Birding Bliss with Nature Admire: Bharatpur & Chambal Tour

Day 01: Delhi to Dholpur (Rajasthan)

The journey begins in India’s bustling capital, Delhi, where our representative greets you at the airport or a designated location. From there, we embark on a smooth 5-hour drive to Dholpur, Rajasthan, arriving at the National Chambal Sanctuary by lunchtime.

After checking into a comfortable lodge and enjoying a short rest and lunch, the adventure begins with an afternoon birding session.

The National Chambal Sanctuary is a haven for diverse wildlife, including Gharials, Marsh Crocodiles, Gangetic Dolphins, Striped Hyenas, and Wolves. However, our primary focus is the sanctuary’s remarkable avian population of 250 resident and migratory bird species. The evening is spent exploring Chambal’s birding trails in search of aquatic birds, raptors, and grassland species.

Overnight: Lodge in Dholpur.

Day 02: Birding at Chambal Sanctuary

Start the day with a boat safari on the Chambal River, which flows from the Vindhya Mountains through Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. The sanctuary’s birding hotspot is home to numerous species, including the sought-after Indian Skimmer.

Other notable birds to spot and photograph include:

• Bar-headed Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, Great Thick-knee, River Lapwing
• Woolly-necked Stork, Bonelli’s Eagle, Laggar Falcon
• Sarus Crane, Pallas’s Gull, Yellow-eyed Babbler, Black-bellied Tern

The diverse habitats and abundant wildlife ensure a rewarding day of birdwatching.

Overnight: Lodge in Dholpur.

Day 03: Dholpur to Bharatpur – Keoladeo National Park

Post-breakfast, we drive 2 hours to Bharatpur, home to the renowned Keoladeo National Park (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is celebrated globally for its thriving avian population of over 400 species, especially migratory waterfowl.

Keoladeo’s varied terrain of dry grasslands, wetlands, swamps, and scrubs creates a vibrant habitat for birds like:

• Indian Courser, Sociable Lapwing, Imperial Eagle, Siberian Rubythroat
• Greater Painted Snipe, Black-necked Stork, Dalmatian Pelican, Demoiselle Crane

A full day of birdwatching culminates with dinner and relaxation at a cozy resort.

Overnight: Resort in Bharatpur.

Day 04: Keoladeo National Park – Full Day Exploration

After breakfast, we delve deeper into Keoladeo National Park, exploring different trails to spot new avian species. From wetlands to grasslands, the park offers endless opportunities for birding enthusiasts.

Species on the radar include:

• Jungle Bush Quail, Falcated Duck, Eurasian Wryneck, Stork-billed Kingfisher
• Oriental Scops Owl, Dusky Eagle Owl, Black Bittern, Great Crested Grebe
• Wire-tailed Swallow, Black-hooded Oriole, Zitting Cisticola, Red Avadavat

Evening relaxation follows an enriching day of birding.

Overnight: Resort in Bharatpur.

Day 05: Morning Birding & Agra Tour

A final early-morning birding session at Keoladeo allows us to check off any missing birds on the list. Post-birdwatching, we drive 2 hours to Agra, stopping en route at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival in Agra, unwind at the hotel and explore the vibrant marketplace in the evening.

Overnight: Hotel in Agra.

Day 06: Agra Sightseeing

This day is dedicated to exploring Agra’s historical and cultural treasures. After breakfast, visit the iconic Taj Mahal, followed by Agra Fort and other landmarks:

• Itimad-ud-Daula’s Tomb
• Akbar’s Tomb
• Jama Masjid
• Mehtab Bagh
• Tiranga Chowk

Lunch is self-sponsored, allowing flexibility to sample local cuisine.

Overnight: Hotel in Agra.

Day 07: Mathura & Vrindavan – Return to Delhi

After breakfast, check out and proceed to Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and Vrindavan, a hub of spiritual and cultural significance.

Post these visits, we continue the journey to Delhi, concluding the tour with an evening drop-off at the railway station or Metro station. Guests with extended plans can make arrangements for onward travel.

Key Highlights:

• Immersive birding experiences at Chambal and Keoladeo National Parks.
• Cultural visits to Fatehpur Sikri, Taj Mahal, and Agra Fort.
• Spiritual exploration of Mathura and Vrindavan.

Note: This itinerary is customizable to suit your preferences.