Tiger Trails of India: Kanha & Bandhavgarh Wildcat Odyssey (10 Days)

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the heart of India’s iconic tiger reserves with our exclusive “Tiger Trails of India” safari tour. Over the course of this immersive experience, you’ll delve into the untamed beauty of two of the country’s most renowned national parks – Kanha and Bandhavgarh. The adventure unfolds with 3 full-day zone free safari drives in each park, offering an unprecedented opportunity to witness the majestic Bengal tiger in its natural habitat.

In Kanha National Park, known as the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book, you’ll traverse through lush sal and bamboo forests, vast meadows, and winding rivers. The park’s diverse landscapes create an ideal environment for a rich variety of wildlife, and the elusive Bengal tigers that roam freely. Our expert naturalists and guides will lead you through the intricate network of trails, enhancing your chances of encountering these magnificent creatures as they gracefully navigate their kingdom.

The journey continues into Bandhavgarh National Park, a tiger haven renowned for its high tiger population. As you traverse the rugged terrains and dense forests of Bandhavgarh, keep your eyes peeled for the distinctive stripes of the Bengal tiger amidst the ancient fort ruins and serene water bodies. With three full-day safari drives, you’ll have ample time to explore the diverse topography of Bandhavgarh, ensuring an immersive experience that goes beyond tiger sightings.

Each day promises not only the thrill of encountering tigers but also the chance to witness an array of wildlife, from leopards and deer to an array of bird species. Our “Tiger Trails of India” tour is crafted to provide a seamless blend of adventure, education, and appreciation for the incredible biodiversity that thrives within these protected reserves. Join us on this unforgettable safari, where every moment is a step closer to the wild and a testament to the beauty of India’s tiger trails.

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.

“Tiger Trails of India” is not merely a safari; it’s a journey into the heart of the wild, where the echoes of the jungle and the footprints of the elusive tigers linger in your memories. Immerse yourself in the magic of India’s tiger country, where every trail tells a story, and every sighting is a testament to the untamed spirit of the wilderness. Join us for an unforgettable expedition into the tiger trails, where nature’s drama unfolds in all its untamed glory.

About Full-Day Zone-Free Safari Drives

Full-day safaris are special permission safaris that allow you to stay in the park from sunrise to sunset without any zone restrictions, maximizing your chances of spotting wildlife. These safaris are ideal for serious wildlife enthusiasts and photographers who want to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness. Opting for a full-day safari, particularly during the winter season, holds numerous potential advantages and benefits.

  • Exclusive Tiger Encounters: During the winter, tigers exhibit an extended period of activity following a specific cycle. As we enter the park at dawn, they are highly active, and this behavior continues for a couple of hours. However, as the day progresses, they tend to become fatigued from their movements and seek rest. The unique advantage of full-day safari vehicles becomes evident when regular safari vehicles exit the park. With the cooler temperatures of winter, the tigers regain their energy and become active once more. The cooler winter temperatures enable them to move freely without the risk of overheating, offering an additional advantage for full-day safari vehicles to witness exclusive tiger encounters in the absence of other vehicles.
  • Head-On Sightings: Tigers often prefer walking on the safari tracks, which offer a comfortable pathway covered in soft sand and free from thorns, rocks, and dried leaves. When these tracks are free of jeeps, especially after regular safari vehicles have left the park, tigers tend to roam long distances along these pathways. This provides exclusive and thrilling encounters for visitors on full-day safaris. These sightings are known as head-on sightings and are considered the holy grail of tiger experiences. You get an unobstructed view of the majestic predator as it walks freely towards your vehicle, displaying a range of natural behaviors. From marking its territory along the way to spray marking on prominent landmarks such as trees and rocks, sniffing various spots for intruders, and exhibiting the flehmen response – these encounters offer a captivating insight into the tiger’s world.
  • Tiger Family Activities: A full-day safari is especially advantageous when there is a tiger family with young cubs. The small cubs are naturally wary of safari vehicles, and when there are too many vehicles around, they tend to hide in tall grass for safety. However, once all the regular safari vehicles have departed from the park, and only one or two full-day safari vehicles remain, the mother tiger feels more at ease. She can then confidently guide her cubs to the nearest watering hole for a drink or lead them to a kill she has stashed somewhere. At times, the curious cubs may even explore short distances on their own while the mother is away on a hunt. This unique opportunity allows full day safari visitors to witness the heart-warming interactions and activities of a tiger family up close.
  • Extended Entry Exit Time: Lastly, full-day safari vehicles enjoy the advantage of entering the park 15 minutes earlier and staying 15 minutes later than regular safari vehicles during the prime movement time of tigers. This extended duration provides an exceptional opportunity to witness the captivating behavior of tigers during their most active time, making the full-day safari an even more rewarding experience.

JOURNEY OUTLINE

Day 1: Arrival in New Delhi

Day 2: Fly to Jabalpur (1.5 hours)

Day 2: Drive to Kanha National Park (4 hours)

Day 3: Full Day Safari in Kanha National Park

Day 4: Full Day Safari in Kanha National Park

Day 5: Full Day Safari in Kanha National Park

Day 6: Morning Safari in Kanha National Park

Day 6: Drive to Bandhavgarh (250km / 5.30 hours)

Day 7: Full Day Safari – Bandhavgarh National Park

Day 8: Full Day Safari – Bandhavgarh National Park

Day 9: Full Day Safari – Bandhavgarh National Park

Day 10: Morning Safari in Bandhavgarh

Day 10: Drive to Jabalpur (175km / 4 hours)

Day 10: Fly back to New Delhi

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

3 x Full Day Safaris in Kanha with Extended Entry-Exit Time

3 x Full Day Safaris in Bandhavgarh with Extended Entry-Exit Time

2 x Morning Safaris, one each in Kanha & Bandhavgarh

Sunrise-to-sunset safaris with no zone restrictions

Increased chances of diverse wildlife encounters

Explore prime core zones in 4×4 open private jeeps

Indulge in an Exclusive and Personalized Safari Experience

Well-Planned Itineraries to Maximize Safari Time

Ideal for serious wildlife lovers and photographers

Photograph Elusive Tigers in Their Natural Habitat

Benefit from Expert Guides with Profound Knowledge

Learn the art of animal tracking from seasoned professionals

Hone Your Wildlife Photography Skills to Perfection

Explore a Rich Diversity of Flora and Fauna

Stay in Luxurious 4-Star Wilderness Lodges

Savor delicious meals while immersed in nature

Effortless Travel with Hassle-Free Pick-Up and Drop-Off

Leave with Stunning Wildlife Photos and Unforgettable Memories

DETAILED ITINERARY

Here’s a detailed itinerary for your “Tiger Trails of India” tour, covering Kanha 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

Fly to Jabalpur (1.5 hours), Drive to Kanha (175 km / 4 hour drive)

  • After a satisfying breakfast, complete the check-out process at your hotel.
  • A short transfer of approximately 30 minutes will take you to the airport for your flight to Jabalpur, a central Indian city close to Kanha.
  • Board an IndiGo flight scheduled to depart at 13:30 hrs and takes around 1.30 hours to reach Jabalpur.
  • Upon arrival at Jabalpur airport, you will be warmly received by our driver.
  • Embark on a scenic 4-hour drive covering a distance of 175 kilometers to reach Kanha National Park.
  • Arrive at your exquisite 4-star lodge nestled amidst the pristine wilderness.
  • Enjoy the serene surroundings and indulge in a sumptuous dinner after a quick check-in.

Accommodation: Kanha Jungle Camp / Singinawa Jungle Lodge / Kanha Earth Lodge

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 3-5

Explore Core Zones of Kanha National Park in Full Day Safari Drives

  • Wake up early at 5:00 AM and begin with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee as you prepare for the full day safari drive into the Kanha National Park
  • Head out in an open 4×4 vehicle guided by experienced naturalists into the heart of Kanha National Park, keeping an eye out for the elusive tigers and other wildlife.
  • Full-day safaris are special permission safaris that allow you to stay in the park from sunrise to sunset without any zone restrictions, maximizing your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Kanha National Park sprawls across 940 sq km, encompassing a captivating landscape of sal and bamboo forests, undulating grasslands, and meandering streams.
  • During your safari, take a break to relish a packed breakfast provided by the lodge. This delightful meal is enjoyed at a designated spot, typically on the bonnet of the safari vehicle, allowing you to relish your meal in the midst of Kanha’s untamed wilderness.
  • Kanha is a true marvel, not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich biodiversity. This enchanting terrain served as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book, brought to life with vivid descriptions.
  • Continue your quest to spot the elusive Tiger while immersing yourself in the rejuvenating natural surroundings.
  • The lodge staff will deliver a freshly packed lunch to the park entrance gate, allowing you to enjoy it during the afternoon safari break within the forest.
  • After enjoying a delightful lunch, resume your captivating safari, seeking majestic felines and savoring the extraordinary beauty of this untouched wilderness.
  • 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: Kanha Jungle Camp / Singinawa Jungle Lodge / Kanha Earth Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (Full Board)

Day 6

Morning Safari in Kanha, Drive to Bandhavgarh (260 km / 5.30 hour drive)

  • Begin the day with a final safari, bidding farewell to the captivating wilderness of Kanha.
  • Return to the lodge for early lunch and check-out, cherishing the last moments in Kanha.
  • Embark on a 5.5-hour scenic drive to Bandhavgarh, allowing you to witness the landscapes between the two parks.
  • Arrive in Bandhavgarh and complete the check-in procedure at your exquisite 4 star wilderness lodge.
  • Your evening will be spent with a delightful dinner at your lodge, followed by a restful overnight stay.

Accommodation: Kings Lodge / Bandhav Vilas / Jungle Lodge

Meals: Dinner

Day 7-9

Explore Core Zones of Bandhavgarh National Park in Full Day Safari Drives

  • Wake up early and begin with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee as you prepare for the full day drive into the beautiful Bandhavgarh National Park.
  • Full-day safaris are special permission safaris that allow you to stay in the park from sunrise to sunset without any zone restrictions, maximizing your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Head out in an open 4×4 vehicle guided by experienced naturalists into the heart of Bandhavgarh National Park. The early hours offer the best chances to spot wildlife, including the majestic Bengal tigers.
  • 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.
  • During your safari, take a break to relish a packed breakfast provided by the lodge. This delightful meal is enjoyed at a designated spot, typically on the bonnet of the safari vehicle, providing you with the opportunity to enjoy your breakfast amidst the untamed wilderness of Bandhavgarh.
  • The safari continues as you search for tigers and other wildlife, guided by your experienced naturalist.
  • The lodge staff will deliver a freshly packed lunch to the park entrance gate, allowing you to enjoy it during the afternoon safari break within the forest.
  • Following a delightful lunch, continue with your 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 10

Morning Safari in Bandhavgarh, Drive to Jabalpur, Flight to New Delhi

  • Conclude your tiger quest with a final morning safari in Bandhavgarh, bidding farewell to the captivating wilderness of Central India.
  • After the safari, head back to the lodge for check-out, cherishing the final moments in Bandhavgarh.
  • Drive to Jabalpur Airport (175 km / approx. 3.30 hours)
  • Arrive at Jabalpur airport to catch an IndiGo flight departing at 16:00 hrs for your return journey to New Delhi.
  • Your remarkable adventure concludes upon your arrival in New Delhi, signifying 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 Kanha 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: 6 x full day zone free jungle safaris/game drives (3 each) in the core zones of Kanha and Bandhavgarh National Park and 2 x Morning Safari drives in the core zones (1 in each) led by experienced naturalists and guides in a comfortable 4×4 open private jeeps.

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 Kanha 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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Thank you for your interest in our Tiger Essence Journeys tour. Kindly fill out the following details, and we will get back to you promptly with all the necessary information for your unforgettable wildlife adventure.

    safaris

    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.

    Classic Tiger Safari

    Parks Covered: Ranthambore-Bandhavgarh

    Tour Duration: 11 days

    VIEW THIS TOUR

    Tiger Trails of India

    Parks Covered: Kanha-Bandhavgarh

    Tour Duration: 10 days

    VIEW THIS TOUR

    Tigerscape Safaris

    Parks Covered: Ranthambore

    Tour Duration: 6 days

    VIEW THIS TOUR

    Tiger Essence Journeys

    Parks Covered: Bandhavgarh

    Tour Duration: 7 days

    VIEW THIS TOUR

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (Tiger Trails of India)

    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.

    This tour is suitable for solo travelers, families, and groups. We can tailor the experience to accommodate various traveler preferences.

    Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness to comfortably enjoy safari drives.

    We offer carefully selected 4-star premium lodges and resorts that provide a comfortable and immersive experience in the wilderness.

    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.

    Both parks are known for their tiger populations, but you can also expect to spot leopards, elephants, jackals, sloth bears, many species of deer and a diverse range of bird life.

    We use 4×4 open private jeeps (Maruti Suzuki Gypsy) for safari drives to ensure optimal visibility and comfort.

    Yes, our safari drives are guided by experienced wildlife experts who will provide insights into the local flora and fauna.

    We’ve created a comprehensive packing guide on our Safari Planner Page to help you pack efficiently for your exciting adventure.

    While it’s recommended to bring your camera and equipment, we can also provide camera rental options for photography enthusiasts.

    To secure your reservation, we require an initial deposit. The balance can be paid closer to the tour departure date.