Central India - Hill Forts & Palaces
Example Itinerary
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Overview
This incredible adventure takes you from the bustling streets of India’s great capital on a journey that follows in the footsteps of Mughal emperors, colonial overlords and Kipling. You’ll explore the wonderful medieval fort and monuments of Gwalior, delve into India’s oldest extant stone structure the Sanchi Stupa, explore the 10,000 year-old cave paintings of Bhimbetka, explore the historic streets of Bhopal which is also home to the largest mosque in India, camp in the jungles ...
This incredible adventure takes you from the bustling streets of India’s great capital on a journey that follows in the footsteps of Mughal emperors, colonial overlords and Kipling. You’ll explore the wonderful medieval fort and monuments of Gwalior, delve into India’s oldest extant stone structure the Sanchi Stupa, explore the 10,000 year-old cave paintings of Bhimbetka, explore the historic streets of Bhopal which is also home to the largest mosque in India, camp in the jungles of Satpura National Park and experience the tranquillity of the beaches at Goa. Begin the tour in Delhi, where you will have a chance to see the highlights of the city, before taking the train to Gwalior. Discover the huge Gwalior Fort with its Jain sculptures, Jain and Hindu temples and ruined palaces. Continue on to Bhopal, where the magnificent UNESCO treasures of the Bhimbetka cave paintings and the stunning Buddhist stupas at Sanchi and Udayagiri await. The next stop is Satpura National Park, where morning and afternoon game drives provide an ideal opportunity to search for tigers, leopards, sloth bears and a myriad of other wildlife. Then begins the highlight of the trip, a 3 day trek through this remote national park, staying at exclusive riverside camps. A final stop at the beaches and colonial marvels of Goa offers a suitably relaxing finale to this wonderful cultural and wildlife rich journey
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
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Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 ARRIVE DELHI
Arrive into Delhi airport this morning, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Later this afternoon, your guide will accompany you on a sightseeing tour to offer you a fascinating historical and cultural overview of the city. Begin in the new town, home of the British Raj, where you will visit the Rajpath from India Gate to see Rashtrapati Bhawan, the residence of the President of India. You will then visit the Humayun's Tomb, which is architecturally considered the forerunner of the Taj Mahal, and stroll through the tranquil Lodi Gardens.
Day 2 DELHI - GWALIOR
Depart the hotel early this morning to catch the train to Gwalior. You will arrive in Gwalior before midday, where you will be welcomed by your local guide. Following some time to rest at your hotel, you will spend the afternoon exploring the imposing hilltop Fort of Gwalior. Enclosed within the fort is the Mansingh Palace, once home to the Hindu ruler and his eight wives, with circular towers and intricate design work. Outside the fort you will also visit the Mother-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law Temples - they are intricately designed and are dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva respectively.
Day 3 GWALIOR
The day starts with a morning city tour of Gwalior. In the central square there is an array of different architectural styles and influences to see before heading through the narrow, teeming lanes and through the various markets, where you can spot locals having henna tattoos applied or jostling for lassis. Finally, before returning to your hotel, head to Jai Villas and Scindia Museum, an opulent palace built in 1874. The palace is festooned with furniture from France and Italy, and the two Belgian chandeliers weighing several tonnes will definitely catch your eye. The afternoon is at leisure.
Day 4 GWALIOR - BHOPAL
You will be met at your hotel and taken to the local train station for the train to Bhopal. Arrive in Bhopal early afternoon where you will be assisted to the hotel. Freshen up, after which you will have a short tour of Bhopal's historical sites. Echoing the mogul magnificence of Lahore, Peshawar and old Delhi the streets of the old town are a colourful labyrinth of narrow alleys and noisy bazaars, spectacular mosques and exquisite palaces, such as the towering Taj-ul-Majid with its reflection shimmering in the adjacent lake.
Day 5 BHOPAL
This morning you will be driven north to Sanchi to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist stupas. You will then visit Udayagiri ("Risen Mountain"), one of India's most important archaeological sites, its nearly 20 rock cut caves are protected monuments managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. Udayagiri is famous for a series of rock-cut caves and temples dating back to the Gupta Period (350-550 CE), a formative era for Hindu religious ideas.
Day 6 BHOPAL - SATPURA NATIONAL PARK
You will be picked up by your driver from your hotel in Bhopal and transferred to Satpura National Park, stopping at the Bhimbetka rock shelters en route. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site and may have been inhabited as early as 30,000 years ago. There are over 700 different caves and the rock art contained within them is thought to be some of the oldest in the world. Afterwards continue to your lodge in Satpura National Park.
Day 7 SATPURA NATIONAL PARK
A rugged mix of sandstone peaks, narrow gorges and dense forest, Satpura National Park is incredibly rich in bio-diversity. Home to over 1300 species of plants and healthy populations of tigers, leopards, wild dogs and sloth bears, the park is also a haven for the rare Indian giant squirrel. This morning and afternoon you'll take a jeep safari through the park.
Day 8 SATPURA NATIONAL PARK
Rise early this morning to depart the lodge and drive to Pachmarhi, a lovely hill station nestled in the highest peaks of Satpura. Begin your trek towards Dehelia camp, your first campsite on the 3-day trek. As you descend, see the forest transform from Sal to Teak. As you enjoy lunch beside a stream and take a dip, you will be in with the chance of seeing an array of colourful birdlife including Red-Whiskered Bulbul, Indian Nuthatch, Oriental White-eye, Common Tailorbird and Indian Yellow Tit. The next walk takes you to the picturesque and exclusive Dehelia camp, located on the banks of the Denwa River.
Day 9 SATPURA NATIONAL PARK
Wake up to the sounds of the Denwa River flowing nearby. Then depart for a walk partly along the banks of the Denwa and in pristine woodland habitat. The walk today will provide you with an insight into the magical scenery of Satpura, as you pass high sand banks, narrow waterways, and a beautiful confluence with the Bainganga river. En route there is a steep cliff that is used by the endangered Indian Vultures as a nesting site. After a lunch stop, the walk sees you leaving the Denwa river bed behind to amble through dry deciduous woodland towards Manakachar, where Reni Pani's exclusive mobile camp will be set up.
Day 10 SATPURA - BHOPAL
This morning, following a leisurely breakfast, you will be driven from camp back to the starting point at Reni Pani Jungle Lodge. Later, you will leave Satpura for Bhopal, where you will check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 11 BHOPAL – MUMBAI - GOA
Rise early today for your airport transfer. Fly to Mumbai and then connect to your flight to Goa, arriving in Goa early afternoon. You will be met by your local guide and taken to your beautiful property for a 3-night stay.
Day 12 GOA
Day at leisure. Apart from relaxing on the famous beaches of Goa, there are a range of excursions you can book through your hotel. Travel to the fishing village of Nerul via boat to uncover fishing culture here, whilst also having a go at casting a line yourself. Tour the churches of Old Goa including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and fine example of baroque architecture in India. There are also colonial architectural examples such as Reis Magos Fort, Reis Magos Church and the historic Portuguese area of Fontainhas.
Day 13 GOA
Another day at leisure.
Day 14 GOA
Another day at leisure.
Day 15 GOA - MUMBAI
You will be collected and transferred to Goa Dabolim Airport for your flight to Mumbai where you can connect with your onward flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
The Claridges, Delhi
The Claridges has been a veritable treasure in Lutyens Delhi since the 1950's. Amidst the rush of new modernity, the soul of The Claridges lives on. Refurbished, redesigned and revitalized, the hotel now offers guests an experience that is new and yet so familiar. The hotel is also in an excellent location just a short auto ride from Khan Market and not much further to Connaught Place. Under current management, the hotel has a blend of tradition and modernity. Leading designers of international repute have helped enhance the heritage and elegance of this four star hotel. There are 132 different rooms and suites, all designed with an elegant blend of 19th century character and contemporary style. Wine and dine to your heart's content in the Dhaba, inspired by rustic Punjabi villages; the Jade, serving Chinese-Cantonese cuisine; Sevilla, for all your tapas needs; Pickwicks, a multicuisine buffet that is always open; Ye Old Bakery, where the corn pudding is a must try; or the Aura, a romantic, dimly lit bar. There is also a refreshing outdoor pool, indoor gym and relaxing spa to enjoy at the end of a busy day.
Usha Kiran Palace Hotel, Gwalior
A gorgeous, discreet, five star hotel with large lushly verdant grounds and a grand entrance with impressive Mughal arches and water features, this is the best option in Gwalior. The 120-year-old palace has played host to the King of England and is now a supreme heritage hotel with a wonderful outdoor pool, poolside bar and great spa. The service is detailed and attentive and there is a small bar with a billiards table and the restaurant has great Indian and international fare.
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Satpura National Park
This is a wonderful property, situated in a picturesque location among deep forest on the fringes of the park, is owned and run by two royal princes of Bhopal and benefits greatly from their presence. Each of the 12 cottages are spaced well apart with high roofs and attractive balconies, indoor and outdoor showers, twin basins and separate loos. The rooms themselves are stylish and spacious, fitted with inverter systems (so when the power fails, your A/C and fan won't stop) and with a pre-order, drinks ice box. And most importantly each room has an assigned butler! The property also has a lovely swimming pool and sun deck, a library and small shop, the proceeds of which go to the local community. There is a large central lodge with lounge and dining areas although dinner is usually served outside. As well as the usual jeep safaris, boat trips and canoe excursions, from here you are also able to enjoy horse rides - on the family's lovely thoroughbreds - day treks through the jungle to ancient temples and cave paintings, mountain biking and village walks. Reni Pani operates predominantly on a jungle plan basis, meaning all meals and activities are included. And here they throw in your alcoholic beverages as well.
Jehan Numa Palace, Bhopal
Built in 1890 by the Nawab's second son, Obaidullah Khan, commander-in-chief of the Bhopal state forces, this former royal palace is pretty much what you would expect of a converted heritage hotel. Elegant architecture and character with pretty gardens and walkways. There is even a rather surreal horse track running around an extension of the complex. There are 100 well equipped rooms, split into various categories, and it's probably worth going for one of the higher levels, such as the regal and imperial rooms or suites which are only slightly more expensive but much nicer. There is a nice swimming pool, a modern gym, small spa, charming coffee shop and three restaurants, one of which, the Indian restaurant ‘Under The Mango Tree’, is actually rather good.
Alila Diwa Goa, Goa
A real gem of a hotel situated amidst lush rice paddy fields and a short walk to the beach. It’s a luxury hotel in south Goa adjacent to sandy Majorda beach and only a 20 minute drive from Goa International Airport. The rooms are built in contemporary Goan style and include all the modern comforts one could wish for. The resort leisure activities include the Alila Spa, swimming pool and several dining opportunities serving traditional Goan and international cuisine.
Satpura Under Canvas, Satpura National Park
Adventure through Satpura National Park on foot and in style with Satpura Under Canvas. Stay in a private mobile camp for the ultimate exclusive experience within an isolated part of Satpura. Spend the day trekking from camp to camp from Reni Pani Jungle Lodge in search of characteristic Indian flora and fauna. Due to the remoteness of the camps, facilities and amenities are simple, yet the riverside location more than makes up for the lack of luxury.
Hotel Rating
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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EXPERT TEAM
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WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
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Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Shalmali
Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Shalmali by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258
OTHER ITINERARIES IN INDIA
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