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Central India: Treasures Of The Deccan Plateau
Group Tour
Overview
This journey through Central India offers a remarkable mix of history, culture, architecture and adventure, combining extraordinary sights with fascinating experiences well off the beaten track.
Starting in Mumbai, we take the train to Aurangabad to explore the spectacular Ajanta and Ellora Caves, before continuing to Hyderabad to discover the iconic Charminar, mighty Golconda Fort and atmospheric tombs of the Qutb Shahi kings. From here, we head into Karnataka, exploring the magnificent ...
This journey through Central India offers a remarkable mix of history, culture, architecture and adventure, combining extraordinary sights with fascinating experiences well off the beaten track.
Starting in Mumbai, we take the train to Aurangabad to explore the spectacular Ajanta and Ellora Caves, before continuing to Hyderabad to discover the iconic Charminar, mighty Golconda Fort and atmospheric tombs of the Qutb Shahi kings. From here, we head into Karnataka, exploring the magnificent Islamic architecture of Bijapur, including Gol Gumbaz and Ibrahim Rouza, before visiting the ancient rock-cut caves of Badami and UNESCO-listed Pattadakal.
The journey reaches its spectacular finale in Hampi, the extraordinary ruined capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Explore the celebrated Vittala Temple, Elephant Stables and Lotus Mahal, as well as the charming heritage village of Anegundi, where traditional crafts, local life and prehistoric rock art offer a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past. We finish in Bangalore, bringing this epic journey through the heart of Central India to a close.
HIGHLIGHTS
At a glance
MEALS
TRANSPORT
Minibuses, trains and auto-rickshaws
GROUP SIZE
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
ENTRANCE FEES
FITNESS RATING
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
As an overall ethos, wherever possible we aim to use characterful accommodation that enhances the overall travel experience, not just offers a bed for the night. This can obviously vary dramatically from country to country and from trip to trip.
On this tour, we will stay in hotels for the majority of the journey, with a resort in Badami and a lodge in Hampi, located on the northern banks of the Tungabhadra River. The tour also includes an overnight train from Mumbai to Aurangabad on Day 3. Please be aware that the accommodation in places like Bijapur and Badami is of a more basic 2/3 star standard.
On the overnight train we will be using 4 berth cabins. Please see the 'Supplementary Information' section for more information on what to expect from the overnight train journey.
Please note that the accommodation mentioned in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is always subject to availability.
FITNESS RATING
LOW: You should be comfortable walking around towns and cultural sites. May include some optional walks (typically 1-2hrs).LOW/MODERATE: May be of a long duration and/or involve numerous border-crossings. May include easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-3hrs/day). You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle.
MODERATE: May include several easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-5hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle. Previous experience of similar trips helpful.
MODERATE/HIGH: May involve several days of moderate hiking (up to 3-6 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
HIGH: May involve several days of moderate/strenuous trekking (up to 4-7 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a very fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
Map & Itinerary
Individual departures may vary so please refer to the information in the tour specific links in the Dates and Prices section below
Day 1 Tour Starts in Mumbai
Day 1 Tour Starts in Mumbai
The tour starts this afternoon at the joining hotel. From here we’ll take a wander around this fascinating city, with time at the famous arch that is the ‘Gateway to India’ and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formally Prince of Wales) Museum. We’ll end the day with a visit to the Taj, which overlooks the harbour and is a great place for a drink, before having dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2 In Mumbai: Dhobi Ghat, Dharavi and Street Art
Day 2 In Mumbai: Dhobi Ghat, Dharavi and Street Art
After breakfast, we’ll head to Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat, one of Mumbai’s most distinctive working landmarks and widely recognised as the world’s largest open-air, non-mechanised laundry. Although some machinery is now used, much of the washing is still done by hand in long rows of concrete wash basins, with clothes beaten against traditional washing stones. From here, we’ll take a guided walking tour through Dharavi, a densely populated and remarkably enterprising neighbourhood at the heart of Mumbai’s small-scale industries. Home to a diverse community, Dharavi has a thriving network of local businesses, including recycling workshops, pottery, embroidery, bakeries, soap-making, leather work and poppadom production. People from across India have made Dharavi their home, creating a vibrant and culturally diverse community. As we explore the narrow lanes, we’ll learn about local businesses, livelihoods and community life, while looking out for the colourful murals created by artists working alongside local residents. The street art is now a source of considerable local pride.This afternoon, we’ll also see some of Mumbai’s best-known landmarks, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the Mahalakshmi Temple, the Rajabai Clock Tower and Library, and the colonial-era General Post Office.
Day 3 Mumbai - Aurangabad: Train Journey Through The Countryside
Day 3 Mumbai - Aurangabad: Train Journey Through The Countryside
We will have a leisurely morning in Mumbai before boarding our day train to Aurangabad. We will sit back and watch the changing landscapes unfold as we travel through India by rail, soaking up the sights and atmosphere along the way. On arrival this evening, we’ll transfer to our hotel for dinner.
Train Journey time: Approx. 6 hrs. Please see the 'Key Aspects to Consider' section for more information on what to expect from the day train journey.
Day 4 Aurangabad – Ajanta Caves – Aurangabad: Ancient Buddhist Art & History
Day 4 Aurangabad – Ajanta Caves – Aurangabad: Ancient Buddhist Art & History
After breakfast we’ll drive north for a couple of hours to visit the Ajanta Caves. Predating those at Ellora, the Ajanta Caves are entirely Buddhist and famous for their exquisite paintings. After the decline in Buddhism, the caves were forgotten only to be ‘rediscovered’ in 1819 by a group of British soldiers out on a hunting trip. Their beauty was soon unveiled and they now represent one of Maharashtra’s best-known sites. In the afternoon we will drive back to Aurangabad where the rest of the day will be at your leisure.
Day 5 Aurangabad - Ellora Caves - Overnight Train To Hyderabad: Underground Temples & Mountain Fort
Day 5 Aurangabad - Ellora Caves - Overnight Train To Hyderabad: Underground Temples & Mountain Fort
After breakfast we’ll visit the Ellora Caves, a truly amazing series of underground temples with extraordinary sculptures, built between the 7th and 11th centuries AD. From here we’ll travel back to Aurangabad, stopping on the way to visit Devagiri-Daulatabad fort, an imposing structure built by King Bhillam of the Yadava dynasty in the late 12th century. Its strategic location on a large rock outcrop was so impregnable that it was never taken by force. We’ll then have an early dinner before boarding our overnight train to Hyderabad.
Train Journey time: Approx. 11 hrs. Please see the 'Supplementary Information' section for more information on what to expect from the overnight train journey.
Day 6 In Hyderabad: City Tour & Palace Grandeur
Day 6 In Hyderabad: City Tour & Palace Grandeur
We will arrive in Hyderabad this morning and transfer to our hotel for the chance to freshen up. Once in the ‘city of pearls’ we’ll walk around the Old City and the 16th century Charminar, which houses Hyderabad’s oldest mosque. We’ll also explore the bazaars around the Charminar selling all manner of items from bangles to budgerigars and look around the Mecca Masjid which can house up to 10,000 worshippers. Tonight we’ll have drinks at the historic Taj Falaknuma Palace, which is one of the most opulent hotels on the subcontinent. The former residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad, the hotel exudes the elegance and gilded grandeur of a bygone age. Boasting Venetian chandeliers, priceless art, Japanese Gardens and a library of rare distinction, the hotel affords us a truly unique insight into the lives of one of India’s richest dynasties.
Day 7 In & Around Hyderabad: Golconda Fort & Tombs Of Kings
Day 7 In & Around Hyderabad: Golconda Fort & Tombs Of Kings
This morning we head out of town to visit Golconda Fort, the capital of Telangana until 1590 when a terrible drought forced the people of the city to move and the founding of Hyderabad. We then return to town, stopping en route to wander around the serenely set tombs of the Qutb Shahi Kings. This afternoon/evening you will be free to wander and discover more of this fascinating city for yourself. Tonight dinner will be at your own expense.
Day 8 Hyderabad - Bijapur: Journey To Karnataka
Day 8 Hyderabad - Bijapur: Journey To Karnataka
After breakfast, we’ll leave Aurangabad behind and journey south into the neighbouring state of Karnataka, heading towards Bijapur, a city famed for its striking Islamic architecture and fascinating history. The drive will take up much of the day. On arrival we’ll have some time to get our first taste of the city and take in a few of its local sights before dinner.
Driving time: Approx. 8.5 - 9.5 hrs
Day 9 Bijapur - Badami: Gol Gumbaz & Elegant Islamic Architecture
Day 9 Bijapur - Badami: Gol Gumbaz & Elegant Islamic Architecture
This morning we’ll explore two of Bijapur’s most impressive monuments, beginning with the magnificent Gol Gumbaz. Dominating the city skyline, its vast 38-metre-wide dome is one of the largest unsupported domes in the world. We will climb the narrow staircase to the famous Whispering Gallery, where even the faintest sound can travel around the dome and be heard from the opposite side. We’ll also visit the elegant Ibrahim Rauza, widely regarded as one of India’s finest examples of Islamic architecture. Built in the 17th century by Ibrahim Adil Shah II, the complex is celebrated not for its scale but for its graceful proportions, intricate detail and beautiful minarets, which are said to have inspired the design of those at the Taj Mahal. We’ll continue our journey to Badami, where we’ll spend the night.
Day 10 In Badami: Temples & Pattadakal
Day 10 In Badami: Temples & Pattadakal
This morning we’ll discover the remarkable 5th-century temples at Aihole, before continuing to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pattadakal. Here, a spectacular collection of temples showcases the evolution of Indian architecture and craftsmanship. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Badami, where there’ll be plenty of time to explore its extraordinary rock-cut temples, carved into the dramatic red sandstone cliffs overlooking the town.
Day 11 Badami - Hampi: UNESCO World Heritage Site & Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary
Day 11 Badami - Hampi: UNESCO World Heritage Site & Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary
Today, we drive from Badami to Hampi, travelling through the scenic landscapes of northern Karnataka. En route, we visit Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, a protected reserve renowned for its population of Indian sloth bears. The sanctuary offers us a fascinating opportunity to observe these elusive animals in their natural habitat, particularly from the designated viewing areas where they often emerge in search of food. We then continue to Hampi, the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. On arrival, we check in to our hotel and enjoy some time to relax before taking in our first views of Hampi’s extraordinary landscape, where ancient ruins, towering boulders and palm-fringed scenery create an unforgettable setting.
Driving time: Approx. 3.5 - 4.5 hrs
Day 12 In Hampi: Vittala Temple, Elephant Stables & Lotus Mahal
Day 12 In Hampi: Vittala Temple, Elephant Stables & Lotus Mahal
Today, we explore the spectacular ruins of Vijayanagar, the once-mighty 15th-century capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. We begin with the magnificent Vittala Temple, one of Hampi’s most remarkable monuments, before continuing to some of the city’s other highlights, including the impressive Elephant Stables and the elegant Lotus Mahal. After our morning of exploring, we’ll head back into town for lunch at a beautiful riverside setting, where we can escape the midday heat and enjoy some time to relax. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are free for you to explore Hampi at our own pace, whether wandering among the atmospheric ruins or simply soaking up the unique surroundings. Dinner tonight will be at our own expense.
Day 13 Beyond Hampi: The Ancient Village of Anegundi
Day 13 Beyond Hampi: The Ancient Village of Anegundi
Today, we venture beyond Hampi to Anegundi, an ancient village across the Tungabhadra River, traditionally associated with Kishkindha, the legendary monkey kingdom of the Ramayana. We will discover a fascinating blend of mythology, history, rural life and living traditions. We begin at Anegundi Fort before travelling by tractor through the surrounding countryside, passing fields, palm trees, irrigation channels and small settlements. We then meet local women artisans at a banana-fibre craft initiative, learning how discarded banana stems are transformed into handmade products and gaining an insight into the community’s sustainable traditions. Later, we visit Pampa Sarovar, one of the sacred sites associated with the Ramayana, before continuing to Anjanadri Hill, traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. With its peaceful surroundings and panoramic views, it provides a memorable end to our day.
Day 14 Hampi - Bangalore: Chitradurga Fort
Day 14 Hampi - Bangalore: Chitradurga Fort
This morning, we depart Hampi and drive towards Bangalore, travelling through the scenic countryside of Karnataka. En route, we stop at Chitradurga Fort, one of the state’s most impressive historic landmarks and a remarkable feat of military architecture. Set among a dramatic landscape of granite boulders and rocky hills, the fort is famed for its seven concentric defensive walls, imposing gateways, watchtowers, temples and winding passages. We will explore the fort and learn about its fascinating history, including its association with the Nayaka rulers of Chitradurga and the battles fought for control of the region. From its elevated viewpoints, we will enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding countryside. We then continue our journey to Bangalore, arriving later in the day. After checking in to our hotel, there should be some time to relax and unwind before we come together for a farewell dinner and reflect on the highlights of our journey.
Driving time: Approx. 7 - 8 hrs
Day 15 Tour Ends In Bangalore
Day 15 Tour Ends In Bangalore
The tour ends after breakfast and those on the group flight will be transferred to the airport.
ACCOMMODATION USED ON THIS TOUR
Fariyas Hotel Mumbai, Mumbai
Located just off the Colaba Causeway on a quiet street, the Fariyas Hotel is right in the heart of the southern part of the city, a great location from which to explore the surrounding area. One of the highlights of this property is being able to walk to a number of interesting sites nearby, including the wonderful Gateway of India, the Prince of Wales Museum and David Sassoon Library. The hotel itself offers high levels of service and clean, spacious rooms, some with great views of the harbour. The restaurant offers a substantial breakfast as well as lunch and dinner options, with outdoor seating next to the rooftop pool area. Overall this is a great mid-range option for those looking to be in the heart of things during their stay in Mumbai.
Welcomhotel Rama International, Aurangabad
ITC WelcomHotel Aurangabad is a large, comfortable hotel set in landscaped gardens on the outskirts of Aurangabad, within easy reach of the city centre and the road towards the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. The hotel has a traditional yet contemporary style, with spacious public areas and a relaxed atmosphere. Its rooms and suites are generously sized and furnished in a classic style, with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, television, minibar and well-equipped bathrooms. The hotel has several dining options, an open air speciality Indian restaurant as well as an all-day dining restaurant serving Indian and international dishes. There is also a bar for drinks and light refreshments. Leisure facilities include a large outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and health club, while the extensive gardens provide plenty of space to relax.
Marigold Hotel, Hyderabad
Marigold Hotel is a premium hotel located in an upscale area of Hyderabad, close to key commercial districts. The hotel features a modern, sophisticated style with elegant interiors designed to cater to travellers seeking a comfortable city stay. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites equipped with plush bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, workstations, minibars, tea and coffee makers and contemporary bathrooms. Dining options include an all-day multi-cuisine restaurant, a specialty dining venue and a bar. Hotel facilities also include a fitness centre, spa services and a swimming pool.
The Madhuvan International, Bijapur
Madhuvan Hotel in Bijapur offers warm hospitality and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the historic city. The hotel features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities including air conditioning, satellite TV and attached bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant serving local and international cuisine, plus a coffee shop for light refreshments. The hotel provides 24-hour front desk service, parking and free Wi-Fi. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring Bijapur's famous attractions like Gol Gumbuz and Ibrahim Rouza.
The Heritage Resort, Badami
Heritage Resort in Badami is a charming retreat nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Badami. This mid-range property offers a serene and tranquil environment, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape. The resort features well-appointed cottages and rooms that are designed in a traditional style, reflecting the local heritage and culture. set amongst lush gardens. The accommodations are simple yet modern, comfortable and equipped with essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay for guests. Guests can unwind by the sparkling swimming pool, indulge in authentic regional cuisine at the specialty restaurant, or explore the resort's beautifully landscaped gardens.
Hampi's Boulders, Hampi
This wonderful property is the perfect place to enjoy some downtime when visiting Hampi. Located right on the northern banks of the Tungabhadra River about an hour from Hampi's archaeological ruins, Hampi's Boulders was created very much with nature in mind, incorporating the surrounding landscape of water and boulders into the design of the property and having as little impact as possible on the overall location. The 16 rooms are spread across the property in a range of different 'cottages', each with it's own character and design, all very spacious and with en suite bathrooms. Here guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature in between exploring one of India's most impressive sites.
DoubleTree by Hilton Bangalore Airport, Bangalore
DoubleTree by Hilton Bangalore Airport is a contemporary hotel located close to Kempegowda International Airport. The hotel has a modern, understated style, with spacious public areas, landscaped gardens and a large outdoor swimming pool. Its rooms and suites are comfortable and well equipped, with contemporary furnishings, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars and modern bathrooms. The hotel offers a choice of dining options, including an all-day restaurant serving international and Indian dishes, alongside a bar and café. Leisure facilities include the outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation displayed here should be taken as a guide only. *Please refer to the Detailed Itinerary of your individual departure for more information.
PRIVATE HOLIDAYS: DATES DON’T FIT?
All group tours can be taken on a private basis.
Additional Details
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Reducing Single Use Plastic
We recognise the environmental issues and challenges around single-use plastic in many countries we visit and are actively working with our partners on the ground to reduce plastic waste on our tours and within the hotels and restaurants we visit. You can help to reduce your personal plastic waste by taking a refillable, filtered water bottle with you on your trip. Filtered water bottles can be refilled from water sources including your hotel room and restaurant taps, drinking fountains and refill stations. Every time you refill your bottle without the use of single-use plastic, you will be helping to reduce waste and protect the environment. Filtered Water Bottles | Wild Frontiers (wildfrontierstravel.com)
Visit the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary
Located near Hampi, in the Ballari district of Karnataka, you will find Asia’s first sanctuary established specifically for the protection and conservation of the Indian sloth bear. Established in 1994, the sanctuary covers approximately 82.7 square kilometres and is home to a large population of free-ranging sloth bears. The sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to observe these unique animals in their natural surroundings, with designated viewing areas.
Supplementary Information
Overnight Trains in India
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned coach, with reserved 4 berth cabins. arranged across two tiers. Each berth will have a privacy curtain, individual reading lights and charging points. You will be supplied with bedding for the journey, which will include a blanket, bedsheet and pillow. Cabins are fairly compact, and while the berths provide a practical way to travel overnight, they may not offer the same level of comfort as a hotel bed.Please be prepared to share the space with your Wild Frontiers group and fellow passengers. Please note that you will need to use ladders to access the upper berths. Toilets on board are typically of the squat style. Refreshments, including tea, coffee and snacks, are available to purchase on most services, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.
Please be prepared to carry your own luggage on and off the trains, as porterage is not always available at each station. Train journeys in India can occasionally be lengthy or subject to delays but travelling overnight by rail offers a memorable way to experience the country.
Getting There
If you would like us to send you a quote for the suggested tour flights or on any alternative flight that may suit you better, please let us know, noting that for our US clients, we will most likely refer you to one of our preferred partners. For this trip our suggested flights from the UK (subject to change) are shown below.
If you wish to arrange your own flights you are completely free to do so and in this case we can arrange any transfers or supplementary accommodation that you may require. However please note that if you are planning on making your own flight arrangements, we recommend that you first check with us to see if the trip is guaranteed. We then suggest that you purchase flights that are flexible and ideally refundable as due to the nature of adventure travel, itineraries and destination accessibility can change at any time. For more information, please refer to our booking conditions.
| Flight Code | Departing | Arriving |
|---|---|---|
| BA 199 | London Heathrow (LHR) 20:20 | Mumbai Airport (BOM) 11:10 |
| BA 118 | Bengaluru Airport (BLR) 07:15 | London Heathrow (LHR) 13:10 |
Visas & Vaccinations
VISAS
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we
travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information,
requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that
you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa
agency. More details can be found here - www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour UK passport holders currently require an e-visa for India. In addition to your e-Visa you will be required to complete an e-Arrival card. It must be completed online between 72 to 24 hours before you arrive in India.
Please note that if your profession, or previous profession, relates to anything media, governmental, and military related, please speak to the office before booking onto this tour.
Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should
contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
Please note that passport scans are required in order to book the domestic trains.
VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to India.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is a requirement for travellers arriving from certain countries. Please visit the Indian Bureau of Immigration website for information.
For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.
Malaria is present in some parts of India and precautions are essential.
For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.
If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Extensions
If you have more time available, why not arrive early to adjust to a new time zone or just to get a feel for the country before your tour starts? Alternatively, you might choose to allow a few extra days after the tour to relax or to undertake some further exploration.
The choice is completely yours and we can usually arrange anything from simply additional accommodation and transfers to full tailor-made itineraries*. Please contact the office for more details and to discuss your requirements.
*Please note bespoke, tailor-made itineraries need to be a minimum of 7 days and we can only offer them in countries where we have a tailor-made expert
Governmental Travel Advice
Many governments issue advice which highlights potential hazards their citizens might experience when travelling abroad. We strongly suggest you refer to your country’s particular advisory site before booking and contact us if you have any queries or concerns. Click to follow links to the advice of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the US State Department.
Non-UK citizens should consult the travel advice of their respective governments.
Key Information
CLIMATE
The winter months from October to March is considered one of the best times to explore this region of India, with generally warm, dry and sunny weather. Days typically range from around 20–30°C, although temperatures can rise into the low 30s in March. Mornings and evenings are cooler, particularly in December and January, so a light jacket or warm layer is recommended.
IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?
It may sound obvious, but not all Wild Frontiers tours are the same, and it is important that you choose a tour which is suitable for you. To help you decide and ensure you choose a suitable tour, please refer to our helpful guide here. As a minimum, you should make sure that you read the day-by-day itinerary and the Key Aspects to Consider sections carefully. Should you still have any concerns about your ability to partake in any aspect of the tour, then please contact us.
KEY ASPECTS TO CONSIDER
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure, should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as many of the activities are optional. Whilst we will not cover huge distances on foot, it is worth noting that sightseeing often involves walking on uneven ground and climbing irregular steps.
It is important to note that this tour includes some long drives on Day 8, 11 and 14 of the tour. Please see the day-by-day itinerary for approximate driving times to help you plan ahead.
Day Train in India: You will travel on India's semi-high-speed rail network from Mumbai to Aurangabad on Day 3 of the tour. You'll travel in reserved, air-conditioned chair cars, sharing the journey with your Wild Frontiers group and fellow passengers. Please be prepared to carry your own luggage on and off the trains, as porterage is not always available at each station. Toilets on board are typically of the squat style, although some services may also offer Western-style facilities. Refreshments, including tea, coffee and snacks, are available to purchase on most services, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.
Overnight Train in India: You will travel on an overnight train from Aurangabad to Hyderabad on Day 5 of the tour. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned coach, with reserved 4 berth cabins arranged across two tiers. Each berth will have a privacy curtain, individual reading lights and charging points. You will be supplied with bedding for the journey, which will include a blanket, bedsheet and pillow. Cabins are fairly compact, and while the berths provide a practical way to travel overnight, they may not offer the same level of comfort as a hotel bed. Please be prepared to share the space with your Wild Frontiers group and fellow passengers. Please note that you will need to use ladders to access the upper berths. Toilets on board are typically of the squat style. Refreshments, including tea, coffee and snacks, are available to purchase on most services, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey. Please be prepared to carry your own luggage on and off the trains, as porterage is not always available at each station. Train journeys in India can occasionally be lengthy or subject to delays but travelling overnight by rail offers a memorable and authentic way to experience the country.
Tipping: Please note that tips provided to service staff during
the tour, such as waiters and hotel porters, are included in the cost of this
tour. Tips for tour leaders and drivers are not included, and, at your
discretion, you may decide to tip your tour leader and driver at the end of the
tour based on the service you have received. We recommend the following amounts
when tipping your tour leader, driver and driver assistant. Obviously, this is entirely optional (and at the individual’s discretion), but this information should offer you a general guideline.
Tour leader – GBP £4-7 per person per day (or the equivalent amount in USD or rupees)
Driver – GBP £3 (or the equivalent amount in USD or rupees)
Driver Assistant - GBP £1 (or the equivalent amount in USD or rupees)
Dietary: Vegetarians and vegans are very well catered for on this tour. If you have specific dietary requirements, please do discuss your needs with us before booking this tour.
THE NATURE OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL
We feel that it’s worth pointing out that while we will always strive to stick as close to the stated itinerary as possible, it may be necessary from time to time to make changes to our itineraries or services (due to weather, political and religious influences etc.) and this can happen with little or no notice. This unpredictability can be one of the most exciting aspects of adventure travel and for many of our clients often leads to unexpected highlights as the tour-leader necessarily adapts the tour to the changing conditions. However we are aware that this lack of assuredness may not suit everyone. As such, with the greatest respect, if you are someone who needs to know that everything will happen exactly as planned, we would kindly suggest that perhaps our tours are not for you. Adventure travel can be infectious and once you’ve caught the bug, it is likely to never leave you, but especially if this is your first such tour we would strongly urge you to give us a call if you have any concerns whatsoever about your suitability for this trip.
TRAVELLING SOLO AND SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.
On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement, then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour except when on the overnight train. Please see the 'Supplementary Information' section for more information on what to expect from the train journey.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
INSURANCE
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
General Information
TOUR PRICE
All our tours are priced on a land-only basis, giving you maximum flexibility when deciding how to get to and from your tour.
DEPOSIT
A 15% deposit is required to confirm your booking.
PROTECTION FOR YOUR MONEY
For further details please see our travelling with peace of mind page
WILD MILES
This tour will earn you 8952 Wild Miles
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Tips for your tour
leader, drivers, and driver assistant throughout the tour. These are always
optional, and guidance is provided in the Key Information section and in the
Pre-Departure Information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
WILD FRONTIERS COMMUNITY
If you’re still not sure if this trip is right or just want to see get some different perspectives, then why not have a look at the wide variety of resources we have on our website? Browse our community section to read our blogs, watch videos and find out about our events.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
We are frequently asked what makes Wild Frontiers different from other tour operators. Visit our Why Wild Frontiers page to find out.