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India

India MapsAlthough better known for its cultural treasures, India is also of immense interest from a natural history viewpoint. The subcontinent’s tropical location, varied topography and position astride the wet monsoon winds has resulted in all of sixteen different forest types.

Within the forests and on the grassy plains, there is an extremely rich and varied fauna, although today much survives only in restricted reserves. As one investigates the wonderful panoply of India’s wildlife, it is clear the subcontinent did indeed break away from Africa (then part of Gondwanaland) on its collision course with Eurasia. 

It is revealing to learn that India has elephant, leopard, lion, hyena, antelope, rhinoceros, caracal, jackal, and had, until its recent extinction, cheetah. These “African” species have combined with many, such as the mighty tiger and humble hedgehog, which migrated from Eurasia over the millennia, giving rise to a remarkable breadth of natural history to rival the world’s best wildlife destinations.

The Fascinating National Parks and Waterways of Southern India is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy taking their time travelling through, rather than flying over, varied tropical landscapes; for ample opportunities to view tiger and leopard, spot large numbers of birds, encounter monkeys, pythons and many other species, The Birds, Big Cats and Cultural Highlights of Northern India offers a wonderful melange of prime national parks and cultural sites; and see the last of the Asiatic lion in Gir, the endangered Indian one-horned rhino in Kaziranga and explore the undersea world of the Lakshadweep coral islands in India’s Rhino’s, Lions and Coral Islands.  

When to Go

The winter season, from October to March, is the time most visitors travel to India, when high pressure builds up over Central Asia giving rise to mainly dry and sunny weather (although it can also be cool and overcast). From April onwards, the heat becomes unbearable and there may be heavy rains which render travel nearly impossible. It can be very cool in some reserves in the north, especially in the morning, so warm clothing is advisable for game drives.

Reading Suggestions:

In association with nhbs Environment Bookstore

Field Guide to the Birds of Northern India
 Field Guide to the Birds of Southern India
       
Prion Birdwatchers' Guide to India
  A Field Guide to Indian Mammals

The Fascinating National Parks & Waterways of Southern India

A southern India wildlife tour of great variety, diverse natural history and stunning scenery, this tour includes many significant national parks and reserves, as well as houseboat cruising in Kerala’s waterways and the charms of Cochin with its many attractions. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy taking their time travelling through, rather than flying over, varied tropical landscapes, taking in all the exotic sights and sounds along the way.  Find out more...

The Birds, Big Cats and Cultural Highlights of Northern India

A wonderful melange of prime national parks and important cultural sites, this India wildlife and culture holiday holds great variety and wide appeal. Affording ample opportunity to view tiger and leopard, spot large numbers of birds, encounter monkeys, pythons and many other species, it also utilises a number of different forms of transport, including plane, train, jeep, elephant and car.  Recommended for those seeking wildlife and history in equal measure.  Find out more...

India's Rhinos, Lions and Coral Islands

Experience three extra-special yet little visited corners of India, each with its own particular special appeal, in this India lions, rhinos and islands holiday. See the last of the Asiatic lion in Gir and the endangered Indian one-horned rhino in Kaziranga, then fly far offshore to the lovely Lakshadweep coral islands to explore the undersea world of the Indian Ocean and laze on a beautiful beach before journeying home. Be off the beaten track, yet enjoy some of India’s best locations.  Find out more...

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NORTHERN INDIA BARE NECESSITIES FROM £1115

This tour of northern India offers the opportunity to take in the sights of Delhi, the excellent birding and wildlife at Bharatpur, the fabulous Taj Mahal and the deserted Moghul city of Fatehpur Sikri before the highlight: Bandhavghar, probably the best tiger reserve in India. Enjoy the comforts of a first class jungle resort and the chance to view the largest and most majestic of all cats.

Find out more...

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THE WILDLIFE, DESERT AND CULTURAL WONDERS OF RAJASTHAN

This extensive, comprehensive 19-day itinerary is designed to reveal the major highlights, both cultural and natural, to be found in India’s northern state of Rajasthan. Desert wildlife sanctuaries and camel camps, forest reserves for tigers and birds, and the forts and other cultural delights of many towns and cities.  Find out more...

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INDIA’S TIGERS, BIRDS AND BEAUTIFUL BEACHES

Not many know that Goa, famous for its beaches, also boasts some excellent wildlife reserves: we visit some of these as well spend rewarding relaxation time on Goa’s fabulous coastline in a very pleasant, high quality resort. We then follow with two of India’s best tiger reserves: Pench and Kanha.  Find out more...

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IN SEARCH OF SHERE KHAN – A DEDICATED TIGER TOUR

For those whose main aim in visiting India is to see the world’s largest feline, this itinerary is purrfect (please excuse pun). We have included the three best tiger reserves in the Subcontinent to provide you with the maximum opportunity for exciting big cat encounters. Find out more...

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THE UNUSUAL ANIMALS OF INDIA’S WILD WEST

Mahatma Gandhi’s home state of Gujarat, in India’s central west, boasts fascinating architecture, a wide variety of habitats, abundant birdlife and a plethora of unusual animals. Find out more...

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THE ONE-HORNED RHINO AND MORE - ASSAM’S EXTRAORDINARY WILDLIFE

Bordered by the Himalayan foothills and famous for its tea, Assam, in India’s far east, is also a mecca for wildlife enthusiasts keen to visit four important reserves for some very rare species. Find out more...