Samode Safari Lodge

Samode Safari Lodge is bursting with old-world charm, nestled among the peace and quiet of the surrounding forest. When it is lit up at night with the twinkling of candles and hurricane lamps, there are few places more atmospheric in which to enjoy India’s rural beauty.

The lounge is at the heart of the lodge, a beautiful space with wooden ceiling beams, exposed brick walls and two large wood burning fireplaces. The writing desks and photographs of the wildlife and scenery of Bandhavgarh make it easy to imagine explorers of days gone by returning after safari to write about their sightings of the majestic tigers that inhabit the park.

The lounge leads out onto a wooden deck which looks out across the lodge and its 12 private villas. Each villa features a spacious lounge and a bedroom with a four poster bed, and is decorated with Indian artifacts, artwork and fabric. En-suite bathrooms come with a rolltop bath and a separate shower and there is also an outdoor bathing area with a sunken bath tub and shower, perfect for balmy summer evenings. A private verandah with daybeds and a table and chairs allows you to take in your beautiful surroundings and appreciate the peace and quiet.

Cool off in the outdoor pool and Jacuzzi and relax on one of the cabanas, then head to the gym or unwind with a treatment in the tranquil spa. For those who want to explore, there is the option to cycle or go for nature walks along the trails near the lodge, or visit a local village for an insight into the culture and day-to-day lives.

Dining at Samode is a real treat. Every day the menu and the location changes – one day you could be dining on the decking, surrounded by hurricane lamps, the next enjoying a barbecue around the campfire. There is also the option to dine in the privacy of your own villa.