otters, jackal, jungle cat, fish eating crocodilians, Gangetic river dolphins, and large numbers of migratory birds. The last stop before returning to Delhi would be Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal, which is only an hour away from Chambal. After a short stay in Agra, return to Delhi and depart home. The reintroduction of the onehorned rhinoceros is one of India’s great conservation successes; numbers have risen in Kaziranga from 300 to over 3,000 in the last 60 years. In the 1980s, some were successfully moved to Dudhwa, where they now have a viable breeding population. For those revisiting and seeking off the trodden path, what in particular is currently exciting you that’s quite unique? One of the most exciting of the new experiences is to explore the oak, rhododendron, bamboo, and subtropical forests between 1,800 to 2,500 metres along the Singalila Ridge, which divides the Darjeeling area of West Bengal from Nepal. Red pandas are the highlight here. Many Himalayan bird species nest here, along with local migrants. Mammals include barking deer, martens, and leopard. Tigers are an essential ingredient on any itinerary. Away from Ranthambhore National Park, which can be very busy, are there other places at the moment where sightings are exceptional? Tiger sightings fluctuate slightly year to year in many parks. Luckily, India’s parks remain wild. Tigers tend to have a two-year breeding 5 “...everything I love about India: its mystery, its majesty, and its ability to humble and inspire.” © Varun Mathur © Varun Mathur © Varun Mathur Contact us on 01625 581122 |
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