India Luxury Cricket & Safari Experience 2027

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About this tour

Experience the thrill of Test cricket between Australia and India in the historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy, paired with a luxury tiger safari at Tadoba and the timeless wonders of Delhi and Agra — a once-in-a-lifetime sporting journey curated exclusively for ACS Members and Friends.

Join celebrated cricket author and commentator Ken Piesse on a 19-day small group tour through India, beginning in the imperial capital of Delhi, continuing to Agra for the Taj Mahal, and culminating in two unforgettable Test matches at Nagpur’s VCA Stadium and Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium — the opening fixtures of the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. This is only the second five-Test series staged in India since 1991–92, and the most immersive way to experience cricket’s final frontier.

Ken Piesse is one of Australia’s most prolific sports writers with nearly 100 publications to his name and almost a dozen cricket tours led with Events Travel. Two nights in Delhi at the storied The Claridges open the tour, with a full day exploring Old and New Delhi. From there, you travel to Agra for a night at the Taj View Hotel, with afternoon visits to Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at sunset. Six nights at Le Meridien Nagpur anchor the 1st Test at the VCA Stadium, with an optional excursion to the temples and fort of Ramtek. The journey then heads into the wild heart of central India for two nights at Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge in Tadoba — one of India’s most celebrated tiger reserves — where jeep safaris offer the chance to encounter Bengal tigers and elusive leopards in pristine forest.

The tour concludes with six nights at the elegant Taj Connemara in Chennai for the 2nd Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, complemented by a guided city tour taking in the Government Museum’s Chola bronzes, San Thome Cathedral, Kapaleeshwara Temple and Marina Beach.

We deliberately limit our numbers and as Ken says, we are like a travelling family, with many new friendships made and lots of fun, with Test greats making surprise appearances, like in Jamaica last winter when Lawrence Rowe spoke to our group at a special celebratory hometown dinner in honour of the record-breaking West Indian.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • Exclusive small group of ACS Members and Friends (approx. 20 guests)
  • 19 days/17 nights with daily breakfast
  • Led throughout by celebrated cricket author and commentator Ken Piesse
  • Return flights ex Melbourne with Singapore Airlines, plus all internal flights and transport
  • Luxury accommodation throughout — five-star city hotels and a premium safari lodge at Tadoba
  • 1st and 2nd Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the VCA Stadium, Nagpur and the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai (tickets purchased separately)
  • Two nights in Delhi with a full-day guided tour of Old and New Delhi
  • One night in Agra with visits to Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at sunset
  • 2-night tiger safari at Tadoba National Park with jeep safaris and all meals on safari days
  • Optional excursions to Ramtek and Chennai city tour
  • A balance of guided touring, Test cricket and free time to explore at leisure
  • Personalise your trip: extra nights, extensions, flight upgrades and travel insurance

Departing Melbourne in late January — the cool, dry season and the most comfortable time of year to travel in India — this is a rare chance to combine world-class cricket with one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.

Enquire now or get in touch to secure your place on this exclusive ACS Members & Friends Cricket Supporters Tour.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY

What's included?
  • Return group flights from Melbourne to India with Singapore Airlines:
    • Economy Class including checked luggage (30kg per person)
    • Outbound: Sunday, 17 January 2027, via Singapore to Delhi (SQ238 / SQ406)
    • Return: Wednesday, 3 February 2027, Chennai via Singapore to Melbourne (SQ525 / SQ247), arriving Thursday, 4 February 2027
  • Domestic flight from Delhi to Nagpur with IndiGo (6E6996), Wednesday, 20 January 2027 — checked luggage 15kg per person (less than the international allowance; additional luggage may be purchased individually at the airport — not included)
  • Domestic flights from Nagpur to Chennai via Bengaluru with IndiGo (6E6864 and 6E6012), Thursday, 28 January 2027 — checked luggage 15kg per person (less than the international allowance; additional luggage may be purchased individually at the airport — not included)
  • Group airport transfers on arrival in Delhi and departure from Chennai
  • 2 nights’ accommodation at The Claridges, Delhi (5-star heritage hotel):
    • Check-in: Sunday, 17 January 2027
    • Check-out: Tuesday, 19 January 2027
  • 1 night’s accommodation at Taj View Hotel, Agra (5-star):
    • Check-in: Tuesday, 19 January 2027
    • Check-out: Wednesday, 20 January 2027
  • 6 nights’ accommodation at Le Meridien Nagpur (5-star):
    • Check-in: Wednesday, 20 January 2027
    • Check-out: Tuesday, 26 January 2027
  • 2 nights’ accommodation at Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge, Tadoba (premium safari lodge):
    • Check-in: Tuesday, 26 January 2027
    • Check-out: Thursday, 28 January 2027
  • 6 nights’ accommodation at Taj Connemara, Chennai (5-star heritage hotel):
    • Check-in: Thursday, 28 January 2027
    • Check-out: Wednesday, 3 February 2027
  • Daily breakfast included throughout (17 nights)
  • All meals included at Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge, Tadoba (breakfast, lunch and dinner on full safari day)
  • Jeep safaris in Tadoba National Park
  • Australia Day celebration drink with Ken Piesse at Tadoba, Tuesday, 26 January 2027
  • Access to official cricket tickets — best available reserved seating (tickets sold separately):
    • 1st Test: India v Australia at the VCA Stadium, Nagpur — 5 days, 21–25 January 2027
    • 2nd Test: India v Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai — 5 days, 29 January – 2 February 2027
  • Group transfers to and from each day of Test cricket at Nagpur and Chennai
  • Full-day guided tour of Old and New Delhi, including Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Red Fort (drive-past), Raj Ghat, Humayun’s Tomb and Imperial Delhi, Monday, 18 January 2027
  • Guided tour of Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at sunset, Tuesday, 19 January 2027
  • Optional day excursion to Ramtek Temple and Fort during the Nagpur Test
  • Optional guided city tour of Chennai, including the Government Museum (Chola bronze gallery), San Thome Cathedral, Kapaleeshwara Temple, Marina Beach and the Fort Museum
  • Group transport throughout with professional drivers, including all touring, match days and excursions
  • Free leisure time in Delhi, Nagpur, Tadoba and Chennai
  • Tour led throughout by celebrated cricket author and commentator Ken Piesse
  • Events Travel Welcome Pack:
    • Game Day Tote Bag
    • Luggage Tags
    • Luggage Strap
  • Personalised booking support from our expert reservations team
  • Gratuities included
  • All booking fees and taxes included

Match tickets are not included in the base tour cost. Tickets will be arranged on behalf of guests directly with the venues closer to the tour date. Members can elect to purchase any combination of match days.
Prices are per person in AUD with all listed inclusions.
OCCUPANCYPRICE
Double/twin$8,698
Single supplement+$3,339
Upgrade to 2 Bedroom Villa at The Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge+$165 pp (4 persons, 2 nights)
There is 1 x 2 Bedroom Villa available at The Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge with a supplement of INR 11,000 per person for 2 nights.
Match tickets are not included in the base tour cost. Tickets will be arranged on behalf of guests directly with the venues closer to the tour date. Members can elect to purchase any combination of match days.
A single room includes one bed for one person; a double room includes one bed for two people; and a twin room features two separate beds for two people. Triple, quad, and family room options are available at select properties, with bedding configurations varying by hotel and room category. Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
We accept payments in AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD upon request, with exchange rates applied at the time of payment.

Ken Piesse

KEN PIESSE is Australia’s most published cricket writer and author and a 10-time host of overseas cricket tours for Events Travel, having led groups to England (7 times), New Zealand, the West Indies, South Africa and Zimbabwe. He has written 71 cricket books and is a regular presenter on cruise ships with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. His unparalleled contact base sees his groups regularly mixing with the stars. His latest book, 100 not out, celebrating  a centenary of Victorian Country Cricket is available from September.

Ken Piesse Lawrence Rowe and Ken Piesse 

Tour Manager

All small group tours are accompanied by a Tour Manager, who are there to assist with day-to-day activities and provide on-site support throughout the journey. A professional driver operates all group transport unless specified otherwise.

Health and fitness requirements

A good level of health and moderate fitness are required to fully enjoy this tour. Activities may include walking significant distances, boarding coaches, navigating uneven surfaces, and visiting attractions, event venues or stadiums. If you have accessibility needs or health concerns, please speak with our team prior to booking so we can advise on suitability and, where possible, make special arrangements in advance.

Travellers acknowledge that neither Events Travel nor its suppliers can provide medical or mobility assistance if you are unable to participate in part or all of the tour due to your health or physical condition. Events Travel will not be liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury, or death arising from such circumstances.

Leisure time and optional activities

Our itineraries balance guided experiences with free time, allowing you to explore destinations at your own pace or enjoy hotel facilities at leisure. If you wish to arrange additional sightseeing or activities, our team can assist when booking, or your Tour Manager can provide recommendations during the trip. Some experiences may sell out well in advance, so we encourage booking optional activities as early as possible. We recommend securing extras soon after making your booking, and we can provide pricing, recommendations and booking links.

What’s not included

  • Cricket tickets (available to purchase individually at a later date)
  • Pre or post-tour accommodation, airport transfers or other travel services unless specifically listed in the inclusions (quotes available on request)
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended; quotes available on request for Australian residents or those travelling to Australia)
  • Meals and beverages not specified in the inclusions or itinerary
  • Hotel incidentals (e.g. mini-bar, laundry, personal expenses)
  • Entry visa or other documentation required for entry to the countries visited (instructions will be provided in your travel documents)

Dress code

  • Day-to-day: relaxed and comfortable clothing suitable for travel and sightseeing
  • Evenings and hospitality: smart casual attire for included dinners or hospitality events
  • Special requirements: some activities or venues may impose additional dress codes, which will be advised in advance in your FAQs, travel documents and/or itinerary notes

Hotels

Many hotels are set within historic or boutique buildings. This often adds charm and character but can also mean that rooms vary in size, shape and layout — even within the same category. Features such as air conditioning, elevators, and modern amenities may be limited or differ between hotels. If you have specific requirements, please let us know prior to booking so we can advise on the most suitable options.

Itinerary changes

The tour itinerary remains subject to change due to operational requirements, weather, venue availability, or other circumstances beyond our control. While every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as described, Events Travel reserves the right to amend, substitute, or vary the order of activities without prior notice to ensure the best possible tour experience.

Hotel changes

Hotel information, descriptions and images are provided for reference only and are sourced from official hotel websites or suppliers. Amenities, facilities and features are subject to change without notice. All hotels are subject to confirmation in the final itinerary. If a listed property becomes unavailable, a hotel of an equivalent or higher standard will be offered in its place (“or similar”). In the rare instance that a lower standard property is provided, a price reduction will apply.

Minimum departure numbers

All tours are subject to a minimum number of passengers to proceed. The required minimum will vary depending on the tour and is determined by Events Travel in its sole discretion.

If minimum numbers are not met by a specified cut-off date, Events Travel reserves the right to cancel the tour. In such circumstances, affected customers will be notified in writing and offered the following options:

  • A full refund of monies paid for the tour component; or
  • Transfer to an alternative tour or package of equal or lesser value (subject to availability); or
  • Proceed with a revised or self-guided package itinerary, where feasible and agreed upon in writing.

Important notice: Do not make any non-refundable or non-changeable travel arrangements (including flights, accommodation or other services) until Events Travel has confirmed that the tour has reached minimum numbers and is proceeding as scheduled. Events Travel will not be liable for any losses, costs or expenses (including cancellation or change fees) you incur as a result of a tour being cancelled, rescheduled or materially altered due to minimum numbers not being met.

This clause operates in addition to your rights under Australian Consumer Law. Where applicable, refunds will be made in line with your statutory entitlements.

Every journey is different. With more than 30 years of experience, our team can tailor your trip with flexible services and extras, designing the perfect itinerary and sourcing the best available rates and options using our experience and networks, tailored to your preferences and trip. Many guests choose to extend their trip beyond the event itself, combining their experience with a broader holiday, whether it’s a few extra days, a few weeks or a stopover.

Available services include:

    • Extra nights at featured hotels or alternative accommodation, with our team securing the best available rates including price matching
    • Domestic and international flights with route and fare recommendations
    • Airport transfers, car rental, train tickets and other local transport solutions
  • Cruises and multi-day tours
  • Tickets to attractions, activities and guided sightseeing experiences
  • Tailored travel insurance with Cover-More and Go Insurance
  • Extensions to other destinations with complete itineraries and personalised recommendations

Start planning today — enquire now for a personalised quote and speak to our expert travel team.

The default currency for this event is AUD (A$). We accept AUD, USD, GBP, EUR and NZD on request.

  • A deposit of 30% is due to confirm your booking, plus any ticket upgrades and extras*.
  • The balance of 70% is due by 17 October 2026^.
If your booking includes extra services, alternative payment terms may apply. Specific details will be outlined during the quoting process. Bookings made after the balance due date require full payment upfront unless otherwise agreed in writing.

How to make payment

Your invoice will include instructions for payment via direct bank transfer (EFT) or secure online credit/debit card payment. Each invoice contains a Pay Now link directing you to a secure payment portal for quick and easy card payments.

How to pay in other currencies

Invoices can be issued and paid in AUD, USD, GBP, EUR or NZD. If you would like to pay in a different currency to the default currency for this event, please contact our team to request an updated invoice. The total will be converted at the best available mid-market exchange rate, with updated payment instructions provided.

Payments in AUD

  • Direct Transfer (EFT): No additional fees
  • Visa or Mastercard: 1.70% merchant fee
  • American Express: 1.98% merchant fee

Payments in USD, GBP, EUR or NZD

  • Direct Transfer (EFT): No additional fees
  • Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Google Pay, Apple Pay: 1.98% merchant fee

If you have any questions about this product or need assistance with your booking, our team is here to help.

Please email us at res@events.com.au or call us on +61 3 5989 7666.

STATUS
NEW
STARTING FROM
A$8,698
EVENT CURRENCY
$ AUD
WHY EVENTS TRAVEL
Need help?

Call our team on +613 5989 7666 or email res@events.com.au — we're ready!

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Itinerary

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Day 1 — Sun, 17 Jan · Depart Melbourne, Arrive Delhi

Depart Melbourne with Singapore Airlines, arriving Delhi late evening. Transfer to The Claridges for two nights.

Stay: The Claridges, Delhi (5-star)
Meals: In flight

Full-day guided tour of Old and New Delhi, including Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, the Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Humayun’s Tomb and Imperial Delhi.

Stay: The Claridges, Delhi (5-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Travel to Agra by road. Afternoon visit to Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at sunset.

Stay: Taj View Hotel, Agra (5-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Transfer to Delhi Airport for your IndiGo flight to Nagpur. Arrive and check in for six nights.

Stay: Le Meridien Nagpur (5-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Five days of Test cricket at the VCA Stadium for the opening fixture of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Optional day excursion to Ramtek Temple and Fort.

Stay: Le Meridien Nagpur (5-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Drive to Tadoba and check in to your safari lodge. Afternoon jeep safari, followed by an Australia Day celebration drink with Ken Piesse.

Stay: Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge, Tadoba
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning jeep safari in search of Bengal tigers and leopards. Afternoon at leisure at the lodge.

Stay: Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge, Tadoba
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to Nagpur Airport for IndiGo flights to Chennai via Bengaluru. On arrival, transfer to the Taj Connemara for six nights.

Stay: Taj Connemara, Chennai (5-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Five days of Test cricket at the historic MA Chidambaram Stadium. Optional guided city tour of Chennai taking in the Government Museum, San Thome Cathedral, Kapaleeshwara Temple and Marina Beach.

Stay: Taj Connemara, Chennai (5-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Transfer to Chennai Airport for your Singapore Airlines flight home via Singapore.

Stay: —
Meals: Breakfast

Melbourne at 5:45am. End of tour arrangements.

Stay: —
Meals: In flight

The tour itinerary remains subject to change due to operational requirements, weather, venue availability, or other circumstances beyond our control. While every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as described, Events Travel reserves the right to amend, substitute, or vary the order of activities without prior notice to ensure the best possible tour experience.

Hotels

See what hotels this tour will be enjoying. Room upgrades and more details may be available on request.

Hotel information, descriptions, and images are provided for reference only and are sourced from official hotel websites or suppliers. Amenities, facilities, and features are subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer directly to the hotel’s official website or contact our team. All hotels are subject to change in the final itinerary; if a listed hotel becomes unavailable, a hotel of an equivalent or higher standard will be offered in its place (“or similar”).

Start your journey today

It’s time to secure your place on this exclusive ACS Members’ Tour.

Start your journey.

Let us know a few details and one of our travel experts will reply personally — typically within one business day.

Need help? Call our team on +613 5989 7666 or email res@events.com.au — we're ready to assist.

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