Explore the Real Jungle Book with Booking.com
As Rudyard Kipling’s magical tale of the abandoned “man cub” hits theatres this month, audiences young and old are set to be captivated by India’s unique flora and fauna in Disney’s momentous adaptation of ‘The Jungle Book.’ With over 870,000 properties around the world, from luxury hotels to rustic lodges, Booking.com has a jungle adventure for everyone. Whether your passion is wildlife, nature or safaris in general – it’s now possible to search by your interest through Booking.com’s new Passion Search platform.
Inspired by Mowgli’s adventures, the experts at Booking.com have picked their top jungle getaways to Incredible India.
The Oberoi Vanyavilas Ranthambhore – Ranthambore, India
This luxurious tented resort, located on the edge of the Ranthambore tiger reserve, has daily game drives where visitors can observe the majestic, endangered Bengal tiger. Each tent has been designed to reflect the regal caravans that crossed the deserts carrying noblemen during the times of the Raj but with today’s modern comforts including Wi-Fi, LCD TVs and iPod docking stations. Children will be kept entertained throughout your trip thanks to the huge array of experiences available including garden explorations with the hotel’s Naturalist and horticulturalist. Boys can also learn safa making in traditional Rajasthani style with girls trying their hand at authentic mehndi (henna painting.)
Munjoh Ocean Resort – Havelock Island, India
For those looking to explore the beautiful islands and beaches of India then Munjoh Ocean Resort is the place to go. Guests can enjoy the white sand of the property’s private beach, the privacy of the beautiful villas and an array of activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, Havelock Island is the ideal destination for scuba diving with PADI certified instructors on hand to guide you through the beautiful reefs and dive sites. Across the various sites, you’ll have the chance to spot lagoon and manta rays, turtles, groupers, sharks and much more.
Jim’s Jungle Retreat – Ramnager, India
A great option for families on their first jungle safari experience, Jim’s Jungle Retreat offers family cottages and a variety of excursions and experiences to suit all ages. An eco-conscious wildlife lodge, the resort is located on the periphery of the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Established in 1936, the sanctuary protects over 50 mammals, including the Royal Bengal tiger, the Asiatic elephant and the shy sloth bear, along with nearly 600 hundred domestic and transitory birds, and remarkably rare reptiles. At the forest's edge, Jim's Jungle Retreat offers 18 sophisticated lodges and cottages in 15 acres of lush refuge, with forest and mountain vistas, countless bird-spotting opportunities, instinct-sharpening walks and safaris, and hours by the pool or on your private verandah. Throughout the year, the riverbed and the surrounding forests host herds of grazing deer, root-digging wild boar, noisy jackals and the occasional tiger or leopard. During their seasonal migration, elephant herds trumpet their arrival and are sighted often on jungle walks.
Samode Safari Lodge – Bandhavgarh, India
This award-winning safari lodge is the perfect place to stay for guaranteed tiger sightings as Bandhavgarh National Park boasts one of the highest densities of Bengal tiger in the world. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot panthers, wolves, hyenas, wild dogs, gaur, cheetah, sambhar, barking deer, sloth bears and more. The lush forests and rich biodiversity of Bandhavgarh will make you feel like you’ve been transported right into Mowgli’s home. The 12 tranquil and spacious villas of Samode Safari Lodge are traditionally, yet luxuriously appointed with wood-burning fireplaces and open-air decks offering magnificent views of the property and landscape. In addition to the jungle exploration, guests can enjoy a variety of activities and amenities including the beautiful spa, swimming pool, nature walks and a visit to the nearby Mardari village.
Tuli Tiger Corridor – Pench National Park, Kurha, India
More than 1,000 miles from bustling Mumbai is the dense tropical jungle of Pench National Park, the inspiration for Kipling’s setting for The Jungle Book. A haven for wildlife lovers, Pench National Park was recently named the 19th Project Tiger Reserve where tigers, leopards and jungle cats are commonly seen. The luxurious Tuli Tiger Corridor resort is designed around the tropical landscape within 22 acres of lush jungle. Guests can choose to stay in one of the 15 lavish cottages or eight safari tents. Tuli Tiger Corridor gives guests the feeling of being at-one with nature and the native wildlife while still enjoying the comforts of premium dining, king-size beds and even spa treatments. Track tigers from 4x4 jeeps or on the back of an elephant, before returning to the resort for dinner under the stars and local tribal dance entertainment.
