Southern India
Kabini River Lodge
Nestled within the southern fringes of the Nagarhole National Park, the lodge was rated by Tatler as one of the world’s top five wildlife resorts. Kabini was founded by the legendary Col John Wakefield (known as Papa), an Indian-born Englishman resident at the resort who, until his death in 2011 at the age of 95, was hugely passionate about the region’s wildlife (and India in general) and did much to conserve it.
Accommodation is split between fourteen spacious double rooms, six twin-bed cottages, and five tented cottages. All the accommodation has modern amenities and attached private bathrooms.
The beautiful, colonial-style main building houses a good restaurant, bar and spacious conference room for presentations. The restaurant includes a fresh hot buffet of local tandoori, Indian, Chinese and continental cuisine.
Wildlife viewing in Nagarhole National Park can be undertaken by open-sided safari vehicle and also by boat which is a great way of getting closer to elephants, gaur, herds of deer and waterbirds along the sides of the river.
Facilities
14 colonial-style double rooms, six twin-bedded cottages, five tented cabins. Private bathrooms with hot water, restaurant, bar, lounge, conference room and laundry service.
Local Wildlife
A real gem, the 247 square-mile park of dry deciduous forest, grassy swamp and riverine habitat supports an astonishing array of wildlife, including 250 bird species, tiger, leopard, elephant, wild dog (dhole) and gaur. It is among the best of India’s wildlife reserves.
Optional Activities
Game drives and boat safaris in the National Park.
Jonathan Morris
Area Specialist
Have a whisky in the John Wakefield Bar at Kabini – apparently his favourite was Famous Grouse.
If you have any questions regarding our India tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
Undoubtedly the highlight of our trip. Very well run and organised safaris – six in total! Skilful and knowledgeable guides who found us good wildlife including elephant, tiger and leopard sightings. Great food too.
