Madhya Pradesh: India’s national park country
The best way to go jungle-chic a la Madhya Pradesh—India’s national park country—is to hire an insider do all your leg-work research. Condé Nast Traveller caught up with Suhail Gupta, CEO of & Beyond India (www.andbeyondindia.com) a luxury adventure tourism company… On the experiential roaster? Details, hidden secrets and must-dos:
BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK, MADHYA PRADESH
Where to stay:
Samode Safari Lodge
The lodge contains 12 luxury villas, a heated swimming pool and a spa.
(+91 141 263 2370; www.samode.com) Doubles from Rs 37,500
Mahua Kothi
The property boast rustic cottages spread over 40 acres and fantastic food.
(+91 762 726 5402; www.tajhotels.com) Doubles from Rs 22,500
What to see: Tigers, wolves and reptiles.
Traveller’s insider tip: Bandhavgarh National Park is without any doubt the best place in Madhya Pradesh to see tigers. Don’t miss out on the trek to the Bandhavgarh Fort, one of the oldest forts in India. An advance booking is recommended.
Getting there: Nearest airports are in Khajuraho (six hours away) and Jabalpur (four hours away). Jet Airways and Kingfisher fly direct to Jabalpur, while Indian and Jet Airways fly direct to Khajuraho from New Delhi.
PANNA NATIONAL PARK
Where to stay:
Pashan Ghar
The hotel has 12 stone cottages and a watchtower overlooking a forest watering hole.
(+91 226 601 1825; www.tajsafaris.com) Doubles from Rs 32,000
Sarai at Toria
Located on the banks of the River Ken, the property has six minimalistic cottages with private courtyards.
(+91 968 529 3130; www.saraiattoria.com) Doubles from Rs 12,000
What to see: Tigers, wolves, deer and sloth bears.
Traveller’s insider tip: Panna National Park boasts an amazing landscape; great for glimpsing smaller mammals including wolves. For an edgy experience, go boating on the Ken River to spot snaky crocodiles.
Getting there: Nearest airport is in Khajuraho (one hour away). Fly Indian and Jet Airways to Khajuraho from New Delhi. Pick-ups and drops can be arranged by the hotel.
KANHA NATIONAL PARK
Where to stay:
Tuli Tiger Corridor
The hotel has eight air-conditioned luxury tents, a bar and a spa.
(+91 764 927 7221; www.tulihotels.com) Doubles from 10,000
Banjar Tola
Located near a river, this 18 suite tented also offers a swimming pool and safari shop.
(+91 930 365 1100; www.tajhotels.com) Doubles from Rs 22,500
What to see: Tigers, leopards, hyenas, jackals, monkeys, reptiles and birds.
Traveller’s insider tip: The Kanha National Park is a great spot for spying on tigers, gaur (Indian bison) and leopards. Enter the park at the Mukki entrance, as this sees the least amount of footfall and ensures a smooth entry.
Getting there: Nearest airport is in Jabalpur (three and a half hours away). Jet Airways and Kingfisher fly direct to Jabalpur from New Delhi. Thereafter, you can hire a car or taxi from the airport. Fares begin from Rs 3,500.
SATPURA NATIONAL PARK
Where to stay:
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
The lodge has 12 luxury villas, a swimming pool and a spa.
(+91 755 266 1100; www.renipanilodge.com) Doubles from 15,000
Forsyth Lodge
This eco-friendly lodge has 12 cottages in the heart of the Satpura Tiger Reserve.
(+91 930 263 5334; www.forsythlodge.com) Doubles from 12,000
What to see: Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer and migratory birds.
Traveller’s insider tip: Satpura is a true wilderness experience as it’s the first park in India where you are allowed to walk into the core. Editor’s note: Only 12 vehicles are allowed in the park at one time so book your safari well in advance.
Getting there: Nearest airport is in Bhopal (three hours away). Indian and Jet Airways fly direct from Mumbai and New Delhi.
- Sunayana Kumari and Priyanka Shewakramani
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