India, with its rich tapestry of biodiversity and stunning landscapes, is home to some of the most remarkable wildlife safari lodges nestled in its tiger reserves and national parks. These sanctuaries not only offer a haven for the majestic Bengal tiger but also provide visitors with an immersive and luxurious safari experience. Embark on a journey through these wild retreats, where the call of the wild meets unparalleled luxury, creating memories that last a lifetime. Let’s explore some of the finest wildlife lodges in India that are perfect for your next tiger safari.
Best Wildlife Safari Lodges In India
1. Jim’s Jungle Retreat, Corbett
Nestled between the Himalayan foothills and the ancient Shivaliks, Jim’s Jungle Retreat offers a lush sanctuary within the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Spread over 1300 square kilometres of diverse landscapes, this retreat provides an immersive jungle experience amidst replanted forests, grasslands, and water bodies. The accommodations here reflect the area’s Raj-era legacy and the pastoral heritage of the Van Gujjars, with jungle cottages and bungalow-style safari lodges featuring large verandas and spacious interiors. Corbett’s rich biodiversity, including over 650 endangered species, makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike.
Where: Village & PO Dhela, Ramnagar Corbett Tiger Reserve, Ramnagar S.O, Uttarakhand
Check-in time: 1 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹10,000/night
2. Pench Tree Lodge, Pench
Pench Tree Lodge, set in the underdeveloped Karmajhiri area of Pench National Park, is a refuge for eco-sensitive adventurers. Spanning 40 acres, the lodge features 6 tree houses and 10 cottages designed to minimise environmental impact. The rewilded landscape supports local flora and fauna, offering guests opportunities for jeep safaris, night trails, and village walks. The lodge’s cuisine emphasises farm-to-table dining with ingredients sourced from its organic garden. Pench National Park, known for its high density of prey animals and thriving tiger population, provides an exhilarating backdrop for wildlife experiences.
Where: Pench National Park, Seoni, Kurai, Madhya Pradesh
Check-in time: 1 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹14,000/night
3. Khem Villas, Ranthambore
Khem Villas, located on the edge of Ranthambhore National Park, offers a luxurious and tranquil jungle camp experience. Established by the Rathore family, known for their conservation efforts, this camp blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The amazing accommodations here range from private villas with sun decks and hot tubs to luxury tents with rustic charm. The camp’s lush grasslands attract a variety of wildlife, including jackals, jungle cats, and numerous bird species.
Where: Khilchipur, Sherpur, Rajasthan
Check-in time: 1 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹22,000/night
4. The Untamed Bandhavgarh
Experience the thrill of a colonial safari at The Untamed Bandhavgarh, located in the heart of Bandhavgarh National Park, known for its high density of Royal Bengal Tigers. This luxury tented camp offers spacious accommodations with private patios, designed to blend with the natural surroundings. Each tent features elegant interiors, ensuring a comfortable stay with modern amenities. The park’s diverse flora and picturesque landscape, including rocky hills and dense forests, create an enchanting setting for wildlife adventures.
Where: The Untamed Bandhavgarh, Rancha Bandhavgarh, Rancha Road, Tala, Madhya Pradesh
Check-in time: 1 pm onwards
5. Bagh Villas, Kanha
Bagh Villas, situated on the periphery of Kanha Tiger Reserve, offers a boutique jungle camp experience that bridges the gap between man and nature. Inspired by traditional hunting lodges and African camps, the accommodations include Shikar tents, tented suites, and lakeside cottages. Each unit is spacious and features modern amenities, with private verandahs overlooking a serene lake. The camp emphasises wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism, offering activities such as biking, nature trails, and spa services.
Where: Mukki to Nikkum Rd., Baherakhar, Madhya Pradesh 481116, Baherakhar, Madhya Pradesh
Check-in time: 12 pm onwards
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6. Waghoba Eco Lodge, Tadoba
The Waghoba Eco Lodge in Tadoba National Park sets new standards for eco-friendly luxury. Located in a 12-acre buffer zone, the lodge features 14 individual cottages designed with sustainability in mind. Each cottage includes private sit-outs, spacious interiors, and modern amenities. Here, you can enjoy farm-to-table dining, bird photography, and interactions with naturalists. Tadoba National Park, the oldest and largest in Maharashtra, offers a unique dry and deciduous landscape and is home to diverse wildlife, including tigers, making Waghoba Eco Lodge an ideal base for exploring this spectacular forest.
Where: VTalu Bhadrawati, Village: Wadala Tukum, Post Office: Astha, Tadoba, Maharashtra
Check-in time: 1:30 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹21,000/night
7. Jamtara Wilderness Camp, Pench
Jamtara Wilderness Camp, inspired by an ancient Banyan tree, offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of rural Pench. This 10-tent luxury camp allows guests to enjoy the surrounding tall Arjuna trees and dry riverbeds from their private patios. Designed for privacy and comfort, the tents feature permanent bathrooms and offer scenic views of the jungle. The camp’s location near Pench Tiger Reserve provides opportunities for wildlife sightings and immersive nature experiences.
Where: Pench National Park, Village Jamatra, Chaurai, Jamtra, Madhya Pradesh
Check-in time: 1 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹68,970/night
8. The Sarai at Toria, Khajuraho
The Sarai at Toria, situated near the Panna Tiger Reserve and Khajuraho, offers a unique riverside retreat with traditional village-style cottages. Each room is designed for comfort, with thick mud walls and high ceilings to regulate temperature naturally. Sarai’s proximity to the Ken River and the Madla entrance of Panna Tiger Reserve makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
Where: Mela Wali Galli, Village Toria, District Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Check-in time: 1 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹21,250/night
9. Denwa Backwater Escape, Satpura
Denwa Backwater Escape, an eco-luxury resort by Pugdundee Safaris, is located along the backwaters of the Denwa River in Satpura National Park. Built on 10 acres of forested land, the resort offers stunning views of the river, Pachmarhi hills, and grasslands. The accommodations here include cottages and treehouses designed with local materials for a rustic yet comfortable stay. The resort emphasises sustainability and offers a variety of activities, such as wildlife safaris, nature walks, and bird watching.
Where: Denwa Backwater Escape, Dist., Sarangpur, Khapa, Madhya Pradesh
Check-in time: 1:30 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹19,000/night
10. Svasara Jungle Lodge, Tadoba
Svasara Jungle Lodge, located just 300 metres from the Kolara Gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, offers a luxurious yet eco-friendly retreat in the heart of the jungle. The lodge features 12 spacious suites with modern amenities, private sit-out areas, and stunning jungle views. Here, you can savour a mix of Indian, Continental, and local Varadhi cuisine, with unique dining experiences like bush dinners. Svasara organises twice-daily jeep safaris led by experienced naturalists, nature walks, and bird-watching tours.
Where: Chimur, Gate, Kolara, Maharashtra
Cost: starting at ₹18,000/night
For a tiger safari experience like no other, book a stay at these amazing wildlife safari lodges.
Cover Image Courtesy: Jim’s Jungle Retreat/Website and The Untamed Bandhavgarh/Website
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