National parks across the country are open, allowing the opportunity to explore India's diverse wildlife. With high pollution levels in metropolitan cities, it is an ideal time to breathe fresh air. Travelling to these destinations and staying in eco-lodges will also help you rejuvenate and appreciate the ecological diversity of our country.
We have compiled a list of national parks to visit over the weekend and eco-retreats for a memorable outdoor experience.
Gir National Park is the only place outside of Africa where you can see the majestic Asiatic lions roam freely. Recently, the park reopened its doors to visitors. Nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers can check out Aramness Gir for the long weekend. It is a luxurious eco-village-style lodge located on the outskirts of Gir National Park. Highly skilled naturalists provide breathtaking wildlife sightings and in-depth knowledge about the jungle inhabitants. The lodge also offers curated culinary experiences and features 18 exquisite kothis and havelis with private pools and courtyards offering exclusive forest views.
The lodge is situated in Haripur, Gujarat, about a 2.5-hour drive from both Porbandar and Diu, a 4-hour drive from Rajkot, or a simple 1-hour drive from Keshod airport.
Address: 177/2, Haripur Village, Haripur - Bhalchhel Rd, Amblash, Chitrod, Gujarat 362150
Cost: The cost of Aramness starts at INR 1,02,000, which includes meals, experiences, and taxes.
Nestled in the picturesque Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is a stunning example of India's incredible biodiversity. Known for its thriving population of Royal Bengal tigers, the park offers a fascinating and thrilling wildlife experience for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.
Not only is Bandhavgarh a wildlife sanctuary, but it also holds great historical significance. The park is home to ancient caves containing inscriptions and carvings dating back over 2,000 years, giving visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.
Ensconced in the sanctuary is Samode Safari Lodge, offering a great experience of Bandhavgarh. It's on the edge of the buffer zone forest thickets, where guests can often spot wildlife from the lodge gates. The morning and evening safaris provide exciting encounters, while the specially curated bonnet breakfasts and picnic lunches add to the charm.
The lodge is located 4 hours away from Jabalpur and Khajuraho, both well-connected by air from major cities. Alternatively, one can take a train to Katni, a 2.5-hour drive, or Umaria, a 30-minute drive to the lodge.
Address: Tehsil, Village Mardari, Bandhavgarh National Park, Distt, Mardari, Madhya Pradesh 484661
Cost: The cost of the package starts at INR 42,500, which includes meals. However, any additional experiences will be charged separately.
Wayanad, a stunning destination with a perfect blend of natural beauty, is also renowned for its cultural heritage and exciting outdoor activities. The region boasts the magnificent Western Ghats mountain range, and there are numerous tea and spice plantations to explore if you're looking for a peaceful getaway.
For stay and lodgings in the region, there stands the resort Wayanad Wild, a CGH Earth property celebrating the wonders of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort is surrounded by tropical greenery and provides spacious rooms with private balconies and modern amenities. During the day, you can explore the wilderness and discover the hidden treasures of nature, such as ants building nests for the rufous woodpeckers or delicate butterflies engaging in mud-puddling rituals. At night, you can embark on an exciting nocturnal expedition and witness the landscape transform as nocturnal creatures emerge.
Wayanad Wild is situated in Lakkidi, Wayanad, which is about a three-hour drive from Calicut, a four-hour drive from Kannur, a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Mysore, and a seven-hour drive from Bangalore or Cochin.
Address: Lakkidi, Kunnathidavaka, Kerala 673576
Cost: Staying at Wayanad Wild, CGH Earth, costs approximately INR 12,458, which includes breakfast, lunch or dinner, and various experiences.
Jawai in Rajasthan is a popular wildlife destination known for its flourishing leopard population and mesmerising landscape of granite hills, rivers, and villages. To effectively enjoy these offerings, the WelcomHeritage Cheetahgarh Resort & Spa, located in Bera, is a great choice. It provides luxurious accommodations with personalised hospitality and immersive experiences such as leopard safaris, bird watching, rock climbing, trekking, cycling, and archery.
Guests can also explore the local culture through guided village tours and temple visits.
The resort is located in Jawai, Rajasthan, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Udaipur.
Address: Circle, Rotela Lake, Varawal, Bera, Rajasthan 306126
Cost: Staying at WelcomeHeritage Cheetahgarh Resort & Spa costs approximately INR 28,000, which includes breakfast, Hi-Tea, dinner, and a private safari.
Satpura Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The reserve boasts diverse flora and fauna and serene landscapes. The Reni Pani Jungle Lodge is an excellent way to explore the terrain as it offers non-motorised safaris on land and water and horse safaris featuring Marwari horses. Visitors in the lodge's cottages or luxury tents can enjoy an unparalleled view of natural watering holes. The lodge also organises night safaris, a rare experience in India.
The lodge is located near Panchmarhi, about a 3.5-hour drive from Bhopal.
Address: Sohagpur, Raini Pani, Madhya Pradesh 461771
Cost: The resort's stay starts from INR 30,000, which includes meals. Additional experiences are charged separately.
