- India Escorted Tours
- India’s Tiger Trail and the Taj Mahal
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Central India’s lush national parks, teeming with wildlife, and experience the magic of the Taj Mahal at sunrise. This captivating tour combines thrilling safaris in India’s premier tiger reserves with visits to historic monuments and cultural landmarks, promising an adventure like no other.
Depart on your scheduled, overnight flight to Mumbai.
Lunch & Dinner
Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, set out on an unforgettable excursion to the Elephanta Caves which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An impressive collection of rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dating back to the 5th to 8th centuries, these caves are renowned for their intricate carvings and serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Mumbai’s landmarks, including the Gateway of India, the historic Mani Bhavan, and the bustling Crawford Market. Drive along Marine Drive, also known as the "Queen’s Necklace," for stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Catch an early morning flight to Nagpur, followed by a scenic drive to Pench National Park. Settle into your lodge and enjoy a leisurely evening with a guided nature walk to familiarize yourself with the lush surroundings.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Spend the day exploring Pench Tiger Reserve on morning and afternoon safaris. This enchanting park, known as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, is home to a diverse array of wildlife. You'll have the chance to spot tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and over 200 species of birds. The dense forests provide a lush, green canopy, while the tranquil river winds through the reserve, creating the perfect backdrop for observing animals in their natural habitat. As you venture through the park, you'll be immersed in the sights and sounds of the jungle, making for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, you'll drive to Kanha National Park, one of India's most renowned wildlife reserves. Upon arrival, you'll check into your lodge and have the rest of the day at leisure. This time can be spent relaxing and taking in the serene surroundings. The park's lush forests and diverse wildlife create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. You might choose to explore the lodge's amenities, take a leisurely walk around the grounds, or simply sit back and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. The serene environment of Kanha provides an ideal setting to prepare for the exciting wildlife adventures that await you in the coming days.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Experience the thrill of early morning and afternoon safaris in Kanha National Park, a reserve celebrated for its wildlife conservation efforts. As you traverse the park, keep an eye out for the majestic Bengal tiger, as well as Barasingha (swamp deer), sloth bears, and the elusive panther. The diverse flora and fauna of Kanha offer a captivating glimpse into the natural world.
One evening, you'll have the unique opportunity to visit a nearby tribal village. Here, you'll learn about the Baiga and Gond tribes, who are known for their deep connection to nature and traditional ways of life.
To cap off your adventure, enjoy a special bush or garden dinner under the stars. This unforgettable night in the heart of the wilderness allows you to savuor delicious cuisine while surrounded by the serene sounds of nature, creating lasting memories of your time in Kanha.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive to Bandhavgarh National Park, a haven for tiger enthusiasts. Known for its dense population of these magnificent big cats, the park also offers stunning landscapes of rolling hills and lush forests. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and spend the evening relaxing. Take this time to unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings, preparing for the exciting wildlife adventures that await you in the coming days.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Delve deeper into Bandhavgarh with morning and afternoon safaris. The park is renowned not only for its tigers but also for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, deer, and over 250 species of birds. As you explore the park, you'll be immersed in its stunning landscapes of rolling hills and lush forests, offering ample opportunities for wildlife sightings.
In the evening, enjoy a magical stargazing experience. The unpolluted skies of Bandhavgarh reveal a dazzling array of constellations, providing a serene and awe-inspiring end to your day. This enchanting experience allows you to connect with nature in a unique and memorable way.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel to Panna National Park, a picturesque reserve known for its rugged terrain and the sparkling Ken River. Upon arrival, visit the park’s museum to learn about its history and conservation efforts. Later, embark on a serene boat safari on the Ken River, where you may spot crocodiles and migratory birds amidst the stunning scenery.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Enjoy morning and afternoon safaris in Panna, a park renowned for its tiger conservation efforts. As you traverse the park, you'll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including sambar deer, wild boar, and jackals. The park's diverse ecosystem provides a rich habitat for these animals, making each safari an exciting adventure.
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the opportunity to observe species such as the paradise flycatcher and Indian vulture. The lush vegetation and serene environment create ideal conditions for birdwatching, allowing you to see these beautiful birds in their natural surroundings.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive to Khajuraho and explore its famous UNESCO-listed temples. These intricately carved monuments are celebrated for their stunning depictions of love, spirituality, and art, offering a fascinating glimpse into India's rich cultural heritage. Later, board the train to Agra, arriving late in the evening. This journey provides a comfortable and scenic way to travel, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day's explorations.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Witness the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal at sunrise, an unforgettable highlight of your trip. The soft morning light enhances the beauty of this iconic monument, creating a magical experience. Later, visit the imposing Agra Fort, a red sandstone fortress steeped in history, offering insights into India's rich heritage. After lunch, drive to Delhi for your final night, reflecting on the memorable experiences of your journey.
Breakfast
Transfer to the Delhi airport for your return flight, or continue onto your chosen extension.
Use discount code TOUR200 at the checkout to save £200 per person on selected tours departing in June 2026, July 2026, August 2026, September 2026, October 2026, November 2026, December 2026, January 2027, February 2027, March 2027, April 2027, May 2027, June 2027, July 2027, August 2027, September 2027, October 2027, November 2027 and December 2027
Your Next Adventure Awaits! We've been arranging award-winning, expertly crafted hoildays and tours since 1980. We're also ABTA protected and ATOL bonded for your total peace of mind. Call us today to book your next unforgettable holiday!
The order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions or for operational purposes. The schedules of the domestic airlines in country are subject to frequent changes. For this reason, we have indicated approximate times only. Your local guide will inform you of any schedule changes as they are informed of them. The driving times listed are point to point and do not include the duration of excursions or stops en route. Some road construction and/or weather conditions may lengthen the driving times. Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary as printed; however, order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions.
Important: Please note that all mobile phones are banned from India’s National Parks and Tiger Reserves. Phones will need to be left at the hotel when you are on safari. You will still be able to bring cameras into the parks and reserves to take photos.
If booking more than 12 weeks before departure a deposit of £295.00pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 12 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 12 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.
A visa is required for entry into India. British Citizen Passport Holders will need to obtain a tourist visa. You can apply for an E-visa no more than 30 days in advance. Your E-visa must be valid for your whole trip so please ensure the expiry date is for the whole duration of your stay. Alternatively you can visit The Indian Visa Application Centre in London: 142-148 Goswell Road, London, EC1B 7DU. We also work closely with The Travel Visa Company who will be able to arrange your visa on your behalf. Please call them on 01270 250 590 and quote 'Mercury Holidays'. Additionally, you will need to complete an e-Arrival Card within 72 hours before your arrival. This can be done on the Indian visa website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months before you enter India. Visa requirements are subject to change and obtaining a visa is the responsibility of the traveller and not Mercury Holidays. We recommend you check with your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy prior to departure for the most up to date guidelines regarding visas and passport validity.
Please note your final documentation will be sent to you approximately 21 days before departure. Check in baggage is included with your flight. Weight restrictions will be finalised on your final documentation. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Check-in should be at least 3 hours before departure. If you wish to arrange Airport car parking or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras on 0333 188 0407, quoting HX313.
IMPORTANT: A printed e-ticket or boarding pass, along with your passport, is required for entry into Indian airports. Ensure you print your tickets before travelling, as digital copies on mobile devices are not accepted. It's also recommended to carry your invoice with flight details for reference.
Please note we will require your APIS/Passport information at least 2 months in advance to pre purchase your Safari passes, this can be uploaded via our website on "Manage My Booking".
We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras, including up to a 20% discount, which is given to all Mercury Holidays customers. To arrange your insurance with Holiday Extras, please visit https://www.mercuryholidays.co.uk/info/insurance for more details. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24 hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.
It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk, http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.
All our tours feature a “Tour Pace” to help find the right holiday for you. To travel on any of our tours requires unaided mobility and the ability to stroll around the sights, climb stairs and get on and off coaches, boats and canters. The tour pace of Wild India is rated Active. Expect a more dynamic itinerary with longer days of exploration. Walking may extend beyond four hours per day, including some uphill or uneven terrain and changes of altitude. Travel times between destinations may be longer and involve overnight trains, requiring better stamina and mobility. Ideal for those who enjoy a higher level of activity and want to experience as much as possible. Our guides will always endeavour to provide the highest level of service and assistance; however, they cannot be expected to cater for customers who are unfit to complete the itinerary. Early morning trains and flights depending upon the schedule and some early morning sightseeing’s are also in this tour.
The currency in India is the Rupee or Rs. The Rupee is a closed currency and officially you are not allowed to take any cash out of India. US Dollars and GBP are also widely accepted in India should you wish to keep an alternative currency on you. There are restrictions on taking Indian rupees into India. Visitors, including tourists, are not permitted to take any amount of Indian currency into the country. You can take cash or travellers' cheques (in pounds sterling or another foreign currency) and/or a bank card with you and exchange or withdraw rupees once in India. Cash machines will also be available throughout the tour in order to withdraw money in your local currency. It is important that you budget carefully and ensure you have the right form of currency before you arrive in the country.
As normal practice you may be asked for your credit card details on check-in at the hotel in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card, you may be asked for a cash deposit. MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels as well as American Express.
You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any personal purchases, such as souvenirs, laundry and extra drinks and snacks. Approximately £350-£400 per person will be sufficient for the duration of the tour.
It is customary to tip your guide and driver. This is at your discretion, but we recommend you allow approximately £4-£5 for each guide and £2-£3 for each driver per person per day. It is asked that you tip in pounds and not local currency, please do not give coins as these are difficult to exchange. Your guide will also ask you for £1 or £2 a day to add to a kitty this is for the porters, waiters etc throughout your tour.
The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 10, and the maximum will be 25. If in the unlikely event there are less than 10 people booked on your tour date, we will endeavour to reduce any disruption to your holiday and try to operate your tour with lower passenger numbers. If we are not able to operate your departure date then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.
This is a fully escorted tour, meaning that you will be met on arrival by your English-speaking Tour assistant who will remain with you for the duration of your trip. You will also be joined by a naturalist on each of the safaris, ensuring that you have first-hand knowledge about the existing animal life.
Private Tour: If you have booked a private tour then you will be accompanied by a Driver Guide or a Driver and Local Guides. These will be available to you during all scheduled sightseeing.
Safari Vehicles:
Your safari will be taken in a canter, this is a large open roofed truck that seats up to 20 people. Safari drivers take you to areas of the park where wildlife are more likely to be seen but as with all wildlife experiences nothing can be guaranteed. Please note that many paths inside the park are bumpy and dusty.
Train Journey:
During your tour you will be getting on and off a train. You will be booked in Air-Conditioned Chair Car carriages, which feature reclining seats and overhead storage for a bag. Restrooms are located at the end of each carriage, though we recommend bringing your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser for convenience. Please note that train conditions in India can differ from those in the UK. Your guide will keep you informed of any changes along the way.
Your accommodation is selected for convenience, location, comfort or character. Hotel accommodation is generally rated as local three to four-star standard, but please note there is no international classification system for hotels, and differences in facilities and quality do exist between the UK and India. All group tours hotels have private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning, where needed. Rest assured that all accommodation used by Mercury Holidays is regularly inspected by our staff and partners to ensure that standards meet your needs. A triple room is available but please note that this will be a twin room with a fold away bed for the 3rd passenger.
Tents
During this tour you will stay at jungle campls. Your stay will be in a comfortable tent with en suite facilities.
Breakfast is always a combination of Indian and western style and served in the hotel each morning (sometimes a packed breakfast depending on train journey). Lunch and dinner where applicable will be taken in hotel/wayside restaurants. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours.
Please contact Customer Experience for questions about other dietary requirements or allergy information. Vegan, vegetarian and non-spicy meal options are available, all meal requests need to be sent over to our suppliers before travel.
It is not recommended to drink the tap water, even in developed countries water may contain unfamiliar elements that can cause upset stomachs. In less developed countries water is not filtered in the same way, so to ensure your comfort and well-being, two bottles of drinking water will be provided on touring days.
Alcoholic Drinks
There are some dry hotels in India, and some hotels where alcohol can be consumed on the premise but must be brought in from outside. Your guide will pre-warn you of this and if anyone in the group would like to purchase drinks before getting to the hotel then we will arrange for you to visit a local shop and get what you need wherever possible.
Dry days are when the sale of alcohol is not allowed. Most of the Indian states observe these days on major national festivals/occasions such as Republic Day in January, Independence Day in August and Gandhi Jayanti in October. Dry days are also observed during elections in India.
During visits to Churches/Temples please note long trousers or skirts should be worn to cover knees, Long sleeved tops should be worn to cover shoulders and ladies should bring a scarf to cover your head. In the Golden Temple and any other Gurudara visit it is also mandatory for men also to cover their head with a scarf.
Please note that plastic bottles are banned in the national parks so keep a reusable water bottle for your tour.
Please note that all mobile phones are banned from India’s National Parks and Tiger Reserves. Phones will need to be left at the hotel when you are on safari. You will still be able to bring cameras into the parks and reserves to take photos.
On your arrival in Mumbai you will be met by a representative from our local agent, Earthen Experiences, holding a sign displaying: “Mercury Holidays”. The Mercury Holidays/Earthen Experiences, representative will show you to your transfer vehicle. Your national guide will be on hand 24 hours a day should you have any queries.
If you need to contact Earthen Experiences during your stay the details are:
Earthen Experiences, 2 DDA Commercial Complex, Panchsheel Park, New Delhi, 110017
Telephone Number: 0091 11 4921 1000 (09:30 – 18:00)
Monday to Fridays E-mail: info@earthenexperiences.com
Please find below the emergency contact details for Earthen Experiences:
Mr. Mohammad Kaushar – General Manager: 24 hour number: 0091 98 9974 0800
E-mail Address: mohammad.kaushar@earthenexperiences.com
Mr. Anuj Negi – Director: 24-hour number: 0091 9910859004
E-mail Address: anuj.negi@earthenexperiences.com
