Explore Ajanta Caves, showcasing ancient Buddhist rock cut art and exquisite murals.
Overview & Highlights
Explore the finest blend of culture and wildlife on this 19-day India UNESCO Heritage and Wildlife Safari Tour with Tigers and Asiatic Lions, crafted for travelers seeking both history and adventure. Discover iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient cave complexes, and grand monuments, while enjoying thrilling safaris in search of Bengal tigers and the rare Asiatic lions. This journey offers a seamless mix of heritage, nature, and comfort, with well-planned travel and carefully selected stays throughout. Book now or customize this tour for an incredible holiday!
Explore Ellora Caves, featuring rock cut temples and the remarkable Kailasa monolithic masterpiece.
Experience the Golden Triangle by exploring Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, India's most iconic tourist circuit.
Explore Pench National Park, a lush haven of diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Discover Tadoba Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra’s oldest national park, home to thriving tiger population.
Experience the thrill of encountering majestic Asiatic lions in their natural habitat at Gir National Park.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Mumbai International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by an Alkof Holidays representative who will escort you to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to unwind and explore at your own pace. Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for a full-day sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Visit the iconic Gateway of India overlooking the Arabian Sea, followed by a photo stop at the majestic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. Explore the Prince of Wales Museum (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya) to learn about India’s rich heritage. Drive past the UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and enjoy a scenic drive along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace. Continue to Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, and visit the Hanging Gardens for city views. Return to the hotel in the evening for a relaxing overnight stay.
Early morning, transfer to Mumbai Airport to board your flight to Aurangabad. On arrival, our local guide will receive you and escort you to a local restaurant for breakfast. Later, set out for a full-day excursion to the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient Buddhist cave temples adorned with exquisite murals and sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BCE. These caves are celebrated for their artistic excellence and their vivid depiction of the life and teachings of Buddha.
On the return journey, if time and energy permits, visit Bibi ka Maqbara, often referred to as the “Taj of the Deccan,” built by Emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his wife. After a day rich in history and art, check in to your hotel for an overnight stay in Aurangabad.
Please Note: The Ajanta Caves remains closed on every Monday. If you start you tour on Monday, we will explore Ellora Caves, instead of Ajanta Caves.
After breakfast, proceed for a guided tour of Ellora Caves. The Ellora Caves consist of 34 rock-cut shrines representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art dating from the 4th to 9th century A.D. The most remarkable is the Kailash Temple, believed to be a replica of Lord Shiva’s celestial abode and a true marvel of rock-cut architecture and engineering. Next, visit Daulatabad Fort, one of the most impressive and formidable forts in the country. Later our driver will transfer you to Aurangabad Airport to board a flight to New Delhi. Upon arrival in New Delhi Airport, our local driver will receive you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Please Note: The Ellora Caves are closed every Tuesday. If you start you tour on Tuesday, we will explore Ajanta Caves, instead of Ellora Caves.
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi, a city with a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC. Begin your tour at Rajghat, the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Next, visit Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan. Experience the vibrant atmosphere with a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's busiest market. Drive past the Presidential House and India Gate in Edwin Lutyen's Delhi. Explore Humayun's Tomb, built in 1562 by his wife, Hamida Banu Begum. Conclude your day with a visit to the Qutab Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, commissioned by Qutbuddin Aibak. In the evening, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
After breakfast at your hotel, leave for Agra. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Itmad-ud-Daulah and the grand Agra Fort. Later, head to Mehtab Bagh, located across from the Taj Mahal, to admire a stunning sunset view of the monument. Afterward, explore marble inlay workshops and enjoy shopping in Agra’s vibrant markets. Overnight stay at the hotel in Agra.
Early in the morning, visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise and admire its breathtaking beauty. Later return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Jaipur. On the way visit Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 37 kilometers from Agra. Built in 16th century, it was once the capital of Mughal Emperor Akbar. After sightseeing at Fatehpur Sikri, proceed to Jaipur for an overnight stay.
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Jaipur. Begin your exploration with Rajasthan's iconic attraction, the Amber Fort and Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed by Raja Man Singh in 1592 using red sandstone and marble. This majestic fort complex is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Maota Lake and the surrounding landscapes. Explore its extensive palace sections and intricate architecture, which blend seamlessly with the natural terrain. Following your visit to Amber Fort, continue your Jaipur sightseeing with a visit to Jal Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, and the Albert Hall Museum. After an enriching day of sightseeing, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Jaipur.
After breakfast at the hotel, leave for New Delhi. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, our driver will transfer you to New Delhi Airport to board a flight to Nagpur. Upon arrival at Nagpur airport, our local driver will receive you, and transfer to Pench National Park, the real inspiration behind The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. Spanning approximately 758 sq. km, Pench is renowned for its rich biodiversity and historical mention in Ain-i-Akbari. It was honoured with the Best Management Award in 2011. Upon arrival, check in at the resort and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Engage in activities of your choice or simply unwind in the tranquil surroundings. Overnight stay at the resort.
Today, head out for morning and afternoon jeep safaris in Pench National Park, exploring a landscape of teak forests, grasslands, and riverine patches. With an experienced naturalist, follow fresh tracks and alarm calls as you search for tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and sloth bears, along with herds of deer moving across the clearings. The park’s varied terrain keeps every drive different, offering both close sightings and quiet moments in the wilderness. Dinner and overnight stay in Pench National Park.
Enjoy an early morning jeep safari at Pench National Park, later get back to the resort for breakfast. After breakfast, depart for Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, the oldest and largest tiger reserve in Maharashtra. Upon reaching Tadoba, check in at your resort. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the nearby area, or enjoying the lush surroundings. Dinner and overnight stay at the resort in Tadoba.
Early in the morning, before breakfast, head out for a private jeep safari in Tadoba Tiger Reserve to explore the forest when wildlife is most active. After the safari, return to the resort for breakfast and some rest. In the afternoon, proceed for your second private jeep safari, giving you another chance to spot tigers and other animals in different parts of the park. Return to the resort in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.
Start the day early with another morning private jeep safari, before breakfast, to enjoy the peaceful forest and watch wildlife in its natural surroundings. After the safari, return to the resort for breakfast and relaxation. In the afternoon, head out for your final private jeep safari in Tadoba, making the most of your time in this famous tiger reserve. After the safari, return to the resort for dinner and an overnight stay.
Begin your day with an exciting early morning jeep safari through Tadoba Tiger Reserve, home to a rich variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs (dholes), gaurs, sambar deer, and spotted deer wandering through the forest. Tadoba is also a paradise for bird lovers, with species like crested serpent eagles, Indian pittas, paradise flycatchers, and grey hornbills commonly seen. Reptile enthusiasts may spot marsh crocodiles, Indian rock pythons, and monitor lizards basking near water bodies. Return to the resort for breakfast. After breakfast, leave for Nagpur. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel for overnight stay.
Early in the morning, collect your packed breakfast and drive to Nagpur Airport to board your flight to Rajkot. On arrival at Rajkot Airport, our local driver will meet you and take you to Gir National Park. En route, stop at a good restaurant for lunch. After reaching Gir, check in to your resort. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Early in the morning, embark on a private jeep safari inside Gir National Park - the only home in the world to the endangered Asiatic Lions. Gir also shelters a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including leopards, Indian hyenas, civet cats, jackals, sambar deer, nilgai, chital, wild boar, and the unique four-horned antelope. The park's dry deciduous forests come alive with every turn of the trail, offering raw, unscripted encounters with nature at its finest. Later, drive back to the resort for breakfast and leisure time. After lunch, embark on an afternoon jeep safari to maximize your chances of spotting the magnificent Asiatic Lions roaming freely in their natural habitat. Dinner and overnight stay at the resort in Gir National Park.
After breakfast at the hotel, our driver will transfer you to Rajkot Airport to board a flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival in Mumbai Airport, our local driver will receive you and transfer you to your hotel in Mumbai for an overnight stay.
After breakfast at the hotel or earlier as per your flight timing, our driver will transfer you to Mumbai International Airport to board a flight to your home or onward destination.
Personalize Your Itinerary
Share your preferred dates, hotel level, and travel interests. Our experts will refine your itinerary and create the right plan for your trip.
What is Included in This Tour
- Domestic flight from Mumbai to Aurangabad (Economy Class).
- Domestic flight from Aurangabad to New Delhi (Economy Class).
- Domestic flight from New Delhi to Nagpur (Economy Class).
- Domestic flight from Nagpur to Rajkot (Economy Class).
- Domestic flight from Rajkot to Mumbai (Economy Class).
- 18 nights accommodation in 4 star hotels on twin or double sharing basis.
- Breakfast only at the hotels in Mumbai, Aurangabad, Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.
- All meals at the resort in Pench National Park (B, L, D - Buffet / Fixed Menu).
- All meals at the resort in Tadoba National Park (B, L, D - Buffet / Fixed Menu).
- All meals at the resort in Gir National Park (B,L,D - Buffet / Fixed Menu).
- English speaking local destination guides during sightseeing in Mumbai, Aurangabad, Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.
- Wildlife naturalist at Pench, Tadoba, and Gir National Park during safaris.
- Airport pick-up / drop-off, all sightseeing and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary.
- 1-2 persons - by comfortable sedan car such as Toyota Etios or Suzuki Dzire or similar.
- 3 persons - by comfortable MUV car such as Toyota Innova Crysta or similar.
- 4 or more persons - by comfortable mini-van such as Tempo Traveller / Tourist Bus or similar.
- Personal assistance during arrival and departure.
- 1 cycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi.
- 3 private jeep safaris at Pench National Park.
- 5 private jeep safaris at Tadoba National Park.
- 2 private jeep safaris at Gir National Park.
- 1 mineral water bottle per person per day.
- All applicable taxes.
- It is advisable that you buy a comprehensive medical/travel insurance in advance from your country before traveling to India.
- Please Note: Tour guides for specific languages, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, and Dutch, are also available on request basis at an additional cost.
- Any VISA fee (if applicable).
- Any monument entrance fee, camera fee.
- Any kind of tips, personal expenses, laundry, or telephone charges.
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Accommodation
Frequently Asked Questions
At Alkof Holidays, we ensure smooth travel planning. Our FAQ covers everything from booking procedures and payment methods to travel itineraries, best times to visit, hotel upgrades, and more. For more assistance, contact us anytime.
The best time for a wildlife safari in India is from October to June, when most national parks are open and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
October to February brings pleasant weather, lush landscapes, and excellent birdwatching opportunities, making it perfect for comfortable safaris.
March to June is widely considered the prime wildlife season, especially for spotting tigers. As temperatures rise, animals gather around water sources, which greatly improves your chances of seeing them during game drives.
Most parks remain closed during the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rainfall.
Pench National Park is known for its open forests and high chances of spotting wildlife such as Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs (dholes), deer, and many bird species. It is also famous as the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, making it a unique and memorable safari destination in India.
Tadoba stands out for its open forest structure and excellent visibility, which improves wildlife sightings compared to denser reserves. It is one of the few parks where tiger sightings are consistently reported across multiple zones. Another key advantage is its balance of accessibility and authenticity. Tadoba is less commercialized than Ranthambore National Park, yet offers equally rewarding wildlife experiences. The mix of teak forests, bamboo patches, and water bodies supports rich biodiversity, making it ideal for both first time visitors and serious wildlife enthusiasts.
The chances of seeing Asiatic lions in Gir National Park are quite high, thanks to the park's successful conservation efforts and the significant population of these majestic animals. With over 600 lions residing in the park, visitors have a good chance of spotting them during their safari. The probability of a sighting is generally higher during early morning and late afternoon safaris when lions are more active. While sightings are not guaranteed, the park's experienced guides and the strategic location of waterholes and feeding grounds significantly enhance the likelihood of encountering these iconic big cats. For the best experience and to increase your chances of seeing lions, consider planning your visit during the shoulder season.
Yes, you can upgrade to 4 star or 5 star hotels, or select your preferred properties. We will customize your accommodation to match your comfort and travel style. Please contact us to share your preferences.
Yes, we accept international credit cards. Your payments are highly secure, as we process them through trusted platforms such as CCAvenue and PayPal. This ensures your transaction details are protected with the highest level of security standards.
Yes, your pickup is included in the tour. A representative will meet you at your specified location - whether at the airport, railway station, or your hotel - to ensure a smooth transfer, allowing you to begin your journey comfortably and stress-free. All internal airport pickups and drop-offs are also included in the tour.
Know Before Your Go
Important Information
- If rooms are not available at the mentioned hotels, we will provide alternate hotels of a similar category. Early check-in or late check-out is subject to availability.
- Safari access to specific zones is subject to availability. To secure your preferred safari bookings in your desired zones, we recommend booking your tours at least 90 days in advance. To book your safari, we require a clear photo of the traveler's passport, as mandated by the forest department.
- Once safaris are confirmed, the safari fees are non-refundable. Please carry your original valid passport or ID proof to present at the entry gate for safaris.
- The core safari zones in Pench, Tadoba, and Gir National Park remain closed every Wednesday. Please plan accordingly.
- For easy communication on the go, consider downloading WhatsApp, as it is widely used in India.
- Transportation is provided according to the itinerary only and is not available on a disposal or point-to-point basis.
- Tipping in India is not compulsory, it is optional but appreciated. A small gratuity is expected in some cases; tip generously for exceptional service. The amount can range from $2, $5, $10 per day, or more, depending on satisfaction and the quality of service received.
- Any costs arising from natural calamities such as road blockages, political disturbances (e.g., strikes), etc., are to be borne by the client. We will not be held liable for any refunds or compensation claims resulting from these circumstances.
- India VISA: Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a visa to enter India. However, all other foreign nationals must obtain a visa to enter India. For more information, please check https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.
Payment Terms
A deposit of 25% is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 90 days prior tour starting date. For any bookings within 90 days of departure, the full tour amount will be charged upon booking. This can be paid through bank transfer, credit/debit card, or cash.
Cancellation
If you cancel at least 90 days before the scheduled departure date, a 10% cancellation fee will apply to the total cost of the tour. Kindly read complete details at Cancellation Policy.
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Why book this tour with Alkof Holidays?
We create thoughtfully planned journeys with carefully selected hotels, trusted transport partners, experienced guides, and dedicated support so you can travel with confidence from arrival to departure.