Quills & Claws offers tours through the great Indian outdoors with historical interludes offering scintillating glimpses of medieval India. This outing takes us from the mixed deciduous forests of Rajasthan to Agra - the historic city of the Mughals; then, through the Lesser Himalayas down to sub-Himalayan tiger country to finally conclude in Delhi - the heart of modern India!

Duration : 13 days ex Delhi

AREA: Bharatpur, Agra, Jeolikote, Ranikhet & Corbett National Park
Operational : mid-November to mid-June
Best Time : mid-November to March
Focus : Birds of Lesser Himalayas & Himalayan foothill

Detailed Programme:
Day 01 Arrive Delhi
Tour begins. Arrive New Delhi and transfer to hotel. Morning is free.
The city of Delhi is the capital and political heart of India. Divided into 'Old' and 'New' Delhi, this city has risen seven times from its ashes, to become the third-largest metropolis in the country. Old Delhi, established and governed by the Muslims, from the 12th to the 19th century AD, bustles in shadow of the imposing Lal Quila (Red Fort). New Delhi, the official Capital, built by the British in the early 20th century, represents the modern face of the young, democratic state of India.

In the afternoon, half day sightseeing tour of Lal Quila (Red Fort) and Jama Masjid.
Built at the peak of Mughal Empire, construction of the Lal Quila (Quila-e-Maulla or Auspicious Fort) was begun by Emperor Shahjahan in 1638 AD and took 10 years to complete. The eastern limits of the Fort then stretched to the banks of the river Yamuna, which has since shifted course. Envoys from the Occident, who graced Shahjahan's court, called it a creation with few rivals in the world.

The royal mosque of Jama Masjid, also built by Shahjahan, is the largest mosque in the country. This red sandstone and white marble structure was completed between 1644 and 1658 AD, and has three gateways, four angle towers and two minarets standing 40 metres high.Overnight at the hotel.

Day 02 Delhi - Bharatpur 176 km 4-5 hours
Board morning train to Bharatpur and arrive by lunchtime. Transfer to hotel. Founded by the Jat ruler, Suraj Mal, in the 18th century, Bharatpur is the gateway to Rajasthan from the plains of Ganga. There are several interesting sights in and around Bharatpur.

Once the hunting preserve of the Bharatpur potentates, the exceptional ecosystem known as Keoladeo National Park is now one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the country, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Spread over only 29 km2, the shallow lakes and woodlands that constitute the park area, shelter over 350 species of avifauna, particularly during winter when the numbers multiply as a result of migratory birds. Pintails, teals, mallards, pochards, geese, storks, curlews and sandpipers can be seen in the lake, while the woodland and pastures are alive with the gambolling of bulbuls, babblers, sunbirds, sparrows, parakeets and orioles. However the rarest bird, which visits Keoladeo National Park (or simply Ghana, meaning dense) from faraway Siberia is the highly endangered Siberian Crane (Grus leucogeranus); efforts are being made to protect this rare bird from extinction.
Overnight at the hotel.

Day 03 Bharatpur - Deeg 32 km 1 hour Early in the morning visit to Keoladeo. Unlike several other National Parks where movement is strictly restricted (with good reason) Ghana lets us have the pleasure of exploration in different ways - on bicycles, on foot and even in boats. A boat-ride shortly after dawn makes a delightful prelude to a day spent in search of birds. We return to our hotel for breakfast; after lunch depart for our next destination.

Charming Deeg, with its captivating forts and palaces and beautiful gardens with fountains laid out in Mughal style, was previously the summer retreat of Bharatpur Maharajahs. The royal palaces are regarded as second only to the Taj Mahal in perfection of workmanship and are a sight to behold.

We return to Bharatpur for the next session of bird hunting (with our cameras and binoculars of course!). Overnight at the hotel.

Day 04 Bharatpur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra 55 km 1½ hours
We rise early for further exploration of the Park and after breakfast depart for Fatehpur Sikri. Between 1570 and 1586, during Akbar's rule, Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of Mughal Empire. 40 km west of Agra, it's a perfectly preserved example of a Mughal city at the height of the Empire's splendour. Legend has that when the Great Mughal, Akbar, was unable to sire a successor to his throne he made a pilgrimage to see the famous saint Shaikh Salim Chishti who lived near where the city was raised, to seek his blessings. The Saint prophesied the birth of a son, and in gratitude Akbar named the newborn Salim, who became the future Emperor Jahangir. The tomb of this very famous Sufi saint stands at one edge of the historic town.

From Fatehpur Sikri we continue onwards to Agra. Lunch on arrival, followed by visits to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna lies Agra, one of the greatest historical cities in the world and the seat of the Mughal Empire in the 16th and 17th centuries. The arrival of Mughal chieftain Babur in 1526, from Samarquand in central Asia, opened one of the most glorious chapters in Indian history. Babur founded the imperial dynasty, which reached its zenith under the Great Mughal, Akbar (1542-1605). The Mughal sovereigns were great builders: the grand Agra Fort; the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri and Akbar's mausoleum at Sikandara bear testimony to their love for art and architecture. However, Akbar's grandson, Shahjahan (1592-1666), created the most famous monument of all. Experts from France, Italy and Persia, and a work force of 20,000 labourers toiled for 22 years (1631-1653) to create a rhapsody in white marble, known the world over as the Taj Mahal, and described as the most extravagant monument ever built to commemorate love. Empress Mumtaz Mahal's death in 1629 left Shahjahan heartbroken; in memory of his beloved Queen he began construction of a building which according to him was to be the most magnificent structure ever built. In 1631 construction of the tomb began, which took 22 years to complete and its glory has fulfilled the wishes of the Mughal Shahenshah (emperor).

Standing stoically on the banks of river Yamuna the Agra Fort is a monumental reminder of the glory of Mughal dynasty. Emperor Akbar began construction of the massive Fort in 1565 and additions were made to the complex until the time of his grandson, Shahjahan. There are many interesting buildings within the impregnable walls, which stretch for 2½km, circumscribed by a moat over 10 metres wide. Board overnight train for Lal Kuan. Overnight on train.

Day 05 Lal Kuan - Jeolikote 35 km, 1-2 hours
Arrive early morning at Lal Kuan and board waiting vehicle/s for onward drive to Jeolikote. Arrive in Jeolikote and check in to The Cottage.

JOELIKOT, THE COTTAGES : This peaceful little cottage is hidden away in the hills, at an altitude of 4800 fr, midway between Haldwani and Nainital. The profusion of wood used on the interiors comprises parquet floors together with ancient, carved wooden doors and window frames that were salvaged from the villages who had discarded them in favour of things more modern. Combined with painted, rough stone walls, dhurries scattered around, low mattresses for relaxing on, cane and wood furniture, the 5 bedrooms at the cottage have a very rustic, homely air. A simple but unque place where you really can get away from it all. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, and an 8 acre orchard, it is the perfect place for switching off and walking in the hills or for visiting nearby lakes at Nainital, Bhimtal and Sattaal. Access as above but a shorter journey from Kathgodam.

Day 06 Jeolikote & around (Sattal)
A day for exploring the countryside. Apart from exploring the surrounding area we shall also visit Sattal, one of the popular destinations in the area, and a small village Bhagtura, both areas offering excellent birding opportunities.

Bhagtura is a small hamlet, en route the well-known Himalayan lake, Sattal. Unlike the other areas of tourist interest this little unobtrusive village located at the edge of a small valley offers solitude hard to find in the bustle of larger towns. During summer time afternoons are a bit warm but the breeze retains its coolness and the evenings are pleasant.

The hills surrounding the Lake and the village areas have forests of oak, horse chestnut; ash; chir pine, besides several other species of plants and trees which include, raspberry, wild rose, lantana and ringal (a bamboo type shrub); one can also find rhododendron and orchids in the area.

There are fruit gardens in the region where mango, guava, pear, plum, peach, apricot, hill plantain and grape are grown, making life "juicier" for all residents as well visitors. Apple orchards abound in the region close to Bhowali, in Ramgarh, and Mukteshwar.

With such lush vegetation, the animal world is equally prolific and Porcupine, Wild Boar, Barking Deer, Ghooral, the Leopard, Jackal, Himalayan Pine Marten, Russet-spotted Cat etc. are found in the surrounding jungles.

The region is a birdwatcher's heaven and migratory birds visit the district during the summer season and add to the avian variety of the area. Insect life is equally amazing and myriad types of moths, butterflies and luminous insects add to your viewing pleasure.
Lunch or High Tea at Green Glen Cottage before returning to Jeolikote.

Day 07 Jeolikote - Ranikhet 75 km 3 hours
After breakfast set out for Ranikhet. On arrival check in to Holm Farm Heritage. A 10 km drive from Ranikhet town, through forests of pine, chestnut and cedar, Holm Farm Heritage lies sprawled in a 13-acre orchard, with magnificent views of the Greater Himalayan ranges. The Bungalow was built by Englishman Norman Troupe in 1869; the dining room has an antique piano, colonial furniture, a fireplace and 125-year old hand painted wallpaper, while the suites have pinewood floors and ceilings and are provided with all the deluxe facilities to meet the visitor's needs.

Day 08 Ranikhet & around
A health resort and a popular holiday destination, Ranikhet (1829m) is a cantonment town of immense charm; this sylvan retreat offers an interesting mix of hill and military cultures

According to legend, a queen, in the course of her journey, came by this spot and was so enchanted by it that she settled down here. Ranikhet literally means "Queen's Field" and the Rani (queen) who's pet excursion ground this khet (field) was none other than Padmini, the queen of the Katyuri Raja, Sudhardev (1180 AD). During the days of the Raj, Ranikhet was a British cantonment; now, it is regimental centre of the Kumaon Regiment, one of the finest regiments of the Indian army.

There is much to see in and around Ranikhet, as there are a number of places of tourist interest here. Ranikhet has forests of oak and pine, and is a fine place to enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas, from the Bhagirathi peak in the west to Nanda Kot in the east. It is an ideal holiday spot for nature lovers.

Day 09 Ranikhet - Mohan / Corbett Tiger Reserve
Mohan is situated on a fork where roads from Kumaon, Garhwal and Dhangarhi meet. Only 2 km from Mohan lies Camp Forktail Creek.

Camp Forktail Creek lies in a true jungle setting about 25 kilometres from Ramnagar and accessible only on foot from the main road which passes through dense sal (Shorea robusta) forest. It is located in one corner of an abandoned grassland and is surrounded by thick deciduous forest with a wide view of the Shivalik hills. The Camp has 12 safari styled tents with attached semi-tiled toilets with running cold water; hot water is supplied in the mornings and evenings in buckets. The tents are raised on wooded platforms with a private sundeck to each one. Being a forest camp use of electricity is spurned; instead, lanterns and oil lamps are used for illumination.

Corbett National Park (400-1210m) is the first National Park of India. Established in 1936, the park got its name from the famous hunter-turned-conservationist - Jim Corbett. Known for its vast variety of flora and fauna the park boasts of 50 species of mammals, 600 species of birds, 25 species of reptiles, 110 species of trees, 50 species of shrubs and more than 70 species of grasses and bamboo. Total area of the National Park is 520 km2 and it is part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve, with a total area of 1318 km2.

Main animals found in the park are the Tiger, Leopard, Jungle Cat, Leopard Cat, the Indian Elephant, Sambar, Cheetal or Spotted Deer, Kakar or Barking Deer, Para or Hog Deer, Jackal, Otter, and two varieties of crocodiles - the Mugger and the Gharial.

Corbett is a virtual bird paradise. Out of the total 1300 bird species found in the Indian subcontinent, more than 600 species have been recorded in and around Corbett Tiger Reserve. Main bird attractions on an endless checklist are Osprey, Pallas' Fish Eagle, Cinereous Vulture, Peregrine Falcon, Yellownape Woodpecker, Scarlet Minivet, Ibisbill, Black-necked Stork, Fantail Flycatcher, Rufous-bellied Niltava, White-crested Laughing Thrush and White-capped Bunting.

Day 10 Camp Forktail Creek / Corbett Tiger Reserve
A full day of activities: early morning leave camp for a long nature hike into the surrounding forest with packed breakfast. The hike takes one through some excellent tracts of mixed deciduous forest and fern laden streams. We shall also visit the nearby village to observe the local lifestyles of the area; an educational trip to the village school, a local home, the farms and cultivation around the village. The outing gives the urban dweller an insight into the living conditions of the people, their methods of farming and cultivation, their lifestyles, and gives the opportunity to interact with the local folks. Return to camp. Bonfire and dinner at the camp.

Day 11 Camp Forktail Creek - Dhikuli 18 km 30-40 min
After an early morning search for birds, followed by breakfast, we set out for Dhikuli, stopping on the way to visit the Museum and the Interpretation Centre at Dhangarhi. Dhikuli is located on the eastern fringe of Corbett National Park only 7 km from the nearest town. Our destination of the day is the Infinity Resorts.

Infinity Resorts previously known as the Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge is located at a stone's throw away from the National Park, on the banks of river Kosi, with an excellent view of the jungles and the Himalayas. The Resort has 24 AC rooms with attached baths, a swimming pool, bar, and its kitchen serves delicious cuisine to its guests. The Infinity Resorts operate their own NGO called Corbett Foundation, which conducts scientific research in the area and also provides financial assistance to villagers whose livestock is killed by tigers and leopards.

In the evening, an escorted trek along Kosi, for birdwatching.

Day 12 Corbett Tiger Reserve & around
Rise and shine early to catch the denizens of these pristine forests in open 4x4s. Our safari is through the Bijrani Range where we hunt game (with our cameras and binoculars of course) in this sub-Himalayan wilderness made famous by Jim Corbett in his books. We return to base for breakfast and after a short rest depart for exploration of a little visited area of Corbett Country (Lohachaur / Sitabani / Betalghat / Kaladhungi*). Return before sundown. Dinner and overnight at Infinity Resorts.

Day 13 Dhikuli - Delhi 275 km 6 hours
On this final day of our tour we once again wake up early for the second safari through the Bijrani Range where we make one last ditch effort to track the elusive predator of the Indian jungles - the Royal Bengal Tiger. We return for breakfast. Post breakfast departure for Delhi via Kaladhungi where we visit Corbett's winter home, now converted in to a museum. En route, halt for lunch at Moradabad. Arrive in Delhi late in the evening. After dinner transfer to the Airport to for your flight
CHECKLISTS OF MAMMALS & BIRDS will be provided at the time of booking.