Kabini National Park

Kabini is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in Karnataka, probably because of its easy accessibility, lush green landscape, a large picturesque lake and fantastic sightings of large herds of elephants. Situated on the banks of River Kabini, this forest reserve is spread over 55 acres of forestland and water bodies.

Kabini National Park

Once a private hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Mysore, Kabini was also a popular hunting spot frequented by the British viceroys and Indian royalty. Now it is considered to be one of the best wildlife spotting areas in Karnataka, famous for its spectacular wildlife and bird life. It is home to the Asian elephant. Wildlife safaris are conducted twice a day in jeeps along pre-designated routes. During early morning safari you get to see animals and evening safari is the best time to spot leopards.

Boating is a very popular activity. There are motorboat rides twice a day on the lake to enable tourists to spot wildlife. You can spot aquatic birds, crocodiles basking on the banks, sambar at the edge of the water. Sometimes you also get a chance to see tuskers feeding on tender bamboo shoots.

They also have bamboo rafts, pedal boats, kayaks and rowboats on the lake for you to enjoy the evening sunset.

Kabini National Park Safari

Bird watching: If you are an ardent birdwatcher, Kabini is the place to be. There are over 350 species of birds identified here. The riverine habitat surrounded by forests, provides ample opportunities for bird watching.

You will be able to spot grey-headed fish eagles, ospreys and nestling sites of great cormorants on the dry stumps of trees. Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar lark, Malabar trogon, Indian pitta is the main species to look out for during guided nature walks.

Orange County - Kabini

Orange County Resorts is an experiential holiday company that owns luxury resorts at Kabini & Coorg, and an upcoming resort in the beautiful World Heritage Site of Hampi in Karnataka, India.

The Kabini region is sandwiched between the Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks, in the heart of the 5500 sq km Nilgiri Biosphere and is one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the world. The Nagarhole ecosystem supports the highest density of herbivores anywhere in Asia with a density of around 108 animals per sq km.

Orange County Resort

In addition to large herbivores such as the Chital, Sambar, Gaur, Asian Elephant and more, Nagarhole National Park also boasts a large number of predators including the Tiger, Leopard and Wild Dog. On the Vehicle Safari, Guests could get lucky and spot many of these species or indulge in some really captivating bird watching, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the region.

The Boat Safari takes guests upstream from the resort on the Kabini River to where the river itself separates the Nagarhole National Park from the Bandipur National Park. Depending on the time of year one can see large congregations of Asiatic elephants on the banks of the Kabini.

Orange County’s 'Spirit of the Land' philosophy finds its most intimate expression at Kabini. Steeped in local lore and culture, and inspired in design by the ‘Kadu Kuruba Hadis’ (local tribal villages), this picturesque resort of sweeping panoramic vistas is bordered on two sides by the Kabini river.

While the interiors of the intimate Pool and Jacuzzi huts are a celebration of the vernacular, with ethnic furniture, tribal furnishing and bottle gourd lamp shades, the exteriors capture the richness of the landscape and culture.

The Kabini region, surrounded by the Bandipur, Nagarahole and Wayanad wildlife sanctuaries, is one of the richest wildlife habitats in India. Among others, it is home to the Gaur, Sambar and Sloth Bear and the largest congregation of Asian Elephants. The high density of herbivores turns this region into one of the few places in Asia where three large predators i.e., the Tiger, Leopard and the Wild Dog, coexist in large numbers.

Orange County, Kabini is among the ‘25 World's Best Ecolodges’ for 2013 by the National Geographic Traveler.

Orange County, Kabini was awarded the TripAdvisor ‘Hall of Fame’ Certificate in 2015 for winning the Certificate of Excellence for five consecutive years (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015)

National Chambal Sanctuary

The National Chambal Sanctuary was set up in 1979 as a riverine sanctuary along an approximately 425 km length of the Chambal River and its ravines stretching over 2-6 km wide along the river.The Sanctuary lies in three states, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, stretching from Kota in Rajasthan to the confluence of Chambal River with the Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh. The National Chambal Sanctuary is home to some of the sub-continents most rare and endemic species including the Gharial, Gangetic River Dolphin, 8 species of turtles, Marsh Crocodiles, and over 300 species of Birds.

National Chambal Sanctuary

The Chambal is a perennial river originating in the Vindhya Range in Madhya Pradesh. Within the Sanctuary, the river flows through areas of deeply eroded alluvium, rapids over rock beds, sand banks and gravel bars along with steep banks and bends. Numerous temporary watercourses provide a variety of habitats. In Uttar Pradesh, the Sanctuary lies in Agra and Etawah districts, The Chambal Sanctuary was mainly created to provide protection to the endangered Gangetic Gharial and the Gangetic Dolphin. The Chambal River forms the core of the sanctuary, and the sandy beach and forested areas along the banks to a distance of one km form the buffer zone.

National Chambal Sanctuary is one of the most important bird areas in India, being the breeding site of the Indian Skimmer; this wetland has been listed as a high priority wetland. The area is of importance for both resident and migratory waterfowl, especially Common Teal, Northern Pintail, Bar-headed Goose, Brahminy Shelduck, Red-crested Pochard, and Indian Skimmer. Small numbers of Black-necked Stork, Common Crane, Sarus Crane, and Black-bellied Tern are also found along the river.

National Chambal Sanctuary Tours

This Sanctuary was established to protect one of the last remaining populations of critically endangered Gangetic Gharial. Good protection has also benefited another critically endangered species named Red Crowned roof Turtle, endangered Gangetic Dolphin, the Marsh Crocodile and the Smooth Coated Otter. Terrestrial mammals seen are Nilgai, Wild Boar, Porcupine, Black-naped Hare, Striped Hyena, Indian fox and Golden Jackal. The Indian Wolf is also reported from the surrounding areas.

Chambal Safari Lodge:

The Chambal Safari Lodge ‘Mela Kothi’ is a family run oasis of calm, tranquillity, and gracious hospitality, nestling in the midst of 35 sprawling acres of reclaimed woodland. The larger trees, some of which are over a century old, provide safe harbour, and the extensive grounds are home to over 198 species, such as palm civet cats, jungle cats, foxes, jungle hare, fruit bats, hedgehogs, nilgai and hyenas.

Chambal Safari Lodge

Established as a field camp in the late 1890s by the Zamindar of Jarar to conduct the annual cattle fair (Mela), the Mela Kothi and its stables have been meticulously restored and rechristened the Chambal Safari Lodge. Owned and managed by Ram Pratap and Anu, professionals who moved back to their ancestral farms in 1999 to work on their dream project: turning their inheritance into a charming eco-lodge, a haven for the eager explorer and weary traveller, alike.

The accommodation, in thirteen rooms/cottages scattered in the woodland, blend the charm of traditional features with the finest of contemporary conveniences and comforts. The ensuite A/C rooms/cottages are colourful, airy and spacious. The private sit-outs and verandahs, overlooking the woodland and fields, are ideal for lazing after the day's activities. The authentic home cooked meals, with fresh mainly organically grown ingredients, include local specialties that have been fine-tuned over generations.

The Lodge and its extensive grounds provide a relaxing environment and are a far cry from the hustle and chaos of modern cities. Wake-up to the birdsong of the barbets, have a meal under the trees with the koels and hornbills in attendance, spend the afternoon reading in a hammock with peacocks for company and end the day around a blazing bonfire under a star studded sky. All this, and more, whilst enjoying warm personalised hospitality and attention to detail.

With river, camel & jeep safaris, nature walks, and heritage trails, bicycle rides, visits to ancient temples, ruined forts, animal fairs, and a National Sanctuary, the Lodge offers visitors an opportunity to explore the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Chambal Valley.

The Lodge undertakes and supports conservation, research and activism in the Chambal Valley, and is committed to the sustainable use of natural resources.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

The summer capital of the erstwhile Chand kings (7th - 18th century) of Kumaon, Binsar is a picturesque, sleepy hamlet and one of the most scenic spots in the Kumaon Himalayas. Pitched at the impressive altitude of 2,420 m, 95 km from Nainital, it offers a majestic view of the snowy Himalayan peaks like the mesmerizing ranges Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Shivling and Panchchuli.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Encircled by a vast wildlife sanctuary, a home to many rare animals, birds and wild flowers Binsar is a truly fascinating spot. Binsar is also a trekker's paradise. One can go on long treks in the clean air, amidst the misty mountain trails, towering Oaks and Rhododendrons. Binsar is a formation of sleepy hamlets amidst orchards, silver streams and green meadows. The blanket of green hangs all around - rocks covered with unusual moss and ferns, flowers and shrubs - foliage sprouting out of every conceivable nook and corner of the hillside. The entire area is now a sanctuary.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Tourism

Time just stands still at Binsar. You will keep discovering new walking trails up the mountains and down the valleys, new lookout points for another spectacular sunset. This intimate little hill retreat makes you feel that nothing can ever come between you and nature.

Mary Budden Estate-Binsar:

Mary Budden Estate is located in a cozy corner of the Kumaon, in the magnificent middle Himalayan Mountains. Come to Mary Budden Estate to relax in a serene setting within the secluded Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, where we are proud of our environmental and cultural sustainability.

You will get to unwind and re-connect with nature at our family run luxury homestay, a fully restored heritage home dating back to the 19th century. Mary Budden Estate harvests rain water, is fully powered by solar energy and its gardens are abundant with organic produce.

Mary Budden Estate Lodge

The sanctuary serves as a home for leopards, ghorals, wild boar, kakars, monkeys, Indian red fox, jackals, pine martens, Himalayan black bears, and porcupines. In addition to this, it also houses more than 200 species of birds that are of both resident and migratory.

We also run a two room village home stay in Dalar village, one of five villages inside Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Typical village mud walls and the traditional craft of wall painting called aipan, grace the walls and though every point of comfort along with an en suite bathroom is part of this home, one is transported into an authentic village experience.

A day trek into the village, meeting the other residents and getting to know their way of life is an integral part of your stay. Kumaoni village cuisine and a chance to sit around a fire in the evening to the sound of a flute or a possible music recital by some villagers are some of the highlights of the Dalar Village Home stay.

Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is located in the foothills of Himalayas, endowed with diverse flora and fauna flourishing in the most fertile region of Nepal called Chitwan valley. The valley is bounded by Mahabharat range up-north and Churia-Shiwalik hills in south which forms the international boundary with India. Chitwan National Park, famously known as the land of Rhinos or heart of the jungle is a 932 sq.km of protected core area along the courses of Naraynai and Rapti River channels. The park was formed in 1973, subsequently designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 to protect the unique Terai habitats known to be a home to diverse flora and fauna. The 2016 census has declared a population of 635 rhinos, 120 Royal Bengal Tigers along with a rising number of critically endangered Ghariyal Crocodiles. The park is home to three protected reptiles of Nepal namely Ghariyal Crocodile, Golden Monitor Lizard and the Indian Rock Python.

Chitwan National Park

The park to its prestige has two successful years of no-poaching and a global recognition for bringing ecotourism to Nepal. Chitwan’s accessibility, diversity and liberty for the enthusiasts to walk inside the forest lure many to make it the most visited park of Nepal. The forest is characterized by the mix of Sal (deciduous), Riverine and Grassland habitats.

Chitwan National Park Safari

The prime wildlife attraction of the park is the Greater One-Horned Rhino, Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephants, Leopards and Sloth Bears. Along with it, 583 species of birds including winter and summer migrants from Indian Subcontinent, Russia and Africa also add to the charm of the forest. The park also has an endemic species of Nepal–the Spiny Babbler and other attractive residents such as the Great Hornbill, Lesser Adjutant, Black Stork, Red-headed Trogon, Kalij Pheasant and Bengal Florican.

Barahi Jungle Lodge:

Barahi Jungle Lodge insinuates the austerity of Chitwan National Park. Experiencing refined luxury in the panoramic savannahs punctuated by Rapti River as overlooked from Barahi’s vantage point is a parallel universe retreat. We take immense pride in strengthening the bond of nature and mankind through our itineraries. The ambient outlook and sort after interiors of the lodge give a stunning insight into the aboriginal Tharu culture of Nepal interlaced with wilderness of Chitwan.

Barahi Jungle Lodge

The lodge is nestled in a forested patch of 12 hectares and the construction is inspired by the local Tharu villages. It blends effortlessly with the surrounding environment and sets a high standard in eco operations.

The lodge has an in house experienced team of naturalists, 4 private elephants and a fleet of jeeps & boats. The lodge is strategically located in Meghauli, west Chitwan considered the best area for viewing wildlife.

Pench National Park

Pench National Park is a wild playground harboring country's maximum density of prey animals, chased by estimated 65 Tigers. In 1983, it was declared a National Park and in 1992, a tiger reserve. Pench Tiger Reserve is spread across 1,180sq km, including a buffer zone of 768sq km. Pench National Park is situated under the Seoni and Chhindwara administrative districts of Madhya Pradesh and shares southern boundary with Maharashtra and hence is accessible from Maharashtra as well.

Pench Tiger Reserve

There are three gates to the park, namely the Turia Gate, the Karmajhiri Gate and the Jamatra Gate. It has an appealing landscape of dry and moist deciduous forest and Teak is the major tree of the region along with a mix of Saja, Mahua and Indian Ghost trees. The vegetation is of undulating scrublands as well as bamboo patches around hilly areas. The park has 39 recorded species of mammals, 210 species of migrant and resident birds and estimated 30 species of reptiles. The park is known for good sightings of Tiger, Wild Dogs, Jackals and many other mammals & birds.

Pench National Park

Lodge:

Your luxurious abode in the jungle is perched on top of the Mahua trees and supported by stilts. Large French windows allow for an uninterrupted view of the deciduous forest and grassland and lets you observe the multitude of birds, butterflies and the wild animals at the lodge. Our guests have so far seen wild boars, civets, jungle cats, jackals and spotted deer as they sat sipping their morning tea or the evening sundowner on the private deck. Breaking away from the monotony of oft repeated safari lodgings, they have been designed with an eclectic mix of vintage and natural aesthetics.

Pench Tree House

The boutique lodge has six tree houses with the following features:

Made of local Sal wood and perched at 18 feet above the ground.

Large French windows that open to private sit out deck and bay window lounger that doubles up as a day bed.

Large four poster bed with fine cotton linen and soft mosquito netting.

Features specially curated wildlife art that's a contemporary take on traditional patchwork.

Air conditioning cool or warm, as per weather] and 24 hours power backup.

Spacious well designed bathroom with 24 hours hot and cold water.

Complimentary organic toiletries and bathroom essentials.

A tea and coffee pantry offering a choice of select brews.