TIEGRS AND TREE HOUSES BASED ON QATAR AIRWAYS

Tailor made Programme By ROYAL EXPEDITIONS

Bandhavgarh National Park – Jungles of central India written about in Rudyard Kipling “Jungle Book”. Plenty to see in this small park (168 Sq miles) set around a historic site, with carvings, temples and fort. It has highest concentration of tigers in tourist zone, who are vehicle friendly.

Satpura National Park – It has the wildlife riches of India’s more famous national parks, including sloth bears, leopards and tigers – all it lacks is the crowds. Established in 1977, it covers more than 1400 Sq Kms of prime land yet it one of the lesser known national parks. It is an area of great scenic beauty defined by the Satpura hills. A hidden jewel of Central India.

Pench National Park - Pench has been included under the umbrella of Project Tiger as the 19th Project Tiger Reserve. Located in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh comprises of 758 sq. kms, out of which a core area of 299-sq-km is the National Park and 464-km the buffer area of Southern Indian tropical moist deciduous forest mixed with tropical dry deciduous teak bearing forests and dry mixed deciduous forest. With the three types of forest a diversity of fauna abound within this natural system. 39 species of mammals, 13 species of reptiles, 3 species of amphibians and over 170 varieties of birds have already been listed.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Search for elusive tigers with top naturalists in 4WD Jeeps • Expert local naturalists at all the parks • Long distance transportation in comfortable Vehicles • Stay in certified small eco-friendly tree houses, with all modern comforts • Three Premier Tiger Reserves – Pench, Satpura and Bandhavgarh

• Living cultures of the region – Visit a tribal village in Bandhavgarh

• Travel on Indian Railways

• Opportunity to walk, canoe & cycle in the jungle book County side

• Night drives in the park buffer zone

QUICK REFERENCE ITINERARY

Days Sectors

Day 1 Arrive Delhi

Day 2 Delhi / Jabalpur / Bandhavgarh

Day 3 Bandhavgarh

Day 4 Bandhavgarh

Day 5 Bandhavgarh / Katni / Pipariya / Satpura

Day 6 Satpura

Day 7 Satpura

Day 8 Satpura / Pench

Day 9 Pench

Day 10 Pench

Day 11 Pench / Nagpur / Departure

MAP

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 Arrive Delhi

On arrival at the Indira Gandhi International airport, proceed for Immigration clearance after disembarking. Thereafter collect baggage from the baggage carousel and walk to the Arrivals Lounge after clearing customs. You will be greeted by our company representative, with a placard bearing your name on it. He will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to the hotel. (Check in time at hotel will be is 1400 hrs and check out at 12 noon) Remainder of the day at leisure at the hotel Overnight at Roseate House - Standard Roseate House is located just 10 minutes away from the Delhi airport. The full service, upscale property is spread across an area of 1.6 acres and is designed specially to match the evolving needs of the new generation cosmopolitan guests. This property also embodies the brand philosophy of showcasing a new spectrum of hospitality. Well balanced modernity and effervescent atmosphere offers a contrasting respite from the city's hustle and bustle. Day 2 Delhi / Jabalpur / Bandhavgarh

Morning transfer to the airport to board flight for Jabalpur Delhi / Jabalpur - Spice Jet – SG 2641 – 1010 hrs / 1200 hrs (Reporting time for domestic flight is at least 1.5 hour prior to flight departure time) Meeting and assistance on arrival at Jabalpur airport and drive to Bandhavgarh National Park (205 kms, 4 – 4.5 hrs) On arrival at Bandhavgarh, check into your lodge

Evening at leisure Overnight at Tree House Hideaway – Tree House Tree House Hideaway: On and among the trees in our five tree houses there is a route to hide away of fantasies. In the 21 acres area of land lies an option of experiencing the snug life inside the rooms or venture out in the tiger-infested wild. The property has its resident species of birds, reptiles and animals residing around the forest trees and over time the area has now become a small secure park for them. You can spend your time unseen and undisturbed in the intimacy of your room or choose to go looking for wild animals & birds in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Wednesdays - Bandhavgarh National Park is closed on Wednesdays for afternoon Game Drive. A nature walk with a local village visit will be organized in place of the Wednesday afternoon games drive.

Day 3 Bandhavgarh

Early morning assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive accompanied by local naturalist. Morning are cold inside the forest and slowly warms up as the sun rises, we will be provided blankets by the lodge to keep your legs warm. Return to lodge for a late breakfast around 10 AM. Afternoon jungle excursion by 4WD jeeps accompanied by local naturalist Overnight at Lodge Day 4 Bandhavgarh

Early morning after breakfast, proceed for a nature walk in the park buffer area and the local villages in the park buffer area Return to lodge around 10 AM. Afternoon jungle excursion by 4WD jeeps accompanied by local naturalist Overnight at Lodge Day 5 Bandhavgarh / Katni / Pipariya / Satpura Early morning transfer to Katni Railway station on time to board train to Pipariya (97 Kms. 2.5 hrs approx.) DBG LTT Express - 0825 hrs / 1153 hrs – 2ND Class Air Conditioned Sleeper On arrival at Piparia, transfer to Satpura (50 Kms. 1.5 hrs approx.) Arrive at Satpura and check into your lodge Afternoon at leisure. After an early dinner, proceed for night drive by four wheeled drive vehicle accompanied by local naturalist

Overnight at Denwa Backwater Escape – Tree House Denwa Backwater Escape is located overlooking the mesmerizing backwaters of a dam built on Denwa River in Satpura National Park, the area is popularly known as Madhai.It is built on 10 acres of forested land along the river and across the river lies the national park which is approached by a boat and then by jeeps to go deeper into the forest. The lodge offers stunning views of the Denwa River, grasslands and rolling Pachmari hills. Day 6 Satpura Early morning assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive / Canoe ride /Boat safari/ Elephant safari accompanied by local naturalist. Return to lodge for a late breakfast Afternoon proceed for a nature walk / boat safari in the park buffer zone Overnight at Lodge Wednesdays - Satpura National Park is closed on Wednesdays for afternoon Game Drive.

Day 7 Satpura Early morning assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive / Canoe ride /Boat safari/ Elephant safari accompanied by local naturalist. Return to lodge for a late breakfast Afternoon at leisure Overnight at Lodge Day 8 Satpura / Pench Early morning assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive / Canoe ride /Boat safari/ Elephant safari accompanied by local naturalist. Return to lodge for a late breakfast After lunch drive to Pench (335 Kms. 6.5 hrs approx.) On arrival check in to lodge Overnight at Pench Tree Lodge – Tree House Note: Pench National Park remains closed for game drives on Wednesday afternoons Pench Tree Lodge: Your luxurious abode in the jungle is perched on top of the Mahua trees and supported by stilts. Large French windows allow for an uninterrupted view of the deciduous forest and grassland and lets you observe the multitude of birds, butterflies and the wild animals at the lodge. Our guests have so far seen wild boars, civets, jungle cats, jackals and spotted deer as they sat sipping their morning tea or

the evening sundowner on the private deck. Breaking away from the monotony of oft repeated safari lodgings, they have been designed with an eclectic mix of vintage and natural aesthetics. Day 9 Pench Early morning assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive by open top 4WD exclusive jeep accompanied by English speaking lodge naturalist who sometimes is also the driver besides the local park guide. Return to Lodge around 1030 AM. Afternoon free at leisure or enjoy a nature walk / cycle in the park buffer zone / Visit local tribal market. Overnight at Lodge Day 10 Pench Morning at leisure or enjoy a nature walk/ cycle in the park buffer zone Afternoon set off for a game drive by open top 4WD exclusive jeep accompanied by English speaking lodge naturalist who sometimes is also the driver besides the local park guide. Overnight at Lodge Day 11 Pench / Nagpur / Departure Early morning assemble for tea / coffee and then set off for a game drive by open top 4WD exclusive jeep accompanied by English speaking lodge naturalist who sometimes is also the driver besides the local park guide. After lunch drive (2.5 hrs. approx.) to Nagpur On arrival check in to Le Meridien where room will reserved till departure Later transfer to Airport on time to board flight to Doha (Reporting time at international airport is at least three hours prior to flight departure time) Nagpur / Doha – Qatar Airways (QR 591) – 0350 hrs / 1620 hrs

End of services

Note: All information in this itinerary is accurate to the best of our knowledge but please note that changes to our trips

do occur. This may be due to our effort to improve our program or logistical reasons such as changes in train/flight

schedules, traffic conditions, weather conditions, or government policies. Royal Expeditions will make every effort to keep

you informed of any changes but cannot be held liable for any alterations made to the published itinerary.

TOUR COST Cost is valid from 15 Oct 2017 to 15 June 2018 (Except 20 Dec 2017 to 15 Jan 2018)

Tour Cost – When 2, 4, 6, 8 & 10 persons are travelling together and staying on

double share

2 pax on twin sharing GBP 2095 per person on twin share

4 pax on twin sharing GBP 2080 per person on twin share

6 pax on twin sharing GBP 2310 per person on twin share

8 pax on twin sharing GBP 2260 per person on twin share

10 pax on twin sharing GBP 2210 per person on twin share

Single room supplement: GBP 790 per single room

Airfares:

Delhi / Jabalpur GBP 80** per person in economy class

**Please note that the above mentioned airfares are advance purchase, non-static, dynamic fares that keep changing on a daily basis unless purchased and is subject to demand and supply

CITY HOTELS

Delhi Roseate House (Standard Room)

Bandhavgarh Tree House Hideaway (Tree House)

Satpura Denwa Backwater Escape (Tree House)

Pench Pench Tree Lodge ( Tree House)

Nagpur Le Meridien (Deluxe)

Inclusive of: Non-inclusive of:

• Accommodation in the above

mentioned hotels / lodges in double /

twin share

• Breakfast at the hotel in Delhi

• All meals at Bandhavgarh, Satpura &

Pench

• Train fare from Katni to Pipariya on

Second Class Air Conditioned sleeper

carriage

• Transport by Toyota Innova or similar

as per the itinerary

• Domestic airfares (mentioned

separately)

• International Airfares

• Indian Visa

• Cost for accompanying guide when only 2 & 4 pax are travelling

• Dinner on the day of arrival

• Travel & Health insurance

• Other meals where not mentioned in

the program

• Any drinks/water at any place.

General Conditions: The price are on Per Person basis in GBP, Net & Non commissionable All prices are subject to any revision of taxes, fuel prices, currency fluctuations and tariff structure.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL PARKS

BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK

Bandhavgarh (pronounced Bandogarh) is not very far from Rewa, famous as the original home of the (albino) white tiger, but now found only in zoos. Before becoming National Park in 1968, it was the game reserve of the Maharajas of Rewa. Though it involves quite a journey one might be rewarded with sighting one of the few tigers left in wild. The Park is set in extremely rugged terrain with many hills. The marshes which used to be perennial now support a vast grassland savannah. There are also interesting cave shrines scattered around the park, with Brahmi inscriptions dating from the 1st century BC. One can visit the archaeological remains of a fort believed to be 2000 years old. Bandhavgarh has been a centre of human activity and settlement for over 2000 years. The oldest signs of habitation in the park are the sandstone to the north of the fort. Several contain Brahmin inscription dating from 1st century B.C. Caves. From that time onwards Bandhavgarh was ruled by succession of dynasties including the Chandela kings of Bundelkhand who built the famous temples at Khajuraho. The Park has a very rich biodiversity; it is a Moist Deciduous Forest. The vegetation is chiefly of Sal forest in the valleys and on the lower slopes, gradually changing to mixed deciduous forest on the hills and in the hotter drier areas of the park in the south and west. The wide valleys along the streams carry long linear grasslands flanked by Sal forests. Rich mixed forests consisting of Sal (shorea rubusta), Saja, Salai, and Dhobin etc. with dense bamboo thickets occur in many places. These together provide Bandhavgarh its rich biodiversity. With the tiger at the apex of the food chain, it contains 37 species of mammals, more than 250 species of birds, about 70 species of butterflies, a number of reptiles. The richness and tranquillity of grasslands invites pairs of Sarus Cranes to breed in the rainy season. One of the biggest attractions of this national park is the tiger and its sightings. Bandhavgarh has a very high density of tigers within the folds of its jungles. The 105 km² of park area open for tourist was reported to have 22 Tigers, a density of one tiger for every 4.77 km². There is a saying about the

• Services of local naturalist at

Bandhavgarh, Satpura & Pench.

• Game drives by shared jeep as per

itinerary.

• Accompanying English speaking guide for 6, 8 & 10 pax

• Presently applicable taxes

• All international /domestic airport

taxes

• Hotel early check in / Late check out

• Overweight luggage

• Personal expenses – mineral water,

telephone calls, laundry, etc

• Tips & gratuities

• CAMERA FEES

• Other services/activities which are not

listed in inclusive column

Park that goes: "In any other Park, You are lucky if you see a tiger. In Bandhavgarh, you are unlucky if you don't see (at least) one." Bandhavgarh tiger reserve is densely populated with other species: the gaur or Indian bison are now extinct or migrated elsewhere; sambar and barking deer are a common sight, and nilgai are to be seen in the open areas of the park. There has been reporting of wolf (canis lupus) hyena and the caracal the latter being an open country dweller. The tiger reserve abounds with cheetal or the spotted deer (axis axis) which is the main prey base of the tiger and the leopard (panthera leo pardus). Birds commonly seen are White browed fantails, steppe eagles, green pigeons, blossom headed parakeets, parakeets, blue bearded bee eaters, green bee eaters, white bellied drongos, owls, Jerdon's and gold fronted leaf birds, minivets, woodshrikes and the lovely paradise flycatchers are common here. Grey malabar hornbills, black and white malabar hornbills are among the rare species found here.

FACTS

Jungle Excursions: By Jeeps mainly. Park Timings: Sunrise to 1000 am and 3 Pm to Sunset. Open from November to June. Viewing is good throughout the year. May and June are very hot. Getting there: By Road – 6 hrs from Khajuraho, 6 hrs from Kanha National Park By Air – Khajuraho is well connected to Delhi, Varanasi and Agra. Jabalpur – 4 hrs. Train: It is well connected by Train from Delhi from nearby Umaria (1 hr drive) and Katni (2 hrs drive) Railway stations.

SATPURA TIGER RESERVE

Central India’s Satpura Tiger Reserve is part of one of the largest contiguous blocks of forest left in India and is still (just!) connected to other Reserves by forest 'corridors'. It therefore represents the largest block of tiger-inhabited tiger habitat left in the world. It gets the name from Satpura hill ranges (Mahadeo hills). It covers an area of 524 km². Satpura National Park, and along with the adjoining Bori and Panchmarhi Sanctuaries, provides 1427 km² of unique Central Indian Highland ecosystem. The terrain is generally hilly with precipitous slopes, deep and narrow gorges ravines sheltered valleys and dense forests with many water falls. The altitude ranges from 300 m to 1352 m. It has Dhoopgarh peak as high as 4500 feet (1400 m) and the almost level plains of Churna. Tawa reservoir created on the Tawa River extending over an area of 200 sq km is the main water source. The area is uniquely diverse ranging from dry thorn forest to tropical dry deciduous, moist deciduous and semi evergreen forests. Teak, sal and mixed forest are the major compositions. The Bori wildlife sanctuary is rich in Bamboo. The fauna comprises tiger, leopard, sambar, chital, Bhedki, nilgai, four-horned antelope, chinkara, bison (gour), wild boar, wild dog, bear, black buck, fox, porcupine, flying squirrel, mouse deer, Indian joint squirrel etc. The flora of the national park consists of mainly sal, teak, tendu, aonla, mahua, bel, bamboo, and a variety of grasses and medicinal plants. Over 1200 varieties of flowering and non flowering plants are found in this area.

Among the birds represented are Jungle Fowl, Quail, Patridges, Bee-eaters, Eagles, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Vultures etc. One is also attracted by a large variety of colourful butterflies, moths and other insects. Madai, Churna, Bori, Dhal and Paraspani are some of the areas of viewing wildlife. The Satpuras supports globally important populations of some of Asia’s rarest animals and birds including the Forest Spotted Owlet Athene blewitti, Green Munia Amandava formosa, Tiger Panthera tigris, Rusty Spotted Cat Felis rubiginosa, Caracal Felis caracal and Barasingha Cervus duvauceli that are to be found here. The northern Satpuras harbour an endangered arboreal mammal, the Indian Giant Squirrel Ratufa indica centralis. Other mammals include Common Giant Flying Squirrel Petaurista petaurista, Palm civet Paradoxurus hermaphroditus, Ratel Mellivora capensis, Indian Porcupine Hystrix indica and Otter Lutra persipicillata. The Satpuras feed 50 rivers. The nearest town to the national park is Pachmarhi and the The state capital Bhopal is situated at a distance of 210 km. Park Highlights Unique Tiger Parks here we can walk, hike, Canoe in Prime Tiger habitat. Park is known for its Leopard and Sloth Bear sightings. Game drives are taken in the early morning and late afternoon in small 4WD open top vehicles called 'gypsy' that seat 2 to 4 visitors plus driver and naturalists. One has to cross over by boat to the Park for the Game drives. Boat safari in Canoes two guests and one guide who is re trained and re oriented fisherman. Elephant Safari duration of an hour in side the Park is possible subject to park elephants being free as they also used for monitoring tigers. Photographers can hire elephant for a day to track tigers by paying for special permit. USD 800 ++. Added advantage of this permission is that you enter and exit park 15 minutes before and after all the other tourists. Park is connected by air from commercial airport Bhopal 4 hrs drive away Charter planes can land in airfield 45 minutes away from Park. The nearest railhead is Piparia at a distance of 55 km.

PENCH NATIONAL PARK Pench National Park is lesser know but most conveniently located Tiger habitat. Only 2 hrs driving distance from well connected Nagpur Airport. Panoramic beauty of this region that has been described as early as the beginning of the 20th century by naturalists like Captain J. Forsyth in ‘Highlands of Central India' and by Rudyard Kipling in the 'Jungle Book'. Park takes its name from Pench River. The Park has mainly Southern tropical dry deciduous and dry mixed deciduous forest dominated by teak trees. During the dry season the river ceases to flow, forming pools which provide the primary watering holes for Tigers and its prey. On the southern boundary of the park the river is dammed and around its banks are hordes of water-birds. Mugger Indian Marsh crocodile, Indian Flap Shell Turtle and Peninsular Black Turtle can also been seen. Almost all the animals seen in Kanha NP, except barasingha are in habitants of Pench like Gaur, Wild Boar and Common Langurs, Sambar,

Spotted and Barking Deer. With luck we might also see sloth bear, Dhole (wild dog), or even a Leopard which are generally seen in the peripheral areas of the parkwhere they can more easily avoid Tigers. Brilliant birdlife over 170 species recorded here. Park Highlights Most conveniently located Tiger habitat. Only 2.5 hrs driving distance from well connected Nagpur Airport that has morning and evening flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Hydrabad, Bangalore. And also international flights to Europe via Middle East. Panoramic beauty of this Forest was described by Rudyard Kipling in the 'Jungle Book'. This is same forest of Seoni Game drives are taken in the early morning and late afternoon in small 4WD open top vehicles called 'gypsy' that seat 2 to 4 visitors plus driver and naturalists. Park Authorities organize when ever feasible as part of a morning game drive tiger viewing from elephant back. The elephant is greatest off road vehicle ever invented and you will find yourself ambling along at a gentle rolling pace.

EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING Casual clothing is the order of the day. Hard wearing, easy to wash travel clothes are ideal. We may wish to pack one set of slightly smarter clothes to wear at the hotels. Laundry service will be available at all the places we stay. Early morning can be cold (November to March) until the sun is up especially on game drives, in open top Jeeps and in the jungle. A light windproof or fleece jacket, warm hat, gloves and scarf are recommended. During the day we will need a wide brimmed sun hat and sunglasses. Lightweight, comfortable walking shoes are advised for throughout the holiday and for sightseeing. Special note: No bright colours in the field please, including brightly coloured clothes, hats, gloves, etc. Although the birds and other wildlife are relatively approachable, muted colours are essential to improve our chances. We should bring a pair of binoculars in good repair. If we are keen birders we may want to bring a spotting scope. We should bring all the camera equipment, spare batteries and film that you will need. For digital camera users bring sufficient memory cards and storage. If we are using rechargeable batteries you will need to bring our charger and a travel adapter (round two pin). Plastic bags, cotton bags or pillowcases are useful to protect our camera equipment from dust and sand. A small daypack/camera bag is essential for carrying excess clothing, camera equipment and a water bottle. FACTS: Jungle Excursions: By 4 wheel drive jeeps accompanied by local naturalist Park Timings: Sunrise to 1000 am and 3 Pm to Sunset. Open from November to June. Viewing is good throughout the year. May and June are very hot. ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS TO PRE BOOK GAME DRIVES IN NATIONAL PARK

Limited numbers of visitors are allowed inside the National Parks. Booking is done on first cum first serve basis. Therefore, we would request you to please send us the following information at the earliest in order to enable us to book game drives or a scanned copy of the relevant pages of the passports.

Salutation (Mr/Mrs/Miss) Passport Number First Name as per Passport Date of Issue of Passport

Last Name as per Passport Date of Expiry of Passport

Nationality Place of Issue of Passport

Date of Birth

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

We have provided the information below to answer some of the journey-specific questions that are most frequently asked by Travelers to Indian Subcontinent. Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions. Traveling Styles for your tour

• Escorted Private Journey: This journey is a private experience that includes your party, as well as a English speaking Royal Expeditions guide/naturalist and/or trip leader. Your full time Guide will meet you at the airport to escort you throughout your private journey. He will arrange the logistics of your trip, including meals, hotel reservations, sites and activities, as well as providing you with information about the local region. Most guides are locals of the region where they work. They are excited to share their knowledge about local culture.

• Private Journey: The true face and heroes of Royal Expeditions, our local guides have been rigorously selected for their combination of client servicing, local knowledge, and likeable personalities. Most of our guides are natives of the regions they cover and have worked with Royal Expeditions for years, appreciating the difference in our service standards, responsible tourism approach, and the exceptional clients we bring. The guides you have will be licensed guides. They will meet you at your hotel in most instances. From there the guide will accompany you in your car / or walk with you for the tour

From the moment you arrive in India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka you will be assisted by our extensive ground network. At each destination our local representative will meet you at the airport or railway station, escort you to your private vehicle and driver and help you check into your hotel or lodge. When you arrive by car also in cities our representative will be awaiting for you to help you check into your hotel or lodge and brief you on activities schedule for you.

Our representatives:

• Will advise the pick-up time for any tours you have booked.

• Will be available at most times, in case you need to contact him/her for any reason

• Will re-confirm your on-going airline booking; however it is your responsibility to make sure

the representative carries out this job

• Will advise on the exchange rate and where to exchange money

• Will advise the best places to eat and shop

• Will advise and book any additional tour you may wish to take

• Will re-arrange your itinerary should there be a strike or airline schedule change or any other

changes beyond your control

• Will provide you mobile numbers of your Guide, Driver and Emergency 24/7 Number of Local

office.

Getting around India:

Air Travel

Air networks are extensive in India and are often the best way to quickly move from one region to another and allow itineraries to see the vastly different geography of India. There are many internal airlines operating in India. The most common airlines, however, are Air India, Spicejet, Jet Airways, Jetlite, Indigo. The aircraft are typically Boeing 737's , Airbuses A320, Bombardier Q 400 and ATR.

In the tourist routes India has many multi-stop flights (or hopping flights) on key North Indian tourist routes (e.g. Delhi - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Agra – Delhi, Delhi – Jaipur – Jodhpur – Udaipur - Mumbai). These are flights that may on and off-load passengers at several destinations before arriving at the final stop. If you are joining these flights anywhere other than the city of origin, you will experience 'free seating' which means that there are no pre-allocated seats and you just choose a seat as you board the aircraft.

In India some times there are delays, schedule changes and cancellations with little or no warning. Should this happen to you, our staff will do their best to ensure as small a deviation as possible from the original itinerary. They will discuss the best possible solutions with you and will do all they can to get you to your destination on the correct day. This may involve a route change or destination change in some instances. This can be trying, but it is important that you bear these possibilities in mind when flying in our Indian Sub-Continent.

Road Travel

Using a private car and driver is one of the best ways to see India. It allows your itinerary great flexibility and having a driver on stand-by allows you to go where you want, when you want without having to deal with the compulsory haggling over the price with a taxi, tuktuk, rickshaw etc.

Most of the time your car is likely to be an Ambassador, Tata Indica or Indigo, Toyota Innova, Mahindra Xylo and Fortuner. All cars have air-conditioning. If you would like to travel by Mercedes Benz / Audi, BMW Cars this can also be arranged in most areas at additional cost which is high.

For first time visitors road travel can be pretty hair-raising, as the roads are poor compare to western countries! The new highways like Delhi to Agra and Delhi to Jaipur, Mumbai to Puna, Jaipur to Udaipur are comparable to western standard and have duel carriage ways. Some country roads have no central dividers and there are no restrictions on vehicle types, pedestrians, livestock, cycles, camels, elephants or any other form of transportation. However, after some time you will realize there is a order between the different users of the road, it is the best way to get around and we supply excellent local drivers used to these unique conditions. Our cars do have ice box well stocked with soft drinks

and bottled water. On long drives the drivers will know of good quality hotels to stop at for meal and amenities breaks.

Train Travel

The India Railway System is the world's fourth largest with a route length of over 60,000 km. Every day over 7,000 passenger trains run carrying over 10.5 million passengers and connecting 7,100 stations. It is also the world's largest single employer with just over 1.6 million employees. A train journey is recommended as part of an itinerary as it offers an insight into the way most Indian locals travel.

A factor to consider with Indian trains is that getting there is not always half the fun, but it is certainly 90% of the experience. Indian rail travel is unlike any other sort of travel in any other place on earth. At times it can be uncomfortable or incredibly frustrating (since the trains are not exactly fast) but an experience it certainly is.

Indian train classes are usually the following:

The First-class A/c - is the most expensive and the highest train travel class in India. The fare is nearly as much as air travel. It is a comfortable way to travel. It has private four or two person compartment with a locking door in an air-conditioned carriage. Only people that have reservation are allowed on the carriage. Unfortunately you can not pre-book or pre-reserve the accurate cabin configuration, so we can not tell you exactly the configuration you will have. Bed linen (Hand towel, pillow, two bed sheets and one ) is provided is. There is a common western style toilet at both ends of the carriage. Fixed Indian Meals can be orders it will be served in the compartment. The order taker visits each comportment few hours before each meal. Breakfast orders are taken at night. Payment for meals are made at the end of the Journey. At regular intervals Tea / Coffee, bottled water, Aerated drinks venders visit the carriage. First class air-conditioned is definitely the best bet on long distance trains, unfortunately not all trains have this class.

The Second-class A/c - is the second highest category of train class in India. It has two seats of two beds facing each other with two seats in the hall, in an air-conditioned carriage There are curtains that you pull to get some privacy. The big advantage of the Second class A/c over normal Second class besides being air-conditioning and getting bed linen, no one without a prior reservation is allowed on the carriage. There is a common both Indian and western style toilet at both ends of the carriage. Fixed Indian Meals orders are taken and served in the compartment. The attendant visits each comportment few hours before each meal. Breakfast orders are taken at night. Payment for meals are made at the end of the Journey. At regular intervals Tea / Coffee, bottled water, Aerated drinks venders visit the carriage. Most of the Indian middle class travel in this class.

Executive chair car - this is available on the Shatabdi express trains that run between Delhi and Agra, Jaipur, Chandigarh, between Bombay and Ahemdabad, and between Bangalore and Mysore, Madras. Travelling executive chair is similar to taking business class flight. You have a wider seat, more legroom, complimentary mineral water and tolerable food (although we would recommend you take your own with you for the journey to be safe).

Air-conditioned chair car - this is the standard class available on the Shatabdi express trains mentioned above and also on the Intercity trains such as the one between Jaipur and Jodhpur.

Meals

Meals are included, as listed in your itinerary. We strive to arrange meals that highlight authentic local cuisine in clean, local establishments. In small towns, remote areas, and on the road, we dine on Mix of continental and local cuisine in small restaurants, local homes or at your campsite. While some of our meals may be somewhat different from that to which many guests are accustomed, Royal Expeditions believes in offering the opportunity to experience this vital aspect of local culture.

It is safe to drink bottled mineral water, but tap water, even in 5-star hotels, is not safe for drinking. Royal Expeditions will provide bottled water throughout your road journey.

Health

Please contact your local international travel clinic for information regarding inoculations and other relevant health-related information. No inoculation is mandatory for visit to Indian Sub-continent. Many immunizations require at least a minimum of 10-14 days before becoming effective and should be obtained prior to traveling to Indian Sub-continent.

Travel Health Insurance - Always travel with Travel health insurance. We recommends that you bring a photocopy of your medical insurance also.

Medical emergency evacuation Insurance: Royal Expeditions offers all its travelers an option to purchase through Royal Expeditions an Emergency medical evacuation Service Plan, which provides for emergency evacuation by air or road to the nearest medical facility of international standards. The plan costs US$15 Per Week, which will can be added to your final payment. Please note: this is NOT medical insurance but a facility to get you quickly and safely to a medical facility of international standard.

Safety: In general, Indian Sub-continent is a very safe. Most locals will be friendly and excited to meet you. But while traveling on crowded trains or visiting busy tourist sites, it is advisable to look after personal belongings, especially money, cameras or other valuable possessions. Though locals are friendly, tourists are often targets for petty theft. Most hotels / lodges will electronic safe deposit boxes in the room or have one at the reception.

Passports & Visas

All visitors to India require a valid passport. A visa for entry to India is required by most nationalities.

Weather

Monsoon Rain - Mid-June to mid-September.

Generally hot and humid. Rainfall, quite often heavy downpours, covers most of India and the southern slopes of the Himalayas. Best time to visit Leh as it does not get monsoon.

Autumn - October/ November

Generally dry, clear and pleasantly warm. Festival time all over India best time for Culture tours to Northern & Southern India.

Winter - December / January

Day Temperatures are generally very pleasant but the evenings and nights can be very cold. Best time to visit all parts of India except the Himalayas.

Spring - February/ March

Temperatures are warming up. Southern India and the Himalayan regions are particularly pleasant. Best time to visit National Parks.

Summer - April / May

Himalayan regions are pleasant. The central and desert regions can be very hot and dusty. Best time for trekking in the lower Himalayas and photographing Tigers.

Health

There are medical facilities in most large cities and the better hotels have doctors on call. There are no compulsory vaccinations required for visit to India. However as a sensible precaution the following Vaccination are recommended: Cholera, Typhoid, Tetanus, Hepatitis, Meningitis (particularly if trekking) plus Malaria protection. We recommend that you check with your doctor for individual requirements.

Currency

The unit of the currency is the Rupee.

Credit Cards & Travellers Cheques

Credit Cards are accepted in most establishments in most major towns. (Visa & Master Cards are preferred). The most readily accepted forign currency is US $ and Euro carried as Cash in reasonably small denominations.

Shopping

Best buys range from fashion clothing to jewellery, pottery, carpets, paintings, handicrafts and much more.

Tipping

This is generally expected throughout India. Restaurants and hotels exclude a service charge, it is recommended to tip around 10%. Allow a few rupees for porters. For local tour guide & chauffeur follow the equivalent of about US $ 10 - 20 per day.

Language

English is spoken widely throughout the towns and cities of India.

Electricity

220-240 Volts. You will need a round-pin two-pronged plug or adapter.

Food & drinks: Western style a la carte cuisine is available in most cities. Hotel chosen will usually offer a variety of international menus. Visitors who stick to Indian vegetarian dishes seem less likely to suffer stomach upsets. Smaller hotels, lodges and tented camps do not offer a la carte menus but have substantial table d’hôte meals. They are usually obliging and will temper the food to client’s choice and taste. Though the tap water is filtered in most cities, it is not advisable to drink tap water under any circumstances. Bottled mineral water is freely available but should be purchased from a reliable source, preferably the hotel. India, Sri Lanka and Nepal produce some good gin, vodka, rum and beer. Imported whiskey, wine, cognac and other drinks are available in most deluxe hotels but are expensive.

Accommodation : The quality of hotels and lodges in India subcontinent varies considerably from area to area. Hotels offered in our itineraries have been selected for their service, comfort and ambiance. In India we offer a unique opportunity to stay in accommodation as varied as magnificent palaces of erstwhile princes or “pension’ style homes. Many of the game parks offer comfortable tree houses and tented camps, while the remote area overnights tend to be comfortable but simple. Some of the palaces that have been converted into hotels have a degree of variances in the room offered and many of the smaller palaces and hunting lodges are unable to offer large groups of travellers the same kind of rooms. Except for some tented camps bathrooms are ensuite and rooms are furnished with twin beds, Double beds can be requested at larger properties. Almost all hotels used have swimming pools. No matter what accommodation is offered, be it a deluxe palace, a rustic jungle lodge or a mountain tent clients will have high standards of comfort, cleanliness and hygiene

Equipment & clothing

Casual clothing is the order of the day. Hard wearing, easy to wash travel clothes are ideal. You may wish to pack one set of slightly smarter clothes to wear at the hotels. Laundry service will be available at all the places we stay. Early morning can be cold (November to March) until the sun is up especially on game drives, in open top Jeeps and in the jungle. A light windproof or fleece jacket, warm hat, gloves and scarf are recommended. During the day we will need a wide brimmed sun hat and sunglasses. Lightweight, comfortable walking shoes are advised for throughout the holiday and for sightseeing.

Special note for Wilderness - No bright colours in the field please, including brightly coloured clothes, hats, gloves, etc. Although the birds and other wildlife are relatively approachable, muted colours are essential to improve our chances.

You should bring a pair of binoculars. If you are keen birders you may want to bring a spotting scope. You should bring all the camera equipment, spare memory cards and batteries that you will need. If we are using rechargeable batteries you will need to bring your charger and a travel adapter (round two pin). Plastic bags, cotton bags or pillowcases are useful to protect our camera equipment from dust and sand. A small daypack/camera bag is essential for carrying excess clothing, camera equipment and a water bottle.

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By Royal Expeditions Pvt. Ltd

26 Community Centre (II Floor), East of Kailash , New Delhi – 110065 Tel: 91-11-26238545, 91-11-41622245 Fax: +91-11-26475954

Email: tours@royalexpeditions.com Web: www.royalexpeditions.com