5 Most Fascinating Wildlife Luxury Resorts in India

India hosts a fascinating horde of animals thriving in an astonishingly diverse mix of habitats ranging from lush mangrove swamps and dense rainforests to barren sand deserts. While just the thought of witnessing the ‘heroes of the wild’ in such majestic natural setting is a thrilling thought, it is important to choose a destination and stay that also promises safety, luxury, and comfort, in equal measures. We’ve lined up some of the best wildlife resorts in India for you to head to, nestled amidst some of the most well-known wildlife sanctuaries of the country.

The Oberoi Vanyavilas in Ranthambore

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Situated deep within the wilderness of Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, The Oberoi Vanyavilas is undoubtedly one of the best wildlife resorts in the country. Drawing its inspiration from the traditional Rajasthani Haveli architecture, the hotel’s tastefully crafted luxurious tented accommodation offers a perfect blend of class and comfort amidst the wild. And if your idea of a vacation at Ranthambore is limited to a thrilling Jungle Safari, the hotel will definitely exceed your expectations. You can sample a panoramic view of the Jungle from the hotel’s Observation Tower at sundown. Request for a personal or group Yoga session or relax at the Oberoi Spa, exquisitely located in the central sunlit courtyard. Don’t forget to tuck into delicious Rajasthani specialities which can be savoured while enjoying live performances by folk musicians.

Location: Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambhore, Rajasthan
Price per night: Rs. 47,000

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Patlidun Safari Lodge in Corbett

Rustic yet luxurious, classy yet unspoilt, Patlidun Safari Lodge at Jim Corbett National Park promises an enthralling dialogue with the nature and the wild. True to its Sanskrit meaning (Narrow Valley), Patlidun is a narrow slice of paradise flanked by the Shivaliks. Covered by towering Sal forests and ringed by the river Kosi, this resort houses twelve en-suite cottages inspired by local architecture, offering you a comfortable stay in the heart of wilderness. Located on the edge of the National Park, Patlidun is known for its proximity to wildlife and great Kumaoni hospitality. From the very recesses of the property, expert naturalists of the Resort can help you spot ethnic species of birds and flora, while tuskers are frequent visitors at night. Patlidun is as close as you can get to the Corbett.  

Location: Jim Corbett National Park, District Nainital, Mohan, Uttarakhand
Price per night: Rs. 14,400

Book Your Stay at Patlidun Safari Lodge!Book Your Stay at Patlidun Safari Lodge!

Taj Safaris Lodge in Pashan Garh, Panna

Taj Safaris Lodge at Pashan Garh, a cluster of roughhewn cottages, take the idea of luxury to a different level altogether. Spread out along a small stream on 190 acres of private jungle, this lodge brings you several paces closer to history, nature and the wild. While there are subtle references to the erotic stonework of the Khajuraho temples, the strong motif of a crocodile is a constant reminder of the inhabitants of the nearby Ken River. Huddled atop a small hill, these cottages offer a magnificent view of the forest and a large nearby waterhole, which has been host to numerous tiger sightings. Despite the rustic set up and chunky yet sleek interiors, the hospitality coupled with a rich dining experience offered by this lodge is unbeatable, thus making it one of the most exquisite wildlife resorts in the country.

Location: Panna National Park, Amanganj Road Panna, Panna, Madhya Pradesh
Price per night: Rs. 47,000

Book Your Stay at Taj Safari Lodge in Pashan Garh!Book Your Stay at Taj Safari Lodge in Pashan Garh!

Taj Safaris Lodge in Banjaar Tola, Kanha

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Located on the banks of the Banjaar River, this Taj Safaris Lodge directly overlooks the Kanha National Park. The Lodge houses two elegant camps of nine en-suite tents with wide glass doors that open onto private decks overlooking the river. Crafted and maintained to perfection, everything from its raw handcrafted timber furniture to canvas wardrobes lend it a glamourous tented feel. While your jungle safari holds numerous surprises, one also awaits you at the lodge as you are ushered in for a dinner at a surprise jungle setting. The key highlight of the cuisine served here are the Haandi dishes, which bring the earthy flavours of the cooking pots to life.

Location: Kanha National Park, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh
Price per night: Rs. 48,500

Book Your Stay at Taj Safari Lodge in Banjaar Tola!Book Your Stay at Taj Safari Lodge in Banjaar Tola!

Kabini River Lodge in Kabini

Situated on the banks of River Kabini, the Kabini River Lodge is located on the Sourthern border of the Nagarahole National Park, which has the largest congregation of Asiatic Elephants. A plush colonial estate amidst the wild, it was once the hunting lodge of the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore, thus is packed with rich heritage and magnificience. Apart from an adventuorous tryst with the nature, you can pamper your story-telling skills here by dining with other guests and sharing your experiences at the river-facing gazebo—the Gol Ghar. Multicusine dining, a comfortable stay, proximity to the National Park and a rich wildlife experience without digging a big hole in your pocket make Kabini River Lodge one of the most popular wildlife resorts of Southern India.

Location: Karapura, Nissana Belthur Post, HD Kote Thaluk, Karnataka
Price per night: Rs. 11,300

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