Nestled in the Satpura Hills along the borders of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench National Park is one of India’s premier wildlife reserves, renowned for its lush forests, diverse fauna, and thrilling safaris. The park derives its name from the Pench River, which flows gracefully through its landscape, dividing the forest into two halves. With dense teak woodlands, open grasslands, and water bodies, Pench provides the perfect setting for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The national park is also famous as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book and is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, and bird species.
Accommodation near Pench ranges from luxurious resorts to eco-camps and rustic lodges, each offering a unique experience to immerse travellers in the wild. Among these, Rukhad Jungle Camp stands out for its charm, simplicity, and proximity to nature. Situated in the buffer zone of Pench, this eco-friendly camp provides an unforgettable jungle retreat, where guests can relax amidst the wilderness and engage in thrilling wildlife activities.
Staying Experience at Rukhad Jungle Camp
Rukhad Jungle Camp is a hidden gem tucked away in the buffer area of Pench, offering an authentic jungle stay experience. This eco-camp blends adventure with comfort, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to stay close to nature. Surrounded by teak forests and open grasslands, the camp allows visitors to connect with the wild while enjoying basic yet comfortable amenities.
Activities and Jungle Adventures
Rukhad Jungle Camp offers guided nature walks and cycling tours in the buffer zone, providing visitors with an intimate look into the forest’s flora and fauna. Spotting birds like Indian rollers, kingfishers, and peacocks are common during these walks. For a more thrilling experience, the camp organizes Pench jeep safaris to the core zones of the national park, where you might encounter tigers, leopards, and other fascinating wildlife.
Accommodation and Facilities
The camp offers cozy cottages and tents, designed to complement the natural surroundings while providing essential comforts. Each accommodation unit has clean beds, modern bathrooms, and electricity powered by eco-friendly measures.
• Types of Accommodations
Jal Mahal - Perched by a scenic lakeside, these cottages are aptly called “Jal Mahal,” which translates to “a palace on water.” The location’s unique appeal lies in how the lake also serves as a favored watering spot for wildlife, including magnificent big cats. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of these animals from the comfort of their private decks, making for a truly immersive experience. Featuring four spacious cottages, Jal Mahal offers the perfect fusion of luxury and unspoiled wilderness. The design ensures that guests enjoy modern comforts while staying deeply connected to the surrounding natural beauty.
Dudhiya - Offering uninterrupted vistas, Dudhiya is a serene escape crafted to rejuvenate the senses. Flanked by a nursery on one side and a scenic lake on the other, it provides the perfect setting to reconnect with nature. The retreat features two spacious cottages, each equipped with a private deck to ensure panoramic views and tranquility. Thoughtfully designed, these cottages offer ample space for relaxation, inviting guests to unwind and immerse themselves in the soothing embrace of nature.
Daldali - Surrounded by scenic landscapes, Dudhiya offers a peaceful getaway, ideal for recharging the mind and body. With a nursery bordering one side and a picturesque lake on the other, it provides an inviting space to connect with nature. The property includes two large cottages, each with a private deck that opens to breathtaking views. Every element has been carefully designed to promote relaxation and calm, allowing guests to enjoy a spacious and tranquil retreat amidst nature’s beauty.
Guests can unwind at the common dining area, where meals are prepared using fresh, local ingredients. The camp’s menu features hearty Indian cuisine and snacks, perfect after a day of exploration. Evenings are often spent around a campfire, with conversations, storytelling, and sometimes folk music performances adding to the experience.
