Asia and Pacific

India | Into the Wilds of India: Tigers and Beyond

Activity Level:
EASY-MODERATE
Duration:
14 Days
Price:
From $7,980
Interests:
Natural History
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Spice vendor
Jama Masjid Mosque
Kanha National Park
Tiger in Kanha National Park
Sloth bear
Sambar deer
Gray langur monkeys
Barasingha deer
Indian bison
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Organize This Trip

About this trip

Often overlooked in favor of its cultural treasures, India’s resplendent natural heritage is also a vital part of the country’s identity. Go deeper into the heart of India through the stories of its conservationists and its most beloved resident: the Bengal tiger. Along with wildlife-viewing drives to spot these majestic but elusive creatures, learn about the efforts to protect their dwindling populations, including those of Kailash Sankhala, who founded Project Tiger in 1973. Witness his family’s conservation legacy firsthand during a stay at their ecolodge in Kanha, and discover their connection to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Along the way, watch for other wildlife like Barasingha deer, Indian bison, langur monkeys, and sloth bear. Plus, get a taste of bustling Delhi and its rich history of pre-colonial empires and cultures.

Highlights

  • Go on wildlife-viewing drives accompanied by a local naturalist and park guide for the best chances to spot tigers and other wildlife in three of India’s best parks and reserves.
  • Discover the conservation story of the Bengal tiger at Kanha Jungle Lodge, operated by the family of Kailash Sankhala, India’s “Tiger Man” and pioneering conservationist.
  • Gain a new perspective on the safari experience as you explore Satpura National Park on foot or by boat, a rare opportunity that offers deeper insight into tiger country.
  • Learn about Indira Gandhi, India’s first female prime minister and a champion of tiger conservation.
  • Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi to get a glimpse into India’s cultural past and present.

Activity Level 2: Easy-Moderate

This 14-day journey focuses on nature and wildlife, with some urban exploration. It is leisurely paced, with 2- to 3-night stays at 4 locations, and easy physical activity—mainly 3- to 4-hour safari drives in 4x4 vehicles over sometimes bumpy tracks. You’ll also enjoy a boat safari and/or the rare chance to seek game on foot. Safari drives begin at dawn, return you to the lodge for midday relaxation, then resume in the late afternoon. Aside from tigers you’ll seek diverse species in variable terrain that includes sandstone canyons, dense forests, and grassy plains. In Delhi you will visit the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum, the former residence of one of India’s most powerful prime ministers. There are several overland transfers of 4 to 5 hours aboard air-conditioned, private motorcoaches, plus two internal flights (Delhi to Raipur and Bhopal to Delhi). Expect humid and warm weather, but early morning safaris can be cold so dress in layers. April to July are the hottest months, and November to February are the coolest and driest. This program is offered October to May as national parks are closed from June to early October.

11 Travelers

$7,980

Land Cost

Group size

Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

Program is seasonal and only operates October through May, National Parks are closed from June to early October.

What makes us different

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Sustainable travel

We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.

Custom-tailored trips

We can customize your itinerary so that it’s the ideal match for your interests, travel dates, and budget

Marketing support and resources

We have all the tools necessary to help you plan, promote and sell your trip

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Day 1
Depart from the U.S. Please note: Dates to travel are October to May as National Parks are closed from June to early October.
Delhi
Day 2
Arrive at the international airport in Delhi, clear customs and immigration, meet your representative, and travel to the hotel. Check-in is available beginning at 2 pm. Continuously inhabited since sixth century B.C.E., Delhi has been the capital of kingdoms and empires, and today is a sprawling metropolis that encompasses this fascinating blend of past and present. It is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of this ancient land.
The Claridges
Delhi
Day 3
After breakfast, be transported back in time to the grandeur and eventual ruin of the Mughal Empire, which ruled from the 16th century to the mid-19th century. Visit Jama Masjid, India's second largest mosque, and admire its tapering minarets and marble domes. Stroll through streets and markets where royalty once roamed, savor the fragrances of boisterous spice markets, be dazzled by India's largest jewelry markets, and glimpse the once glorious havelis (royal mansions) of Old Delhi. Alternating between walking and rickshaw rides, discover hidden gems while exploring the narrow alleys and 350-year-old markets of this city built at the pinnacle of the Mughal period. Afterward, visit the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum, once the residence of the former Prime Minister of India, and the site where she was assassinated in 1984. Learn more about her life, death, and politics, as well as that of her son Rajiv Gandhi, who served as Prime Minister after his mother's assassination, and who himself was assassinated in 1991. The museum houses a collection of rare photographs documenting the Nationalist Movement, which sought independence from Great British colonial rule, as well as personal mementos of the Nehru Gandhi family and clippings of Rajiv Gandhi's funeral pyre. Learn about Indira Gandhi's work as a champion of tiger conservation, and later hear a lecture about Project Tiger, a government conservation program launched in 1973 during her tenure.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
The Claridges
Kanha National Park
Day 4
After breakfast, leave the bustling city behind and journey into the tranquility of India's wilderness. First, take a flight to Raipur, and then drive for approximately 4 to 5 hours to Kanha. Kanha National Park, on the Chhota Nagpur Plateau in Madhya Pradesh, is under the purview of Project Tiger and provides breathtaking views of grassy plains and strands of mixed sal/teak forests. This 366-square-mile preserve was planned to save two endangered species, the Bengal tiger and the Barasingha deer. This evening, watch the award-winning Discovery Channel documentary, "Tigerland," which partly focuses on Kailash Sankhala, the founder of Project Tiger. Sankhala's grandchildren run and manage Kanha Jungle Lodge, your accommodation for the next three nights. Spend the evening getting to know this family whose heritage in tiger conservation dates back three generations.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Kanha Jungle Lodge
Kanha National Park
Day 5
Today, embark on early morning and afternoon visits to Kanha National Park in a 4x4 Jeep accompanied by a naturalist guide. Enjoy the opportunity to see dhol (wild dogs), chital (spotted deer), gaur (Indian bison), munjak (barking deer), sambhar (deer), leopard, and sloth bear. Kanha is also the only place in the world where it is possible to spot Barasingha deer in the wild, thanks to the successful conservation program that brought them back from the brink of extinction. Enjoy a picnic breakfast in the middle of the jungle, and later have lunch at the lodge. In the winter months, warm clothes, woolen caps, and gloves are needed for morning safaris in the open 4x4. Blankets are provided for extra comfort and protection.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Kanha Jungle Lodge
Kanha National Park
Day 6
Continue with morning and afternoon wildlife drives in Kanha National Park in a 4x4 Jeep accompanied by a naturalist guide.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Kanha Jungle Lodge
Pench National Park
Day 7
This morning, drive from Kanha to Pench, which takes around 4 to 5 hours. Pench National Park is located on the southern boundary of Madhya Pradesh, nestled in the lower southern reaches of the Satpura Mountain Range. Named for the Pench River, which meanders through the park from north to south, Pench covers 295 square miles. Notably, the present-day Pench Tiger Reserve and its surroundings are the original setting for Rudyard Kipling's famous work, "The Jungle Book." The undulating topography supports a range of vegetation, from moist, sheltered valleys to open, dry deciduous forest. More than 1,200 plant species have been recorded here, including several rare and endangered plants and plants of ethnobotanical importance. The area is also rich in wildlife; the high habitat diversity favors large populations of chital and sambar. In fact, Pench Tiger Reserve has the highest density of herbivores in India.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Jamtara Wilderness Camp
Pench National Park
Day 8
As soon as dawn breaks, set out on a morning wildlife viewing drive aboard 4x4 Jeeps through the Pench National Park jungle and accompanied by a resident naturalist and forest park guide. After lunch, return to the 4x4 Jeeps with your guides to go on another drive and continue the search for target species.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Jamtara Wilderness Camp
Pench National Park
Day 9
Continue the exploration of Pench National Park with morning and afternoon wildlife viewing drives.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Jamtara Wilderness Camp
Satpura National Park
Day 10
After breakfast, depart Pench and drive to Satpura National Park, located in south Hoshangabad district in Madhya Pradesh. The 820-square-mile park is the core area of the Panchmarhi Biosphere Reserve, and has an elevation of 1,050 to 4,350 feet, with tall sandstone mountains, narrow gorges, ravines, waterfalls, streams, and dense forests. The area boasts two distinctive species of trees, the sal and the teak, as well as many varieties of ferns, mango trees, butterflies, and birds.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Satpura National Park
Day 11
Go on morning and afternoon wildlife viewing drives in Satpura National Park aboard a 4x4 Jeep with a naturalist guide. Enjoy the opportunity to explore the park outside of the safari vehicle - on foot or by boat. Satpura is the only tiger reserve that permits walking safaris in small groups of four, plus a guide, through the heart of the park and encourages a wide variety of activities that give visitors a much deeper insight into tiger country than is possible by Jeep only. Park management, along with Forsyth Lodge, are involved in training local community members to become naturalist guides in order to provide surrounding communities with access to skilled work and discourage potential future involvement in poaching.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Satpura National Park
Day 12
Continue with morning and afternoon visits to Satpura National Park aboard a 4x4 Jeep and accompanied by a naturalist guide.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Depart
Day 13
Spend this morning at leisure. After lunch, drive to Bhopal, which takes around 4 hours. Upon arrival, travel to the airport and board the flight to Delhi. Once in Delhi, go to the hotel to freshen up and relax before traveling to the airport for your international flight home.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Radisson Blu Plaza - day room
Day 14
Arrive to the U.S.
11 Travelers

$7,980

Land Cost

Group size

Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

Program is seasonal and only operates October through May, National Parks are closed from June to early October.

What's Included
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Tips
  • Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Mar 1, 2025 - Dec 20, 2026. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter India. Passports must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least six months after the date of entry.

A visa is required to enter India. For tourism visits not exceeding 60 days, U.S. citizens may apply for an electronic travel authorization at least four days prior to arrival at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html. Visas are not available upon arrival in India, and if you arrive without the correct visa it is possible that you will be deported immediately.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Indian Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

Immunizations

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into India, unless you have been in a country where yellow fever is endemic within six days prior to entry, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination is required.

Though not required, the CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to India.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

Malaria

The CDC warns that travelers to India are at moderate risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.

To protect against mosquitos, the CDC recommends that you cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent, ideally 20 minutes later.

Be careful when applying products containing DEET, as it can damage or dissolve certain synthetic fabrics as well as plastic, rubber, vinyl, or elastic materials, such as those used in camera equipment, binoculars, phone cases, sunglasses, or watches. Additionally, some research suggests that when DEET and picaridin enter local waterways, they can be harmful to amphibians and other wildlife. When selecting a repellent, it is ultimately up to each traveler to weigh the risks and benefits of different options, keeping in mind both environmental factors and the importance of protecting against illness.

Other Insect-borne Illnesses

In addition to malaria, the CDC warns that travelers may be at risk for other insect-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever, chikungunya, Zika virus, leishmaniasis, and others.

Travelers to India should protect themselves against insect bites using the measures described above. Additionally, after spending time outdoors, especially in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

Animal Bites/Rabies

Dogs, bats, monkeys, and other mammals are known to carry rabies in India. Avoid stray dogs and wild animals that seem curious or don’t run away from humans. In the unlikely event of being bitten, clean the wound and control bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately. The CDC advises if you wake up with a bat in your room, assume you might have been exposed to rabies (even if you don't detect a bite) and see a doctor right away to find out if you need treatment.

Sun Exposure

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Food & Water

It is generally not safe to drink tap water in India; instead use bottled water or water that has been boiled. Also use bottled water to brush your teeth. You may also wish to bring water purification tablets with you as a precaution if you are traveling to more remote areas. Avoid taking ice in cold drinks, and do not eat salad vegetables unless you are eating in a major international hotel or restaurant.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. India’s rainy season is June through September, but it can rain at any time. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

In the winter months, warm clothing is strongly recommended. Temperatures can get quite chilly, especially at night and early in the morning. Consider packing a warm underlayer, as well as a warm, protective outer layer.

Please note: It is advisable not to wear black or blue, as this attracts flies and mosquitos.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts that can be worn in layers
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection; medium-weight pants or jeans for cooler weather
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt (or heavier weight if visiting during cooler months)
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) – Some hotels have swimming pools.
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals for around your accommodations.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and to be considerate of your fellow travelers.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Some hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but not all do.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool – Pack in your checked luggage.
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Money belt
  • Voltage converter and plug adapter
  • Chargers for electronics
The safari and seeing tigers are experiences that I will never forget. My personal goals were met and exceeded!
- Sharon Spencer
India , 2016
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