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• jungle calling
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• March 11, 2016

Picking the right hotel

Often while deciding on a Jungle Safari, once having selected the destination the next big step is selecting a property/hotel/lodge to stay in. As a thumb rule, we generally pick properties closer to the park which reduces travel time before and after the drives which can make a pretty significant difference especially when its extremely hot or cold. Secondly we look for places that employ local people, places that we feel are giving back to the forest and its wildlife in their own way. People who’s lively hood depends on this, will go the extra mile to ensure the wellbeing of the forest and its habitants and in turn their own too.In most parks there are multiple entry points/gates and sometimes the distance between the gates is a lot. Try and choose a property depending on the zone for which the safaris are booked. Rely on a trusted source to guide you correctly because time is of essence once in the forest.

Often people ask us is this a 4* or a 5*?. To our minds there is no * rating for jungle lodges as such what really matters to us (Jungle Calling) is the quality of service and the hospitality given at 5am in the morning or 1am at night. Often we have seen the so called “smaller places” offer better services in terms of personalization.
Many properties have their own vegetable farms (Patlidun Safari Lodge@ Corbett) from which they procure vegetables or some have their own in-house bakeries for breads etc (Reni Panni @ Satpura National Park). On our recent trip to Kanha we learnt about some other innovative ways like the solar cooker being put into use by Chitvan Jungle Lodge.
Other than doing safaris there are a lot more activities that can be done while staying near the forest such as village trips, a visit to the local handicraft factories, cycling trips etc.. Make sure you do these.. It’s a great reality check for many of us who live in urban cities… a small chat with the women can give you insights in to their lives..

The Children in the villages are so excited and thrilled when you visit them… to take it a step forward its always nice to carry some goodies for the kids or some small items of utility such as pencils, erasers etc.. this small gesture on your part stays in the child’s heart for a very long time..
Stay tuned for more posts and updates. Go to go The Jungle’s Calling….