The King Kobra Tour

Ever-regarded as a vicious and aggressive snake, King Kobra usually found in deep, dense forest and mild cool climates with a lot of humidity. Though it usually tries to escape when disturbed, when angered it stands menacingly with one-third of its body erect, and its hood spread.

The King Cobra is among the most poisonous snakes in the world, and with length of up to 5 m. The large head of the giant King Cobra is little wider than the neck. The head scales are edged with black and the overall color varies from yellowish to deep olive-green but the tail if often jet-black. The underside is a lighter shade of the body color. King Cobras are the largest venomous snakes in the world and mostly feeds exclusively on other snakes and sometimes on monitor lizards.

One of its special characteristics is that the female remains with the eggs till they hatch, though in most other species of snakes, the mother lays the eggs and goes away. It is the only female snake in the world that binds its own nest. Made of earth and leaves with coils of its body, the female lays the eggs and guards them till they hatch. The average life span of a King Cobra is between 12 - 15 years.

Duration : 12 Nights & 13 Days
Destinations : Kolkata - Sunderbans - Baripada - Simlipal - Chandbala - Bhitarkanika - Bhubaneshwar - Nandankana - Konark - Puri - Kolakata - Delhi

Day 0: Departure from U.K

Day 01 : Arrive Kolkata

On arrival at Kolkata airport meet with our representative and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 02 : Kolkata - Sunderbans

Today after breakfast will start our journey to the mangrove of Sunderbans for our very first day in search of the vicious King Kobra & other deadly reptiles. Travelling through beautiful countryside and rural bazaar, by the noon we will arrive at Gothkhali Jetty (Travel by land ends here), where you will be greeted by your local guide and provided refreshments onboard your cruiser. We cruise through rivers Gomor, Durgadhwani to enter river Pitchkhali on banks of which lies the resort.

On your arrival you will be greeted by our team and checked into your cottage followed by a hot lunch. Your afternoon entails observing the number of reptiles which is found in excellence while you cruise through the creeks and canals of the Sunderban Tiger Reserve forest to Sajnekhali Watchtower. Some of the most commonly seen are - Olive Ridley Turtles, Sea Snakes, Dog Faced Water Snakes, Green Turtles, Estuarine Crocodiles, Chameleons, King Cobras, Salvator Lizards, Hard Shelled Batgun Terrapins, Russels Vipers, Mouse Ghekos, Monitor Lizards, Curviers, Hawks Bill Turtles, Pythons, Common Kraits, Chequered Killbacks and rat Snakes etc.

As the sun sets in the distant horizon we return to the resort to refresh and join us for Hi-Tea with Snacks by the evening (Optional bonfire to view Adibasi dance performed by the tribal's of Sunderbans. The folklore depicts their century old cultural in its true native form. They showcase happiness and hardships in their lives through dance and recitals of their folklore). Dinner and over night stay.

Day 03 : Sunderbans

As you wake up to the chirping of birds and morning wake up bell, a hot cup of tea is served in your balcony. Refresh and board a thrilling cruise towards Do-banki Watch Tower as we move into the Sunderban Tiger Reserve Forest through creeks and dense forest and numerous rivers. Monitor lizard basking by the sun as well as monkeys and wild boars may be sighted nearby. The canopy walk at Do-banki Watch Tower inside the forest sends chills down your spine (experience the life in which caged animals live in, while getting a 360° view of the forest). Here we will counter with some of its fishes and amphibians like Saw Fish, Butter Fish, Electric Rays, Silver Carp, Star Fish, Common Carp, Crabs, Prawn, Shrimps, Gangetic dolphins, Skipping Frogs, Common Toads and Tree Frogs etc.

We will also visit the spotted deer rehabilitation centre after which we cruise back through Matla - Sea Face (the point from where Bay of Bengal can be seen) back to the Resort for lunch.
In the afternoon you will experience the true Sunderbans, as you walk through the native village of Dayapur. You will encounter many wonderful sights as you learn about the lifestyle, local crafts, cuisines, and way of life of the local villagers. Observe their indigenous farming methods and how their houses are completely mud made with small entrances. Your tour will pass through the village market. Dinner & overnight stay at resort.

Day 04 : Sunderbans Tiger Reserve

We will be ready for our third day Reptile tour to Sunderban national park, after breakfast we depart for Netidopani Watch Tower, which is located deep inside the Sunderban Tiger Reserve. It houses a 300 year old temple of 'Bon Bibi' - Forest Goddess where the villagers who are fishermen and honey collectors of every caste pray for their safety and security from the tiger and crocodile whom they have personified as gods and goddesses. Here we will counter with a huge number of reptiles. (Hot Lunch is served onboard as we cruise back to the resort).
In the evening you will be invited to the local rural theatre (Bonobibi Yatra) performed by the villagers in their native language 'Bengali.' The theatre tells the interesting story of the Tiger Lord, Forest God and Goddesses, fishermen and honey collectors with lots of local songs and dances. Dinner & overnight stay at resort.

Day 05 : Sunderbans Tiger Reserve - Kolkata - Baripada, 230 km

After breakfast at the resort we will be move for Kolkata. On arrival drive to Baripada a journey of 5 ½ hrs by road will take us to the entry point of Simlipal National Park. On arrival check in at the hotel / lodge. Overnight stay in Lodge.

Day 06 : Baipada - Simlipal, 50 km - Baripada

After collecting our entry permit from Field Director, Simlipal Tiger Project for Simlipal national Park at Baripada, we will move to Simlipal with packed lunch.

Simlipal consist predominantly of deciduous sal trees, and are crisscrossed by twelve rivers, which meander through the hills and plateaus of Simlipal, creating some of the area's most impressive waterfalls. The spectacular Barehipani waterfall, with a 400-metre drop, and the Joranda waterfall, with a shorter drop of 150 metres, are so beautiful that one is forced to reflect on nature's majesty. About 30 species of reptiles have been recorded in Simlipal forest.

Later return to Baripada for overnight stay.

Day 07 : Baripada - Chandbala, 180 km - Bhitarkanika

Morning after breakfast drive to Chandbala the road head to Bhitarkanika. On arrival we will board the boat to reach Bhitarkanika. This 3 hrs boat cruise will take us to Bhitarkanika - a wonder in the wild. It is bounded by rivers on the three sides and the sea on the fourth. Bhitarkanika is crisscrossed by numerous creeks and canals which finally meet the sea and make the estuarine delta, the playground of the Bay of Bengal.
It is natural habitat for a lot of wild creatures like Crocodiles, King Cobra, Pythons, Wild Pigs, Rhesus Monkey, Sambars, Spotted deers, etc. Overnight in Bhitarkanika, the accommodation will in either Dangmal, Ekabula or Gupti. (Please note, that there will no electricity during the stay).

Day 08 : Bhitarkanika

Full day boat cruise to watch the Wild life in their natural habitat. Watching the wildlife in their natural habitat while cruising through the creek is a thrilling experience. A trek on the laid out routes will also be equally rewarding. Overnight in Bhitarkanika.

Apart from wildlife, about 170 species of avifauna both resident and migratory of different hue enhance the beauty of the wild. Prominent among them are King Fisher, Open billed Storks, Sea Eagles, Kites, Send Pipers, Darters, Whistling, Teals, Sea Gulls, etc. Overnight stay at Bhitarknika.

Day 09 : Bhitarkanika - Chandbala - Bhubaneshwar, 190 km

After breakfast Boat cruise to Chandbala. On arrival at Chandbala drive to Bhubaneshwar. On arrival check in at the hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 10 : Bhubaneshar - Nandankanan, 20 km - Bhubaneshwar

Morning after breakfast we will have a return trip to Nandakanan. Lies in the splendid environs of the Chandaka forest, along the rippling waters of the Kanjia Lake. It also contains a botanical garden and part of it has been declared as sanctuary. The sanctuary also offers residence to a variety of colorful birds and reptiles. It is a breeding ground of numerous fresh water fishes and has a rich aquatic life. The doorway to the Reptile Park in the sanctuary appears like a cave and is shielded by a colossal model of a tyrannosaurus. You will get to see some perilous species of lizards, snakes, crocodiles, and turtles in this sanctuary. The sanctuary accommodates about 18 varieties of reptiles, Later return to Bhubaneshwar for overnight stay.

Day 11 : Bhubaneshwar - Konark, 65 km - Puri, 35 km

Today after breakfast we will drive for Konark, to have the magnificent glimpse of its Sun temple. This temple built in 1278 CE by the Ganga King Narasimha Deva is one of the grandest temples of India and was referred to as the Black Pagoda. The ruins of this temple were excavated in late 19th century. The tower over the Garbagriha is missing, however the Jagmohana is intact, and even in this state, it is awe inspiring.

The Konark temple is widely known not only for its architectural grandeur but also for the intricacy and profusion of sculptural work. The entire temple has been conceived as a chariot of the sun god with 24 wheels, each about 10 feet in diameter, with a set of spokes and elaborate carvings. Seven horses drag the temple. Two lions guard the entrance, crushing elephants. A flight of steps lead to the main entrance.
Later drive to Puri, on arrival check in at the hotel. Evening free to explore its beaches. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 12 : Puri - Chilka, 48 km - Bhubaneshwar, 110 km

Morning visit the Jaganath temple, it is one of the most renowned as well as the biggest temples of Orissa. Established during the 12th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Lord Krishna), Lord of the Universe.
Later an excursion to Chilka Lake. The pear-shaped lake spreads across 1,100 sq km, and has a unique ecosystem with a range of aquatic flora and fauna found in and around its brackish waters. An impressive array of bird life, both native and migrant, makes Chilka one of the best places in India for a bit of satisfying bird-watching.
White bellied sea eagles, greylag geese, purple moorhen, jacana, herons and flamingos are among the many species which make the lake a bird watcher's delight: Chilka, in fact, is home to one of the world's largest breeding colonies of flamingos.

Other than the birds, Chilka's shores are home to blackbuck, spotted deer, golden jackals and hyenas, and the lake is rich in aquatic life- its waters harbor around 160 species of fish, crustaceans and other marine creatures, including the famous Chilka dolphin.
In the evening drive to Bhubaneshwar. On arrival check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 13 : Bhubaneshwar - Kolkata / Delhi

Morning after breakfast we will bid adieu to our magnificent journey & transfer to the airport to board the flight for Kolkata / Delhi from where we will connect our flight for home destination.

Tour and Services Ends.

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Reviews

Hi Tanmay,

Just writing a long overdue thank you for a wonderful (but too short!) holiday in India. We were very impressed with your service and all the trouble you went to in order to accommodate our ever changing itinery and had a fantastic holiday as a result. Also myself and Natalia got engaged in Ranthambore Park so some very fond memories.
I also wanted to thank you in particular for the service given by our driver Surendhar (I hope I have the spelling correct). He has a lovely, courteous and relaxed manner and we had fun on even the longest journeys! He was helpful in every little detail and I couldn't praise him highly enough.
We hope to return to India very soon and if we are arranging any tours yours is the first number we will call,
Cheers, Austin (U.K)

Dear Anil

Apologies for not replying to your earlier email.
My wife and I had a superb holiday in India. The sights and sounds will remain in our minds for many years to come (or at least until we return for another visit). I didn't appreciate how bespoke a tour you provide until actually arriving in India which was very reassuring.
The organisation was excellent and if permitted I would compliment the following people;
Sanjay the driver - superb ambassader really caring and friendly.
Bhim Singh Rana (Bharatpur bird park) & Surya Kant Paliwal (Jaipur) both guides were so passionate and informative on their part of the tour.
Hopefully when I revisit your country if I include Jaipur & Bharatpur in that visit then they would be my choice if guide.

The selection of hotels was good. My only critism would be the first hotel we stayed at on arrival in New Delhi - The Parkland. Being dropped off at a hotel which had only limited facilities, in a part of a city which had not "tourist" facilities - restaurants / shops etc (in fact we had no idea of what part of Delhi we staying in). Possibly the issue of a short introduction to the local area, local map or suggestions on local places of interest. Other than this the accommodation was OK.

I would recommend your agency to anybody interested in visiting India and will certainly be using your organisation again.
Thank you and your colleagues for all your assistance.

Best regards
Graham (U.k)

Dear Tanmay,

I would like to thank you for having arranged our one week Corbett trip and 2 night Delhi stay, you understood my requirement perfectly and provided a perfect holiday. The Traveller Van helped us not feel the strain of a 300 Km Journey from Delhi to Corbett, Infinity resort was comfortable at the same time rustic and not overly luxurious helping us get the perfect Jungle feel, the Jeep Safaris were always on time (05:45 AM!!) and very professional, the fishing safari was an experience in itself though the 2.5 Km mountain trek to reach the fishing beats was not anticipated and hence caused some worry to my elderly parents but in all fairness they enjoyed the experience. I would suggest though that you suggest a stay in Bijrani Forest rest house for the serious wildlife enthusiasts as they get an extra 15-20 minutes before park closes increasing chances of a tiger sighting, we did see the Tiger and enjoyed the experience.

I would definitely recommend your services.
Regards,
Naveed Naqshbandi Dubai, UAE.

To Tanmay Sharma

Just back home after 3 weeks in India. We want to tell you, that we had a wonderfull trip. Everything in your arrangement worked perferctly. Our driver, Kundan Singh, was great. We allways felt safe in his car, and he was allways there for us. On top of this he was good company, important when you spend so much time together. If you want to do something for him, let him learn a little more english. We could easily communicate, but often he needed more words. The birding guide, Nirankar Singh Yadav, was also very good. Qualified and nice to spend 10 days with. If other birdwatchers ask for a guide in that area, use him again. Thanks for your flexibility when we had bad weather in Pangoot. Camp River Wild is a great place, beautiful surroundings and a very good staff.
Birdwatchers often make a report of their trips. Others read it on the internet when planning their trips. We will definitely recommend your company and the driver as well as the birding guide in our report.

Best wishes and many thanks
Tina and Mads Elley

Hi Anil

We are now home from our trip to India and I thought I would give you a little feedback on our time at Corbett National Park.

Firstly, we loved the park and we managed to get a tiger sighting which was amazing so we felt really lucky to be fortunate enough to see one. Our driver was great and Dikhala was definitely the best place to stay to get the most from the wildlife. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and would definitely return.

Thank you for all of your help in arranging the tour and like I say we did thoroughly enjoy our time there.

Many Thanks,
Alex Fredrickson

Hi Anil

I don't even know how to begin this mail.

Planning such a trip was a dream that I have been dreaming for more than 10 years, since I last traveled in India.

It took time and lots of effort, and finally it took form and shape, and I did it!!!

My enjoyment and satisfaction had exceeded my expectations, and I left India with a wonderful taste and a desire to do it again!!

It would not have been so successful without your skillful trip production. Every place you booked for us was excellent. From

Bandhavgarh, to Kanha, from Pench to Agra, it was all super good. Accommodation, food, transport, guides, you have chosen the best for me, and I am thankful.

The first thing I told my wife when I came back was that we are going to do it again soon, the two of us.

Let me promise you this, if you are still with "Wildlife Tours India" when I paln my second round, I would like you to organize it again for me.

It was perfect!!

Sincerely
Aviad Horev

Hi Anil

Thank you very much for everything during our recent trip to India. You did a terrific job making all of our arrangements and making adjustments whenever they were required. It could have been extremely stressful on our end, dealing with numerous flight delays and unexpected weather conditions, but it wasn't at all, because you took care of everything. weI have already had someone ask me about traveling to India, and we are planning on giving him your information. we can recommend your company highly enough.

Thanks once again for everything. Should we find ourselves in India once again, we will definitely turn to you.

All the best ,
Fred, Robert and Charles

Hi Anil

Thank you for the services, i will certainly pass on and recommend your services.

Lee Smith

Hi

Toni and I just wanted to pass on our thanks for the organization of the trip. We had a great time.

Best regards,
Debi Brunning & Toni Fleming

Hi Anil,

I just want to give some feedback on the service that you provided.

I would like to say a huge thank you for everything that you arranged for us. The two tours were also excellent. We really enjoyed our day. we will have to come back.

We will be recommending your company to our friends and colleagues.

Best regards,
Janet Newman-Carty

Hello Anil

How are you doing? I had a great time visiting your country these past few weeks!

Best regards,
David Lee-Sue

Hi Anil

And thanks again of the great work you did as a successful photo safari!

We will be looking for the new dates and forms now for the future.

I will come back when I do have better idea about further programs and dates. Kanha and Bandhavgarh are very good, but we will need to find then some hopefully little different place to be included.

Best regards,
Jouni Klinga

Essential Information

Visa

You Need to have Indian Visa for entry to India on your holiday. To apply for Indian Visa you have to contact your nearest Indian consulate or you can call on 09057570045 or visit http://in.vfsglobal.co.uk/ for more information.

Indian Embassy in London
Address : Indian Embassy
India House, Aldwych,
London WC2B 4NA.
Tel: 020 7836 8484
Site URL : http://www.hcilondon.net/

Money

There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that visitors can bring.

Banks

Banks are open in the major cities & the nearest towns of the sanctuaries for transaction from 10.00 to 14.00 hrs on all days except Sunday.

Best time to visit

High season: October to April.

Travel wear

Cotton outfits, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion etc. Some woolen clothes require, during winter.

Round the year temperature chart for the Cities & wildlife parks covered in during the Itinerary.

Credit cards

Main hotels, restaurants and shopping centers honor major credit cards.

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Drugs

Heavy punishments including imprisonment are imposed for possession of narcotic drugs.

Food

All standard restaurants offer a variety of cuisines including Continental, Chinese, Indian & local.

Water

It is always better to drink bottled drinking water or drinking water from restaurants. It is not advisable to drink water from slow moving streams, lakes or dams. Mineral water is available in sealed bottles.

FAQs

May I ask for tailor-made itinerary?

Yes, you can ask for it.

What is Indian Time zone?

t is + 0530 GMT

Can I use British pound there in India?

No, you can't use British pound in India directly, you need to change it through bank or authorize money changer into Indian Rupees (INR).

What type of plug sockets use in India?

Please look at the photograph for better idea.
Voltage: 230-240V Frequency (Hz): 50Hz

Who will meet us at the Airport?

Our company representative will be there at the airport arrival lounge carrying a company placard mentioning your name on it.

Does entry fees to the national parks are included in the cost?

Yes, entry fee to all the national parks is included with the cost.

Does monument fees for cities included in the cost?

No, it's not included in the package cost it will as per actual if there are any in the itinerary.

What is the maximum weight allowed on domestic flights?

The normal weight limit is 15 -25 kilogram's.

Is communication to home possible while on wildlife tour?

Yes almost all the wildlife resorts will have the dialing facilities except the few, like in north east India.

What is the weather & temperature like?

Weather in the Indian jungle will be very much pleasant during winter time as the Sun is gradually up, but generally it will quite cold in the morning while you are on your jungle safari.

Which Vaccination is required before visiting India?

The citizens and travelers coming from the United Kingdom, Canada & United States, do not require any vaccination certificate or inoculations. It is highly recommended to get a precautionary measure vaccination against Hepatitis B & carry mosquito repellents, nets or take a course of anti Malaria tablets to avoid Malaria.

What should I carry?

Cool cottons for daywear, Light woolens for the morning & evenings (a warm jacket is required for morning safari as it will be chilling), a couple of pairs of shoes, shorts, sunglasses, anti sun tanning lotion, good Binocular & Camera with a couple of batteries.

What are the major wildlife species, inhabiting in Indian wildlife?

India is well known for a large extent of its tigers, elephants and rhinoceroses, but these are just three giant of the more than 500 species of mammals living in the country. India is blessed with over 2000's species and sub-species of birds. India offers a number of National parks and sanctuaries where you can watch the magnificent tigers, the stately elephants, leopards, the one horned rhinos, a myriad of exotic birds and countless reptiles and insects.

Can we have an Elephant safari during our wildlife tour ?

Elephants are the most preferred and convenient way of watching wildlife species in their natural habitat. It is very much possible in most of the tropical wildlife sanctuaries of India like, Corbett, Raja ji, Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Panna, Pench & Kaziranga National Park.

What is the present status of tigers in India?

India has twenty seven Tiger Reserves which comes under the organization of Project Tiger, a joint effort of the Government of India and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). As per the current census there are tiger population will as per below table.

Wildlife Watching Tips

If you're serious about observing wildlife there are a few things you can do to enhance your experience and bring you even closer to nature.

1) nce you've planned your trip, visit your local bookshop, library or go on the internet to find a wildlife guide for the area you intend visiting. This will give you the best idea of the kinds of plants and animals you can expect to see.

2) Always take services of a local and experienced naturalist/guide who knows the area better. There is nothing better than local knowledge when it comes to spotting wildlife.

3) Wild animals have their distinct daily and seasonal patterns of activities. a baisc knowledge of these patterns increases one's chances of seeing them. The frequency of wildlife sightings in national parks and reserves varies, depending on the time of year.In India the best times are from February to May,during these months the trees are often bare, so visibility is considerably improved. Since there is also a general scarcity of water, the animals concentrate near sources of water.

4) Many animals have an amazingly alert sense of sight which helps them survive in the wild. To get close takes a great degree of patience and time but you can increase your chances by wearing natural or neutral colours that blend into your surroundings. Keep your movements to a minimum and when you do move, do it slowly and quietly.

5) Animals are very wary of the human voice. So, in order to get close to them, absolute silence is essential. Walk softly and watch where you're placing your feet so as not to snap branches or twigs or create other noise as you make your approach. Even if you have to take a less direct route, avoid walking through dense undergrowth as the animal is more likely to hear you and run away. Avoid carrying any metal objects in your pockets which will make noise. This includes things like car keys and loose change.

6) A highly attuned sense of smell is one of the key aspects for many species of wildlife to detect where food is or, indeed, even prey. It is, for many, the most important of their senses in their battle for survival. Don't wear any aftershave or perfume and avoid scented soaps and deodorants. There are plenty of environmentally friendly non-scented soaps and toiletries on the market from specialist camping stores. Although you may baulk at this suggestion, wear your clothes for several days if you're really serious about wildlife spotting. The more you wear your clothes outdoors, the more the fabrics will absorb natural outdoors scents and smells. Always be aware of the wind direction and make sure that the direction in which you approach an animal is where the wind is blowing towards you. If it's blowing away from you, animals can detect your scent from many hundreds of yards away.

7) It shouldn't be important to get too close up to an animal to enjoy the experience and, in some instances, if you do get too near, it can even be dangerous and sometimes life-threatening. Binoculars can keep you at a safe distance from your quarry and means they are less likely to run away. Also, binoculars are the only way to view nesting birds or other forms of young wildlife. You should never get too close to a burrow, a nest or animals out and about with their young.

A magnifying glass will also come in handy if you're interested in examining insects and smaller wildlife alongside plants, flowers etc.

Following these tips and advice will ensure that your experience will be heightened as you marvel at all the wildlife and nature you've witnessed.