India’s Best Wildlife & the Taj Mahal
India’s Best Wildlife & the Taj Mahal
14 Days
Tour operator:
Tour code:
98503
From:
$4737
$4264
including Flights from the UK
Operator discount: -$473
NB: Prices correct on 02-Jun-2024 but subject to change.
Tour Overview
Aboard open-air Jeeps embark on safaris through the rural heart of ‘Kipling Country’, three tiger-rich national parks, before observing the country’s most iconic monument in Agra.
Start with a guided tour in vibrant Mumbai, where you'll seek out the city’s significant landmarks, including Mani Bhavan, the Prince of Wales Museum, and the fascinating Dhobi Ghat. Afterwards, fly to Nagpur, known as the ‘Tiger Capital of India’ and engage in wildlife talks, guided nature walks and safaris in Pench National Park. Delve even deeper into the region's culture as you visit a nearby tribal village and observe its ancient traditions.
Continue to the enchanting landscapes of Kanha National Park, and alongside expert naturalists, set off on more quests in pursuit of the elusive Bengal tigers. Your journey will then lead you to Bandhavgarh for more days filled with birdwatching, tracking exotic creatures, and traversing the grasslands and waterholes by open-air Jeep and on foot.
The adventure takes a cultural turn as you explore the UNESCO-listed Khajuraho temple complex to see the intricately carved sculptures of tales of love and devotion. In Orchha, take a break for lunch while observing the town's architectural splendours. Then, wander through the 16th-century Agra Fort, a historical marvel with its sandstone ramparts and maze of structures. Lastly, see the Taj Mahal, an iconic monument of eternal love and architectural mastery, in the warm glow of the sunset, or join an optional excursion to witness this mausoleum as the sun rises.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day One – Fly To Mumbai
Board your overnight flight for the journey to India.
Day Two – Arrive In Mumbai
Arrive in Mumbai, India’s largest city and be welcomed by your friendly local tour manager.
The coach will take you to the first hotel, which is located near Nariman Point and looks out over the Arabian Sea.
You can spend the rest of the day unwinding, perhaps having a drink in the lounge, with views of Marine Drive, or taking a dip in the swimming pool.
Dinner will be enjoyed alongside your fellow travellers at the hotel.
Day Three – Tour Of Mumbai
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Mumbai, visiting several of the city’s historical and cultural landmarks. Mani Bhavan, a museum, and historical building dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, will be the first stop. Serving as Gandhi’s headquarters for around 17 years, this mansion houses a library, a photo gallery, and a room where Gandhi stayed. You can view his spinning wheel and bed on the floor, as well as the terrace where he was arrested in 1932.
The Prince of Wales Museum is next, and in this ornate building with detailed lattice work, around 50,000 artefacts documenting the history of India can be found. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formally known as the Victoria Terminus Station, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another striking structure, with its Victorian Gothic Revival architecture built over 10 years.
As you move on, you'll experience the unique spectacle of Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry where skilled dhobis (laundry workers) wash, dry, and press clothes in a traditional manner. Originally constructed in 1890, the site is made up of more than 700 washing stations and from the sides, you can observe the massive scale of this age-old practice. The day’s exploration ends at the Gateway of India, a grand arch monument located on the waterfront of the city. It was constructed to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911 and served as the exit point for the last British troops leaving India.
The evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace before joining the travellers for dinner.
Day Four – Flight To Nagpur, A ‘Tiger Talk’ With A Naturalist And An Evening Nature Walk
Following breakfast, check out of the hotel and travel to the airport for your flight to Nagpur, also called the ‘Tiger Capital of India’ as it connects many tiger reserves in the country to the world. It’s also known as the ‘Orange City’ due to its citrus fruit production. You’ll then leave the bustling city and head for the tranquil wilderness of Pench National Park, the Indian jungle that inspired the setting of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
Upon arrival at the resort set within the jungle, you’ll check in and get settled, perhaps enjoying a drink on your private veranda. In the evening, a local naturalist will give a fascinating ‘tiger talk’. This briefing will introduce you to the ecosystem of the park, shedding light on the diverse flora and fauna and its conservation efforts
Dinner will then be served before you fall asleep to the sounds of the surrounding nocturnal animals.
Day Five – Morning And Afternoon Safaris In Pench National Park
Wake early this morning and board a Jeep for a safari in the wilderness of Pench National Park, an opportunity to explore the untamed landscapes alongside your knowledgeable naturalist guide.
As the sun rises over the treetops, you’ll set off to witness the park’s incredible biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for the Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, wild dogs, and hyenas that call Pench home. Your naturalist will share their expertise, providing insights into the behaviour, habitats, and unique characteristics of the animals you encounter.
Breakfast will then be served back at the lodge followed by some time to relax, perhaps by the swimming pool before lunch.
In the afternoon, you’ll gear up for a safari, another chance to spot more animals on your wish-list and survey more of the prey-rich woodlands and 300 bird species that live around the Pench River.
This evening, dinner will be enjoyed again at the camp’s restaurant.
Day Six – Afternoon Safari In Kanha National Park, Visit To A Tribal Village And Evening Walk With Naturalists
Have breakfast, check out of the camp and travel to a different nature reserve, Kanha National Park, which also has ties to The Jungle Book and is known for its significant population of Bengal tigers.
You’ll arrive at the lodge, set on the edge of the park, settle in, and enjoy some lunch.
In the afternoon, enjoy your first safari with a naturalist. Kanha National Park's diverse landscapes offer different opportunities for wildlife sightings, ensuring that no two safaris are the same.
As evening approaches, you’ll take a leisurely walk around the resort's surroundings, accompanied by the expertise of several naturalists. Their knowledge of the local flora and fauna will enhance your nature-inspired exploration.
When the day comes to a close, you’ll join your fellow travellers for dinner.
Day Seven – Afternoon Safari In Kanha National Park
Begin today with an early morning safari, heading off to Kanha National Park in the company of your experienced naturalist in a Jeep.
While the sun illuminates the dense forests and sprawling grassland, you can look out for the park’s inhabitants, including tigers, leopards, herds of deer, jackals, sloth bears, and an array of colourful bird species. Afterwards, you’ll return to the lodge for a well-deserved breakfast.
The day will then unfold with lunch and some time to unwind by the swimming pool or at the wellness centre before you embark on a cultural excursion as you visit a nearby tribal village. Here, the group can interact with the locals and observe their way of life, traditions, and customs.
As the sun sets on another day of adventuring, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner.
Day Eight – Drive To Bandhavgarh And Afternoon At Leisure With Optional Activities
Breakfast will be early again as you’ll be packing up and travelling to Bandhavgarh National Park. During this journey, you’ll witness the transition from Kanha's lush forests to the rugged terrain that characterises Bandhavgarh. This biodiverse park and former royal hunting ground is known for having the highest density of Bengal tigers in India.
You’ll check into a resort near the park, which blends into the natural backdrop, and after lunch, have the opportunity to partake in an assortment of in-house activities. Choose from bird-watching and guided nature walks or watch a ‘tiger talk’ led by knowledgeable experts and learn about how white tigers were first discovered in the park in 1951.
Alternatively, you might choose to simply relax by the swimming pool, or on your private sundeck bounded by jungle scenery. Dinner will also be served at the lodge’s open-air multi-cuisine restaurant.
Day Nine – Morning And Afternoon Safaris In Bandhavgarh National Park
Today will unfold with an early morning safari in Bandhavgarh National Park, guided by an expert naturalist.
As dawn breaks, you’ll venture into the jungle in search of the reserve’s most elusive residents while the naturalist shares their expertise. Traverse rocky hills, bamboo forests, expansive grasslands and verdant waterholes, spotting mammals, like four-horned antelope and wild boar, and the varied assortment of birdlife, such as hornbills and peacocks.
Back at the resort, you’ll have breakfast and some time to recharge before lunch and a second-afternoon safari to witness more of its inhabitants.
In the evening, join everyone at the lodge’s restaurant and share your wildlife sightings from the day over dinner.
Day 10 – Drive To Khajuraho And Visit To Khajuraho Temple Complex
Once you’ve had breakfast, you’ll check out of the lodge and take a scenic drive to Khajuraho, a historic town famed for its three complexes of UNESCO-listed temples.
Upon arriving at the refined hotel, there’ll be some time to refresh before heading out on an excursion to explore these exquisite structures, adorned with intricate and alluring sculptures.
Constructed between 950AD and 1050AD and representing two separate religions, this ancient site encompasses around 22 of the original 85 structures. The temples are split into three main groups, with the western group being the most well-known and including the Temple of Kandariya, one of the greatest masterpieces of Indian art, as well as the granite Chaunsat Yogini Temple.
As you’re led around, the guide will describe how the complex was forgotten and overgrown by the jungle until a British engineer discovered the existence of them in 1838. You’ll also learn about the history, mythology, and artistry that define these remarkable buildings.
The group will then return to the hotel for dinner in the evening.
Day 11 – Drive To Jhansi, Lunch In Orchha And Train To Agra
Enjoy breakfast, check out and board the coach for a journey to the ancient city of Jhansi in the region of Bundelkhand. On the way, you’ll stop for lunch in Orchha, a town steeped in history and known for its impressive forts, elegant palaces, and beautiful architecture. If time permits, you can experience an orientation tour, learning about its royal past and soaking up the old-world charm.
Following the visit to Orchha, continue to Jhansi, where you'll board a train bound for Agra, on the banks of the Yamuna River. This journey along the tracks is the perfect way to take in the Indian countryside.
From the train station in Agra, you’ll be driven to the hotel, a comfortable retreat amid the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Dinner will be served at the hotel, perhaps followed by a drink at the bar.
Day 12 – Visit To Agra Fort, Afternoon At Leisure And Sunset Visit To The Taj Mahal
Have breakfast and then venture on an excursion to the royal pavilions, palaces, and courtyards of the majestic, red sandstone Agra Fort. From this 16th-century fortress set on the Yamuna River, you’ll experience your first view of the incomparable Taj Mahal and its gardens.
Explore the intricate maze of structures within the fort as you learn about how it served as the residence of Mughal emperors for over three centuries. This UNESCO-World Heritage Site was constructed in the 16th century by Emperor Akbar and later expanded by his successors.
The afternoon will then be free to return to the hotel and relax or embark on some self-exploration around Agra, perhaps shopping in the markets or seeking out more of the sights.
When dusk comes around, the group will continue to the Taj itself, and you’ll get to see the famed monument of eternal love up close, glistening, and golden as the sun sets. This ivory-white marble mausoleum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, encircled by expansive Mughal gardens, is one of the greatest architectural achievements and a wish-list spectacle. Completed in 1648 and built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, it’s renowned for its Mughal design and elements, including a central dome, minarets, and reflecting pool.
Later in the evening, you’ll return to the hotel for your final dinner.
Day 13 – Morning At Leisure, Optional Sunrise Visit To The Taj Mahal, Drive To Delhi And Flight Back To The Uk
Savour your final breakfast and a morning at leisure, perhaps taking advantage of the hotel’s range of amenities. You also have the option to return to the Taj Mahal at dawn, a time of day when its façade transforms into a pinkish shade while the sun rises. The contrasting shadows and light cast across the monument and the enclosing grounds is an incredible sight.
Back at the hotel, you’ll check out and board the coach for Delhi. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport with a stop at the Lotus Temple, a Bahá'í House of Worship. Renowned for its unique lotus flower-inspired design, this temple, ringed by beautiful gardens, is open to people of all faiths, religions, and backgrounds.
A farewell dinner will be enjoyed at a local restaurant before the flight.
Day 14 – Arrive Back In The Uk
You’ll touchdown in the UK today after your holiday.
What's Included
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Five nights’ half board and six nights’ full board accommodation in a series of hotels, lodges, and camps in Mumbai (2 nights), Pench (2), Kanha (2), Bandhavgarh (2), Khajuraho (1) and Agra (2), plus two nights on the aircraft
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11 breakfasts, six lunches, and 12 dinners
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Tour of Mumbai
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Talk with a naturalist in Pench National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park
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Morning and afternoon safaris in Pench National Park, Kanha National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park
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Visit to a tribal village and an evening walk with naturalists in Kanha National Park
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Visit to the Khajuraho?temple complex
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Visit to Agra Fort
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Sunset visit to the Taj Mahal
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Train journey to Agra
Taj Mahal restoration work
The white marble of the Taj Mahal is being gradually cleaned in a process that will take up to four years. Parts of the monument's surface may be covered during this process though your visit and access to the main dome is not likely to be restricted.
Passports and visas
British citizens require machine-readable passports when travelling overseas. Your passport must contain two blank pages and be valid for 180 days after your return date from India. A visa is also required for entry to India. Full details of how and when to apply will be sent out about eight weeks before departure. Currently, a single entry tourist visa for BRITISH CITIZENS is £143 plus any additional fees should you choose to use the services of a visa handling agent.
British CITIZENS are not currently eligible to enter India using the e-Tourist Visa system.
Some other European nationals satisfying certain conditions may use the online e-Tourist Visa application process at a cost of $10 (US) per person for entry to India for arrivals in the months of April, May and June or $25 (US) per person for arrivals in other months. Other passport holders must apply for a full visa.
Note that all travellers of Pakistani descent, regardless of citizenship, will generally be subject to more detailed processing by the Indian authorities, which can take up to four months from application.
Foreign Office Travel Advice
Visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice to find out the latest Foreign And Commonwealth Office travel advice for your holiday destination, as well as information about passports and visas.
On your flight
Flights leave in the evening (or very early hours of the morning) and land at your destination in the morning. On-board meals will usually include dinner and breakfast.
Luggage allowance
You are permitted to take one suitcase per person on the aircraft, which should not exceed 23kg.
Special requirements
If you have notified us of any special requirements, please check that they have been noted and acknowledged. This is especially important with any dietary needs you may have.
Travel vaccinations
Requirements and advice can vary over time, and from person to person, so please contact your GP about eight weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or any other preventive measures.
Disabled access
The majority of our tours involve a certain amount of walking, including a short walk from the coach stop to the town, attraction or venue you're visiting. If you are bringing a wheelchair, please let us know at the time of booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made. In many developing countries access is sometimes not as easy as at home. Should you have walking difficulties, getting around monuments and attractions may be harder and, in some cases, impossible. Should you have any concerns whatsoever please do contact us prior to travel.
Itinerary changes
Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may have to change the order of the excursions on your holiday. The final day-by-day itinerary will be confirmed on your Final Travel Documents, which you will receive approximately three weeks prior to your departure.
Changes to your hotels
Should circumstances require, we reserve the right to accommodate you in alternative hotels, of a similar standard, nearby. Full details of your hotels will be sent with your Final Travel Documents.
Road conditions
In developing countries road networks are continually being improved and expanded, which can mean that, from time to time, roadworks and rough road surfaces can extend journey times. Many roads do not have separate pavements or safety barriers, and great care should be taken when crossing or walking alongside roads.
Taj Mahal restoration work
The white marble of the Taj Mahal is being gradually cleaned in a process that will take up to four years. Parts of the monument's surface may be covered during this process though your visit and access to the main dome is not likely to be restricted.
Passports and visas
British citizens require machine-readable passports when travelling overseas. Your passport must contain two blank pages and be valid for 180 days after your return date from India. A visa is also required for entry to India. Full details of how and when to apply will be sent out about eight weeks before departure. Currently, a single entry tourist visa for BRITISH CITIZENS is £143 plus any additional fees should you choose to use the services of a visa handling agent.
British CITIZENS are not currently eligible to enter India using the e-Tourist Visa system.
Some other European nationals satisfying certain conditions may use the online e-Tourist Visa application process at a cost of $10 (US) per person for entry to India for arrivals in the months of April, May and June or $25 (US) per person for arrivals in other months. Other passport holders must apply for a full visa.
Note that all travellers of Pakistani descent, regardless of citizenship, will generally be subject to more detailed processing by the Indian authorities, which can take up to four months from application.
Foreign Office Travel Advice
Visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice to find out the latest Foreign And Commonwealth Office travel advice for your holiday destination, as well as information about passports and visas.
On your flight
Flights leave in the evening (or very early hours of the morning) and land at your destination in the morning. On-board meals will usually include dinner and breakfast.
Luggage allowance
You are permitted to take one suitcase per person on the aircraft, which should not exceed 23kg.
Special requirements
If you have notified us of any special requirements, please check that they have been noted and acknowledged. This is especially important with any dietary needs you may have.
Travel vaccinations
Requirements and advice can vary over time, and from person to person, so please contact your GP about eight weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or any other preventive measures.
Disabled access
The majority of our tours involve a certain amount of walking, including a short walk from the coach stop to the town, attraction or venue you're visiting. If you are bringing a wheelchair, please let us know at the time of booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made. In many developing countries access is sometimes not as easy as at home. Should you have walking difficulties, getting around monuments and attractions may be harder and, in some cases, impossible. Should you have any concerns whatsoever please do contact us prior to travel.
Itinerary changes
Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may have to change the order of the excursions on your holiday. The final day-by-day itinerary will be confirmed on your Final Travel Documents, which you will receive approximately three weeks prior to your departure.
Changes to your hotels
Should circumstances require, we reserve the right to accommodate you in alternative hotels, of a similar standard, nearby. Full details of your hotels will be sent with your Final Travel Documents.
Road conditions
In developing countries road networks are continually being improved and expanded, which can mean that, from time to time, roadworks and rough road surfaces can extend journey times. Many roads do not have separate pavements or safety barriers, and great care should be taken when crossing or walking alongside roads.
Check out our Q&As
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1983
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Vaccination Requirements
Your health and safety are pivotal to our operations, and every customer travelling on a tour with us must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Fully vaccinated means that you have had the full course of an approved vaccine a minimum of 14 days prior to your holiday. We also recommend that you travel with proof that you’ve been fully vaccinated.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Our company’s mission is to enrich lives and improve wellbeing through travel. A big part of that is ‘Travel for Good’. Our ‘Travel for Good’ hub is our first step in a long journey to reduce carbon, offset anything we produce as a company and travel without harming the planet or the people of the destinations we go to.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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Fitness to Travel
We strive to give all our customers full care and attention, but we do need to know at the time of booking if there are any special needs or requirements. It is particularly important that we are advised of any disabilities and also if you intend to bring any specialist equipment such as a wheelchair with you. Please make sure that you make us aware of any requirements.
Reviews of this operator
1 Dates & Availability
Thursday - Wednesday
Jan 30, 2025 - Feb 12, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Nov 13, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Newmarket Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 35% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of newmarket holidays charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 48 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 34 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Vaccination Requirements
Your health and safety are pivotal to our operations, and every customer travelling on a tour with us must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Fully vaccinated means that you have had the full course of an approved vaccine a minimum of 14 days prior to your holiday. You can find the travel restrictions for different countries on www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. We also recommend that you travel with proof that you’ve been fully vaccinated.