Wildlife lodges you should book immediately for the October safari season
From the majestic tigers of Tadoba to the elephants of Nagarhole, India’s true richness lies away from the hustle and bustle of the cities and amidst the jungles and backwaters of India’s wilderness. And the best season to explore the country’s national parks is coming soon, as most are gearing up for reopening in October. Before you plan your next getaway, book these safari lodges that make the perfect base for your winter safaris.
Toria Sarai, Panna Tiger Reserve
The brainchild of husband and wife team Dr Raghu Chundawat and Joanna Van Gruisen, this boutique resort stands proud on the west bank of the Ken River, straddling the Panna Tiger Reserve. As well as offering an authentic and immersive stay, the property also promotes tiger-friendly tourism and, to minimise its carbon footprint, uses local products and building materials. They also collaborate with local communities, conduct awareness studies and encourage a sustainable, conservation-focused approach to tourism.
Taj Sawai, Ranthambore National Park
While tigers are Ranthambore’s biggest draw, this new retreat lets you immerse yourself in nature from a luxurious setting. Taj Sawai is a 56-room hotel featuring a tranquil pavilion adorned with lily ponds and offers stays ranging from private patios and large living rooms to plunge pools, balconies and outdoor showers. While jeep safaris are part of every itinerary, opt for an offbeat route with a boat safari on the Chambal River and end the day with a glass of your favourite tipple at the amazing (and cosy) Whiskey Lounge.
Aahana – The Corbett Desert, Corbett National Park
On the northeastern edge of Corbett lies Aahana, nestled in the lush Patlidun Valley. This eco-friendly property, founded by Kamal Tripathi, shares its boundary with the Bijrani zone of the park and combines sustainability and luxury in one elegant package. Its 13.5 acres of landscape are home to over 200 varieties of birds, ensuring that you always wake up to the sound of your winged friends. The key focus of this retreat, however, is sustainable tourism. Tripathi belongs to a family of freedom fighters, and the entire family’s initiative with Aahan was to give something back to the community and the environment. To that end, this luxury hotel has an organic farm that brings its farm-to-table dining experience to life. Over 95% of the staff are from neighbouring villages and run various cultural and natural initiatives on the property. And as always, expect exciting game drives followed by Kumaoni tea in your 48 Victorian-inspired rooms, suites and villas.
Samode Safari Lodge, Bandhavgarh National Park
Located in the buffer zone of the Bandhavgarh forest, Samode Safari Lodge offers an exclusive safari experience, strategically located away from the main tourist hub. Featuring twelve artfully designed villas, the lodge occupies just 2 acres of its sprawling 30-acre property, emphasizing nature restoration and cultural preservation. Samode’s ethos of sustainability extends to its architecture, which uses local materials and green energy, as well as employing local communities.
Tipai: Wildlife Luxuries, Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Founder Keyur Joshi’s love of wildlife is evident at this new lodge, which is a secluded outpost just a short drive from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you might just spot a tiger or two if luck is on your side. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, comfort is a given at Tipai by Wildlife Luxuries, with cosy villas offering privacy and comfort, with their own pool and plenty of space to relax. Tipai’s culinary offering is equally impressive. Chef Amninder Sandhu’s innovative Indian cuisine, prepared using fresh, local ingredients, is a highlight. From the cosy Perch to the elegant Wadi to the exceptional Palaash, each restaurant offers a unique culinary experience.
Bori Wildlife Lodge, Bori wildlife sanctuary
Not many will have heard of this sanctuary which is located in Madhya Pradesh and straddles the Satpura Tiger Reserve to the north. This is where Bori Wildlife Lodge is located, which has 12 deluxe rooms that come with private verandas giving you privacy unheard of in the bustling resorts scattered around the better-known national parks. Spread across 7.5 acres of farmland, Bori has all the ingredients for an incredible sustainable experience – the hotel restaurant follows a farm-to-table concept, the activities and excursions to the wildlife sanctuary are carefully designed. Don’t miss the butterfly park which has been carefully developed and nurtured within the premises over the past few years, to revive and support the forest ecosystem.
Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge, Nagarhole National Park
Evolve Back’s Kuruba Safari Lodge harmoniously blends traditional craftsmanship with modern luxury, offering guests a variety of accommodation options including Safari Hut, Pool Hut and Pool Reserve. Inspired by the tribal villages known as Hadis, these designs prioritise privacy while allowing you to blend seamlessly with your natural surroundings. Located close to Nagarhole National Park, this luxury resort offers guided walks and hikes through the rainforest or an exciting barge ride along the Kabini River, where the backwaters come alive, especially during the monsoon. They also allow you to immerse yourself in local culture through a visit to the neighbouring settlement of Jenu Kuruba, where travellers can hear local stories over a cup of special Jaggery Kaapi (coffee).
Chunda Shikar Oudi, Udaipur
Set on 150 hectares of forested land, Chunda Shikar Oudi was once a private hunting lodge that was transformed into a birdwatching paradise and leopard habitat. While it doesn’t sprawl across a national park, the forested terrain surrounding the property is expansive enough to qualify as a wildlife experience in its own right. The restored two-story building, with its spacious verandas, outdoor jacuzzi, fireplace, and private pool, is perfect for families or groups looking for a secluded getaway. Across the lake, the new building features eight guest rooms with private verandas, spacious bathrooms, and stunning lake views. And here, you can enjoy morning walking safaris, evening drives, or leisurely lake cruises to fully experience the nature of the property at your own pace.
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