Amboli Ghat - Biodiversity Hotspot (31st July to 2nd Aug'09)

Bookings for Amboli Ghat trip from 31st July to 2nd Aug 2009 are open...for details see at the end..... Hurry up and register fast as this trip is eagerly awaited by many...
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Ever heard of " Maharashtra's Cheerapunji”...the wettest place in our state? The hottest biodiversity region in Maharashtra? The cleanest and the quietest hill station near us?..... Come with Nature India & explore this amazing place called Amboli Ghat…… the dream destination of all the naturalists and which is at its Best in Monsoon.....Great walks, beautiful scenery, loads of biodiversity to look for, waterfalls, balmy climate and local delectable Konkani food…perfect menu set for a short holiday. (Above image: Copyright. Mr.Ajay Bijoor)

Amboli Ghat......Nestled comfortably in the midst of luxuriant foliage on the Sahyadri Mountains in southern tip of Maharashtra and perched at a height of 710m above sea level it is relatively tranquil and uncluttered by commercialization and unfolds a charisma that appeals to the heart and the soul. This hill station in Sindhudurg district is said to be the wettest in Maharashtra, receiving the highest rainfall (approx.7446 mm) during the rainy season.

Colonel Westrop, who was a British political agent, developed Amboli as a hill station after the opening of the Ghat Road from the coastal town of Vengurla, now in southern Maharashtra, to Belgaum. Amboli is situated on Vengurla-Belgum state highway no 112 in Sindhudurg district. The population is @ 3000. The main road is lined with shops and small restaurants of all shapes and sizes that form the main bazaar.

Home to innumerable species of animals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and medicinal plants, it has contributed generously to our country’s bio-diversity. The valley, hemmed in at all sides, looks protected, sheltered, unexplored, and holding in its secrets. Dense brown green foliage, roots above and below, intertwined branches, creepers, and moss hanging like an afro-braid from branch after branch. Layers of fog surround us, weaving a shroud of mystery as to what lay ahead. At times the strong winds clear the path before us, unfolding a panoramic view of the scenic valley. The walks to Mahadevgarh, Shirgaonkar & Parikshit Points offer fantastic opportunities to explore these rich forests and also offer spectacular views of valleys below and the Konkan area.

Though Amboli is emerging and is famous as a hill station, not many know that this place is extremely rich in Herpatofauna, wildflowers and birds. Home to myriad species of Amphibians, Amboli is a must visit place in monsoon for all the nature enthusiasts.The star attraction here are the wonderful array of reptiles that includes Malabar Pit Viper, Green Keel Back, Banded Racer, Olive Forest Snake, Beddome's Keelback Snake, Green vine Snakes, Shield tail snakes, Deccan-banded Gecko etc. While in Ambhibians, the Malabar Gliding Frog (Rhacophorus malabaricus), Amboli tree frog (Philautus amboli), Wrinkled frog (Nyctibatrachus humayuni), Koyna Toad (Bufo koynayensis), Beddome's burrowing frog, Criket frog, Fungoid frog and the Caecilians will take your breath away.

Amboli is also a hot spot for the variety of wildflowers that bloom in monsoon on sadas (the local name for lateritic plateau). It is also a heaven for wildflower enthusiasts with some rare plants recorded here.

The Birds, though difficult to see in monsoon is well represented with Scarlet Minivets, Puff-throated Babblers, Brown-cheeked Fulvettas, Red-whiskered & Yellow-browed Bulbuls, Crimson & Crimson-backed Sunbirds, Leafbirds and many of the Western Ghat endemics.

Beautiful insect life dominate the surroundings with all sorts of bettles, bugs, lantern flies, butterflies, moths, spiders and what not. Surely, this is one place which you wont like to miss.

Four kilometers away, the river Hiranyakeshi originates from a cave adjacent to a temple of Goddess Parvati at the foot of a mountain. Water rushes out with tremendous force to fall into a squarish tank or ‘Kund’, from where it flows out. Opposite, an old tree offers ample space around its roots to urge devotees to meditate without disturbance

To know more about Amboli Click here…….

http://www.amboliww.com/aboutamboli.html

http://www.sahyaadri.com/info/articles.php?art_id=81&start=1

http://www.blonnet.com/2005/07/07/stories/2005070700391800.htm

There is one excellent blog on a typical amboli herpatofauna trip here…

http://prachigalange.blogspot.com/2008/11/visit-to-amboli-ghat-and-malvan.html

Some interesting places around Amboli :

There are several trails and points to be explored in Amboli …some of them are

1) Mahadevgad (3 kms)

2) Manohargad- Manasantoshgad point

3) Shirgaonkar point (5 kms)

4) Kalvesad Point (10 kms)

5) Parikshit Point (3 kms)

6) Hiranyakeshi (4 kms)

7) Nagartas Waterfall

8) Sunset Point (2 kms)

(Above images: the Beautiful wooden craft and "Ganjifa" art of Sawantwadi)
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Nature India tours has meticulously organized a Herpatofauna trip to this bio-diversity hotspot from 31^st July to 2^nd Aug'09 (travel days excluded) with eminent experts in the field.

TRAVEL & STAY ITINERARY. (Ex.Sawantwadi )

Though the Camp will be focused on Herpatofauna and to learn more about them, we will also try to look for and learn about everything that we come across including Wildflowers, Birds, Mammals ….

Date: 31st July 2009, morning 10.30 am to 2nd Aug 2009 eve 6.30 pm

Resource person: Mr.Shashank Dalvi / Mr. Hemant Ogale (The local expert & Founder member of Malabar Conservation Club)
Assistant resource persons: Mr.Mandar Khadilkar & Mr. Adesh Shivkar

TRIP ITINERARY (iterinary is Ex.Mumbai)

Day 1: Thursday 30^th July, 2009

Departure from Mumbai by 0111 Konkan Kanya Exp. - 11.05PM from CSTM

Day 2: Friday 31^st July, 2009

Arrival at Sawantwadi Station at 10.00 am .… Drive to Hotel Whistling Woods in autos…. Check-in….. lunch…….Mini nature trail in Amboli Ghat…return to hotel by evening ...rest… dinner… night trail to Shirgaonkar point

Day 3: Saturday 01^st August, 2009

Morning visit to Parikshit point…lunch….Talk by Mr.Hemant Ogale on the Conservation activities of Malabar Conservation Club…..late evening trail to Mahadevgad…dinner.... night trail near the campus

Day 4: Sunday, 02^nd August, 2009

Morning visit to Shirgaonkar Point…..proceed to see Hiranyakeshi temple before Lunch…..visit to famous Sawantwadi wooden toy factory…..catch 0112 Konkan Kanya exp. At 06.22pm from Sawantwadi

Day 5: Monday 03^rd August, 2009

Early morning arrive in Mumbai by 5.30 am

More details on the Itinerary will be given to those who register.....

Trip Charges : Rs./- Ex. Sawantwadi (This includes stay in Hotel Whistling Woods on triple sharing basis, Veg / non-veg food in nearby restaurant, breakfast, tea, local transport by autos, wherever needed, entry fees, guide charges, Articles on the places to be visited & on board snacks ……)

This does not include travel charges from Mumbai and Back or any charges other than the above.

Kindly note that there are several travel options available (given below) to reach Sawantwadi, but the best one is Konkan-Kanya express that leaves Mumbai on thrusday 11.05 pm and arrives Sawantwadi at 10.30 am friday.

If registered early, then Nature India can assist with your Travel bookings (subject to the availability of tickets)..... so register fast.

Travel options to reach Amboli:
By Road:
Mumbai (549 km/ 10 hrs), Pune (390 km/ 8 hrs) Kolhapur (110 km/ 3 hrs). and Belgaum (64 km/ 2 hrs)....State Transport buses ply from here
There are also regular AC buses (some Volvos) from Mumbai to Sawantwadi

By Rail:
Sawantwadi at 28 km away is the closest railhead on Konkan Railway.

By Air :
Nearest airport is Belgaum, 64 kms. And Goa at 80 kms.

Stay Arrangement: In Whistling Woods on triple sharing basis.The Hotel campus is wonderful and the rooms are spacious with clean bathrooms.

to see the interiors click http://www.amboliww.com/

Food : Since meals are not served in the Hotel, we will relish the delicious food (including the famous "Sol Kadi" :-) in a good restaurant just a few meters from our hotel.

Registration: You can register by sending a confirmatory mail to natureindiatours@gmail.com and by paying a non refundable advance of Rs.2500/-…..

Mode of Payment: You can either...

1) Transfer the advance money directly to ICICI A/c : (please call Mr. Mandar Khadilkar for the A/c no.) .... please mention your name, date and other details….

2) Courier a cheque of Rs.2500/- to the following address
Name: Mr. Mandar Khadilkar
Address: B/702, Neha Apartments, Ashish Complex, Chh. Shivaji Cross Road, No.4, Dahisar - East, Mumbai - 400068
Ph.: 9967518665

Please Note:
1) Once registered, the advance amount of Rs. 2500/- is strictly non-refundable
2) Alcohol & Smoking is strictly prohibited on Nature India Tours
3) We expect heavy rain throughout, hence will need to brave the rains during the trails.....please bring all the rain wears
4) Hot water facility will be available all day
5) A torch and water bottle is compulsory

Please contact, in case you need any clarification …..

For any other queries, please contact:-
Adesh Shivkar – 9820455713 / 9321463362
Mandar Khadilkar - 9967518665
Or Email: natureindiatours@gmail.com

Hope to see you for this wonderful trip !!

Thanks for your patience.

Warm Regards,

Adesh Shivkar & Mandar Khadilkar

Nature India

Appreciate, Respect & Care for Nature

Phansad WLS - Summer Retreat Camp (15th to 17th May'09)

Bookings for the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary 'Summer Retreat Camp" from 15th to 17th May 2009 are on..for details see at the end.

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Summer is at its peak in May. Normally we think, this not a good period for watching Avifauna. But that’s not true. Don’t believe? Then come an explore the wonders of Bird watching and visit the “heaven for reptiles and insects”.......

Nature India organizes a "Summer Retreat Camp" to Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary from 15th May to 17th May 2009.

During summer, most of our resident birds are busy with their breeding activities. They are vocal and active. The Nightjar’s are seen at their best during this time, so as the Crested Tree Swifts, Parakeets, Blue-faced Malkoha’s, Honey Buzzard, Black Eagle, Vultures (these have a nesting colony inside the sanctuary), Owls, Orioles, Green Pigeons, Babblers, Pipits, Larks etc to name a few..... It is during this time that Phansad is full of life.

Phansad is a semi-evergreen / mixed deciduous forest that is located approximately 145 Kms from Mumbai (Sion) and about 42 kms from the town of Alibaug. The Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is an amazing revelation. Primarily a bird sanctuary, it is also home to a whole array of insects, amphibians and mammals. Spread across 52.71 sq. km., Phansad is located in the Murud and Roha talukas of Raigad District in Maharashtra.

The gentle hills of this protected area are located between the northern Sahyadri range and the western coast of India. Though these hills are not directly connected to the main Western Ghats range, the species found here are quite similar. The forest is mainly moist teak, southern moist mixed deciduous forest and west coast semi-evergreen. Ain, teak, kinjal, dhavada, jamba, hirda are some of the main species found here. Mango and ficus are found along the stream and the huge pods of the giant Lianas-Entada (rightmost image) are present everywhere. There is also a patch of mangrove vegetation to the southwest. A number of endemic flora and fauna species are found here including the Malabar Giant Squirrel, Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-bellied Blue flycatcher etc.

Barking deer, sambar and leopard are also found in this coastal woodland ecosystem. Insect-lovers will enjoy discovering the varied species on offer. Phansad's star attraction is, of course, the beautiful giant Indian squirrel but this arboreal animal is shy and wary and not so easy to discover. If one is really lucky, you can watch one slide down a tree before it slips away into the dense undergrowth. This is definitely a birding paradise with a number of species including the Black Eagle, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Green Imperial & Pompadour Green Pigeon, Yellow Footed Green Pigeon, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, White-rumped Shama (above right), Black Drongo, Shikra, Changable Hawk Eagle, iora, Brown Fish Owl, Jungle Owlet, Plum-headed Parakeet, Common Wood Shrike, Black-hooded Oriole (below right), Paddy field Pipit and Blue-faced Billed Malkoha found here. About 71 butterfly species such as southern birdwing, the tiny pale grass- blue, the large blue mormon, painted lady, spot sword tail and common map can be seen here. An ideal time to observe them is the morning when they bask in the sun.

The rulers of the janjira state had preserved this forest as a hunting reserve. After years of exploitation and degradation, it was declared a sanctuary in 1986. The ruins of the Siddi Nawab's bungalow at Kesauli offers a splendid view of the Kashid beach. A temple of the Dhawir Vardhini who is revered by the Aajri tribals is located inside the reserve. Winter is the best time to visit the park for bird and animal sightings. Explore this sanctuary and take in the fresh earthy smell of the jungle air... enjoy the sight of birds and butterflies and a whole variety of insects and amphibians. Phansad is a wilderness not frequented by too many people and the forest reflects this with its green vistas and varied wildlife that will tempt you to stay back.

Not just birds, but Phansad Wildlife sanctuary is a heaven for insects and reptile enthusiasts. You cannot miss the excellently camouflaging Green vine snake (below right) and the Bamboo Pit vipers (below right) or may even come across the elusive Brown vine snake. The snakes are found is such abundance that it is easy to come across 5-10 snakes in a single trail. Phansad is also famous for the scorpions and Gaint Tarantula spiders..... and the butterfly variety is awesome here. The enigmatic Monkey puzzel butterfly (above left) or an Oakleaf is not uncommon and if you are lucky then you may also get to see the rare Map butterfly.

These are just glimpses of what Phansad has to offer...... This forest is mystical, sometimes casting the spell of eire silence and sometimes with its liveliness. Even the night trails here are vibrant and thrilling...... The experience one takes home is something to cherish for a long time.

TRAVEL & STAY ITINERARY.
Though the Camp will be focused on Bird-watching and to learn more about them, we will also try to look for and learn about insects and reptiles ….

Date: 15th May 2009, morning 6.30 am to 17th May 2009 eve 7.30 pm

Resource person: Mr.Mandar Khadilkar / Mr. Adesh Shivkar

Mode of Travel : By launch upto Alibaug and back, and by six seater autos from Alibaug to Phansad and back.

TRIP ITINERARY

1) Friday 15th May, 2009 : Depart from Gateway of India by launch at 6.30AM….. brief sea bird watching on the way ..…… Catch Bus from Mandwa to Alibaug…..have breakfast ….. Reach Phansad Wildlife Sactuary in six seater autos…. Small bird watching session at periphery of the park….. Delicious lunch…..Evening bird watching….. Enjoy the home cooked dinner…….Early night a small walk around the park for reptiles and snakes…………

2) Saturday 16th May, 2009: Start early morning at 6.30 am for bird-watching at Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary…….Lunch and nature games...... Visit the Grassland patches and Waterholes (Gunyacha Maal, Chikhalgaan & Phansadgaan) ……Dinner..... Night Trail ..... Camp Fire & Activities

3) Sunday 17th May, 2009: Start early morning at 6.30 am ….visit the Periphery of forests and the “Sacred Groves” for Birdwatching ……Proceed to “Therunda Village” to have a glimpse of a skeleton of “Whale”…….Lunch in Alibaug ….. proceed to Mumbai (Gateway of India) by launch……. Reach Gateway of India by 7.30 pm.

Please note that camp fire's doesn’t essentially mean use of fire.... Nature India discourages the burning of fire-wood in a wooded area..... It is the activities, debates, gossip et al that makes up the essence of a Camp fire :-)

More details on the Itinerary will be given to those who register.....

Very Important Note: The facilities in this camp are extremely basic, with tented accomodation on a sharing basis (5-7 people in one tent) , common toilets (separate for men & women), simple vegetarian food and local public transport where-ever applicable...... this camp also involves considerable walking every day........it is a typical Junglee camp with campfires and games et al:-))

Trip Charges : Rs.2700/- (This includes stay in basic tents on sharing basis, simple home cooked veg. food, breakfast, tea, public transport by launch and 6 seater autos, entry fees, guide charges, Articles on the places to be visited & on board snacks and water……)

This does not include any charges other than the above.

Stay Arrangement: In forest department tents. 5 persons in one tent with separate, clean toilets for Men and Women.

Food : Home cooked vegetarian food will be served.

Transport : Local Public transport

Registration: You can register by sending a confirmatory mail to natureindiatours@gmail.com and by paying a non refundable full advance of Rs.2700/-…..

Mode of Payment: You can either...

1) Transfer the advance money directly to HDFC A/c : (please call for the A/c no.) .... please mention your name, date and other details….

2) Courier a cheque of Rs.2700/- to my address
Name: Mr. Mandar Khadilkar
Address: B/702, Neha Apartments, Ashish Complex, Chh. Shivaji Cross Road, No.4, Dahisar - East, Mumbai - 400068
Ph.: 9967518665

Please Note:
1) Once registered, the advance amount of Rs. 2700/- is strictly non-refundable
2) Alcohol & Smoking is strictly prohibited on Nature India Tours
3) Participants are required to bring their own sleeping bags / matts / bedding
4) No hot water facility will be available
50 A torch and water bottle is compulsary

Please contact, in case you need any clarification …..

For any other queries, please contact:-
Adesh Shivkar – 9820455713 / 9321463362
Mandar Khadilkar - 9967518665
Or Email: natureindiatours@gmail.com

Hope to see you for this wonderful trip !!

Thanks for your patience.

Warm Regards,

Mandar Khadilkar

Nature India

Appreciate, Respect & Care for Nature

TADOBA - ANDHARI TIGER RESERVE (22nd to 26th April'09)

Dates are re-scheduled to : 22nd April, 2009 to 26th April, 2009 (including travel days)

The bookings for Tadoba - Andhari Tiger Reserve trip is on…..book your seats now (see the details at the end).....

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There was this small waterhole called “Katezhari”, where our jeep was stationed one early morning, when we suddenly heard the alarm calls of atleast 2 Barking deers coming from the north-west valley…..as minutes passed, the calls seemed closer and were with more intensity, surely the Big cat was coming towards the waterhole....Meanwhile another contrasting drama was unfolding in front of us .....a Brown fish-Owl was coolly hunting the myriad frogs from the pool; a superb male Paradise flycatcher was bathing leisurely wetting his dangling long ribbon-like tail streamers. An Indian Pitta was rummaging amongst the forest litter near-by, unmindful of the approaching alarm calls …..The atmosphere was both thrilling, chilling and happening.....our anticipation was at its peak……. We were experiencing this right inside the heart of Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR)……..

Tadoba National Park is situated in the district of Chandrapur in the north-eastern part of Maharashtra, often referred to as “The Jewel of Vidarbha”. It is the oldest national park of the State of Maharahtra and since 1995, a Project Tiger Reserve. It derives its name from the local God, "Taru". The legend goes that the village chief "Taru" was killed in an epic fight with the tiger. He is worshipped by all the local villagers as the deity of "Tadoba".

Tadoba-andhari Tiger reserve was established in 1995. The area of the Reserve is 625.40 sq. km. This includes Tadoba National Park, created in 1955 with an area of 116.55 sq. km. and andhari Wildlife Sanctuary created in 1986 with an area of 508.85 sq. km. Thickly clad hills form the northern and western boundary of the Tiger Reserve. To the southwest is a huge lake which acts as a buffer between the park's forest and the extensive farmland which extends up toIrai Lake.

A marvelous site for the wild life enthusiasts, Tadoba has rich collections of flora and fauna. Tiger, Panther and Wild dogs are the major carnivores in this area which feed on the herbivores. Sambar is the most preferred food of the Tiger and Chital comes second in preference. Wild boars and Gaurs are also hunted by the Tiger. Panther hunts common langur, female chital, Sambar fawns, Wild boar etc. Wild dogs hunt in packs feed on Wild boar, Chital, Sambar. Sloth bear is an omnivorous animal that feeds on fruits of mango, jamun, bel, tendu, mahuwa flowers, honey and termites. The common herbivores like Chital, Sambar, Gaur, Chausinga feed on Grasses, young shoots and leaves of Bamboo and other species like Ghoti, Apta, Ber, Khair and fruits of many species. There are 29 natural saltlicks in the Tiger Reserve.

The mesmerizing trails of Tadoba could be a treasured experience of a lifetime.

Flora : The land vegetation according to Champion and Seth's classification belongs to the sub group Southern tropical Dry Deciduous Forest with teak as dominant species. The main associates of teak are Ain, Bija, Dhauda, Haldu, Salai, Semal, Tendu and Bamboo. Almost 40% area is covered with bamboo. Trees of Jamun, Mango, Arjun are found in the moist area.

Fauna : Mammals - Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Gaur or Indian Bison, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Wild Boar, Four-Horned Antelope, Wild Dog , Langoor, Nilgai, Marsh Crocodile are commonly sighted in the Tiger Reserve by the tourists.Ratel, Flying Squirrel, Palm Civet, Indian Civet, Leopard Cat, Rusty Spotted Cat, Pangolin and Jackal are also reported.

Fauna : Birds - Oriental Honey & White-eyed Buzzard, Indian Pitta, Paradise Flycatcher, Indian Roller, Orange-headed Ground Thrush, Common Hawk Cuckoo, Changeable Hawk eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Savana Nightjar, Painted Sandgrouse, Black-hooded Oriole, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Yellow-footed Green Pigeon, Monarch Flycatcher, racket-tailed and White-bellied Drongo, Large Cuckooshrike, Oriental White eye, grey Hornbill, Grey Jungle-fowl, Golden Oriole, Large green barbet.

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Area : 625 sq. Kms.
Place : Chandrapur district, Maharashtra
Best season : November to June, of which February to May is the best time to visit
Nearest Town : Chandrapur (45km)
Entry : Open on all days except Tuesdays
Park Timings : 6.00 am to 11.00 am and 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm.
Monsoon : 140 cm
Climate : Hot & Dry

Click here to see one of my old reports

http://addithebirde.blogspot.com/2004_05_01_archive.html

Click here to get detailed information of Tadoba National Park…..
http://projecttiger.nic.in/tadoba.htm

http://www.tigersofindia.com/tiger-reserves-of-india/tadoba-andheri-maharastra.php

http://www.indian-wildlife.com/tadobasanctuary.htm

Travel Iterinary

Day 1 (Wednesday 22nd April'09) : Board the 15:00 Hrs Sevagram Express from Mumbai CST to Chandrapur

Day 2 (Thursday 23rd April'09) : Reach Chandrapur at 10:00 Hrs – Proceed to MTDC resort, Moharli gate, Tadoba at 11:00 hrs – Lunch - Evening Safari (3 pm to 7 pm) - Before dinner, talk / presentationon on "Birds of Tadoba National Park" - Night halt in MTDC resort

Day 3 (Friday 24th April'09) : Morning Safari (6am to 11 am) – Return for Lunch – Rest - Evening safari (3 pm to 7 pm) – Before dinner talk / presentation on "Identifying Raptors" -Dinner - Night Stay in MTDC

Day 4 (Saturday 25th April'09): Morning Safari (6 am to 11 am) – Return for Lunch – Birdwatching around the lake overlooking the MTDC Resort – Proceed to Chandrapur station to board the BPQ CSTM Passenger Train to Mumbai at 17:25

Day 5 (Sunday 26th April'09) : Reach Mumbai CST by 12:00 Noon

Trip charges : Rs.5800/- (Includes Non- A/C room stay on Triple Sharing Basis in MTDC Resort, 1 kms from Moharli Gate, Local travel by 4x4 open jeeps, Total 4 Safaris inside the park, Veg. meals, Breakfast, Fruits, Park Permits, Park entry charges, Guide charges, Information articles & on board snacks and mineral water)…….This does not include Travel charges from Mumbai-Chandrapur-Mumbai or any charges other than the above. However, Assistance for train booking will be given ....

Registration: You can register by sending a confirmation mail to natureindiatours@gmail.com with contact details and by paying a non refundable Advance of Rs.3000/- …..The remaining amount will be collected on the day of travel.

Kindly register soon to avoid the rush for train bookings……….

Group Size: Max 13 Pax only

Stay Arrangement: MTDC Resort, 1 kms from Moharli Gate, Tadoba on a triple sharing basis. This resort overlooks a large lake, an excellent place to spend your time watching birds while you take your afternoon siesta….

Resource Persons: Mr.Adesh Shivkar & Mr.Shalik Jogwe (local expert of TATR)



Mode of Payment: You can either

1) Transfer the advance money directly to my HDFC A/c (Please send a mail for details).. please mention your name, date and other details….

2) Courier a cheque of Rs.3000/- as advance amount to the following address
Name: Mr.Adesh Shivkar
Address: D/8, The Adi Janata Society, Behind HP Petrolpump, Opp. Hotel Shangrila, Sion(East), Mumbai-400022

Please Note:
1) Once registered, the advance amount of Rs. 3000/- is strictly non-refundable
2) Alcohol & Smoking is strictly prohibited on Nature India Ecotours

3) The afternoon weather in April is Very Hot in tadoba......

Please revert on natureindiatours@gmail.com ID, in case you need any clarification …..For any other queries I am available on 9321463362 or 9820455713

Thanks for your patience.
Looking forward for a very rewarding trip with you all !!

Warm Regards,
Adesh Shivkar
Nature India
Appreciate, Respect and Conserve

Corbett - Wildlifer's Paradise-22nd to 28th March'09

Dates: 22^nd March, 2009 to 28^th March, 2009 The bookings for Corbett National Park Wildlife trip is on…..book your seats now (see the details at the end).....

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Imagine a Park with over 550 species of Birds (That’s an astounding 1/3^rd of the total species of birds found in India), more than 50 mammal species including Tiger, Leopard, Bears and Elephants and more than 40 species of reptiles including the rare Gharial …… Where the terai grasslands are surrounded by the tall Sal trees nestled in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas in the rugged “Shivalik hills’ …… It’s a sheer wild poetry in front of you. One of the finest Wildlife reserves in India, Corbett has a distinction of been the country's first National park. Formerly called as “Hailey national Park” it was established in 1936 in consultation with the legendary Hunter / Naturalist Jim Corbett…… it was aptly renamed “Jim Corbett National Park” in 1972.

In 1972, PROJECT TIGER the most prestigious and biggest total environmental conservation project ever was launched in India. The Jim Corbett National Park has another distinction of having been chosen the venue for the inauguration of this project.

With its impressive list of wildlife species and very well managed wildlife tourism, Corbett is renowned as one of the best National Parks in the world. It boosts of a very healthy populations of Tigers, Elephants, Gharials, Otters, Swamp Deers, King Cobras, Birds and variety of vegetation. Just Google the word Corbett National Park and you will get a hint of its popularity :-)

The park spans across some 920.9 square km with a core area of about 520 Sq.kms at an altitude of 600 to 1100 metres about the foothills of the western Himalayas in the districts of Nainital and Pauri Garhwal in the state of Uttaranchal (formerly part of Uttar Pradesh). In its eventful 64-year life, it has grown considerably in size and now includes the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary as a part of its 1,319 sq km of reserved forest area. The terrain includes picturesque hilly ridges covered by Sal trees. Lower down are the grasslands and bamboo growth.

Nature India has organized a meticulously planned and exciting wildlife trip to this paradise from 22nd -28thFebruary 2009 (excluding travel from Mumbai to Delhi & Back). We shall cover the prime spots in Corbett including 3 full Days in Dhikala (the place of action), Sarpduli, Gairal, Garjia, Kanda, Dhikuli, Sambar Road, Kumeria, Kosy Barrage, Mohan (the famous “Mohan Man-eater” fame), Champion Road…… That completes most of the prime locations here. What more, the renowned birder of the region Mr.Manoj Sharma has agreed to take time from his busy schedule to join us.

Please note, that the places selected are the hot spots and there is a high rush to get permits to these places, but we have managed to get this for your maximum gains.

Target Mammal Species: Tiger, Elephants, Leopards, Hog Deer, Sambar, Barking deer, Wild Boar, Yellow throated Martin, Jungle Cat, Fishing Cat, Dhole, Spotted Deers, Otters etc.

Target Bird Species : Ibisbill, Green Magpie, Rosy & Long-tailed Minivets, Red Jungle-fowl, Khaleej Pheasant, Collared Falconet, Hodgson’s Bushchat, Wallcreeper, Great thick-knee, Common Merganser, Brown Fish Owl, Tawny fish Owl, Brown Hawk Owl, Great slaty woodpecker, Green-tailed Sunbird, Himalayan Barbet, Woodpeckers (Great Slaty, Himalayan, Grey-headed, Lesser Yellownape, Greater Yellownape, Grey-capped Pigmy) , River Lapwing, Sand Martins, Russet Sparrows, Orange-breasted Green Pigeons, Eagles (Palla’s Fish, Lesser Fish, Rufous-bellied, Mountain Hawk) , Vultures (Himalayan Griffon, Cinereous, Egyptian, Red-headed Vulture) , Himalayan Griffon Vultures, Bright-headed Cisticola, Siberian & White-tailed Rubythroat, Black francolin, Speckled Piculet, Mallard duck, Red-crested Pochard, Barbets (Himalayan, Lineated, Blue-throated), Oriental Pied & Great Hornbill, Dollar Bird, Crested or Himalayan Kingfisher, Blue-bearded bee-eater, Long-tailed Broadbill, Lesser Coucal, Red-breasted Parakeet, Himalayan Swiftlet, Small Pratincoles, Hen Harrier, Northern Goshawk, Besra, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Great Crested Grebe, Black Stork, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Eurasian Jay, Grey Tree pie, Maroon Oriole, Bar-winged Flycatcher-shrike, Yellow-bellied Fantail, Drongos (Lesser Racket-tailed, Spangled), Brown Dipper, Thrush (Scaly, Dark-throated, Long-billed, Tickel’s, Blue Whistling), Grey-winged Blackbird, Flycatchers (Dark-sided, Rufous-gorgeted, Ultramarine), Small & Rufous-bellied Niltava, Whiskered Yuhina, White-capped Water Redstart, Plumbeous Water Redstart, Forktails, Tree Creepers, Himalayan Bulbuls, Various species of Tits, Nuthaches …….. and an Incredibly Looooonggggg List

I estimate a total of about 166 to 175 species of birds in 5 days or maybe more :-)

Target Reptile Species: Gharial and Marsh Crocodile, Indian Monitor Lizard, Rock Agama, King Cobra etc….

Flora: Corbett National Park is rich in vegetation. The lower reaches of the Park, where the land is flat compared to the upper reaches, consists of tall and slender Sal (Shorea robusta) trees. Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo) and Khair (Acacia katechu) trees are found in the middle reaches, while the upper reaches of the mountains are full of bakli (Anogeissus latifolia), chir (Pinus roxburghii), gurail (Bauhinia racemosa) and bamboo trees. The Park is dotted with lantana shrubs, a species that is a great cause for concern. In Park also boosts of over 33 species of bamboo and grass that are mostly found in chours, or meadows.

Click here to get a detailed information of Corbett National Park…..

http://www.corbettnationalpark.com/about-corbett-park.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Corbett_National_Park

http://www.corbettpark.com/

You can also view Mr.Sumit Sen and Bikram Grewal’s excellent photoblog on their Corbet trip.

http://www.kolkatabirds.com/corbett/corbetttripreport.htm

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Tour Iterinary & Other Details:

22nd March'09: Board 5013 Jim Corbett Park Link Exp from old delhi station leaving 2240 hrs.

23rd Mar'09: Reach Ramnagar at 5.00 am, Drive for 1 Hrs to the camp, Full day birding at Kosi barrage, Garjia, Mohan - Kumeria.

24th Mar'09: Drive to Dhikala via Gairal, Crocodile Pool, Sarpdouli, Champion Road, High Bank, full day game-drive at Dhikala.

25th Mar'09: Full day game-drive at Dhikala, Sambar Road, Dhikuli, Chaurs

26th Mar'09: Full day game-drive at Dhikala, Sarpdauli, checkout from park late evening, check in to camp.

27th Mar'09: Full day birding at Kosi barrage, Garjia, Mohan, Kumeria, Board 5014 Jim Corbett Park Link Exp at 2140 hrs from Ramnagar for old Delhi.

28th Mar'09: Reach old Delhi at 0430 hrs.

Trip charges : Rs._______(Includes Non- A/C room stay on Triple Sharing Basis in Dhikala FRH and Corbett Nature Camp, Ramnagar, Train travel from Delhi to Ramnagar and Back, Local travel by 4x4 jeeps, Veg. meals, Breakfast, Fruits, Park Permits, Park entry charges, Guide charges, Information articles & on board snacks and mineral water)…….

This does not include Travel charges from Mumbai to Delhi and Back or any charges other than the above.

Registration: You can register by sending a confirmation mail to natureindiatours@gmail.com with contact details and by paying a non refundable Advance of Rs._______…..The remaining amount will be collected on the day of travel.

Kindly register soon to avoid the rush for train bookings……….

Group Size: Max 12 Pax only

Stay Arrangement: Dhikala Forest Camp (It is actually a resort) inside Corbett N.P.and Corbett Nature Camp, Ramnagar on a triple sharing basis. Both the stays are amazing……. (see below image)

Resource Persons: Mr.Adesh Shivkar & Mr.Manoj Sharma

Mode of Payment: You can either
1) Transfer the advance money directly to my HDFC A/c (Please send a mail for details).. please mention your name, date and other details….
2) Courier a cheque of Rs._______ as advance amount to the following address

Name: Mr.Adesh Shivkar

Address: D/8, The Adi Janata Society, Behind HP Petrolpump, Opp. Hotel Shangrila, Sion(East), Mumbai-400022

Please Note:

1) Once registered, the advance amount of Rs. _______ is strictly non-refundable

2) Alcohol & Smoking is strictly prohibited on Nature India Tours

Please revert on natureindiatours@gmail.com ID, in case you need any clarification …..
For any other queries I am available on 9321463362 or 9820455713

Thanks for your patience.

Looking forward for a very rewarding trip with you all !!

Warm Regards,

Adesh Shivkar

Nature India

Appreciate, Respect and Conserve