Tigers of Nepal and India with Taj Safaris

Why we like it

A multi-country wildlife holiday maximizes the variation of wildlife viewings. Chitwan is home to the one-horned rhino and Kanha has a large density of Bengal tiger. Experience a mix of jungle safaris by jeep in the core zones or on exploring on foot in the buffer zones. For those short on time and keen to be in the bush, this holiday schedules 13 game drives in less than a fortnight.

Included as Standard

Airport VIP meet and greet, a bottle of wine on arrival, a spa treatment, a dedicated member of our team available 24/7, an upgrade at one of your chosen hotels and cars with Wi-Fi connectivity.

Everest Flight

With limited time to explore the mountain ranges why not treat yourself to a 60-minute scenic flight with Everest Express from Kathmandu. See Mt Everest up close without the many days of high altitude climbing that goes before. Everybody gets a window seat to view the highest mountain in the world. The excitement on board the flight is electric, and you can view the mountain range from the cockpit as the team points out the different peaks. If you sit on the left you will see Everest on the outbound journey.

Chitwan National Park

Until now Chitwan National Park has offered visitors functional accommodation. Since the closure of the lodges situated inside Chitwan, the options for quality wildlife experiences were limited. With the opening of Taj Safaris in a quieter location at Meghauli village, the bar has been raised again. Excellent sightings of rhino and gharial have been reported from the property. Taj offers two daily safaris in Taj designed 4×4 vehicles driven by your &Beyond naturalist – far more ergonomic than the standard gypsies. Apart from jeep safaris, Chitwan offers safaris on foot. Take a private walking safari in the community forest at Chitwan with your Taj naturalist. Be thrilled when sighting a one-horned rhino or other animals at close quarters. Although we no longer endorse elephant back safaris, be sure to spend time with the elephants at feeding and bathing times.

Rapti River

The Tharu people who inhabit the Himalayan foothills have traditionally travelled the many rivers by dug-out canoe made from a single log. You can still travel this ancient way as you explore the Rapti River of Chitwan National Park. These are hand rowed. During the ride, you will get great views of Chitwan National Park as well as all the birdlife on the banks of the river. The Marsh Mugger and Gharial crocodile are critically endangered and can be sighted on the Rapti River. The local Tharu farming villagers welcome a visit into their home, offering a cup of tea or something a little stronger! Try your hand at the potters’ wheel. The tribal villages are not in a major tourist zone so they enjoy getting to know visitors and share conversation.

A Day at Banjaar Tola

Kanha National Park in India offers good sightings in prime tiger country, with elegant five-star camping at Banjaar Tola, a luxury tented lodge deep in the wilderness. Game drives are twice a day, accompanied by your naturalist who is immensely knowledgeable. Thanks to the Taj naturalists, you learn so much about the jungle and the animals. The knowledge of local fauna and flora is exceptional. The vehicles are very big and spacious with racked seating for six, providing space. You may see other vehicles in the park crammed with people – that will never happen with Taj Safaris.

In between drives you get to enjoy your beautiful tent, the pool and be spoiled by Nim’s amazing cooking. Dinner every night is so special not just because of the food, but because you never know where you’ll be eating – in the bush, on your balcony, by the pool.

Whilst in Banjaar Tola, shake a leg with the tribal dancers over dinner. as this location is home to the Gond and Baiga tribes.

When to travel

India in January

January is a very popular time to travel to India, due to mild temperatures and very little rainfall. The climate varies across India from snow in the Northern States to the Southern regions experiencing daily sunshine – perfect for an escape to Kerala’s beaches.

India in February

During peak season, February is an ideal month to travel to India, experiencing all regions of the country from Rajasthan in the North to Karnataka in the South.

India in March

Temperatures begin to rise with March typically being the last month of the peak season. A significant month for religious, Hindu festivals, March can become busy in some regions however also a perfect time to travel to experience Indian culture and wildlife.

India in April

With temperatures starting to rise, regions in Northern India start to become more accessible with excellent opportunities to discover hiking trails and the wildlife of these regions. Temperatures can sometimes exceed 40°C, with high levels of humidity in Southern India.

India in May

From May to September, Monsoon rains affect the North and Central states of India with daily rainfall and thunderstorms. During the Monsoon season, it is best to experience high altitude regions and avoid beach resorts.

India in June

Most regions of India will experience the Monsoon season in June alongside high daily temperatures and high levels of humidity. Whilst, not a popular time to travel, experience the mountainous regions as opposed to Central India to experience slightly cooler temperatures at the start of the month.

India in July

At the peak of the Monsoon season, most of the country experiences frequent, heavy rainfall. Whilst travel plans may be interrupted due to the climate, it is a great time to visit India to experience the national parks and the great outdoors.

India in August

As the Monsoon continues, the climate is very similar to that of June and July. Whilst not a suitable time to travel to India’s Southern beaches, other Northern Regions are popular with locals for hiking and outdoor pursuits.

India in September

As the final month of the Monsoon season, rainfall will be less frequent with the occasional sunny spell showcasing the lush, green vegetation that has flourished during the heavy rains.

India in October

As the monsoon rains have finished, humidity levels remain high and the peak travel season begins. During the month of October, there are lots of religious festivals, including Diwali, where some regions may become busier with domestic tourists.

India in November

As one of the best times to visit the country, November brings comfortable temperatures for sightseeing with the monsoon rains dying out from October. As the temperatures drop, however, Northern India and the Himalayas will become less accessible.

India in December

In December, temperatures and climate will be dependant on the region. In the Southern States, India will see a pleasant and mild climate, ideal for sightseeing, whereas, in Northern India and mountainous regions, snow and cold temperatures are likely.