaipur is home to a growing collection of contemporary cafés and restaurants, many of which offer rooftop seating with views over the city. Whether you're after a modern take on Rajasthani cuisine, vegetarian street food or freshly brewed coffee, there are plenty of places to pause and enjoy the city’s culinary scene.

Several other experiences can be arranged to enhance your stay. These include guided market walks through the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, where you can see artisans at work and learn about traditional trades. Cooking classes with local families or chefs offer a hands-on introduction to Rajasthani home-style dishes and spice combinations. For something light-hearted and immersive, a tuk-tuk tour is a fun way to navigate Jaipur’s narrow lanes and soak up its street-level charm.

You might also like to explore some of the city’s lesser-known architectural gems, such as the beautifully restored Stepwells, the quiet gardens of Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh, or the Albert Hall Museum, which houses a collection of decorative arts in a striking Indo-Saracenic building.

Today you’ll travel by road to Agra, a drive of approximately five hours through the plains of northern India. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra is steeped in history and home to some of the most iconic architecture in the country.

In the afternoon, you'll visit Agra Fort with a local guide. Built primarily from red sandstone, this imposing structure stretches over 2.5 kilometres and once served as the centre of Mughal power. Enclosed within its high walls is a royal complex that functioned as a city within a city - home to emperors, courtiers, and attendants, as well as a seat of political and military authority.

Construction of the fort began under Emperor Akbar in 1565, and over the years, successive rulers including Jahangir and Shah Jahan expanded and embellished it. It is estimated that 4,000 workers laboured daily for eight years to complete the initial structure, with additions continuing well into the reign of Shah Jahan.

Though it was built for defence, the fort's interiors reveal a different story - one of artistic finesse and architectural elegance. Within its walls are finely proportioned courtyards, flowering gardens, geometric water channels and graceful pavilions. You'll also visit two striking mosques: the Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque), known for its pristine white marble, and the Nagina Masjid (Jewel Mosque), a more private place of worship for the women of the court.

Among the many palaces and halls within the fort is the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), decorated with intricate mirror work, and the Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower with a marble balcony. It was here that Shah Jahan spent the final years of his life, imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb, gazing out across the Yamuna River towards the Taj Mahal, the monument he built for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Agra Fort offers an essential introduction to the grandeur and complexity of Mughal history, setting the stage for your visit to the Taj Mahal. The rest of the day is at leisure, and you may wish to enjoy the views from your hotel or take a short evening stroll through the surrounding area.

Begin your day with a sunrise visit to the iconic Taj Mahal - one of the most recognisable and celebrated monuments in the world. Seeing the Taj Mahal in the soft morning light is a truly memorable experience, as the marble surface subtly shifts in colour with the rising sun. Early morning also tends to be a quieter time, allowing for a more reflective visit before the larger crowds arrive.

Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and a symbol of enduring love. Completed in 1653 after more than 20 years of construction, the structure is renowned for its perfect symmetry, white marble façade, and intricate inlay work using semi-precious stones. The complex includes landscaped gardens, a reflecting pool, and a mosque, all carefully laid out to complement the central mausoleum.

After your visit, return to your hotel for breakfast and check-out. You’ll then begin the journey back to Delhi by road, a drive of approximately four to five hours. Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll be transferred directly to the international airport for your onward flight.

As your journey through North India comes to a close, you’ll leave with memories of India’s remarkable wildlife, architectural wonders, vibrant cities and cultural depth - a truly varied and rewarding travel experience.