HOSPITALITY

Exploring some of India’s finest wildlife retreats

WORDS SANCHITA NAMBIAR

Picture yourself amidst an abundant ora and fauna, away from the bustling work life! Now isn’t this the type of healing that we all deserve in the current scenario where breathing fresh air seems to be a luxury, to say the least?

A holiday in the wilderness is a “must do in this lifetime”, and India is the perfect destination for you to experience it. From Corbett National Park in

Uttarakhand to Tadoba National Park in Maharashtra and from Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan to

Kaziranga National Park in Assam, the country boasts a plethora of wildlife sites. Complementing these are the exquisite wildlife retreats that let you have close and personal encounters with the dazzling natural landscape of India while enjoying a stay replete with luxury and comfort.

So, if being one with nature is on top of your mind right now, here are a few recommendations you can consider for a tranquil stay in the wild.

AMAN-I-KHÁS

Soak in the unrivalled beauty of Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan while staying at Amani-Khás. Located on the threshold of the reserve, this intimate tented camp o ers daily safaris to explore the reserve’s abundant wildlife. e expert guides at the camp ensure a fun yet enlightening adventure time for guests. Apart from tiger spotting in Ranthambore, the camp also o ers activities such as exploring the Khandar Fort, bird-watching in the Banas riverbed and taking camel safari through villages on the park’s outskirts. Back at the camp, savour local recipes in the Dining Tent and rejuvenate with wellness therapy.

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CORBETT THE BAAGH SPA AND RESORT

Book a stay at this jungle spa resort in Uttarakhand and immerse yourself in the beauty of its neighbouring hills, farms and forests. e spacious rooms and suites are elegantly done and open to sweeping views of nature. e hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant Nivala serves delicious local and global cuisine. Set out on a journey to traverse one of the oldest national parks in India — Jim Corbett National Park. e resort’s jungle safaris are a thrilling opportunity the catch glimpses of majestic animals and observe nature in its pure form. In addition to this, guests staying at the resort can check out several other activities including nature walks and bird watching, trekking, visit the Corbett Museum and river ra ing to name a few. corbettthebaagh.com

KANHA EARTH LODGE

Occupying a small area in 16 acres of natural forest, bordering Kanha’s bu er zone, Kanha Earth Lodge’s key focus is eco-tourism and conservation. is Madhya Pradesh-based property is 25 minutes from the Khatia park gate, ensuring proximity to the Kanha Tiger Reserve. e eco-friendly accommodation are designed using local elements. Jeep safari experiences are guided by experts. Nature trails, birding, sunset walks, cycling expeditions and tribal shops are some other options to indulge in. Enjoy a bush dinner, amidst the sounds of the forest and make memories of a lifetime. kanhaearthlodge.com

KOHIMA CAMP, NAGALAND

Highlighting the cultural treasures of the land of the Nagas, this unique camp houses carefully designed tents equipped with modern amenities. Sip a local rice beer, relish delicious tribal recipes of the Naga Tribes and participate in celebrations of the unique Hornbill Festival while having an unforgettable stay at Kohima Camp. Witness vibrant performances, cra s, sports, and interact with the tribal communities. Adding to these are guided excursions, village walks and local sightseeing.

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MAHUA KOTHI, A TAJ SAFARI - BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK

is jungle safari resort in Bandhavgarh National Park o ers 12 standalone luxurious cottages. e dining o erings consist of Chaupal Dining, a picture-perfect alfresco dining spot, the Mahua Dinner featuring Indian barbecued dishes and the Bonnet Breakfast wherein an expansive breakfast spread is laid out on the safari vehicle bonnet deep in the jungle. Twice daily safaris are conducted by expert naturalists in specially designed 4X4 vehicles. Morning safaris start shortly a er sunrise, while a ernoon safaris end at sunset. e professional naturalists interpret the jungle calls and read tracks of animals, giving the visitors a higher chance to spot the rare wildlife moments. e deep roars of tigers are sure to give you chills.

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NAHARGARH RANTHAMBHORE

is royal abode is just a few yards away from Ranthambhore National Park. Set amidst thousands of trees, Nahargarh o ers an ideal amalgamation of royalty and wilderness. e rooms are thoughtfully designed and ensure maximum privacy. Other amenities include a spa, Lancer’s Bar, grand courtyards, swimming pool and amphitheatre called Hathi Kund. Head out for a tiger safari in Ranthambhore and bask in the sheer joy of spotting the big cat in its natural habitat. A variety of birds including owlets, the ubiquitous langur (monkey), caracal, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, marsh crocodiles, wild boar, bears and various species of deer are a few other attractions.

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THE OBEROI VANYAVILAS WILDLIFE RESORT

One of the nest properties in Ranthambhore, e Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort features luxury tented accommodation inspired by the grand caravans of the royal families. Venture out for jungle drives on an Oberoi 4X4, and the lucky ones will be able to spot the enigmatic beast — Royal Bengal Tiger. e drives are led by professional, local naturalists. Traverse across the vibrant villages to Surwal Lake for a bird watching experience. Our expert guide will help you spot some of the 100 species of birds that have made the lake their home. Adding to these experiences is a ne dining restaurant serving authentic Rajasthani and international cuisine and spa service to unwind. oberoihotels.com

RED EARTH TADOBA

Nestled on the periphery of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, the resort’s core principle is “wildlife rst”. e cottages are planned around the existing vegetation and seamlessly blend with the surrounding, thereby creating a harmonious environment. Owing to its strategic location, the resort has access to some of the most undisturbed areas of the park. Guests will have the opportunity to experience two safaris a day, one in the early hours of dawn, and another one in the evening. Certi ed naturalists will accompany you on these unforgettable travel moments. Enjoy a birding activity where you might get a chance to spot the greyheaded sh eagle as it soars over Lake Tadoba spotting its prey or the golden-backed woodpecker. In addition, visitors are pampered with a host of other opportunities including guided nature walks, cycling and stargazing to name a few. redearth.in

RENI PANI JUNGLE LODGE

Reni Pani Jungle Lodge is situated close to the Satpura National Park, the largest tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh. is exquisitely designed conservation and wildlife-focused lodge feature pretty cottages for a comfortable stay. e tents at Reni Pani are carefully designed and are located around a perennial waterhole which provides opportunities for guests to observe wildlife right from their doorstep, in addition to them being just 11 km from Satpura Tiger Reserve. Reni Pani Jungle Lodge promotes non-motorized ways of exploring nature. Walking, canoeing, cycling, and camping safaris are o ered apart from jeep and motorboat excursions to see wildlife. e abundance of Reni Trees (a type of berry a er which the lodge and village are named) attracts a number of sloth bears and birds to Reni Pani.

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SAMODE SAFARI LODGE

Travellers looking for an opulent stay near Bandhavgarh National Park must opt for this retreat. Featuring 12 independent villas, Samode Safari Lodge guarantees a tranquil, luxurious stay during your tryst with Bandhavgarh’s wildlife. A local tracker and a professional guide from the lodge accompany guests on all game drives. e guides and trackers visit the park every day and keep a track of these movements by checking the spoor of the tigers and listening to the alarm calls of animals — this enables them to create an exhilarating experience for guests. Following a game drive, prepare yourself for an indulgent treat amidst nature. Gourmet dining at the main restaurant; barbecues around a camp re, a table set out in the bushes; lazy poolside meals or romantic dining in the privacy of your own villa can be arranged. A picnic in the woods is also recommended. samode.com

THE SERAI KABINI

e Serai Kabini is an ideal weekend getaway for Bengaluru residents looking for a tranquil time outside the city. Located on the Southeastern end of Nagarhole National Park, Kabini is home to one of the largest congregations of Asiatic elephants. e accommodation exudes a relaxing vibe and o ers scenic views of the mighty river. e jungle safaris are sure to send one into a tizzy. Apart from the big herd of elephants, big cats like tigers, leopards, black panther, plenty of deer, gaurs and dholes stay in the forest adjacent to the property. Bird trails, boat safari and riding coracles are a few of the other activities to experience.

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SVASARA JUNGLE LODGE

Svasara at Tadoba is situated 300 metres from Kolara Gate at Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra. It is a comfortable two-hour journey from Nagpur. e lodge comprises 10-acres of restored forest with 12 beautifully furnished suite rooms. e lodge is well-equipped with modern amenities for a luxurious and comfortable stay. Partake in an immersive safari experience onboard a custom- tted jeep accompanied by a knowledgeable naturalist. Keep your ears and eyes open as you wouldn’t want to miss out on that rare wildlife sighting at the reserve. In terms of F&B, their multi-cuisine dining options including Indian, continental, and local Varadi cuisine. svasararesorts.com BTI