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Cities of India

Sunset at the Taj Mahal

Game-viewing in India

Game-viewing in India is second to none, the guides are superb and the wildlife is amongst the finest on earth. As a general rule your stay at a lodge will include a morning and afternoon game activity. This will be either a drive or ride to search for Tigers and other wildlife by open-topped jeep and possibly Elephant depending on the park. You will be accompanied by a driver and/or a guide (a mahout if you are on elephant-back) assigned by the National Park authorities. Normally jeeps can carry up to six passengers. If you wish to reserve a private vehicle and guide please enquire whether this is possible at the time of booking.

Jeep & Elephant back safaris in Kanha & Bandhavgarh

Local guides accompany all game-drives in Kanha and Bandhavgarh. Jeeps are free to follow their own route along tracks, using pugmarks and alarm calls as indicators of nearby predators. Every morning, three groups of Elephants and their mahouts are also out tracking. If they are successful then visitors may have the opportunity to view a Tiger from Elephant back.

Kanha Tiger Reserve

Kanha - Tuli Tiger Corridor

Kanha offers some of India's finest Tiger-viewing with the 2002 census counting a staggering 114 tigers. It is located in a remote part of central India in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The grasslands and deciduous forests also support 22 other mammal species including Barasingha, Chital, Muntjac, Swamp, Spotted and Barking Deer, Sambar, Common Langur and Rhesus Monkeys, Wild Boar, Asiatic Jackal, three of India's four lowland antelopes (Nilgai, Four-horned Antelope and Blackbuck) and occasionally Leopard, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Wolf and Dhole. Over 220 species of birds are found here including drongos, bee-eaters, eagles, shikras, flycatchers, partridges, falcons, orioles and the omnipresent Red Jungle Fowl. Waterholes and high plateaux such as Bahmni Dadar are excellent spots for birdwatching, and quiet locations to stop and immerse oneself in the natural peace of the jungle. Wildlifeviewing in Kanha is by jeep and elephant back.

Kanha is reached by a flight to Nagpur and then a seven hour road transfer. There are also overnight trains from Agra and Delhi to Jabalpur (approximately 15-16 hours), plus a road transfer of four to five hours. (The transfer times are very much dependent on road conditions.)

Tuli Tiger Resort , set in the buffer zone of the park, has eighteen air-conditioned cottages, each room having ensuite facilities. Public areas include an audio/video theatre, pool table, library, swimming pool and a restaurant. Tiger Corridor is a sumptuous complex of eight exclusive tents at Tuli Tiger Resort. It has its own pool, and air-conditioned restaurant.

Shergarh Tented Camp is situated four kilometres from the Mukki (southern) entrance to Kanha Tiger Reserve. Its six tents are individually spaced in a wooded grove to provide privacy, each having a verandah and private facilities.

Singinawa Jungle Lodge is set on a 25 hectare reserve just outside the Mukki gate. It has 12 air-conditioned cottages with en-suite bathrooms, a well stocked bar, dining-room, library, lounge and a swimming pool.

Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh - Kings Lodge

Bandhavgarh was formerly a royal hunting reserve of the princely state of Rewe. The Park is situated in 450 square kilometres of mixed forest in a remote part of Madhya Pradesh in central India. It is famous for its Tiger population but many other mammals are found here including Chital, Sambar, Muntjac, Nilgai, Chinkara, Four-horned Antelope, Wild Boar, Leopard and Dhole. Birdlife also abounds with over 275 species of bird including hornbills, orioles, parakeets, peacocks, and eagles. Wildlife-viewing is on Elephant back and by jeep. Bandhavgarh is reached by private road transfer from Kanha (six hours) or Khajaraho (six hours). There are also overnight trains from Delhi and Agra to Umaria Station, plus a road transfer of one hour. (Transfer times are dependent on road conditions which are variable.)

Tiger Trails Resort consists of twelve two-bedroom cottages spread over a four hectare site, each with ensuite facilities. There is a well-stocked library, restaurant and bar area. The lodge overlooks a private lake which attracts a variety of resident and migratory birds.

Camp Mewar has twelve rooms set within five hectares of beautifully wooded grounds. The camp is simple and effective, and a perfect place from which to explore the park.

Kings Lodge is set in five hectares and is surrounded by forested hills. There are four cottage rooms and eight rooms on stilts each with a lofted balcony and beautiful views. The lodge is newly constructed lodge with an eco-friendly design.

Mahua Kothi, a tented camp, is probably India's most luxurious wildlife property. Each of the 12 tents (or 'kutivas') is accessed through a private courtyard with shaded seating, traditional swings and mud floors. This beautiful resort on 20 hecatares resort has a library and pool, and an open kitchen welcoming the guest on arrival. Breakfast is arranged in the garden and picnic lunches organized under the Mahua tree.

Pench National Park

Tiger

Pench on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra has been known through the ages for its rich flora and fauna and it was a great inspiration to Rudyard Kipling. Named after the nearby river, Pench was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1983 and it covers some 760 square kilometres. Cheetal, Sambar and Nilgai are common sightings, Gaur, Sloth Bears and Dhole (Indian Wild Dog) are frequently seen, but it is most famous for its Tigers. Pench is reached via flights to Nagpur, plus a two hour road transfer. Pench combines well with Kanha which is another three to four hours.

Pench Jungle Camp consists of 12 spacious safari tents in an area of eight hectares of mature forest. Each tent is housed on a permanent platform and offers an elegant twin room setting along with ample seating space both inside and on private balcony enabling you to enjoy the view of the camp and its natural jungle environment.

Baghvan is located just five minutes drive from the park entrance. This is a new and exciting property - one of India's best. It consists of 12 suites with private shaded 'sit-outs'. There is a large sitting room with sofas, an 'interactive' open kitchen that spills out into the dining area, a library and a swimming pool.

Corbett National Park

Corbett Dhikala Guest House

Corbett National Park lies at the base of the Himalayan foothills, and was named after the legendary hunter and naturalist, Jim Corbett. His books about the hunting of man-eating Tigers and Leopards in these Kumaon hills, still provide an accurate picture of the wildlife and peoples of this region, if much of the impenetrable tract of forest that once covered all the foothills of the Great Himalaya has now gone. The park extends for 270 square kilometres, and protects an undulating land of dry foothills clothed in Sal forest and dense riverine jungle. Large areas of riverside grassland provide a third rich habitat. Corbett's rich variety of habitats, and position in the foothills, are the reason for its good population of mammals. Rhesus Macaque, Common Langur, Golden Jackal, Wild Boar, Chital, Sambar, Muntjac and Hog Deer are all common and regularly seen, whilst a good population of Indian Elephant is discreet. The park remains famous for its Tigers however which are frequently seen. The birdlife here is exceptional too with more than 620 species recorded. Wildlife viewing is by open-topped jeep and on Elephantback.

Overnight Elephant safaris are offered but the accommodation is very basic. On all occasions you will be accompanied by both a driver/mahout and guide. Corbett is reached via a long drive from Delhi of about six hours, and there is also an overnight train option.

Claridges Corbett Hideaway is concealed in the thick of a mangrove. It is a largish property with 40 well appointed rooms.

Dhikala Forest Lodge is located inside the forest overlooking the Ramganga reservoir. No comfort or luxury should be expected. It is basic. Its position maximizing the chances of seeing good wildlife give us reason to offer it as an option.

Rathuadab Forest House is a very basic government camp deep within the park. It is usually only used by those wishing to enjoy elephant-back safaris through the park. Accommodation here is in very simple rooms with Indian-style washing and toilet facilities.

Ranthambhore National Park

Ranthambore - Tiger Moon Resort_TIGERMOON003Travel_Inn.jpg

Ranthambhore in Rajasthan is famous for its Tigers and stunning scenery. It evokes all the princely splendour of this famous Rajput State and comprises rolling hills, dry dhok forest and tranquil lakes, decorated with the crumbling ruins of numerous temples and a hilltop fort. The park offers good opportunities for seeing Tigers during the day, as well as many other mammals, including Leopard, Sloth Bear, Rhesus Macaque, Nilgai, Chinkara, Wild Boar, Sambar and Chital. The birdlife here is also excellent, particularly around the lakes where you will also have the opportunity to view Marsh Mugger Crocodiles. Upwards of 300 species of bird include parakeets, storks, egrets, flycatchers, eagles and partridges.

Whilst being one of India's most famous Tiger reserves Ranthambhore is not what it used to be. The current number of tigers is disputed and is generally thought to be under 20 - down from a high of 40 or so a few years back. The game-viewing here can be frustrating as the drivers are forced to keep to certain routes which are only allocated on the morning fo the drive. Also, it is difficult to secure private jeep hire in Ranthambhore with most game drives conducted in large government gameviewing trucks (canters). On the positive side the Tigers are well acclimatised to the vehicles and their excited passengers, and do not seem at all phased by them. Ranthambhore is accessed by rail. Sawai Madhopur station is 20 minutes drive from the park entrance, and there is at least one express train daily to and from Delhi via Bharatpur. It is half a day's road transfer from Jaipur.

Tiger Moon Resort has twenty cottages and one suite are set amongst the trees on a private estate overlooking the Aravali Hills.

Khem Villas is situated on Ranthambore's northern periphery. The camp consists mainly of luxurious tents in a style originally designed for the Maharaja of Jodhpur. There are also six beautiful cottages.

Unique in India, the luxury VanyaVilas jungle resort is located right next to Ranthambhore National Park. Accommodation here is in sumptuous tents discreetly positioned around this 10 hectare private jungle estate. You can view wildlife from a watchtower, listen to a lecture on the regional flora and fauna or, in the evenings, take your seat in the amphitheatre for an evening of Rajasthani music and dance.

Panna National Park

Tiger

Panna National Park is one of India's least explored parks, and is located in central India in the state of Madyha Pradesh, 28 kilometres from Khajuraho. The park is home to Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat, Rusty-Spotted Cat, Desert Cat, Civet, Spotted Deer, Nilgai, Four-Horned Antelope, and both Marsh Mugger and Gharial Crocodiles. For bird lovers over 300 species of birds have been recorded in the park. Panna is prime Tiger country with an estimated 35 tigers, and the big cats have made a big comeback in the last seven years due to the efforts of Project Tiger. Game-viewing is by jeep, Elephant back safari and boat.

Panna is easily visited en-route between nearby Khajuraho and Bandhavgarh National Park (five or six hours drive to the south).

Ken River Lodge consists of eight deluxe safari tents amongst 15 hectares of private jungle.

Bharatpur (Keoladeo Ghana National Park)

Tree Pie

Bharatpur consists of an area of 29 square kilometres of shallow wetland, which was once the private hunting reserve of the Maharajas of Bharatpur. Declared a National Park in the 1980's, it is now one of the finest water-bird sanctuaries in the world with over 400 species of bird. Guided morning and afternoon excursions are by boat (subject to water levels) rickshaw and on foot. Mammal species here include Sambar, Chital (Spotted Deer), Nilgai, Fishing Cat, and Asiatic Jackal. A few highly endangered Siberian Cranes travel 5000 kilometres to winter in this area. Other notable species include Pallas's Sea Eagle, Black-Necked Stork, Comb Duck and the elusive Spotted Creeper.

Bharatpur is easily reached by daily express trains from Delhi or Ranthambhore, and is a couple of hours drive west of Agra on the road to Jaipur. The park is open throughout the year but the best time to visit is November to February when water levels are high and migratory birds are also in residence.

Laxmi Vilas Palace was built in 1887 for the younger brother of the then ruler of Bharatpur. The palace has been operational as a hotel since 1994. The property is well kept and the service personalized, although the amenities here are a little basic.

National Chambal Sanctuary

Chambal River

This beautiful sanctuary is a 400 kilometre stretch of the River Chambal in northern India. The Chambal ravines on both sides of the river are the product of centuries of soil erosion by flood and rain waters, and they form an incredible maze of intertwining mud cliffs, with tropical dry scrub forest. The cliffs and vegetation provide shelter for numerous birds, mammals and reptiles, in particular Gharial Crocodiles. The river itself is one of India's most pristine and as a result it is one of the last surviving habitats of the Gangetic River Dolphin. The sanctuary also provides protection for Marsh Crocodiles, eight species of Turtles and Smooth-Coated Otters. For keen birders it has an impressive bird list and is one of the most reliable places to see Indian Skimmer.

Chambal Safari Lodge is spread across an 18 hectare plantation of large shady trees. There are eight aircooled independent cottages and two air-conditioned rooms with attached bathrooms and verandahs. The lodge is largely built using local materials local craftsmen. The plantation is surrounded by fields of organically grown produce, which supply the lodges kitchen.

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam in the southern state of Kerala is located in the higher altitudes of the western Ghats near to the scenic hill station of Munnar. The park was established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered wild goat - the only one to be found south of the Himalayas.

The Windermere Hotel is a cosy guest house on the Windermere Cardamom and Tea Estate near Munnar. Accommodation is in 15 rooms spread throughout the main farmhouse and nearby cottages. Some rooms have private balconies and the valley view rooms offer spectacular views across the Chithirapuram Valley below. The farmhouse dining room offers tasty cuisine with a large balcony offering fabulous mountain views.

Kerala Backwaters

Kerala Backwaters2

Kerala's Backwaters are a vast network of lakes, canals, estuaries and deltas of 44 rivers that drain into the Arabian Sea. The backwaters are a self-supporting ecosystem teeming with aquatic life, and the canals are still the main highways for the villages in the area with over 900 kilometres navigable. One of the highlights of a trip to southern India is a trip aboard a private houseboat (built in a traditional style) for one or two nights. A typical cruise will pass through Keralan villages, surrounded by lush bright green paddy fields and soaring coconut trees. One of its charms is the possibility of observing rural life and customs without feeling intrusive. The birdlife is amazing with a huge variety of species including kingfishers, cormorants, woodpeckers, ducks, bee-eaters and raptors.

The Coconut Lagoon Hotel is a wonderful heritage hotel in the heart of the Keralan Backwaters. An ancient timber and tiled mansion with intricate carved beams sits on the eastern shores of Lake Vembanadu in the midst of a coconut plantation. Located in the grounds are 50 rooms which offer three different kinds of accommodation either on the lake shore or the canals that run through the property.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Gaur, Indian Bison

Periyar, which is located around five hours drive from Cochin is set high in the Cardamom Hills area of the Western Ghats in southern India. It is one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in the world. The park has a diverse range of flora and fauna with 1800 flowering plants, 44 species of reptiles, 112 species of butterfly and a wide range of mammals, including a large number of Elephants, Gaur, Wild Boar, four species of primate (Bonnet Macaque, the endemic Lion-Tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur and Slender Loris), Sloth Bear, Leopard, Dhole, Common and Clawless Otter and even Tiger. The reserve has a rich and varied birdlife with nearly 300 species recorded. Malabar Trogon, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Loten's Sunbird and occasionally Ceylon Frogmouth may be seen here. One of the most popular activities here is to take a boat ride on Lake Periyar to view herds of wild Elephants frolicking in the water.

Spice Village is designed as a native tribal village inspired by the tribesmen of Periyar. The rooms are spacious and furnished with simple terracotta tiled floors, wooden beds and chairs, and whitewashed walls. At the centre of the village is a swimming pool, surrounded by tropical trees and lawns. Spice Village has an exclusive and well-equipped Ayurvedic clinic. The highlight, though, is the garden itself, bursting with a rich array of spice trees. Each plant is carefully marked, and there is a resident botanist.

Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole lies 94 kilometres from the city of Mysore in southern India. It is a mixture of rich green tropical and deciduous forests with rolling hills criss-crossed by streams, swamps, rivers and waterfalls. Nagarhole, a former Maharajas hunting area, is dedicated to saving the wildlife and is considered one of the best places in India to observe Elephants in the wild. About a thousand Elephants are thought to populate the park, and in the hot summer months they congregate in large herds along the banks of the River Kabini. Other animals include Four-Horned Antelope, Spotted Deer, Mouse Deer, Gaur, Indian Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, and the elusive Leopard and Tiger. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded here, and as well as large numbers of game and water birds the park is noted for its Ospreys. Due to the large number of Elephants in the park, gameviewing and birdwatching are by jeep or early morning coracle rides.

Kabini River Lodge is a typical Indian safari lodge. The lodge was formerly the hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Mysore, and this is reflected in the colonial style architecture which offers 16 rooms spread throughout beautiful grounds which run alongside the Kabini River.

Indira Gandhi National Park

Sloth Bear

Indira Gandhi National Park is situated in the Annamalai Hills of the Western Ghats, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful nature preserves in Tamil Nadu. The park rises steeply through deciduous jungle and bamboo thickets and sightings of Gaur, Elephant and Leopard are not uncommon during the early or late hours of the day. Within the park is a hamlet known as Top Slip, named for the teak logs which were 'slipped' to the plains below down a narrow canal. The park is home to Elephant, Gaur, Water Buffalo, Sloth Bear, Tiger, Civets and an array of colourful birds.

Banyan Tree Resort is a family run farm offering friendly, comfortable home-stay accommodation on a 2500 hectare property adjacent to the Indira Gandhi National Park. There are three comfortable rooms for guests in the well appointed plantation bungalow, and a large verandah gives views across the plantations of coconuts, ground nuts, sugar cane, fruit trees, cocoa, coffee and vanilla.

Kaziranga National Park

Wild Grass Lodge

Kaziranga located in north-east India in Assam set on the banks of the mighty Brahamaputra River, is the finest place to view Indian Greater One-horned Rhinoceros in the whole of the subcontinent. With nearly 80% of the world's population resident, the park has been recognised as a World Heritage site. In addition to wonderful rhino-viewing, the park is also home to large herds of Elephant (sometimes up to 200) and Wild Buffalo. Tigers can also be found, however they are rarely seen in the long grass.

The park also shelters other species such as Sloth Bear, Leopard, Swamp, Hog, and Barking Deer, Sambar, Pygmy Hog, Jungle Cat, Hog Badger and Capped Langur. The open country makes wildlife viewing at Kaziranga fairly easy with most major species seen during a day or two's safari. It may also be possible to arrange a visit to the nearby Panabari Forest Reserve to look for the elusive Hoolock Gibbon, India's only ape. Kaziranga is also a birder's paradise with large numbers of resident species boosted considerably by visiting winter migrants. Regularly seen species include Oriental Honey Buzzard, Black-Shouldered Kite and Himalayan Griffon.

Game-viewing here is conducted both by jeep and on Elephant-back safaris. Kaziranga is reached by road from Guwahati airport, 200 kilometres away, or roughly six hours drive.

Wild Grass Resort is situated by a stream in the paddy fields and forest just outside the National Park. The lodge provides eighteen double rooms in two jungle lodges, each with en-suite facilities. Activities on offer here include jeep safaris and Elephant rides into the park, offering you the best chance to view rhinos up close.

Sundarbans National Park

The Sundarbans covers some 10,000 square kilometers of land and water (more than half of it in India, the rest in Bangladesh) in the Ganges Delta - it is the world's largest area of mangrove forest. The national park in India which was declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1989 covers an area of around 2,500 square kilometres. The region is intersected by a complex network of tidal waterways and mudflats. There are numerous bird species which reside here, as well as crocodiles, turtles, snakes and deer. Its most famous resident however is the Tiger (of which there are thought to be some 400 or so) but in reality there is little chance of seeing them due to the nature of the terrain. Wildlife-viewing is mainly conducted by boat although there are some excellent hides that can be made use of too.

Sunderbans Jungle Lodge is a simple, eco-friendly lodge which sits between the river and local paddy fields and offers six basic, but comfortable huts. The camp is run by the local villagers who offer friendly village-style hospitality and wonderful home-cooked Bengali cuisine, using the plentiful fresh local vegetables and seafood. The camp is the livelihood for many local people, directly or indirectly and its aim is to develop tourism that directly helps the local community.

Sasangir National Park

Asiatic Lion

Sansangir (widely known simply as Gir) is a large park in the Gujarat Peninsula of north-west India. The area is characterised by an arid rugged terrain with low hills and mixed vegetation with beautiful stands of teak, acacia and dhak trees interspersed with grassy plains. The park's main aim is to preserve the last healthy population of the critically endangered Asiatic Lion. As well as approximately 300 Lions, other smaller members of the cat family are well represented, namely the Jungle Cat, Desert Cat and the Rusty Spotted Cat, and there is also a healthy population of Leopard. Also to be found here are Sambar, Nilgai, Chinkara, Sambar, Black Buck, Four-Horned Antelope, Wild Boar, Indian Flying Fox, Indian Pangolin and Indian Porcupine. For birders an estimated 300 species are found in Gir, with notable species including Paradise Flycatcher, Black-Headed Cuckoo Shrike, Pied Woodpecker and Bonelli's Eagle. The area was not always a park so today the animals and birds of Gir co-exist side by side with the remaining settlements of cattle herders, and it is not unusual to see many head of livestock in the park. Gir is most easily reached by flights from Mumbai to Diu airport, 110 kilometres from the park.

Lion Safari Camp consists of 20 luxury safari tents in a beautiful setting in a private Mango Orchard overlooking the Hiran River, each with en-suite facilities. The public areas of camp consist of an open-air river-facing restaurant.

Velavadar National Park

Velavadar is a peaceful sanctuary comprised of 35 square kilometres of savannah in Gujarat. Set between two rivers and only a few miles from the Gulf of Cambay this park is home to thousands of India's endemic Blackbuck. In the days of the Maharajas of Bhavnagar these handsome antelope were protected for the occasional royal hunting trips. Other animals of note include the endangered India Wolf, fox, jackal, Jungle Cat and Wild Pig. The birdlife here is also extensive with endangered birds such as Houbara Bustard, Lesser Florican, Common Crane, Sarus White Stork and White Pelican all present.

Velavadar lies 70 kilometres north of Bhavnagar airport, and en-route visitors may also wish to visit Palitana, a magnificent complex of 863 ancient temples rising into the air on the Shatrunjaya Hill.

Nilambagh Palace is a simple hotel located at Bhavnagar. It is a most attractive building which was original built in 1859 as the residence of the crown prince. It has beautiful lawns, a pillared portico with high arches and is surrounded by forest.

Little Rann of Kutch

Wild Ass

The Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India's largest at a staggering 4,950 square kilometres. It consists of desert plains, arid grasslands, rocky and thorny scrublands, lakes and marshes. This is the last remaining home of the Asiatic Wild Ass it is a conservation success story with the asses have been returned from a population of only 800 in the 1960's to over 2,000 currently. This is not the only mammal of interest here however as the sanctuary is also home to Chinkara, Black Buck, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Jackal and Jungle Cat.

There are so many birds here that the area has been named an official Ramsar site. Birds here include Steppe, Imperial, and Short-toed Eagle, Houbara Bustard, flamingos, pelicans, storks and cranes. The best birding is during the winter months from October to March when waterfowl gather in vast numbers. These are the months when Demoiselle and Common Crane, and Lesser Flamingo are seen in incredibly large numbers.

Rann Riders Camp is a cottage camp at Dasada near the Little Rann of Kutch wildlife sanctuary. The camp has 13 self-contained twin air-conditioned cottages each resembling traditional village huts.

The Cities of India

Delhi

Delhi is actually two fascinating cities - old and new. Old Delhi pulses with energy and colour, providing a fascinating insight into the sights, sounds and aromas of the Indian sub-continent; and here you will see the enormous Red Fort (please note that this is closed on Mondays), the Jama Masjid Mosque with its tapering minarets and wonderful marble domes and the bustling bazaar of Chandni Chowk. New Delhi is a complete contrast; it is a landscaped city of wide boulevards, colonial monuments, stately palaces and formal parks. Here you find the Parliament Building - once the aweinspiring residence of the British Viceroys and now the Presidential Palace, the Raj Ghat - cremation site of Mahatama Gandhi, India Gate - a majestic memorial to the Indian Soldiers killed in World War I, the ancient and fascinating Qutab Minar tower, Humanyun's Tomb - graceful Mughal fore-runner of the Taj Mahal and finally the Birla Mandir (a large Hindu Temple built in 1938). To see the major sites of Delhi you should allow at least a day (longer if you want to see things at a more relaxed pace).

The Claridges is a first class historic hotel in the heart of New Delhi. All the beautifully appointed rooms are airconditioned and en-suite with a full range of facilities. There is also a swimming pool, four restaurants, and a health club. The Claridges has been a landmark in Lutyen's Delhi since the colonial period.

The Imperial is a five-star hotel in the centre of Delhi with 137 beautifully appointed rooms and suites. The hotel has a swimming pool, shopping arcade, health club, tennis and golf facilities, three restaurants and bar. Built in 1933, the hotel is a spacious mix of Victorian, old colonial and art deco styles, set in four hectares of beautifully landscaped grounds.

Uppal's Orchid has 84 luxurious rooms. This wellappointed and excellent hotel is located close to the airport and is the ideal place for a day-use room or short airport stopover.

Agra

Taj Mahal

The northern Indian city of Agra is home to one of the world's most iconic monuments - the Taj Mahal, a monument built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan for his Queen Mumtaz Mahal. For 22 years, 20,000 men laboured day and night to build this masterpiece in white marble which has held the world awe-struck ever since. A visit to northern India would be incomplete without a visit to this amazing building and the nearby Agra Fort, where Shah Jehan was imprisoned by his son. A short drive from the city you will find the wonderful palaces of the 'ghost city' of Fatehpur Sikri. Agra has good rail and road connections from Delhi some 253 kilometres to the north. (Please note that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.)

The Trident Hilton Hotel in Agra is a first-class hotel set in beautiful landscaped gardens just four kilometres from the Taj Mahal. The hotel combines traditional Mughal architecture with all the amenities of a modern hotel. The 138 rooms surround a central courtyard with a swimming pool and elegant fountains.

The Oberoi Amarvilas is the most luxurious hotel in Agra, and the only one where you can enjoy the luxury of your own private terrace overlooking the Taj Mahal, just 600 metres away. All the 102 rooms and suites offer full en-suite facilities. Every room in the hotel offers breathtaking views of the monument, and three suites even have bathrooms with Taj views! This hotel is truly in a league of its own and stay at the Amarvilas will never be forgotten.

Khajuraho

Today Khajuraho is a small village in a remote part of central India, but 1000 years ago it was the magnificent seat of the Chandela Kings who built 85 temples, of which 22 remain in eloquent testimony to the glory of their reign. The world-famous Chandela Dynasty Temples built between 950 and 1050 AD are famous for their sensuous and erotic sculptures which so shocked their Victorian 'discoverers'. However, the temples also offer a fascinating insight into a more liberal pre-Islamic and pre-Christian life in India, portraying every minutia of daily human life and emotions. We recommend an overnight stay here as the temples are best viewed at dawn or dusk. For the wildlife enthusiast visiting Bandhavgarh or Panna, Khajuraho's excellent hotels make a convenient, refreshing and interesting stop, and the village is easily worked into a circuit of the central Indian parks. It is just 26 kilometres from Panna National Park and roughly six hours drive from Bandhavgarh National Park. Regular express trains to and from Delhi and Agra depart from Jhansi Station.

The Jas Radisson is a five-star deluxe hotel in the village of Khajaraho. Accommodation is in 90 airconditioned rooms and suites, set amidst verdant, landscaped lawns.

Jaipur

Jaipur - Samode Palace Hotel

Jaipur is known as the 'Pink City' due to the 'pinkwashed' buildings in the traditional Rajasthani colour of welcome. There is much to see here from the old and new royal palaces, to the intricate buildings and the vibrant colourful bazaars. The highlight is the 16th century fortified palace of Amber Fort. Jaipur has good road connections and is half a day's drive from Delhi or Ranthambhore or a whole day's drive from Agra. There are also a limited number of domestic air connections.

The Oberoi Rajvilas is a luxury resort which revives the gracious lifestyles of India's legendary Rajput princes in a romantic Rajasthani Fort setting. 54 deluxe rooms, fourteen luxury tents and two luxury villas with private pools are clustered around their own private courtyards, and surrounded by orchards, gardens, temples, decorative pools and fountains.

The Samode Haveli Hotel is a small and intimate hotel in the heart of Jaipur. This former royal manor house offers first class accommodation in 29 air-conditioned and atmospheric rooms and suites. The dining room is a work of art with ceiling to floor fresco paintings.

The Samode Palace Hotel is a small, award-winning heritage hotel located in Samode village just over an hour north-west of Jaipur. This former Rajput palace offers top quality accommodation in 41 atmospheric rooms and suites. All the rooms are uniquely furnished with the local Rajasthani hand printed textiles and traditional artefacts and marble-work. The three Royal Suites have a private courtyard, Jacuzzi and fireplace. The hotel facilities include an outdoor pool with views of the ancient Aravali Mountains.

The Rambagh Palace Hotel is a deluxe 5-star hotel with superb facilities. In the finest tradition of Rajput hospitality, the Rambagh Palace offers its guests a taste of royal living in its 85 rooms and suites - a luxury and extravagance that was once the sole preserve of kings.

Mumbai

Elephant Ear

Mumbai is India's great West coast city, a vast sprawling mega-city of 18 million people. Still occasionally referred to by its colonial name Bombay, the city is an interesting mixture of modern and British neo-gothic architecture. For the wildlife enthusiast there is not much of interest, but the city does offer some interesting sightseeing for those who have the inclination or some time to spare. Mumbai is a fascinating and vibrant city where mud huts in the slums co-exist next to glamorous penthouse suites owned by Bollywood stars, movie moguls and billionaires!

The Leela Kempinski is a five star hotel within easy reach of the domestic and international airports, and just 16 kilometres from Mumbai city centre. The hotel sits in six hectares of tranquil landscaped gardens, filled with palms, serene lotus ponds and little waterfalls, and it is an excellent place to relax while visiting Mumbai.

Built in 1903 the Taj Mahal Hotel is a large and interesting hotel which brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. With panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, the hotel is a gracious landmark of the city of Mumbai, showcasing contemporary Indian influences along with beautiful vaulted alabaster ceilings, onyx columns, graceful archways and hand-woven silk carpets.

Mysore

Mysore is considered one of the most beautiful cities in India, and the highlight of any visit here is a trip to the fabulous Maharaja's Palace. In this city of palaces this stands out as a vast confection of a building with an eclectic range of tastes and styles inside and out. Inside, the palace is filled with magnificent antiques, golden elephant howdahs and thrones, Victorian tiling, stained glass, chandeliers and frescoes.

The Lalitha Mahal Palace is an historic hotel in a spectacular location on a hill overlooking Mysore. This 54 roomed hotel retains the quirky charm of a heritage property and is filled with antiques and historical oddities.

Kochi

Chinese Fishing Nets, Kochi, India by Stewart Oak

Kochi (or Cochin) is an ancient trading port and royal state, once known as 'The Queen of the Arabian Sea', located in Kerala, Southern India. The highlight of any visit here is a visit to the old town area of Fort Cochin. View the wonderful carvings and frescoes of the 16th century Dutch Palace, the Jew Street bazaar and the Parsi Synagogue with its Delft-tiled interior dating back to 1568.

You will also be able to see the Chinese fishing nets along the harbour mouth, where fish is still caught and cooked fresh in the restaurants that line the beach. On a harbour cruise you can fully appreciate the size of this fabulous natural harbour which is home to the Indian Navy, and observe the water-birds that thrive here. In the centre is the man-made Willingdon Island where some of the city's best hotels are located.

The Taj Malabar Hotel sits in a fabulous location on the northernmost tip of Willingdon Island. It commands magnificent views of the harbour from three sides and catches the cooling sea breezes. Accommodation consists of 96 rooms and suites divided between the main modern tower and a heritage wing with graceful Victorian interiors reflecting the hotel's colonial past.

Brunton Boat Yard is a beautiful hotel with 22 rooms located at the site of the original boatyard built by the 19th century boat-builder, Brunton. It is built to the Dutch and Portuguese architectural principles of early 16th and 17th century and all the rooms overlook sea. The large high ceiling rooms are well furnished and have large picture-window bathrooms.

Varanasi

Varanasi is India's Holy City. It is located in the centre of the great north Indian plain and attracts millions of pilgrims each year, coming to wash their sins away in the waters of the great River Ganges. Those who die and are cremated here are liberated from the cycle of death and rebirth, and for this reason the banks of the river are lined with fabulous palaces belonging to ancient royal dynasties, magnificent temples and cremation 'ghats'. This ancient city is believed to be one of the oldest in the world, dating back more than 3000 years. Many visitors describe a dawn boat ride on the River Ganges as the most amazing and memorable experience of their trip to India, encapsulating the entire Indian experience in a nutshell. Varanasi is well served by trains and flights to other major destinations in India and Nepal.

The Taj Ganges Hotel is a tranquil and well-appointed hotel with 130 rooms set in 20 hectares of lush green gardens.

Ooty (Udagamandalam)

The 'Queen of Hill Stations' Udagamandalam, better known as Ooty, is the most popular hill station in South India. It is located in the Western Ghats at a height of 2240 metres, and although the Toda tribe has been living here since time immemorial, the British are credited with 'discovering' Ooty, making it accessible and developing it. With its cool mountain climate Ooty became the summer capital of the Madras Presidency, in the days of the British Raj.

The town itself is very picturesque with churches, Victorian mansions and bungalows spread around steep sided hills. Some of the old ways still remain and many establishments still serve afternoon tea! One of the highlights of a visit to Ooty is a trip on the100 year old 'toy train', a narrow gauge rack and pinion railway between Ooty and Mettupalayam which is linked to Coimbatore and Chennai. The nearest airport is 100 kilometres away in Coimbatore, which is connected to Chennai, Bombay and Bangalore. Ooty is well connected by good (and scenic) roads to Coimbatore, Chennai and Mysore. Due to its altitude, summer temperatures (March to June) in Ooty are similar to those in Britain, and the rest of the year sees warm days, but cold nights.

The Savoy Hotel is an historic hotel located high on a hill overlooking Ooty. Accommodation is in 40 en-suite rooms in bungalows which are spread throughout the manicured lawns and colourful flowerbeds. The emphasis is old English charm and elegance with high tea often served on the lawns.

Kolkata

Kolkata is India's third biggest city, with a staggering population of around 14 million. It is located in the State of West Bengal, on the banks of the Hooghli River, just 60 miles from the Bay of Bengal. Today it is a major commercial city, but its illustrious history as the capital of the British Raj is reflected in some fine historical buildings and memorials. Those who have some time to spare while passing through will find more than enough to occupy them for a day's sightseeing, from the magnificent Victoria Memorial and Marble Palace Museums, to the remains of Fort William (with its dark history) and Writer's Building.

The Park Hotel is a well-appointed four star hotel located in Kolkata. The 174 air-conditioned rooms and suites are designed in a contemporary style and all have modern en-suite facilities.

The Oberoi Grand is a large luxury hotel featuring elegantly appointed rooms, excellent restaurants offering speciality cuisine and an exclusive spa and fitness centre. Centrally Located in the commercial heart of Kolkata this historic hotel is an oasis in the bustling city.

Bangalore

Bangalore is a rapidly expanding modern city and capital of the southern Indian state of Karnataka. Previously a centre for British colonial rule the city has some beautiful civic buildings and gardens dating from this time.

The Royal Orchid Hotel is a smart hotel close to the city centre. Accommodation is in 195 modern rooms and suites offering views of both the city centre and the lush green golf course next door.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling still retains some of the quaint, old-worldly colonial charm reminiscent of the days of the Raj. In the summer months the top British officials, troops and wives would decamp here en-masse to avoid the searing heat of the plains and enjoy the cool mountain air. The city has a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop of the mighty snow-clad Himalayan Peaks, including Kanchenjunga which overshadows the town. Darjeeling is surrounded by tea plantations produces one of the most famous teas in the world. It is a fascinating place of old and new buildings and customs, where you can see Buddhist monasteries, colonial bungalows and gothic mansions, visit tea plantations, or go trekking to high altitude spots near the border with Sikkim.

The Cedar Inn offers accommodation in 29 rooms in an elegant Victorian gothic building. All rooms have spectacular views of the snowy peaks of the Himalayas.

Hotel Windermere is arguably the best accommodation in Darjeeling. It was the cozy boarding area of the bachelor English and Scottish tea planters and converted into a hotel in 1939. It has 38 rooms and an enviable reputation for service.

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