Culture and Wildlife in Central India

Venture to the waterfront and witness the historic Gateway of India, built during the British rule. Drive by the world’s most expensive real estate along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace, as the streetlights resemble a string of pearls at night. Discover the plethora of colonial architecture including the High Court, Mumbai University, Flora Fountain, Asiatic Library, Prince of Wales Museum, Municipal Corporation Building and the fascinating, fully-functioning Victoria Terminus Railway Station. Whilst the building is closed to the public, you can glimpse the Parsi Tower of Silence with its circling vultures. Unwind amidst the topiary of the Hanging Gardens, or in Kamala Nehru Park and Horniman Circle. Learn more about Mahatma Gandhi at Mani Bhavan, a museum and reference library. (Duration 4 hours).

Venture to the extraordinary Elephanta Caves, a complex of ancient rock-cut cave temples that sit proudly on Elephanta Island, which is an hour’s ferry ride from Mumbai. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these intricately carved caves date back to 600AD, although there is little history explaining the island. Some locals believe the caves are a natural testament to the Hindu faith. Explore the tranquil and picturesque island, teeming with green foliage and scampering monkey, before visiting the caves. There is much to witness, from the great Trimurti Sadashiva (or Maheshmurti) a cave that depicts the three faces of Shiva, to a hall with 20 pillars, and an enshrined Shivalingam (a phallic symbol of fertility). Kindly note that Elephanta Caves are closed on Mondays. (Duration 4 hours).

(Only if staying at Ahilya Fort) Located in the temple town of Maheshwar, where time seems to have stood still, Ahilya Fort is a riverside heritage hotel..clinging to the fort complex ramparts..overlooking the Ghats and igneous temples, and mirrored in the winding Narmada river below it. Take a sightseeing trip around the town..visit the Rehwa Society handloom center to see how they weave Maheshwari saris; visit the Ahilya School, several Shiva Temples and local Markets; delight in some trail biking; visit Navdatodi Village and a farm. Sip tea while enjoying a day time boat ride on the Narmada River; alternatively, delight in an evening of sunset boating while relaxing over tea.

Embark on a spiritual journey to the famous pilgrimage site of Omkareshwar, nestled at the confluence of Narmada and Kaveri rivers in Central India. Enjoy the picturesque location with hills, serene river banks, and a cliff face. Cross over to the scenic Mandhata island through one of the two bridges or by boat. Explore the hilly island steeped in legends, and shaped like the Hindu ‘Om’ symbol, which heightens its importance for believers. One among twelve such temples in the country, visit the revered five-storied Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Shiv temple built in Hindu architectural style with an elaborate spire. See the grand meeting hall supported by 60 intricately carved pillars. Watch pilgrims at prayer ceremonies and rituals that are conducted through the day. Also drop by the beautifully carved Siddhanatha Temple nearby, as well as the Omkareshwar Palace nearby. Walk on the circular pathway around the hill dotted with several shrines, occasionally distracted by playful monkeys! (Full Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)

Bhopal combines scenic beauty, history and modernity. It offers many natural as well as artificial lakes and is one of India’s greenest cities. Visit Asia’s largest masjid (mosque) – the Jama Masjid, as well as the Moti Masjid and Taj-Ul-Masjid. Witness the Birla Mandir, a Hindu temple built by the Birla dynasty in devotion to Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth. Marvel at the white alabaster Shaukat Mahal and brick-red Sadar Manzil, two architectural wonders with Indo-Islamic and European influence, which were both allegedly designed by a French architect, and are situated within lovely gardens. Visit the Performing Arts and Tribal Habitat, also known as the Museum of Mankind. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy)

Discover the natural beauty of Satpura National Park, nestled in India’s Central Highlands. Accompanied by experienced naturalists, head out into the rugged wilderness characterized by sandstone peaks and ravines, amid dense forests. Apart from traditional 4×4 jeep safaris, you can hop into a boat and cruise the waters, or explore the region on foot at your own pace. Discover a variety of wildlife including antelopes, leopards, porcupines, black bucks, wild boars, foxes and sloth bears among others, emerge from behind lush cover. You’ll also find several species of birds under the forest canopy. Tigers often lie camouflaged between tall grasses and if you’re lucky, you may just spot one!. (Best time to travel: October – March; Time of Day: Morning ; Duration: 3 hrs; Fixed time: Yes; Private Activity; Fitness level: Easy)

Wild wonders galore! In the morning, take a thrilling wildlife safari in an open jeep with your experienced tracker and guide, and fellow guests, at Pench Tiger Reserve. Across a gently sloping, undulating land marred with sheltered valleys, Pench boasts the highest density of herbivores in India! Experience the thrill of tracking a Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat, listening to the sounds of the forest and following tracks and signs left behind by these majestic beasts. The topography changes as you travel through the reserve, and you’ll see many birds and animals through the shrubbery – from the bison, Sambar deer, Nilgai, wild boars and jackal, to hyenas and porcupines. If you’re lucky, you’ll come face to face with a tiger – a highlight that will remain etched forever in your memory! (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning, 0600 hrs; Duration: 3.5 hrs; Fixed time: Yes; Shared Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that the park is open between 15 October and 30 June every year.Please note that each jeep will accommodate 6 people in total)