A wildlife getaway that is all about nature and local experiences, Kanha is perfect for family holidays.
Located about four hours from Jabalpur airport, the drive to my destination, Sterling Kanha, does not feel very tiring. The landscapes change from urban to rural, which means concrete buildings make way for nature. As you get closer, it is all about the forest, and it is impossible to miss the wonderful Sal trees whose towering heights add a magical aura to the destination.
The Setting
Located close to one of the safari gates, Khatia, Sterling Kanha is a property that is laid out over 8.5 acres and has 25 rooms. A short drive from the main entrance leads me to the reception area, where I am welcomed with a traditional drink. The reception has several seating spaces and is done up in hints of cream and beige with blue furnishings that add a nice pop of color. A tiled path runs all along the property that is dotted with tall trees and landscaping. I stayed in the Privilege Suite that is spacious and well laid out. A window seat and sofa are part of the smaller living space. A king-sized bed and a sofa that doubles as an extra bed, a private machaan—or upper deck—and a balcony ensure that the space is roomy for a family. Meals are at the in-house restaurant (with portions that are huge) and offer an eclectic mix of Indian, international, and continental fare.
The Safari
One of the biggest draws of the destination is its famed jungle safari. Kanha is a beautiful jungle, the largest in Madhya Pradesh, spread over 2,074.31 sq. km. This includes the core zone of 940 sq. km, a buffer zone of 1,134.31 sq. km, and the Phen Wildlife Sanctuary (satellite core) of 110.74 sq. km. I experienced a safari in the Khatia buffer zone and had a nice experience of the sounds and sights of the jungle. Even though I heard plenty of alarm calls for the tiger, I did not see one on this safari. However, the lush jungle ensured I saw animals like the spotted deer, sambar, Indian gaur, and peacocks, as well as the beautiful Indian pitta—also called ‘Navrang’ for its nine-colored body.
The Games
Back at the resort, there are a host of activities to enjoy. An indoor play area is home to a host of indoor games like foosball, carrom, chess, table tennis, and playing cards. If you prefer outdoor sports, try your hand at archery, darts, and even an ATV ride. A large swimming pool ensures you can beat the heat. There are also cycles available on site, which means you can take a spin on them in and around the property. Interestingly, there is also an e-cycle safari that is on offer here where you can sign up for a guided tour in the buffer area of the forest. Riding through the village, you reach the Sal Forest, stop at the river bridge, climb up a machaan to spot wildlife, and do a spot of birding as well. It is a nice way to see the jungle up close and is a great memory to come back with.
The Activities
One experience that you must sign up for is a guided walk on the Banjar River that runs alongside the property. In summer, the river dries up completely, but there are patches of water, which means you can spot a lot of bird life. I spotted egrets, cormorants, wire-tailed swallows, and red-wattled lapwings on my morning walk here. To experience a slice of village life, you can visit the Baiga village of Manegaon and see the bead craft work that the women here do. You can also buy the traditional necklaces they make here, a small way of showing support to the local community. After all, a visit to a wildlife destination is not just about the jungle. It is also about what else you can do, and Kanha has a lot to offer, and you can discover it one experience at a time.
Address: Chiraidongri – Kanhav Rd, near Kanha Tiger Reserve, Mocha, Lamna, Madhya Pradesh 481768. Phone: 079 6979 2025.
