INDIA | KALINJAR & VARANASI

The Path to Varanasi & Kalinjar combines some of the most special places in India, including the fascinatingly chaotic city of Kolkata, the holy city of Varanasi, the sacred Ganges, the wild landscapes of Kalinjar and Panna.

Your journey begins in Kolkata, where a rich cultural potpourri defines the quintessential Indian experience and colonial remnants are overlaid by a patriotic, revolutionary zeal. The journey continues inland to the holy city of Varanasi. Situated at the confluence of two tributaries of the Ganges river, Varanasi has a long history of spiritual sanctity and knowledge—it had reached its zenith as a centre of religion and learning in the 7th century B.C.. With three great religions—Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism— acknowledging it as a place of homage, Varanasi’s riverbanks (known as ghats) draw millions of pilgrims.

A two-three nights’ camping experience begins at Kalinjar, where its local culture, history and wild landscape uncovers much wonder. Kalinjar is such a special place and easily one of our favourite experiences in India.

The journey concludes at Panna National Park, staying at Sarai at Toria, a beautiful property with lovely owners, Dr Raghu Chundawat, who is the conservation biologist and a pioneer in Tiger conservation.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

Experience the rich history and chaos of Kolkata
Experience the rich history and chaos of Kolkata
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Experience the bustle of Kolkata and learn about its rich history.
The Holy City of Varanasi
The Holy City of Varanasi
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Cruise along the Ganges in the morning and walk the old streets of the holy city.
Camping in Kalinjar
Camping in Kalinjar
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Explore and camp in the wild landscapes and fortresses in Kalinjar.
Panna Tiger Reserve
Panna Tiger Reserve
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Go on game drives with your naturalist to spot local wildlife in Panna.
Temples of Khajuraho
Temples of Khajuraho
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The temples are well known for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures
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ACCOMMODATION

These are a selection of lodges that we feel combine well for this journey. However we do also have a range of options to consider in each region, and can tailor them to you preference.

India - Panna

Sarai at Toria, Panna

With sweeping views of the gushing Ken River, the thatched, mud-caked cottages and the stone-paved dining areas, the Sarai at Toria is a simple but tastefully done-up property that blends into the rustic landscape at the edge of the Panna National Park. Enjoy the comforts of a stay that has little impact on the wildlife, offers rich pickings for fishermen, and is dominated by the incredible diversity of insects and birds on the riverside

India - Kalinjar

Khaafila Camps, Kalinjar

A private, mobile tented camp with the most knowledgeable guides in the most inaccessible regions of India. A stay at Kaafila Camp brings you far from the tourist trails to some of India’s secret places.

India - Brijrama

Brijrama Palace, Varanasi

Brijrama Palace is an emerging, unique experience that holds a lot of promise for travellers seeking unique and authentic experiences in Varanasi, especially for those looking for something more lavish on the riverside ghats. A uniformed team in a canopied boat welcome guests with a cool, local drink – setting the tone for Varanasi hospitality.

India - Kolkata

Glenburn Penthouse, Kolkata

Kolkata's first boutique hotel overlooking Victoria Memorial. This charming property was developed by the same team behind the Glenburn Tea Estate.

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