Delighted Journey

What to see in Ladakh?

Delighted Journey – The topography of Ladakh borders on the surreal, but the emotions it evokes in the minds of the beholder are very real. Craggy mountains overlook the cerulean waters of lakes whose origins are mysterious. Hymns emanating from monasteries, perched precariously on mountain cliffs, permeate the air with a sense of spirituality. At an altitude of almost 3,500 meters, this “land of high passes” constantly surprises you. You don’t seek adventure in places like these, it comes at you. Deserts rest lifelessly against snow-capped mountains, occasionally green patches are overlooked by huge brown mountains, which often appear sagacious. This is the place for visitors who want to see the pure and rugged face of nature. In this blog, we tell you some of the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh, the memories of which remain etched in your mind for a long time write to us to organize your trip to India. Ladakh Holidays – Leh Palace Leh Palace, also known as “Lhachen Palkhar”, catches your attention from afar with its grey color, contrasting with the blue sky. Built by Buddhist kings in 1553, it once held the distinction of being the tallest building in the world. It shares a striking resemblance to the famous Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. While the exteriors of Leh Palace offer magnificent views of the Stok Kangri and Ladakh mountain ranges, the interiors of Leh Palace are beautifully decorated with old paintings and pictures that include Tibetan thangka or sooth paintings. The interior of Leh Palace, however, contains an exquisite collection of jewelry, crowns, and ceremonial robes. Ladakh Holidays – Shanti Stupa in Leh Shanti Stupa in Leh stands as a commemoration of 2,500 years of Buddhism and seeks to promote peace and prosperity in the world. One has to drive about 5 km from Leh airport to reach this monument, followed by a climb involving 500 steps. It is a two-tiered structure, with the first tier containing a Dharmchakra and a central image of Lord Buddha, and the second tier depicting the various forms of Lord Buddha. This white-domed stupa, also known as a Chorten, rests on a hill and is one of the famous tourist attractions of Leh city. Its beauty is enhanced during the night. This structure was built by Buddhists from Ladakh and Japan, while the Ladakhis offered voluntary labor. Ladakh Holidays – Leh Market People who have visited Leh often talk about how wonderful its market is, and on a first visit to the market, one would think that the entire population of the region has gathered there. The narrow streets of the market are lined with stalls selling everything from local handicrafts and souvenirs to Pashmina shawls and woolen clothes.A special attraction is the Tibetan Refugee Market where you will find all kinds of locks with unique carvings and artifacts. Elderly women displaying various handicrafts and jewelry are a common sight. However, whether you make a purchase or not, a visit to the main market in Leh is desirable in itself as it offers a unique glimpse of the local people and their way of life. Ladakh Holidays – Hall of Fame One of the many attractions in Leh is the Hall of Fame. The layout of the museum is a sight to behold, while inside, the two large halls showcase various aspects of Ladakhi history and culture. However, the museum mainly commemorates the role of the Indian Army in Ladakh and its various contributions to the entire region. Two examples are its huge contribution during the cloud relief in 2010 and the battles fought with Pakistan. The museum is attached to an adventure park that consists of an assault course for children. However, if a coffee or lime drink is your thing, the museum is attacked with an elegant Aroma Café. Ladakh Holidays – Chang La Pass Hold onto your seats as your car takes on dangerous twists and turns on one of the highest mountain roads in the world, Chang La Pass. At an altitude of around 17, 590 feet, this pass is mostly covered in snow. This pass is on the way to Leh from Pangong Lake. Due to its proximity to the Chinese border, this pass is protected and maintained by the Indian Army. However, frequent snowfall often creates little trouble. Passes like these test your driving skills and tell you about the real thrill. Ladakh Holidays – Pangong Tso Lake Ladakh TravelPangong Tso Lake was made famous in the movie “3 Idiots”, where certain footage was shot. Situated at a height of almost 14,270 feet and 5 km wide at its widest point, this lake is the most famous lake among the other lakes in Leh Ladakh, it is a sight to behold. However, it is worth knowing that despite containing salt water, it remains frozen during the winter. This is the kind of place whose beauty can be absorbed gradually, in stages. Spend an entire day here and you will see the waters reflecting the particular time of the day. The migratory birds gliding on its waters are a mesmerizing sight. During sunrise and sunset, the lake looks like a perfectly painted portrait. Ladakh Holidays – Tso Moriri Lake The waters of Tso Moriri Lake sparkle in the sunlight and form strange shapes in the clouds above. Located at an impressive latitude of about 13,123 feet, the lakes impress visitors with both its size and its ethereal beauty. The entire landscape here is mesmerizing and gives a romantic feel. Tso Moriri Lake is also a part of the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve and has the distinction of being the highest Ramsar site in the world. The lake remains frozen from January to March. Although the lake is located at a distance of about 250 km from Leh, the spectacular views here are worth visiting. Ladakh Holidays – Tso Kar Lake Tso Kar Lake is one of the many tourist attractions in Ladakh. It is also called the

Best National Parks in India

Hardly any other reserve in India embodies the Jungle Book feeling more than Kanha. Central India’s largest national park captivates with its diverse landscape. Lush sal tree and bamboo forests alternate with wide green meadows that support more than 22 species of mammals. There are horse and axis deer, four-horned and nilgai antelopes as well as Indian gazelles, sloth bears, jackals, hyenas and langurs, as well as more than 240 species of birds such as ibises, ducks, cormorants, darters, herons, stilts, storks, vultures, sea eagles and shrikes. And not forgetting all the more slippery animals: the reptiles, including the Ganges gharial. Here, within an astonishing landscape and some unique archaeological sights, you will encounter a true natural spectacle of the animal world. There are still around 70 tigers living in the protected area of ​​almost 20,000 square kilometers. Considering the enormous size of these parks and the fact that only 300 square kilometers are accessible to tourism, it takes a lot of luck to even see a tiger. The park is divided into four zones, of which Kanha and Mukki are the most recommended in terms of the possibility of tiger sightings. The grandiosity of the landscape, the above-average quality of the lodges and its abundance of animals are what put Kanha at the top of our list. RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK In Northern India, on the eastern border of Rajasthan, between the Thar desert and the Aravalli, it is one of the parks that attracts the most tourists. Once a hunting reserve for the sovereigns, in 1972 it was declared a national park under the protection of Project Tiger, because in the reserve live in the wild about thirty Indian tigers as well as other animal species (blue antelopes, leopards, hyenas, deer, bears, leopards, jungle cats, a variety of birds and so on). The fortune of the Park is also due to its position close to the Golden Triangle as the itinerary that includes Delhi, Agra and Jaipur is called (from which it is 150 km away). The national park, dotted with Banyan, the large Indian trees that provide great shade, is surrounded by two rivers, the Banas and the Chambal and is bathed by Lake Talao Padam. Another guest of Rathambore is the 10th century Fort, on a rock at the entrance to the Park, built in 944 which houses various temples including the one dedicated to Ganesh, among the most beautiful in Rajasthan. Closed from July to mid-September. Between November and May the climate is pleasant but even in the dry season (October – March) sightings are likely as the animals come out of the forest to drink from the lake. KANHA NATIONAL PARK Kanha National Park, in Madhya Pradesh, one of the largest in India (1940 km2 – three entrances, the two main ones, at opposite ends of the park, are 4 hours drive apart – altitude 600-900 m above sea level) is known for the community of Indian tigers, about 250, that permanently inhabit it. Established in 1955 by a special law, it extends over vast grassy meadows, rocky peaks, forests of teak, bamboo and other types of trees, in numerous lakes rich in aquatic plants, and in large grasslands inhabited by various species of deer, including the rare species of Barasingha deer, with “twelve horns”. The park is home to a vast wildlife, including wild buffalo, wild dogs, pythons, bears (about 150), leopards (about 80), sambar, and many others. It is in this park that the writer Rudyard Kipling imagined the stories told in the famous novel “The Jungle Book”. The park is closed from July 1st to October 15th. The best season to visit is from February to June. The months of December, January and March are the months of maximum crowding. From March to June the heat is intense but the chances of spotting animals that approach the waterways to drink increase. KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK If your itinerary includes a visit to Agra, the city that hosts the famous Taj Mahal, then you are on the right road to reach the Keoladeo National Park, in Rajasthan, just 50 km from this city. Rajasthan, already a great attraction for tourists who visit this state for its magnificent historical testimonies, continues to give its best also with this natural reserve, a UNESCO world heritage site since 1985. Also an ancient reserve for hunting ducks of the Jat maharajas, declared a National Park in 1981, today it is the main ornithological reserve in India, a sanctuary for many stable and migratory birds, including rare species, even from China, Siberia, Europe and Tibet that come here to inhabit the lakes and marshes where they reproduce. After the heavy rains, even water birds such as cranes, geese, pink flamingos, storks, pelicans and many others find their favorite refuge in Keoladeo. Cohabitants of these wonderful birds are some mammals including the blackbuck, the bluebuck, wild boars, chital, sambar and even pythons. The Park, which extends for 29 square kilometers, is located in Bharatpur (150 km from Jaipur and 18 km from Fatehpur Sikri), already interesting in itself for its temples, markets, palaces and other monuments. The Park is open every day with different hours depending on the period. You can visit the Park, particularly fascinating in the evening and in the morning, on foot, by bicycle, by rickshaw. SARISKA TIGER RESERVE Included in the Project Tiger this park in Rajasthan right in the Aravalli hills, a protected natural reserve since 1955 and ancient hunting reserve of the sovereigns of the State, is rich in wildlife over an area of ​​about 500 square kilometers. The closest cities are two of the cities of the Golden Triangle, Jaipur, from which it is about 2 hours by car, 140 km.), and Delhi (from which it is about 4 hours by car, 170 km.). Those who visit the Park have something in common, seeing the royal tiger that inhabits this reserve and lives in the wild. This beautiful animal is however in

Highlights:- National Park in India

Kanha National Park Hardly any other reserve in India embodies the Jungle Book feeling more than Kanha. The largest national park in central India impresses with its diverse landscape. Lush sal tree and bamboo forests alternate with wide green meadows that support more than 22 species of mammals. There are horse and axis deer, four-horned and nilgai antelopes as well as Indian gazelles, sloth bears, jackals, hyenas and langurs, as well as more than 240 species of birds such as ibises, ducks, cormorants, darters, herons, stilts, storks, vultures, sea eagles and shrikes. And not forgetting all the more slippery animals: the reptiles, including the Ganges gharial. Here, within an amazing landscape and some unique archaeological sights, you will encounter a true natural spectacle of the animal world. And of course there is also Shir Khan, the king of beasts. There are still around 70 tigers living in the protected area of ​​almost 20,000 square kilometers. Considering the enormous size of these parks and the fact that only 300 square kilometers are accessible to tourism, it takes a lot of luck to even see a tiger. The park is divided into four zones, of which Kanha and Mukki are the most recommended in terms of the possibility of tiger sightings. The grandiosity of the landscape, the above-average quality of the lodges and its abundance of animals are what put Kanha at the top of our list. Corbett National Park At the foot of the Himalayas lies the breathtaking Jim Corbett National Park, famous for its tigers. India’s oldest national park was founded in 1935 at the suggestion of Jim Corbett, who converted from a big game hunter to an animal rights activist, and is therefore the oldest national park in India and one of the most species-rich. The 1,300 km² extremely picturesque reserve is home to over 200 tigers, 300 elephants, sloth bears, langurs, rhesus monkeys, peacocks, deer and much more. The long mouths of the Ganges gharials rest peacefully on the crystal clear waters of the Ramganga River and up to 600 species of birds look out at visitors from the evergreen treetops. Of course, many come in the hope of catching a glimpse of the striped cat. But in reality, tigers turn out to be a difficult creature to find and are not often seen in Corbett. However, Corbett offers much more than just tigers: Unique for India is the possibility of staying overnight within the park boundaries. A total of eight former hunters’ huts are scattered throughout the park and can be used by visitors with advance booking. Staying overnight in the middle of the forest is a fantastic opportunity that every serious animal lover should take advantage of. Dikhala is the most popular of the so-called rest houses in Corbett, but the little-known Bijrani and Kinnanauli rest houses are the most recommended in terms of animal encounters. In the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary to the north, the Halduparao rest house offers an intimate nature experience off the beaten track. Satpura Satpura is undoubtedly the best-kept pearl in tiger-rich central India. Hardly anyone has heard of this small national park south of Bhopal. Although there are no tigers to be found in Satpura, this protected area boasts one of the densest populations of sloth bears in India, a breathtaking forest with deep gorges and waterfalls, and a wonderful non-commercial character that captivated us. Walking safaris are an absolute must-do in Satpura, as walking safaris are not possible anywhere else in India. Together with some of India’s best nature guides, you will hike along impassable paths in the hope of seeing Satpura’s most famous forest dweller, the sloth bear. Game drives and boat trips are of course also possible. The extraordinary range of activities completely off the tourist route make Satpura a unique destination in Madhya Pradresh. Satpura is also home to two of the best nature lodges in all of India. With so many advantages, we can only be completely delighted. It’s true: We have fallen irrevocably in love with Satpura. And you will too. Nagarhole Home of the black panther. The most famous national park in the state of Katarnaka, South India, consists of a dense jungle with rare tropical woods and a large number of wild animals. The heart of the park is the large Kabini reservoir, which extends over an area of ​​2,140 km² and represents a man-made border between Nagarhole and the adjacent Bandipur National Park. On boat safaris in the reservoir and along the Kabini River, you will often see large herds of elephants for which the national park is known. If you are after leopards, Nagarhole also has the best chance in all of India of seeing one of the spotted cats lounging in a tree during a game drive. Another highlight of Nagarhole are the large packs of wild dogs that roam the Nagarhole and Bandipur area. Tiger sightings are very rare in Nagarhole despite the relatively large tiger population. Tadoba Tiger Reserve Tadoba has become an El Dorado for tiger fans from all over the world. Only 5-6 years ago, this small reserve in the west of the country was a well-kept secret among safari connoisseurs in India. Even today, Tadoba has the lack of tourist infrastructure to thank for not experiencing an explosive tourist boom like other more well-known tiger reserves. However, no one can claim that Tadoba is a quiet idyll in complete isolation. Today, every serious tiger fan knows that Tadoba is the destination when it comes to maximizing the chances of a successful tiger sighting. Tigers gather on Tadoba’s tracks like dust on tires. There are plenty of both in Tadoba. Very effective surveillance measures with hidden cameras to protect against poaching have led to the tiger population in Tadoba increasing dramatically within just a few years. The 624 km² reserve had 60 tigers in 2014, and there are now 80 – and the number is rising. Snow leopard trekking (Hemis National Park) Tracking the snow

Animals in India

Animals in India, With over 350 species of mammals and well over 1000 species of birds protected in over a hundred national parks, India is a fascinating and magical destination, primarily for its amazing culture, but still incredibly rewarding for the animal lover. The highlights for them are many: whether stalking tigers in the dense jungle, photographing snow leopards from afar or encountering a cute red panda on foot. Although more sparse than the wildlife in Africa, the country offers some exciting wildlife encounters that combine perfectly with its vibrant culture. The country’s habitats range with Animals in India from the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the forests, lakes and steaming backwaters of Kerala in the south, creating a unique wealth of biodiversity that is sure to delight any animal lover. Almost all visitors come here for the Bengal tiger, but other very special species such as the snow leopard, Asiatic lion, Asiatic elephant, Indian rhinoceros, sloth bear and red panda also live here. For all of these species you will find specially designed safaris that focus on observing them in the wild. Asiatic Lion As a subspecies of lion, the Asiatic lion is also known as the Indian lion or Persian lion. Originally widespread throughout Asia, it is now only found in the wild in the Indian state of Gujrat in the Gir National Park. The Asiatic lion is slightly smaller than the lion that lives in Africa, but is otherwise very similar to it. The packs are slightly smaller, so the female lions in the Gir National Park live together in groups of two to six individuals and their young. During the colonial period, lions were heavily hunted and almost wiped out, in 1913 there were only 20 individuals. With the ban on lion hunting by the Indian government in 1955 and the establishment of the Gir National Park ten years later, the population was able to grow steadily. Today, the Asiatic lion population is estimated at 250 to 300 specimens, making it on the Red List of endangered species. Gir National Park is one of the smaller national parks, with a core area of ​​258 km² and a total area of ​​1153 km², and is very well visited due to the Asiatic lions that live here. The safaris offered are carried out on fixed routes and with a set time limit, early planning is recommended. You also need a bit of luck to see lions there. Tiger Once widespread throughout Asia, tigers now only live on the Indian subcontinent and in remote regions of Southeast Asia, in the Russian Far East with adjacent parts of northern China, and on the island of Sumatra. The tiger’s habitats are tropical rainforests, swamps, grasslands or boreal forests. The tiger is a loner and feeds mainly on larger ungulates. Young animals stay with their mother for up to three years, so they are often found together. Tigers are nocturnal hunters, but they are also active at dusk and occasionally hunt during the day. They can cover very long distances in search of prey. Unlike other big cats, tigers are excellent swimmers and like to go into the water. Due to their size, tigers are poor climbers and only climb large trees in an emergency. With hunting during the colonial period, the tiger population declined sharply. Today, the destruction of habitats through deforestation, illegal hunting and the prohibited trade in tiger products on the black market, represent a continuing threat to tigers. With increasing population pressure in Animals in India and the expansion of cities, the tigers’ available territories are increasingly shrinking and they are having to move to areas outside the protected areas, where they are hunted as a threat to humans and domestic animals. It is estimated that there are currently 3,000 to 5,000 wild tigers, most of which live in isolated protected areas. Tigers are therefore classified as “critically endangered”. In central India, Tadoba National Park is the oldest and largest national park and the most suitable park for tiger watching. Overall, the national parks of Animals in India are much smaller and more visited than the parks in Africa, creating a different safari feeling. Permits are issued on a personal basis and only for certain routes, with the best routes also being the most expensive. Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh in central India, Kanha National Park is one of the most famous parks in India and is home to a high level of animal diversity. The park has a good tiger population and is one of the places with the highest probability of seeing tigers in the wild. Asian Leopard As a very adaptable animal, the Asian leopard is widespread overall, but it is not found in every Asian country. In Asia, it lives in coniferous forests along the Amur River as well as in the tropics in India and Southeast Asia. There are no differences in hunting behavior or physiognomy to the African leopard. A large number of Asian leopards live in the Nagarhole National Park in southern India, and their only enemies are a few tigers. In the state of Rajasthan, a considerable number of leopards live in the Bera Conservation Area. In this relatively isolated area with a large number of small villages, the leopards can be seen on the surrounding rocks that characterize this region. Watching the leopards climbing the rocks is just as fantastic as the photos that result. Snow Leopard The snow leopard lives in the high mountains of Central Asia, it is found in the Himalayas as well as in the Altai and Sayan Mountains in Russia and in the Tibetan highlands as far as the Pamir and Hindu Kush. It is similar to leopards, but has a longer and mostly grey coat, which is particularly thick in winter. The snow leopard is easily distinguishable from other big cat species due to its extremely long tail and relatively short snout. Unlike other big cats, the snow leopard

What is the best time to visit National Park in India?

January The cooler, drier months of December to February are traditionally the best months to travel around National Park in India. Days are pleasantly warm in Delhi with maximum temperatures of around 25°C, while at night the thermometer drops to 10°C. In the major tiger reserves in western and central India, you can expect higher temperatures during the day, although they are still quite pleasant. On morning open jeep safaris, you should always take a fleece or sweater with you as it gets very cold. February Due to the dry and pleasant climate, it is no surprise that February is one of the best months for wildlife National Park viewing in India. India’s national parks are naturally a popular travel destination for Indians and can be downright crowded on Indian public holidays and school holidays. February is a very quiet month in terms of domestic visitor numbers and is therefore highly recommended for a visit to the classic tiger reserves. March The cooler, drier months from December to February are almost perfect for a trip to India. From March onwards, it gets noticeably warmer, but the temperatures are still tolerable and the chances of successfully spotting tigers increase. Tigers are now more likely to seek refreshment and can often be seen near watering holes. Indian festivals and school holidays should definitely be avoided, as then the national parks are literally invaded by convoys of jeeps. During the Holi festival (also in March), many parks close for fear of riots by drunken visitors. You should definitely take this into account and do your research before your visit. April It is hot in India. From April onwards, temperatures rise to sweltering temperatures that can reach well over 40°C. By April, you can no longer live in India without air conditioning and a swimming pool. This month we are not using tented accommodation, but are instead opting for well-enclosed accommodation for the few hardy guests who venture here. However, for those who can tolerate extreme heat, April can be incredibly valuable in terms of tiger viewing. May Incredibly, May is even hotter. The entire country is like a huge, burning frying pan. The central plains are unbearably hot. It is not without reason that the British fled en masse to the mountains during the colonial era to cool off. We do not recommend travelling in May. June In June, the monsoon rains bring much-needed relief to the country in the grip of extreme drought. The rain falls like a storm, all but a few major tiger reserves close and will not reopen until October. However, some parks in South India like Nagarhole, Periyar or Bandipur are open all year round and attract visitors with ridiculously low prices despite the monsoon. July Monsoon rains sweep across the Indian subcontinent. Anyone who has ever visited traditional tiger reserves can take advantage of the monsoon season for some specific activities and regions of India. Traveling through arid Rajasthan, you can be almost certain not to see a trace of rain in the sky. In Himalayan regions like Ladakh, the peak tourist season begins now. The monsoon is not a good time for tigers, but those interested in the reserves of South India, known for their elephants, benefit from very low prices and almost no other visitors. August It is the rainy season in India and the country’s traditional tiger reserves are closed until October. However, some parks in South India like Nagarhole, Periyar or Bandipur are open all year round and, despite the monsoon, attract visitors with very low prices and possible encounters with animals. The arid region of Bera in Rajasthan and the national parks of Gujarat can also be visited without restrictions during the monsoon, as it usually does not rain a drop. It is currently the peak tourist season in Ladakh. In the state of Kerala, you can also benefit from very reduced prices at the best Ayurvedic hotels in the region. September The monsoon is gradually coming to an end. With the decline of the monsoon, the month of September is worth exploring the beautiful green landscapes of the state of Kerala with very reduced rates at the best Ayurvedic lodges in North Kerala. For those who have already ticked tigers off their bucket list, the reserves of South India, known for their elephants, can offer good opportunities October October marks the start of the season and the parks reopen after the monsoon season. Rangers and researchers spend the first few weeks after reopening busily noting any significant changes after the closure period. After all, no one has entered the core zones of the national parks for a period of three months and many things could have happened during that time: Did all the cubs survive? Were there territorial fights? Did a young adult animal leave its mother? Those who enter the national parks in October do so with a queasy feeling in their stomach. The most worrying thing is the fear of finding tigers killed that did not die a natural death. The parks are beautifully green after the rains, the air clear and dust-free, just ideal for photographers. October is the best month for an encounter with the black panther in Nagarhole National Park. It is also an excellent time for the red pandas in Singalila National Park in the north-east of the country. November Pleasant temperatures and relatively few visitors are to be expected. Conditions for tiger sightings are improving. The fur of tigers in tiger reserves such as Ranthambhore or Tadoba is a beautiful, contrasting orange. Beautiful for photo shoots! In November, the Diwali festival takes place and the National parks fill up with local tourists. We recommend that you do not go on a tiger safari until after Diwali has ended in November. December The dry and cooler months from December to February create wonderful travel conditions for heat-shy Europeans in National Parks. The days are pleasantly warm with highs of around 25 °C in Delhi,

The Best Tiger Reserves in India, National Park by Delighted Journey

The Best Tiger Reserves in India: Deforestation, illegal trade, hunting and killing for “fun” – all of this is what the tigers have had to endure. Tigers were almost extinct in India after the demand for their fur and other body parts increased immensely. It was only after 2006, when the population dropped to 1,411 tigers, that the concept of tiger reserves National Park came into being and the animals were protected. As a result of these initiatives, the number of tigers rose again to 1,706 in 2011, 2,226 in 2014 and 2,500 in 2016. Slowly but surely, India regained its reputation as a good country for tiger watching – with 50 tiger reserves there are many options. We would like to introduce you to the best places to see tigers in India: Bandhavgarh National Park the Best Tiger Reserves in India If you have ever been on a safari to see tigers, you already know how difficult it can be to find these animals in their natural habitat. In Bandhavgarh National Park, however, your chances increase many times over, because there are still a lot of tigers in Best Tiger Reserves in India here. The park is located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh and stretches for another 100 square kilometers. At the last count, 63 tigers were recorded. The park was once even known to be home to white tigers, but unfortunately the last one was spotted in 1951.a Things to do: Trek to one of the oldest fortifications, Bandhavgarh Fort, Visit Baghel Museum, Visit Jwalamukhi Temple, Get a taste of village life in Tala Best time to visit: October to June Ranthambore Tiger Reserve This 1,443 sq km national park is a favourite among tiger enthusiasts. This park was once the hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur and its popularity rose when Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip shot a tiger here in the 1960s. The tigers were protected in 1973 and only since then have the tiger numbers recovered. The last census in 2014 confirmed that there are 62 tigers living in the reserve. This park is also one of the most beautiful with its ancient ruins and ponds and is therefore very popular with both historians and nature photographers. Things to do: Spend an evening at Mansarovar Lake, visit the impressive Ranthambore Fort, feel the connection to the divine at the Trinetra Ganesh Temple; pay a visit to the Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History. Best time to visit: October to April. Kanha Tiger Reserve This 2,060 sq km national park is not only one of the largest in the country but also the most protected park. Park rangers reported sightings of 80 adults and 25 cubs. The park is divided into 4 zones – Kisli, Kanha, Mukki and Sarhi and in addition to the Bengal tiger, you can also find Barasinghas, which are only found here. Other sightseeing options: Visit the Kanha Museum Best time to visit: November to May Satpura National Park For the explorers and adventurers below, we would recommend Satpura National Park, which is even wilder and less visited. This is one of the country’s younger national parks, established in 1981. No more than 12 vehicles are allowed into the park at a time, limiting the number of tourists. The park is actually famous for its leopards and sloth bears, but there is also a population of 65 tigers (as of 2014). Other things to see: Visit the massive Pandav Caves, pay your respects at Shri Nagdwar Swami’s Temple, relax at Bee Falls. Best time to visit: October to April. Jim Corbett National Park When you think of tigers in India, most people think of Jim Corbett National Park. Corbett is the most visited national park in the country because of its easy accessibility and long history. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it was renamed in the mid-1950s in honour of a hunter-turned-wildlife conservationist. The Wildlife Institute of India stated in its 2016 report that Corbett is the reserve with the most tigers – a whopping 215 wild cats. Again, however, a sighting depends on your guide and your luck, but the stories of the dense jungle will captivate you Places to visit: Visit the famous Garjiya Devi Temple, Jim Corbett Museum, relax at Corbett Falls. Best time to visit: November to June. Pench National Park Although more visited national parks like Bandhavgarh and Kanha are nearby, Madhya Pradesh’s Pench National Park is still a good place to spot tigers. Fewer tourists and the options to camp in the park make this park so interesting for adventurers and nature lovers alike. According to a count in 2016, 53 tigers are said to live here. Fun Fact: Collarwali, also known as the super mom of the tiger world, lives in Pench National Park. She gave birth to her 7th cub in 2017, which is a high number for wild tigers. Other attractions: Visit the Mahakaleshwar Temple. Best time to visit: February to April. Tadoba National Park This park is located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra and is also called “the jewel of Vidharba”. The park was established as a ‘Project Tiger’ reserve in 1999 and since then there have been many more tigers in this area. 88 tigers were counted in August 2016! This park is also a paradise for bird watchers with more than 200 species such as the serpent eagle, a species of snake eagle, the grey-headed sea eagle and the crested eagle. Other attractions: Visit the famous Mahakali Temple of Chandrapur, spend time at Tadoba Lake. Best time to visit: April to May Sundarban National Park This park is home to the largest mangrove forests in the world and thus a great variety of flora and fauna. The Bengal tiger can also still be found here. About 80 specimens are said to still live here, having adapted to the terrain and learned to swim through the salt water. Other endangered species such

WHAT ARE THE FAUNA AND FLORA IN INDIA, WHICH WILL MARK YOUR TRIP To India?

TRIP To India is known throughout the world for its culture, its cities and its monuments with a thousand and one riches. But, it is also a country, which by its topography and its climate, has an incomparable biodiversity. In half a century, India has gone from 5 parks to almost a hundred national parks, aware of the importance of protecting its fauna and flora. Trip to India is now focused as much on the discovery of its civilization and its traditions as on its lush vegetation and the animal species that populate it. ITS FAUNA The emblematic mammal of India is the tiger, it has even been elected as the national animal. Present alongside it the Asiatic lion and the leopard, it is only in India that we find these 3 species together! But, their survival is threatened: tigers are victims of poaching and see their habitat increasingly reduced. The Asiatic lions occupied the entire Indian territory for a long time, but it is now in the Gujarat region within the Sasan Gir Park that the 400 remaining lions are gathered. The feline species remains, all the same, still very present with many wild cats such as the manul cat, the tiger cat, the golden cat or the marbled cat. The Himalayas are a refuge for the few rare snow leopards or the lynx. The brown bear and the collared bear are well established with many individuals, but you will surely not meet them! Another species of bear is, however, present in a large majority of India, the sloth bear which is essentially insectivorous, frugivorous and greedy for honey! This one would even tend to make us crack with its pretty teddy bear head… In such a trip, we cannot of course forget the Asian elephant, a sacred and venerated species, which is also part of the Indian fauna. You will have the opportunity to approach them if you choose during your trip to India to take a ride on their back. Do not get me wrong, India takes great care of its elephants. You will also be able to feed them and participate in their care. If there is one creature that you will not miss during your trip to India, it is the monkey! The two most common species are the red-bottomed and the long-tailed. Its natural habitat may be the forest, but it is in the city that you will easily come across it. Especially near temples, where the population tends to feed them for free. Be careful, red-rumped vultures are sometimes aggressive, long-tailed vultures are known to be more sociable. Finally, there are thousands of birds here. No fewer than 1,224 species occupy the whole of India! If they are so numerous, it is simply thanks to the incredible diversity in terms of habitat that they find here. The wetlands are ideal for welcoming aquatic migratory birds such as ducks, cranes, geese or even pink flamingos. In the northern jungle, it is the peacock that still lives in the wild. In the mountains of the Himalayas or the Western Ghats, a huge forest bird, the hornbill, has found refuge, recognizable by its beak on which is a sort of highly coveted horn… Vultures are closer to towns and villages, where they easily find carcasses and other victuals. It is also a paradise for green parakeets that can be seen flying in flocks. ITS FLORA If India is a paradise for all animal species, it also has a diverse and varied vegetation. Going on a trip to India and discovering the Indian flora is a magnificent opportunity. Here, the different plants proliferate depending on the climate, humidity and altitude. Teak occupies an important place in the forests, it is also known for its strong marketing in the furniture sector. Bamboo, sal and many types of fig trees are also very present. The most beautiful are the cassias, a flowering tree that looks like mimosas! The coastline is the kingdom of coconut trees. The mountains of the Eastern and Western Ghats are of course the ideal terrain for conifers that like altitude, such as cypresses, Himalayan cedars, pines, chestnut trees, cherry trees and oaks. It is the many Indian rivers that allow for exceptional arborization. The various types of acacia or the khejri, a symbolic and sacred tree for the Bishnoi community, draw water through their roots. The Bishnoi have been an ecological civilization since the 15th century, practicing vegetarianism (no animal flesh, but foods that can come from animals such as milk, eggs, etc.) to be in communion with nature and with the utmost respect for animals and plants. Traveling on Indian lands thus offers the possibility of making excursions and immersions in nature reserves, with nomadic or semi-nomadic populations: example to support a stay in Karnataka, in the Biligiri Rangana Hills reserve, with the Soligas. The forest has always been part of the life of many Indian civilizations, but it has suffered a significant reduction in its surface area in recent years. The cause is the ever-increasing need for agricultural land to feed the population, roads, etc. However, a collective awareness has made it possible to stop this catastrophic deforestation and little by little hundreds of hectares have been able to benefit from reforestation with incredible initiatives such as the 50 million trees planted in 24 hours by 800,000 Indians in Uttar Pradesh. A trip to such an abundant land will be an opportunity to live a magnificent experience! From desert plains to small islands, through the Himalayan mountains and tropical forests, it is a journey rich in emotions that awaits you! Before leaving, do not forget to find out about the recommended vaccinations for a trip to India. TRIP To India is known throughout the world for its culture, its cities and its monuments with a thousand and one riches. But, it is also a country, which by its topography and its climate, has an incomparable biodiversity. In half a century, India has

Best Honeymoon Destinations in India

Exotic honeymoon in India: magic, colors and variety after the wedding. India as a dream destination for your honeymoon – we’ll tell you why you definitely shouldn’t miss this destination after your wedding! India is one of the most magical and mystical places on our planet. Diverse landscapes, wide views, vibrant cities and enchanted villages – here you will find a mixture that will fascinate you all around, especially on your honeymoon. We will give you an insight into this fascinating subcontinent and show you why it’s worth taking a honeymoon to India: The magic of India Geography, people, culture and everyday life – all these elements form the Indian subcontinent, which often attracts travelers to well-known destinations such as Pakistan, Nepal or Bangladesh. The island states of Sri Lanka and the Maldives are just as fascinating. If you take a closer look at the society of these different states, you will discover a variety of traditions, cultures and religions – four of the largest world religions (including Hinduism and Buddhism) are native to the Indian subcontinent. India is one of the largest countries in the world and accordingly has the second highest population – the official national languages ​​are Hindi, but due to the great diversity in the cities and in the countryside, there are over 22 other languages ​​that are not officially recognized but are learned as a native language by an enormous number of speakers. In the middle of the Indian Ocean, India attracts not only with its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, but also with its impressive flora and fauna and multifaceted underwater world, which tourists particularly like to explore. Authenticity and history in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur The northeast of the country is formed by its golden triangle, the cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. These three territories are our first destinations on the list for newlyweds who want to spend their honeymoon in India. Anyone who has already read about Delhi before this post knows that this city can also be a very chaotic place that never calms down due to the high number of residents and crowded streets – because with over 15 million inhabitants, it is guaranteed that there will always be something going on in every district of the city. New Delhi, the capital, is characterized by a strong contrast between tradition and modernity. Religion and faith still play a central role, at the same time the information and technology industry in the center is growing enormously and thus also shapes the everyday life of the local people. For newlyweds, there are exciting sightseeing destinations, a rich historical and artistic heritage and eventful excursions around the clock. Experience Delhi in an elegant and diverse way (Rajpath, Rasina Hill and Vijay Chowk) and visit markets – where the everyday life of the city takes place. The scents, the turbulent traffic and the constant noise show you how lively this city is and every stall at the market takes you into an exciting world of pleasures. You should also not miss the Hindu – Lakshmi Narayan or Kalkaki temples, nor the Jami Masjid mosque. Agra and the Taj Mahal are considered one of the great symbols of the country. This is one of the new seven wonders of the world – so this sight should definitely not be missing from your to-do list. Experience the beauty of the Mughal Empire here, visit fascinating palaces that date back to the Mughal era and marvel at ancient tombs, gates and fountains. The magic of Rajasthan: Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur One of the largest states in India is Rajasthan. Jaipur is considered a source of ancient stories and legends in the northwest and is also known as the Pink City. Here, cultural diversity merges with centuries of history – many details and the beauty of the old buildings create an idyllic setting for an unforgettable honeymoon. Visit the lavishly designed palaces of the Maharajas (such as the City Palace, the Samode or the Hawa Mahal) and the excellently preserved medieval buildings (such as Fort Bernstein). Two other fascinating cities are Udaipur and Jodhpur. Udaipur enjoys an excellent location and is reminiscent of the stories from One Thousand and One Nights. In Jodhpur you can visit magnificent buildings with restored facades and immerse yourself in the magic of India. Fascinating temples and shrines An important element of everyday life in India is religion. As the basis of the diverse cultures in the country, faith has a great influence on the people in the country and their lives in all regions of the subcontinent. In the state of Tamil Nadu, newlyweds can visit breathtaking temples. Kanchipuram is considered one of the seven holy cities of Hinduism and therefore impresses with over a hundred temples that can also be visited by tourists. The Chennai Kapaleeswarar Temple is particularly well-known, with its forty-meter-high tower offering a view of the surrounding landscapes. In Tamil Nadu, don’t miss the fine Minakshi architecture in the Madurai temples, and visit Trichy and Chidambaram, the most important visitor centers for Nataraja. Fascinating Wildlife The state of Madya Pradesh is considered the Heart of India and is characterized by a wild and diverse landscape. The Bengal tiger calls this state its home, as it is home to the largest population of the endangered species. In the subtropical and tropical forests of Madya Pradesh, visitors can see the Bengal tiger in all its beauty. Karnataka and Kerala In the state of Kerala, visit the port city of Cochin, visit the Periyar nature reserve and also visit the Guruvayoor Krishna Temple. In Punnathur Kotta, you can experience the magic of elephants and explore the surrounding canals and lakes on a boat trip. In Karnataka, Mysore is another major attraction for visitors: the Maharaja’s Palace, which will simply take your breath away. Newlyweds are always looking for a special hotel for their honeymoon where they can unwind after the wedding. The Imperial New Delhi impresses with pure luxury, excellent service

Luxury Travel in North India with Oberoi Hotels

Our amazing ‘Luxury Travel in North India with Oberoi Hotels’ will appeal to all your senses with stunning architecture, rich culture and kaleidoscopic colors. With the opulent Oberoi hotels as your base and the India specialist as your travel provider, you have chosen an ‘award-winning combination’. Readers of America’s ‘Travel + Leisure Magazine’ voted the Oberoi ‘Best in the World’ last year!! and when you look at these hotel properties, you will quickly know why. Contact us for your luxury tour to India and our travel expert will be in touch shortly. Enjoy the view of the Taj Mahal from your private balcony at the Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra. Soak up the romantic and feudal ambience of Rajasthan at the Oberoi Rajvilas in Jaipur or choose the Oberoi Vanyavilas in Ranthambore National Park to combine nature and luxury. The Oberoi Vanyavilas boasts tented accommodation that can no longer be described as such. Pure luxury awaits you in your tent! It is a great atmosphere in beautiful surroundings with perfect service. Luxury Travel in North India with Oberoi Hotels DAY 01 : ARRIVAL IN DELHI (OVERNIGHT AT THE OBEROI, DELHI) Our “Luxury Travel in North India with Oberoi Hotels” starts in the capital Delhi, where you will be met by one of our representatives at the airport and our chauffeur will drive you to the Oberoi, New Delhi. You can use the rest of the day to relax and recover from the flight. The Oberoi New Delhi is perfect for those who want excellent service and all the amenities in a hotel. The Oberoi is one of the best hotels in the capital and it has been reopened after a 2-year renovation phase with the latest air conditioning technology and well-appointed rooms. For those of you who want to feel the history and colonial architecture, we can recommend the Imperial and if you like Indian glamour, you can also choose the Leela Palace. Another alternative would be the Lodhi, which offers contemporary Aman-style Luxury Travel in North India. With our specially curated trips, every fine detail is tailored to you: from the destinations to the experiences to the hotels. DAY 02 : IN DELHI Discover the best that Delhi has to offer with a guided tour of Old and New Delhi. The first half of the tour will take you through the narrow streets and small bazaars of bustling Old Delhi. The second half might include a visit to an interesting Sikh temple and a trip to Humayun’s Tomb – a monument from the Mughal era that is said to have inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. We can also recommend Qutab Minar, the victory pillar of Islam with its beautiful park or the bustling India Gate; two of Delhi’s most important sights. There is a lot to see and here too you are flexible and can decide to visit a different sight at short notice. Just discuss it with your guide. We recommend dining at the Oberoi Hotel that evening, but we can also recommend a number of other tried and tested restaurants. Our favorites are Indian Accent and Bukhara. DAY 03: DELHI TO AGRA (OVERNIGHT AT THE OBEROI AMARVILAS, AGRA) The next stop on your luxury trip through India is Agra: this is where the world-famous Taj Mahal and the luxurious Oberoi Amar Vilas hotel are located. After you’ve had the chance to eat lunch and refresh yourself, you can meet your guide to explore the Agra Fort with him. Then you’ll head to the Taj Mahal in the most beautiful evening light, where the illuminated Taj is very easy to photograph. One night in Agra is usually enough, but if you want, you can also go to the Taj Mahal again at sunrise and possibly spend 2 nights in Agra if your schedule allows. When you return to the hotel in the evening, you can take a wonderful view of the mostly illuminated Taj Mahal from the Premier Rooms. With no visiting hours, the Taj Mahal in the moonlight is yours alone. Also ask about the Premier Rooms with balcony – where you can admire the Taj Mahal from your private terrace with a good drink in your hand. DAY 04 : AGRA TO RANTHAMBHORE (OVERNIGHT AT OBEROI VANYAVILAS, RANTHAMBHORE) This morning we will drive you to Bharatpur to take the train to Ranthambhore. Visit the deserted town of Fatehpur Sikri on the way. On arrival in Ranthambhore our representative will meet you at the platform and drive you to the Oberoi Vanyavilas for 2 nights in a luxurious tent. The opulence of the Oberoi Vanyavilas offers the perfect contrast to the wild Ranthambhore National Park. Each luxury tent is made of the finest textiles with traditional Rajasthani prints. The beautiful freestanding claw-footed bathtub has a particularly glamorous touch. DAY 05 : IN RANTHAMBHORE Bring the Jungle Book to life in this Indian jungle on a private jeep safari (it is recommended to do both the morning and evening safaris). Perhaps the most famous resident of Ranthambhore National Park is the beautiful Bengal tiger and seeing one in the wild is a true experience. Even if you are unlucky, this park will impress you with colorful birds, animals and plants. There are peacocks, monkeys, deer and crocodiles. Between safaris, we recommend climbing the 10th century Ranthambhore Fort, which stretches majestically on the edge of the forest. DAY 06 : RANTHAMBHORE TO JAIPUR (OVERNIGHT AT OBEROI RAJVILAS, JAIPUR) This morning, enjoy your luxurious accommodation at Oberoi Vanyavilas. Afterwards, we will drive you to the pink city of Jaipur in the heart of Rajasthan for a relaxing 3-night stay at the Oberoi Rajvilas. One of the most spectacular hotels in the world awaits you! Which hotel can claim to welcome guests with a painted elephant that showers you with fragrant rose petals? The Oberoi Rajvilas can only be spectacular! The resort itself is already a destination with fountains, arcades and a 250-year-old Hindu temple. Ideal for guests who

Trekking in the Indian Himalayas: India and its Mountains

Are you dreaming of a trip to the Indian Himalayas? A trip offers the opportunity to experience the mountains in very different facets. Most people associate the mighty peaks in the Indian Himalayas with Tibet, Nepal or the small mountain state of Bhutan. Around 70 percent of the most impressive mountains are in India. In our blog we introduce you to some places where you can experience the Himalayan adventure in India. The “Little Tibet”: Ladakh The former kingdom of Ladakh lies in the northernmost state of India. In the midst of rugged, sparsely vegetated mountain landscapes, you will find a culture here that has many connections to Tibet. Whitewashed Buddhist monasteries sit on rocky peaks, prayer flags flutter in the mountain wind. One of the most important monasteries is Hemis, whose history stretches back almost a thousand years. The Hemis Festival takes place here every summer, during which the victory of good over evil is celebrated for two days in colorful traditional costumes. From the old royal city of Leh, you can explore the Indian Himalayas on hikes or short tours. For example, you can reach the Nubra Valley, a fascinating place of contrasts, via one of the highest drivable mountain passes in the world. The valley is actually an alpine cold desert, but the inhabitants cultivate a variety of plants thanks to the Shyok river that flows through it. Elsewhere in the valley, there are sand dunes that you can cross on the back of Bactrian camels. Darjeeling and Sikkim in Indian Himalayas Sikkim also has a strong Tibetan influence – not least due to its geographical location. The state in northeast India is sandwiched between Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet. Like Ladakh, it was once a Buddhist kingdom and is still home to many magnificent monasteries and stupas. For most travelers, the gateway to this region is Darjeeling, an important center of tea cultivation, which itself is not yet part of Sikkim. Against the backdrop of the Indian Himalayas, magnificent green tea fields stretch out here, which are best seen on a ride on a wonderfully nostalgic steam train. Sikkim is much greener than rugged Ladakh. Rhododendrons, orchids and magnolias grow here, among other things. The animal world is as diverse as the landscape. Various big cats, Tibetan wolves and red pandas live in the forests of Sikkim. Further north of Sikkim, on the border with Nepal, lies Kangchenjunga, India’s highest mountain at 8,586 meters – and the third highest peak in the world. Source of Ganges The Himalayan regions of India are not only wonderful for being active on hikes, but also for relaxation at its finest. Complete peace and quiet in front of a magnificent backdrop can be found in the 360° Leti resort, which is secluded at a height of over 2,400 meters in the middle of the untouched mountains of Kumaon. From the only four pavilions, guests can enjoy a wonderful panorama even in bed thanks to the large windows. Meditation, yoga, walks and evenings by the campfire – always surrounded by majestic peaks – make the stress of everyday life seem a long way away. Anyone who checks into the Ananda in the Indian Himalayas follows in the footsteps of Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Kate Winslet and Prince Charles. The luxurious retreat – formerly a Maharaja’s palace – is located just above Rishikesh, where the holy Ganges leaves the Indian Himalayas. You can relax like royalty here with yoga, meditation, Ayurveda treatments and spa treatments. In our travel blog about India’s Himalayas we have only presented a small selection – there are many more treasures to explore. How about a multi-day trekking Himalaya trip in Ladakh? Contact our experts, they will be happy to advise you. Are you dreaming of a trip to the Indian Himalayas? A trip offers the opportunity to experience the mountains in very different facets. Most people associate the mighty peaks in the Indian Himalayas with Tibet, Nepal or the small mountain state of Bhutan. Around 70 percent of the most impressive mountains are in India. In our blog we introduce you to some places where you can experience the Himalayan adventure in India. The “Little Tibet”: Ladakh The former kingdom of Ladakh lies in the northernmost state of India. In the midst of rugged, sparsely vegetated mountain landscapes, you will find a culture here that has many connections to Tibet. Whitewashed Buddhist monasteries sit on rocky peaks, prayer flags flutter in the mountain wind. One of the most important monasteries is Hemis, whose history stretches back almost a thousand years. The Hemis Festival takes place here every summer, during which the victory of good over evil is celebrated for two days in colorful traditional costumes. From the old royal city of Leh, you can explore the Indian Himalayas on hikes or short tours. For example, you can reach the Nubra Valley, a fascinating place of contrasts, via one of the highest drivable mountain passes in the world. The valley is actually an alpine cold desert, but the inhabitants cultivate a variety of plants thanks to the Shyok river that flows through it. Elsewhere in the valley, there are sand dunes that you can cross on the back of Bactrian camels. Darjeeling and Sikkim in Indian Himalayas Sikkim also has a strong Tibetan influence – not least due to its geographical location. The state in northeast India is sandwiched between Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet. Like Ladakh, it was once a Buddhist kingdom and is still home to many magnificent monasteries and stupas. For most travelers, the gateway to this region is Darjeeling, an important center of tea cultivation, which itself is not yet part of Sikkim. Against the backdrop of the Indian Himalayas, magnificent green tea fields stretch out here, which are best seen on a ride on a wonderfully nostalgic steam train. Sikkim is much greener than rugged Ladakh. Rhododendrons, orchids and magnolias grow here, among other things. The animal world is as diverse as the landscape.