India's Wildlife - A Photography Tour

Tour Code: IND03

A 12-day wildlife photography holiday to Bandhavgarh, one of India's finest Tiger Reserves with an impressive record of Tiger sightings (indeed, a 100% record on these tours!) and a wealth of other obliging wildlife subjects, including colourful birdlife and such mammals as Spotted Deer, Sambar, Chousingha, Nilgai and Grey Langur.

12 days from
£3,995 (Inc flights)

Land only price from
£3,495

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Highlights

Summary

Bandhavgarh is one of the best of India's many excellent Tiger Reserves with an impressive record for consistent Tiger sightings (indeed, a 100% record on these tours!). Set amongst the forested Vindhya Hills, and dominated by the impressive ruins of the hilltop Bandhavgarh Fort, photographers will be in their element. There is an abundance of wildlife subjects to be photographed on every Naturetrek tour to India, but this holiday is specifically designed to allow extra time with each wildlife encounter to allow the composition of that perfect photograph! Whilst the mighty Tiger is the star attraction at Bandhavgarh, the reserve offers a wealth of obliging wildlife subjects, including colourful birdlife and such other mammals as Spotted Deer, Sambar, Chousingha, Nilgai and Grey Langurs.

Expertly guided by at least one leading photographer of Indian wildlife
7 nights / 8 days in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve – time for serious photography
Excellent opportunities for Tiger photography – from jeeps
Spotted Deer, Sambar, Chousingha, Chinkara, Nilgai & Langurs amongst other mammals
Wealth of birds, including Peacock, raptors, bee-eaters & other colourful subjects
Bandhavgarh Fort – pre 10th century rock carvings & photogenic temple ruins

Grading

This is a straightforward wildlife tour with no strenuous walking.

In his famous ‘Jungle Book’ Rudyard Kipling acknowledged the undisputed status of the mighty Bengal Tiger by introducing Shere Khan as the king of the beasts. Although the cat family includes many impressive and attractive animals, there is an aura of power and majesty about the Tiger which makes it an automatic choice for this title and to observe a male Tiger patrolling his territory in an Indian reserve is to watch an unchallenged ruler strolling through his domain.

Unfortunately for the Tiger, being top predator was no protection against the activities of man, and a combination of habitat destruction and hunting pressures reduced the Indian population from an estimated 40,000 to less than 2,000 before the conservation initiative known as ‘Project Tiger’ sought to halt this rapid decline by the establishment of numerous Tiger Reserves. It is in reserves such as Kanha and Ranthambore that, over the years, many hundreds of Naturetrek clients have savoured the ultimate wildlife experience of watching Tigers in their natural environment. However, in recent times, another reserve, Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh, has acquired a rapidly growing reputation as one of the very best locations for consistent Tiger sightings.

Set amid the Vindhya Hills, Bandhavgarh was first established in 1968 but substantially increased in size 20 years later by the incorporation of several adjacent tracts of Sal forest. This is a region steeped in history and, in the heart of the reserve, towering 800 metres above the forest, stands the ruin of a magnificent hilltop fort which bears testament to the succession of dynasties which over the ages ruled this area. A former capital of the Baghel kings, Bandhavgarh Fort was eventually abandoned early in the 17th century and quickly reclaimed by the jungle around it, although it remained a royal hunting reserve for another 300 years, thus ensuring the protection of the forest. Today, careful management has ensured that the park is a haven for Tigers, and it also provides a remarkably picturesque and tranquil setting for that unforgettable encounter with the most magnificent of all big cats. Several Naturetrek groups have already discovered the delights of Bandhavgarh, but it is in acknowledgement of the park’s abundant photographic qualities that we are pleased to offer this exciting 12-day tour which affords a wealth of subjects, both natural and man-made, for photographers to capture.

Our holiday begins in the capital city of Delhi, but we pause only briefly before catching an overnight sleeper train to Katni, the railhead close to Bandhavgarh. From here we drive to comfortable accommodation just outside the reserve where we stay for seven nights. During the following days we will board jeeps for morning and afternoon excursions into the national park, each visit charged with that unique tingle of anticipation generated by being in Tiger territory. Even here, appearances by Tigers can never be predicted or guaranteed and sometimes only a giant footprint in the dust, or a distant roar, betrays the presence of our quarry. However, perseverance has its rewards and that magical moment when the lord of the forest finally emerges into view will never be forgotten. Depending on the situation it is often possible to approach Tigers closely by jeep and much film is sure to be expended during such encounters. Even without the Tigers, there is much to see in Bandhavgarh. Herds of Spotted Deer roam the reserve and constitute one of the main prey items for the Tigers, although the utterly endearing little fawns look far too appealing to deserve such a fate. Other herbivorous residents are less conspicuous but include Sambar, Chousingha, Chinkara, Nilgai and Muntjac. Several hundred species of birds have been recorded in the reserve and it is often the excited behaviour of the birdlife that first announces the presence of a prowling Tiger, although the anxious chatter of Grey Langur Monkeys and barking alarm calls of Spotted Deer quickly relay the warning to all the creatures in the vicinity!

With so much wildlife to photograph, participants will need to take plenty of memory cards, and as a diversion from the wildlife, may also wish to visit the scenic Bamera Dam at nearby Panpatha Sanctuary or Majhauli Dam, a good place for birdwatching. Bandhavgarh Fort is currently closed to tourists, but also contains rock carvings and photogenic deserted temples dating back to the 10th century and beyond. This wonderful national park richly deserves its reputation as one of the top Tiger Reserves in the subcontinent and we are confident that photographers will be delighted by the range of subjects during this specially designed tour.

DETAILED INFORMATION

Itinerary

Outline Itinerary

Day 1

Depart London

Day 2

Delhi; overnight train to Katni

Day 3/9

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

Day 10

Final day in Bandhavgarh; overnight train to Agra

Day 11

Full day's sightseeing in Agra; evening train to Delhi

Day 12

Fly London

Download Full Itinerary

What's Included

What's Included?

Flights
Accommodation: A simple but comfortable forest lodge at Bandhavgarh, with private facilities.
Food: All included in the price, except for dinner on Day 11.

Reviews

A trip to Bandavgarh Reserve with eight days pursuing wildlife. Well led - brilliant naturalists and local staff. Frequent encounters with tigers and three with sloth bears (in one day!). Good accommodation.
R.B. Dorset, Oct 19
Our ten day trip included travelling overnight by train to reach Karni from where we drove to the Bandhavgarh Villas where we were staying for a week. From the moment we met our two tour guides at Delhi airport we knew we would have a wonderful experience in India. Amith and Anand are such knowledgeable guides and extremely helpful with nothing being too much trouble for them. Our week with thirteen half day safaris in to various areas of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve was wonderful with amazing sightings of Tigers. We were so well looked after at the Bandhavgarh Villas, again nothing was too much trouble, you only had to ask! At the end of our week we took the overnight sleeper train again to Agra where we were treated to a wondrous day visiting the Taj Mahal, the baby Taj and driving along the perimeter of the enormous Red Fort. We've all seen the Taj Mahal on television, in photographs and books, but nothing prepares you for the splendour that is the Taj Mahal, truly magical and what a way to end our Indian adventure!
M.P. Surrey, Oct 19
This was a photographic tour in India, I not only had some terrific sightings of tigers and plenty of other wildlife, but also did a lot of travelling and saw some of India's railways and also experienced some of their city's including Agra and the Taj Mahal. I feel I had seen a good part of India.
C.G. Dorset

Both guides were truly excellent and worth their weight in gold.
A.S. West Midlands

Our tour leader was excellent. We saw the tigers which was what I came to see, also saw some rare sightings of leopard and sloth bear. The staff at our accommodation were very friendly and helpful. I enjoyed the food although I am not very familiar with Indian cuisine, it was not too spicy or hot.
S.S. Hampshire

An excellent trip, well organised and with a very good guide and photography expert in Talat Khalid. Tiger sightings were outstanding with good views on 10 (of the) 15 safaris. The overnight trains were also fun. Overall, this was about the best tour I have ever done. Thanks!
D.B. Cheshire

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Extensions

Chambal and Bharatpur extension

The National Chambal Sanctuary is a refuge for rare and endangered species such the Ganges River Dolphin. We'll explore Chambal by boat before driving to Bharatpur, home to a great variety of vultures, raptors, small passerines and wetland birds. We'll be hoping to see about 100 bird species during our two full days there as well as freshwater turtles and mammals such as Fishing Cat and dolphins.

4 days from £1,295

View Details

Dates & Prices

2025

Departures Availability Cost

Wed 26th Feb – Sun 9th Mar 3 £4,495

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£3,995

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£795

Wed 22nd Oct – Sun 2nd Nov SPACES £3,995

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£3,495

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£795

2026

Departures Availability Cost

Wed 4th Mar – Sun 15th Mar SPACES £3,995

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£3,495

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£795

Wed 21st Oct – Sun 1st Nov SPACES £3,995

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£3,495

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£795

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            [description] => Tiger Safaris – Unparalleled 100% Record of Success
Naturetrek has nearly 30 years of experience leading Tiger watching holidays to the Indian subcontinent. With a 100% record of success on our top tours, we’ve shown Tigers to more people than any other wildlife specialists.
Arguably the most iconic and charismatic species on the planet, this enigmatic big cat is a vision of natural perfection. The opportunity to observe the animal in its natural habitat on a dedicated Tiger watching tour is at the top of many people's wildlife wish lists. With almost three decades of expertise leading in India, and the widest range of itineraries available, we have a Tiger tour to suit all interests.
We visit some of the most wildlife-rich reserves in this astonishingly diverse country. Accompanied by the best local naturalist guides and enjoying the security and intimate experiences that come with small group travel, participants enjoy the ultimate thrill of encountering these magnificent wild animals in their own environment.
Superb Tiger Watching with Naturetrek
As the leading operator of natural history tours in India, Naturetrek has a long and proud tradition of enabling clients to experience the very best wildlife viewing opportunities in the subcontinent. Over the past three decades, many hundreds of nature lovers have enjoyed the benefits of our renowned small group itineraries to gain multiple sightings of this beautiful animal in the wild.
Our professionally organised tours take in some of the most famous and wildlife-rich reserves in India, including Pench, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Panna National Parks. Our expert naturalist guides provide the best opportunities for sightings of a wide range of species in these spectacular natural environments.
Two other fantastic national parks – Tadoba and Satpura – can be visited on optional extensions to several of our top Tiger tours. Tadoba is an excellent Tiger watching destination, while Satpura is renowned for intimate encounters with Sloth Bear, Leopard and Dhole (Indian Wild Dog); the park also offers walking safaris and night game drives.
Some of the reasons our tours are so successful:

100% sightings on our four top safaris in the last five years
Small groups escorted by India’s best naturalist guides
Up-to-date information from wildlife reserves
Scrupulous attention to detail in choosing a high standard of accommodation
Excellent local guides monitor the animals’ movement daily to ensure the best sightings

What can I expect on a typical Naturetrek Tiger holiday?

A comfortable lodge within a convenient distance from the reserve
Twice-daily excursions by vehicle (or by foot in Satpura) into the reserves
A focus on sightings of this wonderful big cat, while also enjoying culture and other wildlife
The enjoyment of like-minded travelling companions in a small group

Further information on when, where, and how to see Tigers can be found here.

Our specialist recommends...



"I’d recommend our Tiger Marathon tour, which takes you straight into the heart of the jungle on a 13-day safari that combines Pench, Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Panna National Parks, four of India's finest reserves. Since we began the tour we've had 100% sightings! Alternatively, our Tiger Direct itinerary encompasses less travel and also has 100% success rate.” 

Rajan Jolly - Operations Manager

  
All Tiger Tours
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            [description] => Wildlife Photography Workshops with Expert Tuition
Our dedicated wildlife photography workshops are aimed at wildlife photographers of varying levels of experience and ability, including beginners with ambitions to learn and improve, keen amateurs looking to hone their skills, and accomplished photographers seeking exceptional photographic opportunities. 
Naturetrek Wildlife Photography Holidays
We work with outstanding photographers who share our goals of spending quality, informed time watching – and capturing – once-in-a-lifetime moments. Joining one of our wildlife photography tours will not only improve your technique and sharpen your reflexes, but will also optimise your chances of capturing memorable, high-quality images of some of the world’s most sought-after species. Group sizes on these holidays are strictly limited, not only to allow you plenty of room in which to work, but, just as importantly, to enable you to benefit from the dedicated time of our expert leaders. Our leaders aim to challenge your approach to photography, giving you the chance to pursue new avenues of creativity. They are also expert naturalists, enabling them to provide insight that will help you see your subjects in a new light, and improve your ability to predict and capture interesting behaviour.
Our tours offer:

Expert advice on how to get the most out of your equipment
Expert advice on composition and photographic technique
Photo editing tuition fills time that is unproductive for shooting
Extended time in hotspots to allow a focus on target species such as Jaguars, Tigers, bears, puffins and otters
Picturesque landscapes, visited at optimal times
Limited group size
Like-minded travelling companions

 

Our specialist recommends...


“Our ‘Mull’s Otters and Eagles’ holiday provides fantastic opportunities to photograph charismatic wildlife in a stunning natural setting, allowing plenty of time to hone your technique with the aid of an expert photographer. If you’re looking for a long-haul option, our 16-day photography holiday to Costa Rica has it all with abundant, vibrant wildlife; over 900 species of bird, 250 species of mammal and 1,200 species of butterfly. Combine this with its stunning landscapes, and few countries in the Americas are better suited to a photography holiday!”

Paul Stanbury - Operations Manager
 

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            [description] => Big Cat Safari Holidays
Big cats are among the most admired and sought-after mammals on the planet, and we are proud to offer a broad and comprehensive range of big cat safari holidays. We offer inspiring and truly memorable wildlife tours to enjoy sightings of all of the world’s iconic species in their natural habitats, including Tigers in India and Nepal, Jaguars in the Pantanal, Pumas in Chile and Snow Leopards in India and Mongolia and we certainly do not neglect the smaller cats either.
We offer a range of itineraries around Africa and encounter the continent’s high-profile species like Lions, Cheetahs and Leopards and also the lesser known species such as Caracal, Sand Cat, Black-footed Cat, Serval and African Wild Cat. We also have wildlife holidays that catch sightings of the Asiatic Lion in India and the elusive Leopard in Sri Lanka.
We also offer a pioneering tour to try to see the most difficult of all big cats the Sunda Clouded Leopard in Borneo with Leopard Cat, Marbled Cat and Flat-headed Cat all having being seen on our Borneo holidays. Closer to home, we offer holidays in Europe to go in search of Wildcat and both Eurasian and Iberian Lynx.
We have run these holidays for many years with great success, working with the best local contacts and guides and staying at the very best locations with carefully crafted itineraries which allow the optimum amount of time to achieve sightings.  

Our specialist recommends...


"Naturetrek has been instrumental in designing, researching and pioneering many of the big cat safari tours on the market. Our dedicated Tiger-watching trips have an unparalleled 100% success record with sightings, while if you want an experience dedicated to looking for Jaguars (also with a 100% success rate), you can’t do any better than our 'Brazil – Just Jaguars!' holiday. Additionally, our 'South Africa – Just Cats!' holiday offers a chance to see a wide variety of species in stunning scenery and for a real adventure, well off the beaten track, our 'Borneo's Mammals - Deramakot Forest Reserve' holiday is hard to beat for sheer excitement as we go in search of Sunda Clouded Leopard with extensive night time spotlighting outings encountering a wonderful number of mammals as we search for this elusive cat. Finally, if you wish to combine two holidays in one, our 'South America's Big Cats' holiday, first goes in search of Pumas in Chile followed by Jaguars in Brazil with a wonderful chance now for Ocelot in the Pantanal. "

Tom Mabbett - Operations Manager
 

ALL BIG CAT TOURS
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Tour Dates or Itinerary Don't Suit?

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Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?

For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

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Tour Reports

Tour report - October 2017

Tour report - October 2016

Tour report - April 2014

Tour report - March 2011

Tour report - March 2010

Tour report - November 2009

Tour report - March 2008

Tour report - November 2007

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Why Naturetrek?

At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!

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