Expert naturalists at the lodge, knowers
of the secrets of the 450 sq. km. park will guide you to its wildlife
wealth. The park boasts the highest density of tigers in the world, and
is best seen while on a jeep safari, or, whenever possible, on
elephant-back. Apart from the famous tiger, Bandhavgarh is home to many
wildlife species including the Barking Deer, Wild Dog, Bear, Cheetal,
Wolf and the Nilgai, which can be spotted in the open areas of the park.
Birds abound in the vegetation along the
streams and marshes. Look out for the Little Grebe, Erget, Lesser
Adjutant, Black Ibis, White-eyed Buzzard, Crested Serpent Eagle and the
Egyptian Vulture, among others. The reptilian fauna includes the Cobra,
Viper, Rat-snake, Python, Turtle and a variety of lizards, including the
Varanus.
The Samode Safari Lodge at the Bandhavgarh
National Park is an extravagant wilderness experience cradled in luxury
and unusual sophistication.
Located in the heart of tiger country,
adjacent to the 450 sq. km. Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in the central
Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, this divine getaway is designed around a
series of individual safari lodges. The inspiration is South Africa, the
decor and setting is Indian and the ambience magnificent and hospitable
- unmistakably Samode. Two main lodges with spacious lounges on the top
floor open onto wooden decks with
machans.
Accommodation
The Samode Safari Lodge is designed around
a series of individual chalets. Imagine an elegant and inspired living
space with a spacious lounge, a bedroom with a modern en-suite bath and
a dressing area, a unique open-air bath court, a private verandah with
striking views of nature in its wildest beauty.
Picture a villa with luxurious decor,
windows that embrace the outdoors - all created to include the amazing
experience of Bandhavgarh's natural splendor into the surreal
sophistication of the living spaces.
Food and Wine
Enjoy gourmet dining at the main
restaurant; barbecues around a campfire; a table set for you out in the
bushes; long lazy poolside meals; or romantic dining in the privacy of
your own chalet. Exciting cuisine and excellent wines await you -
there's a different menu everyday; lighter continental fare during the
day to keep you alert to this wonderful world around you, and then come
home to an Indian meal each evening.
The picnics are a special treat - be
prepared for thoughtful service under the sky and the trees - the very
air adding flavor to your food.
Location and Access
Bandhavgarh is located in the state of
Madhya Pradesh, right in the middle of India, at a height of about 800 m
above sea level. It derives its name from an ancient fort in the area.
The thick forest of Bandhavgarh National Park sits in a bowl, encircled
by cliffs and wooded Vindhayan mountains, and its plains have a number
of grass and reed covered wetlands.
You can fly into Khajuraho or Jabalpur,
which are the closest airports. The rest of the journey is by road - 5
and 4 hours respectively. The two closest railway stations are Umaria
(30kms) and Katni (80kms). There is also an airstrip at Umaria for
private charters.
