Adventure and Luxury: The Best of Nandini Jungle Resorts

Nandini Jungle Resorts is situated on the edges of the Nagarhole National Park, one of India’s most renowned tiger reserves. The resort opened it’s doors in 2004 with the aim of providing an immersive jungle stay while also promoting conservation and community development.

Over the years, Nandini has evolved into a sustainable eco-tourism model that retains the essence of the jungle in it’s raw and untouched form. The property houses two resorts – Nandini ABODE and Nandini Woods – with rustic-themed cottages, tree houses and machans that blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest.

Nandini Resorts is owned and managed by Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd – a pioneering ecotourism company in India. The resort has won several accolades over the years for it’s sustainable tourism practices and for providing an authentic jungle experience to it’s guests.

Stay Options at Nandini Jungle Resorts

Nandini offers a range of accommodation options to choose from depending on your requirements and budget.

Nandini ABODE

This is the flagship resort of Nandini tucked away in a quiet corner, surrounded by towering trees and expansive wilderness. ABODE offers several stay options:

• Standard Rooms: Simple yet comfortable rooms nestled amidst wilderness
• Deluxe Rooms: Spacious air-conditioned rooms with a private sit-out area
• Tree House: Rustic wooden tree houses perched at a height overlooking the jungle
• Machan: Open-to-sky accommodation on stilted platforms for an immersive experience

Nandini Woods

This is a relatively newer section with independent cottages and rooms offering modern amenities while retaining the old-world jungle charm:

• Superior Cottages: Airy cottages with a luxurious touch for added comfort
• Deluxe Cottages: Spacious double cottages with a private sit-out and garden area
• Deluxe Rooms: Well-appointed rooms with jungle-inspired interiors

Both Nandini ABODE and Woods offer Twin Sharing Family Rooms to accommodate families and groups. The rooms are spacious, comfortably furnished with basic amenities like hot water, backup power, room service, etc.

Dining at Nandini Jungle Resorts

The resort offers a multi-cuisine restaurant – Flames – which serves lip-smacking food, including local Kodava cuisine. The menu changes daily and features dishes using fresh ingredients and locally sourced produce.

Meals are served buffet-style in a common dining area that provides splendid views of the jungle. You can also opt for a private barbecue dinner or a romantic dinner on your cottage deck for an enhanced dining experience.

The restaurant staff can accommodate special dietary needs like gluten-free, vegan, etc. with prior intimation. You can also carry your own alcohol by paying applicable corkage charges.

Activities & Experiences at Nandini

Nandini Jungle Resorts offers a range of unique activities and experiences to keep you engaged throughout your stay.

Jungle Safaris

One of the highlights of staying at Nandini is enjoying safaris into the Nagarhole National Park to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. You can opt for jeep safaris or elephant safaris accompanied by experienced naturalists who will guide you through the jungle trails.

With some luck, you may be able to spot majestic tigers, leopards, herds of elephants and other wildlife species like gaurs, sambar deer, wild boars, etc. The park is also home to over 270 species of birds. Safaris are organized twice daily – in the mornings and afternoons.

Nature Walks

Go on guided nature trails through pristine forests, wetlands and grasslands surrounding Nandini Resorts. Led by expert naturalists, these walks allow you to spot exotic bird species, endangered wildlife, medicinal plants, colorful insects and butterflies in their natural habitats. An immersive way to explore the stunning biodiversity up-close while learning about indigenous flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides. Customizable walks conducted daily through diverse trails. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water. A calming experience reconnecting with nature.

Coracle Rides

Drift along the serene backwaters of Nandini in traditional round coracles for a unique jungle experience. Spot marsh crocodiles basking along the banks, herons perched on trees and other aquatic creatures in their natural environs. The skilled boatmen silently maneuver the circular vessels along palm-fringed backwaters as you soak in the tranquility. Enjoy stunning photographic moments amidst the wilderness during these hour-long rides. An eco-friendly, novel way to explore the resort’s rich biodiversity in a relaxed manner. Comfortable life jackets provided. Offered daily at sunrise, late afternoons.

Village Visit

Take a guided walk through the picturesque Hoskote tribal village adjoining Nandini Resorts for a peek into rural life. Interact with the warm Kodava people and witness their culture and traditional practices first-hand. Notice the unique architectural style of village homes decorated with indigenous art. Stop at quaint shops selling local handicrafts and artifacts. Gain insights into the history of the indigenous Kodava tribe from your knowledgeable guide. Immerse yourself in the simplicity of rural living and mingle with locals during this engaging cultural excursion. Offered daily in the evenings.

Stargazing

Gaze at clear night skies lit up by thousands of dazzling stars and celestial bodies from Nandini’s vantage points. Identify prominent constellations like Orion, Ursa Major and spot shooting stars with the help of experienced in-house astronomers. Learn about intriguing astronomical facts and stellar myths. Make the most of the non-polluted skies and ideal atmospheric conditions for stargazing. Lose yourself amidst the twinkling expanse of the star-studded cosmos. An enlightening and meditative experience away from city lights. Conducted after dark on clear nights near the resort’s open spaces.

Bonfire

Gather with fellow guests around a crackling bonfire under starry skies for a quintessential Nandini experience. Sway to the beats of vibrant music and watch enthraling performances by local Kalari martial artists and tribal dancers. Savour delicious barbecue snacks and dinner as you bask in the warmth of the bonfire. Bond with your loved ones and other guests over light-hearted conversations. Make fond memories and immerse in the festive ambience of community bonfires organized frequently by the resort. An ideal way to unwind after an action-packed day in the jungle.

Birdwatching

Spot over 200 exotic bird species in the lush forests and wetlands surrounding Nandini. Look out for rare sights like the spectacular Malabar hornbill, paradise flycatcher, racquet-tailed drongo and more. Rise early and carry binoculars for best sightings. Head out on foot or by coracle for photographic opportunities. Identify birdcalls and behaviors with the resort’s experienced naturalists guiding you. An ornithologist’s paradise, you can also maintain a birding journal and refer to field guides available onsite. Ideal location to immerse yourself in the vibrant avian diversity of the jungle.

Cycling

Pedal through scenic trails around Nandini on bicycles available for rent. Ride past undisturbed forests, Hoskote village and paddy fields for a unique perspective. Stop to interact with locals and photograph panoramic views. A leisurely way to immerse in the natural charm and rural vibe. Helmets and guided tours provided. Ideal early mornings and late afternoons. Enjoy fitness and fresh air amidst pristine wilderness.

Angling

Try your hand at angling in the resort’s serene backwaters teeming with fish like catfish, murrel and more. Equipment and bait provided, fish under staff supervision. Catch-and-release encouraged for sustainability. Patiently outwit aquatic species from the shores or coracle. Admire scenic views as you wait for a catch. Novices welcome. Early mornings best. Thrilling opportunity to leisurely connect with nature.

Plantation Tour

Stroll through spice gardens, coffee estates and fruit orchards within the resort premises. Learn about indigenous crops like pepper, cardamom, vanilla and their cultivation from experienced guides. Notice exotic produce like rambutan, passion fruit grown organically onsite. Inhale the refreshing aromas of herbs and spices. Gain insights into sustainable agricultural practices. Offered daily before lunch. A rejuvenating walk amidst fresh greens and fruits.

Other Facilities at Nandini Resorts

Nandini Resorts aims to provide a comfortable jungle experience without compromising on luxury and amenities. Some facilities provided include:

• Swimming Pool: Take a dip in the pristine outdoor pool surrounded by the wilderness.
• Gym: Get your daily dose of exercise at the well-equipped fitness center.
• Spa: Rejuvenate yourself with specialized Ayurvedic therapies and massages at the in-house Nisarga Spa.
• Kids Play Area: Let your little ones enjoy at the outdoor playground with play equipment.
• Library: Gain knowledge about the jungle from the collection of wildlife books and magazines.
• Conference Room: Host business meets or private gatherings in the meeting hall.
• Backup Power: 24/7 power backup ensures uninterrupted service.
• Travel Desk: Get assistance with safaris, sightseeing, transfers, etc. from the in-house travel desk.
• Laundry: Laundry services are available at an additional fee.
• Parking: Complimentary parking is provided within the resort premises.

How to Reach Nandini Jungle Resorts

Nandini Resorts is located around 220 kms (4.5 hours) from Bangalore International Airport and can be reached through different routes:

Via Mysore: Bangalore > Mysore > Hunsur > Nagarhole > Nandini Jungle Resorts

Via Kushalnagar: Bangalore > Mandya > Srirangapatna > Kushalnagar > Nagarhole > Nandini Jungle Resorts

The resort can arrange pick-up and drop from Bangalore or Mysore airports and railway stations at an additional cost. You can also drive down yourself via private or rental vehicles. The roads are motorable and well-connected to major towns and cities.

Best Time to Visit Nandini Jungle Resorts

Nandini Resorts remains open through the year but the ideal times for a comfortable jungle experience are:

• October to February – Cooler winter months with pleasant weather
• April to May – Summer months with tiger sightings at their peak
• June to September – Lush greenery post monsoons but higher insect activity

Avoid visiting during the monsoon months of July to August due to potential roadblocks and heavy rainfall.

How to Book Your Stay at Nandini Resorts

You can book your Nandini Jungle stay online through:

• Direct website – nandinijungle resorts.com
• Online travel agencies like MakeMyTrip, Thrillophilia, etc.
• Travel agents in nearby cities

You can check available stay and package options and book through the website or travel portals. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

On booking your stay, you will receive a reservation confirmation voucher with details. Reconfirm your booking 2 weeks prior to arrival.

The tariff is inclusive of accommodation, meals, jungle safaris, sightseeing, taxes, etc. Extra charges apply for activities like spa, alcoholic drinks, laundry, etc.

Payment can be made via credit/debit card, net banking or bank transfer. Cancellation and refund policies apply.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Nandini Jungle Resorts promise a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness experience that retains the authentic vibe of the jungle without compromising on luxury. With it’s eco-friendly values, sustainable practices and community engagement initiatives, Nandini is a model eco-tourism destination that offers the perfect blend of nature, adventure, luxury, conservation and culture.

As you wake up to the chirping of exotic birds from your tree house perch and embark on thrilling jeep rides spotting majestic tigers in the wild, you will create memories to last a lifetime. With it’s rustic-chic accommodations, diverse activities and warm hospitality, Nandini Resorts provides the ideal jungle retreat for families, couples, solo travelers and nature enthusiasts seeking to immerse in the raw splendor of the wild.