INDIAN WILDLIFE TOUR TIGERS, RHINO’s WITH TEA GARDENS …royalexpeditions.com/download/580/wildlife... · Pench National Park - Pench has been included under the umbrella of Project

Royal Expeditions Pvt. Ltd. | 26 Community Center, East of Kailash, New Delhi-110065, India e | [email protected] w | www.royalexpeditions.com fb | facebook.com/royalexpeditions

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INDIAN WILDLIFE TOUR – TIGERS, RHINO’s

WITH TEA GARDENS AND TAJ MAHAL Tailor made Programme

By ROYAL EXPEDITIONS

Straight out of Rudyard Kipling’s ‘Jungle Book’, Central India’s finest national parks, including Kanha and Pench offer some of the best photo opportunities for wildlife buffs. In Assam, we visit the Kaziranga sanctuary, home to the critically endangered one-horned rhinoceros, in one of the most stunning natural surroundings anywhere in the world. Next you will travel to Dibrugarh and stay in heritage bungalows amidst rolling tea gardens. Fly back to Delhi and drive to Agra, home to the stunning Taj Mahal.

Kanha National Park - The horse shoe shaped Kanha valley has sometimes been called the N’Gorongoro of India. Herds of the Kanha miscellany, the axis deer, the blackbuck, the wild pig and occasionally the gaur (Indian Bison) throng the central parkland. With its flourishing herds and relatively tolerant predators, Kanha offers almost unrivaled scope to a keen photographer.

Pench National Park - Pench has been included under the umbrella of Project Tiger as the 19th Project Tiger Reserve. Located in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh it comprises of of 758 sq. kms out of which a core area of 299-sq-km is the National Park and 464-km the buffer area of Southern Indian tropical moist deciduous forest mixed with tropical dry deciduous teak bearing forests and dry mixed deciduous forest. With the three types of forest a diversity of fauna abound within this natural system. 39 species of mammals, 13 species of reptiles, 3 species of amphibians and over 170 varieties of birds have already been listed.

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Kaziranga National Park - This park is a UNESCO world heritage site. The history of Kaziranga as a protected area can be traced back to 1904, when Mary Victoria Leiter, the wife of the Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, visited the area. After failing to spot a rhinoceros, for which the area was renowned, she persuaded her husband to take urgent measures to protect the dwindling species. Kaziranga's one-horned rhino at over a thousand, the largest concentration in the subcontinent are best seen from the back of an elephant, early in the mornings.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit two Project tiger national parks in central India – Kanha and Pench with less tourism pressure.

• Elephant safari in Kaziranga to get up close to one horned rhino’s • Exclusive vehicles for game drives with English Speaking Naturalist • Fully accompanied by expert naturalist cum tour manager • Long distance transportation in comfortable Vehicles • Stay in certified eco-friendly lodges, with all modern comforts • Visit the tea gardens and tea factory in Dibrugarh • Stunning views of the Taj Mahal • Experience the colonial splendour of life of Tea Planter • Experience of a Tea Tasting session • Enjoy a local dance performance. • Spend a day out on one of the numerous islands of River Brahmaputra, the 2nd longest and

one of the least polluted rivers in the world • No long days of road travel. All road journeys less than 5 hours.

MAP





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QUICK REFERENCE ITINERARY

Days Sectors Day 1 Arrive Delhi Day 2 Delhi / Jabalpur / Kanha Day 3 Kanha Day 4 Kanha Day 5 Kanha / Pench Day 6 Pench Day 7 Pench Day 8 Pench / Nagpur / Kolkata Day 9 Kolkata / Jorhat / Kaziranga Day 10 Kaziranga Day 11 Kaziranga Day 12 Kaziranga / Dibrugarh Day 13 Dibrugarh Day 14 Dibrugarh / Delhi Day 15 Delhi / Agra Day 16 Agra / Delhi / Departure

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 Arrive Delhi

On arrival at the Indira Gandhi International airport, proceed for Immigration clearance after disembarking. Thereafter collect baggage from the baggage carousel and walk to the Arrivals Lounge after clearing customs. You will be greeted by our company representative, with a placard bearing your name on it. He will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to the hotel (close to the airport) (Check in time at hotel will be is 1400 hrs and check out at 12 noon) Overnight at Trident Gurgaon –Superior Garden View Room Day 2 Delhi / Jabalpur / Kanha

Morning transfer to the airport to board flight for Jabalpur Delhi / Jabalpur - Spice Jet – SG 2451 – 09:55 hrs / 11:30 hrs (Reporting time for domestic flight is at least 1 hour prior to flight departure time) Meeting and assistance on arrival at Jabalpur airport and drive to Kanha National Park (135 kms, 3.5 – 4 hrs) On arrival at Kanha, check into your lodge If time permits enjoy a nature walk in the buffer zone or visit the local village close to the lodge Overnight at Kanha Earth lodge – Bungalow




http://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-gurgaon

http://www.kanhaearthlodge.com/


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Day 3 & 4 Kanha

Early morning we assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive, Picnic breakfast inside the Park. We return to the Lodge around 11:00am. Siesta around lunchtime. At around 3 PM set off for a game drive return around 7 PM. Overnight at the Lodge Wednesdays - Kanha and Pench National Parks is closed on Wednesdays for afternoon Game Drive only. A nature walk with a local naturalist will be organized in place of the Wednesday afternoon games drive. It is also possible to do a cycling tour around the park’s peripheries.

Dinner – Every evening dinner will be organised exclusively for group in different Venus. Bush / Pool side / Terrace )

Day 5 Kanha / Pench (136 kms, 3.5 – 4 hours)

Early morning assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive by 4WD jeeps accompanied by local naturalist Return to the lodge for breakfast After you freshen up, drive to Pench with packed lunch. En route you will explore the Pench / Kanha forest corridor which is part of the Satpura–Maikal landscape. This landscape is classified as a global-priority Tiger Conservation Landscape (TCL) due to its potential for providing sufficient habitat that will allow the long-term survival of tigers. Wildlife scientists have found that the tigers in the Satpura–Maikal landscape have high genetic variation and very low genetic subdivision so the chances of their long term survival is brighter in this region if the forest corridors is intact and providing route for tigers to disperse. The other tiger habitats in India are fast becoming islands and there is little change in genetic pool of the tiger population. You will also get to learn about work been done by conservation organizations like WWF-India, to save this critical landscape. Arrive at Pench and check into your lodge. Evening nature walk in forest trail around the Lodge. Note - Pench tree Lodge is located on the Karmajhiri entrance gate of the park. From here only 6 Jeeps are allowed to enter (4 advance reservation, 2 on the spot booking). Pench Tree Lodge is the only lodge close to this gate. If we have a group booking then it becomes like an exclusive entry. For the first half an hour or so you do not encounter any other vehicle that have entered from other gates. You get to see the other vehicle in the main zones. Pench river flows through the park and it has been dammed ahead so it forms a large water body and as the water receded it forms grass lands for herbivores. Overnight at Pench Tree House – Tree House




http://www.pugdundeesafaris.com/penchtreelodge-pench.php


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Day 6 & 7 Pench Early morning we assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive, Picnic breakfast inside the Park. We return to the Lodge around 10:30 am Siesta around lunchtime. At around 3 PM set off for a game drive return around 6.30 PM. Overnight at the Lodge Day 8 Pench / Nagpur / Kolkata Early morning assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive by 4WD jeeps accompanied by local naturalist After lunch, drive to Nagpur (150 kms, 2.5 hours) to board flight for Kolkata Nagpur / Kolkata – Indigo Air – 6E 403 – 17:45 hrs / 19:25 hrs (Reporting time for domestic flight is at least 1 hour prior to flight departure time) Meeting and assistance on your arrival at Kolkata airport and transfer to the hotel close to the airport (Check in time at hotel will be is 1400 hrs and check out at 12 noon) Overnight at Swissotel – Classic Room Day 9 Kolkata / Jorhat / Kaziranga After breakfast at the hotel, morning transfer to the airport to board flight for Jorhat Kolkata / Jorhat – Jet Airways – 9W 7048 – 10:30 hrs / 13:20 hrs (via Guwahati) (Reporting time for domestic flight is at least 1 hour prior to flight departure time) Arrive at Jorhat airport and transfer to Kaziranga National Park (100 Kms, 2 hours). Arrive and check into your lodge (Check in time at hotel will be is 1400 hrs and check out at 12 noon) Time permitting walk along the Diphlu River for birding with the lodge naturalist (Sunset is early during the winter months) Overnight at Diphlu River Lodge - Cottage




http://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/

http://www.diphluriverlodge.com/lodge.html#ad-image-8


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Day 10 & 11 Kaziranga

Morning at sunrise enjoy game viewing elephant back. There is an organized elephant safari by the park authorities for duration of an hour at sun rise. After breakfast, game drive by 4WD jeep accompanied by local naturalist Afternoon game drive by 4WD jeep accompanied by local naturalist Elephant Safari - approximately 01 hour duration 05.30 to 06.30 AM OR 06.30 to 07.30 AM Jeep Safari Forenoon: Entry time between 07:00 to 09:30 Hours. Visiting time till 12:00 Noon Afternoon: Entry time between 13:30 to 15:00 Hours. Visiting time till sunset Overnight at the lodge Day 12 Kaziranga / Dibrugarh (220 Kms, 4.5 hours) Morning game drive by 4 WD jeep accompanied by local naturalist After lunch, drive to Dibrugarh. En route we visit the 13th Century Ahom monuments and temples at Sivasagar which encompass the 600 year old history of the Ahom Dynasty. The Siva Temple, built by the Ahoms, situated here is believed to be the tallest of all existing Hindu temples. The ruins of the Ahom palaces and monuments dot the landscape around this historical town. On arrival at Dibrugarh check in at Mancotta Heritage Chang Bungalow When the British established their tea plantations in the mid-19th century they quickly built comfortable bungalows designed to make life as pleasant as possible in what, was to them, a hostile and strange land. One of the main features of these buildings has given rise to their name – CHANG BUNGALOWS. Chang in the local language means “raised on stilts” and the design served multi purposes- to keep the house cool by allowing the breeze to blow underneath and to keep both water and animals out!

Arrive at Dibrugarh and check into your hotel (Check in time at hotel will be is 1400 hrs and check out at 12 noon)

Overnight at Mancotta Heritage Chang Bungalow – Standard Room

Day 13 Dibrugarh After breakfast, take a tea tour around a tea estate known for producing high quality CTC teas . i.e Ethelwold Tea Estate. Also experience of a Tea tasting session of different types of tea with one of the knowledgeable person in the field of tea / practicing Estate Manager.

Later we drive on to the river front and take a BOAT CRUISE on the mighty Brahmaputra river in a country boat (Subject to weather conditions). Cruise upto a beach island in the midst of the river. Enroute there is a possibility of your sighting flocks of migratory water birds and the elusive Gangetic River Dolphin. Enjoy the view of the Eastern Himalayas and take a nature walk in the vast expanse of grasslands surrounding the island. Enjoy your picnic lunch and the view of the Eastern Himalayas. Option to take a nature walk in the vast expanse of grasslands surrounding the island




http://purvidiscovery.com/assamteatourism/booking_index.php?bangalow_id=1


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or go for Kayaking. Return to the mainland. Evening enjoy a dance performance by an ethnic dance group on the bungalow lawns. Overnight at Mancotta/Chowkidinghee Heritage Chang Bungalow.

A TEA TOUR through a 157 years old heritage tea garden gives an insight into the different activities that vary from season to season. It teaches us all about tea- its origin, how it is grown, tea tasting and its quality. During the winter months the dormant bushes are pruned to ensure vigorous growth during the warmer months. Once the rains begin, and the temperature rises, the gardens come alive with teams of colourfully dressed tea pluckers, predominantly ladies as they are said to be better able to pluck the delicate buds and leaves. The harvest, which goes on continuously from March to November, is taken everyday to the factory where it undergoes an age old process of being turned into the finished product. All stages of the process are carefully controlled to ensure that the tea that leaves the factory is only of the highest quality, a quality that has made Assam tea world famous.

CTC (Crush, Tear and Curl) tea is a method of processing tea. In this process the leaves instead of being rolled, are passed through a series of cylindrical rollers with hundreds of small sharp "teeth" that Crush, Tear, and Curl.

This style of manufacture has the advantage that the finished product brews quickly, gives a dark infusion rapidly, is well suited for tea bags, and yields more cups per kg. In the Indian domestic market, this type of manufacture has virtually taken over - over 80% of tea production is of the CTC type.

CTC teas produce a rich red-brown color when they are boiled, which adds a beautiful color to tea made in the Indian style. This is done by boiling leaves in a mixture of milk, water and sugar and some spices (producing Masala Chai). With this production method, the tea does not get bitter, and its red colour comes through the white of the milk.

BIHU is the most popular folk dance of Assam. The people of Assam are very proud of its unique position among all other such dances of India. Except Bhangra (the popular folk dance of Punjab), no other folk dance in India can compete with the rhythmic exuberance of the Bihu dance. ‘Bihu’ performed by young men and women reflects youthful passion and joy rejuvenating life during the spring season, accompanied by songs woven around the theme of love and physical yearning. The dance is performed by all irrespective of caste, creed and religion.

Note: Visit to tea factory is subject to being operational on the day of the visit. There is no tea plucking between December till mid March and hence the actual manufacturing machines may not be operating during the visit to the factory. The factory manager will explain the process tea leaves undergo. Tea tasting session will be organised in the factory. Day 14 Dibrugarh / Delhi Today post breakfast we visit Mancotta Tea Estate known for its Orthodox type of tea. Take a tea walk around the plantation and visit the tea factory. Later in time transfer to Dibrugarh airport to board flight for onward destination

Later transfer to the airport to board flight for Delhi Dibrugarh / Delhi – Jet Airways – 9W 7068 – 13:55 hrs / 18:30 hrs ( 1 stop Guwahati) (Reporting time for domestic flight is at least 1 hour prior to flight departure time) Meeting and assistance on arrival at Delhi airport and transfer to your hotel close to the airport (Check in time at hotel will be is 1400 hrs and check out at 12 noon)




http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Color

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaves

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milk

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sugar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spices

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masala_Chai


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Overnight at Trident Gurgaon –Superior Garden View Room Day 15 Delhi / Agra (210 kms, 3.5 / 4 hours) After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Agra. Often overshadowed by Taj Mahal’s popularity, many are unaware of Agra’s other hidden wonders. The city’s surviving art, cultures, architecture and royal cuisine from that era are exceptional. Skilled local craftsmanship is almost genetic here; with artisans designing vases and trays with Pietra dura technique (using cut and fitted, highly-polished coloured stones to create images) and weaving embellished garments. You’ll find most of these items in the city’s bazaars. Although now a bustling industrial city, the beauty and elegance of its monuments and heritage shine on. Arrive at Agra and check into your hotel (Check in time at hotel will be is 1400 hrs and check out at 12 noon) Evening private guided tour to experience the wonderful effects caused by the reflections of the setting Sun in front of the Taj Mahal. With its shimmering white marble domes and exquisite craftsmanship, the Taj Mahal is Agra’s pride and one of the world’s greatest monuments. Built in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, the Taj is inlaid with black marble and semi-precious stones on its inside and outside, while the entire Koran is inscribed on the exterior of its main dome.

Note: Taj Mahal remains closed on Fridays

Overnight at hotel ITC Mughal – Mughal Chamber

Day 15 Delhi / Agra After breakfast, check out of the hotel and proceed for guided tour of Agra city: Visit the impressive Red Fort, built by Emperor Akbar in between 1567 and 1573. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it encompasses an enormous complex of courtly buildings. Also visit small but elegant Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (1622) lyrically described as a “jewel box in marble”. The tomb is a combination of white marble, coloured mosaic, stone inlay and lattice work. Stylistically, it is the most innovative 17th century Mughal building.

Later drive to Delhi (3.5 to 4 hrs depending on traffic) and check into Pride Plaza hotel close to the airport where wash and change rooms will be booked for you till departure

Later you will be transferred to the international airport to board flight back home (Reporting time at international airport is at least three hours prior to flight departure time) End of services




http://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-gurgaon

http://www.itchotels.in/hotels/itcmughal.aspx

http://www.pridehotel.com/delhi-hotel/index.html


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ESTIMATED TOUR COST – NET NON COMMISSIONABLE

Validity – October 2016 to April 2017

Prices are based on below mentioned services, hotels and category of rooms. All services (accommodation, train, flights, etc.) are subject to availability and change of price by the providers till the moment of confirmation.

Cost per person on twin share

4 pax US$ 5800 per person on twin share



Single room Supplement US$1800 per single room

Inclusive of: Non-inclusive of:

• Accommodation in double / twin room in above mentioned hotels / jungle lodges

• All meals (buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner) starting from breakfast on day 02 till lunch on day 16

• Arrival & Departure transfers in private air conditioned chauffeur driven vehicles

• 5 game drives in 4WD jeep in Kanha, Pench and Kaziranga National parks

• Two elephant rides in Kaziranga • Services of a full time accompanying

escort • Services of a local guide in Agra • Entrances fee to the monuments in

Agra • Tea Tour, Cultural programme and boat

ride at Dibrugarh

• Bottled water and Snacks – biscuits, juice tetra packs, wafers etc. in the car for on road journeys

• Airfares in economy class for Delhi / Jabalpur, Nagpur / Kolkata, Kolkata / Jorhat and Dibrugarh / Delhi sectors

• All presently applicable taxes

• Dinner on day of arrival and departure

• Hotel early check in / Late check out • Room service charges • Indian Visa • International Airfares • Any meals unless mentioned • Travel insurance • Health insurance • Other meals where not mentioned in

the program • Any drinks/water at any place. • All international /domestic airport

taxes • Overweight luggage • Personal expenses – mineral water,

telephone calls, laundry, etc. • Tips & gratuities • Camera Fees • Other services/activities which are not

listed in inclusive column





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HOTELS

DELHI

Trident Gurgaon is five star hotel for business as well as leisure travelers. It conveniently located and is about 15 minutes’ drive from the International airport on the Delhi to Jaipur highway. 25 minutes drive from downtown New Delhi. Set in seven acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel has an imposing yet serene presence, a resort-like ambience. It is characterized by domes, long walkways, inner courtyards, reflection pools and fountains. The hotel has 136 rooms, which include a Presidential suite and six Executive suites, overlooking the garden, courtyards and pools.

http://www.tridenthotels.com/gurgaon/index.asp

KANHA

Kanha earth lodge is spread in a forested area of 16 acres adjoining the buffer zone of Kanha in a small tribal hamlet. The lodge architecture has been inspired by the Gond tribal villages situated on the fringes of Kanha. The lodge is being built with high standards towards eco sensitivity, local village cooperation and a great wilderness experience. It consists of 12 villas, a multi cuisine restaurant and a small swimming pool. http://www.kanhaearthlodge.com/

PENCH Pench Tree Lodge is absolutely the most extraordinary bed in Pench Nationl Park. Up in the branches of the tree of 40 acres of private jungle, Pench tree lodge has only six massive tree houses, clock in at 700 sq ft each, 5m off the ground in all their luxurious glory. Beautiful four poster beds and spacious outdoor porches frame the Jungle surrounds with poetic aplomb and privacy is tantamount. These tree houses merge so perfectly into the greenery that they stay hidden until you are almost at the bottom of the wooden stairs leading up to the door of your room. There’s plenty of space inside with a sleeping and living area, and glass doors leading to a balcony from your bedroom and en-suite shower room so you can bathe with the sound of the wind blowing through the leaves and view of the jungle.


KOLKATA

Swissotel is Kolkata’s newest five-star luxury hotel near the airport and is attached to a mall featuring shops, restaurants and a multiplex cinema. Located in Rajarhat beside the IT hub, the hotel offers a distinct mix of leisure and business facilities, and is noted for its unique offering of Swiss hospitality and attention to detail. The award-winning rooftop Sky Lounge is the jewel of the hotel’s three restaurants and bar, offering views over the city. The sumptuous breakfast buffet offers a wide range of choices to




http://www.tridenthotels.com/gurgaon/index.asp

http://www.kanhaearthlodge.com/



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energise your day. http://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/ KAZIRANGA

Diphlu River Lodge provides high end jungle lodge accommodation. The lodge is well located with only the boundary river separating its extensive grounds from the National Park itself, and the jungle views are exceptional. Made of bamboo and thatch, the air-conditioned cottages are built on stilts above the ground. All cottages sleep two and have been beautifully designed to make full use of local materials and artifacts and blend in with the stunning natural surroundings. Each has a seating area with comfortable cane furniture, a writing desk, mini-bar, safe, small fridge and tea & coffee machine as well as top-quality beds and mattresses. www.assambengalnavigation.com/diphlu.htm DIBRUGARH

Mancotta Heritage Chang Bungalow - This heritage property is located a little away from Dibrugarh town, but is conveniently accessible from both Dibrugarh railway station and Dibrugarh airport. It is just 4 kms away from Dibrugarh railway station and 20 kms from Dibrugarh airport. It has 4 AC rooms in the main bungalow and 2 Single Non AC rooms in the annexure building within the main bungalow compound. All rooms of the main bungalow are with attached bathrooms with provision of bath tubs and shower while the annexure rooms are equipped with showers only. http://purvidiscovery.com/assamteatourism/booking_index.php?bangalow_id=1

AGRA

ITC Mughal - Sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal, a luxury hotel in Agra is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. The only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture, it now boasts of a brand new Royal Mughal Suites. This luxury hotel in Agra comprises of 233 opulent rooms and suites, recreating a paradise for the contemporary Mogul- full of splendor and perfection which was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.





http://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/

http://www.assambengalnavigation.com/diphlu.htm

http://purvidiscovery.com/assamteatourism/booking_index.php?bangalow_id=1



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ABOUT THE CITIES / NATIONAL PARKS

DELHI Unlikely connections of the old and new are seen everywhere in Delhi – bullock-carts and cars; hand-pulled trolleys and trucks; Western fast food café’s and roadside golgappa ‘watery Indian bread’ carts; buses and rickshaws; suits and traditional Indian wear. Delhi is said to have been destroyed and rebuilt seven times during the reign of different royal dynasties, hence the legend of the “seven cities of Delhi.” Modern archaeological evidence shows settlements in the region dating back to 1000 BC. Apart from Indraprastha, these included Quila Rai Pithora, Siri, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad, Ferozabad and Shahjahanabad. Much like its hybrid culture, Delhi’s architecture is a fascinating mix of Indo-Saracenic monuments and a new urban metropolis. Its historic heart, Old Delhi, is a dense network of narrow alleys and tightly packed markets and houses while New Delhi conceptualized by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens and designed by Hebert Baker is symmetrical, lined with rows of trees, wide roads and grand colonial buildings. Then there is the “globalized” Delhi of glass-cased corporate offices, shopping malls, brands and dizzying traffic. Also known as ‘Dilli’ by the locals, the smells, sights and sounds of this city sweep your senses, disorienting and fascinating you at the same time. Gateway to the rest of India, Delhi is a truly cosmopolitan city and set to leave a lasting impression on every visitor.

KANHA NATIONAL PARK

Kanha is India’s largest National Park encompasses nearly two thousand square kilometres of deciduous forest, grasslands, hills and gently meandering rivers - home to literally hundreds of species of animals and birds. Prior to this, the whole area was one enormous vice-regal hunting ground, its game the exclusive preserve for high-ranking British army officers and civil servants seeking trophies for their colonial bungalows. It is last remaining habitat of the hard ground barasingha, or swamp deer, which was brought back from the brink of extinction. This picturesque reserve presently boasts of having large tigers population, as it has the ideal habitat. The meadows called maidans surrounded by thick forests create ideal grazing spots for the hundreds of chital deer, barasingha and sambar deer and ideal hunting ground for tigers, leopards, jackal and wild dogs. Gaur - Indian Bison, sloth bear, wild pig, striped hyena, muntjacs - barking deer, chousingha - 4 horn antelope, jungle cat, mongoose, rhesus macaque and languor monkey are also regularly seen in the reserve. This diverse landscape also supports over 250+ species of Indian birds including migratory species. The Indian jungle fowl, which is the ancestor of domestic hens, is common here.

Park Highlights

• Largest National Park with high population of tigers and its prey - various deer and

antelope, including the extremely rare hard ground barasingha deer.

• Meadows surrounded by forest called maidans create ideal grazing spots for the hundreds

of chital, barasingha and sambar deer and ideal hunting ground for tigers, leopards and

wild dogs. Safari routes crisscross the maidans.

• The beautiful and diverse landscape of Kanha deal for birdwatching, with over 250 bird

species including migratory birds.

• Two Park entrance gates – Mukki and Kisli, 4 Tourism Zones Mukki, Kisli, Sarhi and Kanha.

Kanha is prime habitat and comes under premium Zone with higher permit fee to reduce

tourism impact.

• Mukki Entrance gates side has fewer lodges but upmarket like Taj &Beyond – Banjartola,

Sher Garh. However they can only visit Kanha Zone in mornings.





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• Kisli Entrance gate side has more lodges and have morning and evening easy access to

Kanha, Kisli and Sarhi zones. Boutique Lodges Kanha Earth Lodge, Flame of Forest are

located here.

• Best three domestic airports – Jabalpur, Nagpur and Raipur 4 to 5 hrs away

• Airfield for charter flights 15 minutes for park entrance gate.

• 4 to 5 hrs driving distance from popular tiger reserve Bandhavgarh and Pench.

PENCH NATIONAL PARK

Pench National Park is lesser known but most conveniently located Tiger habitat which is only 3 hrs driving distance from well-connected Nagpur Airport. Panoramic beauty of this region that has been described as early as the beginning of the 20th century by naturalists like Captain J. Forsyth in ‘Highlands of Central India' and by Rudyard Kipling in the 'Jungle Book'. Park takes its name from Pench River. The Park has mainly Southern tropical dry deciduous and dry mixed deciduous forest dominated by teak trees. During the dry season the river ceases to flow, forming pools which provide the primary watering holes for Tigers and its prey. On the southern boundary of the park the river is dammed and around its banks are hordes of water-birds. Mugger Indian Marsh crocodile, Indian Flap Shell Turtle and Peninsular Black Turtle can also been seen. Almost all the animals seen in Kanha NP, except barasingha are in habitants of Pench like Gaur, Wild Boar and Common Langurs, Sambar, Spotted and Barking Deer. With luck we might also see sloth bear, Dhole (wild dog), or even a Leopard which are generally seen in the peripheral areas of the parkwhere they can more easily avoid Tigers. Brilliant birdlife over 170 species recorded here. Park Highlights

• Most conveniently located Tiger habitat. Only 3 hrs driving distance from well-connected Nagpur Airport that has morning and evening flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Hydrabad, Bangalore. And also international flights to Europe via Middle East.

• Panoramic beauty of this Forest was described by Rudyard Kipling in the 'Jungle Book'.

This is same forest of Seoni

• Game drives are taken in the early morning and late afternoon in small 4WD open top vehicles called 'gypsy' that seat 2 to 4 visitors plus driver and naturalists.

KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK

This project tiger reserve sprawls 430 square kilometers on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra, occupies the vast valley floor against a backdrop of the forest-covered Karbi Anglong hills. Rivulets and bhils (shallow lakes), and the semi-evergreen forested "Highlands", just out of reach of the mighty Brahmaputra's annual floods, blend into marshes and flood plains covered with tall elephant grass.

Until 1908’s Kaziranga was sportsman and poachers paradise, but the rapidly declining population of One horned Rhinos forced the authorities, in 1926 to constitute it a reserve forest. The rhino the main attraction in the park is Asia’s highest concentration. The only natural enemy of the Rhino is the tiger of which there is a sizeable population in the park. The tall grass and the patches of the forest provide excellent cover for the big cats. Kaziranga's one-horned rhino -at over a thousand, the largest concentration in the subcontinent -are best seen from the back of an elephant, early on a winter's morning. Although the elephants do not penetrate far into the sanctuary, merely travelling in a three- or four-kilometre circle, it is incredible how much wildlife





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can be seen in this small area. The rhinos seem oblivious to camera-clicking tourists, although like the unpredictable wild buffalo, they are equipped with lethal horns and are potentially ferocious. Among other animals found in Kaziranga are elephants, swamp deer, wild boar, gaur, leopard cats, otters, leopard, rock python, monitor Lizard etc. Grasslands are often excellent raptor country, and Kaziranga is no exception – the crested serpent eagle is common, Palla’s fishing eagle and the gray headed eagle are frequently seen. Other birdlife seen in Kaziranga comprises of swamp partridge, red jungle fowl, Bengal florican, bar headed goose, whistling teal, pelicans, rose-breasted parakeet, Black-necked stork, adjutant stork, open billed stork, egrets herons etc.

DIBRUGARH

Dibrugarh is the gateway to the “Hidden Land” of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh and Northern Myanmar. The Ahoms from Thailand came through Northern Myanmar to this area in the 13th century to establish their Empire which thrived in the ancient land of Assam. It is the “Camellia” town of Upper Assam, an undisturbed haven, with its rich tea gardens resembling a lush green carpet. Experience and enjoy the richness of these tea gardens while staying at the Heritage Chang Bungalows. These are constructed on stilts and are situated in a serene atmosphere free from pollution.

AGRA Often overshadowed by Taj Mahal’s popularity, many are unaware of Agra’s other hidden wonders. The city’s surviving art, culture, architecture and royal cuisine from that era are exceptional. Skilled local craftsmanship is almost genetic here; with artisans designing vases and trays with Pietra dura technique (using cut and fitted, highly-polished coloured stones to create images) and weaving embellished garments. You’ll find most of these items in the city’s bazaars. Although now a bustling industrial city, the beauty and elegance of its monuments and heritage shine on. Contemporary Agra can only be described as an intense yet grand experience.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS TO PRE BOOK GAME DRIVES IN NATIONAL PARK Limited numbers of visitors are allowed inside the National Parks. Booking is done on first cum first serve basis. Therefore, we would request you to please send us the following information at the earliest in order to enable us to book game drives or a scanned copy of the relevant pages of the passports.

1. Salutation (Mr/Mrs/Miss)

2. Passport Number

3. First Name as per Passport

4. Date of Issue of Passport

5. Last Name as per Passport

6. Date of Expiry of Passport

7. Nationality 8. Place of Issue of Passport

9. Date of Birth

WEATHER Mostly hot, dry and sunny. Early morning and evening game drives in open-topped jeeps can be cold (Nov to Mar). In mid March and April temperatures during the day will be in the upper thirties centigrade but Tiger sightings at this time of year are excellent. This is because the vegetation dies away and the Tigers are drawn to the more limited water supply. By May, daytime





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temperatures can reach 45°C. If we can cope with this the sightings at this time of year are generally excellent and the park has very few tourists.

EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING Casual clothing is the order of the day. Hard wearing, easy to wash travel clothes are ideal. We may wish to pack one set of slightly smarter clothes to wear at the hotels. Laundry service will be available at all the places we stay. Early morning can be cold (November to March) until the sun is up especially on game drives, in open top Jeeps and in the jungle. A light windproof or fleece jacket, warm hat, gloves and scarf are recommended. During the day we will need a wide brimmed sun hat and sunglasses. Lightweight, comfortable walking shoes are advised for throughout the holiday and for sightseeing. Special note: No bright colors in the field please, including brightly colored clothes, hats, gloves, etc. Although the birds and other wildlife are relatively approachable, muted colors are essential to improve our chances. We should bring a pair of binoculars in good repair. If we are keen birders we may want to bring a spotting scope. We should bring all the camera equipment, spare batteries and film that you will need. For digital camera users bring sufficient memory cards and storage. If we are using rechargeable batteries you will need to bring our charger and a travel adapter (round two pin). Plastic bags, cotton bags or pillowcases are useful to protect our camera equipment from dust and sand. A small daypack/camera bag is essential for carrying excess clothing, camera equipment and a water bottle. Liability: ROYAL EXPEDITIONS PVT. LTD., while undertaking tours, transportation, hotel accommodations and other services only acts as an agent on the clear understanding that it shall not be, in any way responsible or liable for any accident, damage loss, delay or inconvenience caused in connection with travel facilities (Hotels, Resorts, Airlines, Transporters, Railways) arranged by the company, its employees or agents. Rates quoted are subject to change without notice due to change in foreign exchange rate, or transport or hotel tariff. All bookings are accepted and executed with utmost care, yet no responsibility is undertaken for any change or deviation on account of factors beyond our control.

By

Royal Expeditions Pvt. Ltd

26 Community Centre (II Floor), East of Kailash , New Delhi – 110065

Tel: 91-11-26238545, 91-11-41622245 Fax: +91-11-26475954

Email: [email protected] Web: www.royalexpeditions.com






Documents

INDIAN WILDLIFE TOUR TIGERS, RHINO’s WITH TEA GARDENS …royalexpeditions.com/download/580/wildlife... · Pench National Park - Pench has been included under the umbrella of Project