itinerary - see tigers close up in india · travels took him to ranthambore, bandhavgarh, kanha,...

2 Kingdom of the Tiger: Tiger and India Wildlife Expedition Led by Biologist Tom Mazzarisi

The Wild Source • 801 14th St, Golden, CO 80403 • 1-720-497-1250

ITINERARY

Feb 26 Arrive on international flight (not included in cost) at Delhi International Airport. Meet and greet at the airport and transferred to the Taj Mahal Hotel for 1 night accommodation.

Feb 27 Transfer to airport for a morning flight to Jabalpur. Upon arrival you are met and transferred by road (4 hours) to Kanha National Park – Singinawa Jungle Lodge for 3 night accommodation. Each day morning and afternoon game drives.

Feb 28 Kanha National Park – Singinawa Jungle Lodge.

Mar 1 Kanha National Park – Singinawa Jungle Lodge

Mar 2 Morning game drive into Kanha. After lunch you are transferred by road (6 hours) to Bandhavgarh National Park – Kings Jungle Lodge for 3 night accommodation. Each day morning and afternoon game drives (except on Wednesdays – see March 4th).

Mar 3 Bandhavgarh National Park – Kings Jungle Lodge.

Mar 4 Bandhavgarh National Park – Kings Jungle Lodge. Morning game drive and special afternoon activity. (India’s tiger reserves are closed for afternoon game drives on Wednesdays to give the wildlife a bit of a reprieve from visitors)

Mar 5 Morning game drive into Bandhavgarh. After lunch, you are driven (4 hours) to Jabalpur for flight to Delhi. Upon arrival you are chauffeured to the Trident Hotel for 1 night accommodation.

Mar 6 Morning transfer to airport for flight to Guwahati. Upon arrival you are met and transferred by road (4 hours) to Kaziranga National Park – Diphlu River Lodge for 4 night accommodation.

Mar 7 Kaziranga National Park – Diphlu River Lodge. Morning and afternoon game drives (morning game drive can be substituted for an elephant-back safari). Optional activities include bathing elephants, cultural visits, and a boat cruise to see the highly endangered Ganges dolphin.

Mar 8 Kaziranga National Park – Diphlu River Lodge

Mar 9

Kaziranga National Park – Diphlu River Lodge



Mar 10 Transfer to Guwahati airport for afternoon flight to Delhi International Airport. From here you are greeted and transferred to the Trident Hotel for day room use. Later transfer back to airport for your international flight (not included in costs) home.

SAFARI COSTS Safari Cost is $6,500 per person sharing; Single supplement is $1,879

Included:

All accommodations (including day room on last day of trip).

All transfers, sightseeing, and overland trips in air-conditioned mini vans in cities and air-conditioned Toyota Innova vehicles between national parks.

All internal flights.

Travel Journal.

Meals and bottled water (breakfast only at the Tal Mahal Hotel and Trident Hotel Gurgaon; no meals at day room on last day of trip).

Morning and afternoon game viewing safaris (option of morning elephant safari instead of morning jeep safari at Diphlu River Lodge).

Not included:

International flights.

Soft drinks and alcoholic drinks.

Laundry

Optional Activities: Bandhavgarh and Kanha offer special all day game drive rate for $850 per vehicle (3 person per vehicle max).

Suggested Tips (per person): $10 a day for your guide/naturalist. $5 a day for staff. $1 per bag at hotel.

Other tips (per person) to consider; Mahout if taking a safari on elephant back $1-$5. Transfer driver $1-$5.

A park employee will also accompany you on driving safaris and tipping is not necessary. This person ensures park regulations are followed.

Visa fee for entry into India (allow 2 months to apply for and obtain visa).



INTRODUCTION

India. A country rich in history and tradition is also home to a dazzling array of animal life. There are 400 mammal species and over 500 bird species that can be found among the country’s 500 national parks and reserves. Two thirds of the world’s wild tigers, one-horn rhino, and Asian elephants find refuge in India. India is also the only home for the Asiatic lion, which is isolated to Gir National Park and the surrounding sanctuary. 15 species of cat (5 big cats), 4 species of wild cattle, 15 species of primate, 4 species of bear, 7 species of dog, 6 species of antelope, 9 species of deer, and numerous species of smaller animals roam the forests, grasslands, deserts, mountains, and waterways of the Indian subcontinent.

Tigers though have become the magnet for eco-tourism in India. India is home to the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), the second largest tiger in the world after the massive Amur or Siberian tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) which reaches weights near 700 pounds and reaches lengths of 11 feet long. The tiger is revered in the Hindu religion and is the national animal. It is no surprise the world’s second most populated country works so hard to protect the tiger and its realm.



Tom graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder with a degree in Conservation and Biology.

Tom’s passion is wildlife, especially wild predators. He spent 12 years protecting wildlife as a park

ranger inside Yellowstone National Park, where he also assisted with grizzly bear research. Tom left

his job as a park ranger to embark on a dream; to live and work in the African bush. Tom managed

Bilimungwe Bushcamp in Zambia’s most famous national park, South Luangwa; a park he and his

wife honeymooned in 2009. The passion and knowledge he gained from working alongside some of

the continent’s top safari guides was life changing. Upon returning stateside, Tom found an

opportunity with The Wild Source to cultivate his desire to help people fall in love with the wildlife and

conservation.

In 2012, Tom spent several weeks visiting India’s top tiger parks and fell in love with the jungle. His

travels took him to Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Panna National Parks and Tiger

Reserves. India is an amazing safari destination to view the iconic tiger, but also for the great variety

of other wildlife. Tom was fortunate to see 12 wild tigers (including two sets of cubs), 2 of which

were from the back of an elephant and within leaping distance of the big striped cats. That was just

the beginning, because of his interest in all-things-wild, Tom had marvelous sightings of leopard, the

rare Indian jungle cat, sloth bear, swamp deer (barasingha), barking deer, the massive gaur, battles

between rutting spotted deer (chital), the horse-sized antelope called the nilgai, wild pig, rare birds,

incredible forests and landscapes, and so much more.

On this custom planned safari Tom is looking forward to sharing his knowledge and passion for

tigers and the diverse range of Indian wildlife with you.

LED BY TOM MAZZARISI PARK RANGER, BUSHCAMP MANAGER, BIOLOGIST



BIOLOGIST PLANNED The Wild Source was founded by big cat researcher Bill Given, and every safari is wildlife biologist planned. This trip is also wildlife biologist led to ensure that both our planning and on the ground safari experience go to a deeper level for our wildlife enthusiast clientele. Bill and Tom have used their contacts with Indian naturalists and wildlife filmmakers, combined with their own expertise to create the best quality wildlife safari to India. We have selected the optimal time to maximize the combination of great success with tigers paired with overall excellence in wildlife viewing and birding. We will be traveling during India’s winter, a time when the deciduous forests of the India jungle begin to dry as it transitions out of winter and into summer. The time selected is targeted to focus on tiger and other game viewing with comfortable daytime temperatures and cool nights.

Most India trips focus primarily on tigers for good reason, but there is a diversity of life here that rivals that of Africa. Besides tiger, you will take advantage of the great opportunities to see one-horned rhino, the gaur, several species of deer and antelope, sloth bear, leopard, and even the Ganges dolphin. In staying true to our roots, we not only want you to see these remarkable animals, we want you to learn as much as you can. With Tom’s knowledge and great local naturalists to teach you, we feel you will not only come home with pictures, but a better understanding of India’s wildlife and wilderness.



INDIA’S WILDLIFE

We are sure to see a tremendous diversity of wildlife. Highlight mammals that we are very likely to see include Bengal tiger, leopard, one-horned rhino, Asian elephant, chital (spotted deer), sambar deer, barasingha (swamp deer), gaur, Asiatic wild buffalo, wild pig, nilgai antelope pea fowl, langur monkeys, rhesus macaque, and jackal. Several other mammal species that are more elusive but we might have opportunities to sight are sloth bear, Indian wild dog (dhole), striped hyena, Ganges dolphin, wolf, several species of smaller cats, barking deer, hog deer, blackbuck antelope, Indian gazelle, chowsingha, and other smaller and lesser seen mammals.



India is rich in birdlife with over 500 species, including the national bird, the pea fowl (peacock). On this trip you will get to see peacocks displaying their brilliant feathers and listen to their meow-like calls echo through the jungle. Even those who think they have no interest in birds will be enthralled. Several species of owls and raptors are quite common to see. Those used to the birding in Africa may see a number of similar and identical species in the parks we will be exploring.



AFRICAN SAFARI COMPARISON

As this expedition is sure to attract interest from many of our experienced African safari clientele it is useful to discuss this trip in context of our African safari experiences. An African Safari is an unrivaled wildlife viewing experience, but the world does hold other exceptional locations to see a different array of species – India is such a country. From a wildlife point of view, India has a lot of corresponding species that have evolved in their own direction. Several big cats, elephant, rhino, large wild buffalo, jackal, honey badger, and several species of antelope make India home. We will have close up viewing of an incredible diversity of animals. Like Africa, we will be put in a position to have a very good chance of seeing some of the iconic species such as tiger, one-horned rhino, leopard, gaur, Asian elephant, and so much more. When it comes to standard of accommodation the experiences are quite different. The classic India experience is to stay in comfortable and luxurious lodges located outside of the parks. India’s parks are usually the core of a larger tiger reserve. Visitors are not allowed to overnight inside the parks (with a few exceptions). This may seem extreme, but it is to ensure a future for highly endangered wildlife such as the tiger which has seen its numbers plummet from 100,000 in the early twentieth century to less than 4,000 today. The best tiger viewing occurs in the central region of India and we are visiting the top two of those, Bandhavgarh and Kanha. Morning and afternoon game drives are the norm, but there are opportunities to see tigers from elephant back as long as a tiger is resting comfortably and shows no sign of agitation. In Kaziranga, an elephant ride is a must to get above the tall grass in hopes of looking down on a tiger. Kaziranga is also home to 2,000 one-horned rhino (2/3rd of the world’s population). There are no night drives allowed inside the parks. Walking safaris are not offered. Safari vehicles are smaller open jeeps (pictured above). There is no off-roading allowed which is meant to protect wildlife and the vegetation. Remember, India is a country of over 1 billion people. Habitat is at a premium. To cut down on congestion, parks are split up into



units and safari vehicles are assigned a specific unit where they must remain for the duration. Each time you arrive at the gate, park officials will assign your guide a unit. You will have a different unit each time you enter the park.

This trip is built for wildlife enthusiasts who are passionate about seeing the world’s fantastic array of creatures. It is an opportunity to see a highly endangered species on the brink of extinction. No one knows for certain what the future has for tigers and the other animals that share its domain. Now is the time to go see the largest and most revered of the big cats. The tiger is a sacred animal in the Hindu religion. It is also the India national animal. Tourism demonstrates the value that people demand conservation of this great cat, and your visit will help contribute to ensuring the tiger persists for future generations. The jungle is a magical place and knowing the king lurks about adds wildness to your adventure. As in Africa, the warning calls of monkey and other prey animals will alert you to the presence of a top predator. The jungle can be quite thick in spots and at times you will be painstakingly close and unable to see the tiger, knowing full well it sees you. The expression, ‘The Eye of the Tiger,’ will have new meaning for you once you lock gazes with this mystical beast.



TAJ MAHAL HOTEL DELHI, INDIA – 1 NIGHT

The narrow alleys of Old Delhi hold secrets of the Mughal rule and the wide avenues and imperial buildings of New Delhi are reminiscent of The British Raj. An ancient city which has risen from a combination of eight settlements and where every crumbling wall has a story to tell, Delhi has been considered forever the seat of power, from the past to the present.

294 rooms including 27 suites are luxuriously appointed with latest in in-room comforts. The hotel offers The Taj Club, Executive Suites, Luxury Suites and the Grand Presidential Suite.

A 5,940 square foot spa, offers 2 single treatment rooms, 2 Couple rooms and is a perfect abode to indulge in signature therapies by expert therapists. Revitalizing and restoring specialty treatments help unwind after a long flight with various options at the health club and fitness center.



SINGINAWA JUNGLE LODGE KANHA NATIONAL PARK, INDIA – 3 NIGHTS

Singinawa lodge is located just outside the park and sits on 55 acres. It is surrounded by waterholes, grasslands, a river, beautiful rock formations, and magnificent trees.

The lodge features 12 charming, secluded, stone and slate cottages with a large bedroom, private verandah, en-suite bathrooms with double vanities & rain showers, fireplaces, air conditioning & mini bar.

The lodge also includes dedicated room stewards & laundry service, a grand dining area offering a choice of cuisines, a pool that overlooks grassland, and a spa with Indian & Oriental treatments for holistic healing

Activities include game drives, bird walks, and local nature trails. The lodge also offers bicycles for exploring the lodge grounds & nearby villages.



Singinawa is a Sherpa word which means ‘Protectors of the Sacred Forest’ and is the philosophy that guides the principles of Singinawa Jungle Lodge.

Located in the heart of tiger country, Singinawa Jungle Lodge offers a unique experience along with the comforts of world class luxury just outside the gates of Kanha; a park that inspired Kipling’s, “A Jungle Book.”

Singinawa offers the chance to learn about the tiger and its habitat, sustainable and responsible eco-tourism, conservation, and how it all benefits local communities and wildlife.

The park consists of a core area of 940 sq km, which is surrounded by a buffer zone of 1,005 sq km, thus comprising a total area of 1,945 sq km.

Tiger, gaur and barasingha (swamp deer) are found here in good numbers. Leopard, spotted deer, langur monkeys, jackal, sloth bear, and a wonderful array of other mammal and bird species also call the jungles of Kanha home.



KINGS JUNGLE LODGE

Kings lodge is nestled between Sal forested hills of Bandhavgarh National Park in a large natural forested estate. The lodge is in the heart of tiger country and only a ten minute drive from Bandhavgarh’s Tala gate. You will be accompanied into the park with exceptional guides. Kings Lodge is recognized for its commitment to conservation and the local community. The lodge consists of 10 luxurious and beautifully decorated cottage rooms and 8 stilt cottage rooms with en-suite modern bathrooms. Privacy is of utmost importance. All cottage rooms are air-conditioned, have a large verandah with views of the forest, writing table and chair.

BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK, INDIA – 3 NIGHTS



Bandhavgarh was established in 1968 as a National Park, and is spread over an area of 1150

sq. kms. It was declared a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in the year 1993.

The park is predominantly covered with forests

containing Sal, Sali, and Dhobin trees. There are also vast stretches of grassland and 32 hills. A

diversity of animal life shares the jungle with the tiger; sambar and spotted deer, leopard, sloth bear,

jackal, recently reintroduced gaur, several hundred bird species, and dozens of smaller mammals.

Though smaller than other tiger parks,

Bandhavgarh has one of the highest densities of tigers in the world. Bandhavgarh used to be the

hunting reserve of the Maharajas of Rewa.

Besides having one of the highest densities of tigers in the world, the park also became world

renowned for its population of rare white tigers. White tigers are not albinos. It has been decades

since anyone has spotted a wild white tiger in Bandhavgarh.



TRIDENT HOTEL DELHI, INDIA – 1 NIGHT

Located just 30 minutes from the Dehli International Airport, the Trident is low-rise and spread

over seven acres. The hotel blends the natural elements of space, water and light into its design.

You will also find influences of Moroccan, Mughal and Rajasthani style in its architecture. The

beige dome-like traditional exterior houses 136 contemporary rooms and suites, furnished with all

the modern amenities for discerning guests.

Trident features gardens, courtyards and reflection pools, lending it a resort-like ambience. The

sense of calm filters through the entire hotel- the spa, swimming pool, the palm courtyard,

restaurants and the main lobby.

Wellness and recreation facilities are designed to help you unwind and relax after a day of travel

or sightseeing in the city. From a quick swim in our outdoor pool, which is heated during winter, to

a leisurely spa therapy or a yoga session in the morning, there are plenty of options to choose

from. Get your daily dose of exercise at our 24-hour fitness center or indulge with beauty

treatments at the salon.



DIPHLU RIVER LODGE KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK, INDIA – 4 NIGHTS

Operating successfully since 2008, the Diphlu River Lodge is located

on the banks of the Diphlu River, overlooking Kaziranga National Park.

The Diphlu River Lodge offers air-conditioned accommodation for 24

guests at a time. There are 8 individual cottages and 4 semi-detached

cottages. The raised cottages are made of natural materials like

bamboo and wood, topped with thatched roofs to blend in with the

forest surroundings.

The Lodge organizes daily elephant and jeep rides with an

accompanying naturalist to help you spot and understand the private

lives and habits of the diverse fauna. The Lodge also organizes a

unique forest walk, an activity that requires special permission from

the authorities. This 2 hour guided tour allows you to experience and

appreciate the details that you may miss on an elephant or a jeep.



A World Heritage Site located in northeast India, Kaziranga has been a reserve forest for more than a hundred years and lies in the flood plains of the Brahmaputra River, covering some 430 square kilometers. It is home to the world's largest population of one-horn rhinoceros, Asian elephant, and tiger. Kaziranga has a diverse and beautiful landscape with extensive grasslands, densely forested tropical areas, interconnecting streams, and numerous small lakes.

The Park also plays host to 35 other major mammals in their natural environment and more than 400 species of birds, some of which migrate from as far away as Siberia.

itinerary - see tigers close up in india · travels took him to ranthambore, bandhavgarh, kanha,...

Documents