Just Tigers Tour in India
11 Nights / 12 Days
Trip Highlights & Overview
Just Tigers Tour in India
- Outline Itinerary
- Day 01: Arrive New Delhi (by flight)
- Day 02: New Delhi – Nagpur – Pench (Flight + 100 kms/2 hrs. drive)
- Day 03 & 04 : In Pench National Park
- Day 05 : Pench – Kanha (by surface 210 kms /4-5 hrs drive)
- Day 06 & 07 : In Kanha National Park
- Day 08 : Kanha – Bandhavgarh (by surface 280 kms/6-hour drive)
- Day 09 & 10 : In Bandhavgarh National Park
- Day 11 : Bandhavgarh – Jabalpur – New Delhi (200 kms/4 hrs. drive + flight)
- Day 12 : New Delhi - Fly Back Home
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Detailed Itinerary
Just Tigers Tour in India
Day 01 : Arrive New Delhi (by flight)
Day 02 : New Delhi – Nagpur – Pench (Flight + 100 kms/2 hrs. drive)
Pench National Park served as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. Despite never setting foot in this locale, legend has it that the Pench Tiger Reserve and its environs represent the actual backdrop for Kipling’s renowned work. The character of Mowgli was conceived from Sir William Henry Sliman’s pamphlet, “An Account of Wolves Nurturing Children in their Dens.”
In 1831, a child, raised by wolves near Seoni in the village of Satbavadi, was reported. The settings described in The Jungle Book, such as the Vainganga River, the valley where Sher Khan met his demise, and the mountain ranges of Kannivara and Sivani, all correspond to actual locations in the Seoni district.
The forested expanses of the Pench Tiger Reserve boast a storied past, chronicled in historical texts like the Ain-i-Akbari, R.A. Strenthal’s “Sivni, Camp Life in the Satpura,” James Forsyth’s “High Lands of Central India,” and A.A. Dunbar Brander’s “Wild Animals of Central India.” The Pench Tiger Reserve earned the prestigious “Best Maintained Tourist-Friendly National Park” Award during the National Tourism Prize of 2006-07.
After dinner, confer with the staff regarding the schedule for the morning safari. If necessary, you may request a wake-up call.
Day 03: In Pench National Park
Rise and prepare for your morning safari, tea and coffee will be served at the lodge. Your safari vehicle will carry breakfast, which will be provided within the reserve.
The crisp morning breeze in the reserve brings a sense of freshness. Be on the lookout for the king of the jungle, who becomes more active at both dusk and dawn. However, don’t forget to spot the other inhabitants of the forest, as the jungle is particularly active in the morning. Birds and other animals become lively with the first rays of the sun. In the Pench Tiger Reserve, a network of seasonal streams and nullahs intricately traverses the region. By the end of April, the Pench River typically dries up, leaving behind several pools, locally referred to as dohs, which serve as crucial waterholes for the wildlife. While most water sources cease during the summer, a few perennial springs persist in the area.
Notably, the Pench Reservoir, located at the heart of the reserve, serves as the primary water source during the scorching summer months. The primary forest type within the Pench Tiger Reserve is the Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest, predominantly characterized by Teak as the major tree species, accompanied by various other flora. Return to the lodge, and after lunch, take some time to relax before gearing up for your next afternoon safari in the park. Dinner and overnight in the lodge.
Day 04 : In Pench National Park
The Pench Tiger Reserve stands out among the tiger reserves in Central India due to its notable high density of ungulates, which has consequently contributed to a thriving population of tigers. This flourishing ungulate population significantly enhances the likelihood of encountering a tiger during a tiger safari in India.
Pench is home to a diverse array of mammals commonly found in Central Indian forests, encompassing iconic species such as the Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Cheetal, Sambar, Barking Deer, Blue Bull (Nilgai), Wild Boar, Gaur, Jungle Cat, Leopard Cat, Striped Hyaena, and Dhole. Additionally, the Freshwater Crocodile can be found inhabiting the reservoir within the reserve’s confines.
The avian diversity in Pench is equally impressive, with a recorded count of 325 bird species within the reserve. The expansive Pench Reservoir, covering an area of 5,000 hectares, serves as a significant attraction for migratory waterfowl. The presence of dead trees scattered throughout the reservoir provides ideal nesting sites for various bird species, including cormorants, egrets, herons, and storks. Breeding colonies of birds like the Asian Woollyneck, Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Black-headed Ibis, and Purple Heron thrive around the reservoir, making it an important habitat for these species.
Day 05 : Pench – Kanha (by surface 210 kms /4-5 hrs drive)
After your morning safari and lunch, it’s time to bid farewell to these beautiful forests and embark on a drive towards the next destination, either with a packed lunch or following lunch drive to Kanha national park 210 kms/ 4-5-hour drive. Once you reach your destination, the lodge team will warmly welcome you and assist with the check-in process.
A team member will provide an orientation about both the lodge and the Tiger Reserve. This reserve underwent a transformation around thirty years ago when villages were relocated from its central section, resulting in the creation of expansive grasslands. What used to be a children’s playground has now become a prime feeding ground for herbivores. An impressive conservation achievement by the Reserve management team involves the successful reintroduction of the Hard Ground Barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelli branderi) from nearly extinct numbers, boosting the current population to over 800 individuals.
Dinner will be served at a distinctive venue, offering you a diverse dining experience in the wild. Spend the night at the lodge in Kanha Tiger Reserve, surrounded by the enchanting sounds of the wilderness.
Day 06 : In Kanha National Park
Begin your day with an early start, sipping on coffee or tea accompanied by cookies or fruits, and venture out for a morning safari before the sun graces the horizon. At the reserve gate, your naturalist will recommend an early departure from the lodge, ensuring you are among the first few vehicles to enter the reserve, maximizing your chances of encountering Tigers and other wildlife.
During the safari, if there is limited movement on the trail, the vehicle will pause, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sounds of the forest. This is when the forest reveals its story, with birds such as jungle babblers, parakeets, racket tailed drongo, grey francolin, and peacocks calling from various directions. Alarm calls from herbivores like spotted deer, sambar, and Barasingha (Swamp Deer) may lead you to predators in the vicinity. Your naturalist will skillfully help you identify different animal calls. After nearly 4 hours of safari, return to the lodge, where the team awaits with wet towels and refreshing drinks to welcome your back. Reflect on your moments within the reserve.
Following lunch, prepare for the afternoon safari. As you enter the reserve, keep an eye out for signs and tracks, and visit waterholes where animals gather due to the ease of water access in the heat of the day. Return from the safari by sunset. In the evening, gather to relish the moments spent within the reserve. Your naturalist will share insights into animal behavior and recount stories that may not have been conveyed earlier. Cherish the magic of the wilderness as you conclude your day. Dinner and overnight will be at the lodge in Kanha.
Day 07: In Kanha National Park
Embark on your day with an early start before sunrise, setting out for a safari within the Tiger Reserve. As you navigate through the heart of the forest, the naturalist will provide a packed breakfast at a scenic point in the open, atop a jeep bonnet. After enjoying your breakfast, continue the exploration, searching for wildlife amidst the lush surroundings.
Kanha boasts a rich diversity of approximately 35 mammal species, including key inhabitants like the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, dhole, sloth bear, Bengal fox, Indian jackal, and more. The hardground Barasingha, a subspecies found only in this reserve is adapted to marshy habitats, thrives in the reserve’s grasslands, while the gaur finds refuge around waterholes. In the Kanha Meadows zone, blackbucks are concentrated, adding to the reserve’s diverse mammalian population.
After your morning safari, enjoy a hearty lunch and a well-deserved rest before setting out once again to explore the wilderness on your afternoon safari.
The avian residents of Kanha add to its allure, with more than 300 different bird species gracing the reserve. Notable sightings include the black ibis, Asian green bee-eater, cattle egret, blossom-headed parakeet, Indian pond heron, drongo, common teal, crested serpent eagle, Indian roller, lesser adjutant, little grebe, lesser whistling teal, minivet, Malabar pied hornbill, woodpeckers, pigeons, paradise flycatcher, and many more. Immerse yourself in the vibrant birdlife that paints the skies of Kanha. Dinner and overnight at the lodge in Kanha Tiger Reserve.
Day 08 : Kanha – Bandhavgarh (by surface 280 kms/6-hour drive)
After your morning safari and lunch, drive to Bandhavgarh National Park, 280kms, 6-hour drive. Use this opportunity to deepen your understanding of the intricate forest ecosystem. Gain further insights into the jungle and expand your knowledge about the diverse flora and fauna that characterize this forest in central India.
On arrival in Bandhavgarh, check-in to the lodge. Evening leisure time, dinner and overnight stay at the lodge in Bandhavgarh.
Day 09 : In Bandhavgarh National Park
Commence your day early, gearing up for the safari to secure a position among the first few vehicles in the queue. Bandhavgarh is renowned for its highest number of Tiger sightings, and your experienced naturalist, armed with extensive knowledge, will guide you through the reserve. Expect to gain valuable insights into animal behavior and be regaled with captivating stories about the diverse creatures encountered during your journey.
Nestled in the Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve spans a core area of 716 square kilometers and a buffer area of approximately 820 square kilometers. The reserve’s diverse topography encompasses high ridges, undulating terrain, lush forests, and open meadows. Explore the renowned Chakradhara and Rajhbhera meadows in the Tala Zone, where herds of deer peacefully graze. Upon completing the morning jeep safari, return to the lodge, where the team will welcome you back with wet towels and refreshing drinks.
After a satisfying lunch, embark on another jeep safari within the Tiger Reserve. Once serving as the hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Rewa, the reserve features irregular topography, with rocky hill ranges running roughly east to west, interspersed with green wetlands and woodland valleys.
Bandhavgarh’s varied vegetation, ranging from tall grasslands to dense Sal forests and bamboo thickets, provides an ideal habitat for a diverse array of animals and birds. The reserve offers ample opportunities to witness the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, as well as elusive creatures like the Leopard and Sloth Bear, thanks to its varied topography.
As the day ends, return to the lodge at sunset. Dinner will be served in a different venue, enhancing your experience of being immersed in the ambiance of Jungle lodges. Enjoy a delightful dinner and spend the night at the lodge in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, ready for more thrilling adventures in the heart of tiger country.
Day 10 : In Bandhavgarh National Park
Awaken to the morning serenity and gather in the common area to meet your naturalist. Enjoy a cup of morning coffee or tea with cookies, engaging in discussions about the plan for the upcoming safari. Head out for the safari with a packed breakfast, ready to explore the three distinct core zones of Bandhavgarh: Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli. Since 2019, a herd of elephants has made Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve their home, adding to the allure of this wildlife haven.
The Tala zone, the oldest in Bandhavgarh, houses the iconic fort and the revered figure of Vishnu, Shesh Shaiya, dating back to the 10th century. The Charan Ganga River, a lifeline for the reserve, originates in Shesh Shaiya, and the area features additional caves known as Bari Gufa from the tenth century. Magadhi, distinguished by its grasslands and mixed dense forest cover, boasts various watering holes like Sukhi Patiha, Dabhadhole, Charkpwaha, and Murdhawa. It has become a prime location for tiger sightings in recent years. The Khitauli zone, characterized by a dry-deciduous forest, has gained prominence as a hotspot for Tiger sightings. Elephants are frequently spotted here, drawn by the abundant bamboo cover providing ample food.
In the afternoon, embark on another jeep safari within the Tiger Reserve. If you’ve already witnessed Tigers, you can choose to revel in the picturesque landscape of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Alternatively, if your desire is to see more Tigers, your naturalist will tailor the safari accordingly. Return to the lodge after the safari, arriving by sunset. Spend the evening sharing and reliving safari experiences and highlights with the naturalist. The lodge staff, with their proximity to wildlife, also have captivating stories to share about their encounters with the wild. Engage in the camaraderie of tales, making your stay in the heart of nature even more memorable. Enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the captivating ambiance of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.
Day 11 : Bandhavgarh – Jabalpur – New Delhi (200 kms/4 hrs. drive + flight)
Day 12 : New Delhi Fly back home
Tour Costing (valid till 30th June 2026)
Land cost for the above itinerary based on 1 or 2 paying persons:
01 PAX
02 PAX
Trip Inclusions
- Accommodation in New Delhi on bed and breakfast basis
- Accommodation in Pench, Kanha & Bandhavgarh on room, all meals & exclusive safari basis
- Your entrance fee and guide charges in Pench, Kanha & Bandhavgarh
- 06 Exclusive jeep safaris in Pench in a jeep with 03 other co-traveler
- 05 Exclusive jeep safaris in Kanha in a jeep with 03 other co-traveler
- 04 Exclusive jeep safaris in Bandhavgarh in a jeep with 03 other co-traveler
- All land transfers in air-conditioned in 09-seater Tempo traveler & Toyota Innova Crysta for individual transfers
- All currently applicable taxes
Trip Exclusions
- Still / video camera fee in the monuments and national parks. As on date, there is no camera fee in either of the parks in the program.
- Expenses of personal nature like smokes, liquor, laundry, and telephone calls
- International airfare and domestic
- Travel insurance
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
- 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.
Extend your stay
Extend your stay in India by choosing any one of the tours below. It could be a mix of wildlife and culture or focused on special interest activities such as food tours in Old Delhi, cycling through the historic remnants of the capital city or even beach holidays toward the end of the tour.
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Just Tigers Tour in India
