Wildlife of Central India

Originally planned for February 2021 this trip finally took place two years later, notably because of the pandemic and other issues. But it was well worth the wait, not just because it delivered on the promised wildlife but because it was meticulously planned and almost seamlessly delivered from beginning to end. The accommodation was carefully chosen for our comfort while keeping the feel of a laid back adventure. The food was an excellent introduction to Indian cooking at its best and our travel from one reserve to another – four in all – was achieved with the minimum of fuss and bother. The fact that the Saurabh Agrawal of Chinkara Journeys travelled with us to trouble-shoot if necessary and to call our attention to attractions on the way was bonus which I think everyone in the group (we were nine) greatly appreciated. I must also say a personal thank you to Saurabh, not just for finding innovative ways for me to climb in and out of jeeps given a knee injury, but also for putting a great deal of effort into re-uniting me with some belongings I left behind at our first stop. As we were travelling light I was delighted to see them again!! Tigers have been on my bucket list for many years and I was thrilled to see ten of them, including three (almost adult) cubs, at very close proximity. Thanks to Saurabh’s knowledge and enthusiasm, and that of the guides and drivers, we were also able to see many of the other animals to be found in this part of India, including leopards, jackals and their pups, a lone wolf, deer, wild boar and even a herd of wild elephants. Many thanks to Chinkara Journeys (and to my fellow travelers) for a memorable trip – and for the new tick on my bucket list.

I highly recommend Central India Wildlife tour by Chinkara Journeys. We had a fantastic trip to Banhavgarh, Kanha, Pench and Satpura tiger reserves. My aim was to see, experience and photograph the wildlife of this amazing region. We were focussing on tigers and got generously rewarded. The highlight was undoubtedly the multiple tiger sightings, the excitement of seeing wild elephants, a leopard snoozing on a rock, encountering a jackal family where the little ones were hanging off mum for a feed to the astounding array of birds – to many to mention but all wonderful memories. Saurabh Agrawal of Chinkara Journeys made this fantastic small group trip possible. He was extremely helpful, understanding, patient and is an excellent and very knowledgeable guide/photographer. He taught us so much about the area and wildlife and India. Simply outstanding. A big thank you to Saurabh for a fabulous trip! A trip to remember!

So many memorable moments, starting with a close-up view of a tiger waking up slowly and ambling away on our first safari. We were lucky enough to experience several further tiger sightings, including some when our vehicle was on its own. Each park we visited was different and I especially enjoyed seeing all kinds of different mammals, birds and trees and some spectacular vistas and sunsets. Other highlights on this itinerary were options to do a few guided walks and night drives. The accommodation and food at all the lodges was excellent. I would recommend taking lots of small denomination rupees for tips and choosing indian dishes over any western choices. The personal attention to detail for each person in the group was exceptional and I would highly recommend this tour operator.