Most travellers think of tigers when they think of an Indian safari, and, while tigers are magnificent, for this journey we will take you off the tiger trail to explore wetlands, grasslands, river systems, and Himalayan forests where some of India’s most fascinating and endangered species still thrive.
This journey takes you through West Bengal’s wetlands, the tea country and grasslands of Assam, and the cool mountain forests of the Darjeeling–Sikkim Himalaya, deep into some of India’s most important wildlife habitats, offering a rare chance to see some of Asia’s most endangered species — and play a part in their protection.
Our adventure begins in the wetlands of Baghrol Basa, one of the very best places to see the elusive Fishing Cat in the wild. Guided night tracking gives you an experience few travellers ever have, while supporting community-based conservation.
Next stop: Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stronghold for Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros, wild Asian Elephants and Swamp Deer. Private safaris let us explore multiple zones at our own pace, with a special excursion to Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary for a chance to see India’s only apes, the Hoolock Gibbons.
From there, a boat safari on the Brahmaputra River brings us close to endangered Ganges River Dolphins, and a meeting with the inspiring Hargila Army shows how local communities are saving the rare Greater Adjutant Stork from the brink.
Our journey ends in the cool Himalayan foothills of Singalila National Park, where skilled local trackers guide us each day in search of the charming and endangered Red Panda — a once-in-a-lifetime encounter for wildlife lovers.
If you are looking for a journey that goes beyond ordinary safaris, with close-up encounters, expert guiding, and a strong conservation story, this is the one to book.
Price
Fast Facts
Includes
Price
13 nights £6395 GBP
Single supplement £1980
An extension into Nepal is available. Contact Lesley to discuss,
Notes on Red Panda Trekking: The trekking for Red Pandas depends entirely on where the animals are sighted. A team of trackers is always out in the forest searching for them, and once a sighting is located, they inform us and we walk to the spot. Sometimes the Red Panda may be right next to the road, requiring only a 5-minute walk, while on other occasions it could be deeper in the bamboo forests with a walk of around 20–25 minutes.
The terrain can occasionally be steep, but there will always be trackers accompanying the guests to guide and assist them throughout, making the experience as comfortable as possible. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but guests can be reassured that they will have support at all times.
Fast Facts
14 Days / 13 Nights
Includes
Accommodation in Baghrol Basa, Diphlu River Lodge and Shikhar Tarry on a Full Board basis
Accommodation in Guwahati and Kolkata on a Bed & Breakfast basis
All transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, starting and ending at Kolkata airport
Accompanying Indian naturalist throughout the trip
5 private game drives in Kaziranga
All activities (3 days of Red Panda tracking), naturalist and guide services at Shiktar Tarry Lodge
Entrances to National Parks
Domestic flights
All currently applicable taxes.
