WHY TRAVEL WITH US
nature & wildlife
India's Big Five
A Wild Odyssey from Gir to Kaziranga
Best Time: Mid October to May
Duration: 19days/ 18 nights
Discover the raw, untamed soul of India on this immersive 20-day journey into the habitats of the country’s most iconic wildlife. Tailored for nature lovers and conservation-minded travellers, this itinerary takes you through five distinct ecosystems in search of “India’s Big Five”, the regal Asiatic lion, elusive Bengal tiger, stealthy leopard, prehistoric one-horned rhinoceros, and the mighty Asian elephant. Along the way, you’ll stay in handpicked wilderness lodges, enjoy exclusive safaris with naturalists, and witness the stunning contrast between Gujarat’s dry teak forests, Rajasthan’s rocky plateaus, and Assam’s lush riverine grasslands. From Mumbai’s coastal pulse to Delhi’s timeless charm, this is a wildlife odyssey unlike any other.
Mumbai - Gir - Jawai- Ranthambore - Kaziranga - Delhi
Detailed Programme
Day 1: Arrival in Mumbai
Arrive in the vibrant metropolis of Mumbai, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you might enjoy a relaxed walk through the colonial-era Colaba district or simply unwind in preparation for your journey into the wild. Overnight at a comfortable hotel in Mumbai.
Day 2: Mumbai to Rajkot (Flight) – Drive to Gir National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Rajkot in Gujarat. Upon arrival, embark on a 3.5-hour scenic drive through rural landscapes to Gir National Park — the only remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion. Settle into your lodge set on the park’s edge and enjoy an evening briefing from your naturalist guide. Overnight at a wildlife lodge in Gir.
Day 3–4: Safari Adventures in Gir National Park
Over the next two days, venture into Gir’s rugged teak forests and dry scrub on morning and afternoon jeep safaris. This is your chance to see the rare Asiatic lion in its natural habitat, along with other species like Indian leopards, striped hyenas, crocodiles, and over 300 species of birds. The park’s undulating hills, seasonal rivers, and remote forest roads offer a rich setting for unforgettable sightings. In between safaris, enjoy talks from naturalists or explore nearby tribal villages. Two overnights at your Gir lodge.
Day 5: Gir to Jawai via Rajkot and Udaipur (Flight + Drive)
After an early breakfast, drive back to Rajkot for your flight to Udaipur, with a layover en route. Upon arrival in Udaipur, you’ll be met and transferred on a three-hour drive through the dramatic Rajasthani countryside to the Jawai region — known for its remarkable leopard population. Arrive at your luxury wilderness camp nestled amid granite hills. Overnight at a boutique lodge in Jawai.
Day 6–7: Tracking Leopards in Jawai Hills
Spend the next two days exploring the rocky terrain of Jawai, where leopards coexist remarkably with the local Rabari herders. Unlike dense forests, Jawai’s open landscape offers frequent and intimate leopard sightings. Your expert trackers will take you out at dawn and dusk, using traditional knowledge and patience to locate these elusive cats. Between safaris, enjoy village visits, birding excursions, or simply relax at your stunning retreat. Two nights at your Jawai lodge.
Day 8: Jawai to Ranthambore via Udaipur and Jaipur (Flight + Drive)
Today is a travel day as you make your way to one of India’s most famous tiger reserves. After breakfast, drive to Udaipur airport for your flight to Jaipur. From Jaipur, a private transfer will take you to Ranthambore National Park, approximately 3.5 hours away. Arrive at your forest lodge by evening. Overnight in Ranthambore.
Day 9–11: Tiger Territory – Ranthambore National Park
Immerse yourself in the magical world of Ranthambore over three days of safari. This park, set against a backdrop of ancient forts and lakes, is one of India’s premier destinations for tiger sightings. Each day, you’ll head out at sunrise and again in the late afternoon, tracking tigers and observing other wildlife such as sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, and myriad birdlife. There’s also time to visit the historic Ranthambore Fort or take part in conservation discussions with your naturalists. Three overnights at a Ranthambore jungle lodge.
Day 12: Ranthambore to Jaipur – Flight to Delhi
After a final morning at leisure or optional nature walk, you’ll drive back to Jaipur and catch a short flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to a comfortable hotel near the airport for an overnight stay. This is a great time to catch your breath before heading to Assam in the northeast.
Day 13: Delhi to Jorhat or Guwahati (Flight) – Drive to Kaziranga
Fly east to Jorhat or Guwahati in Assam, where a driver will meet you for the onward journey to Kaziranga National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the world’s largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros. After the 2.5–4-hour drive, arrive at your riverfront eco-lodge in time for a relaxed evening. Overnight at a Kaziranga lodge.
Day 14–16: Rhinos, Elephants & Grassland Wildlife in Kaziranga
Over the next three days, explore the Central, Western, and Eastern ranges of Kaziranga, each offering distinct ecosystems. Spot rhinos grazing in tall elephant grass, elephants roaming in herds, wild water buffaloes wallowing in mud, and a wide array of birds including storks, eagles, and kingfishers. With luck, you might even catch a glimpse of a tiger moving through the reeds. Safaris are conducted twice daily in open 4x4s with naturalist guides. Between drives, visit nearby tea plantations or Mishing tribal communities. Three nights at your Kaziranga lodge.
Day 17: Kaziranga to Jorhat or Guwahati – Fly to Delhi
Bid farewell to the wilds of Assam as you drive back to the airport for your flight to Delhi. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to a hotel in the capital. Enjoy the evening at leisure or sample some of Delhi’s rich culinary traditions. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 18: Exploring Delhi or Leisure Day
Today is open for you to explore Delhi at your own pace. You might opt for a guided heritage walk through Old Delhi’s bazaars, a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, or a visit to India Gate and Humayun’s Tomb. Alternatively, simply relax and reflect on your epic wildlife adventure. A farewell dinner can be arranged to celebrate the journey. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 19: Departure from Delhi
Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to the international airport for your onward journey or return flight home — carrying unforgettable memories of India’s Big Five and the landscapes they call home.
