Atulya Kanchi Camp

I was excited to see tigers in the wild, but had plenty of questions about food, transport, lodging, and finding a good guide before my trip to Bhandhavghad Tiger Reserve. Amulya Kanchi Resort took care of the details, including a carefully planned trip from Jabalpur. I was met there, and the vehicle was well maintained and up to a good standard. The property is set among Bhandhavghad's deciduous forest, with a peaceful feel and fresh air. My room looked out over the trees, was nicely furnished, and had a comfortable bed. The team checked my dietary preferences and served what I wanted. Mr. Neeraj also joined me on park trips and helped match the guide and vehicle to my photography needs. He shared what he knew about the reserve's flora and fauna. I appreciated the hospitality from Mr. Neeraj Ji, Arti Ji, Digvijay, and the rest of the team. From the welcome to housekeeping, everyone was friendly and attentive. It was a memorable travel experience, and Amulya Kanchi Bhandhavghad Resort felt like a hidden gem.

Meals made with locally grown organic vegetables and spices were a lovely part of our stay at Atulya Kanchi camp. The place is designed to feel like the natural habitat, so being there felt immersive. Mr. and Mrs. Pathania were warm hosts and made us feel at home throughout. We came away with an unforgettable trip, and I'd recommend the camp to anyone wanting nature, comfort, and genuine hospitality together.

The safaris were a real highlight. Neeraj came along on every ride as our Trakker, and with his experience and team we had wonderful drives, lots of birds and animals, and Tigers Tiger’s and Tigers. He has been involved in National Geographic and BBC NH films, has fascinating stories and expeditions to talk about, and a strong connection with Elephants through his Asian elephant films. We loved the local food Arti cooked, along with pan India dishes, pasta, and Hakka noodles. We enjoyed every meal included in the package, and tea and coffee were free. The villas are spacious inside and feel luxurious. Their design, openable windows, and jungle views and sounds kept them peaceful and cool for us, though air-conditioning was due to be available from Coming October; until then there was a Desert Cooler and fan. Renovations were still underway, but we were briefed in advance and nothing affected our stay. Atulya Kanchi Camp Bandhavgarh is family-run and eco-friendly. Neeraj and Arti looked after guests from booking onward and gave us all the details. The Toyota Innova crista airport pickup was clean, the driver was good, and the modest extra cost felt worthwhile. On arrival, the place really felt like a jungle. We spotted birds, a Blackface languor monkey, and Neel gai. Arti and her team welcomed us with garlands and a traditional Indian-style Tikka on the forehead, then served a sweet, tasty, organic Bel fruit drink. Neeraj explained the routine and activities before showing us to our private area and villa, and personally accompanies each guest. The villa was newly developed and renovated, and we heard it had been partly opened for some overseas guests during Covid time because they were booked and a favour was being done to cater specially. We had a wonderful time and have already booked for November 2023. I usually don't write such long reviews on other platforms, but wanted to share our experience. The people running the place worked hard and seemed genuine and professional, committed to nature and knowledgeable about local wildlife. They responded quickly and the service was very good. We were surprised by what seemed an unethical recent review intended to damage the resort's reputation. Our safari driver from previous safaris told us that the two sisters who wrote it had lifetime photography of all Tigers, had taken 10 rides and seen 15 Tigers, and were with two other male guests who had no issues and were very happy.

The forest walk to a lovely stream from the Shesh Shaiya murthi in Tala was memorable, especially with Neeraj ji's stories and little details. We also enjoyed the village visit to Gond homes and farms. Back at the camp, chitals often came by at meal times, a nice sight with poha and parathas. We spent 5 days at Atulya Kanchi Camp and found it peaceful, with cozy rooms and the amenities we needed. The food was delicious and home-cooked, and the hosts remembered little things about us, even favourite desserts. Neeraj, Arti, and Digvijay were helpful with safaris and shopping, good company by the fire, and kindly lent us woollens when we realized we'd foolishly left ours behind on our December trip. The jungle is breathtaking, full of flora and fauna. We saw a tiger, jackals, wild boars, storks, peacocks, ibis, sambhar deer, kakars, langurs, chitals, and plenty of Rhesus Macaque. Our hosts helped arrange a safari in one of the coveted core zones. It's a lovely escape from the daily grind, with nature and people who treat you like family.