Tag: satpura

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Central India

The Queen of Satpura, Pachmarhi Hill station

MP has been recognized widely as one of the most beautiful Indian states to live in. Pachmarhi hill station in MP is the one and only hill station in MP and a popular tourist retreat, known for the Pachmarhi Cantonment. The Pachmarhi hill station is affectionately known as Satpura ki Rani and the title is well justified once you set foot there.

The amazing sceneries and visuals that surround you from all directions are mesmerizing. Pachmarhi’s elevation and the forests of the Satpuras, accompanied with streams and waterfalls, are striking and rich in wildlife.  The extravagant charm this place holds in unmatchable and add to that some amazing lakes, ponds and the trees. It’s easy to fall in love with the place.

Other than the visuals, there are some beautiful waterfalls and it also serves as quite a treat for the history enthusiasts and the archaeologists as the place also have some caves with ancient paintings. It has been said about them that these paintings were painted on these caves by the very first humans that appeared on the face of the earth about 10,000 years ago from now.

The nearest airport is the Bhopal airport, the state capital. While Pipariya, 50 kilometers away is the nearest railway station, reaching the place is not very hard. The road lines are well connected with the airport and the railway station along with the bus routes.

So what is it about the place that makes it one of the most sought after attractions in the entire state and in the country, in general? Let’s find out.

Priyadarshini point- British people are credited with discovering the point and it is quite visible in all the churches and the trademark architecture schemes. They turned it into a beautiful resort.

Jamuna Prapat- A magnificent fall that provides some pure drinking water to the locals. The bathing services in the pools here are very popular among the tourists and they could be seen taking dips every time in a year.

Apsara Vihar- A very beautiful picnic spot for the children and the lovers, there is a beautiful pool at the place. One has to take a barefoot walk 2 kilometers into the forest in order to reach the point.

Pandav Caves- The caves, if the legends are to be believed, provided shelter to the Pandavas when they were in the exile. These are beautiful and are historically significant as well for the Indian Archaeological Survey excavations.

Other than these places for sightseeing, there are many places where you can move to satisfy your hunger pangs. The cuisine served here is mostly Gujarati, Maharashtrian, and Jain. There are many dhabas and restaurants in the place but the one you will probably like the most is Kolkata Food Joint in the main Panchgani market.

There are many more pools and falls in the area that is worth a mention such as Bee fall, Duchess Fall, and the little fall. The place brings you pure peace of mind and bliss, away from the hassles of the city life.

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Central India National Parks Rejuvenate

Tryst with Satpura Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Situated right in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Satpura National Park was set up in the year 1981. It is considered to be one of the most bio-diverse heritages of the country with a variety of animals living in an area spread across 1,427 km2. The name of the national park ‘Satpura’ has been derived from Sanskrit, which means seven-hills. It is an integral part of Pachmarhi   Biosphere. This is an ideal place for all wildlife lovers who wish to spend the moments of their life in the lap of the peaceful nature.

Flora

The Park is the highly dense forest in the heart of Madhya Pradesh. Sai and Teak species are commonly found. The forest can be divided into three important categories: Moist deciduous, dry decidous, and central Indian Hub Tropical hill

Fauna

Satpura National Park is the most populated wildlife forest in the country with more than 50 species of mammals, 254 species of birds, 30 species of reptiles, and 50 species of butterflies among others. Some of the animals that can be spotted in the national park are Spotted Dear, Indian Bison, Tigers, Leopards, Wild dog locally called Dholes, Wild boar, Sloth bear, Black buck, Porcupine, Sambhar, Smooth otter, Pangolin, Marsh crocodile, languars, four horned antelopes, etc.

The Indian Giant squirrel spotted here is a special feature of Satpura National Park as sights of this squirrel are rare in India now. A glimpse of leopards, gaurs, wild dog, sloth Bear is good in comparison to other national parks of Central India. Also, the park is an important sight for one of the best bird watching experiences.

Places to Visit

Satpura Tiger Reserve

Satpura Tiger Reserve is recognized as one of the most precious gems of the state Madhya Pradesh,  which encompasses Bori Wildlife Sanctuary, Satpura National Park and Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary. This tiger reserve is unique for a variety of experiences it offers to its beholders. Boat Safari, Elephant Safari, and Jeep Safari are some of the most popular fun adventures of the place.

Asirgarh Fort

Regarded as the key to Deccan, one of the best attractions in Satpura National Park is Asirgarh Fort that holds a significant history of Mughal Empire. The architecture of the fort is inspired Persian and Mughal Empires.

Nandigarh Pahar

Nandigarh Pahar is situated in Pachmarhi, which is one of the main entrances to Satpura National Park. With a variety of adventure activities, this is the best destination for you and your family member to spend some quality time together.

Things to Do

Elephant Safari

One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Satpura National Park is by taking an Elephant Safari. If you are here in Satpura National Park then you should not miss it at any cost.

Jeep Safari

Jeep Safari is another good option for those who want to explore the landscapes of Satpura National Park. Information given by your tourist guides will make your journey even more exciting.

Best Places to Eat

Satpura National Park is in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, which is often described as the hub of some of the most exotic cuisine in the world. Some of the best places to eat near Satpura National Park are:

Dine Inn, Pachmarhi

This is one of the finest places to eat near Satpura National Park. It is situated in Pachmarhi, which is one of the key entrances to Satpura National Park. Dine Inn serves Chinese and Indian cuisine at an affordable price.

Hotel Maharaja, Pachmarhi

Another best place to eat near Satpura National Park is Hotel Maharaja in Pachmarhi. It serves authentic Indian cuisine.

Shri Vrindavan Palace, Hoshangabad

This restaurant is situated in Hoshangabad. It serves authentic Indian vegetarian food at a very reasonable price. The ambiance is very relaxing.

Places to Stay

Woodland Hotel, Pachmarhi, Welcome Heritage Golf View and Satpura Retreat are some of the options to stay, while you are here. If you are looking for luxury then, Forsyth Lodge is a good property to experience.

How to Reach

The nearest airport to reach Satpura National Park is Bhopal airport, which is just 200 km away from here.

The nearest Railway station to reach Satpura National Park is Pipariya, Itarsi, Sohagpur, and Hoshangabad. Satpura National Park has three entrances. First one is from Pachmarhi, second from Madhai, and the third one from Tawa Resort  located in Tawa Dam.

Satpura National Park can also be reached by road from Bhopal (170kms) and Jabalpur (250kms) cities.

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Rejuvenate Staycation wildlife

Experience Wilderness at its best in these eco-resorts situated in the jungles of Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is one of the green states in India,that can offer you wilderness at its best. If you are tired of city hustle bustle and want to spend some time getting lost in the jungles, then these resorts from Madhya Pradesh are definitely should be on your list as they not only offer spectacular hospitality but also let you explore the wildlife in its natural habitat.
Pashangarh by Taj Safaris, Panna National Park

Taj Safaris wildlife lodges are in Panna, Kanha Bandhavgarh & Pench. Each of these are based on themes. Pashangarh, as the name suggests is made out of stone inside the jungles of Panna National Park.One can walk down for jungle safaris, experience the signature dinners or else can enjoy the wilderness of the national park. Place is luxurious in itself and hospitality from staff makes the stay all the more memorable. Trained naturalists can take you out on safari and let you know the fine intricacies of these jungles.
How to get in– 70 kms away from Khajuraho airport, drive is smooth through the jungles.

Forsyth Lodge, Satpura National Park

This is an outstanding property in the Satpura jungles. What make it all the more luxurious is the staff. Once in, you shall be mesmerized by the awesome staff that makes you feel at home. Either you can spend a day at leisure looking around for butterfly park or spending time with school kids from near by village, or you may go to watch sunrise/sunsets at Denva river. Not to miss, this is one of the regions where you can walk down inside the thick Satpura jungles and look around for tigers, bears. Naturalists will amaze you with their knowledge as they explain about the flora & fauna of the jungles. One can also opt to walk uphill to Pachmarhi. Each cottage is made out of cob and is eco-friendly. They have machans above every cottage, which makes the evenings more beautiful. Forsyth also serves signature breakfasts inside jungles while you busy spotting sloth bears.

How to get in– Nearest airport is Bhopal airport, from where you can drive down in 4- 5 hrs.

Singinawa lodge, Kanha National Park
Singinawa Lodge is a palatial retreat near the outer edge of Kanha Tiger Reserve. Nearest airport is Jabalpur airport.
There are total 12 sumptuous cottages, that offer stunning view of the forest. Large part of lodge’s energy is met through solar power and appropriate methods are been used for water harvesting. Guests at Singinawa can engross themselves in safari with trained professionals or cycle to a nearby village or the forest department nursery. There are a few rock formations nearby, one of which is used for regular campfires. And if you are looking for a relaxed vacation, you can choose to stay at lounge and enjoy the spa.

Pic Credit- Singhniwa Lodge

How to get in– You can drive from Jabalpur airport which is nearest to the lodge and takes around 4-5 hrs.

Sarai at Toria, Panna Tiger Reserve
The Serai at Toria is a luxurious yet charmingly earth-friendly property situated on the banks of the Ken River. Cottages and dining halls are overlooking river, which gives glimpses of wide flora and fauna of jungle. You can get lucky to find jackal, mongoose, jungle cat etc. There are no plastic mineral water bottles (only filtered water), and chemical-free toiletries are purchased in bulk and decanted into glass vials. Most of the staff is from the neighbouring areas. Guests can go for excursions into the Panna Tiger reserve or opt for boat rides and fishing on the pristine Ken river. One would not like to miss the walk on these wet-lands.

Pic Credit- www.scottdunn.com
How to get in– Place is located at 20 min drive from Khajuraho airport/railway station.

Mahua Kothi, Bandhavgarh National Park
Mahua Kothi is another luxurious property from Taj Safaris in Bandhavgarh and wildlife lovers’ delight. These are beautiful Kutiyas, with all amneties and lets you remind of rustic surroundings. This property has been inspired from beautiful Mahua trees and it is reflected across property. Guests can indulge themselves in Yoga, tiger sightings, elephant safaris, open jeep safaris, as bandhavgarh boasts to have best tiger sightings across India, cycling etc.

Umaria railway station is the 35 kms away from the park and is nearest mode to get in there.

This summer, pack your bags to these unusual properties and have luxury vacations.

Categories
Adventure Central India Ghoomophiro Blog Hotel Reviews National Parks Relax Staycation Travel Trends wildlife

Forsyth Lodge- Experiential Lodge to get lost in Satpura Reserve, Madhya Pradesh

Forsyth Lodge, is a 2 hrs drive from Bhopal airport. It is just 10 min away from Madhai gate of Satpura tiger reserve, Madhya Pradesh.

Accommodation: There are 12 luxury cottages overlooking 44acres of land. Each cottage is well spacious, well maintained with best of fixtures. Rooms are comforting; with few of them have machan terraces. As you enter the room, you are welcomed by a beautiful message that talks about wilderness. Interiors are very artistic and remind you “welcome to jungle”. Their walls are made from packed straw, mud and cow dung (as is the local building style) and painted with wild animals and flowers, giving them a whimsical touch. Cottages have private balconies, wherein you can sip your morning coffee, read your favorite book overlooking the great jungle. Air conditioning, Fan, Mosquito net, Extra beds Terrace Bathrobes, Toiletries , Hairdryer etc are available. The highlight of the cottages are their Eco-friendliness. Every small thing kept there is well thought. Everything here is recycled, even the fixtures in washroom are such that, water can be recycled. Basic amenities like swimming pool, spa is available.


Meals: Meals (included in the room rate) are served in various locations around the lodge. Under trees, by the pool, on sofa’d torchlit terraces or in dining rooms. There are Western and Indian offerings at each meal with detailed menu laid out.
Breakfast was equally delicious and plentiful: fruit and fresh-pressed pomegranate juice, followed by eggs cooked to order, grilled tomato, bacon, mushroom ragout and multigrain toast. Out on an early safari? Then it’s a packed breakfast in the middle of the tiger reserve for you.
Afternoon tea, with its fresh-baked cookies and cakes, is nice, but it’s dinner when Forsyth pulls out all the stops: cocktails and nibbles around a roaring bonfire, followed by dinner under the stars, either on a terrace in the main lodge or out in the bush with oil lamps hung from the trees (the bar was set up on a bullock cart!). You start with a soup and then move on to succulent meat curries and fragrant vegetarian dishes served with Indian bread.
#theForsythExperience – Yes, this is what one would call #theForsythExperience, when you are greeted by wonderful hosts Rishi and his team, who work reluctantly to ensure the best experience for each guest, by their constant efforts. It seems these guys are on a mission to bring you close to wildlife. There are multiple activities, which team involves you in. The itinerary planned is power packed, and the day starts with the wake-up call at 6 AM, to go for a walk inside the Satpura Tiger Reserve. These jungle walks are accompanied by great naturalists David Raju and Surya, who let you discover the vast array of species inside the jungle. The highlight of this walk is spotted dears and breakfast in the midst of the jungle. Other excursions being organized by lodge includes Canoeing, wherein you can watch birds involved in soaking in sunlight, as you paddle the canoe nearest to them and watch the sunrise in beautiful Deneva river. One can also enjoy Jeep safari and enjoy the drive with sloth bears, spotted deer, gaurs, bisons and other wild animals in their natural surroundings. I was lucky to get hold of the mother bear with her two cubs in action. The place is a paradise for the bird watcher. Evenings are made beautiful with bonfires and bullock cart dinner experience, where you can enjoy your dinner under the sky in amazingly romantic ambiance. This dinner is usually followed by star gazing, where you are taken to the stories of greeks and Romans. 2 days are little short to complete the experience as there is a lot more to explore with eminent naturalists. Btw, not to miss is the handsome dog there, who is just adorable. It is indeed a recommended place, if you are looking for a getaway away from the city with limited access to the network, and want to get lost in the wilderness. It is the place, from where you would surely not like to come back. It is indeed bewitching and at times gives you the feeling that whole property belongs to you.


P.S-> During Monsoons, Lodge is closed for renovations.
Thank you Forsyth Lodge for the amazing experience. You can reach out to them at Facebook,Instagram,twitter.

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