CLASSIC TIGER SAFARI – Ranthambore-Bandhavgarh Ultimate Tiger Quest (11 Nights / 10 Days)
Indulge your senses in the wild beauty of India’s most iconic tiger habitats – Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore – with our meticulously crafted Classic Tiger Safari tour. Spanning 11 days and 12 nights, this exceptional journey promises to be the ultimate quest for these majestic creatures, offering you an unrivaled opportunity to witness and photograph the unparalleled magnificence of the wild Bengal tiger. With a total of 18 thrilling safaris, this adventure is tailored for the avid wildlife photographer in you.
Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore stand proudly as the quintessential tiger havens, boasting a remarkable density of these majestic cats, ensuring that tiger sightings are not only frequent but also awe-inspiring. The parks have garnered global recognition for being among the finest tiger habitats, offering you the best chances to observe, document, and capture these regal predators in their natural habitat.
During your stay, you’ll be nestled in deluxe resorts equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing retreat after your thrilling safaris. Our focus is on providing you with a seamless blend of luxury and adventure, so you can rejuvenate for the next day’s escapades.
The core of this tour is the remarkable opportunity to undertake 18 jungle safaris (9 safaris each in the core zones of Ranthambore and Bandhavgarh), promising to be a feast for your lens and a treat for your soul, with each offering an unforgettable encounter with the wild. Embark on these journeys in a 4×4 open private vehicle, affording you optimal visibility and comfort for both viewing and photography. With just 2-3 guests per vehicle, you’ll have ample space to immerse yourself in the spectacle without any obstructions.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a nature lover, this tour caters to all skill levels. Our carefully curated itinerary ensures that you spend maximum time within the heart of the forest, offering you unparalleled access to these captivating creatures and their enchanting habitat.
For seamless Airport transfers, we’ve chosen spacious, air-conditioned Innova SUVs. These vehicles provide ample room for your camera equipment and luggage, ensuring that you travel comfortably between destinations without compromising on space or convenience.
In summary, our Classic Tiger Safari tour is an immersive 11-day odyssey through the mesmerizing landscapes of Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore. With its focus on tiger viewing and photography, this tour is tailored for enthusiasts who seek the thrill of encountering these magnificent cats up close, providing you the optimal environment to hone your photography skills or simply indulge in the joy of watching these magnificent creatures. So come, be part of an unforgettable adventure, where the roar of the jungle and the majesty of tigers will forever be etched in your memories.
JOURNEY OUTLINE
Day 1: Arrival in New Delhi
Day 2: Drive to Ranthambore (320 km/4-hour drive)
Day 2: Afternoon safari in Ranthambore
Day 3: Ranthambore National Park – Morning and evening safari drives
Day 4: Ranthambore National Park – Morning and evening safari drives
Day 5: Ranthambore National Park – Morning and evening safari drives
Day 6: Ranthambore National Park – Morning and evening safari drives
Day 7: Ranthambore to New Delhi (320 km/4-hour drive)
Day 7: Flight to Jabalpur, Drive to Bandhavgarh (175 km/3.30-hour drive)
Day 8: Bandhavgarh National Park – Morning and evening safari drives
Day 9: Bandhavgarh National Park – Morning and evening safari drives
Day 10: Bandhavgarh National Park – Morning and evening safari drives
Day 11: Bandhavgarh National Park – Morning and evening safari drives
Day 12: Morning safari, Drive to Jabalpur (175km / 3.30 hours), Flight back to New Delhi
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
18 x Thrilling tiger safaris / game drives in 4×4 open private jeeps (gypsy), 9 safaris each in the core zones of Ranthambore and Bandhavgarh National Park.
Tailored for nature lovers and photographers, regardless of their skill level.
Enjoy seamless airport transfers through spacious, air-conditioned Innova SUVs Meticulously planned itineraries to minimize travel time and maximize the time spent in the heart of nature.
Ideal for individuals seeking profound connections with the wilderness and its captivating inhabitants.
Experience luxurious 4-star lodges that harmoniously blend with the surrounding natural beauty.
Expert-guided safaris for strategic wildlife sightings. Abundant biodiversity with opportunities to spot tigers, leopards, elephants, jackals, sloth bears and diverse birdlife.
precious ecosystems and their inhabitants. Unforgettable memories of close encounters with majestic tigers and India’s wild wonders.
StripeScape Safaris is dedicated to delivering the ultimate tiger safari experience in India, offering a perfect blend of learning, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Witness the mesmerizing moments of tiger encounters during our tiger safari tours in India through the captivating video clips below. As you delve into these thrilling visuals, you’ll get a glimpse of the exhilarating experiences that await you on our tiger safaris.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Here’s a detailed itinerary for your “Classic Tiger Safari” tour, covering Ranthambhore and Bandhavgarh National Parks:
Day 1
Arrival in New Delhi
- Welcome to India! On your arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, our friendly representative will greet you.
- Transfer to your hotel (4/5-star category) for a relaxing evening. Rest and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Gurgaon / Le Meridien Gurgaon / Trident, Gurgaon
Meals: Breakfast
Day 2
Drive to Ranthambore (320 km/4-hour drive)
- After a satisfying breakfast, complete the check-out process at your hotel.
- Begin your journey to Ranthambore, a 320 km drive taking approximately 4 hours.
- Ranthambhore National Park, famously known as the tiger paradise is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, India in the northwestern part of the country. Ranthambore is renowned for its population of Bengal tigers. It’s one of the best places in India to spot these majestic cats in their natural habitat. The park is divided into multiple zones, and each has its own unique charm.
- Ranthambore has a rich historical background. At the heart of Ranthambore National Park stands the magnificent Ranthambore Fort. This historic fort dates back to the 8th century and has witnessed centuries of dynasties and rulers.
- Ranthambore was once a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur. In 1955, it was established as a wildlife sanctuary, and in 1980 it became a national park and a tiger reserve. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 as part of the “Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
- Ranthambore’s transformation from a royal hunting ground to a protected tiger reserve also marks a historical shift in wildlife conservation in India, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural habitats.
- Ranthambhore is nestled in the southeastern part of the Aravalli Range, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. These ancient hills provide a picturesque backdrop to the park. The park’s terrain is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes dry deciduous forests, open grasslands, rocky outcrops, numerous lakes, undulating hills and plateaus. The varied topography of Ranthambhore National Park, ranging from rugged hills to serene lakes, contributes to its rich biodiversity and makes it a captivating destination.
- Upon arrival, check in to your selected lodge.
- In the afternoon, get ready for your first safari experience in Ranthambhore National Park.
- Spend the night at your lodge in Ranthambhore.
Accommodation: Nahargarh Ranthambhore / The Tigress, Ranthambhore
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 3-6
Explore Ranthambhore National Park – Morning and Evening Safari Drives
- Wake up early at 5:00 AM and begin with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee as you prepare for the morning safari drive into the Ranthambhore National Park
- Head out for the morning tiger safari drive in an open 4×4 vehicle guided by experienced naturalists into the heart of Ranthambore National Park, keeping an eye out for the elusive tigers and other wildlife. This is a prime time for wildlife sightings as many animals including the tigers are most active during the cooler hours.
- Ranthambore’s diverse topography and scenic landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop for your safari. Be prepared for stunning views.
- You’ll return from the morning safari around 10 AM, having had an unforgettable wildlife experience.
- After returning to your wildlife resort, take some time to freshen up and relax in the comfort of your lodge.
- A delicious and hearty breakfast will be served at your wildlife resort, offering a variety of options to satisfy your morning appetite.
- You have the option to spend your midday leisurely at the lodge. This is a great time to unwind, take in the natural surroundings, or simply rest.
- Lunch will be served at the lodge, providing a chance to savor a range of culinary delights.
- In the late afternoon, prepare for another thrilling safari adventure. This is another opportunity to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. You’ll embark on an afternoon safari drive, which typically begins around 2:30 PM.
- As the sun sets, relish the serene ambiance of the jungle and return to the lodge.
- Enjoy a delectable dinner and spend a peaceful night at your lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness, providing a perfect conclusion to your day’s wildlife experiences.
Accommodation: Nahargarh Ranthambhore / The Tigress, Ranthambhore
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (Full Board)
Day 7
Ranthambore to New Delhi (320 km/4-hour drive), Flight to Jabalpur, Drive to Bandhavgarh (175 km/3.30-hour drive)
- After early breakfast, check out from your Ranthambore lodge.
- Drive back to Delhi Airport, covering approximately 320 km in about 4 hours.
- Board an IndiGo flight scheduled to depart at 13:30 hrs and takes around 2 hours to reach Jabalpur.
- Upon arrival at Jabalpur airport, you will be warmly received by our driver.
- Embark on a scenic 3.30 hour drive covering a distance of 175 kilometers to reach Bandhavgarh National Park.
- Arrive at your exquisite 4-star category lodge nestled amidst the wilderness.
- Enjoy the serene surroundings and indulge in a sumptuous dinner.
Accommodation: Kings Lodge / Bandhav Vilas / Jungle Lodge
Meals: Dinner
Day 8-11
Explore Bandhavgarh National Park – Morning and Evening Safari Drives
- Rise early each morning, around 5:00 AM, as the jungle awakens.
- After a quick tea or coffee, you’ll set off on a thrilling tiger safari drive into the beautiful Bandhavgarh National Park.
- Bandhavgarh’s diverse landscapes, including dense sal forests, open meadows, and rocky terrain, provide the ideal backdrop for your adventure.
- Keep your camera ready as you explore this tiger-rich terrain, known for its high density of these majestic cats.
- Pause for a packed breakfast amidst the wilderness, savouring the sights and sounds of the forest.
- The safari continues as you search for tigers and other wildlife, guided by your experienced naturalist.
- Around 11:30 AM, return from your morning safari, and freshen up at your lodge.
- Enjoy a delectable lunch, taking time to relax and recharge.
- The lodge provides a serene atmosphere for you to unwind and share your morning’s wildlife sightings with fellow travelers.
- Following a delightful lunch, embark on yet another captivating safari, in pursuit of majestic felines, while relishing the extraordinary beauty of this pristine wilderness.
- As the sun descends, delight in the tranquil atmosphere of the forest and make your way back to the lodge.
- Indulge in a delightful dinner at the lodge, enveloped by the harmonious sounds of nature.
Accommodation: Kings Lodge / Bandhav Vilas / Jungle Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (Full Board)
Day 12
Bandhavgarh – Jabalpur – New Delhi (3.30 hour drive / 175km + Flight)
- Begin the day with a final safari, bidding farewell to the captivating wilderness.
- Return to the lodge for breakfast, cherishing the last moments in Bandhavgarh.
- Check-out from the lodge and embark on a scenic drive to Jabalpur.
- Arrive at Jabalpur airport and board a flight scheduled to depart at 16:00 hrs, taking you back to New Delhi.
- Your adventure culminates as you arrive in New Delhi, marking the end of an extraordinary journey through the heart of India’s wildlife.
TOUR INCLUSIONS
Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable stay at a 4-star category hotel in New Delhi, conveniently located near the airport, including breakfast. Followed by a Luxurious stay in carefully selected 4-star category wildlife lodges in Ranthambhore and Bandhavgarh, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
Transportation: All required transfers during the tour, including domestic flights and airport transfers in comfortable Air-conditioned Toyota Innova cars.
Wildlife Safaris: 9 jungle safaris/game drives each in Ranthambhore and Bandhavgarh National Park, led by experienced naturalists and guides in a comfortable 4×4 open private jeeps (gypsy).
Meals: Relish delicious and sumptuous meals throughout the tour, including breakfast in New Delhi and all meals at the 4-star category lodge/wildlife resorts in Ranthambhore and Bandhavgarh.
Expert Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides to enhance your wildlife experiences, providing insights into the park’s ecosystem.
Park Entry Fees: All necessary entrance fees to national parks and wildlife reserves.
Activities: Optional birdwatching, nature walks, and cultural experiences.
Conservation Fee and Applicable Taxes: Contribution to sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation efforts.
24/7 Support: Dedicated assistance from our team throughout the journey.
TOUR EXCLUSIONS
International Flights: Travel to and from India is not included in the package.
Travel Insurance: We recommend travelers to arrange their own travel insurance for the duration of the tour.
Personal Expenses: Expenses for souvenirs, additional activities, and personal purchases.
Gratuities: Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff are at your discretion.
Alcoholic Beverages: Drinks and beverages apart from those included with meals.
Visa Fees: Any fees related to obtaining an Indian visa for foreign travelers.
ACCOMMODATION
Indulge in the luxury of accommodations thoughtfully selected from a range of handpicked 4-star premium hotels and lodges, all carefully chosen to enhance your wildlife adventure. When you share your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide you with a selection of 2 to 3 accommodation options. We’re delighted to offer you the most up-to-date images of these lodgings during the booking process, along with direct links to their TripAdvisor ratings for your convenience.
Our tour package includes stays in exceptionally comfortable air-conditioned jungle resorts, exuding an air of elegance. These lodgings are fully equipped with modern amenities, including air-conditioned rooms, hot water showers, a continuous power supply supported by a generator, and complimentary bottled drinking water.
You can relish the diverse offerings of a multi-cuisine kitchen catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences. These lodges are strategically located in close proximity to the wilderness, enveloping you in a natural ambiance that enhances your wildlife experience.
Moreover, these lodges serve as habitats for a rich variety of bird species, creating a delightful atmosphere that’s particularly cherished by birdwatchers and photographers. Immerse yourself in the serene and picturesque surroundings, ensuring that your stay is truly unforgettable.
TOUR COST
For a detailed breakdown of the tour cost and to discuss any specific requirements or preferences you may have, kindly fill out our Enquiry Form below:
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EXPERIENCE OUR HIGHLY PRAISED TIGER SAFARI TOURS
The tiger safari tours we recommend can vary depending on the duration of your desired tour. For a week-long tour, we suggest focusing on just one national park renowned for the highest chances of tiger sightings, such as Ranthambore or Bandhavgarh. The decision may also depend on how far in advance you are booking your tour, as Ranthambore permits are released a year in advance, while Bandhavgarh permits are released 120 days in advance. Based on your planned travel dates and booking timeline, you can opt for either of these parks to fit your weekly tour. However, if you have about 10 days or more, you can comfortably take a tour that covers two parks. One park is chosen for its frequent tiger encounters, while the other is known for its picturesque locations to capture captivating tiger sightings. For example, you may consider combinations like Corbett-Ranthambore or Kanha-Bandhavgarh. This way, you can comfortably experience the best of both worlds and create unforgettable memories of India’s majestic wildlife.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (Classic Tiger Safari Tour)
While it’s recommended to bring your camera and equipment, we can also provide camera rental options for photography enthusiasts.
We’ve created a comprehensive packing guide on our Safari Planner Page to help you pack efficiently for your exciting adventure.
Yes, our safari drives are guided by experienced wildlife experts who will provide insights into the local flora and fauna.
We use 4×4 open private jeeps for safari drives to ensure optimal visibility and comfort.
Both parks are known for their tiger populations, but you can also expect to spot leopards, elephants, jackals, sloth bears, and a diverse range of bird species.
While the focus is on wildlife, we do incorporate cultural experiences, such as visits to local villages, to provide a well-rounded view of the region.
We offer carefully selected 4-star premium lodges and resorts that provide a comfortable and immersive experience in the wilderness.
Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness to comfortably enjoy safari drives.
This tour is suitable for solo travelers, families, and groups. We can tailor the experience to accommodate various traveler preferences.
The best time for tiger sightings is during the summer season, from Mid-March to Mid-June. However, the cooler months, November to February, offer more comfortable weather for safari drives. You can find more extensive information about various seasons, including their advantages and considerations, on our “When to Travel” page, conveniently located in the footer section of our website.