Rang Travels — explore the colors of India
A tiger standing in tall golden grass

Wildlife · Heritage · Photography

Royal India Tiger Safari & Heritage

Delhi, Rajasthan, Khajuraho and the tiger parks of Central India

See the day-by-day
Duration
17 days · 16 nights
Halts
9
Delhi to Delhi
Price
On request
quoted to your dates

The journey

Experience the perfect blend of India’s royal heritage, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant culture, and thrilling tiger safaris on this unforgettable journey through North and Central India.

Explore the historic streets of Delhi, majestic forts of Jaipur, the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal, the artistic temples of Khajuraho, and India’s most famous wildlife reserves including Ranthambore, Panna, Bandhavgarh, and Kanha National Parks. Witness breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, royal palaces, Mughal architecture, and unforgettable jungle safaris in search of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. This immersive tour offers an extraordinary combination of culture, history, wildlife, photography, and authentic Indian experiences.

Highlights

What you will remember

  • Tiger safaris in Ranthambore, Panna, Bandhavgarh and Kanha

  • The Taj Mahal at sunrise, Agra Fort and the ‘Baby Taj’

  • Khajuraho’s Lakshmana, Kandariya Mahadeva and Devi Jagadambi temples

  • Orchha’s Rai Praveen Mahal and the Raja Ram Temple

  • Amber Fort, the City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal

  • Kanha, the forest of The Jungle Book, and its barasingha

The route

10 halts, in order

  1. Delhi
  2. Jaipur2 nights
  3. Ranthambore3 nights
  4. Agra2 nights
  5. Orchhapass through
  6. Khajuraho2 nights
  7. Bandhavgarh2 nights
  8. Kanha2 nights
  9. Jabalpurpass through
  10. Delhi

Experiences

The moments it is built around

Everything else on this page is logistics. These are the reasons to come.

  • A safari jeep on a dusty track between trees

    Ranthambore

    Two days of morning and afternoon safaris among lakes, ruins and the old fort.

  • A tiger standing in tall golden grass

    Bandhavgarh

    Among the highest densities of tigers in India, in sal forest and grassland.

  • Carved figures on a Khajuraho temple wall

    Khajuraho

    The carved temples by day, and a safari in Panna by the Ken River in the afternoon.

  • Sunbeams through a forest onto a dirt road

    Kanha

    Kipling’s jungle: sal and bamboo, meadows, and the rare barasingha.

A tiger lying down, looking over its shoulder

Wildlife · Heritage · Photography

Delhi, Rajasthan, Khajuraho and the tiger parks of Central India

17 days, 16 nights

The route, day by day

Every halt, every overnight and every drive, published in full.

  1. Delhi
  2. Jaipur
  3. Ranthambore
  4. Agra
  5. Orchha
  6. Khajuraho
  7. Bandhavgarh
  8. Kanha
  9. Jabalpur
  10. Delhi
  1. Pigeons wheeling over a white marble pavilion

    01

    Overnight Delhi

    Arrival, and Old Delhi

    Welcome to Delhi, the vibrant capital of India where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. Upon arrival, at Delhi International Airport, a representative from Rang Travels will warmly receive you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After some relaxation, begin your unforgettable journey with an exploration of Old Delhi, the historic heart of the Mughal Empire.

    Enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, one of India’s oldest and busiest bazaars filled with spice markets, colourful shops, and traditional street food aromas. Visit the magnificent Jama Masjid, among the largest mosques in India, showcasing stunning Mughal architecture. Continue to Raj Ghat, the peaceful memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. The bustling lanes, historical monuments, and vibrant atmosphere offer a perfect introduction to India’s rich culture and heritage.

  2. A carved stone colonnade in shadow

    02

    Overnight Delhi

    New Delhi, the imperial capital

    After breakfast, discover the elegant side of India’s capital city with a tour of New Delhi, designed during the British colonial era. Begin with the iconic Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tallest brick minaret in the world, surrounded by ancient ruins and intricate carvings. Continue to the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and inspiration behind the Taj Mahal.

    Drive past the grand ceremonial boulevard featuring India Gate, the national war memorial, along with the impressive President’s House and Parliament House. Visit the peaceful Lotus Temple, famous for its lotus-shaped marble architecture and serene ambiance. Later, explore the lively colonial marketplace of Connaught Place, ideal for shopping, cafés, and experiencing Delhi’s urban charm. The day perfectly combines history, architecture, culture, and modern city life.

  3. A carved sandstone palace courtyard

    03

    Overnight Jaipur

    265 km · about 5½–6 hrs

    To Jaipur, the Pink City

    After breakfast, continue your journey to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s colourful capital famously known as the “Pink City.” Upon arrival, in Jaipur, check into your hotel and relax before beginning your evening exploration. Jaipur is renowned for its vibrant bazaars filled with textiles, gemstones, blue pottery, handicrafts, leather footwear, and traditional jewellery. Spend time discovering bustling local markets where Rajasthan’s artistic traditions come alive.

    Later, enjoy a memorable visit to the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema, one of India’s most famous movie theatres known for its grand interiors and lively Bollywood atmosphere. Watching a Bollywood film with local audiences provides an authentic cultural experience and a glimpse into India’s passion for cinema. Jaipur’s energy, colours, and royal heritage create an unforgettable experience.

  4. A painted elephant and its rider on the ramp to Amber Fort

    04

    Overnight Jaipur

    Amber, the City Palace and Hawa Mahal

    After breakfast, begin your day with an excursion to the magnificent Amber Fort, one of Rajasthan’s most spectacular hilltop forts and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its grand courtyards, royal chambers, mirror palaces, and impressive Rajput architecture while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

    On the return, stop for photographs at the beautiful Jal Mahal (Water Palace) floating gracefully in Man Sagar Lake. Continue to Jaipur city to visit the splendid City Palace, a royal residence blending Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. Nearby lies the fascinating Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory featuring massive scientific instruments still remarkably accurate today. Conclude your sightseeing at the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), famous for its pink sandstone façade and intricately designed windows built for royal ladies.

  5. A red palace on a forest lake

    05

    Overnight Ranthambore

    170 km · about 4 hrs

    Into Ranthambore

    After breakfast, leave behind the royal palaces of Jaipur and drive towards the famous Ranthambore National Park, one of India’s finest wildlife destinations and a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Upon arrival, check in at your wildlife resort and relax amidst the natural surroundings. Located between the Aravalli and Vindhya Hills, Ranthambore is renowned for its thriving population of Royal Bengal Tigers and dramatic landscapes.

    The park features ancient banyan trees, dry deciduous forests, rocky cliffs, lakes, and open grasslands that create the perfect habitat for wildlife. Besides tigers, the park is home to leopards, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, deer, hyenas, and over 270 species of birds. The unique combination of wilderness, history, and scenic beauty makes Ranthambore one of Rajasthan’s most unforgettable experiences.

  6. A tiger yawning in dry grass

    06

    Overnight Ranthambore

    Safaris in Ranthambore

    Today is dedicated to thrilling wildlife experiences inside Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan’s most celebrated tiger reserve. Begin your day with an early morning jungle safari in an open jeep or canter, accompanied by experienced naturalists and drivers. As the forest slowly awakens, keep an eye out for the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, often seen near lakes, grasslands, or hidden within the forest.

    The park’s diverse ecosystem also supports leopards, nilgai, sambar deer, crocodiles, jackals, langurs, and countless bird species. Ranthambore’s rugged terrain, ancient ruins, and peaceful lakes create an atmosphere unlike any other wildlife sanctuary in India. Return to the resort for some relaxation before heading out again for an exciting afternoon safari. Each safari offers a new adventure and unforgettable encounters with nature.

  7. A safari jeep on a dusty track between trees

    07

    Overnight Ranthambore

    Tigers, forest and the fort

    Wake up to another exciting day in the wilderness of Ranthambore National Park, a destination famous for its successful tiger conservation and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife safaris through different zones of the park, increasing your chances of spotting the elusive tiger in its natural habitat. Apart from tigers, Ranthambore is rich in biodiversity and offers sightings of striped hyenas, wild boars, crocodiles, peacocks, and a remarkable variety of birdlife.

    The park is also dotted with historic ruins, hidden temples, and the impressive Ranthambore Fort, adding a fascinating historical dimension to the safari experience. The combination of dense forests, open savannahs, rocky hills, and serene lakes makes every safari unique and visually spectacular. Return to your resort after an adventurous day surrounded by Rajasthan’s untamed natural beauty.

  8. Carved red sandstone arches

    08

    Overnight Agra

    300 km · about 7 hrs

    Fatehpur Sikri, on the way to Agra

    After breakfast, depart for Agra, visiting Fatehpur Sikri en route. It was built by Emperor Akbar during the 16th century and now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore remarkable monuments including the towering Buland Darwaza, elegant Panch Mahal, and sacred Tomb of Salim Chishti. The red sandstone architecture beautifully reflects the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. By evening, arrive in Agra, the legendary city of the Taj Mahal. Check into your hotel and relax before tomorrow’s unforgettable experiences.

  9. The Taj Mahal and a crowd in its garden

    09

    Overnight Agra

    The Taj Mahal at sunrise

    Early this morning, witness one of the world’s most breathtaking sights — the Taj Mahal at sunrise (closed on Fridays). As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the white marble monument, admire the changing hues and romantic beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

    Return to the hotel for breakfast before continuing to the majestic Agra Fort, a grand red sandstone fortress that once served as the residence of Mughal emperors. Explore its elegant palaces, audience halls, royal courtyards, and stunning views of the Taj Mahal. Later, visit the exquisite Itmad-ud-Daulah, often called the “Baby Taj,” renowned for its delicate marble inlay work and refined Mughal architecture.

  10. A palace dome seen through a carved arch

    10

    Overnight Khajuraho

    Train Agra – Jhansi, then 180 km · about 4 hrs

    By train and road to Orchha and Khajuraho

    This morning, transfer to the railway station to board the train to Jhansi, beginning an exciting journey through the cultural heart of India. Upon arrival, drive to the historic town of Orchha, a hidden gem renowned for its magnificent Bundela architecture, royal palaces, and sacred temples dating back to the 16th century.

    Explore the elegant Rai Praveen Mahal, famous for its beautiful frescoes and royal history, followed by a visit to the revered Raja Ram Temple, one of India’s unique temples where Lord Rama is worshipped as a king. Later continue towards Khajuraho, globally celebrated for its UNESCO-listed temples and extraordinary sculptures. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax amidst the tranquil surroundings.

  11. Carved figures on a Khajuraho temple wall

    11

    Overnight Khajuraho

    Khajuraho’s temples, and a Panna safari

    After breakfast, begin your exploration of the spectacular Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its extraordinary temple architecture, intricate carvings, and artistic brilliance. Visit the magnificent Lakshmana Temple, admired for its detailed sculptures and mythological depictions, followed by the grand Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, the largest and most ornate temple in Khajuraho. Continue to the elegant Devi Jagadambi Temple, celebrated for its graceful carvings and spiritual significance. These masterpieces beautifully portray scenes of daily life, divine love, music, and mythology.

    Later in the afternoon, proceed for an exciting safari in Panna National Park, one of India’s most scenic wildlife reserves and a remarkable tiger conservation success story. Spread across the beautiful Vindhya hills and along the serene Ken River, the park offers excellent opportunities to spot the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat. Apart from tigers, the park shelters leopards, sloth bears, wolves, hyenas, crocodiles, nilgai, chinkara, sambar deer, and over 250 species of birds. The stunning landscapes, riverine forests, and occasional sightings of gharials make Panna a paradise for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and photographers.

  12. Morning light through a forest onto still water

    12

    Overnight Bandhavgarh

    240 km · about 6 hrs

    To Bandhavgarh

    After breakfast, drive towards Bandhavgarh National Park, one of India’s premier wildlife destinations located amidst the scenic Vindhya Hills in Madhya Pradesh. Famous for one of the highest densities of Royal Bengal Tigers in India, Bandhavgarh is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The journey passes through picturesque villages, forests, and rural landscapes offering glimpses of authentic central India.

    Upon arrival, check into your jungle resort surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty. The park’s dramatic terrain of bamboo forests, grasslands, rocky hills, and ancient caves creates a perfect habitat for diverse wildlife. Relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the wilderness before your thrilling safari adventures begin the following day.

  13. A tiger standing in tall golden grass

    13

    Overnight Bandhavgarh

    Safaris in Bandhavgarh

    Today enjoy thrilling morning and afternoon jeep safaris inside Bandhavgarh National Park, one of India’s most celebrated tiger reserves and a paradise for wildlife lovers. The park is globally renowned for frequent Royal Bengal Tiger sightings and extraordinary biodiversity. Accompanied by expert naturalists, explore dense sal forests, bamboo groves, open grasslands, and scenic valleys while searching for elusive wildlife.

    Besides tigers, Bandhavgarh is home to leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas, jungle cats, jackals, Bengal foxes, gaurs, spotted deer, nilgai, sambar, and wild boars. Birdwatchers can also enjoy sightings of over 250 bird species across the reserve. The ancient ruins, caves, and historic Bandhavgarh Fort hidden within the forest add a mystical charm to the safari experience. Return to the resort after an unforgettable day in the wild.

  14. Sunbeams through a forest onto a dirt road

    14

    Overnight Kanha

    245 km · about 6 hrs

    A last Bandhavgarh safari, then Kanha

    Begin your morning with another exciting safari in Bandhavgarh National Park, offering one more opportunity to witness India’s incredible wildlife and possibly encounter the majestic tiger. After breakfast, continue your journey towards Kanha National Park, one of India’s finest tiger reserves and the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s famous “The Jungle Book.”

    Spread across vast sal forests, meadows, bamboo groves, and rolling hills, Kanha is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and exceptional biodiversity. Upon arrival, check into your wildlife resort located near the forest. Kanha is particularly famous for the rare Barasingha (Swamp Deer) conservation programme along with healthy populations of tigers, leopards, and wild dogs. Relax amidst nature and prepare for your upcoming jungle safaris.

  15. A tiger lying on a forest floor

    15

    Overnight Kanha

    Kanha, the Jungle Book forest

    Today enjoy morning and afternoon jeep safaris inside Kanha National Park, one of India’s most picturesque and well-managed tiger reserves. The park’s enchanting forests, vast grasslands, bamboo thickets, and peaceful streams create the perfect habitat for diverse wildlife. Keep your camera ready for sightings of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, along with leopards, wild dogs, gaur, spotted deer, sambar, and the rare Barasingha.

    Kanha is equally famous among birdwatchers and offers sightings of species such as Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Roller, White-breasted Kingfisher, Grey Hornbill, Racket-tailed Drongo, Woodpecker, and Common Peafowl. Every safari in Kanha offers unique landscapes, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and exceptional photography opportunities, making it one of the finest wildlife experiences in India.

  16. White marble cliffs above a still river

    16

    Overnight Delhi

    190 km · about 5 hrs, then flight Jabalpur – Delhi

    A final safari, then Jabalpur and Delhi

    Early this morning, embark on your final jungle safari in Kanha National Park, offering one last opportunity to witness the incredible wildlife and serene beauty of central India’s forests. As the jungle awakens, enjoy the magical atmosphere filled with bird calls, misty grasslands, and the possibility of spotting the elusive tiger or other wildlife species.

    Return to the resort for breakfast before driving to Jabalpur to board your flight to Delhi. The scenic journey passes through rural landscapes and forested countryside showcasing the natural beauty of Madhya Pradesh. Upon arrival, in Delhi, transfer to your hotel and relax after your memorable wildlife adventure through India’s famous national parks and cultural destinations.

  17. A woman carrying a basket along a river ghat

    17

    Departure

    Departure

    After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel in Delhi before your scheduled transfer to Delhi International Airport for your onward journey. As your unforgettable India tour comes to an end, take back wonderful memories of exploring ancient cities, magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites, royal palaces, colourful bazaars, and breathtaking wildlife reserves.

    From the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal and the artistic temples of Khajuraho to thrilling tiger safaris in Ranthambore, Panna, Bandhavgarh, and Kanha National Parks, this journey perfectly combines culture, history, wildlife, architecture, and nature. The diverse experiences, vibrant traditions, and incredible landscapes of India create memories that last forever. We thank you for travelling with Rang Travels and look forward to welcoming you again for another extraordinary adventure in India.

Like the route? We will write it for your dates.

The price

Quoted to your dates

Hotels, transport, guides and entrance fees change with the season and with how you like to travel, so this journey is priced for you. Every quotation itemises what it covers.

Reviews

In their own words

Word for word, several in Italian, because Italy found us early. 5.0 from 146 reviews on Google, and 5.0 from 200 on TripAdvisor.

I had an incredible adventure with Rang Travels in Northern India earlier this year! The tour was jam packed. I loved the beautiful forts and buildings we visited, the markets, as well as the stunning World Heritage hotels. This tour gave me a real taste for India, and I felt very comfortable for my first time visiting!

Read the whole review on Google

Jess Foster

Northern India · May 2025

1 / 19

Enquire

Plan my journey

Tell us where your India begins — we reply with a written itinerary.

Travellers
When, roughly
Interests
Or ask on WhatsApp

No obligation. We reply with a written itinerary, not a sales call.