Evolve Back, Kabini

Our Pool Reserve room was outstanding. Loved the stargazing bed, the temperature-controlled pool, the food, and the massage, which is a must-do. The only disappointment was that the safari had been suspended. The staff made everything easy and special. Aishwarya coordinated the whole stay, Varan looked after us during meals, and Chef Chandrashekar remembered our request for Anjal Tawa Fry and surprised us with the best version of it. Vivekanand made Dinner by the water feel special with quiet, thoughtful service. Avinash & Vishal made the Tribal Village visit informative and fun. Thanks as well to Antony, Venkatesh & Shanmugam for their kind gestures. Easily our favourite resort, and we’re definitely coming back.

Food was the highlight of our whole trip. Kabini gave us a rare 10/10 culinary experience, from the succulent meats at Kuruba Grill to the fantastic high tea and breakfast we rated seven-star quality. Huge kudos to Chefs Tapan and Chandrasekhar, and our hosts Mansab and Prasad. The spa team, William, Megha, Ajay, Manju, Bhumika, was exceptional, and Sahana, Roopa, and the rest of the service crew, especially the room setup team, brought the gold standard of Evolve Hampi hospitality. We wondered on the way to Kabini how Evolve Back could match Hampi’s royal grandeur or Coorg’s serenity. From arrival, Evolve Back Kabini gave us an immediate connection to the land and its people. Our Pool Reserve hut felt like a Kuruba-crafted home from an earlier village era, with every modern luxury. Safaris were paused in the region, but we didn’t miss them. The Experience Center is a must, the tribal dance was awesome, and Pritam was one of the most knowledgeable naturalists we’ve met. Birding by boat and his jungle stories were unforgettable. The bullock cart ride is also a must-do. Even without safaris, Kabini is a lifetime experience, and we’ll try to visit again.

Even with safaris cancelled, we had a lovely, relaxing stay at Evolve back. The rooms, facilities, and food were brilliant. We tried a few activities, including the nature walk and bird-watching boat trip. We do think those should have been complimentary given the lack of safari. The guides were excellent and knowledgeable.

The staff were very courteous and the rooms are amazing. The buffet could be much better, though. With room rates like these, I expected more than basic bread, cereal, and salad, with more options and healthier choices, closer to what you get at ITC, Taj, or similar luxury resorts.