Journey to India for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you lasting memories. India is one of the most vibrant countries in the world. This trip will deliver you directly to the heart of India. As you soak up India’s culture, explore its magnificent past, and bask in its thriving present. The alluring aroma of spices will enlighten your senses as you stroll between market stalls with artisans, vendors, and locals all engaging in the unchoreographed dance of trade. Divulge in the unforgettable tastes of culinary delights such as samosa, kachori, kulfi, and lassi. Let yourself be adopted by the Indian people, but don’t forget the natural world. Explore the local wildlife that includes tigers, sloth bears, hyenas, and flying squirrels from the comfort and safety of a 4×4 jeep crawling its way under a towering canopy of teak and arjuna trees. Witness the sunrise while canoeing the glassy waters of the Pench River. India seems to have everything from incredible culture to impressive monuments, like theTaj Mahal, authentic cuisine, and some of the world’s most majestic wildlife. Immerse yourself in the brilliant culture as you wander through Old Delhi’s markets, witness tigers moving silently through the jungle, and take a ride in rickshaws surrounded by locals.
View the ancient mountain fortresses surrounding Maharaja Jai Singh II’s “Pink City” and then relax in royal luxury in some of the finest accommodations in India
Immerse yourself in India’s culture and the natural world with naturalist and local guides assisting you in your journey
Discover palaces like the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, India Gate, and Humayun’s Tomb
Explore Panchmarchi Biosphere Reserve’s dense teak and sal forests, high sandstone mountains, waterfalls, and narrow gorges
Track a diverse array of wildlife including leopards, tigers, sloth bears, Indian Gaurs, sambhars, chitals, nilgais, barking deers, blackbucks, languors, hyenas, and more
A few more reasons why you've gotta go:
01
The sense of both grand history, as well as a vibrant future, are equally evident whether in a modern city of steel and glass skyscrapers or a rural village.
02
Track reclusive tigers and other wildlife by jeep for an intimate viewing experience.
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Explore ancient mountain fortresses surrounding Maharaja Jai Singh II’s “Pink City.”
On your arrival at the international airport in Delhi and after clearing customs & immigration, our representative will receive and escort you to your hotel. Delhi, the capital of India, is a city that offers a glimpse of both ancient and modern day India. It is the third largest city in India and one of the fastest growing in Asia. This city is rich in culture, always changing with time but never hiding its splendid past. The various ancient ruins seen in the city are silent witnesses to its magnificent history.
About Taj Ambassador
The glamorous Taj Ambassador hotel is situated in the center of New Delhi’s shopping district, offering an incredible location for those hoping to explore one of India’s most iconic cities. With beautiful cultural décor, exquisite dining options, and spa services galore, the Taj Ambassador will be the perfect place to retire after an exciting day of adventure.
After breakfast proceed for sightseeing of the Walled city called Old Delhi. As the city wakes up, transport back to times of grandeur and subsequent ruin during the Mughal Empire. Colorful, vibrant, noisy and chaotic are words that best describe what many call Old Delhi, which was built by the mighty Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Walk or ride in a rickshaw through the streets and markets of this seventeenth century imperial capital city of the Mughal empire savoring the fragrances of the boisterous spice markets and eyeing the glittering gems of India’s largest jewelry shops. In the afternoon, sightsee with your guide around New Delhi, which actually features more historical sites than Old Delhi. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, drive along the ceremonial avenue, Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House and the President’s Residence before ending with a drive through the Diplomatic Enclave.
After breakfast, we spend the majority of the day driving southwest to Jaipur (6-7 hours transfer). Jaipur, the capital city of the state of Rajasthan, also known as “Pink City” owes its name, foundation and planning to the great warrior astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city sits on a dry lake bed in a wild and somewhat arid landscape, surrounded by barren hills surmounted by fortresses and crenellated walls. Check into the hotel and relax with the rest of your day at your leisure
About Samode Haveli
Samode Haveli is a classical Indian mansion fully equipped with gorgeous décor, rich history, and some of the most incredible views in all of India. You’ll stay alongside genuine royalty; this palace was built 175 years ago by the rulers of Samode, and is still occupied by their direct descendants.
Take an excursion by jeep to Amber Fort, a classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace built in the sixteenth century. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles find their ultimate expression. Late afternoon take a walk around Jaipur to learn more about the dazzling heritage of traditional India. Since its foundation in 1727, the royal family and nobles of Jaipur had been patronizing various craftsmen and artisans throughout Pink City. Many of these traditions continue to this day, making the modern day Jaipur the perfect destination to witness India’s rich art and craft. Mingle and talk with the locals while sampling some of the region’s culinary delights, such as Samosa Kachori, Kulfi and Lassi. Observe local artisans like silversmiths and bangle makers at work. Explore Jaipur like the locals do and learn about the rich traditions of this captivating city with your knowledgeable guide.
After a hearty breakfast, we drive to Agra (5 hour transfer). After some time to relax at your hotel, we head to the Taj Mahal at sunset. Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder as it is most always the soul raison-d’être for every person’s visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also famous particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen.
About ITC Mughal
Evoking the majesty of the nearby Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal’s timeless gardens, opulent décor, and unrivaled service guarantee an indelible stay. An enchanting setting, gracious furnishings, and the latest in modern conveniences and amenities distinguish the guest rooms. Kaya Kalp – The Royal Spa is the country’s largest spa at over 99,000 square feet.
Enjoy an early breakfast before transferring to Agra’s railway station to board a train to Bhopal. Sit back and relax during your train ride of approximately 6 hours. You’ll be picked up at Bhopal Railway Station upon arrival and transferred to your hotel where you may enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
About Jehan Numa Retreat
Sprung up from the earth as it were, at the edge of a green forest – the Van Vihar National Park – this snug spa and resort has been created in the tradition of a culture and life that is nourished by its relationship with nature. And in turn, it nourishes guests and relaxes them.
Today we drive to Satpura National Park (4 hour transfer). The 524 square kilometer park is the core area of the Panchmarchi Biosphere Reserve that includes Bori wildlife sanctuary to its southwest and Pachmarhi wildlife sanctuary to its northeast. The park features tall sandstone mountains, narrow gorges, ravines, waterfalls, streams and dense forests near the Mahadev hills in the Pachmarhi plateau. The area boasts of two unique species of tree – the sal and the teak – alongside wide varieties of ferns, mango trees, butterflies and birds. This afternoon, take a nature walk in the park with your naturalist guide, tracking tigers, lions, sloth bear and other resident animals when the opportunity arises.
About Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge is an exquisitely designed conservation and wildlife focused lodge located close to the Saptura National Park and Tiger Reserve. It features 12 luxury cottages encompassing three distinct structural designs, a cozy central meeting place called the Gol Ghar and a jungle pool located along its seasonal nullah.
Indulge yourself in morning and afternoon game drives. Apart from tigers, this expanse of dry deciduous forest is home to a number of species of animals: leopards, wild dogs, sloth bear, Indian gaur, sambhar, wild boar, chital, nilgai, barking deer, black buck, and langoor are amongst the widely viewed animals here. The forest’s true wilderness and limited exposure to human pressure have enabled it to host some rare Indian fauna including the Hyena, the Flying Squirrel and the porcupine. Satpura Tiger Reserve is also a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Before breakfast, we enjoy a relaxed canoe excursion at sunrise. The calmness of the water, interrupted occasionally by the honking of bar headed geese or the deafening screeches of a black ibis while observing grazing herbivores on the shore is truly a treat! After breakfast back at the lodge, we transfer to Pench National Park (5 hour transfer) where we’ll check into our wilderness camp, situated in the village of Jamtara and get settled in to our accommodation.
About Jamtara Wilderness Camp
Situated in the Village of Jamtara, near Pench National Park, Jamtara Wilderness Camp is a 10 luxury tented property in the heart of rural Pench. Surrounded by tall Arjuna Trees and an ancient Banyan rooted on a dry riverbed, each tented room overlooks the forest which sets the perfect background to this jungle experience.
For the next couple days, we explore Pench National Park by 4×4 Jeep, accompanied by a resident naturalist and forest park guide. Pench is nestled in the lower southern reaches of the Satpura hills and is named after the Pench River, meandering through the park from north to south. Over 1,200 species of plants have been recorded from the area including several rare and endangered plants as well as plants of ethno-botanical importance.
Enjoy another day exploring Pench National Park. The park has always been rich in wildlife. The varied habitat heterogeneity favors high population of Chital and Sambar. Pench tiger reserve has the highest density of herbivores in India and also has a large diversity of wildlife, including Leopard, Tiger, Jungle Cat, Dhole (Wild Dog), Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Mongoose and Gaur.
After breakfast in camp, drive to Nagpur airport (3 hour transfer) in time for your flight to Delhi. You’ll be picked up from the Delhi Airport and transferred to an airport hotel where you can relax until your transfer back to Delhi Airport for your international flight home.
*Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate by Austin Adventures.
An Austin Adventures representative will meet you upon arrival at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Upon clearing customs, transportation to Taj Ambassador in New Delhi will be provided. On Day 12 your guide will drive you to Nagpur airport (3 hour transfer) in time for your domestic flight to Delhi. You will have access to an airport hotel room until it’s time to check-in three hours prior for your international flight from Delhi to home.
Activities
Walking: Sightseeing walks in the city and national parks up to 2.5 hours per walk. Sometimes multiple walks are done in a day.
Canoeing: Sit back and relax as you are paddled along a section of calm water in Satpura National Park.
Safari: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as your naturalist guide educates you on the area’s wildlife while walking or riding by 4WD Jeep.
Cultural Discoveries
Explore Old Delhi, where jewelers weigh gold on dusty scales and laborers haul sacks of spices, to modern Delhi, with its colonial-era parliament buildings and penchant for high tea. Delhi is a city that has been repeatedly ravaged and reborn, with vestiges of lost empires in almost every neighborhood. There’s so much to experience in Delhi, it’s like a country in itself! Take in Jaipur’s colorful, chaotic streets as they ebb and flow with a heady mix of old and new. Careening buses dodge dawdling camels, leisurely cycle-rickshaws frustrate swarms of motorbikes, and everywhere buzzing auto rickshaws watch for easy prey. In the midst of the mayhem, the splendors of Jaipur’s majestic past are islands of relative calm evoking a different pace and another world. The magical allure of the Taj Mahal draws tourists to Agra like moths to a wondrous flame. And despite the hype, it’s every bit as good as you’ve heard! Walk and drive through Satpura National Park where you’re sure to get plenty of photos of the striking terrain, varying from extremely rugged hills and mountains to dense Sal and mixed forests to narrow water filled gorges. Keep a keen eye out for the wildlife of Pench National Park, which is especially famous for large herds of Gaur (Indian Bison), Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, Wild Dog and Wild Pig. Come discover India with the experts in adventure travel!
Meals
The hallmark of an Austin Adventures vacation is our exceptional dining. Meals are included as indicated by itinerary. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). Alcoholic beverages and related gratuities are not included in the trip price.
Pre-departure Information
After receiving your reservation and deposit, we’ll send you a pre-trip planner with general information about the area you’ll be visiting, a packing list, exercise guidelines, a guest information questionnaire and a liability release agreement for you to sign and return within 10 days.
What's Included
Included in the Trip Price
Double occupancy rooms with private baths.
Meals as mentioned in itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
Fully trained, professional guide and knowledgeable local partners.
Any necessary equipment – all safe and well maintained.
Land transportation during the trip.
Austin Adventures T-shirt, water bottle, luggage tags and luggage service.
Pre-departure and packing information.
Entrance fees to the monuments and parks.
Tipping at hotels/lodges, restaurants, porters, safari guide/drivers, local guides, resident naturalist (for groups of 6 guests or more).
Not Included in the Trip Price
Gratuities to lead tour guide.
Government service tax of 9%.
Alcoholic beverages and related gratuities.
Meals not listed in detailed itinerary.
Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses.
Domestic and international flights, airport taxes and insurance fees.
All types of personal insurance.
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, curios, etc.
View the "Wow Factor" Included in Each Austin Adventure
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
1Easy (1)
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
2Moderately Easy (2)
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
3Moderate (3)
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
4Moderate to Challenging (4)
Activity levels are subjective depending on your general level of fitness and your experience; however, all of our trips are self-paced.
5Challenging (5)
Adventure Travel Expert
Dan Austin
Not sure what to expect when you get your boots on the ground—or bike on the road or paddle in the water—in that dream destination? Dan Austin would love to tell you. More than likely, he’s been there, done that, and then some. The founder and president of Austin Adventures, Dan is a boots-on-the-ground influencer in the company, helping guests, ensuring guides lead the way he would, and curating new trips by personally experiencing and evaluating every detail. While always happy to add to his list of 64 countries and counting, Dan most highly values helping guests experience their adventure in the most inspiring and energizing way possible.
