Kanha is one of the more celebrated national parks in Madhya Pradesh, well-connected by road to Bandhavgarh and Pench and an ETG favourite. It is large and sprawling, mostly consisting of sal forest and open grasslands. Scenic qualities of this area are particularly difficult to capture in words, which is why we highly recommend you see it for yourself!
Kanha is the only park in India where barasingha, or swamp deer, live, having been brought back from near extinction. The park also supports a thriving tiger population, along with leopards and sloth bears, though these are somewhat more elusive.
Cycling trips of various durations have recently been developed to enhance the park safari experience. These trips also benefit the local community by visiting villages in the buffer zone, with overnight camping available. There are some good accommodation options on offer and this is a very special chance to get a truly unique insight into tribal communities and village life around the park. With an extended stay of 5 nights, you will have a great amount of time to take in the beauty, wildlife and local village life, including a visit to the off-the-beaten-track Phen National Park, too.
Madhya Pradesh has experienced an increase in regulatory conditions for the national park regions over the last few years. These mean jeep vehicle numbers are now restricted and therefore booking as far in advance as possible is highly recommended. The best time to visit is between November and May and mid-October to mid-March, when temperatures are milder, though the middle of December through till the end of January should be avoided due to cold, misty mornings. For the real wildlife enthusiasts, the prime time to visit from March to the end of May when the weather is extremely hot, drying up watering holes and making wildlife sightings more common.
India
Regal Residences of Rajasthan
This is a far cry from the tired old route that almost everyone takes through India’s Golden Triangle. We know that you’re not everyone. Veer off the tourist trail into the heartlands of Rajasthan to feel the true essence of timeless and, yes, incredible India.
You’ll still be able to experience the manic magic of Delhi, the warm pink hues of Japiur and the magnificence of the Taj Mahal. But you’ll also experience so much more by staying in some of the country’s best heritage properties, brought to life by charismatic hosts. You’ll get the best of both worlds – and be amazed that the rest of the world doesn’t seem to be in on the secret. Shhh!
Highlights
Chambal River
Explore magnificent and lesser-visited sites on the banks of the Chambal River
Heritage properties
Experience a flavour of rural and royal Rajasthan in two contrasting rural palaces
Taj Mahal
Admire the marble magnificence of the Taj Mahal
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India
The Golden Triangle & The Himalayas
This is a proper adventure, taking in the riches of Rajasthan before venturing deep into the Himalayas to explore the off-the-beaten-track Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. After tiger-spotting in Corbett, escape to the unspoiled Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. Here, colonial-era hill stations and quiet Himalayan villages offer a slower pace and extraordinary views, far from the tourist trail.
Highlights
Iconic sights
Seeing the best of Rajasthan (think the Taj, tigers and terrific forts, palaces and handicrafts)
Unique accommodation
Staying in haveli hotels and warm and welcoming luxury homestays with fascinating histories
Himalayan views
Ending the holiday on a (literal) high in the Himalayas, venturing into the Kumaon region that most tourists miss
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India
Classic Rajasthan with the Taj Mahal
Our ‘Classic Rajasthan with the Taj’ itinerary idea takes in all the must-see sites of India’s Golden Triangle and beyond, such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur. You’ll also experience a change of pace and a glimpse at an older, more rural Rajasthan with its impossibly romantic desert forts, dramatic scenery and wildlife.
We’ve suggested mixing opulent city hotels, perfect for escaping the clamour outside, with peacefully charming but quirky heritage properties in converted Rajput residences, used for entertaining visitors from time immemorial.
Highlights
Iconic sights
Marvel at the timeless magnificence of the Taj Mahal, the disorderliness of Delhi and colourful Jaipur
Fort Barli
Escape the madness into the gorgeous surrounds of Fort Barli and the Rajasthani countryside
Lake Pichola
Stay on the banks of Lake Pichola in romantic and laid-back Udaipur
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