Description
Begin by flying to Delhi, and heading straight into the tiger reserves. You will start with Bandhavgarh, one of the best places to see a tiger in the wild, as well as offering a diverse cross section of India’s colourful wildlife. Scott Dunn guests continually say how much they adore Bandhavgarh, especially a morning spent at the fort in the centre of the park. As you look over the edge of the cliff, you will see vultures circling below. As you wander through the park, there is an abundance of wildlife on show, from the cheeky monkeys bouncing around, to that moment when you see the tiger stripes for the first time, emerging from the lush green and brown foliage right before you. Retreat back to Monsoon Forest to be looked after by one of India’s absolute experts in wildlife, Druv Singh, at his amazing little lodge. At night, feast on organic curries as you tell all about your day in the park.
It’s really worth also heading to Kanha National Park, about a 5-hour drive away. It’s a wonderful drive, passing through local villages and towns that don’t see a lot of tourists, and the roads are now much improved. Kanha is another great park, and along with tigers, you might well have a chance to see leopard or two. Flame of the Forest is another boutique gem, and your hosts Karan and Isa will ensure you will have a fabulous time.
Next, drive to Raipur (3.5 hours) and fly to Calcutta, which is in our opinion the most fascinating Indian city. We will put you in the hands of one of our expert guides to explore the city such as Husna Tara or Devika Duncan – absolute experts in making the most of the city. It is best explored on foot, around the old town and through the markets before heading for breakfast with a local socialite. You may like to head to Calcutta Races, or possibly see the colour of a tea auction in progress. At night, retreat to The Oberoi Grand, right in the centre of the city and a haven away from all that goes on outside the front door.
Finally, your journey takes you down to the remote Andaman Islands for some R&R. Barefoot at Havelock Island is somewhere few ever think of heading when they are thinking about a beach break – but for those who make the effort, they are suitably rewarded. It has been rated as the best beach in Asia, and has some of the best diving in the world, and it even has its own resident elephant, Rajan. It is a little simple, but for sheer uniqueness and Robinson Crusoe style; it’s hard to beat.
Finally, fly back to Chennai (Madras) for a night before returning to London.
Guide price
£3,695 per person
£3,695 Price per person based on 13 nights. Full Board & Game drives included in the Tiger Parks and B&B elsewhere. International Flights with British Airways, Domestic flights, Private drives and transfers with personal driver. Personal guides and experiences in Calcutta.
Itinerary
| Stay | Location / Route | Overnight |
|---|
| 1 night
| Fly to Delhi with British Airways | Overnight Flight |
| 3 nights
| Fly to Jabalpur, Drive to Bandhavgarh (3.5hrs) | Monsoon Forest |
| 2 nights
| Drive to Kanha (5hrs) | Flame of the Forest |
| 2 nights
| Drive to Raipur (3.5hrs). Fly to Calcutta | The Oberoi Grand |
| 5 nights
| Fly to Port Blair. Private Speedboat to Havelock | Barefoot at Havelock Island |
| 1 night
| Private Speedboat to Port Blair. Fly to Chennai | 1nt Trident Chennai |
| 0 night
| Fly to London with British Airways | Dayflight |
Location and directions
India
Near the Tala Zone, Bandhavgarh National Park
How to get there
8.5hr flight, 1 hour domestic flight, 3.5 hour drive
