India's Big Cats Wildlife Tour
India's Big Cats Wildlife Tour
Bandipur National Park, Gir Forest National Park, Hemis National Park, Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole National Park
The 21 days wildlife tour, India's Big Cats Wildlife Tour provides travellers with a rare opportunity to witness some of the world's most magnificent and elusive big cats in the...
Overview & Highlights
The 21 days wildlife tour, India's Big Cats Wildlife Tour provides travellers with a rare opportunity to witness some of the world's most magnificent and elusive big cats in their natural habitat. This adventure takes you to various national parks across India, where you get a chance to watch majestic Asiatic Lions, Royal Bengal Tigers, Snow Leopards, Black Panther, and many other species. The wildlife tour includes accommodation, meals, transport, sightseeing, and safaris.
Itinerary
Day 1Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi
On the day of arrival at the New Delhi airport, BookWildlifeSafari adventure specialist will welcome you at New Delhi airport, and assist you for smooth transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city's bustling streets or wander its wide tree-lined boulevards to get your first taste of India. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2Day 2: New Delhi - Leh (By Flight)
Early morning, our representative will pick-up you from your hotel in New Delhi and tranfer you to IGI Airport to board a flight to Leh.
Upon arrival at Leh Airport, our local representative will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure, acclimatize yourself to the altitude and climate in Leh. In the evening, visit the white-domed Shanti Stupa that sits pretty on a hilltop. Later, you can explore the local market where the shopper's can spend time buying authentic Tibetan handicrafts such as Prayer Wheels, Stoles, Pashmina Shawls among others. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3Day 3: At Leh
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to visit the splendid Sham Valley. A visit to this place is often an overwhelming experience as this place was constructed by the Indian Army to commemorate soldiers who lost their lives during Indo-Pak wars. It brings you up, close and personal with the sacrifices of our soldiers. Later, visit the Kali Mata Mandir followed by famed Buddhist monastery, the Spituk Gompa - an 11th-century structure. After that visit Gurudwara Patthar Sahib built by the Lamas of Leh to honour Guru Nanak Dev’s visit in 1517. Also visit the Magnetic Hills, to experience the optical illusion where the downhill road actually looks like an uphill road, further driving through a picturesque landscape we reach the confluence of The Indus and Zanskar River. Later drive back to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 4Day 4: At Hemis National Park (Drive to Zingchen/Trek to Rumbak valley)
This day marks the commencement of the Snow Leopard Trek. Today, we have to make our way to Zingchen after having an early breakfast. You are advised to carry extra water as it may take many hours to find a source of drinking water during the complete day's trail. Amidst the drive to Zingchen, you will come across the guards of Hemis National Park.
The trek on foot will begin from Zingchen, and we will head towards Rumbak valley, over a mild, gradual trail that climbs uphill. We will maintain a steady pace today, as the trail is mostly ascending. It's important to observe meticulously, for your first sighting of the Snow Leopard will most likely be here in Rumbak valley. Overnight stay will be arranged in camps. After having some fun sessions and gulping the delicious dinner, we will retire to the tents for a good sleep.
Day 5Day 5: At Rumbak Valley
Our guide will search the trails looking for signs of Snow Leopards throughout the Rumbhak, Husing, & Tarbung valleys, in these area we can find around 9 to 10 different cats. After breakfast, our guide will make a decision on where to take you for the day to trace Snow Leopards. Dinner & overnight stay at the camp in Rumbak Valley.
Day 6Day 6: Rumbak - Base of Chortenchen (4,084m)
Today, we'll trek to Chortenchan, which is at 4.084m. We'll pass through Stok La, from where one can see the upper Indus valley and Stok Gorge with beautiful rock formations. Later, we'll climb down to Khilchay, which is a summer pasture of Stok village, climb over two small humps and get down to Stok Nallah. Then walk uphill on the left bank of Stok Nallah for about twenty minutes and enter into another summer pasture, called Chortenchan. If we are lucky enough, then we might see a snow leopard here. This location also provides the best opportunity to look for the snow leopards primary wild prey - the blue sheep, which inhabit the steep slopes and rocky ledges. We can also spot other wildlife here, including Wolf, Himalayan fox, marmots and several exciting species of birds, which include the chukor partridge, snow cocks, lammergeyer, accentors, rose finches, redstarts, Eurasian hobby's and kestrels. Dinner & overnight stay at the camp in Chortenchen.
Day 7Day 7: Chortenchen - Stok Base Camp (4,600 m)
Start the day with a luscious breakfast, before bracing yourself for some adventure. Start the day with a steady climb for about three hours, which takes you to the base camp of Stok Kangri. Dinner & overnight in tents at the base camp.
Day 8Day 8: Stok Base Camp - Leh
Trek to Stok valley through willow groves and alpine meadows, past the ruins of an ancient Ladakh fortress - Styang La Khar. From here, we'll drive back to the hotel in Leh. Dinner & overnight in tents at the hotel in Leh.
Day 9Day 9: Leh - New Delhi (By Flight)
It's time to say farewell to the Ladakh Snow Leopard Summer Trek. Leave on time for Leh airport to board a flight to New Delhi.
Upon arrival, our representative will meet you and transfer you to hotel in New Delhi. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 10Day 10: New Delhi - Bangalore (By Flight)
After breakfast at the hotel, our representative will transfer you to New Delhi airport to board a flight to Bangalore.
Upon arrival at Bengaluru airport, our representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. If time permits, we'll explore Bangalore, known as the City of Gardens. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 11Day 11: Bangalore - Kabini (200 km/4.30 hrs drive)
Post breakfast, leave for Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary - a part of Nagarhole National Park, most famous for Black Panther sightings. Once the hunting grounds for the Royal Family of the Wadiyar dynasty, Royal Family of Mysore, the wildlife sanctuary is now open for tourism. On arrival at Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, check-in to the resort. Relax at the resort, later in the afternoon enjoy a boat safari on Kabini River to get an exclusive opportunity to spot variety of flora and fauna, such as Tigers, Black Panthers, Elephants, Indian bison or gaur, spotted deer, common wolf snake, Malabar grey hornbill, etc. Overnight stay at the resort.
Day 12Day 12 & 13: At Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary
Enjoy early morning and afternoon safari's at Kabini National Park in search of the majestic Black Panther also known as the Ghost of the Forest. Other animals that can be spotted during safari are Sloth Bears, Leopards, Tigers, Wild Dogs, Sambar, Four-Horned Antelopes, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Elephant, Gaur, Wild Boars, Mongoose, Giant Flying Squirrel, Slender Loris, Bonnet Macaque, Porcupine, Mouse-Deer, Jackal, Pangolin and Hare. Along side over 250 species of birds can also be located in the vicinity of this park. Overnight stay at the resort.
Day 13Day 14: Kabini - Bandipur National Park (100 kms/2.30 hrs drive)
After breakfast at the resort, leave for Bandipur National Park & Tiger Reserve - a picturesque location situated amidst Western Ghat Mountains on the Mysore-Ooty highway. Being a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Bandipur Tiger Reserve is home to diverse wildlife, the highest populations of Asiatic Elephants in Southern India, and a paradise for bird watchers as well. On arrival at Bandipur, check-in to the resort. Rest and relax at the resort, later in the afternoon, enjoy a jeep safari inside the national park for wildlife exploration & birding. Overnight stay at the resort.
Variety of animals at Bandipur National Park: Tigers, Leopards, Asiatic Wild Dogs, Stripped Hyenas, Jackals, Jungle Cats, Leopard Cats, Rusty Spotted Cats, Palm Civet, Small Indian Civets, Otters and four different species of Mongooses (the common stripe necked, brown and ruddy mongooses), Gaur, Sambar, Cheetal, Muntjac, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Four-Horn Antelope, Pangolin, Indian Porcupine, Fruit Bat, Spender Loris, Langur, Bonnet Macaque, Wild Boar, Black Saped Hare.
Variety of Birds & Reptiles at Bandipur National Park: Bandipur is home to more than 200 species of birds including honey buzzards, red-headed vultures, Indian vultures, brown fish owls etc. and reptiles includes: Rock Python, Cobra, Marsh Crocodile, Monitor Lizard, Rat Snake, Wolf Snake, Common Krait, Runel's Viper Bamboo Pit Viper and Green Keel Back are also found here.
Day 14Day 15: At Bandipur National Park
Enjoy early morning and afternoon safari's under the guidance of wildlife naturalist. Dinner & overnight stay at the resort.
Day 15Day 16: Bandipur/Bangalore (220 kms/4.30 hrs drive)
Post breakfast, leave for Bangalore. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 16Day 17: Bangalore/Rajkot (By Flight) - Gir National Park (140 kms/3.30 hrs drive)
Post breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Bangalore Airport to board a flight to Rajkot. Upon arrival at Rajkot Airport, our local representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to Gir National Park. Upon arrival check-in at the resort for overnight stay.
Day 17Day 18: At Gir Forest National Park
Start your day with a heart-pounding adventure as you embark on an early morning jeep safari within Gir National Park. As the sun rises, the park comes to life with a symphony of sounds from its diverse inhabitants. Keep your camera ready to capture glimpses of majestic Asiatic lions, elusive leopards, and a variety of other wildlife species that call this sanctuary home. Accompanied by experienced guides, you'll traverse through rugged terrains and dense foliage, gaining insight into the park's unique ecosystem and the efforts taken for its conservation.
Lunch will be arranged at the resort. Later in the afternoon, gear up for another thrilling jeep safari that delves deeper into Gir National Park's wilderness. This session offers a chance to spot different wildlife behaviors and interactions as the day begins to transition into twilight. Your skilled guides will share their expertise, enhancing your understanding of the park's delicate ecosystem and the significance of its inhabitants.
Witnessing the majestic Asiatic lions, the park's crowning glory, in their natural habitat is a rare and awe-inspiring experience. Besides lions, keep an eye out for leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boars, and a rich avian population that completes the park's diverse tapestry. Dinner and Overnight at the resort.
Day 18Day 19: At Gir Forest National Park
Enjoy 2 round of jeep safari's under the guide of our professional local wildlife naturalist. First safari early in the morning, and another round later in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay at the resort in Gir Forest National Park.
Day 19Day 20: Gir/Rajkot - Mumbai (By Flight)
After breakfast at the resort, leave for Rajkot Airport to board a flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival at Mumbai Airport, our local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Mumbai. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 20Day 21: Departure from Mumbai
After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Mumbai International Airport to for onward journey.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
20 nights accommodation in 3 star deluxe hotels/camps/resorts (Please Note: Accommodations can be upgraded to Luxury boutique hotels/4 star/5 star or your choice of hotels on a request basis at an additional cost. Luxury camps/resort not available in Hemis National Park)
Daily breakfast at the hotels in New Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai
All meals at the camp in Hemis National Park (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
All meals at the camp in Kabini/Nagarhole National Park (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
All meals at the camp in Bandipur National Park (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
All meals at the camp in Gir National Park (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
English speaking local destination guide will accompany you throughout Ladakh Expedition
Wildlife naturalist at Nagarhole, Bandipur, and Gir National Park
All sightseeing and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary
4 jeep safari's at Kabini/Nagarhole National Park
1 boat safari at Kabini/Nagarhole National Park
2 jeep safari's at Bandipur National Park
4 private jeep safari's at Gir National Park
Trek Permit in Hemis National Park
Personal assistance during arrival and departure
Ladakh environmental fee
All applicable taxes
Exclusions
Any International or domestic flights are not included
Insurance - It is advisable that you buy comprehensive medical/travel insurance in advance from your country before traveling to India
Any cost arising due to natural calamities like, landslides, road blockage, political disturbances (strikes), etc. (to be borne by the client, who is directly payable on the spot)
Any personal expenses, laundry, or telephone charges
Oxygen Cylinder/Heater charges will be applicable additionally (If required) as USD 10/day
Personal Equipment: Your Rucksack, personal clothing, shoes, trek poles, and other personal trekking gear is not included in this package. You have to bring your own gear according to the weather and difficulty of the trek.
Any monument entrance fee, camera fee
Anything that is not mentioned in the tour cost included please consider it out of the package
Accommodation
Hotel Ladakh Imperial or similar - Leh
Deluxe Camps in Hemis National Park
Comfort INN Insys or similar - Bangalore
Kabini Lake View Resort or similar- Nagarhole National Park
Vishal Lords Inn - Gir Forest
Hotel Le Grand or similar - Mumbai
What Our Clients Say
Sanjeev Sharma Test editedNew Delhi★★★★★In publishing and graphic design, Lorem ipsum is a placeholder text commonly used to demonstrate the visual form of a document or a typeface without relying on meaningful content.
Kmishna MenshuiNagaland, India★★★★★In publishing and graphic design, Lorem ipsum is a placeholder text commonly used to demonstrate the visual form of a document or a typeface without relying on meaningful content.
Nainita KherwalKarnatak, India★★★★★In publishing and graphic design, Lorem ipsum is a placeholder text commonly used to demonstrate the visual form of a document or a typeface without relying on meaningful content.
Why Travel With Book Wildlife Safari?
Ready To Experience The Wild?
Book your India's Big Cats Wildlife Tour today and create memories for a lifetime.