INDIA: a land of rich cultures & diverse wildlife with Nadia Eckhardt
January 14 – 26, 2023 (Main trip)

OPTIONAL Pre & Post India:
January 10 – 14, 2023 (Pre Extension to Japuir & Varanasi)
January 25 – 29, 2023 (Post Extension to Pench & Satpura)

Overview:

India, the land that evokes flights of imagination and curiosity, a canvas of spectacle and colour Ruled by a succession of native kingdoms, and often overrun and inhabited by invading armies of Central Asian origin, followed by the Mughals and finally the British, transformation has been never ending and the results are deeply and visibly etched in today’s milieu. A profusion of races and cultures, and the magnitude of their legacies, are evident today.

This extroverted journey will take you along a richly historic route, full of lore and splendour, punctuated by photographic attractions, and features varied sightseeing and sojourns in historic places.

Please note: This departure will be led by Nadia Eckhardt as the Expedition Easy Tour Leader and with local guides and requires a minimum of 4 travellers. If there are less than 4 travellers, this departure will be led by expert local Naturalists/Guides.

Pre-Extension to Jaipur & Varanasi

Pre-Day 01 (10 Jan 2023): Arrive to Delhi, India. Transfer to Radisson Blu. Check in for 1 night.
Pre-Day 02 (11 Jan 2023): Transfer to Jaipur. Check in to Samode Haveli for 2 nights.
Pre-Day 03 (12 Jan 2023): AM Gems of Jaipur Tour. PM Pink City Tour. 2nd overnight at Samode Haveli.
Pre-Day 04 (13 Jan 2023): Fly to Varanasi. Check in to Guleria Kothi for 1 night. PM glittering “Aarti” Ceremony.
Pre-Day 05 (14 Jan 2023): Sunrise boat ride on River Ganges. Explore Holy Ganga River area. Fly to Delhi and meet with main group at hotel for Culture & Wildlife of India main itinerary.

Culture & Wildlife of India
Day 01 (14 Jan 2023): Arrive to Delhi, India. Transfer to The Claridges. Check in for 2 nights.
Day 02 (Jan 15): Touring in Old Delhi & New Delhi with a rickshaw ride. Overnight at The Claridges.
Day 03 (Jan 16): Transfer to Agra. Sunset visit to Taj Mahal. Overnight at ITC Mughal.
Day 04 (Jan 17): Fly to Khajuraho. Visit to Jain & Hindu Temples. Transfer to Panna. Overnight at Sarai at Toria.
Day 05 (Jan 18): AM Boat Ride at Ken River. PM safari. Overnight at Sarai at Toria.
Day 06 (Jan 19): AM safari drive to Bandhavgarh. Check in to Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge for 3 nights.
Day 07 (Jan 20): On safari from Bandhavgarh. Overnight at Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge.
Day 08 (Jan 21): On safari from Bandhavgarh. Overnight at Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge.
Day 09 (Jan 22): Transfer to Kanha. Check in to Kanha Jungle Lodge for 3 nights.
Day 10 (Jan 23): On safari from Kanha. Overnight at Kanha Jungle Lodge.
Day 11 (Jan 24): On safari from Kanha. Overnight at Kanha Jungle Lodge.
Day 12 (Jan 25): Transfer to Raipur Airport. Fly to Delhi. Overnight at Radisson.
Day 13 (Jan 26): Depart for home.

Post-Extension to Pench & Satpura
Post-Day 01 (Jan 25): After lunch, transfer to Pench. Check in for 2 nights to Jamtara Wilderness Camp.
Post-Day 02 (Jan 26): AM & PM Game Drives in Pench National Park in open 4×4 jeeps. 2nd overnight Wilderness Camp.
Post-Day 03 (Jan 27): AM Game drive. Transfer to Satpura. Check in for 2 nights to Forsyth Lodge.
Post-Day 04 (Jan 28): Choose from Jeep, Boat or walking safaris in Satpura National Park. Or choose a village walk. 2ndovernight at Forsyth Lodge.
Post-Day 05 (Jan 29): AM safari activity. Transfer to Bhopal Airport & fly to Delhi. Check in to Pride Plaza for 1 night.
Post-Day 06 (Jan 30): Depart for home.

Interested in more information? Please contact Expedition Easy by calling 1-800-617-2319 or click here to e-mail the Expedition Easy Team.

INDIA: a land of rich cultures & diverse wildlife with Nadia Eckhardt
Main Itinerary
January 14 – 26, 2023

Day-by-day Itinerary:

Saturday, January 14, 2023

Day 01: Arrive to Delhi, India, Transfer to The Claridges for overnight.

Arrive to Delhi, India. On arrival, clear customs and immigration and meet your representative who will greet you and transfer you to The Claridges. Check in for 2 nights.

About Delhi
The capital of India, Delhi is a city that offers a glimpse of both ancient and modern day India.  It is the third largest city in India and one of the fastest growing in Asia.  This city is rich in culture, always changing with time but never hiding its splendid past. The various ancient ruins seen in the city are silent witnesses to its magnificent history.  The city of Delhi is a blend of two different yet perfectly balanced parts, the Old and the New Delhi.  With its intricate streets, elegant mosques, forts, monuments, and bazaars that sell a variety of goods, Old Delhi speaks volumes about its Mughal past.  With its multi-ethnic, multi-cultural population, New Delhi is truly cosmopolitan.

Sunday, January 15, 2023
Day 02: Touring in Old Delhi & New Delhi with Rickshaw Ride. Overnight at The Claridges.

After breakfast, enjoy a full day of sightseeing of the walled city, Old Delhi and the cosmopolitan New Delhi.

Visit Old Delhi, it pulses with the energy and color, the hustle and bustle of thronged bazaars and is laced by a maze of narrow lanes which twist and turn between tall, leaning houses full of the sights, sounds and aromas of the Indian subcontinent. You will visit Jama Masjid with its tapering minarets and wonderful marble domes. In Old Delhi you will also have an opportunity to enjoy rickshaw ride. A rickshaw ride is a ride in the old city market laid by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, would give you an experience of life time. Pass through the colorful shops of bustling ChandaniChowk, one of the largest wholesale markets in Asia also an important landmark in the history of India. If you feel up to it take a short walk in the market and explore another facet of Indian life. The city named New Delhi offers more historical sites than the Old Delhi. The city founded by the imperial British government founded in 1911 to move their capital from Kolkata (called Calcutta earlier). The sight-seeing tour of New Delhi would include a visit to Humayun’s Tomb, a drive along the ceremonial avenue – Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House and the President’s Residence and would end with a drive through the Diplomatic Enclave.

Monday, January 16, 2023
Day 03: Transfer to Agra. Sunset Visit to Taj Mahal. Overnight at ITC Mughal.

After breakfast, check out of The Claridges. You will be met and transferred approx. 4 – 5 hours to Agra. Upon arrival in Agra, check in to ITC Mughal for 1 night. In the evening, enjoy a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal.

About Agra
Badal Singh established the city of Taj in 1475 AD. Agra finds mention in the Mahabharat as Agraban. Sikandar Lodi made Agra his capital but Babur defeated the Lodis to capture not only Agra but also laid the foundation of the Mughal Empire. In the mid-16th century and earlier 17th century AD, Agra witnessed a frenzied building activity and it was during this time when the symbol of love Taj Mahal was built.

About Taj Mahal
Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder, which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist’s visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen.

Tuesday, January 17, 2023
Day 04: Fly to Khajuraho. Visit Jain & Hindu Temples. Transfer to Pana. Overnight at Serai at Toria.

After breakfast, check out of ITC Mughal. You will be met and transferred to Agra Airport for your flight to Khajuraho; AI406; Agra/Khajuraho; 1355/1440

On arrival, you will be met and taken to visit the magnificent Jain and Hindu Temples and intricate stone sculptures. . Known as the erotic temples, the craftsmanship exhibits images of gods and goddesses, celestial maidens and dancers, animals and musicians, all frozen in stone, many in the act of courtship. Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site to preserve this collective glorification of life, love, and joy, and reflect the spirit of creativity and human relationships of the Chandela period (9th & 10th century CE). The Eastern group of temples include the Parasvanath Temple – the only Jain Temple surviving at Khajuraho with excellent sculptures on the outer walls of the Sanctum, the Javeri Temple dedicated to Vishnu, and other temples dedicated to Brahma, the Goddess Kali, the Visha Temple of Shiva, and the Bharatji Temple with a lovely image of 11 headed Vishnu.

After sightseeing, we continue our drive to Panna. On arrival, check in to Serai at Toria for 2 nights. Tonight, we will be joined by our host Dr Raghu Chundawat and his wife Joanna Van Gruisen to discuss conservation. Dr Raghu Chundawat, is a conservation biologist immortalized in the BBC documentary “Tigers of the Emerald Forest”, while his wife Joanna Van Gruisen is an accomplished photographer, writer, and conservationist.

Sarai (or Serai) is an ancient Persian term for a roadside inn or caravanserai – Toria is the nearby village. The luxurious Sarai at Toria plays a positive role in the economic and social development of the local area; it also exists as a base for conservation activities and for wildlife and climate change research.

Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Day 05: AM boat ride at Ken River. PM Safari. Overnight at Serai at Toria.

After breakfast, we will be collected for a morning boat ride on Ken River to see the birds and wildlife. Enjoy lunch before heading out in the afternoon on a safari by 4×4 jeeps accompanied by the resident naturalist and forest guide. Return to the lodge for evening tea and an afternoon at your leisure. Overnight at Serai at Toria.

Thursday, January 19, 2023
Day 06: Transfer to Bandhagarh. Overnight at Bandhargarh Jungle Lodge.

After breakfast, you will be met and transferred approx. 5 – 6 hours on safari to Bandhavgarh. On arrival, check in to Bandhavgarh for 3 nights. Enjoy the evening at your leisure or choose to go on a nature walk accompanied by a naturalist.

About Bandhavgarh National Park
Set amongst The Vindhya Hills in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh consists of 168 sq miles of Sal & a mixed forest of bamboo, grassland, and a complex of deciduous forests. There are at least 150 species of birds in the park, along with other mammals such as Tigers, Sloth Bear, Langur Monkeys, Wild Boar, Mongoose, 3 Kinds Of Deer – Chital, Sambar and Barking, to name a few. Bandhavgarh has been the backdrop of numerous wildlife documentaries where legendary Tigresses have raised over 20 cubs to adulthood. Sita, was one of these star tigresses. Bandhavgarh boasts one of the highest density of Tigers anywhere in the world, in a beautiful setting which are set amongst Vindhya Hills.

Friday – Saturday, January 20 – 21, 2023
Day 07 – 08: On Safari in Bandhavgarh. Overnight at Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge   

You will wake up to misty mornings and sounds of birds calling, which will make an exciting start to your day. As soon as dawn breaks, leave for your Jungle Safari, accompanied by a resident naturalist and forest park guides in 4x 4 Jeeps. In the winter months morning safaris require warm clothes and woolen caps and gloves to keep you warm from the wind chill factor in your open jeep. We provide blankets and sometimes even a hot water bottle to keep you comfortable. Lunch and afternoon safari by 4×4 jeep accompanied by resident naturalist and forest guide. Overnight at Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge.

Sunday, January 22, 2023
Day 09: Transfer to Kanha. Overnight at Kanha Jungle Lodge.
After breakfast and a morning jungle safari, you will be met and transferred approx. 6 hours to Kanha. Our drive takes us through rural countryside & colorful town & villages and stop in the sleepy town of Mandla (sacred city for Gond tribes) where the Narmada river, second holiest to the Ganges, is the center of activity. En-route enjoys your picnic lunch & arrive Kanha and check in at Lodge.

Our evening will be spend orienting ourselves with the national park. We will look at some maps, understand what is a buffer area and core area, get a good understanding of the areas we will do our safaris in. Together with the naturalists of the camp, they will answer any questions that you may have. A focus in this park is to also study the return of the Barasingha. A swamp Deer that almost went extinct, and has been brought back by successful breeding program inside the national park.

 

About Kanha National Park
Set on The Chhota Nagpur Plateau in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha provides breath taking vistas of grassy plains and strands sal forests. This 366 sq mile preserve was set to save two endangered species i.e. Tiger and The Barasingha. One of the largest and most scenic National Parks in India, Kanha is an Ideal habitat for both tigers and their prey, the lush sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows and ravines of Kanha shelter a significant population of rare species such as tiger, leopard, sloth bear, Barasingha, wild dog to name a few. Kanha’ʹs mixed forests are interspersed with vast meadows known as maidens. Perennial streams run through a number of such meadows, providing a source of water for the wildlife even in the hot summers. Kanha meadow, with its hundreds of chital grazing on a carpet of green grass against the backdrop of the majestic Sal forest, has been aptly referred to as ‘ʹthe Ngorongoro of India”. Kanha is particularly well known for its endangered swamp deer, or hard water barasingha, which populate the large open tracks of grass amidst the forests of teak and bamboo. Brought back from the brink of extinction, these handsome animals are a remarkable conservation success story for Kanha.Sal trees and open grasslands dominate the lowlands of Kanha. These grasslands or also known as maidan, are results of once relocated villages under Project Tiger. This is was a country wide project launched in 1971 to protect the Tigers and its habitat. One of its initiatives was to control man animal conflict by moving villages from core areas into the buffer, so that corridors can be linked once again. Hence, these maidans are live examples of successful re-location of villages which have now turned into grasslands allowing a successful growth of prey base for predators. 

Monday – Tuesday, January 23 – 24, 2023
Day 10 – 11: On Safari in Kanha National Park. Overnight at Kanha Jungle Lodge.

Morning and afternoon safari by 4×4 open jeep. In between the morning and evening safaris, at leisure or go for nature walk, visit to nearby village/school or engage yourself in cooking demonstration. We are staying with the family whose heritage dates back 3 generations in Tiger Conservation. Kailash Sankhala, was the founder director of Project Tiger, under which the inceptions of the Project Tiger Reserves in India took place. Their Grandchildren run and manage Kanha Jungle Lodge, Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge and Jamtara Wilderness Camp. Made by Discovery Channel and premiered at Sundance Film Festival, focuses on two passionate people trying to save the Tiger. One of them is Kailash Sankhala. Return to lodge for evening tea and rest of time free for star gazing.

Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Day 12: Transfer to Raipur Airport. Fly to Delhi. Overnight at Radisson Hotel.
After breakfast and a morning safari, you will be transferred approximately 4 ½ hours to Raipur Airport. Check in for our Indigo Flight to Delhi; 6E-2454; Raipur/Delhi; 1940/2135

On arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to the Radisson Hotel for overnight.

Thursday, January 26, 2023
Day 13: Depart for Home.

At a time dependent on your international air, you will be met and transferred to the Delhi Airport. Check in for your

*Please note: This itinerary is subject to change. In the spirit of expedition travel, plans may change slightly to take full advantage of encounters with the destination and its people, culture, and wildlife.

EE-SD2023

INDIA: a land of rich cultures & diverse wildlife

OPTIONAL Pre & Post India:
January 10 – 14, 2023 (Pre Extension to Japuir & Varanasi)
January 25 – 29, 2023 (Post Extension to Pench & Satpura)

Optional Pre-Extension to Jaipur & Varanasi:

Tuesday, January 10, 2023
Pre-Day 01: Arrive to Delhi, India. Transfer to Radisson Blu for overnight.

On arrival to Delhi, India clear customs, immigration and meet your representative who will transfer you to Radisson Blu. Check in to a Superior room for 1 night.

Wednesday, January 11, 2023
Pre-Day 02: Transfer to Jaipur. Check in to Samode Haveli for 2 nights.

After breakfast at your hotel, check out of the Radisson Blu and meet your representative who will privatel transfer you approximately 5 – 6 hours to Jaipur. On arrival, check in to Samode Haveli in a Deluxe Suite for overnight.

About Jaipur
The capital city of the state of Rajasthan, also known as “Pink City” owes its name, its foundation and planning to the great warrior astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city sits on a dry lakebed in a wild and somewhat arid landscape, surrounded by barren hills surmounted by fortresses and crenellated walls.

Thursday, January 12, 2023
Pre-Day 03: AM Gems of Jaipur City Tour. PM Pink City Tour. 2nd overnight at Samode Haveli.

After breakfast proceed for Gems of Jaipur City Tour.

Gems of Jaipur City Tour: Morning visit the magnificent Amber Fort, the most iconic monument of Jaipur .You can have the experience of travelling by Jeep on top of the hill. where the fort is situated. Housing many palaces, halls, gardens, and temples. Including Sheesh Mahal, an elaborate mirror Palace work adds to the grandeur of this historic part, a visit to Amber is indeed well worth.

Afternoon proceed for wonders of Pink City Tour: For the visitor, the Pink City of Jaipur is definitely a feast for the eyes. This planned city built in AD 1727 by a visionary King Sawai Jai Singh II. He designed a city so perfect, so beautiful, the likes of which cannot be found the world over. Join us on this memorable guided tour to visit City palace, the residence of the present Royal family who have opened their gates to visitors and converted a part of their palace into a museum. Afterwards visit the Observatory (Jantar Mantar) which boasts of having the largest Sun Dial of the World.

Also enjoy a heritage walking tour, great way to explore Jaipur architecture. You see an amazing variety of historic landmarks and buildings, interaction with local people and witness some of Jaipur famous art and craft.

Stay overnight at Jaipur.

About Jaipur
The capital city of the state of Rajasthan, also known as “Pink City” owes its name, its foundation and planning to the great warrior astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city sits on a dry lakebed in a wild and somewhat arid landscape, surrounded by barren hills surmounted by fortresses and crenellated walls.

Friday, January 13, 2023
Pre-Day 04: Fly Jaipur to Varanasi. PM Glittering “Aarti” Ceremony. Overnight at Guleria Kothi.

Early morning you will be met and transferred to the Jaipur airport. Upon arrival check in for your Spice Jet flight to Varanasi; SG-2985; Jaipur/Varanasi; 0550/0725

On arrival in Varanasi, you will be met and transferred to Guleria Kothi. Check in for 1 night in a Deluxe Room. In the evening, visit the Dashaswamedh Ghat for a glittering “aarti” ceremony. After the ceremony return to Guleria Kothi for overnight.

About Varanasi
Varanasi, known to the devout as Kashi, is said to have been founded by Shiva, Lord of the Universe. One of the oldest living cities in the world, as also one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India, Varanasi is a major tourist attraction. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges, the city has been a center of learning and civilization for over 2000 years.

 About Dashaswamedh Ghat & Glittering “Aarti” Ceremony
Glittering “aarti” ceremony of the holy river Ganges Huge lamps are set ablaze and the priest holds forth the lamp as the multitude chants the hymns. You will be driven to a place called Beniabagh and from there walk to Dashaswamedh Ghat amidst crowded local market famous for spices, local shops, cloths and daily vendors  selling fruits, pickles, vegetables etc on hand pulled carts.

Saturday, January 14, 2023
Pre-Day 05: Sunrise boat ride on River Ganges. Explore Ganga river area. Fly to Delhi. Meet with main group.

Wake up at the crack of darn for a sunrise exclusive boat ride on the River Ganges to see people praying and bathing and to witness burning ghat. Enjoy touring through the landscape before your afternoon transfer to Varanasi Airport. On arrival at the airport check in for your Air India flight to Delhi; AI-433; Varanasi/Delhi; 1530/1705

About Boat Journey & Ganga River Touring
As the sun rises you will see those who flock to the riverside for morning worship. Along the way you will hear about the interesting history of the ghats and their patronage by the Maharaja’s who built them.  Later a walk through the mystical landscape of poets, sacred temples, holy ponds near Assighat, the southernmost embankment of the holy Ganga river, walk in the footsteps of 16th century Banaras poet and mystic Pandit Goswami Tulsidas, translator of the sacred Ramanyana text, you will hear about the history and special culture of Varanasi while visiting the Southern temple established by Tulsidas! The walk ends with a special darshan, meaning ‘taking sight’ of a hidden sun temple behind his home 

 End of Pre-Extension Itinerary

Optional Post-Extension Pench & Satpura:

Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Post-Day 01: Transfer to Pench National Park. Overnight at Jamtara Wilderness Camp.

After lunch with your main group, bid farewell and meet your representative who will transfer you approx. 4 – 5 hours to Pench. On arrival, check into Jantara Wilderness Camp in a Luxury Tent for 2 nights.

About Pench National Park
located in the Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is the 19th Project Tiger Reserve and has been one of the best kept secrets among wildlife enthusiasts who have long been acquainted with and bedazzled by its immensely varied flora and fauna. No wonder the area providing a backdrop for it’s animal character dominated by fairly open canopy of mixed forest, predominantly teak, with open grassy patches, the park with its undulating land boasts the highest density of herbivores in any Indian park. It has a large diversity of wildlife, including Leopard, Tiger, Jungle Cat, Dhole (Wild Dog), Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Mongoose, Gaur and the highest density of Herbivores including Cheetal (Spotted Deer) and Sambar.

Thursday, January 26, 2023
Post-Day 02: AM & PM Game Drives in Pench National Park. Overnight at Jantara Wilderness Camp.

Early morning & evening game safaris into the Pench National Park. Safaris in Pench are organized in 4×4 open jeeps. Local guides and naturalists are at hand to enhance the experience.

Friday, January 27, 2023
Post-Day 03: AM Game Drive. Transfer to Satpura. Overnight at Forsyth Lodge.

After breakfast and a morning game drive (time permitting), check out of Jantara Wilderness Camp and meet your representative for your approx. 5 hour drive to Satpura. On arrival, check in for 2 nights to Forsyth Lodge in a cottage.

About Satpura National Park
Located in south Hoshangabad district in Madhya Pradesh. The 524 Sq km Park is the core area of the Panchmarchi Biosphere Reserve that includes Bori wildlife sanctuary to its south-west and Panchmarhi wildlife sanctuary to its north-east. The park has an elevation of 320-1,352m with tall sandstone mountains, narrow gorges, ravines, waterfalls, streams and dense forests near the Mahadev hills in the Pachmarhi plateau. The area boasts of two unique species of treed – the sal and the teak besides wide varieties of ferns, mango trees, butterflies and birds.

Saturday, January 28, 2023
Post-Day 04: Full Day enjoying Satpura National Park. Overnight at Forsyth Lodge.

Indulge yourself in Game drive / walking safari /Boat Safari/ bush walk around the camp or village walk.

Jeep Safaris: This is the best way to explore large areas looking for wildlife. 

Boat Safaris: The Park offers exploring the areas along the river by using boats. Again one has the option of using either a canoe or a motor boat. Boat safaris are excellent if one wants to get close to aquatic birds or sometimes even crocodiles.

Walking Safari: Exploring the forest on foot too is an interesting experience especially if you have a highly skilled naturalist that could really bring alive the lesser fauna such as geckos, butterflies, frogs and birds that one sometimes misses during other safaris.

Sunday, January 29, 2023
Post-Day 05: AM safari. Transfer to Bhopal Airport. Fly to Delhi. Overnight at Pride Plaza.

After breakfast and a morning safari activity (time permitting), you will be met and transferred to the Bhopal Airport. On arrival, check in for your Spice Jet flight to Delhi; SG-8638; Bhopal/Delhi; 2045/2210

On arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to the Pride Plaza. Check in to a deluxe room for 1 night.

Monday, January 30, 2023
Post-Day 06: Transfer to Delhi Airport. Depart for Home.

After breakfast at your hotel, check out of Pride Plaza. You will be met by a representative and transferred to Delhi Airport. On arrival, check in for your international flight and depart for home.

INDIA: a land of rich cultures & diverse wildlife with Nadia Eckhardt
January 14 – 26, 2023 (Main trip)

OPTIONAL Pre & Post India:
January 10 – 14, 2023 (Pre Extension to Japuir & Varanasi)
January 25 – 29, 2023 (Post Extension to Pench & Satpura)

Rates:

India: a land of rich cultures & diverse wildlife with Nadia Eckhardt:

Package Rate:
Approx. $8,755.00 per person sharing, based on 4 Travelers with Nadia as Tour Leader
Approx. $7,280.00 per person sharing, based on 6 Travelers with Nadia as Tour Leader
Approx. $6,635.00 per person sharing, based on 8 Travelers with Nadia as Tour Leader

 Additional Single Supplement: $1,180.00 per single traveler

Additions:

Park Fees: $200.00 approx. per person

  • Rates are per person and are based on shared accommodations
  • Rates are approximate until the time of booking
  • Rates are quoted in USD and subject to change without prior notice
  • Nadia Eckhardt will travel as TL based on a minimum of 4 Travelers Traveling
  • Single Space is limited to only 1 Single Traveller on this departure

Flights within INDIA Main Itinerary Airfare: Approx. $330.00 per person

  • Airfares are quoted in USD and are subject to change without prior notice
  • Flights are non-refundable once paid for and issue
  • Please note: Airfare is quoted on the basis of best available average fare which is subject to change. This fare can be lower or can be higher at the time of booking. Exact fare will be advised at the time of booking

Pre-Extension JAPUIR & VARANASI Package Rate:
Approx. $1,895.00 per person sharing, based on 2 Travelers Traveling
Approx. $1,755.00 per person sharing, based on 4 Travelers Traveling

  • Rates are per person and are based on shared accommodations
  • Rates are approximate until the time of booking
  • Rates are quoted in USD and subject to change without prior notice

Pre-Extension Flights: Approx. $330.00 per person 

  • Airfares are quoted in USD and are subject to change without prior notice
  • Flights are non-refundable once paid for and issued
  • Please note: Airfare is quoted on the basis of best available average fare which is subject to change. This fare can be lower or can be higher at the time of booking. Exact fare will be advised at the time of booking. 

Post-Extension PENCH & SATPURA Package Rate:
Approx. $1,995.00 per person sharing, based on 2 Travelers Traveling
Approx. $1,975.00 per person sharing, based on 4 Travelers Traveling

  • Rates are per person and are based on shared accommodations
  • Rates are approximate until the time of booking
  • Rates are quoted in USD and subject to change without prior notice

Additions:

Post- Extension Park Fees: $100.00 approx. per person

Post-Extension Flight: Included with main package rate (Taken against Jaipur – Delhi flight from main itinerary that post-extension does not include on Day 12)

  • Airfares are quoted in USD and are subject to change without prior notice
  • Flights are non-refundable once paid for and issued
  • Please note: Airfare is quoted on the basis of best available average fare which is subject to change. This fare can be lower or can be higher at the time of booking. Exact fare will be advised at the time of booking.

Included:

Pre-Extension JAPUIR & VARANASI Included

  • Accommodation on a double/twin sharing basis at hotels as mentioned in itinerary or similar
  • Meals from Day 01 Dinner to Day 05 breakfast
  • Services in AC Toyota Innova (2 travelers) or Tempo Traveler (4 travelers) for airport transfers, sightseeing and drives
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned in itinerary and all ASI monuments per itinerary
  • Services of expert guides with wakling expierence at Jaipur & Varanasai
  • Jeep ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur uphill
  • Rickshaw ride in Jaipur
  • Exclusive boat ride at River Ganges, Varanasi
  • Mineral water during transfers, sightseeing and drives
  • Assistane at airports & hotels for check in/check out
  • Government services tax

INDIA: a land of rich cultures and diverse wildlife: MAIN trip Inclusions

  • Accommodation at hotels as mentioned in itinerary or similar
  • Meals from Day 01 Dinner to Day 12 Dinner
  • Services in AC Mini Coach (6-8 Travelers) or Tempo Traveler (4 Travelers) for airport transfers, drives and sightseeing
  • Transfers between Panna – Bandhavgarh – Kanha – Raipur in Air Conditioned Toyota Innova
  • Richshaw ride in Old Delhi
  • Battery van ride at Taj Mahal
  • Services of English Speaking resident naturalist services at Panna, Bandhavgarh & Kanha
  • Jeep Safaris on an exclusive basis
  • Entrance fees to places of visit & national parks as per itinerary
  • Gratuities/Tips
  • Mineral Water during transfers, sightseeing, drives & lodges
  • Assistance at airports & hotels for check in/check out
  • Government Services

Post-Extension PENCH & SATPURA Included

  • Accommodation at hotels as mentioned in itinerary or similar
  • Meals from Post-Day 01 Dinner to Post-Day 06 breakfast
  • Services in AC Toyota Innova (2 travelers) or Tempo Traveler (4 travelers) for airport transfers, sightseeing and drives except for transfers between Kanha – Pench, Pench – Satpura and Satpura Bhopal, where we will provide Air Conditioned Toyota Innova (max 3 paying pax per vehicle) for smoother and faster driving experience on narrow country side road.
  • Services of English Speaking naturalist
  • Safaris in Pench & Satpura on a shared basis
  • Mineral water during transfers, sightseeing, drives & lodges
  • Government Services

Not Included:

– Any Internal Airfare (Listed separately in rates above)
– International Air
– Anything not mentioned in inclusions or itinerary above
– Optional Touring
– Any expenditure of personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls, hard drinks etc.
– Anything ordered from room service at any hotel
– Any sudden increase in price due to steep hike beyond our control
– (Africa Easy Tour leader not included on pre/post extensions)

Deposit & Payments

In order to secure and confirm your trip with Expedition Easy, a 25% per person credit card deposit plus full payment for flights within your itinerary (if applicable) are required. Also, at this time we will ask you to complete an Expedition Easy Reservation Form and sign our Terms & Conditions.

Once you are ready to confirm your booking with Expedition Easy, you will receive two emails from DocuSign, one with an Expedition Easy Reservation Form & Terms and Conditions and one with an Expedition Easy Credit Card Authorization Form. These forms are to be completed online through DocuSign and will automatically be sent to Expedition Easy for processing.

Shortly after your credit card has been charged, you will be sent an Expedition Easy Invoice and a Booking Confirmation email, which will include travel insurance information and pre-departure information to assist you in preparing for your trip.

Reservations

This itinerary is subject to the availability of all services at the time of making a reservation. No space is being held at this time. Please contact Expedition Easy for the full terms and conditions that apply. We are happy to answer questions and discuss your trip.

To reserve space on a trip on the Expedition Easy website, please contact Expedition Easy by calling 1-800-617-2319 or click here to e-mail the Expedition Easy Team.


January 14 - 26, 2023