Asia Asia provides some excellent wildlife destinations amid a growing awareness of the need to preserve the natural world. Our ever- popular Indian itinerary, Tiger Tiger, is this year complimented by a host of exciting new ideas including primate research in Sri Lanka, a small group adventure in Nepal, and new itineraries in China, home to the wonderful giant panda.

Sri Lanka India Nepal China Borneo In focus Climate - India Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Temperature max (° C) 21 24 31 36 41 39 36 34 34 34 29 23 Rainfall ( mm) 23 18 13 8 13 74 180 173 117 10 3 10 February As leaves fall, grasses wither and water sources recede in the Indian subcontinent, opportunities to see the magnificent tiger are at their best until April. Pages 96- 105 Contents Asia India ................................................................................................... 96 - 105 Nepal .................................................................................................. 106 - 109 Sri Lanka ............................................................................................ 110 - 113 China .................................................................................................. 114 - 115 Borneo ................................................................................................ 116 - 119 An estimated 40,000 big cats lived in India a century ago. Today tiger numbers are approximately 1,300, although offi cial data is hard to come by. This is an exceptionally sad situation and tourist support is necessary in order to help preserve these amazing creatures. Despite the dwindling numbers, sightings amongst Wildlife Worldwide clients are still good and India presents a different experience to the traditional safari. Top tip: Borneo is a good year- round destination. Wildlife viewing is often good during the wet seasons, generally only being suspended when rains make travelling diffi cult. ASIA | INTRODUCTION 95 March Spring time is one of the best times for panda tracking in the Qinling Mountains of China, before the vegetation becomes too thick. Pages 114- 115 October In Nepal the many wildlife camps and lodges begin to open again after the monsoon season. October and November are good for mammal sightings. Pages 106- 109 November For keen birders, the best time to see birds in Bharatpur, India, is November to February when water levels are high and migratory birds are in residence. Pages 96- 105