Reni Pani Jungle Lodge Satpura

Jungle lodges spring up everywhere and is difficult to differentiate between them. Reni Pani has excellent pedigree, being sister to the wonderful Jehan Numa Palace Hotel in Bhopal, itself a great stopping off point en route to the jungle of Satpura National Park. Reni Pani has great cabins in woodland but this time we stayed in one of their luxury tents overlooking a waterhole. We were too busy enjoying its beautifully appointed facilities to bother looking out at any passing wildlife. Forays into the jungle are organised by Reni Pani, so all you have to do is wake up on time, enjoy the safari ride and savour some great cuisine on your return from the jungle. Situated close to the Tawa reservoir, you can take boat rides to discover birdlife and the occasional crocodile as well as take bush walks. We think there's little to compare with Reni Pani in Satpura - other than Bori Safari Lodge, which is also theirs!

First of all, my gratitude to Mr. Sourabh! Who patiently followed and replied in a very supportive and detailed way every single concern I raised for support :) Just arriving at Reni Pani I realised the place is unique due to its isolated location and consequently natural surroundings that make it attractive even if you only stay at the lodge, you can spot different bird species, playful palm squirrels and some macaques but not limited to. Rooms are so cozy!! I could not spend enough time in mine to really enjoy all the great details, personally, I felt I had my private space but without losing that connection with the nature, thanks to the windows placed in different points where even if you are washing your hands in the rest room you will see out there, so, if you like birding for instance you will not lose any single chance! Furthermore, this combination of windows and the areas where you can sit or lay down sets the perfect moment if you enjoy writing while travelling. I loved the rustic touch but well ornamented with local handcraft works, having your own grinded coffee and French press, as well as tea bag options if you prefer and delicious biscuits to complement a quick but tasty meal. On top of that, the terrace is perfect if you look for a moment of relaxation or talking to yourself. Safaris!! I was so lucky to start with a boat trip and spotting a couple of cubs resting in the river shore, it might be a coincidence, but our naturalist Naman guided us to such place knowing there was a possibility to find them. Next day, exploring the buffer and core zones with Franklin I had the chance to see and photograph diversity of birds and, our reward by end of the day was to find a couple of sloth bears foraging for food in the forest, one of them moving to the road and looking at us to immortalize such moment! If the above were not enough, I have to mention that the small library is also a place to visit due to the different photography and wildlife books they have, once again, I was so busy out there that I could not enjoy that space. Finally, the food!! Thanks to all the team that prepare the meals and are always attentive asking what would you like to try and if you enjoy the dishes, moreover, welcoming you after any trip with refreshing drinks or chai; special thanks to Sharna and Siddhartha supervising everything goes well and my appreciation for explaining to me the gulab jamun recipe. It was so lovely experience to start my first travel through India, dhanyavaad to every single person that forms Reni Pani Team!! I hope we will see each other again :)

This jungle lodge is simply amazing. We stayed in one of the cottages which was beautifully appointed tea/coffee in room A/C and an upstairs outside area to relax ( even put hot water bottles in the bed on chilly nights). All the staff were extremely helpful friendly and accommodating. The food was outstanding Sharna was an absolutely fabulous lodge hostess Shubum an amazing lodge captain always had a lovely smile. Our guide / naturalist was Mehul who was so knowledgeable, professional friendly a real asset to Satpura. We loved it here don’t hesitate if your thinking of booking just do it you won’t be disappointed !