Style

A high end safari lodge with both Indian and South African influence.

Setting

Adjacent to a 450km square tiger reserve and just a quick drive to the Kothi entrance to the National Park. The thick forest of Bandhavgarh National Park is located within India’s central state, Madhya Pradesh. Terrain here is varied, encircled by cliffs and mountains with grass and weed covered wetlands and the heavy jungle.

Accommodation & Facilities

The 12 elegant suites and villas are all individual looking, with air conditioning and heating, large bedrooms, a sitting area, a private terrace with stunning views and wide windows embracing the outdoors. All have both open and covered bathrooms, a natural stone sunken tub outside here you can bathe in privacy under the stars, separated by a wall of glass from the indoor bathroom. The lodgings all have all the mod cons you could want; such as plasma screen TV’s and DVD players, however they are kept hidden away for those who want a more authentic safari feel.

The vast reception and drawing room will welcome you with French doors on all four sides encompassing you with the sights and sounds of India. For those wanting to relax at the lodge during the day there is a striking infinity pool with a heated whirlpool surrounded by comfortable canopy sun beds. There is also a library, organic vegetable patch, gymnasium, telescope, art gallery, TV room and a camp fire for social evenings at the lodge.

Dining

The gourmet food here is fantastic, complimented by excellent wines and full of surprises, with different menus and venues daily – an outdoor barbecue, romantic private dinner in your chalet, lunch under a Mahua tree or a traditional Indian dinner on the dining terrace.

Activities

Game drives will allow you to spot tigers, but also other wildlife such as the barking deer, cheetal and wild dog. There is also fantastic birding, watch for the black ibis, egret and white-eyed buzzard. All wildlife excursions are done with a highly trained, dedicated and knowledgeable naturalist. You also have the opportunity to visit the local village and temples, as well as take advantage of the luxury spa and pools at the lodge.

Child Policy

Children allowed, however there are no facilities as the lodge is aimed at adults.

Responsible Travel

Samode have taken every care to make sure the smallest footprint possible is left on the environment, not only were no trees cut down during construction, but more were planted. They are committed to eco-tourism and have built the lodge around a luxurious and sustainable design. Solar energy is used as well as extensive rain harvesting. Samode also has its own charitable trust helping the village to improve sanitation, medical services and infrastructure.