Indulge yourself in fully air conditioned and spacious villas with cascading windows, king sized beds and ample world class amenities such as satellite television, telephone and wireless internet access. Elegant décor and exquisite furnishings create a relaxing environment culminating in a distinct serenity. Unwind with a book on your own private porch. Pamper yourself in a palatial private bathroom with ample dressing and storage space, hot water shower, herbal accessories, fine linen and designer fixtures. Luxuriate in an elaborate external rain shower. The spacious courtyard is the focal point of the property, where wildlife enthusiasts and small groups can retreat in sun-drenched splendour or on a glorious moonlit night to discuss the day’s activities over a drink from the well stocked bar. If you need to cool off in the heat of the day the open air swimming pool provides an inviting refuge. The restaurant provides a wide choice of delicious Indian and continental cuisine made from the best available ingredients. By night, tables are set under the stars and lit by lanterns and candlelight, a perfect setting for an intimate dinner.

The lodge is spread in a sprawling estate of 12 acres in Rancha village, 10 minutes from the park gate, and is surrounded by Sal forested hills on all sides. It has 10 cottage rooms and 8 stilt cottage rooms with en-suite modern bathrooms. All rooms have a/c, a large veranda with great views, writing table and chair. The rooms are well appointed with wood furniture in honey hues and inviting crisp cotton linen. Eco friendly construction and eco sensitive waste disposal systems have been used, and the units are designed to blend with the surrounding landscape. A multi-cuisine dining hall overlooks the grounds with a fire place ready to keep you warm on those cold nights. An informal seating area allows you to enjoy evening drinks around a bonfire. A well stocked library is available for those wishing to learn more about the native wildlife and a watchtower lets you take in the surrounding countryside. For those needing to cool off there is also a swimming pool.

Nestled in the vicinity of the breathtaking Bandhavgarh National Park is the first of the Taj Safari Lodges. The name Mahua Kothi draws inspiration from one of India’s most beautiful trees, the Madhuca Indica, or butter tree. Its luscious off-white flowers take centre stage in many Indian festive rituals. The lodge sprawls over the 40 acre grounds, around the renowned former tented camp, Churhat Kothi. The accommodation and facilities of the lodge blend into the quaint and rustic surroundings. Each of the twelve charming cottage suites, called Kutiyas, is filled with local touches. Mahua Kothi promises an experience that is unconventional, focused on guests’ individual needs and emotions, knowledgeable, sophisticated and innovative.