Ameliya's Itineraries
Safari and Festival of colours | 6N7D
Safari & Festival of Colours
Begin your exciting adventure in the lively city of New Delhi, where you’ll check into your hotel and have the chance to relax or explore nearby sights. Discover iconic landmarks like Humayun’s Tomb and the Red Fort, and take a fun rickshaw ride through bustling markets before enjoying a delicious meal at the famous Bukhara restaurant. Next, head to a cozy lodge in Bandhavgarh National Park where your friendly host will guide you through a personalized experience. Enjoy thrilling morning safaris to spot amazing wildlife, join in the colorful celebrations of Holi with music and laughter, and savor tasty meals surrounded by nature. This unforgettable journey wraps up with leisurely mornings and warm goodbyes, leaving you with lasting memories of India’s rich culture and beautiful wildlife.
AMELIYA SIGNATURE SAFARI EXPERIENCE:
- 6 Nights and 7 Days.
- 4 Guided Safaris
- All meals & accommodations included.
- Exclusive Safaris, Signature Sundowner & Bush Dinner.
$2920
Twin Sharing Room (Per person)
$5150
Single Occupancy Room
$4250
Twin Sharing Room (Per person)
$7325
Single Occupancy Room
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, tea/coffee, evening snacks
- Park Conservancy fees, morning and evening game drives in a shared vehicle, and supplemental walks.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Tips, international flights & transfers, additional activities, visa fees, travel & medical insurance, exclusive vehicle.
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the participants.
- Transfers to and from the National Park are not included in this itinerary but can be arranged for an additional cost.
- Any changes in the park fees or taxes.
Payment Terms
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- 50% need to be paid at the time of booking, 25% is due 120 days prior to the trip start date and 25% 90 days prior.
- The preferred mode of payment is Bank Wire. All card transactions will incur a 3.5% service fee.
- Rates are subject to change and are not applicable for Christmas/New Years. Rates are valid for 2024 only. Rates for 2025 will incur a 10% hike.
- Any changes in government taxes and park/conservancy fees have to be borne by the guests.
- We reserve the right to revise any published costs without prior notice. However, confirmed bookings will be honoured.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is done.
- The remaining amount will be refunded if cancellation is done 120 days prior to the tour start dates. Between 90-120 days, 35% is refunded.
- No refund if cancellation is done between 0 – 90 days of the trip start date. Amendment in dates within 90 days from arrival is treated as a cancellation.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be the date considered for the calculation of the cancellation fees.
- The cancellation amount is calculated as per the total booking amount and not as per the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds are processed minus bank charges.
Day 1
Your experience begins when you arrive at the New Delhi Airport. A vehicle will be waiting to take you to the hotel. Settle in for the day, take time to either unwind and relax, or explore the area around your hotel. Bread & Breakfast are included in your overnight stay in New Delhi.
Day 2
After breakfast get ready for a full day of exploration in the comfort of your private vehicle with a knowledgeable driver-guide. Marvel at historical wonders like Humayun’s Tomb – the tomb of Mughal emperor, and Red Fort that historically served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. Immerse yourself in the local culture by browsing the ancient street markets like Chandini Chowk on a rickshaw. Take a lunch break at the world famous Bukhara, a restaurant celebrated for its iconic Tandoor-cooked Indian dishes served in a rustic-chic space with an open kitchen located at the award-winning ITC Hotel.
Qutub Minar and India Gate stand as majestic testaments to India’s rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance, each telling a story of its own. The Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, soars to an astounding height of 73 meters, making it the tallest brick minaret in the world. Its intricate carvings and stunning calligraphic inscriptions, crafted in the 12th century, showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of Indo-Islamic architecture, inviting visitors to marvel at its historical significance.
India Gate, an imposing war memorial built in 1931, honours the brave soldiers who died during World War I and the Anglo-Afghan Wars. This grand archway, reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, is framed by lush green gardens, vibrant flowerbeds, and the hustle and bustle of urban life, serving as a beloved gathering place for families, picnickers, and tourists alike. Together, Qutub Minar and India Gate highlight India’s architectural diversity and resonate with its people’s pride and resilience, making them must-visit landmarks that capture the essence of the nation’s storied past.
Day 3
Take an early morning flight followed by a road transfer that’ll take you to your lodge
Upon arrival, you will meet your Ameliya Private Guide and Host, who will go over the plan for the next few days and understand your preferences so they can fine-tune things more personally. Post-lunch, settle into your charming cottages and have some time to unwind before a guided nature walk or community visit in the evening.
DAY 4
Rise early for a refreshing cup of coffee before embarking on another exciting morning safari. Watch your guide expertly navigate the jungle roads and show how to identify tracks & signs, spot animals, understand their behaviour, and capture stunning photographs.
Afternoons bring wholesome, authentic, 3-course meals, and an opportunity for some much-needed rest before you leave for the evening safari which ends at sunset – with beautiful pink skies, and the slow rising moon. Back to the lodge by 7 pm. Drinks and dinner by the fire and under a thousand stars.
Day 5
Enjoy a leisurely morning in wild India. Post-breakfast, partake in Holi celebrations, a vibrant festival of colours. We will have traditional white kurtas ready for you – a garb which is worn on auspicious Hindu festivals. The atmosphere on Holi is filled with music, traditional sweets, savoury snacks and lots of colour – creating a joyful energetic and memorable experience.
In the evening you can opt for a nature walk, visit the village and local temples, or simply relax at the lodge.
DAY 6
Rise early for a refreshing cup of coffee before embarking on another exciting morning safari. Watch your guide expertly navigate the jungle roads and show how to identify tracks & signs, spot animals, understand their behaviour, and capture stunning photographs.
Afternoons bring wholesome, authentic, 3-course meals, and an opportunity for some much-needed rest before you leave for the evening safari which ends at sunset – with beautiful pink skies, and the slow rising moon. Back to the lodge by 7 pm. Drinks and dinner by the fire and under a thousand stars.
Day 7
Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace. After a heartwarming breakfast, it’s time for check-out and say your goodbyes to your new safari family – Bringing your Safari and Festival of colours itinerary to an end.
Experiences
Game Drives
Night Safari
Conservation
Birding
Bush Meals
Tribal Dance
Nature Walk
Temple Visit
Culture
Bandhavgarh National Park
Nestled deep in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, this 1538 sq km haven is renowned for its dense tiger population – one of the highest in the world. As you embark on a safari through the diverse landscape of Bandhavgarh, you’ll soon notice that tigers aren’t the only beings that attract wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world.
PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION
The Kings Lodge, BANDHAVGARH
Kings Lodge is a luxurious eco-friendly resort nestled between Sal forested hills of Bandhavgarh National Park in a large natural forested estate of 35 acres. The lodge is environmentally sensitive, harmonious with the site’s natural features and is built in a manner that accentuates natural daylight to all facilities. Local knowledge and art have been incorporated in the development and the lodge has been constructed using local manpower. The guests benefit from its incredible location, award-winning hospitality, an experienced team of naturalists, a farm-to-table culinary experience, and the company’s commitment to conservation and the local community’s upliftment.
Amenities
- Outdoor barbeque and bush dinners
- A watch tower or machan, ideal for bird watching.
- Open-air swimming pool with Sundeck
- Organic Kitchen garden butterfly garden
- Nature library, nature Trails and lookouts
- In-house spa with Ayurvedic Massage Treatments
LUXURY ACCOMMODATION
Samode Safari Lodge, BANDHAVGARH
Samode is a luxury safari lodge made in vintage hunting manor architecture and has 12 large villas with a village-styled theme, along with all modern amenities. The rooms have an ensuite bath, a deck, and an open shower with an earthy tub. The Samode Safari Lodge is bordered by the jungles on one side and a small tribal village on the other. Their farm-to-table culinary experience aims to enthral every traveler’s palette, and their impeccable attention to detail and hospitality ensures an unforgettable experience for the guests.
Amenities
- Wi-Fi
- Outdoor Dining Experience
- Bar & Lounge
- Fitness Centre & Steam Room
- Open-air swimming pool with a sundeck
- In-house spa with Ayurvedic Massage Treatments
$2920
Twin Sharing Room (Per person)
$5150
Single Occupancy Room
$4250
Twin Sharing Room (Per person)
$7325
Single Occupancy Room
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, tea/coffee, evening snacks
- Park Conservancy fees, morning and evening game drives in a shared vehicle, and supplemental walks.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Tips, international flights & transfers, additional activities, visa fees, travel & medical insurance, exclusive vehicle.
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the participants.
- Transfers to and from the National Park are not included in this itinerary but can be arranged for an additional cost.
- Any changes in the park fees or taxes.
Payment Terms
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- 50% need to be paid at the time of booking, 25% is due 120 days prior to the trip start date and 25% 90 days prior.
- The preferred mode of payment is Bank Wire. All card transactions will incur a 3.5% service fee.
- Rates are subject to change and are not applicable for Christmas/New Years. Rates are valid for 2024 only. Rates for 2025 will incur a 10% hike.
- Any changes in government taxes and park/conservancy fees have to be borne by the guests.
- We reserve the right to revise any published costs without prior notice. However, confirmed bookings will be honoured.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is done.
- The remaining amount will be refunded if cancellation is done 120 days prior to the tour start dates. Between 90-120 days, 35% is refunded.
- No refund if cancellation is done between 0 – 90 days of the trip start date. Amendment in dates within 90 days from arrival is treated as a cancellation.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be the date considered for the calculation of the cancellation fees.
- The cancellation amount is calculated as per the total booking amount and not as per the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds are processed minus bank charges.
GENERAL QUERIES
SINGLE OCCUPANCY VS TWIN SHARING ROOMS
There are two categories of rooms:
1. Single Occupancy: Where you get the entire room to yourself
2. Twin-Sharing: Where you are paired up with another member of the group and share the room with them
The cost of the tour is per-person.
IS THIS TOUR FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS ONLY?
No, this tour is for everyone interested in exploring the beauty of our natural world. Take back experiences and memories of a lifetime, make new friends who share a similar interest, and most importantly connect with nature.
You can arrive without a camera, and just take back memories and experiences.
THIS TOUR IS FOR YOU
MEDICAL FACILITIES
All Central Indian National Parks are located in a very remote region of India with the nearest hospitals being 4 hours away.
Important Notes:
- Please carry your personal medications.
- Expecting mothers, patients with heart conditions, and any other health ailment that require constant medical attentions are advised not to travel.
PHOTO IDENTITY
Please ensure that you are carrying a Government issued photo ID with you at all times during your travel.
For foreign nationals, a valid passport and visa is required for travel to India and entry into the National Park
FOOD ALLERGIES
If you are allergic to any food items, kindly inform at the time of check-in. A delectable spread of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food is served at all the lodges. Breakfast is the combination of variety and choices from the varied cuisine and is usually served in the park, during the safari itself.
ACCESS TO INTERNET
All lodges have basic internet connection. The offices in the lodges have an extra computer which can be used free of cost for emailing. Internet may not be reliable at all times as breakdowns take time to fix as we are remotely located.
PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATION
If you are simply coming to enjoy the beauty of the national park and learn more about wildlife from Suyash, then you don’t need to bring any equipment with you.
If you are coming on this trip to learn photography then you are strongly recommended to bring your own camera. We suggest brining a combination lenses, such as a zoom lens as well as a wide-angle lens. Super telephoto lenses are also excellent. If you would like to rent any equipment, please contact us in advance.
Smartphones are also very handy these days and your Ameliya Guide/ Photography Mentor can train you on the best way to use them.
ESSENTIALS
WHAT TO PACK
Practical colors to wear to the park are khaki, beige and white in all seasons. Please avoid bright and flashy clothing and strong perfumes/deodorant. It is advisable not to wear sandals or shorts during nature walks
Here are some of our packing suggestions:
- Light cotton trousers & cotton shorts
- Light cotton shirts (long & short sleeved)
- Cotton socks & comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals
- Showerproof rain jacket/ windbreaker
- Hats, sunglasses & scarves
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Insect Repellents
For winters, pack extra:
- Heavy woolen clothing
- Woolen hats
- Scarves and gloves
- Fleece
HOW TO REACH
- Jabalpur is the closest airport to Bandhavgarh (approx. 3.5-hour drive)
- Umaria Railway Station is a 45-minute drive (approx.) and Katni Railway Station is 2hours away (approx.)
- We can coordinate with you for transfers to/from the airport/railway station. We generally do carpool for guests arriving at around the same time. Please note that all such transfers will be at an additional cost. Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh one way is INR 7,500 per vehicle.
- You can also drive to Bandhavgarh if you wish. The roads in Madhya Pradesh are excellent
IDEAL FLIGHT TIMINGS
We recommend that you book any flight which arrives in Jabalpur before 12:00 pm on the day that the tour begins and any flight that leaves after 5:00 pm on the day that the tour ends.
WEATHER/TEMPERATURE
Central India has a variable climate and weather conditions across the year.
The park are open from October 1st to June 30th
October to Mid-November: Mild weather but mornings can be cold and afternoons can get warm some times
Mid November to February: Are peak winter months with temperatures going as low as 4 decrees celsius on some days, but usually remain between 10 and 20 degrees celsius with incredibly pleasent afternoons where temperatures can go up-to 25 degrees. Guests should layer up during these times of the year and shed the layers as it gets warmer.
Mid February to Late March: Cool mornings and nights, but warm afternoons.
April – June: The weather is mild in the early mornings and late nights but afternoons can get very hot. They remain dry in April and May but when June rolls around, the weather gets humid and mid June onwards there are chances of rain.