A Cultural and Wildlife Odyssey

Itinerary Highlights Duration: 17 Night 18 Days

Destinations: New Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambhore – Agra – New Delhi - Jabalpur- Bandhavgarh – Panna - Khajuraho – Varanasi – New Delhi - Fly Back Home

Key Highlights of the Itinerary

  • 1. New Delhi: Explore Old Delhi’s landmarks such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, and Chandni Chowk.
  • 2. Jaipur: Visit Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Hawa Mahal, and City Palace. Explore Jaipur’s lively markets for unique crafts and souvenirs.
  • 3. Ranthambhore National Park: Enjoy jeep safaris to spot tigers and other wildlife. Experience the park’s biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
  • 4. Agra: Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, the Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • 5. Bandhavgarh National Park: Engage in jeep safaris in one of India’s top tiger reserves. Spot a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and various mammals and birds.
  • 6. Panna National Park: Discover the park’s wildlife through jeep safaris, and explore the Ken River, Panther Cave, and Raneh Falls.
  • 7. Khajuraho: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage temples known for their intricate carvings celebrating beauty, love, and spirituality. Enjoy a Sound and Light show.
  • 8. Varanasi: Experience the sacred Ganges River with a boat ride at sunrise. Visit Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, and explore the spiritual rituals at the ghats.
  • 9. Cultural and Spiritual Experience: Explore India’s history, royal heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual destinations, culminating in New Delhi for your departure.
Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi

On your arrival at New Delhi airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative, who will assist you with the transfer to your hotel. After check-in, the representative will explain all travel documents, ensuring you're well-prepared for the journey ahead. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, recovering from your journey or exploring your hotel facilities.


Overnight at the hotel in New Delhi
Day 2: New Delhi – Jaipur (275 km / 5 hours drive)

After breakfast, embark on a half-day city tour of Old Delhi. Begin by visiting the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Emperor Shah Jahan, showcasing the grandeur of Mughal architecture. Then, head to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, where you can admire its impressive structure and peaceful atmosphere. Continue to Raj Ghat, the solemn memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, where the Father of the Nation was cremated. Finally, enjoy a walking tour of Chandni Chowk, the bustling silver street of Delhi, famous for its vibrant markets, traditional shops, and aromatic street food. This journey through Old Delhi will give you a glimpse into the city's rich history, culture, and vibrant daily life. After lunch, set off on a drive to Jaipur, known as the Pink City for its historic terracotta-hued architecture. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax.


Overnight: Jaipur
Day 3: In Jaipur

This morning, drive 11 km to the outskirts of Jaipur to visit Amber Fort, the ancient capital of the state until 1728. Explore the fort's impressive structures, including the Temple of Kali, Hall of Victory (Jai Mahal), and Jagmandir, which offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal past.

In the afternoon, visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory, an architectural marvel that houses the largest stone astronomical instruments in the world. Continue to the Palace of Winds (Hawa Mahal), known for its intricate façade, before heading to the City Palace and Museum. The museum offers fascinating exhibits, including a textile section showcasing the dresses and costumes of Jaipur’s former Maharajas and Maharanis. Jaipur is renowned for its exquisite arts and crafts, including beautiful carpets, enamelled ornaments, precious stones, and brass works.


In the evening, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jaipur’s bustling markets. Wander through the crowded lanes and byways of the Pink City, where you can haggle and hunt for souvenirs, from colorful fabrics to traditional handicrafts, to take home a piece of Jaipur's vibrant culture.

Overnight: Jaipur
Day 4: Jaipur – Ranthambhore (180 km / 3 hours drive)

After breakfast, drive to Ranthambhore National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch.


In the afternoon, embark on an exclusive jeep safari to explore the park's diverse ecosystems and iconic tiger habitats. Dinner and Overnight at Ranthambhore

Day 5: Ranthambhore

In Ranthambhore, you'll embark on exclusive jeep safaris in the morning and evening to explore the park's rich biodiversity. Ranthambhore is a haven for birdwatchers, home to around 300 species of birds. It's an absolute paradise for those passionate about ornithology. Some of the fascinating resident birds include the Large Cormorant, Painted Spurfowl, Sarus Crane, Bronzed-winged Jacana, Sandpiper, Kingfisher, Nightjar, and Painted Sandgrouse, as well as a variety of winter migrants that travel from their nesting grounds north of the Himalayas. The park offers exceptional opportunities to spot these birds in their natural habitat.


Covering an area of 400 square kilometers, Ranthambhore National Park stretches across rocky hilltops and open valleys nestled between the Aravalli and Vindhya mountain ranges. Dotted with waterholes and fruit-laden trees, the park is named after the Ranthambhore Fort, which rises dramatically above the forest, offering a glimpse into its thousand-year-old history. Famous for its daytime tiger sightings, Ranthambhore is a unique destination where the beauty of nature intersects with the echoes of history. The park is home to Sambar, Cheetal, Chinkara, Nilgai, and Langur. The elusive leopard and majestic tiger are frequently spotted during safaris, providing a great chance for visitors to observe these magnificent creatures in the wild. The park’s landscape is also scattered with ancient ruins, including chatris, cupolas, and old guard posts, evoking the park’s royal past and adding to its mystical
Meals will be served at your lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Overnight will be at the lodge.

Day 6: Ranthambhore – Agra (265 km / 5 hours drive)

After a morning safari, drive to Agra, stopping en route at Fatehpur Sikri:
Fatehpur Sikri, located 40 kilometers southwest of Agra, was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century and served as the Mughal capital from 1571 to 1585 before being abandoned due to water scarcity and strategic reasons. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it showcases a blend of Persian, Indian, and Mughal architectural styles. Notable attractions include the majestic Buland Darwaza, a grand gateway celebrating Akbar's victory, the Jama Masjid housing the tomb of Sufi saint Salim Chishti, the Diwan-i-Khas with its unique central pillar, the open-air Diwan-i-Aam for public audiences, the Panch Mahal offering panoramic views, and the serene Sher Mandal, thought to be Akbar's library. Fatehpur Sikri remains a remarkable testament to Mughal architecture and planning, drawing visitors with its historical significance and architectural splendor. Upon arrival in Agra, check in at your hotel and relax for the evening.
Overnight at the hotel in Agra

Day 7: Agra – New Delhi (220 km / 4 hours drive)

At sunrise, proceed to visit the world-renowned Taj Mahal, a stunning white marble mausoleum built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Completed in 1652, the Taj Mahal is a symbol of eternal love, crafted by skilled artisans from Persia, Turkey, France, and Italy, with the help of over 20,000 laborers who worked tirelessly for 17 years to complete this breath-taking masterpiece.
(Note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.)
After visiting the Taj Mahal, return to your hotel for breakfast. Later, head to the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal empire. This imposing red sandstone fortress is located on the banks of the Yamuna River and is surrounded by formidable 20-meter-high walls and a 12-meter-wide moat. The fort was developed by three successive Mughal emperors—Akbar, Jehangir, and Shah Jahan—and features a fascinating blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Explore its majestic palaces, intricate courtyards, and defensive structures, all of which offer insight into the splendour and history of the Mughal dynasty. The fort remains an enduring symbol of Mughal architectural and cultural excellence.
After lunch, drive back to New Delhi. Check in at your hotel. Overnight at New Delhi

Day 8: New Delhi – Jabalpur – Bandhavgarh (190 km / 4 hours drive)

Fly to Jabalpur in the morning and proceed by road to Bandhavgarh National Park. After check-in and lunch at the lodge, enjoy an afternoon jeep safari to explore this park, renowned for its high density of tigers. Meals and Overnight at Bandhavgarh

Day 9: Bandhavgarh

Enjoy packed Breakfast while Lunch, and Dinner at the lodge, followed by morning and afternoon jeep safaris in Bandhavgarh National Park.

Bandhavgarh is renowned for its high tiger density, making it one of the best places to see these magnificent big cats in the wild. In addition to tigers, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including Leopards, Blue Bulls (Nilgai), Indian Gaur (Bison), Chausingha (Four-Horned Antelope), Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, Sloth Bears, Foxes, Jackals, and Wild Dogs. The park harbors over 22 species of mammals and approximately 250 bird species, providing ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Other notable animals found in Bandhavgarh include the Ratel, Porcupine, Small Indian Civet, Palm Squirrel, Lesser Bandicoot Rat, Jungle Cat, and the elusive Hyenas. For reptile lovers, the park boasts a diverse range, such as Cobras, Kraits, Vipers, Ratsnakes, Pythons, Monitor Lizards, and Turtles.


Bandhavgarh is also home to two species of primates, the Rhesus Macaque and the Hanuman Langur, which can be seen throughout the park, adding to the rich diversity of this unique ecosystem.
Overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 10: Bandhavgarh

Enjoy packed Breakfast during the safari, Lunch, and Dinner at the lodge, followed by morning and afternoon jeep safaris in Bandhavgarh National Park.

Bandhavgarh has been an important center of human activity and settlement for over 2000 years. The park holds historical significance, with references to it found in ancient texts like the Narad-Panch Ratra and the Shiva Purana. The earliest evidence of habitation within the park can be traced to caves carved into the sandstone hills north of the fort, several of which contain Brahmi inscriptions dating back to the 1st century B.C. The region has been ruled by several dynasties, including the Maghas in the 1st century A.D. and the Vakatakas in the 3rd century A.D. Over time, Bandhavgarh came under the control of various rulers, notably the Chandela Kings, who left their mark on the region.

By the time of British rule, Bandhavgarh had become increasingly deserted, with the surrounding forests taking over the area. It was eventually designated as a royal hunting reserve. After India's independence, the land remained under the personal ownership of the Maharaja until it was handed over to the state in 1968, leading to the establishment of the Bandhavgarh National Park. With the creation of the park, poaching and hunting were curbed, allowing wildlife populations to thrive. The tiger population, in particular, flourished, and an extension in 1986 provided the necessary forest space to support the growing number of these majestic creatures.

Overnight at the lodge.
Day 11: Bandhavgarh – Panna (190 km / 4-5 hours drive)

After a morning safari, drive to Panna National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax. Meals and Overnight: Panna

Day 12: Panna National Park

Experience morning and evening jeep safaris to discover Panna’s diverse wildlife. Explore: Panna National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is a hidden wildlife gem renowned for its rich biodiversity and serene landscapes. Spanning over 542 square kilometers, it is home to diverse flora and fauna, with the Ken River flowing through its heart. As part of the Panna Tiger Reserve, the park plays a crucial role in tiger conservation, offering excellent opportunities for sightings of these majestic animals, along with leopards, wild boars, sloth bears, and various deer species like Chital, Sambar, and the unique four-horned Chousingha. The park also houses a variety of mammals such as wild dogs, jackals, foxes, and hyenas, and is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 species, including painted storks, hornbills, and waterfowl. Key attractions include the serene Ken River, which is home to gharials and other aquatic wildlife, Panther Cave with ancient cave paintings, and the picturesque Raneh Falls. The park offers exciting morning and evening jeep safaris, providing chances to spot wildlife in the cool early hours or as the sun sets, creating a stunning backdrop for sightings of tigers, leopards, and antelope species.


Meals and Overnight: Panna
Day 13: Panna National Park

On your second day in Panna National Park, you'll have the opportunity to delve deeper into the park's scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. Start your day with an early morning jeep safari, when the park is at its most peaceful and the wildlife is most active. As you traverse the park’s varied terrain—ranging from dense forests and grasslands to rocky hills and the tranquil Ken River—you’ll have the chance to spot tigers, leopards, and other predators as they roam in search of prey. The misty morning air adds a magical touch to the surroundings, enhancing the chances of spotting elusive wildlife like wild boars, sloth bears, and the unique four-horned antelope, the Chousingha.

During the safari, the park’s rich biodiversity will unfold before you, with vibrant birdlife soaring above the trees. Panna is home to over 200 species of birds, including eagles, hornbills, and the striking painted storks. The Ken River, which winds its way through the park, offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, as it attracts a variety of water birds, along with the critically endangered gharial crocodiles that bask along the riverbanks.

The park's landscape is also dotted with picturesque waterfalls, with Raneh Falls being one of the most breathtaking sights. During the monsoon season, the falls come to life, cascading dramatically into the narrow gorge below. The sight of the waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs, is a highlight for any visitor to Panna.

In the afternoon, you’ll embark on another jeep safari, offering a different perspective of the park as the sun begins to set. The cool evening temperatures make it an ideal time to observe wildlife, with tigers, leopards, and antelope species like the Nilgai (blue bull) often venturing into the open. As dusk falls, the park takes on a tranquil, almost mystical ambiance, making the evening safari an unforgettable experience.

Throughout your day, the combination of thrilling wildlife sightings, stunning landscapes, and historical sites like the ancient cave paintings at Panther Cave will leave you with lasting memories of Panna’s natural beauty and conservation
efforts.Meals and Overnight: Panna

Day 14: Panna – Khajuraho (40 km / 45 min drive)

After a morning safari, drive to Khajuraho, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage temples. Khajuraho, discovered by chance, stands as one of India’s most remarkable tourist destinations. It is home to the largest collection of medieval temples, renowned for their intricate sculptures that celebrate beauty, love, and the creative arts with unparalleled grace and detail. Once the religious capital of the Chandela Rajputs, these temples date back to 950-1050 AD. The temple complex is enclosed by a wall with eight gates, each flanked by two golden palm trees, and originally consisted of over 80 temples, of which 22 have been exceptionally well-preserved.


The temples at Khajuraho are unique in their celebration of Hindu religious thought, capturing the full range of spiritual and earthly experiences. They highlight two philosophical paths: ‘Yoga,’ the union of the self with the divine, and ‘Bhoga,’ the path to God through physical pleasure. The temples, many of which focus on themes of love and physicality, stand as a testament to this distinctive philosophy. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Khajuraho is a must-visit destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the sacred and sensual in stone. The temples serve as India’s unique gift to the world, showcasing life in its many forms and moods.
In the evening, enjoy a captivating Sound and Light show that brings the history and grandeur of Khajuraho to life. Overnight at your hotel in Khajuraho.

Day 15: Khajuraho – Varanasi (By flight)

After breakfast, embark on a visit to the Eastern and Southern groups of temples, each rich in history and architectural splendor. Begin with the Eastern group, home to the magnificent Parasvanath Temple, the largest Jain temple in the region. Known for its stunning carvings, the temple offers a detailed depiction of everyday life, showcasing scenes of artisans at work, royal processions, and elegant figures engaged in various activities. These intricate sculptures highlight the vibrant culture and craftsmanship of the time.
Next, explore the Southern group of temples, starting with the Chaturbhuj Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Known for its impressive architecture, the temple features a towering central spire and beautifully detailed carvings, all set in a serene atmosphere. You’ll also visit the iconic Kandariya Mahadev Temple, one of the most celebrated temples at Khajuraho, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This grand temple is a masterpiece of medieval Indian architecture, with an intricately sculpted exterior, rich in symbolism, and featuring detailed depictions of gods, goddesses, and celestial beings. The temple's towering spire represents Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. These temples, with their divine grandeur and rich sculptural narratives, offer a deeper understanding of the spiritual and cultural significance of Khajuraho's heritage In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival in Varanasi, you will be met and assisted before being transferred to your hotel.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi and Benaras, is one of India’s most sacred cities and an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Revered as one of the world's oldest living cities, Varanasi has been a hub of learning, culture, and spiritual significance for over 2,000 years.
In the evening, take a walk along the ghats (the riverbanks) of the Ganga River, where you’ll witness the rich tapestry of life that defines the city. As the sun sets, observe the fascinating rituals performed on the banks of the river—devotees take ritual baths in the holy water, perform prayers, and offer flowers and incense. Boats float downstream, carrying goods, offerings, and devotees, while others are engaged in sacred ceremonies along the river.
The ghats are a lively mix of spirituality and daily life, with some people immersed in prayer and chanting hymns, others engaged in business, and still more participating in unique activities such as hair-cutting, massaging, or even ear-cleaning! Visit Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most revered ghats, where you can witness cremation ceremonies performed with deep reverence and ancient rituals. Hindus believe that departing from Varanasi on life’s final journey ensures the soul's passage to heaven and a favourable reincarnation.
Overnight in Varanasi.

Day 16: Varanasi

Early morning, embark on a peaceful boat ride along the Ganges, India's holiest river. The sight of the sunrise over the river is truly mesmerizing, with pilgrims immersed in the water, offering prayers to the rising sun. As you glide through the calm waters, you will also see the iconic Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Shiva, with its golden spires towering above the city. After the boat ride, return to your hotel for breakfast.
Later, visit Sarnath, located 13 kilometers northeast of Varanasi, at the confluence of the Ganges and Gomati rivers. This sacred site is where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon, marking the birth of the Buddhist Sangha. You will also visit the Deer Park, where this pivotal event took place. In addition, explore Singhpur, a village nearby, the birthplace of Shreyansanath, the eleventh Tirthankara of Jainism, and its dedicated temple.
Return to your hotel in Varanasi for the night stay

Day 17: Varanasi – New Delhi (By flight)

Spend the morning at leisure before flying to New Delhi. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy your final evening in India.
Overnight: New Delhi

Day 18: New Delhi – Departure

Enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring to the airport for your flight home. Depart with memories of India’s vibrant culture, wildlife, and history.

End of Services


Note: The driving hours given above from one city to another are based on the normal conditions of the roads and may vary. Any break for Food / Tea / Toilets / Sightseeing on the way will take extra time than the above given hours. Bandhavgarh and Panna National parks are closed every Wednesday for afternoon jeep safari.

The above cost includes:
  • 1. Accommodation in New Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Khajuraho and Varanasi on bed and breakfast basis
  • 2. Accommodation in Ranthambhore, Bandhavgarh and Panna on room, all meals and safari basis
  • 3. Your entrance fee and guide charges in Ranthambhore, Bandhavgarh and Panna
  • 4. 04 exclusive jeep safaris will be provided in Ranthambhore
  • 5. 06 exclusive jeep safaris will be provided in Bandhavgarh
  • 6. 05 exclusive jeep safaris will be provided in Panna
  • 7. Guide and Car charges for exclusive sightseeing in Jaipur, Agra, Khajuraho and Varanasi in the city and also Sarnath
  • 8. Monument entrance fee in Jaipur, Agra Khajuraho and Varanasi
  • 9. Boat ride in Varanasi twice during the stay (sunrise ride early morning and during the evening Ganges worship ceremony.
  • 10. Sound and light show in Khajuraho
  • 11. Assistance at airport and hotels
  • 12. All land transfers in air-conditioned Toyota Innova car
  • 13. All currently applicable taxes
However, the above cost does not include:
  • 1. Still / video camera fee in the monuments and national parks. As on date still and video cameras are free in Bandhavgarh and Panna.
  • 2. Expenses of personal nature like smokes, liquor, laundry and telephone calls
  • 3. International airfare and domestic
  • 4. Travel insurance
  • 5. Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
  • 6. Please note that any changes in entrance fees or government taxes will be payable extra and the same will be advised to you if applicable
Please Note:
  • 1. In case the hotel envisaged or normal category of rooms are waitlisted / sold out, alternate hotels/category will be provided & we will keep you informed on the supplement / reduction involved.
  • 2. Please note hotel check-in and check-out time is 1200 hrs.
  • 3. Safaris in Bandhavgarh and Panna will be provided in a 4X4 Jeep
  • 4. Safari zone is subject to forest permissions
  • 5. Bandhavgarh and Panna national parks are closed for afternoon jeep safari every Wednesday.