With a rich biodiversity and almost 80% of the world’s tiger population, you can find some of the best luxury lodges in India. The country is home to many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, as a result of which, there are many lodges available for a great staycation. And better than lodges are luxury lodges right in the midst of the wilderness. If you like living in style, here are the 7 best luxury lodges in India.
Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge, Kabini
Set on the Kubini backwaters of Karnataka, the Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge in Kabini is nothing if not luxurious. With architecture of the huts inspired by the Hadis or tribal villages, the rooms offer all the modern comforts. Expansive verandahs, temperature-controlled private pools, and marble bathtubs elevate the experience of staying at a wildlife lodge.
Enjoy your meal outdoors at sunset, or opt for a dining experience in a boat. Go for a dip in the infinity pool, take a nightcap at the well-stocked bar, or relax at the Ayurveda spa or the reading lounge.
The resort arranges jeep safaris, where you can spot elephants, leopards, and tigers. There are many species of birds here as well. A river safari on a boat may be a good way to spot elephants and crocodiles. You can also ride down the river in the traditional round boat called the coracle.
Diphlu River Lodge, Kaziranga
Situated on the fringe of Kaziranga National Park, Diphlu River Lodge in Assam became renowned after the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Catherine stayed here on their trip.
The luxury lodge is set in rice fields and overlooks the Brahmaputra river. The 12 villas are inspired by the architecture of the homes of the local Mishing tribe – made using natural materials like bamboo and wood, they are raised on stilts and have thatched roofs to be protected during the rainy season.
Half of the rooms overlook the river, while the rest face the rice fields.
The lodge has an in-house restaurant and an outdoor cafe area. Food is prepared using organic farm produce.
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros.
Enjoy some quality time at the bamboo sit-out by the pond or climb up the machan to spot birds or wild animals on the opposite bank.
Go for a river cruise on the Brahmaputra, where you could spot the endangered Gangetic dolphins. Diphlu River Lodge also curates experiences like elephant bathing and visits to the tea gardens of Assam.
Pench Tree Lodge by Pugdundee, Pench
Pench National Park is known as the Land of the Jungle Book, since the inspiration for Mowgli and the Jungle Book originated in the hills of Seoni, where Pench is located. Also located in these hills in the village of Sarahiri is the Pench Tree Lodge in Madhya Pradesh, the epitome of luxury.
12 treehouses and luxury cottages are spread across the property, with a large infinity pool. The treehouses are perched 18 feet above the ground, offering a view of the forest. All the rooms have French windows that open to a private sit-out deck, or machan.
Go for wildlife safaris to the Pench National Park, just a 20 minutes drive away from the lodge. You can spot wild boar, deer, civets, and jungle cats. Apart from game drives, you can try birdwatching, cycling, night trails, village visits, and more.
Enjoy lip-smacking dishes sourced from the organic garden or the nearby tribal villages and go to sleep with the sounds of nature in the background.
Bori Safari Lodge, Madhya Pradesh
Bori Safari Lodge in Madhya Pradesh is a luxurious hideout nestled on 7.5 acre farmland in Dhapada village, just a few kilometers away from the Bori Wildlife Sanctuary and 2.5 hours away from Satpura National Park.
The resort comprises 8 luxury cottages with all the comforts of a five-star hotel. The in-house multi-cuisine restaurant offers a range of dishes to satisfy your tastebuds.
With lush greenery all around, the resort includes a spa, an infinity pool, a library, and a well-stocked bar.
You can go for a wildlife safari in the Bori Wildlife Sanctuary to spot tigers, have a meal under the stars in the organic garden, or take a nature walk in the area. There are also a few other ecotourism activities, such as learning about the farming practices, crops, and livestock.
Wayanad Silverwoods, Kerala
Wayanad Silverwoods is a stunning luxury lodge in Wayanad in God’s own country, Kerala. Perched atop a hill, all the rooms of and villas of the resort offer mesmerizing views of the hills, mountain streams, waterfall, organic farm, and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Wayanad Silverwoods follow sustainable practices such as preventing the use of plastic, using water conservation techniques and energy efficient lights.
The Ayurveda spa centre is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. You can go trekking or opt for a calm boat ride. There is a clubhouse and play area with a swimming pool, badminton court, and basketball net. Along with a multi-cuisine restaurant in the hotel that serves delicious fares, there is also a coffee shop, bakery shop, and poolside dining.
Jim’s Jungle Retreat, Uttarakhand
Jim’s Jungle Retreat is situated on the southern edge of Jim Corbett National Park in Dhela region of Corbett in Uttarakhand. One of the best luxury lodges in India, the main attraction of this retreat is its location amidst the wilderness.
The accommodations are spread over 15 acres and there is even a seasonal river on the property which flows during monsoons. Designed with influences of colonial British architecture, the retreat has a library, recreational room, machaans, swimming pool, and even a jungle spa.
Gorge on delicious Kumaoni food, or go on a jeep safari to Jim Corbett National Park, located at the foothills of the Himalayas. You can spot tigers, wild elephants, monkeys, deer, and various birds.
There are many other activities such as cycling, heritage walks, or even an overnight stay in the forest!
The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, Rajasthan
A list of luxury lodges in India cannot be complete without The Oberoi Vanyavilas. Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places to spot tigers in India, and this luxurious resort provides the perfect respite.
Located in the middle of the wilderness, Vanyavilas offers utmost luxury to the tourists. The 25 luxury tents come equipped with en suite bathrooms, private decks, private gardens, teak and wood flooring, claw-footed bathtubs, and private plunge pools and balconies that showcase an incredible view of the national park.
The resort has a fine dining restaurant serving authentic Rajasthani cuisine as well as international cuisines. Unwind after a long day of safari at the spa, where you can get relaxing treatments.
These are some of the best luxury lodges with all the luxuries of a 5-star hotel and the most phenomenal views. Which luxury lodge would you like to visit? Let us know, and we will plan the perfect trip for you!
