Jungle Stays with Safari

1. Kabini River Lodge, Kabini

History and wildlife come together in a remarkable jungle stay that is a must-visit for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Located on the outskirts of Nagarahole National Park (Rajiv Gandhi National Park), the Kabini River Lodge was once the hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Mysore. Today, it is recognized as one of the Top 5 Wildlife Resorts in the World by the British Tatler’s Travel Guide.

This expansive colonial-style resort, situated in the heart of elephant country, offers a glimpse into a bygone era. The Kabini River Lodge emphasizes eco-tourism, allowing guests to connect with wildlife while preserving the natural habitat. Spanning 54 acres by the banks of the Kabini River, the lodge provides all the comforts of luxury stays, including a well-stocked bar, Ayurvedic treatments, and fully equipped conference rooms for corporate retreats.

The Gol Ghar, where meals are served, is more than a dining hall. It is a community-style eating area surrounded by greenery, perfect for socializing and spotting avian wildlife. With a river-facing view, diners can enjoy the serene flow of the Kabini River. The buffet offers a variety of Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisine, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

The surrounding forests of Nagarahole National Park are home to herds of elephants, sambar, spotted deer, wild boar, langur, and even tigers and panthers. Guests can embark on morning or evening jeep safaris and boat safaris to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. The thick green canopy above is home to colorful birds, providing a beautiful sight as they move from branch to branch. The Kabini River itself offers opportunities for traditional coracle boat rides or regular motor boat excursions.

At night, the Kabini River Lodge glows warmly under the starry sky. Guests can unwind with a wildlife movie in the audio-visual hall or enjoy a barbecue meal by a roaring campfire, watching the golden embers of the sky.

To know more about this stay, check here: Kabini River Lodge

2. Bandipur Safari Lodge, Bandipur

Bandipur is a beautiful stretch of wild terrain, carefully preserved and protected to allow Karnataka's wildlife to thrive peacefully. Once the private hunting grounds of the Maharaja, this region now hosts massive herds of elephants, swift deer darting between mossy tree trunks, and peafowl elegantly moving through the paths. Nestled at the foothills of the Nilgiris, the Bandipur Tiger Reserve and National Park is one of the thirty reserves identified across India to save tigers and their habitats.

Within its expansive premises, the Bandipur Safari Lodge offers a unique opportunity for ecological tourism. Here, you can witness spectacular wildlife and interact with nature as you explore the forest trails. Every evening, an in-house naturalist guides guests through the forest, teaching them how to examine animal tracks and educating them about the diverse animals that inhabit the jungle.

For budding ornithologists and bird lovers, the area around the lodge is a treasure trove of avian wildlife. With over two hundred species of birds, including peafowl, hornbills, woodpeckers, the Crested Hawk Eagle, wagtails, blue jays, and partridges, there is never a dull moment as you spot these beautiful creatures flocking to the trees.

The flora in Bandipur is another unique highlight. The forest is filled with herbs, medicinal, and ornamental plants that inspire the naturalist in everyone. Guests can photograph the leaves and flowers, and with the help of the lodge's naturalists, identify various species. Artists will find joy in sketching and painting the luxuriant flora and the stunning vistas of Bandipur's forests.

As twilight falls, the jungle slowly transitions into a serene night with a grayish-black gloom enveloping the surroundings. The rustling leaves from the evening wind and the chirping cicadas create a soothing melody, the perfect accompaniment to a delicious campfire barbecue dinner. 

To know more about this stay, check here: Bandipur Safari Lodge

3. K Gudi Wilderness Camp, B R Hills

The Kyathdevaraya Gudi (K Gudi) Wilderness Camp offers a prime ecotourism experience in a biodiversity hotspot. Surrounded by fresh, luxuriant greenery and animals roaming freely in their natural habitat, this Jungle Lodges & Resorts property balances adventure and nature, providing guests with a close encounter with nature's wonders. Nearby, the B.R.T Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected haven where sighting wildlife is a key attraction. This area is home to elephants, gaurs, tigers, and leopards, with a wide variety of flora that delights naturalists.

The jungle around K Gudi bursts with 250 species of birds, including the velvet-fronted nuthatch, gold-fronted chloropsis, blossom-headed parakeet, and the Malabar whistling thrush. Guests can join jeep safaris into the mysterious forest with expert guides, gaining insights into the animals usually seen only in wildlife documentaries. The camp offers two trips into the sanctuary daily: one at dawn when the forest awakens and one at dusk when nocturnal animals begin their activities.

For trekkers, exploring the gorgeous mountain range on foot reveals off-beaten trails filled with lesser-known flora and fauna. As twilight falls, the camp becomes a serene haven to relax. Guests can enjoy the warmth of a campfire (not available during summers or monsoon seasons) and the tranquility of nature. Movie lovers can watch wildlife films in the audio-visual room, adding to the immersive experience.

Mealtimes at K Gudi take you back to the days of the shikars, with a community-style restaurant offering a group buffet and opportunities to socialize with other wildlife enthusiasts. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city and celebrate the beauty of wild Karnataka with a memorable holiday at the K Gudi Wilderness Camp.

To know more about this stay, check here: K Gudi Wilderness Camp

4. River Tern Lodge, Lakkavali

Located on the edge of the Bhadra Reservoir in Chikmagalur district, River Tern Lodge is a haven for wildlife and bird enthusiasts, offering an eco-tourism experience amidst the beauty of untamed nature. The lodge is surrounded by the soothing sounds of the backwaters, creating a tranquil atmosphere as you explore your surroundings. Nestled in the Western Ghats, River Tern Lodge is named after a nearby island where hundreds of river terns flock during their breeding season. Their white feathers provide a striking contrast against the lush green and brown landscape. One of the highlights for guests is spotting these river terns as they move gracefully from tree to tree or sip from the river.

In the cool evenings, guests can embark on a jeep safari to the Bhadra Tiger Reserve, just 4 km away from the lodge. This carefully preserved forest is home to leopards, tigers, gaurs, elephants, crocodiles, deer, wild boars, monitor lizards, and more. Bring your binoculars to spot these magnificent creatures thriving in their natural habitat. For bird enthusiasts, the area boasts over 200 species of birds, including the Grey Junglefowl, White-rumped Shama, Racket-tailed Drongo, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Brown Fish Owl, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Osprey, White-bellied Sea Eagle, and, of course, the River Tern.

River Tern Lodge is also near the Sakrebyle Elephant Camp, perfect for those wanting to interact with the majestic Asian elephants. Beyond wildlife sightings, the lodge itself offers a relaxing retreat. Guests can kayak on the river, enjoying the surrounding greenery and birdlife, or take a refreshing swim with a guide. Watching the sunset on a boat is another serene experience. All water-based activities at the lodge are supervised by trained experts and adhere to strict safety guidelines.

After a day of exploring or water activities, guests can unwind at the Gol Ghar with a delicious meal. The buffet features a variety of tasty vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, freshly prepared to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Discover the wonders of the Western Ghats at River Tern Lodge, where nature's beauty and tranquility await.

To know more about this stay, check here: River Tern Lodge

5. JLR King’s Sanctuary, Nagarhole

Just an hour’s drive from Mysore and around four hours from Bangalore, the JLR Kings Sanctuary is located on the edges of Rajiv Gandhi National Park. This protected region is home to tigers, leopards, Asiatic elephants, gaur, and a variety of birds and mammals. If you’re seeking a blend of wildlife and luxury without traveling too far, this jungle lodge offers a perfect retreat, providing a luxurious stay on the edge of a pristine natural habitat.

JLR Kings Sanctuary spans 40 acres of lush mango orchards, lush lawns, and a variety of Indian and exotic fruit-bearing trees and plants. The lodge features air-conditioned suites and cottages, furnished with cozy handmade furniture from Thailand and Indonesia. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool swimming pool, utilize the conference hall for corporate bonding sessions, and participate in a range of adventure activities suitable for both adults and kids.

Whether you're planning a corporate retreat or a family vacation to enjoy quality time in nature, this jungle resort offers everything you need to create lasting memories. Experience the best of both worlds—wildlife and luxury—at JLR Kings Sanctuary.

To know more about this stay, check here: JLR Kings Sanctuary

6. Kali Adventure Camp, Dandeli

In Dandeli, known as the ‘Adventure Capital of India’, the Kali River reigns supreme. This majestic river snakes through a diverse landscape of gorges, valleys, forests, and grassy meadows. Named after this powerful force of nature, the Kali Adventure Camp in Dandeli offers a thrilling experience. Nestled next to the frothing waters, the sprawling bungalow of the camp provides an adrenaline rush just from the view.

Kali Adventure Camp focuses on connecting with nature and balancing adventure sports with ecotourism. For whitewater rafting enthusiasts, the camp is specially equipped, with expert guides ensuring safety and providing an exhilarating experience. The river guides are also knowledgeable about Dandeli's wildlife and the various adventures available during your stay. Besides whitewater rafting, guests can enjoy coracle rides, birdwatching, nature walks, jungle safaris, and sightseeing around the beautiful region.

Dandeli’s undisturbed topography supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Kali Tiger Reserve is home to spotted deer, gaurs, sloth bears, barking deer, hornbills, yellow-footed pigeons, peafowls, and the crested serpent eagle. The elusive black panther also roams the reserve, and spotting this sleek, black predator is a highlight for many wildlife enthusiasts. Jungle safaris bring you close to these magnificent mammals, offering the perfect opportunity for memorable photographs.

Embrace the wild side at Kali Adventure Camp in Dandeli, where adventure and nature coexist harmoniously. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, this camp provides an unforgettable experience.

To know more about this stay, check here: Kali Adventure Camp

7. Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort

The Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort, a popular JLR property, offers guests a unique opportunity to experience two sides of Hampi. Situated at the edge of the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, this rugged red terrain is the natural habitat of the regal sloth bears, which can often be seen lounging in the countryside. In addition to spotting these majestic creatures, guests can visit the watchtower perched atop a hillock in the resort to observe wild-naped hares, pangolins, porcupines, jackals, and leopards. A drive 8 km into the forest promises an exhilarating experience. The green canopy shelters numerous bird species, including peafowl, spurfowl, yellow-throated bulbuls, sand grouse, quails, sirkeer malkoha, and stone curlews.

Cool, misty mornings are ideal for walking through the heritage trails of Hampi. The monuments in Hampi are broadly divided into the Sacred Centre, the Royal Centre, the Urban Core, and the Suburban Centre. Across the glistening river lies the legendary Anegundi, also known as Kishkinda in the Ramayana. Kishkinda holds significant importance in Hindu mythology and retains a quaint, old-world charm with its ancient houses, aqueducts, and regions that bring the Ramayana to life.

After a day of exploring Hampi's rich history and vibrant wildlife, a delicious, hot meal at the Gol Ghar is the perfect way to unwind. The restaurant offers a wide range of cuisines, and from your seat, you can spot the ancient red city in the distance. Even after two days in this beautiful historical city, there is still much more to see, from its lively bazaars to kayaking on the river. Hampi is truly a gift that keeps on giving.

To know more about this stay, check here: Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort

8. Dubare Elephant Camp, Coorg

Dubare is renowned for its sprawling elephant camp located on the picturesque banks of the Kaveri River. Years ago, the elephants for the grand Mysore Dussehra were trained at the Dubare Elephant Camp, using the river as their primary watering hole. Since logging operations ceased, these elephants have retired from the Dussehra, and around 150 elephants are now under the care of the Karnataka Forest Department at Dubare. These majestic creatures reveal the gentleness behind nature's untamed beauty as they interact with visitors at the camp.

At the Dubare Elephant Camp in Coorg, guests can observe, learn, and participate in various activities involving elephants. In-house naturalists are available to explain the different aspects of elephant history, ecology, and biology. Visitors spend over three hours with these magnificent animals, with one of the highlights being the elephant grooming session. This bonding activity allows guests to witness the elephants enjoying a scrub bath in the river, complete with traditional rituals such as oil application to their forehead and tusks. Guests also learn how to prepare elephant food and watch how these intelligent creatures are fed. The in-house mahouts demonstrate how elephants obey commands and explain their historical role in logging operations. This hands-on experience offers a unique glimpse into pet care in the wild.

Elephants aren't the only wildlife in this region. The surrounding forests are home to gaurs, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, peacocks, partridges, and more. During the rainy months of July, August, and September, the forest comes to life, and the river swells with grayish-blue water. This season is perfect for monsoon river rafting down the fast-flowing Kaveri. After an adventurous day, visitors can dine at the in-house Gol Ghar, which serves a variety of delicious non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes. Guests can also request local delicacies to be included in the spread.

Discover the magic of Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can connect with nature and wildlife in an unforgettable way.

To know more about this stay, check here: Dubare Elephant Camp

9. Gopinatham Mystery Trails, Gopinatham

Have you ever wanted to witness the wildlife of two states simultaneously? Located near Gopinatham, a serene haven on the border between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the Gopinatham Mystery Trails Camp takes you into a hidden world of wildlife that thrives in this unique location. The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, a vast protected area spanning the Mandya, Chamarajanagar, and Ramanagara districts, is nourished by the smoothly flowing Cauvery River, which sustains the flora and fauna along its banks.

Within the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, you can spot an array of mammals, including tigers, elephants, wild boar, leopards, barking deer, black-napped hares, chevrotains, four-horned antelopes, smooth-coated otters, Malabar giant squirrels, and more. The river's presence also supports a variety of reptiles such as mugger crocodiles, Indian rock pythons, and Indian mud turtles. Additionally, the sanctuary is home to several endangered bird species that flock to its lush trees. Birdwatchers can look forward to spotting the white-rumped vulture, Indian vulture, Nilgiri wood-pigeon, greater spotted eagle, white-naped tit, and the red-headed vulture. This sanctuary is teeming with nature's finest, whether they are basking in the sun or wandering through forested paths. The Gopinatham Mystery Trails Camp, located right in the heart of the sanctuary, offers an intimate connection with nature.

The landscape around the camp transitions into a series of grassy hills and stretches of deciduous forests. During the monsoon, the earth becomes moist, releasing a sweet aroma, and the trees transform into glorious shades of green, providing a soothing and rejuvenating sight. Guests can explore the forest on foot, discovering hidden nooks and crannies, or visit the memorial of a celebrated forest officer who sacrificed his life on duty. Trekkers can also ascend to a vantage point for spectacular views of the sanctuary.

Just 13 km from the camp lies the "Niagara of India" – the famed Hogenakkal Falls. Visitors can witness the water cascading down in a glistening torrent and even hop into a coracle boat to glide down the river, creating lasting memories.

Discover the beauty and mystery of the Gopinatham Mystery Trails Camp, where you can experience the best of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu's wildlife and landscapes.

To know more about the stay, check here: Gopinatham Mystery Trails

10. Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp, Malavalli

The Cauvery River, a picturesque Indian river, flows through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, originating from Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri range of the Western Ghats. As it journeys through gorges, waterfalls, rapids, and dense forests, the river offers a breathtaking backdrop for nature enthusiasts. Located just two hours from Bangalore, the Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp provides an ideal blend of adventure and the pristine beauty of the wilderness, ensuring an experience that will draw you back time and again.

The camp offers a variety of adventure activities, including zip-lining, kayaking, and rope-walking. For those with a passion for nature, jungle treks are available, offering opportunities to spot elephants, deer, crocodiles, turtles, snakes, and around two hundred bird species. A significant attraction at the camp is the Mahseer, the largest tropical game fish known to man. While fishing for Mahseer is not allowed, simply observing these magnificent silvery fish swimming swiftly through the greenish-blue waters is a thrilling experience.

The best time to visit the camp is just after the monsoon season, from August to February, when the river is at its peak, and the surrounding greenery is vibrant and lush with new growth. Birdwatchers will find this post-monsoon season particularly rewarding, as brightly colored birds are more active, flitting in and out of the tree branches. River terns, fishing eagles, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and other water birds frequent the banks of the Cauvery, inviting guests to spend long hours observing their graceful movements or simply soaking in the enchanting environment.

Discover the thrill and beauty of the Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp, where adventure and nature combine to create an unforgettable experience by the majestic Cauvery River.

To know more about the stay, check here: Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp