Tour Operators - Naturetrek

India Naturetrek – Photographic and Natural History Tour. This twelve-day tour of northern India exceeded all expectations. The diversity of Indian culture, the ancient temples, friendly people and unforgettable sightings of the majestic Bengal Tiger in its natural surroundings was an experience to live in the memory. The hotels were excellent and it was difficult to choose between them, although for historical interest and architecture the Laxmi Vilas Palace, built in 1896, for the brother of a local Maharajah held the most fascination. Situated nearby, in which we spend some time, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, reputed to be the finest bird sanctuary in the world was for many of the bird watchers in the party the highlight of the trip. In the following days we travelled to Agra and the magnificent Taj Mahal with many jockeying for a photograph on the Princess Diana Seat. Our travel by train took a full day arriving at night, at Jjansi, where, within the confines of the station many of the poorer Indians slept at night. The morning was occupied with a visit to the Chandela Dynasty Temples and a legacy to the Chandela Kings who ruled here over a thousand years ago. As a photographic venue this was an exceptional location. Eventually, it was back on the road with a long drive to Bandhavgarh Nature Reserve and accommodation in separate hostel type cottages in a most picturesque setting. It may have been Tenko in appearance but surprisingly comfortable with the friendly and helpful staff. We were fortunate to spot several tigers both from landrovers and the back of elephants. In fact many times we were only several metres from a tiger in repose – it was a wonderful experience. Amazingly none of the Park Staff carried guns – for protection they armed themselves with a pointed stick. It was after an interesting drive through several colourful villages over testing roads we arrived at Umaria Rail Station for an over night express back to Delhi. Perhaps the description of ‘express’ is generous. It was here the beggars would test our resolve; they ranged from the well presented to the horribly deformed. We were advised to arrange our cases, in a circle, at the platform akin the covered wagons of the Wild West in an attempt to forestall the beggars. Some of the porters, many tiny in proportions, would carry huge loads and would jostle for trade. Sometimes the train would grind to a halt because of cattle on the line and an array of Indian youngsters would board the train selling their wares. Some passengers got off for a walkabouts and the driver blew a signal as a warning that the train was moving. Train travel in India is by its very nature a unique experience and a flirtation with the microcosm of Indian life of which the railways play an important role. At New Delhi we were pampered with shear luxury at the Uppals Orchid Hotel for our last night in India, although it is difficult not to feel a twinge of guilt when you witness the conditions that some of the lower-caste Indians have to endure – but that I suppose, is part of the make-up of this fascinating country. In conclusion I have to pay tribute to Khalid Pasha, our guide through out the holiday. He is the consummate professional, who was always there for help and advice and treated everyone with the same friendly, courteous manner. Ken Smith. Amble, Northumberland.