Wildlife & Culture Of Central India

Arrive hotel & fulfil check-in formalities. Spare little time with our representative to provide brief information about the tour.

Overnight stay at hotel.

In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. In Delhi, you will discover that the city is sprinkled with dazzling gems: captivating ancient monuments, fascinating museums and art galleries, architectural wonders, a vivacious performing-arts scene, fabulous eating places and bustling markets.

After breakfast gather at hotel’s lobby & proceed for guided city tour of Delhi including Jama Masjid followed by Rikshaw ride, Raj Ghat, Humayun’s Tomb – the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drive past through India Gate & Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s House), Akshardham Temple (closed on Mondays) – A Hindu temple which exemplifies traditional Hindu culture and architecture. 7000 artisans were involved in the construction of the temple aided by 3000 volunteers.

At last visit Qutab Minar to experience night view (visit permitted till 9 pm). The Qutub Minar is a towering 73-meter-high tower built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak in 1193. The tower was built to celebrate Muslim dominance in Delhi after the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu ruler. This tower is the highest tower in India, complete with five storeys and projecting balconies. The first three storeys of the Qutub Minar are made of red sandstone and the last two are made of marble and sandstone.

Apart from the tower, the Qutub Minar complex comprises of the Quwwat-us-Islam Mosque (the first mosque to be built in India), a 7-metre-high iron pillar, the tomb of Iltutmish, Ala’i-Darwaza and the Ala’I Minar.

After sightseeing return to your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Bandhavgarh has the highest density of tiger population in natural surroundings in India. There is a saying about the park that goes: “In any other park, you are lucky if you see a tiger. In Bandhavgarh, you are unlucky if you don’t see (at least) one.” With rich bio-diversity, the park is a breeding ground for a large population of leopards, cheetals, sambars, barking deer and stripped hyenas too. The dense forests and grasslands in this park are surrounded by towering cliffs and verdant mountains. Its natural beauty will simply mesmerize you.

On arrival in Bandhavgarh, check-in at hotel. Rest of the day at leisure & Overnight stay at hotel.

The park is home to more than 200 avifaunal species, including heron, painted stork, vultures, white breasted kingfisher, hawk eagle, crested serpent eagle and pairs of sarus cranes. Safari at Bandhavgarh National Park revolves around spotting the tigers and other animals. Sidhbaba temple and Chakradhara meadow are the regions where tigers are spotted the most, while Gopalpur region is ideal for bird-watching. Also, discover the ancient structures, statues and caves inside the park. Overnight stay at hotel.

When visiting the park tourists can take a walk in the deciduous forest while spotting the species including Sloth Bear Pangolin, Indian Wolf, Four-Horned Antelope, Leopard, Rusty Spotted Cat, Gharial, Chousingha, Indian Fox, Porcupine and a lot more. Covering an area of approx 542.67 sq km, the Panna National Park not only lets the tourists come across the rich wildlife and nature but also numerous sites that hold the historical importance. In the sense, visiting the park, tourists get the opportunity to witness the stone paintings that date back to the Neolithic era. Declared as a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1981, the national park proffers the tourists a number of things to do that makes holidays in the Panna National Park a memorable one. Tourists will get the opportunity to indulge in the Jungle Safari that lets one experience the dense ambience and encounter the wildest ranges of mammals, reptiles, birds, flora, fauna and avifauna.

On arrival in Panna, check-in at hotel. Rest of the day at leisure & Overnight stay at hotel.

Tigers are no doubt the major attraction of Panna. Other frequently sighted animals here include the sambhar, cheetal, langoor, wildboar, jackal, chinkara and chausingha. Cascading through the forests of Panna, the Ken River is home to crocodiles and vultures that can be easily spotted here. Between game drives, you can take a boat ride on Ken River and soak in the scenic beauty of the National Park. Overnight stay at hotel.

Khajuraho in itself, is a delightful, quiet lit little town, perfect for spending few days.

Arrive Khajuraho & check-in at hotel. Afternoon drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the ‘Western Group of Temples’. Start your visit with the Kandariya Mahadev temple, the most popular and beautiful massive structure here. It is a magni ficent piece of artistic sculptural work decorated with over 870 statues and carvings. Stroll through other temples, including the Chausath Yogini Temple. Unlike other Chausath Yogini temples elsewhere, this one is rectangular in shape and not rounded. The temple dates back to the late 9th century and is said to be Khajuraho’s oldest surviving temple. This evening, you also have the option to attend a captivating Sound and Light show. Set out at 1800 hours and drive to the Western group of temples, where show is played out.

Then return to hotel & Overnight stay at hotel.

The place justifies its name as Orchha literally means “hidden place”. The beautiful monuments tell the sagas of battles between the kings and emperors.

Arrive Orchha & check-in at hotel.

Afternoon visit Orchha Fort, a marvellous example of a medieval fort palace. Within the turreted walls are gardens, gateways, pavilions and temples, near the confluence of the Betwa and Jamni river. The Raj Mahal with its Hall of Private Audience exemplifies Bundela Rajput architecture. Despite the neglected appearance, there are some beautiful murals on the ceilings and walls of both religious and secular themes. The Jehangir Mahal was built in the 17th century and synthesizes both Hindu and Muslim styles. Around the central square courtyard are the three-storied royal apartments decorated with domes, arches and hanging balconies. The decorative turquoise blue tiles, and latticed screens give this palace a delicate and airy feel.

Lastly visit Chaturbhuj Temple and return to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Jhansi was a stronghold of the ancient Chandela kings. The place used to be known as Balwant Nagar in those times. Jhansi lost its importance in the 11^th century, only to rise to prominence again in the 17^th century under Raja Bir Singh Deo of Orchha. In 1613, Raja Bir Singh Deo constructed the Jhansi Fort atop a rocky hill. The original walled city grew up around the Jhansi Fort.

In Jhansi visit Jhansi Fort and Rani Mahal.

Jhansi Fort: Perched atop the Bangira Hill, the Jhansi Fort offers a mesmerising view of the city of Jhansi that spreads around it. Its architecture displays the classic North Indian style of fort construction, which differs markedly from its southern counterpart. The fort houses temples dedicated to the Hindu deities, Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. In 17^th century, this fort was built by King Bir Singh Judeo of Orchha on top of a hill as an army stronghold. The fort has been a witness to the fiery battle led by Rani Laxmi Bai. The Karak Bijli and Bhawani Shankar cannon of the queen are also kept inside the fort. There is also a museum which has a collection of sculpture and provides an insight into the history of Bundelkhand.

Rani Mahal: The Queen’s Palace or Rani Mahal was constructed by Raghunath II Newalkar. This erstwhile home of the Rani of Jhansi has now been converted into a museum, which displays a collection of archaeological remains of the period between 9th and 12th centuries AD. Visit the beautiful palace and the magnificent Durbar Hall of the palace that have still retained the grandeur of the yesteryears.

Later-on again carry on with your journey while waiting eagerly for your next stop at Gwalior and to explore Gwalior Fort there. Located at a distance of around 130 Kms from Jhansi, take a stop to visit Gwalior Fort, an architectural marvel of the 8th century, situated on top of a hill, finds its place among the best fortresses of India. It is also considered to be one of the most impenetrable forts in the country. Known for its great architecture and rich past, Gwalior Fort is a must-visit attraction when visiting Central India. The defensive structure of the fort comprises two main palaces, temples and water tanks. Amongst it, the most acknowledged is the Teli-Ka-Mandir and Man Singh Palace. The former was built in the Dravidian style shrine and its generously sculpted exteriors are highly appreciated. Then there is the Man Singh Palace, built by king Man Singh in the 15th century. The reputed Palace has an amazing design. With blue ceramic tiles at the front façade and an impressive structure the Man Singh Palace reflects the true colours of the Tomar dynasty. To complement the Man Singh Palace, the Gwalior Fort complex also houses the Gujari Mahal. This was built by Raja Man Singh for his beloved queen Mrignayani.

Afterwards continue your journey to proceed for Agra. By evening, arrive Agra & check-in at hotel.

Overnight stay at hotel.

After visiting Taj Mahal, return to hotel for refreshment & breakfast. And then check out from Agra hotel and visit Agra Fort, large 16th-century fortress of red sandstone located on the Yamuna River in the historic city of Agra. The fort complex was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.

After sightseeing continue your journey to proceed for Ranthambore National Park.

Ranthambore national park is a sheer delight for nature lovers. This flora and fauna rich national park is placed at the uniting sight of Aravalli hills and Vindhya hill range. The grass meadows, water filled lakes and freely flowing rivers, all together make a perfect atmosphere needed for the flourishing of unique wildlife in this national park.

Arrive Ranthambore & check-in at hotel.

This evening, you will be taken to visit Ranthambore Fort. A royal fort’s remains in the form of broken cenotaphs and half broken walls, built during 994 AD provide wild animals some shade during heat of the day.

Overnight stay at hotel.

There is more possibility to sight the royal Bengal tiger in its most natural ambience. It is great experience watching crocodiles, hyena, cats and peacocks. You will be exploring exclusive game drives for a period of more than three hours.

After morning Game Drive, return to hotel to have refreshments & breakfast. In afternoon, check out from hotel & proceed for afternoon Game Drive at the National Park.

Evening at leisure to relax in the natural environment & Overnight stay at hotel.

Jaipur is famously called the “Pink City” of India as the city was painted pink to commemorate the visit of Prince of Wales in 1876. Many of its avenues remained painted in pink till long, giving the city a distinctive appearance.

Arrive Jaipur & check-in at hotel.

In evening visit Chokhi Dhani – An Ethnic Village Resort. The place is divided into 2 sections – Chokhi Dhani Resort & Chokhi Dhani Village where the former provides accommodation facilities to the tourists whereas the latter is adorned with the replica of Indian village life and has opened its doors to non-residential tourists to experience the same.

The Chaupad and Sangri traditional sit-down style restaurant have become a ‘must have experience’ among locals and visitors across the globe. Have dinner at this unique dining place in unique style.

Return to hotel & Overnight stay at hotel.

Former residence of Rajput Maharajas, the fort is notable for its grand architecture showcasing Hindu style of art.

Then visit Jantar Mantar – largest of the five astronomical observatories in India and features world’s largest sundial.

Later, explore the City Palace complex that is comprised of two palaces, Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal, a museum, a vast array of courtyards, gardens and buildings. The palace is a blend of the Shilpa Shastra of Indian architecture with Rajput, Mughal and European styles.

Drive past through Jal Mahal where you can take a halt for selfie session as well as here you will get a chance to get photographed in Rajasthani attire & Hawa Mahal – the palace of winds offered complete view of the outside world to the royal ladies without exposing them. In evening, explore the local market and shop for some amazing stuff such as traditional clothes, jewellery, handicraft etc.

Return to hotel & Overnight stay at hotel.