AGRA

The city of Agra is a must-visit destination in India, renowned for its many magnificent structures from the Mughal era — most notably the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is a mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife. Constructed entirely from marble, the project took over 22 years to complete, resulting in a monument that, even 400 years later, is still considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. In addition to its breathtaking design and perfect symmetry, the Taj Mahal is also celebrated for its elegant domes and intricate architectural details. Agra Fort, another iconic landmark, was built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Known as the “Red Fort” due to its construction from red sandstone, this massive complex stretches over a three-kilometer radius. Within its walls lie some of the finest examples of Mughal architecture, offering a deep glimpse into India’s rich imperial past.

KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK

Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is located approximately 55 kilometers from Agra and spans 29 square kilometers. This bird sanctuary hosts thousands of birds, especially during the winter months. The park features a unique mosaic of habitats, including wetlands, forests, scrublands, and grasslands, supporting an incredible diversity of both flora and fauna. Home to over 350 species of birds — including 42 species of raptors and nine species of owls — Keoladeo is considered one of the most bird-rich locations in the world.In addition to its avian population, the park is also home to 34 species of mammals, 22 species of reptiles, Various species of amphibians, fish, and butterflies, Over 30 species of spiders. This rich biodiversity makes Keoladeo not only a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers, but also an important ecological haven.

JAN 31 – FEB 6 2026

Throughout the journey, Jonas Classon will be available to offer individual photographic guidance and advice. We’ll also focus on image editing, composition, and in-depth image reviews where participants can learn by analyzing each other’s work. Jonas will also hold inspiring talks to spark creativity and give you new ideas for your photography.

FOR THOSE WHO WISH TO ARRIVE A DAY EARLY

We recommend arriving in Delhi one day earlier (30/1) to buffer against possible flight delays and to give yourself time to relax after the long journey. Therefore, we’ve put together an optional pre-tour program:

Arrival in Delhi during the day. Private transfer and check-in at the five-star Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity. In the afternoon, we’ll go on a guided city tour of Delhi, covering both New Delhi, with landmarks like India Gate, Parliament House, and the Presidential Palace, as well as Old Delhi, where we’ll explore the bustling Chandni Chowk market by rickshaw and wander through its narrow alleys, feeling as if we’re riding right through the shops. The tour concludes with a walk through the vibrant spice market — a place full of energy, color, and endless photographic opportunities.

The price for this extra night can be found further down under the pricing section and can be added when booking your flight.

MAIN TRIP JAN 31 – FEB 6 2026

DAY 1 (JAN 31) –  WELCOME TO INDIA

We meet in Delhi in the morning, where you’ll be welcomed by Jonas Classon and our local nature guide who will accompany us throughout the journey.

Our first stop is Agra, where we’ll check in at the first-class Hotel Grand Mercure. After a group lunch, we’ll visit the legendary Agra Fort, followed by the highlight of the day: Taj Mahal. In the golden evening light, we’ll photograph and experience this magnificent monument up close. As the sun sets, the marble surface changes color, creating a truly magical scene — an unforgettable moment for any photographer. The day ends with a group welcome dinner. (L, D)

DAY 2 (FEB 1) – AGRA TO KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK

In the morning, you’ll have the opportunity to photograph the Taj Mahal at sunrise — a breathtaking scene as the building’s marble glows in different hues. After returning to the hotel for breakfast and checkout, we continue our journey toward the main destination of the trip: Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in at Birders Inn, located right next to the park entrance. After lunch, as we enjoy the delicious flavors of Indian cuisine, Jonas will give an introduction to the evening’s first photo session in one of the best birding destinations in the world.

Equipped with our cameras, we’ll meet our local cycle rickshaw guides, who will take us into the heart of Keoladeo National Park. Spanning over 29 square kilometers, the park features shallow wetlands and lush woodland, teeming with life. With over 300 bird species — from colorful bee-eaters to majestic storks and raptors — this is a paradise for bird photography. You’ll also encounter sambar deer, nilgai antelope, and wild boar. (B, L, D)

DAYS 3–6 (FEB 2–5) – KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK

During these days, we’ll fully immerse ourselves in the rich landscapes of Keoladeo National Park, focusing on developing our bird photography under the guidance of one of Sweden’s leading wildlife photographers.

With the help of our experienced rickshaw guides, we’ll explore the park’s wetlands and woodland trails, capturing stunning images as the landscape opens into a beautiful marshland. Subjects are everywhere — from the impressive Black-necked Stork and Sarus Crane, to Anhingas, owls, and much more.

This time of year is breeding season for many birds in India. The trees are buzzing with life, as young herons, storks, and other species call for food. Fights often break out among the birds, creating thrilling action scenes perfect for photography. It’s a captivating experience — waiting for the perfect moment, calm yet exciting, where the next great shot could appear at any time.

If water levels permit, we’ll also head out on peaceful boat rides in the early mornings. Gliding through the misty wetlands, we’ll experience new perspectives and photographic opportunities unlike any other.

Jonas will be available during all sessions to provide personal coaching, and we’ll have group photo stops where he demonstrates his creative approach to image-making.

When not in the field, we’ll spend time on image editing, group reviews, and constructive critiques. On the final evening, Jonas will select the “Image of the Trip”, which will automatically qualify for the Zoom Photo Travel’s “Photo of the Year 2026” competition. (B, L, D)

DAY 7 (FEB 6) – RETURN HOME

After one last morning session in the park, we return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, we travel back to Delhi for onward flights home. (B, L)

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: TIGER SAFARI IN RANTHAMBHORE

For those who wish to continue their adventure in India, we also offer an optional extension to Ranthambhore National Park, where you’ll have the chance to experience and photograph wild tigers in their natural habitat. More information is available further down the page.

JONAS CLASSON – Bird photographer

Jonas Classon is a full-time wildlife photographer, specializing in birds — a focus that has made him arguably one of the worls leading bird photographer today. The energy he draws from nature has shaped the way he sees his subjects and helped develop his unique visual style. With deep knowledge of equipment and technique, Jonas creates innovative and striking images that have earned him numerous awards.

Among his accolades, one of his swan images from Lake Tysslingen was awarded “Creative Nature Photo of the Year”in the NNPC 2018. He was also a category winner in SIPA – Siena International Photo Awards, the world’s largest photo competition. Jonas has published two books: “Lappugla” and “Svart Album”.

For more information, visit: www.jonasclasson.se

For those who wish to experience India’s famous tigers as part of their journey, we are excited to offer this adventure-filled extension.

Extend your stay in India and photograph the majestic tiger in one of the country’s most beautiful and renowned national parks. Over the course of a few unforgettable days, we’ll explore Ranthambhore National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to capture images of not only tigers and leopards, but also wild dogs, various deer species, and a wide range of other wildlife — all set against a stunning natural backdrop.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Six game drives in Ranthambhore National Park
• Excellent chances to photograph tigers and leopards
• Ranthambhore’s dramatic and rugged landscapes
• Rich wildlife including gaur (Indian bison), wild dogs, wild boar, and much more

RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK

Ranthambhore offers a spectacular landscape of rocky plateaus, lakes, and rivers, creating an atmospheric and photogenic setting. At the heart of the park lie the majestic ruins of 16th-century Ranthambhore Fort, often serving as a dramatic backdrop as tigers pass by.

As one of the original Project Tiger reserves, Ranthambhore offers some of the best chances in India to see and photograph wild tigers in their natural habitat.

ITINERARY

DAY 1 (FEB 6) –  DRIVE TO RANTHAMBORE & FIRST GAME DRIVE

Early in the morning, we depart Bharatpur for a scenic four-hour drive to Ranthambhore. Upon arrival, we check in at our first-class safari lodge and enjoy a late lunch before heading out on our first fam drive.

Excitement builds as we pass through the park gates into a world of lush, undulating terrain, where photographic opportunities await around every corner. We may stop to photograph a troop of langurs leaping through the treetops, or — if we’re lucky — encounter a pack of wild dogs sprinting down the track just meters in front of us.

After an exhilarating afternoon filled with sightings and photos, we return to the lodge where dinner awaits. (B, L, D)

DAY 2–3 (FEB 7–8) –  SAFARIS IN RANTHAMBORE

Over the next two days, we explore the diverse habitats of Ranthambhore on morning and afternoon game drives. In the cool morning air, we move through the thick jungle, watching the sunrise through the trees. In the rocky highlands, keep your eyes on the cliffs — you might spot a leopard basking in the first rays of the day.

After the morning safari, you’ll have time to relax by the pool or enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the lodge before heading out for the afternoon drive.

From our open jeeps, we listen closely for warning calls and movement among the trees. Suddenly, a call echoes through the forest — it’s getting closer. Out of nowhere, a tiger silently emerges from the brush, walking straight toward us, crossing the road just meters away before disappearing just as quietly into the teak forest. (B, L, D)

DAY 4 (FEB 9) – MORNING GAME DRIVE & RETURN TO DELHI

After one last early morning game drive filled with memorable photographic moments, we leave Ranthambhore and begin our return journey to Delhi, where you will continue your travels or flight home on your own arrangements.
(B)

MAIN TRIP
Price per person: USD 3 950

The price includes:

• All transportation as specified in the itinerary.
• Bottled water during all bus transfers.
• Accommodation in shared double rooms.
• Meals according to the program (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
• Photographic activities as per the program.
• Entrance to the Taj Mahal.
• Entry fees to Keoladeo National Park.
• Personal rickshaw in Keoladeo National Park.
• Boat rides in Keoladeo National Park (subject to water levels).
• Full participation of Jonas Classon throughout the trip.
• Lectures and image editing sessions led by Jonas Classon.
• A professional English-speaking naturalist guide during the entire trip.
• Gratuities, except for the naturalist guide.
• Travel documents and practical information before departure.
• Hotel and local taxes.

The price does not include:

• International flights to and from Delhi.
• Single room supplement: USD 490
• Drinks, unless specified under “Price includes”.
• Visa fees for India.
• Gratuities for the naturalist guide (approx. USD 15/day).
• Personal expenses (e.g. drinks with meals).
• Travel insurance / cancellation protection (see “Other” on our website for more information).

TIGER EXTENSION
Price per person: USD 1 950  (Minimum of 3 participants)

The price includes:

• Bus transportation as per itinerary.
• Bottled water during all transfers.
• Accommodation in shared double room.
• Meals according to the program.
• Six game drives in Ranthambhore National Park.
• Park entry fees.
• An experienced English-speaking naturalist guide.
• All gratuities except for the naturalist guide.
• Hotel and local taxes.

The price does not include:

• Single room supplement: USD 360
• Gratuities to the local guide (approx. USD 15/day).
• Drinks unless otherwise stated under “Price includes”

EXTRA NIGHT – JAN 30
Price per person in shared double room: USD 355

Single room supplement: USD 140

The price includes:

• Meet & greet at the airport.
• Transfer from the airport to the hotel.
• One night at the Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity*****.
• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Dinner buffet at the hotel.
• Sightseeing tour of Delhi with local guide.
• Entrance fees.
• Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi.
• Gratuities to local guide.
• Hotel and local taxes and fees.

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Flights to/from Delhi are arranged independently. You should arrive in Delhi no later than 10:00 AM on Jan 31, and book your return flight no earlier than 10:00 PM on Feb 6.

If you would like assistance with international flight bookings, please indicate this when registering on the booking page, or contact us at:
📞 +46 70 180 90 99
📧 info@zoomphototours.com

FACTS
Target audience: Photographers interested in developing their bird photography skills.

Minimum / Maximum group size: 6 / 8 participants.

More information: For details about Zoom Photo Tours and terms of service, see the “Other” section on our website.

CAMERA GEAR

• Your digital camera
• Telephoto lens (preferably up to 500mm)
• 70–200mm lens
• Wide-angle lens (e.g. 24–70mm)
• Monopod or tripod
• Laptop with Photoshop or Lightroom
• Extra batteries, chargers, and memory cards

BOOKING
To secure your spot, click the booking button below or contact us at:
📞 +46 70 180 90 99
📧 info@zoomphototours.com