Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Safaris and the Taj Mahal
14days from
£3,260*per person
Overview
Newmarket Holidays is offering 10% off tours until Sunday, 9 November.
Itinerary
- Fly to Mumbai - Board your overnight flight for the journey to India.
- Arrive in Mumbai - Arrive in Mumbai, India’s largest city and be welcomed by your friendly local tour manager. The coach will take you to the first hotel, which is located near Nariman Point and looks out over the Arabian Sea. You can spend the rest of the day unwinding, perhaps having a drink in the lounge, with views of Marine Drive, or taking a dip in the swimming pool. Dinner will be enjoyed alongside your fellow travellers at the hotel.
- Tour of Mumbai - After breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Mumbai, visiting several of the city’s historical and cultural landmarks. Mani Bhavan, a museum, and historical building dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, will be the first stop. Serving as Gandhi’s headquarters for around 17 years, this mansion houses a library, a photo gallery, and a room where Gandhi stayed. You can view his spinning wheel and bed on the floor, as well as the terrace where he was arrested in 1932. The Prince of Wales Museum is next, and in this ornate building with detailed lattice work, around 50,000 artefacts documenting the history of India can be found. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formally known as the Victoria Terminus Station, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another striking structure, with its Victorian Gothic Revival architecture built over 10 years. As you move on, you'll experience the unique spectacle of Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry where skilled dhobis (laundry workers) wash, dry, and press clothes in a traditional manner. Originally constructed in 1890, the site is made up of more than 700 washing stations and from the sides, you can observe the massive scale of this age-old practice. The day’s exploration ends at the Gateway of India, a grand arch monument located on the waterfront of the city. It was constructed to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911 and served as the exit point for the last British troops leaving India. The evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace before joining the travellers for dinner.
- Flight to Nagpur, a 'tiger talk' with a naturalist and an evening nature walk - Following breakfast, check out of the hotel and travel to the airport for your flight to Nagpur, also called the ‘Tiger Capital of India’ as it connects many tiger reserves in the country to the world. It’s also known as the ‘Orange City’ due to its citrus fruit production. You’ll then leave the bustling city and head for the tranquil wilderness of Pench National Park, the Indian jungle that inspired the setting of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. Upon arrival at the resort set within the jungle, you’ll check in and get settled, perhaps enjoying a drink on your private veranda. In the evening, a local naturalist will give a fascinating ‘tiger talk’. This briefing will introduce you to the ecosystem of the park, shedding light on the diverse flora and fauna and its conservation efforts Dinner will then be served before you fall asleep to the sounds of the surrounding nocturnal animals.
- Morning and afternoon safaris in Pench National Park - Wake early this morning and board a Jeep for a safari in the wilderness of Pench National Park, an opportunity to explore the untamed landscapes alongside your knowledgeable naturalist guide. As the sun rises over the treetops, you’ll set off to witness the park’s incredible biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for the Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, wild dogs, and hyenas that call Pench home. Your naturalist will share their expertise, providing insights into the behaviour, habitats, and unique characteristics of the animals you encounter. Breakfast will then be served back at the lodge followed by some time to relax, perhaps by the swimming pool before lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll gear up for a safari, another chance to spot more animals on your wish-list and survey more of the prey-rich woodlands and 300 bird species that live around the Pench River. This evening, dinner will be enjoyed again at the camp’s restaurant.
- Afternoon safari in Kanha National Park, visit to a tribal village and evening walk with naturalists - Have breakfast, check out of the camp and travel to a different nature reserve, Kanha National Park, which also has ties to The Jungle Book and is known for its significant population of Bengal tigers. You’ll arrive at the lodge, set on the edge of the park, settle in, and enjoy some lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy your first safari with a naturalist. Kanha National Park's diverse landscapes offer different opportunities for wildlife sightings, ensuring that no two safaris are the same. As evening approaches, you’ll take a leisurely walk around the resort's surroundings, accompanied by the expertise of several naturalists. Their knowledge of the local flora and fauna will enhance your nature-inspired exploration. When the day comes to a close, you’ll join your fellow travellers for dinner.
- Afternoon safari in Kanha National Park - Begin today with an early morning safari, heading off to Kanha National Park in the company of your experienced naturalist in a Jeep. While the sun illuminates the dense forests and sprawling grassland, you can look out for the park’s inhabitants, including tigers, leopards, herds of deer, jackals, sloth bears, and an array of colourful bird species. Afterwards, you’ll return to the lodge for a well-deserved breakfast. The day will then unfold with lunch and some time to unwind by the swimming pool or at the wellness centre before you embark on a cultural excursion as you visit a nearby tribal village. Here, the group can interact with the locals and observe their way of life, traditions, and customs. As the sun sets on another day of adventuring, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner.
- Drive to Bandhavgarh and afternoon at leisure with optional activities - Breakfast will be early again as you’ll be packing up and travelling to Bandhavgarh National Park. During this journey, you’ll witness the transition from Kanha's lush forests to the rugged terrain that characterises Bandhavgarh. This biodiverse park and former royal hunting ground is known for having the highest density of Bengal tigers in India. You’ll check into a resort near the park, which blends into the natural backdrop, and after lunch, have the opportunity to partake in an assortment of in-house activities. Choose from bird-watching and guided nature walks or watch a ‘tiger talk’ led by knowledgeable experts and learn about how white tigers were first discovered in the park in 1951. Alternatively, you might choose to simply relax by the swimming pool, or on your private sundeck bounded by jungle scenery. Dinner will also be served at the lodge’s open-air multi-cuisine restaurant.
- Morning and afternoon safaris in Bandhavgarh National Park - Today will unfold with an early morning safari in Bandhavgarh National Park, guided by an expert naturalist. As dawn breaks, you’ll venture into the jungle in search of the reserve’s most elusive residents while the naturalist shares their expertise. Traverse rocky hills, bamboo forests, expansive grasslands and verdant waterholes, spotting mammals, like four-horned antelope and wild boar, and the varied assortment of birdlife, such as hornbills and peacocks. Back at the resort, you’ll have breakfast and some time to recharge before lunch and a second-afternoon safari to witness more of its inhabitants. In the evening, join everyone at the lodge’s restaurant and share your wildlife sightings from the day over dinner.
- Drive to Khajuraho and visit to Khajuraho temple complex - Once you’ve had breakfast, you’ll check out of the lodge and take a scenic drive to Khajuraho, a historic town famed for its three complexes of UNESCO-listed temples. Upon arriving at the refined hotel, there’ll be some time to refresh before heading out on an excursion to explore these exquisite structures, adorned with intricate and alluring sculptures. Constructed between 950AD and 1050AD and representing two separate religions, this ancient site encompasses around 22 of the original 85 structures. The temples are split into three main groups, with the western group being the most well-known and including the Temple of Kandariya, one of the greatest masterpieces of Indian art, as well as the granite Chaunsat Yogini Temple. As you’re led around, the guide will describe how the complex was forgotten and overgrown by the jungle until a British engineer discovered the existence of them in 1838. You’ll also learn about the history, mythology, and artistry that define these remarkable buildings. The group will then return to the hotel for dinner in the evening.
- Drive to Jhansi, lunch in Orchha and train to Agra - Enjoy breakfast, check out and board the coach for a journey to the ancient city of Jhansi in the region of Bundelkhand. On the way, you’ll stop for lunch in Orchha, a town steeped in history and known for its impressive forts, elegant palaces, and beautiful architecture. If time permits, you can experience an orientation tour, learning about its royal past and soaking up the old-world charm. Following the visit to Orchha, continue to Jhansi, where you'll board a train bound for Agra, on the banks of the Yamuna River. This journey along the tracks is the perfect way to take in the Indian countryside. From the train station in Agra, you’ll be driven to the hotel, a comfortable retreat amid the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Dinner will be served at the hotel, perhaps followed by a drink at the bar.
- Visit to Agra Fort, afternoon at leisure and sunset visit to the Taj Mahal - Have breakfast and then venture on an excursion to the royal pavilions, palaces, and courtyards of the majestic, red sandstone Agra Fort. From this 16th-century fortress set on the Yamuna River, you’ll experience your first view of the incomparable Taj Mahal and its gardens. Explore the intricate maze of structures within the fort as you learn about how it served as the residence of Mughal emperors for over three centuries. This UNESCO-World Heritage Site was constructed in the 16th century by Emperor Akbar and later expanded by his successors. The afternoon will then be free to return to the hotel and relax or embark on some self-exploration around Agra, perhaps shopping in the markets or seeking out more of the sights. When dusk comes around, the group will continue to the Taj itself, and you’ll get to see the famed monument of eternal love up close, glistening, and golden as the sun sets. This ivory-white marble mausoleum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, encircled by expansive Mughal gardens, is one of the greatest architectural achievements and a wish-list spectacle. Completed in 1648 and built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, it’s renowned for its Mughal design and elements, including a central dome, minarets, and reflecting pool. Later in the evening, you’ll return to the hotel for your final dinner.
- Morning at leisure, optional sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, drive to Delhi and flight back to the UK - Savour your final breakfast and a morning at leisure, perhaps taking advantage of the hotel’s range of amenities. You also have the option to return to the Taj Mahal at dawn, a time of day when its façade transforms into a pinkish shade while the sun rises. The contrasting shadows and light cast across the monument and the enclosing grounds is an incredible sight. Back at the hotel, you’ll check out and board the coach for Delhi. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport with a stop at the Lotus Temple, a Bahá'í House of Worship. Renowned for its unique lotus flower-inspired design, this temple, ringed by beautiful gardens, is open to people of all faiths, religions, and backgrounds. A farewell dinner will be enjoyed at a local restaurant before the flight.
- Arrive back to UK - You’ll touchdown in the UK today after your holiday.
What's Included
Holiday Highlights
- Discover Mumbai on a guided tour with visits to Mani Bhavan, the Prince of Wales Museum, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and Dhobi Ghat
- Fly to Nagpur, the ‘Tiger Capital of India’, listen to a ‘tiger talk’ and embark on an evening nature walk through Pench National Park
- Venture into Pench National Park on morning and afternoon safaris in search of Bengal tigers
- Experience an evening nature walk through Kanha National Park with naturalists
- Visit a tribal village and observe its way of life, traditions, and customs
- Journey on morning and afternoon safaris in the heart of Kanha National Park
- Choose from bird-watching and guided nature walks or watch a ‘tiger talk’ at the resort in Bandhavgarh
- Set off on morning and afternoon safaris in Bandhavgarh National Park, surveying the grasslands and waterholes
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Khajuraho temple complex, admiring the intricate and alluring sculptures
- Stop for lunch in the historic town of Orchha, observing its architectural splendours
- Wander around the 16th-century Agra Fort with its sandstone ramparts and maze of structures
- Visit the Taj Mahal, a famed monument of eternal love and architectural achievement at sunset
- Join an optional excursion to see the Taj Mahal as the sun rises over the mausoleum and grounds
- See the Lotus Temple, a Bahá'í House of Worship, renowned for its unique lotus flower-inspired design
Our Price Includes
- Five nights’ half board and six nights’ full board accommodation in a series of hotels, lodges, and camps in Mumbai (2 nights), Pench (2), Kanha (2), Bandhavgarh (2), Khajuraho (1) and Agra (2), plus two nights on the aircraft
- 11 breakfasts, six lunches, and 12 dinners
- Porterage at all hotels
- Tour of Mumbai
- Talk with a naturalist in Pench National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park
- Morning and afternoon safaris in Pench National Park, Kanha National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park
- Visit to a tribal village and an evening walk with naturalists in Kanha National Park
- Visit to the Khajuraho temple complex
- Visit to Agra Fort
- Sunset visit to the Taj Mahal
- Train journey to Agra
- Visit to the Lotus Temple in Dehli
- Return flights to Mumbai and from Delhi and an internal flight to Nagpur
- Transfers throughout
- Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager and naturalists
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Dates and Prices
Other Information
Taj Mahal restoration work
The white marble of the Taj Mahal is being gradually cleaned in a process that will take up to four years. Parts of the monument's surface may be covered during this process though your visit and access to the main dome is not likely to be restricted.
Domestic Flights in India
These are generally provided with airlines such as Air India, Indigo and SpiceJet. Service on board usually includes the option to purchase drinks and snacks. Baggage allowance is 20kgs per person - the opportunity to purchase extra allowance is possible at check in at the airport.
Special requirements
If you have notified us of any special requirements, please check that they have been noted and acknowledged. This is especially important with any dietary needs you may have.
Assisted travel
The majority of our tours involve a certain amount of walking, including a short walk from the coach stop to the venue you're visiting.
For this tour specifically, it is important to note:
- Anyone with limited mobility may struggle to experience the itinerary to its full.
- Historic sites and temples are not well equipped for those with mobility considerations.
- Should you have walking difficulties, getting around may be harder and, in some cases, impossible.
This tour is therefore not recommended for those with limited mobility.
If you have any queries, please do contact us prior to travel.
Changes to your hotels
Should circumstances require, we reserve the right to accommodate you in alternative hotels, of a similar standard, nearby. Full details of your hotels will be sent with your Final Travel Documents.
Road conditions
In developing countries road networks are continually being improved and expanded, which can mean that, from time to time, roadworks and rough road surfaces can extend journey times. Some journeys are made on winding mountain roads and passes, which may also make for slow travelling - although the scenery is usually worth it! Many roads do not have separate pavements or safety barriers, and great care should be taken when crossing or walking alongside roads.
Outbound flights
All outbound flights leave in the evening and land at your destination the next day. All return flights leave in the morning and land in the UK on the same day. On-board meals will usually include dinner and breakfast on outbound flights, and lunch and a snack on the flight home. Drinks are complimentary.
Itinerary changes
Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may have to change the order of the excursions on your holiday. The final day-by-day itinerary will be confirmed on your Final Travel Documents, which you will receive approximately three weeks prior to your departure.
Terms and conditions
Maximum 10% discount applies to a selection of tours. All other holidays and tours will have up to 10% applied. This offer applies to new bookings only booked between 1st October, 2025 and 9th November, 2025 and cannot be applied retrospectively to bookings already confirmed. This offer does not apply to child pricing. The offer does not apply to holidays with late availability pricing and excludes Festive, River Cruise, Edinburgh Tattoo, André Rieu events, Lapland and Wimbledon. This offer cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any other discount, promotion or concession. When booking a holiday as described above, prices shown will automatically have the discount applied. The discount applies to the original tour price (excluding any discounts already applied, extras and holiday insurance) at the time of booking. This offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Newmarket Holidays reserves the right to cancel, change or amend any tour. Holidays booked with Newmarket Holidays, are financially protected in accordance with ABTA, ATOL & ABTOT regulations. Newmarket Holidays Limited is a company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 02238316.
Holiday code
N2527Holiday provided by Newmarket Holidays
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Newmarket Holidays (ABTOT 5509, ATOL 2325, ABTA V7812), you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.